HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-12-12 - Planning Board Meeting Minutes APPROVED:3/13/14
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
PLANNING BOARD
REGULAR MEETING
VILLAGE HALL, 938 KING STREET
Thursday December 12, 2013 - 7:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
MINUTES
Review of minutes from the following Planning Board meetings:
September 13, 2012; July 25, 2013; October 10, 2013
PUBLIC HEARING
1. Consideration of a Site Plan Application by Scott Oling to construct a new 2
car garage at 2 Hillandale Road, Rye Brook, NY, Parcel I.D. 135.28-1-41
Project Update
2. Consideration of a Site Plan Application by Malek Samad to demolish an existing single
family dwelling and construct a new single family dwelling at 20 Beechwood Boulevard,
Rye Brook,NY, Parcel ID 136.29-1-9
Considering Possible Resolution
3. Consideration of a Site Plan Application by Kevin Teo for the legalization of site work,
and proposed site work, including but not limited to reconstruction of a pool deck and
patio, widening of existing driveway, construction of retaining walls, construction of
paved pathways, placement of fill, and re-grading of the rear yard at 70 Winding Wood
Road South, Rye Brook, NY, Parcel ID 135.34-1-36
Considering Possible Resolution
CONTINUED BUSINESS
4. Consideration of a Site Plan Application and a Special Use Permit Application by Linda
Seltman to legalize a professional office at 561 Westchester Ave, Rye Brook, NY,
Parcel I.D. 135.82-1-11
• Application to be Adjourned
NEW BUSINESS
5. Local law Amending Chapters 209 and 250 of the Village Code regarding Shopping
Centers.
6. Review of an application by Kip Konigsberg on behalf of K&M Realty, Ltd for approval
of an Amended Site Plan to decrease the number of dwelling units from 18 to 10 dwelling
units for the property located on the south side of Bowman Ave, Rye Brook, NY, Parcel
I.D. 141.26-1-1.1
• Considering a Report and Recommendation to the Board of Trustees
PRESENT
BOARD Mr. Domenic Accurso
Mr. Rob Goodman
Mr. John Grzan
Mr. Bill Laufer
Mrs. Amy Schoen
Chairman Gary Zuckerman
EXCUSED Mr. Dan Tartaglia
STAFF Mrs. Jennifer Gray, Village Counsel
Mrs. Marilyn Timpone-Mohamed, Village Planning Consultant
Mr. Mike Nowak, Jr., Village Engineer/Superintendent of Public Works
Ms. Shari Melillo, Planning Board Secretary
Chairman Zuckerman opened the meeting by asking everyone to join him in the Pledge
of Allegiance. He then introduced the Board members and the Village Staff to the
audience and explained the rules of procedure for the meeting. Additionally, Chairman
Zuckerman made note for the public that the complete set of the Planning Board Rules of
Procedure can be found on the Village's website along with streaming video of the
Planning Board meetings.
The Chairman called for the first agenda item, review of minutes from the September 13, 2012,
July 25, 2013, and October 10, 2013 meetings.
There being no questions or comments, on a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr.
Goodman, Mr. Nowak called the roll and the minutes were approved:
MR. ACCURSO YES
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
The Chairman called for the next item on theagenda.
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
1. Consideration of a Site Plan Application by Scott Oling to construct a new 2
car garage at 2 Hillandale Road, Rye Brook, NY, Parcel I.D. 135.28-1-41
Chairman Zuckerman recused himself from review of the application because he is a
neighbor of the applicant. Mr. Goodman was called to sit as acting Chairman for the review.
Mr. Goodman explained that the Public Hearing on the application would open next month,
but the applicant was present to give the Board an update on the progress of work to respond
to comments from the Board and the applicationto the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Mrs. Oling addressed the Board stating that the Zoning Board granted all the variances
requested. After receiving comments from Dolph Rotfeld's office, and Board Member Mr.
Accurso at the last meeting, the storm water management plan would be improved to capture
storm water run-off from more impervious surfaces on the lot. In addition, the design of the
rain garden was being refined after consultation with the County of Westchester Planning
Department.
Acting Chairman Goodman noted for the public that the Public Hearing on the matter would
be held on January 9,2014.
Acting Chairman Goodman stepped down and returned to his seat. Chairman Zuckerman
resumed his position and called for the next item in the order of business.
2. Consideration of a Site Plan Application by Malek Samad to demolish an existing
single family dwelling and construct a new single family dwelling at 20 Beechwood
Boulevard, Rye Brook, NY, Parcel ID 136.29-1-9
• Considering Possible Resolution
The Chairman called for a motion to open the public hearing.
On a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Goodman, Mr. Nowak called the
roll, and the Public Hearing was opened:
MR. ACCURSO YES
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
Mr. Keith Potensky, Esq., Mr. Vincent Massaro, P.E., and Mr. Brad Demott, R.A. were
present to represent the applicant. Mr. Potensky addressed the Board first, giving a brief
overview of the project and stating that, in his opinion, all the consultants' comments were
addressed. He noted that a letter was received by the Village from a neighbor of the
applicant who has concerns regarding potential flooding. Mr. Potensky stated that currently
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
the property has no storm water management, so the proposed storm water management
should improve any conditions related to run-off after it is installed.
