Montgomery plans pose a problem

Residents claim projects are in conflict with town’s comprehensive plan

By Connor Linskey
Posted 7/28/21

During the public comment session at Monday’s Town of Montgomery Planning Board meeting, residents expressed frustration that projects before the planning board are in conflict with the …

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Montgomery plans pose a problem

Residents claim projects are in conflict with town’s comprehensive plan

Posted

During the public comment session at Monday’s Town of Montgomery Planning Board meeting, residents expressed frustration that projects before the planning board are in conflict with the town’s newly adopted comprehensive plan.

“We all know that the town board approved the comprehensive plan and that has changed the intended land use plans and the goals for many areas in the town but the zoning code has not yet been updated...,” said Karina Tipton. “I don’t understand how we in the town expect you as lead agency on a number of projects to move forward on projects that are in violation with the town board approved comprehensive plan and land use goals for our town.”

She also encouraged the planning board to work with the town board to improve their position.

Sylvie Rainaldi noted that the proposed Mirabito Holdings, Inc. project on Beaver Dam Road is in conflict with the comprehensive plan that was adopted.

“How this planning board decides on this project or any project that goes first that is in conflict with the comprehensive plan will set a precedent to all other landowners,” she said. “It’s going to create an incentive for landowners to submit site plans before the zoning code changes. Why would we as a town adopt a comprehensive plan if the first thing it does is create a race to develop properties that are slated for zoning changes.”

Like Tipton, Rainaldi feels that the planning board needs to work with the town board on how to proceed with the Mirabito project as well as future projects.

The applicant is proposing a 30,000-gallon propane storage unit on a 2.3-acre parcel by Beaver Dam Road adjacent to I-84. As far as truck delivery goes, the project would bring in one truck weighing approximately 45-tons every week or two and several smaller trucks Monday through Friday weighing about 33,000 pounds each. The trucks pose a problem, as there is a 10-ton weight limit on the road.

Mirabito proposes to keep the trees along the side of the road and aims to supplement it with landscaping. The project would be approximately ¼ of a mile away from the nearest house. In addition, the site would be fenced with security lighting only.

Mirabito Energy Products is a family-owned and operated energy product provider since 1927. They provide energy products for families and businesses throughout upstate New York, western Massachusetts and Connecticut. The company offers a wide variety of products including heating oil, propane, natural gas, coal, gasoline, diesel fuels and kerosene. In addition to being an energy provider, the company owns 108 convenience stores throughout central New York.