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SYRACUSE-ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING AGENCY
2007 ANNUAL REPORT
SYRACUSE PLANNING COMMISSION
Ruben P. Cowart, DDS, Chairperson
ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING BOARD
Helen Stevens, Chairperson
SYRACUSE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
Linda DeFichy, Chairperson
ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING FEDERATION
David Tessier, President
Karen B. Kitney, Director of Planning (retired December 2007)
PERSONNEL
DECEMBER 2007
ADMINISTRATION
DIRECTOR: Karen B. Kitney
FISCAL OFFICER/ADMINISTRATION:
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Tracey Waldron ADMINISTRATIVE AIDE: Cheryl Khatib
PLANNING SERVICES
PROGRAM MANAGER: Megan Costa
PLANNER II: Ilana Kanfer PLANNER I: Jeffery Harrop
PLANNER I: Lisa Welch
911 ADDRESS ADMINISTRATION
PROGRAM MANAGER: John Adams PLANNER I: Kay Dabrowski
PLANNER I: Duane Coughenour
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS)
PROGRAM MANAGER: Don Jordan GIS SPECIALIST II: Edward Hart
CITY ZONING ADMINISTRATION
ZONING ADMINISTRATOR: Charles Ladd
PLANNER II: Kenneth Balamut PLANNER I: Heather Lamendola
PLANNER I: Owen Kerney RESEARCH AIDE: Melissa Sanfilippo
CLERK II: Kathleen Pontius
2007 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
SOCPA BOARD
SYRACUSE PLANNING
COMMISSION
Ruben P. Cowart, Chairperson Kathleen Murphy, Vice Chairperson
Steven Kulick Robert Rhode (1 vacancy)
Michael Heagerty (resigned in 2007)
ONONDAGA COUNTY
PLANNING BOARD
Helen Stevens, Chairperson
Douglas Morris, Vice Chairperson Donald F. Colon Robert L. Jokl Mark Lynch
Daniel Cupoli (1 vacancy)
SYRACUSE ZONING
BOARD OF APPEALS
Linda DeFichy, Chairperson Stewart Koenig, Vice Chairperson
John Blasi Nicholas Petragnani
Carl Thomas Caroline Evans-Dean
Michael Stanton
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SYRACUSE-ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT PERSONNEL 2007 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
INTRODUCTION
SYRACUSE-ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING AGENCY PLANNING PHILOSOPHY & PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS MAJOR PROGRAMS & SERVICES SOCPA STAFF
2007 PROGRAMS
PLANNING SERVICES 911 ADDRESS ADMINISTRATION GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS) CITY OF SYRACUSE ZONING ADMINISTRATION
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2008
INTRODUCTION
SYRACUSE-ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING AGENCY
The Syracuse-Onondaga County Planning Agency (SOCPA) is composed of the Syracuse City Planning Commission and the Onondaga County Planning Board. The Board provides direction for the periodic update and implementation of the Onondaga County 2010 Development Guide - the county’s comprehensive plan - and meets periodically to address countywide planning issues and agency programs. The charters of the City of Syracuse and County of Onondaga charge the Syracuse-Onondaga County Planning Agency with the responsibility to:
a. Perform all those functions and duties delegated to it by the City Planning Commission and the County Planning Board.
b. Prepare and maintain a comprehensive development plan for the County including the
City of Syracuse. c. Coordinate all planning activities that affect the County and City.
d. Cooperate with villages and towns on planning matters including providing professional
planning services under mutual agreement. The high quality of the planning program that places Onondaga County in a leadership position in New York State with respect to Geographic Information Systems, Smart Growth, New Urbanism, and farmland protection is due to the strong leadership, vision, and support of the Onondaga County Administration and the Onondaga County Legislature. The dedicated volunteers who serve on the County Planning Board and the City Planning Commission work countless hours contributing a range of perspectives, experience, sound judgment and expert local knowledge to the Agency’s planning program.
PLANNING PHILOSOPHY AND PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
The Onondaga County 2010 Development Guide, a smart growth plan that was updated and adopted in 1998, expresses County policies and goals for economic growth, an attractive community, diversity and choice, and fiscal strength. Strategies call for good community planning, cost-effective infrastructure, sustainable development patterns, and stewardship of the natural environment. Policies support investment in existing urban and suburban communities, compact development in rural areas, and protection of the rural economy, agriculture and access to natural resources. The Onondaga County Settlement Plan is designed to provide the city, towns, and villages with ways to address typical urban design problems and promote investment in existing community centers. The Settlement Plan is based on the principles of new urbanism to structure regional development and transportation systems, and preserve the natural environment. The Settlement Plan provides design solutions to typical urban problems from rural hamlets to downtown neighborhoods.
The towns of Dewitt and Tully, villages of Liverpool, Solvay, and Baldwinsville, and the city of Syracuse have all used the Settlement Plan and its Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Code to enhance and guide local plans and codes. Several significant developments are based on the Settlement Plan guidelines, and both Onondaga County and New York State Departments of Transportation have completed road reconstruction projects that include pedestrian enhancements based on the Settlement Plan recommendations and policies. Three documents comprise the Onondaga County Settlement Plan. They are the Regional Plan And Pilot Projects report, Traditional
Neighborhood Development (TND) Guidelines, and a Traditional Neighborhood Development Code.
MAJOR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Planning Services include land use and comprehensive planning; data collection, analysis, and distribution; participation in the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council; assistance to county, city, town and village departments; inter-municipal coordination of development through the Onondaga County Planning Board, and provision of training and planning information for municipal planners through the Onondaga County Planning Federation.