Mrs. Timpone-Mohamed addressed the Board stating that the applicant altered the landscape
plan to provide the appropriate number of shade trees to replace those trees being removed.
The other outstanding issue was the grading around the patio area in the rear yard. The
grading was reviewed by the Village Engineer who made recommendations for revision of
the grading plan. The Applicant agreed to respond to the comments that Mr. Nowak
provided.
Mr. Nowak added that the overall storm water management plan for the site was reviewed by
Dolph Rotfeld's office. It is adequate for management of a 25-year storm.
Mr. Carey of 18 Beechwood Blvd. addressed the Board and thanked the Board for
addressing his letter. He stated that he and his wife have concerns about the proposed storm
water management and whether it will be effective. They have had flooding for many years
between their home and the Applicant's home and were concerned about the drainage issues.
Chairman Zuckerman responded that the system proposed should capture storm water as
planned, based on the review and comments of the Board's engineering consultant.
Mr. Nowak explained that the Village code requires capture of all storm water from a 25-year
storm, which will create a significant change in the amount of run-off leaving the property.
Currently, the lot has no storm water management system, so there should be a vast
improvement. In addition, Mr. Rotfeld, who reviewed the plan, was very aware of the
drainage issues.
Mr. Accurso asked about water removal from the basement and why the junction box to the
storm sewer was not shown on the plans. Mr. Massaro confirmed that the box would be
added to the plans.
The Chairman called for any additional comments from the public. There were no other
comments offered and the Chairman called for a motion to close the public hearing. On a
motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Goodman, Mr. Nowak called the roll, and
the Public Hearing was closed:
MR. ACCURSO YES
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
The Chairman asked if anyone on the Board had an objection to calling for a vote on the
matter rather than waiting until the next meeting to do so. There was no objection, so the
Chairman asked Mrs. Gray to read the resolution.
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF A SITE PLAN TO
CONSTRUCT A NEW TWO-STORY RESIDENCE LOCATED AT
20 BEECHWOOD BOULEVARD
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK PLANNING BOARD
WHEREAS, Malek Samad, sole shareholder of property owner Clard Corp.,
submitted an application for approval of a Site Plan to construct a new two-story residence
with attached garage, parking court, driveway, and rear-yard patio at 20 Beechwood
Boulevard in the R-25 zoning district, Section 135.29, Block 1, Lot 9 as shown on the Town
of Rye Tax Assessor's Map; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Board reviewed the following plans and application
materials:
