HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Minutes 2021-09-23 Town of Ithaca Planning Committee
Thursday,September 23rd, 2021
(4:00 PM via Zoom)
Committee members: Rich DePaolo, Chair; Bill Goodman, Pat Leary
Board/Staff members: Rod Howe (Supervisor), Sue Ritter, Marty Moseley, Mike Smith, Dan Tasman,
Abby Homer
Guests: Christa Nunez, Executive Director, Learning Farm
1. Persons to be heard: None.
2.Committee announcements and concerns: None reported.
3.Consider approval of August meeting minutes:
Rich moved; Pat seconded.Approved with one minor edit (#11, page 2-changing the brickmold standard
from 2.5 to 2")
4. Discuss zoning amendment request from Learning Farm/Khuba International (guest Christa Nunez).
Mr. Smith briefly summarized the proposed changes to be recommended for the Town of Ithaca
Agriculture Zone which are as follows:
The addition of Agritourism (with definition) under the Permitted accessory buildings
and use section.
The addition of a new section-Accessory buildings and uses authorized by Special
Permit only, listing Seasonal Farm Lodging Facilities (with definition).
The questions remaining that were discussed were how to determine the number of temporary
dwellings and/or occupancy in the Seasonal Farm Lodging Facilities.
Mr. Mosely was asked about building code related to the number of days a temporary structure can be
permitted (180 max) and the maximum occupancy per square foot of living space (ranged based on
standard or efficiency i.e.: 200 sq/ft/occupant for standard and up to 3 occupants for 320sq ft for
efficiency). He stated he would review the building codes in detail regarding maximum occupancy based
on size of unit and property.
Examples of tent/yurt sizes and occupancy were discussed. Ms. Nunez offered general details for her
seasonal farm lodging facility vision, such as family size and ages of participants, inclusion of sink and
self-composting toilet in each dwelling, and common laundry area.
It was suggested that using an aggerate occupancy total per acreage and allowing the farm to determine
the number of dwellings may be clearer.The total of 3 people per acre, with maximum of 50,was
agreed upon by those present.
Mr. Moseley briefly summarized an additional proposed change to the Town of Ithaca Agriculture Zone:
The addition of a section under Permitted principal use to allow existing barns over
50 years old to be the principal building on a lot not used for farming.
This language follows the same provision in the Low-Density Residential Zone. All present agreed to also
incorporate this change into the Agriculture Zone language. The Committee will review the final draft at
the next meeting prior to formally recommending to the Town Board for adoption.
4.South Hill charrette and proposed TND boundary map:
Ms. Ritter updated the Committee of discussions with the consultants for the 3-day charrette event
planned for late October for the TND (Traditional Neighborhood Development) proposed for the South
Hill area.
Maps showing the proposed TND area were prepared and explained by Mr.Tasman with comparison to
existing zoning and the land use character districts in the Comprehensive Plan. It was noted that the
proposed boundaries were generally concurrent with the Comprehensive plan with minor adjustments
based on current land use, visibility, proximity to the State Park and other possible constraints.
Expanding the TND boundary further west on King Road W., towards Stone Quarry Road, was discussed,
however, no formal changes were made to the proposed boundary.These maps, along with other
documents and information about the area, are being compiled for the consultants in preparation for
the upcoming meetings.
Mr. DePaolo requested notification of future consultant meetings and assurance that all stake holders
and property owners in the area would be notified of the public discussions as well.
5.Continue review of proposed draft Inlet Valley Zoning and Design Guidelines.
All in attendance were in approval of the changes (shown in redline)to the draft document circulated
and agreed that it be forwarded to the Attorney for the Town for legal review.
6.Staff Report&Updates:
Sue reported speaking informally to a Cannabis cultivating company looking at indoor operations in the
Inlet Valley area. While dispensary regulations are clear on the State legislation end and the town was
not inclined to prohibit them,the idea of cultivation has not been explored. More information will be
shared as it comes forth.
One of the Cornell properties on East Hill near Honess Lane for sale in the Town was reported to have a
purchase offer placed by Visum Development Company.
Next meeting: Thursday, October 21"
Topics: Formalize draft Agricultural Zone changes and the boundaries for the draft Inlet Valley Zoning&
Design Guidelines/Standards
The Planning Committee meeting concluded at 5:30 pm.