The Geographic Information System (GIS) division maintains an array of geographic files and geo-referenced databases for planning and mapping purposes. GIS mapping and database technology has proven an invaluable resource in municipal planning activities and many other government functions. GIS staff work on many special projects to meet the unique needs of many county departments, ranging from Water Environment Protection, Transportation, and Economic Development, to the District Attorney and Health. GIS data and maps are made available to the public on a web page maintained by SOCPA and linked to the County and City of Syracuse web sites. The GIS division also manages, distributes, and supports the county’s digital aerial photography program (Pictometry). The 911 Address Administration program is responsible for approving all street names and assigning address numbers in most towns in Onondaga County. This program ensures a high quality address system for the 911 Emergency Communications Department. Address Administration staff has been directly responsible for all geographic file development and enhancement for the 911 Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. The requirements of the new CAD system represent a major increase in functionality and new information available to dispatchers. The Syracuse Office of Zoning Administration serves the City Planning Commission, the Board of Zoning Appeals and Common Council on all zoning matters. The zoning offices are located in City Hall Commons. SOCPA STAFF
The Planning Agency was well served by a talented and dedicated staff in 2007. The success of the agency in practicing and promoting effective land use planning depends on the technical skills and ability of staff to build good working relationships within County and City government, and with planning officials in every town and village. Every staff member excels on both counts. Most of our personnel have been with the agency for many years providing continuity in program development and the inter-municipal relationships that are vital to a solid planning program. However,
2007 saw the retirement of two extremely knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated staff: Planning Director Karen Kitney and City Zoning Administrator Charles Ladd. In preparation for these retirements and to increase the staffing capacity of the Planning Services division to work on various planning projects, senior staff worked diligently to hire and train new personnel with advanced degrees in planning and natural resources so that continuity in the agency could be maintained. In 2007, SOCPA added three Planner I staff, two in the Planning Services division and one in City Zoning Administration.
2007 PROGRAMS
PLANNING SERVICES The Planning Services division undertakes general and special planning projects and data collection in support of its basic planning mission. Land development is tracked through building permits filed, subdivision plats, and assessors’ data on land use. SOCPA is a NYS Data Center affiliate, responsible for the distribution, interpretation and analysis of United States Census Data. Planning Services provides staff services to the Onondaga County Planning Board and the Onondaga County Planning Federation. Technical assistance is provided to County and City departments and to the towns and villages. Coordination and participation with other planning organizations is vital to the Agency’s planning mission. SOCPA is the host of the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council (SMTC) and serves on the Planning and Executive committees and many Study Advisory Committees. The Chair of the Onondaga County Planning Board sits on the SMTC policy committee. The Planning Services division represents SOCPA on the County’s Capital Program Committee, the Environmental Health Council, and the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board. 2007 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
•••• Onondaga County Planning Board -The County Planning Board operates under NYS General Municipal Law §239 l, m & n to advise local boards on the potential inter-municipal or countywide impact of local land use decisions. The Board meets every three weeks to review an average of 36 municipal referrals at each meeting. In all, Board members attended 18 meetings in 2007 and devoted over 600 hours of volunteer service reviewing 647 municipal land use referrals. The Board’s caseload included review of 472 proposed zoning actions and 175 subdivisions in 2007.
Onondaga County Planning Board
Zoning and Subdivision Case Referrals: 1990-2007
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Year
No. of C
ases
Subdivision Zoning
The Board used the 2010 Development Guide to direct its recommendations on municipal land use referrals and to review the proposed Onondaga County Capital Improvement Program 2008 to
2013. Continued progress was made in 2007 to streamline Planning Board operations using
database software to reduce time required for document preparation and distribution with a substantial cost savings for routine Board activities.
Address Administration staff, on behalf of the County Planning Board, reviewed 211 new street names, issued 28 street name reservation letters, and issued 226 letters of compliance with the City of Syracuse’s Three Mile Limit Review. All of the above are requirements of Local Law number 5-1972. The Board also approved two street name changes.
• Onondaga County Planning Federation – The Onondaga County Planning Federation is a not-for profit organization with a focus on educating its members and promoting community and inter-municipal planning within Onondaga County. In 2007, with significant support of SOCPA Planning staff, a Board of Directors was elected, by-laws began to be drafted, and a program committee was created, in an effort to re-invigorate the Federation and increase its utility for local planning education.
Effective January 1, 2007, new state legislation mandates a minimum of four hours of training for every county and municipal planning and zoning board member. In January and September, the Onondaga County Planning Federation held daylong conferences for an audience of local planning and zoning officials, code enforcement officers attorneys and members of the public. Given the new state training requirement and improvements in the program, interest and demand for training through the Federation conference has increased participation fourfold in the past few years, providing annual training to over 450 municipal board members. The annual program has historically provided training for new board members and information on topics and changes in statutory and case law for long-term board members. In 2007, the Federation and staff put considerable effort into shifting the Federation conference to a bi-annual event, expanding its course offerings to current topics such as sustainability, wind power, and rural development issues, and introducing keynote speakers. Enhancements to these educational sessions have been appreciated by attendees, and serve as a growing avenue for the County Planning Agency to educate decision-makers on topics that are of interest and concern in Onondaga County.
• Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council - The Planning Agency is the host agency for the federally funded Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). The Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board carries out responsibility for the administration and operation of the SMTC, under an agreement with the County. SMTC is charged with implementation of planning requirements of the SAFETEA-LU (Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act – A Legacy For Users) federal transportation program, and annual adoption of the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP), which allocates Federal funds for highway construction, maintenance and transit capital investments within the Syracuse Urbanized Area.
The Chair of the Onondaga County Planning Board sits on the Policy Committee. The Director of the Planning Agency is an ex-officio member of the SMTC Executive Committee and a member of the SMTC Planning Committee.
The SOCPA Planning Services division provides direct technical and administrative assistance to
SMTC, including data collection and analysis and participation in Study Advisory Committees. In
2007, SOCPA staff was involved in developing scopes of services for a number of new planning studies and participated in the following SMTC studies:
SMTC Long Range Transportation Plan Update
Travel Demand Model Upgrade
University Hill Transportation Study
Emergency Travel Routes in Onondaga County
Northern MPA Planning Committee
Clay/Cicero Route 31 Corridor Study
F-M Road/Route 257 Pedestrian
Accommodation Feasibility Study
Transportation-Land Use Outreach
Downer Street Corridor Study
SOCPA played a very significant role in three particular SMTC efforts during 2007. SOCPA contributed both as a Study Advisory Committee member and provided substantial data and input toward the advancement of the Long Range Transportation Plan 2006-07 Update and associated Travel Demand Model Upgrade project. Planning Services staff also played a key role in a collaborative planning effort for the Route 31 corridor through the towns of Clay and Cicero. Significant development activity, both residential and commercial, continues to change the character of the corridor. This effort has aimed to set goals and priorities for the management of continued build out along this important transportation corridor.