1. Building Permit Checklist and Zoning Analysis
2. Site Plan Application and Checklist
3. Exterior Building Permit
4. Short Environmental Assessment Form
5. Tree Removal Permit Application
6. Construction Management Plan, prepared by DeMotte Architects, Ridgefield, C.T. dated
November 26, 2013
7. Tree Survey revised November 25, 2013
8. Topographic Survey prepared by Richard J. Domato, Land Surveyor, Mount Vernon, N.Y.
dated Revised, October 30, 2013
9. Letter of Authorization from Clard Corporation, West Harrison, N.Y. notarized November
26, 2013
10. Project Report prepared by Vincent A. Massaro, P.E., Yonkers, N.Y. dated Revised,
November 25, 2013
11. Project Report prepared by Vincent A. Massaro, P.E., Yonkers, N.Y. dated Revised,
October 30, 2013
12. Project Report prepared by Vincent A. Massaro, P.E., Yonkers, N.Y. dated September 26,
2013
13. Letter to the Planning Board from McCullough, Goldberger and Staudt, LLP, White Plains,
N.Y. no date, received December 4, 2013
14. Letter to the Planning Board from DeMotte Architects, Ridgefield, C.T. dated November
26, 2013
15. Letter to the Planning Board from DeMotte Architects, Ridgefield, C.T. dated October 31,
2013
16. Memorandum to the Rye Brook Village Engineer from Dolph Rotfeld Engineering, P.C.
dated October 29, 2013
17. Letter to Mr. Malek Samad from the Village of Rye Brook Engineering Department dated
October 16, 2013
18. Memorandum to the Planning Board from the Village of Rye Brook Building and Fire
Inspector dated November 12, 2013
19. Memorandum to the Planning Board from the Village of Rye Brook Building and Fire
Inspector dated October 2, 2013
20. Planting Plan, prepared by Studer Design Associates, Inc., Ridgefield, C.T. dated September
12, 2013, revised 12/10/13
21. Planting Plan, prepared by Studer Design Associates, Inc., Ridgefield, C.T. dated September
12, 2013
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
22. Architectural Plans prepared by DeMotte Architects, Ridgefield, C.T.:
Sheet Number Sheet Title Date
SP-1 Site Plan 9/17/13 rev. 11/25/13
A-1 Foundation/Basement Plan 9/17/13
A-2 First Floor Plan 9/17/13
A-3 Second Floor Plan 9/17/13
A-5 Front Elevation 9/17/13
A-6 Riglit Side Elevation 9/17/13
A-7 Rear Elevation 9/17/13
A-8 Left Side Elevation 9/17/13
A-9 Building Sections 11/25/13
A-10 Building Sections 11/25/13
A-11 Building Height/Setback Ratios 9/17/13
23. Engineer's Plans prepared by Vincent A. Massaro, P.E., Yonkers, N.Y.:
Sheet Number Sheet Title Date
1 of 9 Existing Conditions 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
2 of 9 Soil Testing for Stormwater Treatment
System 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
3 of 9 Demolition and Removals Plan 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
4 of 9 Steep Slope Analysis Plan 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
5 of 9 Proposed Site Improvements 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
6 of 9 Site Grading Plan 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
7 of 9 Sediment and Erosion Controls 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
8 of 9 Tree Removal Plan 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
9 of 9 Details 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2013 the Planning Board of the Village of Rye
Brook, pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), determined the
proposed action to be a Type II Action requiring no additional review under SEQRA; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to General Municipal Law §239-m and the Westchester
County Administrative Code the application was referred to the Westchester County
Department of Planning on November 21, 2013 and Westchester County provided a
response on November 22, 2013; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to General Municipal Law §239-nn and the Westchester
County Administrative Code the application was referred to the Village of Port Chester on
November 21, 2013; and
WHEREAS,the Village Planning Consultant, Village staff and the Planning Board
reviewed the information and submitted comments regarding the application; and
WHEREAS, on December 12, 2013, the Planning Board opened a public hearing on
the subject application, at which time all persons interested were given an opportunity to
speak on behalf of or in opposition to said application, and the Planning Board closed the
public hearing on December 12, 2013; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Board is familiar with the site and all aspects of the
project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook
Planning Board hereby approves the site plan referenced herein to construct a new two-story
residence with attached garage, parking court, driveway, and rear-yard patio at 20
Beechwood Boulevard, upon the following conditions:
1. Prior to the issuance of a Building Permit, the Applicant shall obtain approval of a
Tree Removal Permit from the Village Engineer/Superintendent of Public Works.
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
2. Prior to the issuance of a Building Permit, the Applicant shall obtain approval of a
Stormwater Management Plan from the Village Engineer.
3. Proposed grading at the rear of the proposed patio shown on plans entitled Site
Plan (Sheet SP-1)prepared by DeMotte Architects, Ridgefield, C.T., dated
9/17/13 rev. 11/25/13 and Site Grading Plan (Sheet 6 of 9)prepared by Vincent
A. Massaro, P.E., Yonkers, N.Y., dated 9/25/13 rev. 11/20/13, shall be revised
to the satisfaction of the Village Engineer and Village Planning Consultant.
4. The plans shall be revised to show that the footing drain force main shall connect
to the junction box after the dry well system.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that no permits shall be issued until the
Applicant has paid to the Village all applicable fees and professional review fees incurred in
connection with review of this Application.
The Board discussed the resolution and asked that provision of the junction box tie in to the
storm water management system as brought up by Mr. Accurso be included in the resolution as a
condition of approval, which was added to the resolution by Mrs. Gray.
There was no further discussion, so Chairman Zuckerman called for a vote. On a motion made
by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Laufer, Mr. Nowak to call the roll and the amended
resolution approving the site plan was adopted:
MR. ACCURSO YES
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
The Chairman called for the next item on the agenda.
3. Consideration of a Site Plan Application by Kevin Teo for the legalization of site
work and proposed site work, including but not limited to reconstruction of a pool
deck and patio, widening of existing driveway, construction of retaining walls,
construction of paved pathways, placement of fill and re-grading of the rear yard at
70 Winding Wood Road South, Rye Brook, NY, Parcel ID 135.34-1-36
• Considering Possible Resolution
The Chairman called for a motion to open a public hearing on the matter.
On a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Grzan, Mr. Nowak called the roll
and the Public Hearing was opened:
MR. ACCURSO YES
MR. GOODMAN YES
Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
Chairman Zuckerman explained that there were procedural issues regarding the application.
The public notice for the meeting included the application for Site Plan Approval but did not
include the application for a Steep Slopes Work Permit. Also, after the Building Inspector
completed his zoning analysis of the application, he advised the Board that the application
includes several non-compliances that require variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Chairman Zuckerman suggested to the applicant that the Board could adjourn the Public
Hearing until after the applicant requests a review and receives a decision from the Zoning
Board of Appeals, or the applicant could revise the plans to comply, which would remove the
need for variances.
Nathaniel Holt, engineer for the applicant, addressed the Board and explained he did not have
time to get the steep slopes information to Mr. Nowak. In his opinion, after review of the
Village Code, a steep slopes permit is not required because slopes on the property are below
a 15% grade.
Chairman Zuckerman responded that the applicant must provide all the necessary
information to the Village staff so that a determination regarding the need for a steep slopes
work permit can be made .
Mrs. Gray added the Village Engineer would make the determination. Mrs. Gray read the
definition of a steep slope in the Village Code, which is "any geographical area, whether on
a single lot or lots, or a portion of a lot, having a topographical gradient of 15% or greater
(ratio of vertical distance to horizontal distance) with a minimum area of 100 square feet."