SOCPA continued to update land use and economic activity data, assign building permit data to traffic analysis zones, provide census information, and offer planning assistance as part of the SMTC work program.
•••• Milton Avenue Zoning Study – In 2007, SOCPA completed work for the Village of Solvay on a corridor study and zoning recommendations for the Milton Avenue corridor. Faced with open lots in its commercial core, a shift in its business makeup, and a degradation of aesthetic value on the corridor, the Village sought to protect its historic Main Street experience. SOCPA prepared a zoning and land use analysis of the corridor and developed a series of zoning and other recommendations, including the creation of a Milton Avenue specific zoning district with design standards, for the Village. Many principles from the Onondaga County Settlement Plan were used in the development of the study. The proposed zoning district was adopted in January 2008.
• Hazard Mitigation Plan – The federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 mandates that all local governments across the country have pre-disaster mitigation plans. A plan adopted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the New York State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) allows the county and participating municipalities to apply for a substantial pool of funds for disaster prevention projects throughout the county. Having this plan in place will also allow Onondaga County to not only restore facilities once a disaster strikes, but to improve the facilities to prevent them from future damage. In 2007, Onondaga County applied for, and received, a grant to prepare a multi-jurisdictional All-Hazards Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan.
•••• City of Syracuse Projects & Committees – The Planning Services division of the Agency has participated on several city-based project committees. SOCPA played a critical role in initiating the update of the City of Syracuse Comprehensive Plan, and continues to follow the planning process by participating in the development of the City Land Use Plan and serving on a Design Guidelines committee for commercial corridors. In addition, SOCPA has participated in the American Institute of Architects Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) Committee in 2006 and 2007, and served on project committees relating to Interstate 81 and Downtown parking issues.
•••• Farmland Protection – SOCPA is a member of the Onondaga County Agriculture and Farmland
Protection Board (AFPB). Approximately forty percent of the land in Onondaga County is farmland, which contributes significantly to the county's economy.
In 2007, the Farmland Protection Board saw a continued interest in the farmland conservation easement program, sponsored by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. (Applicants for the state funds must receive the endorsements of the local AFPB). The Agriculture & Farmland Protection Board worked collaboratively through a 'pre-application' process to objectively narrow the number of projects to endorse three applications for farm properties to be forwarded for consideration for state funding. In December 2007, Blumer Eagle Point Farms, received a $2.1 million grant from New York State for the purchase of development rights on their farmland. This project will protect 836 acres in the Town of Elbridge, including the main farmstead, and 270 acres in the Town of Cato in neighboring Cayuga County. Preventing development of this prime farmland contributes to the viability of agriculture in Onondaga County, works toward preventing unsustainable sprawl and infrastructure extension, and protects valuable soils and open space.
SOCPA has contracted with Cornell Cooperative Extension to administer the Agricultural District Program on behalf of the County and began the process of renewing Agricultural District 4, as well as soliciting proposed parcel additions and deletions to the Agricultural Districts countywide.
• Data Center – In its designation as a State Data Center Affiliate, SOCPA staff handled over 20 requests for U.S. Census data dissemination, analysis, and technical assistance during 2007. These came from government, business, community-based and non-profit organizations, media, and private citizens. Staff attended two State Data Center meetings that provided training and updates on the latest census releases and programs.
Staff has compiled data and educational materials regarding the release of census data through the new American Community Survey Program, a replacement for the Census Bureau’s Decennial Census Long Form program. Staff has encouraged local participation in the Census Bureau Survey of Building Permits program in order to provide the most accurate information to the Census Bureau’s Annual Population Estimates program. SOCPA also worked with the US Census Bureau on municipal boundary and address verification tasks in Onondaga County for the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) program on behalf of municipalities, to ensure an accurate distribution of census forms for the 2010 Short Form decennial census effort.
• Community Development Environmental Reviews - The Planning Agency prepared approximately 20 environmental reviews for Onondaga County's Community Development Department. All projects receiving HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding are required to include an Environmental Review to satisfy the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidelines, and also prepare documents to satisfy State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) requirements. Increasing experience by Planning Services staff in performing these reviews has helped to streamline the process since taking on this role in 2005.
•••• Environmental Health Council - SOCPA is a member of the Environmental Health Council and provides planning and demographic advice as needed. The Council reviewed open space needs and adopted a policy recommendation for the County’s 2010 Development Guide update.
2008 PROGRAM
•••• 2010 Development Guide Update – Under the direction of the County Executive and the Onondaga County Planning Board, Planning Services staff will commence an update to Onondaga County’s comprehensive plan document, the 2010 Development Guide and Framework For
Growth in Onondaga County. These documents, adopted in 1998, will be updated to analyze changing demographic information, reflect on development activity since the last plan, cite new economic development goals, and develop new policies for growth and growth management. The Onondaga County Settlement Plan and related sustainable development principles will be utilized in creating the new plan.
• Onondaga County Planning Board – The Board will continue to implement the 2010
Development Guide policies through review of municipal zoning and subdivision referrals and review of the County’s Capital Improvement Program. The Board will guide the update of the 2010 Development Guide.
• Onondaga County Planning Federation – In 2008, the Onondaga County Planning Federation will continue its efforts to expand and enhance its programming through its newly bi-annual conference for Federation members and the public. The first of two conferences scheduled for 2008 has already taken place, hosting its largest crowd to date of over 280 participants. Another conference is currently being planned for the Fall of 2008. Within the Federation Board of Directors, work will continue on the development of by-laws, and the program committee will continue work on conference planning and development of new Federation activities.
•••• Hazard Mitigation Plan – In 2007, Onondaga County applied for, and received funding for, preparation of a multi-jurisdictional All-Hazard Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan for Onondaga County. In 2008, the Planning Services staff will hire a consultant to prepare the Mitigation Plan, provide data, engage local governments in the process, manage a public outreach effort, and submit the draft plan to the New York State Emergency Management Office and Federal Emergency Management Agency for review and approval. Adoption of the document by the Onondaga County Legislature is anticipated in 2009.
The total project cost is $200,000, with $150,000 being used to hire a consultant to prepare the plan, and a $50,000 local match, which will be provided with in-kind services. The Planning Agency will be managing the consultant contract and providing planning and GIS information to the project. Onondaga County’s Department of Emergency Management, with their expertise and contacts, will also play a large part in the preparation of the plan. In addition, municipalities that participate will also be considered towards the local match.
All local governments in Onondaga County will be strongly encouraged to participate in the multi-jurisdictional plan for Onondaga County, as all municipalities across the country are mandated to have a plan, or take part in and adopt a multi-jurisdictional plan such as Onondaga County’s, in order to be eligible for the abovementioned funding sources.
• Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council (SMTC) –SOCPA staff will continue to update land use data for transportation planning models. Staff will participate in various Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) transportation Study Advisory Committees, and continue to sit on SMTC Planning, Executive, and Policy committees, as necessary. Significant SMTC projects in 2008
include the culmination of the Clay/Cicero Route 31 Corridor Study and the continuation of the multi-year Emergency Travel Routes project, in cooperation with Onondaga County’s Department of Emergency Management. SOCPA will play a role in major studies and public participation efforts in relation to Interstate 81 in Onondaga County, sponsored by SMTC and the New York State Department of Transportation.
•••• Farmland Protection – Staff will continue to participate in the activities of the Onondaga County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board, including assisting in the purchase of development rights agreements for farms already approved for farmland protection grants in Onondaga County, as well as analyzing annual applications for the program. In 2008, the renewal of Agricultural District #4 will begin with outreach to property owners within the district, legislative approval, and review by the Onondaga County Planning Board. The addition of properties in the remaining Agricultural Districts #1, 2 and 3 will also occur.
•• SOCPA Web Site - SOCPA will update its web page, which can be accessed through the County’s web site, www.ongov.net. The new site, in addition to providing contact information for staff and descriptions of operating divisions, will provide access to such information as planning documents and project updates, GIS maps, demographic data, and Planning Board schedules and requirements.
• City of Syracuse Projects & Committees – In 2008, SOCPA staff will continue to play an active role in furthering the City’s Comprehensive Plan effort, including the creation of a City Land Use Plan and design guidelines for commercial corridors. Participation on other planning-related committees and working groups will also continue, upon request.
Planning Services staff has also been requested by the Syracuse Planning Commission to perform a study of billboards, and other topics as necessary. The Planning Services division periodically prepares reports for the Commission on planning topics or geographic areas within the city, for their use in decision-making.
• NYS Data Center / US Census – SOCPA will continue to cooperate with the Central New York Regional Planning & Development Board, the Chamber of Commerce, and Syracuse University in providing the community with census and demographic information. Planning Staff will prepare an annual report to the New York State Data Center and attend bi-annual Data Center meetings to receive the latest updates in information and programming. Staff will also continue work on the Census Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) process and update of municipal boundaries on behalf of Onondaga County municipalities.
• Community Development Environmental Reviews - SOCPA will continue to perform environmental reviews on behalf of the Onondaga County Department of Community Development, in order to satisfy the national and state environmental review process for all of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects.
911 ADDRESS ADMINISTRATION
The SOCPA Address Administration division continued work on the three program elements that support the geographic needs of the 911 program: telephone data base quality control, address administration, and development and enhancement of digital geographic resources. Each program element involves ongoing maintenance tasks, as well as developmental action to meet the changing needs of the emergency communications system. Staff also maintains a monitoring system for development of land in Onondaga County. Telephone Database Quality Control – Quality control activities were continued as in previous years. The number of problems reported was down about twenty percent from recent years, due in part to improvements in customer transaction management of the various telephone providers. As a result, staff was able to devote more time to fine tuning the Master Street Address Guide (MSAG) used by the telephone companies to validate customer addresses. While additions to the MSAG were slightly lower than previous years, 534 old records were deleted from the MSAG, which is a significant increase. Improvement in the MSAG quality also improves individual telephone location accuracy. Address Administration – Administration of addresses involves the creation of new addresses and the improvement of existing addresses as needed. Activities in this program area were higher than in recent years. The number of address changes increased over 2006, and address assignments for future housing increased to 1,562 units. Digital Geographic Resources – The Planning Agency continued maintenance on the three major geographic databases used in emergency service communication: the telephone system’s MSAG, the Criminal History and Incident Reporting System (CHAIRS) street file, and the street files used by the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. The new 911 CAD system was successfully started in 2006. Staff spent considerable time in establishing the processes to convert our spatial data into the CAD software environment. Substantial formatting and changes to the data were necessary to make the conversion possible. Improvements to the process are still ongoing and reflect the priorities of the dispatching community. A similar process occurred when Onondaga County moved to the original CAD system in the early 1990’s. The new CAD system includes many more digital geographic resources than the previous generation CAD. The street line and map overlays (fire districts, police posts etc.) were ready for the new system and were converted with no major difficulty. The common place function in the previous system has been dramatically upgraded in the new system. The common place database, consisting of 12,000 major public and commercial buildings and other points of interest, that was developed by Address Administration staff has been successfully migrated to the new system. To supplement this dataset, Address Administration and GIS staff have developed a new residential building file that will include every address in the county. A prototype was developed in late 2006, and in 2007 GIS staff built databases for eleven towns, seven of which were reviewed by Address Administration staff and prepared for integration into the CAD system. In 2008, staff will continue to develop the CAD transfer process and build this file. Land Development Monitoring System - The Agency’s land development monitoring system continued progress in 2007. This system is designed to keep track of new addresses and also support the Agency’s building permit reporting. The system now includes 8,100 detailed records on building
lots and permits and covers all development since 2000. This resource is assisting in the development of the new building database being created for the new 911 CAD system. 2007 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Reviewed 625 telephone data base records with telephone companies.
• Edited 371 street file records and added 85 new records.