Mr. Holt continued his overview of the project, which includes resolving drainage issues,
rebuilding the old deck and enlarging the driveway so that the homeowner would be able to
park an additional car. The impervious surface coverage on the property would be reduced
and a storm water management system would capture run off from the expanded parking area
and driveway.
Mr. Sherwood, the applicant's Landscape Architect advised that new trees would be planted
to replace the trees removed during construction and a landscape plan that includes screening
was developed. He asked if fewer trees could be planted if the trees that were planted were
larger, because the back yard has limited space.
Mrs. Gray explained that the Village Code does not allow for a substitution of fewer, larger
trees for the required number of replacement trees; however, in certain situations where tree
planting is not possible, the applicant may request to pay a fee in lieu of planting some or all
of the required replacement trees. Mrs. Gray stated she would add the option as a condition
of the approval resolution.
Mr. Nowak explained the existing condition of the site, which was disturbed by grading and
tree removals. He went on to say that Mr. Sherwood submitted a proposed soil stabilization
plan that would provide adequate protection against erosion and sedimentation during the
winter and early spring until construction can resume, and he stressed that the stabilizations
should be installed as soon as possible. The proposed storm water management plan could
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
handle the run-off from a 25-year storm. He finished by advising the applicant and the Board
that a complete standard report regarding the origin and composition of the proposed fill
material must be submitted to the Building Department for approval.
Mr. Accurso pointed out that the memo from the Building Inspector stated that his zoning
analysis was not complete, and that there are a number of variances required. Mr. Holt
responded that the zoning table on the drawings was revised that afternoon as requested by
Mr. Izzo.
Mr. Accurso was also concerned that the storm water management proposed would only
handle run off from the driveway.
Mr. Grzan believed the homeowner is trying to improve the property to make the yard livable
for his family. With regard to the zoning analysis and the need for variances, he would have
liked to have received the zoning memo sooner; however, he was comfortable voting on a
resolution to move the application forward with the necessary conditions.
The remainder of the Board was in agreement with Mr. Grzan.
On a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Goodman, Mr. Nowak called the
roll, and the Public Hearing was closed:
MR. ACCURSO NO
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
Mrs. Gray was asked to read the draft resolution:
RESOLUTION
CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF A SITE PLAN TO
PERFORM GRADING AND CONSTRUCT VARIOUS SITE IMPROVEMENTS
LOCATED AT 70 WINDING WOOD ROAD SOUTH
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK PLANNING BOARD
WHEREAS, Kevin Teo, property owner, submitted an application for approval of a
Site Plan and a Steep Slopes Work Permit to construct decks surrounding an existing
swimming pool and adjacent to the home, install storm water management facilities, add fill
to the rear yard, construct retaining and landscape walls, construct walkways, remove trees,
install a shed, and expand the existing driveway at 70 Winding Wood Road South in the R-
15 zoning district, Section 135.34, Block 1, Lot 36 as shown on the Town of Rye Tax
Assessor's Map; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Board reviewed the following plans and application
materials:
1. Exterior Building Application
2. Building Permit Checklist and Zoning Analysis
3. Site Plan Application and Checklist
4. Short Environmental Assessment Form dated 10/24/13
5. Tree Removal Permit Application
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December 12,2013
6. Topographic Survey, prepared by Thomas C. Merritts Land Surveyors, P.C., Pleasantville,
N.Y., dated Revised June 4, 2013
7. Letter to the Rye Brook Planning Board from Nathaniel J. Holt, P.E., dated November 18,
2013
8. Letter to the Rye Brook Department of Engineering and Public Works from Nathaniel J.
Holt, P.E., dated October 31, 2013
9. Letter to the Rye Brook Department of Engineering and Public Works from Nathaniel J.
Holt, P.E., dated October 24, 2013
10. Landscape Plan, Sheet LP-1, prepared by Robert Sherwood, Landscape Architect, LLC,
Brookfield, C.T., dated 11/4/13, revised 11/21/13
11. Landscape Plan, Sheet LP-1, prepared by Robert Sherwood, Landscape Architect, LLC,
Brookfield, C.T., dated 10/31/13
12. Engineer's Plans, prepared by Nathaniel J. Holt, P.E., Pawling, N.Y.:
Sheet Number Sheet Title Dated
1 of 4 Existing Conditions Plan 5/25/13 rev. 11/18/13
2 of 4 Site Plan 5/25/13 rev. 11/18/13
3 of 4 Storm water Pollution
Prevention Plan 5/25/13 rev. 11/18/13
4 of 4 Details 5/25/13 rev. 12/5/13
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2013 the Planning Board of the Village of Rye
Brook, pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), determined the
proposed action to be a Type II Action requiring no additional review under SEQRA; and
WHEREAS, the Village Planning Consultant, Village staff and the Planning Board
reviewed the information and submitted comments regarding the application; and
WHEREAS, on December 12, 2013, the Planning Board opened a public hearing on
the subject application, at which time all persons interested were given an opportunity to
speak on behalf of or in opposition to said application, and the Planning Board closed the
public hearing on December 12, 2013; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Board is familiar with the site and all aspects of the
project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Rye Brook
Planning Board hereby approves the site plan referenced herein to construct decks
Surrounding an existing swimming pool and adjacent to the home, install storm water
management facilities, add fill to the rear yard, construct retaining and landscape walls,
construct walkways, remove trees, install a shed, and expand the existing driveway at 70
Winding Wood Road South, upon the following conditions:
1. Prior to the issuance of a Building Permit, the Applicant shall obtain approval of a
Tree Removal Permit from the Village Engineer/Superintendent of Public Works.