• Completed mapping upgrades for Cayuga and Cortland counties.
• Added 63 new records and deleted 534 old records in the telephone MSAG.
• Made 404 address range corrections in the MSAG.
• Issued 304 address changes.
• Assigned 1,562 new addresses.
• Researched 200 telephone database complaints from 911 operations.
• Researched and resolved 424 geo-file problems cited by 911.
• Maintained the digital street file and finished enhanced line quality upgrade.
• Participated in 911 CAD geo file modification and transfer process development.
• Validated 10 requests from cellular telephone companies regarding cell tower address locations.
• Maintained Land Development Monitoring system.
• Maintained subdivision database (filed maps).
• Developed new building database format and completed records for seven towns (Fabius, Tully, Otisco, Spafford, LaFayette, Pompey and Marcellus).
2008 PROGRAM
• Continue improvement in geo file development for the new CAD system, especially in file transfer processes.
• Maintain Land Development Monitoring System.
• Continue ANI/ALI maintenance, cell tower location validation and 911 problem resolution.
• Closely monitor telephone company data operations regarding ANI/ALI process.
• Continue assistance to safety agencies acquiring info systems with geographic component including supporting the change to the new CAD system.
• Continue development of building file.
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) A Geographic Information System is a computerized mapping system that allows the mapping and analysis of multiple layers of geographically related data. Any data (such as address, ownership, assessment, physical features, census data, land use, client data, etc.) that can be tied to a geographic location can be manipulated for analytical, modeling, or display purposes. As the coordinating body for the County’s GIS Program, SOCPA has assisted many City and County Departments in the creation of GIS products and in their development of in-house GIS capability. The number of departments serviced remained high in 2007 as many departments took advantage of the data analysis and mapping capability of the GIS program. Departments receiving assistance include: the County Executive’s Office, the Legislature, Health, Mental Health, Environmental Health, Social Services, Aging and Youth, Transportation, Economic Development, Community Development, Board of Elections, the 911 Center, Sheriff’s, District Attorney, Law, OCC, Parks, Water Environment Protection, Management and Budget, Finance, Personnel, Emergency Management, the Office of the Environment, the Lake Improvement Project, OCRRA, the Soil and Water Conservation District, and the Farmland Protection Board; and City Departments of Assessment, Aviation, Community Development, Economic Development, Engineering, Fire, Police, Public Works, Zoning, the Downtown Committee, Home Headquarters, and the Metropolitan Development Association. In addition, SOCPA has continued to extend GIS services to towns and villages (Towns of Elbridge and Onondaga; and Villages of Camillus and Solvay in 2007) on a revenue basis and has acted as a technical advisor to municipalities developing their own GIS capabilities. In 2004, the GIS division worked jointly with the City of Syracuse Bureau of Information Systems and a consultant to develop a GIS website that enables county employees, municipalities, businesses, and the public to access Onondaga County's GIS data. The project was funded through a Technology Venture Capital grant obtained by the GIS division and a State Archives grant secured by the city. The site was formally introduced to the public in January of 2005. Since its inception, the web site has experienced very heavy usage, as over 310,000 visitors, from more than 80 countries, have hit the site over 15 million times. Monthly usage statistics for 2007 were as follows:
2007 GIS WEB SITE USAGE
Month Visitors Hits
January 6,012 365,635
February 4,492 291,808
March 4,953 311,983
April 6,435 337,655
May 7,487 422,818
June 5,658 296,937
July 5,664 334,646
August 4,621 267,511
September 4,743 269,493
October 6,590 323,329
November 4,307 251,191
December 3,545 212,842
TOTAL 64,507 3,685,848
In 2007, GIS staff updated the data on the site and will continue to maintain the data in the future.
The GIS division has taken a lead role in managing the Pictometry aerial photography program. This program has provided the county with high-resolution color digital aerial photography that is useful to virtually every department. This program began in 2000 and the first library of photos was delivered in late 2002. Seventeen county departments and over 110 county employees, the City of Syracuse, all 19 towns, 6 villages, 1 school district, 1 fire department, the Syracuse Housing Authority, OCWA, and SMTC are now using Pictometry. SOCPA worked with the 911 department to fund a re-fly of the county in 2005 and 2006. SOCPA also coordinated with towns to provide them the opportunity to purchase additional low-level photography of their town. Four towns elected to expand their low-level coverage. Pictometry began capturing images in 2005 and completed the process and delivered the photo warehouse in 2006. In late 2006 and early 2007, SOCPA worked with the Department of Information Technology to make the new imagery available to county employees. Throughout 2007, GIS staff worked on distributing the new photos to authorized users in the county. GIS staff continued to provide technical support for Pictometry users and produced prints of photos for departments upon request.
In a joint project with the Onondaga County Water Authority (OCWA), the County tax maps have been converted into seamless digital files for each town. These parcel files are being used as a base for GIS data and a mechanism for spatially analyzing property assessment data. The County and OCWA, contingent upon entering into an agreement to share any data derived from the parcel files, make the digital files available to municipalities. SOCPA acts as the point of contact and distributor of these files, helps to coordinate data creation, and acts as a data repository for data created using the parcel base. In 2007, SOCPA continued to coordinate the parcel update subscription program that has helped simplify the process of municipalities receiving data updates. SOCPA also continued to act as the point of contact for parcel data sales to commercial entities. In 2006, GIS staff coordinated with the departments of Environmental Health, Health, 911, Sheriff, Transportation, and Water Environment Protection to consolidate GIS software licenses, help users get current with their software, and begin to pay software maintenance in order to receive updates in the future. In 2007, GIS staff assisted other county GIS software users with installing and using the most current software. In 2006, GIS staff completed the City of Syracuse digital zoning map, zoning atlas, and zoning database. Staff assisted the City Zoning office with integrating the new tools into their workflow and conducted a demonstration of the maps and database for city department heads and staff. In 2007, GIS staff assisted the Zoning staff with assimilating the digital maps, data, and Pictometry into their Lean Office procedures. Staff also created an historical atlas to supplement the zoning atlas.
In 2006, GIS staff developed a prototype residential structure address point file that will be used to improve accuracy and efficiency in 911’s dispatch system and greatly facilitate address searches in many other applications, including Pictometry. In 2007, GIS staff built address point files for the towns of Camillus, Cicero, Elbridge, Fabius, LaFayette, Marcellus, Onondaga, Otisco, Pompey, Spafford, and Tully. Work on developing this countywide database will continue in 2008.
2007 ACCOMPLISHMENTS GIS is now integrated into the work of many county and city departments. In 2007, SOCPA's GIS team provided the following services: General
• Upgraded GIS users in the county to current software.
• Updated the data available on the GIS website.
• Updated all town parcel files to 2007 data.
• Updated county and city Real Property databases to 2007 data to coincide with the parcel files.
• Continued developing an address database of residences in the county matched to the NYS orthoimagery (completed towns of Camillus, Cicero, Elbridge, Fabius, LaFayette, Marcellus, Onondaga, Otisco, Pompey, Spafford, and Tully in 2007).
• Received the 2006 NYS digital orthoimagery from the state and integrated it into the GIS.
• Worked on editing data layers (ex. street file) to align better with the NYS orthophotography.
• Processed LiDAR data provided by NYSDEC and produced hillshade, slope, and 1 meter and 5 foot contour datasets.
• Developed a 1960 urban land cover dataset and produced an “Urban Development in Onondaga County, 1960-2000” map.
County Executive
• Prepared maps and air photos upon request. Legislature
• Prepared maps, air photos, and data upon request. Management and Budget
• Updated the Capital Projects map to reflect 2008 projects. Economic Development
• Prepared Empire Zone and regionally significant project maps.
• Created site maps and photos upon request. Office of Environment
• Prepared maps and air photos upon request. Community Development
• Prepared Community Development Block Group (CDBG) eligibility maps.
• Prepared maps of the CDBG capital projects. Farmland Protection
• Updated map of farms designated for purchase of developmental rights.
• Updated the agricultural districts as additions and deletions occurred.
• Provided GIS support for PDR farm applications and environmental impact statements.
Board of Elections
• Updated maps and provided map prints upon request.
• Developed a spatial database of polling place locations.
• Address matched the voter registration database. Transportation
• Provided mailing data for public notification near project sites.
• Updated the snowplow responsibility map.
• Provided DOT with data and technical support.
• Produced maps and air photos upon request. Law Enforcement/Public Safety
• Prepared a number of incident location maps and photos for the District Attorney's Office, the Sheriff's Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
• Prepared detailed maps of individual fire districts. Emergency Management
• Prepared maps and air photos upon request.
• Worked with Emergency Management staff to ensure continued access to the GIS in the event of an emergency.
911
• Provided 911 with data and technical advice.
• Continued developing a residential point file to be used in the CAD system.
• Consulted on address matching the ANI/ALI database against the street file for use in the reverse 911 system.
Law Department
• Prepared maps and air photos upon request. Health
• Provided continued GIS support for the regional Point of Distribution planning project.
• Continued to provide the Health Department with data and technical support.
• Produced maps and data for the Lead unit upon request. Environmental Health
• Continued to provide maps, air photos, and technical support upon request.
• Provided mailing data for properties near Water Chestnut treatment locations. Aging and Youth
• Prepared maps upon request.
• Developed a database and prepared a map of senior housing facilities in the county. Social Services
• Produced maps upon request.
• Produced school catchment area maps for the Westside Community School Strategy project.
Parks
• Prepared maps of park properties with coordinate grids overlaid for navigating with GPS. Onondaga Community College
• Mapped the distribution of students and alumni.
• Mapped the proximity of bus routes to student locations. Water Environment Protection
• Continued providing GIS support for Water Environment Protection's CMMS.
• Prepared a map of residential growth in the Oak Orchard treatment plant service area.
• Mapped sewer districts in the towns of Lysander and Van Buren.
• Updated the sanitary district boundary using legislative resolutions provided by WEP.
• Distributed data to different WEP and Lake Project consultants.
• Prepared maps and air photos for WEP and the Lake Project upon request. Soil and Water Conservation District
• Provided data and technical support. City of Syracuse
• Prepared maps and air photos for city departments upon request.
• Prepared “Creative Communities” land use maps for the MDA.
• Prepared commercial corridor maps for the city Design Guideline project.
• Prepared maps for the city Land Use plan.
• Developed a historical atlas to supplement the zoning atlas.
• Prepared a variety of maps and photos for the MDA and the Downtown Committee. Municipal
• Prepared maps for the Town of Onondaga master plan.
• Began a project with the Town of Elbridge to update their zoning map.
• Prepared maps for the Village of Camillus master plan.
• Created maps for the Village of Solvay (Milton Ave.) zoning study. Coordination and Outreach
• Continued working with Tax Mapping and OCWA on the parcel base-mapping project.
• Continued coordinating the municipal parcel data update subscription program and distributed data to participants.
• Continued to act as the point of contact for parcel data distribution.
• Continued advising municipalities on setting up their own GIS programs.
• Provided spatial data to consultants working on various projects for school districts (North Syracuse).
• Exchanged data with Syracuse University and SUNY ESF faculty. Pictometry
• Received the 2006 image warehouse and worked with the Information Technology department to integrate it into the county’s network.
• Produced prints of Pictometry photos for county departments upon request.
• Tiled photos together to provide seamless imagery for various county projects encompassing large areas.
• With the help of the Department of Information Technology, continued distributing Pictometry to county departments and employees. There are now 17 departments and over 110 employees using Pictometry.
• Continued distributing Pictometry to municipalities and government entities in the county. The City of Syracuse, all 19 towns, 5 villages, 1 school district, 1 fire department, OCWA, SMTC, and the Syracuse Housing Authority are now using Pictometry.
• Provided training for Pictometry users.
• Continued upgrading Pictometry software for users throughout the county.
• Assisted 911 with accessing surrounding county image warehouses and creating a regional workspace file.
2008 PROGRAM
• Continue distributing the new Pictometry photo library to county departments and municipalities.
• Maintain data on the GIS web site.