2. Prior to the issuance of a Building Permit, the Applicant shall obtain a Steep
Slopes Permit if required by the Village Engineer.
3. All currently disturbed areas shall be stabilized as directed by the Village Engineer.
4. The Landscape Plan, Sheet LP-1,prepared by Robert Sherwood, Landscape
Architect, LLC, Brookfield, C.T., dated 11/4/13, revised 11/21/13, shall be
amended as follows:
a. Pursuant to Chapter 235 of the Village Code, four (4) additional non ornamental
trees of a non-invasive species shall be added in a location which
is satisfactory to the Village Engineer and Village Planning Consultant.
Alternatively, the Applicant shall pay to appropriate restoration fee pursuant
to Section 235-18.A(2) of the Village Code.
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
b. S.japonica shall be removed from the plan and replaced by a non-invasive
shrub species.
5. The Site Plan set shall be amended to include the standard Village of Rye Brook
Tree Protection notes set forth in the Village Code at 235 Attachment 1.5.
6. The importation of fill to the property shall comply with all applicable federal,
state and local laws, rules and regulations.
7. This resolution of approval shall not be construed to authorize the removal of any
trees, stone walls, retaining walls or other vegetation, landscaping or
improvements located outside the boundary line of property located at 70
Winding Wood Road South, except for the removal of the existing stone wall
within the Village right-of-way.
8. Construction of the proposed decks is subject to the Applicant obtaining all
required variances, as set forth in the Building Inspector's December 12, 2013
Zoning Analysis or any subsequently revised version thereof. In the event the
size of the proposed decks is reduced during the course of the Zoning Board of
Appeals' review of the required variances or through plan revisions reviewed by
the Building Department for the purposes of eliminating or reducing the required
variances, the Applicant shall not be required to return to the Planning Board for
additional review of the Site Plan.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that no permits shall be issued until the
Applicant has paid to the Village all applicable fees and professional review fees incurred in
connection with review of this Application.
The Chairman called for a motion to vote on the resolution.
On a motion made by Mr. Grzan and seconded by Mrs. Schoen, Mr. Nowak called the roll, and
the resolution was approved:
MR. ACCURSO NO
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
The Chairman called for the next item of business on theagenda.
4. Consideration of a Site Plan Application and a Special Use Permit Application
by Linda Seltman to Legalize a Professional Office at 561 Westchester Ave, Rye
Brook, NY, Parcel I.D. 135.82-1-11
• Application to be Adjourned
Chairman Zuckerman explained that the applicant requested an adjournment to January 9,
2014.
The Chairman called for the next item of business on theagenda.
5. Local Law amending the Village Code regarding Shopping Centers.
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December 12,2013
Mrs. Mohamed addressed the Board, and gave a summary of the proposed amendments. She
stated that the local law was referred to the Planning Board in November for a report and
recommendations.
Chairman Zuckerman added that the Board of Trustees has taken on the task of simplifying
and streamlining the application and review process in the Village Code. He stated that,
personally he commends the Board of Trustees for their action and welcomed Mayor
Rosenberg who attended the meeting.
Mrs. Mohamed explained that certain changes of use where no impacts are expected to occur
don't need Planning Board review of the site plan, and other applications that should be
subject to site plan review don't need review by both the Planning Board and the Board of
Trustees. As the shopping centers in the Village are both completely built out, parking
capacity is the chief concern when a new use may create more parking demand than the use it
replaces because there is a finite number of parking spaces. She further explained that there
are only two shopping centers in Rye Brook so it seemed more efficient to amend the CI-P
and the OB-S districts regarding shopping centers rather than create a new shopping center
district. The proposed amendments would make the Planning Board approval authority for
all changes of use in shopping centers, except those requiring a special permit, unusual hours
of operation or applications increasing the gross floor area of a building, with the exception
of small GFA changes of 40 square feet or less in area. Applications requiring a special
permit, unusual hours of operation or applications increasing the gross floor area of a
building would remain within the jurisdiction of the Board of Trustees. Applications for a
change of use would not require site plan review by the Planning Board when there are no
variances required, no changes in the footprint of any building, and the use would not create
more parking demand than the use it replaces. These applications would be reviewed by the
Building Department. In addition, the site plan check list would be amended to require
submittal of traffic and parking studies with applications that propose a change of use with an
increased parking demand. The Building Inspector would determine if site plan review is
required and request that a parking, and/or traffic study be provided before the application is
sent to the Planning Board or the Board of Trustees.
Mrs. Gray added that the amendments include an option for the approval authority to waive
the requirement for a public hearing on the site plan application which would allow certain
applications to be before the Planning Board for only one meeting. An example of such an
application is the recent Soul Cycle application: this application met the new proposed
criteria for the Planning Board to be the final approval authority.
Mr. Steve Silverberg, Esq. addressed the Board on behalf of Win Ridge Realty, the owner of
the Rye Ridge Shopping Center. He thanked the Village for moving forward to streamline
the review process and make it faster and easier for changes of use in the shopping center to
reviewed and approved. However, his client believes the proposed amendments should be
revised to change the way parking capacity is calculated for shopping centers.
Mayor Rosenberg addressed the Planning Board, stating that after meetings with the Rye
Ridge Shopping Center owner, it was decided, in consultation with Village staff and
consultants, to separate the issue of parking calculation and requirements from the other
amendments that can be made to improve and streamline reviews of changes of use in
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Rye Brook Planning Board
December 12,2013
shopping centers. Parking issues are being considered separately. He reminded the Board that
the local law before them included amendments recommended by the Village's consultants
and staff, which are changes that will accomplish the goals established by the Trustees and
may be made without additional study.
As the Planning Board decided it needed more time to consider the proposed amendments,
the review was adjourned to the January 9, 2014 meeting.
6. Review of an application by Kip Konigsberg on behalf of K&M Realty for approval
of an Amended Site Plan to decrease the number of dwelling units from 18 to 10
dwelling units on the property located on the south side of Bowman Ave, Rye Brook,
NY, Parcel I.D. 141.26-1-1.1
• Considering a Report and Recommendation to the Board of Trustees
Mr. Konigsberg addressed the Board stating that he proposes to build 10 dwellings instead of
the 18 dwelling units approved in January 2013. He explained that he hired Sotheby's to do a
marketing analysis, which indicated that fewer, larger dwellings would be more marketable.
He went on to explain that the gross floor area of the buildings would not change. The only
site plan change would be the removal of a planting bed and the addition of a sidewalk.
According to Mr. Konigsberg, it is the same plan originally approved in 2007, and amended
in January 2013, with the exception of the number of dwelling units, which is proposed to be
reduced to 10 units.
Mrs. Mohamed addressed the Board and corrected an error in the Frederick P. Clark
Associates memo that stated that 47 parking spaces, not 45 spaces were approved in 2013.
However, Mr. Konignsberg interjected that he would comply with a request from the Board
of Trustees to land bank two of the approved spaces, which would reduce the number of
parking spaces that would be constructed to 45 spaces. She recommended the submission of
additional information, plans and clarifications, and issues that required resolution that
included, the applicant's request for a waiver from the requirement to provide a topographic
survey, if the grading plan on the Peninsula or the Strip would change as a result of the site
plan amendments, if the ten homes would be larger than those approved in 2007, and if the
proposed fence installation would require alteration of the approved landscape plan. She also
recommended that the Applicant submit a full set of site plans for review.
Mr. Konigsberg responded with the clarifications that the grading and landscape plans would
not change, and the new site plans include the building sizes approved in January 2013. The
new site plans include 10 single—family, attached homes that would have slightly larger
gross floor areas than the 10 homes approved in 2007; however, the building footprints
would be the same as those approved in 2006.
Chairman Zuckerman explained to Mr. Konigsberg that a full set of plans for both the
Peninsula and the Strip should be submitted for the Trustees to review when the application
is referred back to the Board of Trustees with the Planning Board's recommendations, which
is also recommended by Mr. Nowak. Chairman Zuckerman added that the Applicant's
wetlands permit expires in February. To which Mr. Konigsberg responded that he was aware
that the wetlands permit would expire in February 2014.
Mrs. Gray advised the Applicant to show the current tax lot lines, not just the proposed lot
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December 12,2013
lines, on the site plans.
Mr. Accurso asked, as he did during the original review process and the amendment process
in January 2013, if any of the residential units would be affordable or work force housing.
Mr. Konigsberg responded that none of the homes would be affordable or workforce homes.
Mr. Konigsberg added that he explored this option and determined it is not feasible.
The Chairman polled the Board to determine if it was the Board's desire to proceed with the
draft Report and Recommendations. The Board indicated its consensus to act on the draft
Report and Recommendations and the referral to the Trustees. The Chairman asked Mrs.
Gray to read the draft Report and Recommendations.
PLANNING BOARD OF THE VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK
REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE
VILLAGE OF RYE BROOK BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON THE
APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF A SECOND AMENDED SITE PLAN FOR
K&M REALTY GROUP, LTD AT PROPERTY
LOCATED ON BOWMAN AVENUE
I. PROJECT OVERVIEW
On November 26, 2013, the Village of Rye Brook Board of Trustees ("BOT")
referred an application for approval of a Second Amended Site Plan to the Village of Rye
Brook Planning Board ("Planning Board") for consideration of a Report and
Recommendation. The Board of Trustees is the approval authority for this application
pursuant to Section 209-1(A)(1) of the Village Code.
The application was made by property owner, K&M Realty Group, Ltd.