• Work with the GIS web site developer and host to continue to add functionality and make the site easier to use, including linking to Real Property’s Image Mate Online site.
• Make the City of Syracuse Zoning Atlas available through the Internet.
• Assist county departments with installing and learning to use current GIS software.
• Continue to assist city and county departments with data analysis and mapping needs.
• Continue to support other department's information systems.
• Continue to advise and assist towns and villages in developing GIS programs, with the goal of an inter-linked system that permits data to be shared by all participants of the cooperative.
• Continue to coordinate the distribution of OCWA's digital parcel files.
• Update all town parcel files to 2008 data.
• Update county and city Real Property databases to 2008 data to coincide with parcel files.
• Continue developing a residential point file for use in 911’s CAD system.
CITY OF SYRACUSE ZONING ADMINISTRATION
Inquiries and applications regarding city zoning and subdivision matters are processed at the City of Syracuse Office of Zoning Administration, located within City Hall Commons. The zoning staff works in conjunction with numerous City departments, particularly the Division of Code Enforcement and the Office of the Corporation Counsel, in an effort to bring about coordinated and efficient administration of City land use rules and regulations. Boards - The Office of Zoning Administration provides staff to the Syracuse City Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals. About two-fifths of the staff’s time is invested in direct support of these two boards. Staff also serves on the City’s Development Review Board. Relationship to Other Departments - The Zoning Office is involved in processing requests for encroachments into city street rights-of-way and responding to referrals from city departments dealing with licenses, Certificates of Use and Certificates of Occupancy and Compliance. “Zone checks”: In conjunction with the City's Division of Code Enforcement, staff again included the completion of over 500 zone check determination forms which detail the zoning status and history of specific properties in 2007. SEQRA - Assistance was given on zoning actions in environmental status determinations as required by the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act, and in authorization and notification for public hearings. Staff also provided assistance to the Office of Corporation Counsel in matters of zoning litigation and development of non-zoning regulatory ordinances affecting land use activities. Certificates of Use - This is a city program for assuring responsible operation of all commercial establishments - restaurants, grocery stores, etc. - selling or serving food and drink. Due to the mandatory requirement for filing for these Certificates, the various departments involved (Finance, Codes, Police, and Zoning) continued to see a number of new applications. For each involved business, on-site inspections are required and a thorough review of compliance with the applicable regulations such as zoning and building codes is necessary. The number of certificates processed for 2007 was 31. Extra-Territorial Review - The Office of Zoning Administration reviews subdivisions proposed for properties in adjacent towns, under the state Three-Mile Limit law. These cases are presented to the City Planning Commission and the City Engineer. Administrative Level Decisions - The Zoning Administrator, through specific provisions of the Zoning Rules and Regulations, has the authority to review requests for sign permits, lot alterations, waivers of building and yard restrictions, fence restriction waivers, project site plans, and Certificates of Suitability. The Zoning Administrator also serves as an alternate for the Chair of City Planning Commission to the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council. Certificates of Suitability - Certificates of Suitability are approvals of plans for properties within a Special Neighborhood District established near Syracuse University. These cases involve review of floor and site plans for absentee-owned residential properties, and are intended to act as benchmarks by which compliance can be measured. During the last year issues of density, congestion, and parking difficulties in the Special Neighborhood District rose in importance, and various ideas were presented to address them. In October, zoning amendments were adopted to address parking and open spaces for
properties in the district coming into absentee ownership for the first time. These amendments were coupled with limitations put on parking surfaces for single- and two-family properties throughout the city. Project Site Reviews - Since 2003, the Office of Zoning Administration has been reviewing cases under the Project Site Review process. Under this review, buildings and additions are examined for consistency with adopted land use plans or, in the absence of such plans, compatibility with the context of surrounding existing development. The Zoning Administrator administers the first level of review. A second level of review by the City Planning Commission can occur where further decisions are required for projects not entirely consistent or compatible with the applicable standards. Of the 37 cases considered in 2007, three were forwarded to the City Planning Commission for review. At both the administrative and Commission levels there appears to be a trend toward larger, more expensive projects. Special Liaison to Community Development - In 2007, the Office of Zoning Administration became less active in the review process for applications made under 24CFR Part 58 (HUD requirements), the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and other applicable requirements such as Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, Section 14.09 of the New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Law of 1980, and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) floodplain management requirements. This was offset with the increasing work associated with the Project Site Reviews and other cases more directly involved with zoning regulations. Also, the Office of Zoning Administration became more immediately involved in determinations made under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) rather than in a purely advisory role. Comprehensive Planning - The Office of Zoning Administration continued to collaborate on the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Zoning Office also continued to be involved with SUNY-ESF's undergraduate Urban Design Studio on various planning projects. The Office also participated in planning efforts involving city consultants. Digitized Zoning Atlas - In 2006, the Office of Zoning Administration started utilizing a digitized version of the City Zoning Atlas, created by SOCPA’s GIS staff. The atlas, coupled with the latest zoning regulation text, should be on-line for readily available access to the general public in early 2008. Special Projects - The Lakefront Development District, aimed at promoting the concept of pedestrian friendly streetscapes, and the alternative Tourism Overlay District, continued to play a factor in individual development projects. Notwithstanding the current DestiNY/Carousel Center expansion plan, which includes a hotel and green industry, plans for area-wide development of the Lakefront area have yet to come to fruition. It has become apparent, irrespective of longer-range possibilities, that some changes in the current regulations are needed to accommodate intermediate growth needs. These modifications will be a focus of attention in 2008. The West Genesee Street Automobile Row Corridor, which was the focus of attention in 2006, saw several automobile business proposals come under review in 2007. The special overlay district was designed to accommodate improvement of automobile sales businesses but has also offered protection for the peripheral non-commercial areas adjacent to the corridor. Lean Office – In mid-2007, the Office of Zoning Administration, with guidance from Onondaga County and a consultant, engaged in a “Lean Office” review of the zoning function. The goal of this
review was to identify ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness and has meant examining the fundamental nature and mission of the zoning operation. To date, implementation of “Lean Office” principles has led to more efficient customer service, increased communication with other city departments, better utilization of digital resources, streamlined office procedures, and a more user-friendly experience for the public doing business with the office. The Lean Office concepts and procedures will evolve over time, meaning Zoning staff will continually review procedures in an effort to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. REVIEW OF FORMAL CASES The formal cases processed by the Office of Zoning Administration can be found on the accompanying tables. As in 2006,administrative reviews continued to constitute a large proportion of the 2007 cases. Syracuse Zoning Administrator
The Office of Zoning Administration was created by the Syracuse Common Council in 1973. The initial purpose of the office was to empower the Zoning Administrator to act on requests for waivers of sign ordinance regulations and to issue administrative permits for off-premise advertising and roof signs. The Zoning Administrator role was later expanded to include waiver authority with respect to the City's fence regulations, building and lot restrictions, and jurisdiction over minor subdivisions. Zoning Administrator caseload for 2007 is summarized below.