("Applicant") for an amendment to a previous approved site plan for eighteen (18)
residential condominium units, to now authorize construction of ten (10) residential
condominium units on property located on the south side of Bowman Avenue west of
South Ridge Street, Section 141.26, Block 1, Lot 1.1, in the Cl zoning district and the
Bowman Avenue Scenic Road Overlay District (the "Property"). The proposed site plan is
similar to that which was approved by the Board of Trustees in 2007.
1. BACKGROUND
By way of background, the 4.039-acre property located on the south side of Bowman
Avenue west of Ridge Street is comprised of two tax lots situated at the confluence of the
Blind Brook and its East Branch. The Property was previously divided into two tax lots for
financing purposes, but remains one building lot. Tax Lot 1-1 of Block 26, Section 141
contains property commonly referred to as the "Peninsula." Tax Lot 1-1.1 of Block 26,
Section 141 contains property commonly referred to as the "Strip." The Property was used
for many years as a gravel mine and subsequently for deposition of excavated materials and
demolition debris, which contributed to the current topography of the site.
The Lower Blind Brook Pond covers a large portion of the Property. The Peninsula,
an upland portion of the site is mostly comprised of fill so it includes minimal areas of
wetlands; therefore, its developable land is almost entirely located within the 100-foot
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December 12,2013
regulated wetland buffers of the pond and the Blind Brook watercourses. A large portion of
the Property is within the 100-year flood plain of the Blind Brook. Although the Peninsula
does not flood because of its elevation, the Strip is subject to flooding.
In the early 1990's the property was the subject of a zone change from residential
zoning to the C1 Neighborhood Retail Zoning District. Initially, the Applicant advanced a
commercial development proposal. At the direction of the BOT as approval authority and
Lead Agency for the environmental review under SEQRA, the proposed development plan
received a positive declaration and an environmental impact statement was prepared.
Following the BOT and Planning Board's adoption of an Environmental Findings Statement
pursuant to SEQRA, a site plan for development of 10 attached condominiums, single-
family town homes on the Peninsula and passive parkland on the Strip was approved by the
BOT, and wetlands and steep slopes permits were approved by the Planning Board, in 2007.
The wetlands and steep slopes permits expired in 2008.
In 2012-2013, the property was the subject of an Amended Site Plan Application for
to change the density to eighteen (18) residential units on the Peninsula. On January 22,
2013, the BOT passed a Resolution approving the Amended Site Plan Application. On
February 14, 2013, wetlands and steep slopes permits were approved by the Planning Board.
The Amended Site Plan approval is scheduled to expire on January 22, 2014 and wetlands
and steep slopes permits are scheduled to expire on February 14, 2014, unless extensions are
granted.
2. CURRENT APPLICATION
The applicant now proposes a Second Amended Site Plan to decrease the number of
residential condominium units on the Peninsula from eighteen (18) to ten (10). At the
request of the Board of Trustees, the Applicant has also proposed a chain link fence at the
rear of the "Strip" parcel for future use by the Village, possibly as a dog park, if and when
the Village determines to accept the Applicant's offer of dedication of the "Strip" parcel. It
is the Planning Board's understanding that the Village's potential use of the area as a dog
park is, at this point in time, conceptual in nature and will be fully reviewed and studied if
and when the Village takes title to the "Strip" or otherwise decides to pursue plans to install
a dog park at that location.
II. PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION
The Planning Board reviewed this application at its December 12, 2013 meeting. The
Planning Board discussed the differences between the pending application and the
application approved by the Board of Trustees in January 2013 to determine what impacts, if
any, the pending application would have beyond that which was approved in 2013. The
Planning Board also discussed the differences between the pending application and the 10-
unit residential plan approved in 2007.
Based on a review of the application and information provided by the Applicant and
Village Staff, the Village's Planning Consultant, F.P. Clark Associates, provided a
Memorandum to the Planning Board dated December 10, 2013 and the Village Engineer
provided a memorandum dated December 12, 2013. The Planning Board also reviewed the
Applicant's December 11, 2013 response to the FPC Memorandum.
The FPC Memorandum sets forth five (5) comments regarding items needed to
complete the application or otherwise aid the review of the application:
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December 12,2013
a) A current, updated topographic survey of Tax Lots 1 and
1.1;
b) The last approved grading plans for the proposed action
with any proposed revisions;
c) The last approved landscape plans for the proposed action
with any proposed revisions;
d) As a very limited number of plans were submitted, the
Applicant should clarify if the modifications to the
buildings, such as, but not limited to, the rear overhang of
the upper floors that were approved in January 2013 would
be returned to their 2007 configurations or if the building
bulk would remain as modified in January
e) The proposed site plans submitted, Sheet M-3 (Plan #3
Revised 2013) and Sheet M-3A are not based on the plans
approved in January and February 2013. The proposed
revisions, with the new revision dates indicated on each of
the plans, should be shown on the last approved Sheets M-
3, Layout Plan, dated 4/7/06 last revised 9/27/12 and M-
3A dated 5/30/07 last revised 3/07/12.
In response, the Applicant submitted a letter dated December 11, 2013 which, in
summary, responds as follows:
a) A waiver request has been submitted for the requirement
that a current, updated topographic survey be submitted
with the site plan application.
b) No changes to grading are proposed.
c) No changes to the Landscape Plan are proposed.
d) No changes to the building bulk are proposed.
e) A complete set of plans will be provided to the Village upon
approval of the application by the BOT.
NVith respect to the Applicant's request for waivers from certain site plan submission
requirements, it is noted that the Village Engineer has recommended that waivers be granted
due to the limited nature of changes proposed as compared to the plans approved by the
BOT in January 2013. The Applicant noted that certain items required for site plan
submission were previously submitted in connection with the 2013 Site Plan approval
granted by the BOT and remain unchanged for the current application.
It is the consensus of the Planning Board that prior to the Public Hearing on the
application the Applicant should be required to submit a full set of plans proposed to be
approved in connection with this application. All additional requested waivers from site plan
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December 12,2013
submission requirements identified in the Applicant's request for a waiver, including the
requirement for the submission of an updated topographic survey, should be approved due
to the limited nature of the proposed changes.
In addition, F.P. Clark Associates provided the following comments:
Parking. Although the number of residential units would be
reduced to 10 units, the proposed action continues to request
construction of two parking spaces that were approved to be
land-banked as part of the original 2007 site plan. The Planning
Board should consider if the two spaces should be built or if
they should be land-banked because the number of residential
units are proposed to be reduced to the same number approved
in 2007.
Site Plan. Sheet M-3 shows lot lines that do not correspond to
the lot lines shown on the Town of Rye Tax Assessor's Map for
the two lots that make up the property. The Applicant should
revise all proposed site plans to indicate the current, correct lot
lines of the two lots that comprise the property.
With respect to parking, it is the consensus of the Planning Board that the two (2)
parking spaces should be land banked.
With respect to the lot lines shown on Sheet M-3, upon discussion it is understood
that FPC's comment refers to the fact that the existing tax lot lines are not currently shown
on the proposed Site Plan. It is the consensus of the Planning Board that the plans must be
revised to show the current tax lot lines.
Lastly, the Planning Board recognizes that in the event Village Staff determines an
amendment of the Applicant's approved Wetland Permit or Steep Slopes Permit is required,
the Applicant will be required to submit the appropriate materials for such applications for
review by the Planning Board.
III. PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDATIONS
After discussion and consideration of the comments set forth in the memoranda
from F.P Clark and the Village Engineer, the Planning Board recommends approval of the
Second Amended Site Plan, upon the following conditions:
1. The Applicant shall submit a full set of plans to the BOT prior to the Public Hearing on
the application.
2. The site plan shall indicate that the two (2) parking spaces proposed to be "land banked"
under the 2007 approval shall be "land banked"for construction in the future if determined
by the Village Engineer to be necessary. Construction of such parking spaces if deemed
necessary by the Village Engineer, shall be the responsibility of the Homeowners
Association or Condominium Board and language to this effect will be included in the
Offering Plan.
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December 12,2013
3. The Applicant shall revise the plans to show the current tax lot lines as shown on the
Town of Ri e Tax Assessor's Map, as well as the proposed tax lot lines.
4. In the event the Village determines to use a portion of the "Strip" as a dog park, such
use shall undergo a full environmental review pursuant to the State Environmental
Quality Review Act.
Furthermore, the Planning Board recommends that all conditions of the BOT's
January 22, 2013 Resolution approving an Amended Site Plan Application by K&M Realty
Group, LTD for development of eighteen (18) residential units on Bowman Avenue, remain
in full force and effect, unless otherwise stated in the BOT's resolution for the current
development proposal.
IV. CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the Planning Board recommends the BOT approve the requested
waiver as set forth above (except to the extent that the Applicant should be required to
submit a full set of plans prior to the Public Hearing), and the Planning Board
recommends the BOT approve Second Amended Site Plan application, upon the
conditions set forth above.
On a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Laufer, Mr. Nowak called the roll
and the Report and Recommendations was adopted:
MR. ACCURSO NO
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
The Chairman asked Mrs. Gray to read the referral resolution.
RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON THE ON THE
SECOND AMENDED SITE PLAN APPLICATION
FOR K&M REALTY GROUP, LTD
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Board of the Village of Rye Brook
adopts the attached Report and Recommendation to the Village of Rye Brook
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December 12,2013
Board of Trustees on the Second Amended Site Plan application and requests
the Secretary to the Planning Board forward a copy of the Report to the Board
of Trustees and the Village Administrator.
On a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Laufer, Mr. Nowak called
the roll and the resolution referring the application and the Report and
Recommendations to the Trustees was approved:
MR. ACCURSO NO
MR. GOODMAN YES
MR. GRZAN YES
MR. LAUFER YES
MRS. SCHOEN YES
MR. TARTAGLIA ABSENT
CHAIRMAN ZUCKERMAN YES
On a motion made by Mrs. Schoen and seconded by Mr. Goodman, the meeting was
adjourned at 10:15 p.m. by a unanimous voice vote.
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December 12,2013