Syracuse Zoning Administration: Cases By Type 1996-2007
22
813 13 11 10
15 1321
16
85
4647 47
57
4336 35
60
4856
33
2
16
28
3943
72
42
2822
29
65
53
42
30
8490
127
47
3327 28 29
39
73
28 31
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Lot Coverage and Alterations Fences and Encroachments Signs Certificates of Suitability
* Above chart includes project site reviews in the first category: Lot Coverage, etc.
Syracuse Zoning Administration: Action on Cases by Type 2007
Action Cases Approved Denied Pending Closed
Certificates of Suitability 31 31 0 0 0
Sign Cases 30 23 6 0 1
Screening Device Waivers / Encroachments
(final action by Common Council)
16 14 1 1 0
Administrative Waivers 3 3 0 0 0
Lot Alterations 9 8 0 0 1
Project Site Reviews 37 29 3 2 3
Total 126** 108 10 3 5
** Total does not include the 348 Certificates of Use processed.
Syracuse Planning Commission
The Commission was originally created in 1914 and reorganized in 1968 by Local Law No. 7 of the Syracuse Common Council. The City Planning Commission (CPC) reviews applications for special permits, changes of occupancy, zone changes, street actions and ordinance amendments prior to Common Council action. The Commission also hears requests for planned developments, subdivisions and site and project plan reviews.
Syracuse Planning Commission: Cases By Type 1998-2007
76
6672
6561
65
56
71
60
77
58
49 51
71
60
102
7064
60
45
5 4 26
3 5 52 1 2
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
No
. o
f C
as
es
Zoning Actions Subdivisions & Three-Mile Reviews Street Actions
Syracuse Planning Commission: Action on Cases by Type 2007
Action Cases Approved Denied Pending Closed
Resubdivisions 27 25 1 0 1
Three-Mile Limit 18 15 0 2 1
Appeals from Zoning
Administrator 5 4 1 0 0
Project Site Reviews
3 2 1 0 0
Site Plan Reviews (including tower/
antennae reviews) 12 10 1 1 0
Special Permits 34 32 0 1 1
Historic Preservation
11 10 0 1 0
Street Abandonments
2 2 0 0 0
Zone Change, Text Amendments,
Actions to Council 12 9 0 3 0
Total 124 109 4 8 3
Board of Zoning Appeals The Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals was created by the Common Council in 1958. It has two principal functions: granting variances and exceptions from the terms of the Zoning Rules and Regulations in accordance with provisions of State Law, and to make interpretations with regard to the meaning of the Zoning Regulations. The number of cases processed by the Board of Zoning Appeals in 2007 is summarized below.
Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals: Cases By Type 1993-2007
28
23 22
2724
37
24 25
10
18
28
8
12
7 7
48 4846
3941
2527 27 28
26
38
2325 24 25
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Use Variances Area Variances
Syracuse Zoning Board of Appeals: Action on Cases By Type 2007
Action Cases Approved Denied Pending Closed
Area Variances 25 12 8 2 3
Use Variances 7 6 0 1 0
Interpretations 0 0 0 0 0
Total 32 18 8 3 3
Modification Of Prior Cases
0 0 0 0 0
Time Extensions 0 0 0 0 0
Re-Application Requests
0 0 0 0 0
2007 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Engaged in a “Lean Office” review of office procedures and began implementing improvements and recommendations.
• Administered the Certificate of Suitability program.
• Administered the project site review process.
• Provided zoning review of cases generated by the Certificate of Use program.
• Continued with collaboration on the City Comprehensive Plan and its implementation.
• Continued to make the zoning regulations and other data available online.
• Continued efforts to establish neighborhood and corridor plans.
• Maintained the standard operations of the Zoning Office which included: liaison with Division of Code Enforcement; support of Community Development's neighborhood planning councils;
provision of staff services for the City Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals; and coordination with the various City departments.
• Continued revising and streamlining regulations related to commercial development.
• Developed new regulations to protect residential uses in stressed areas.
• Continued facilitating procedures and pressing to accommodate digital intake of plans, applications and information.
2008 PROGRAM
• Continue implementing “Lean Office” concepts and recommendations.
• Make the Zoning Atlas available to the public online.
• Continue to administer the Certificates of Suitability program.
• Establish and implement a shared database for all cases and Board work.
• Decipher, purchase, and implement the best computer program for inter-departmental communication and relations.
• Facilitate changes in certain parts of the Zoning rules and regulations, such as definitions, signs, parking requirements, special permits, and historic preservation.
• Process plans and cases in accordance with the 2025 Comprehensive Plan.
• Continue to represent the Office of Zoning Administration at inter-departmental Pre-Development meetings.
• Adopt enhanced design guidelines and commercial neighborhood corridor plans to facilitate ongoing development site reviews.
• Establish new guidelines and potentially new zoning regulations affecting outdoor advertising and signage.
• Continue efforts to coordinate communications among the various city departments and other agencies in the review of land use projects.
• Continue involvement in the City Land Use Plan.
• Continue support for enforcement work by the Division of Code Enforcement.
• Support the Department of Community Development’s neighborhood planning councils.
• Provide staff services for the City Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals and Zoning Administration functions, and coordination with various City departments.
• Continue comprehensive planning activities and efforts to establish neighborhood and corridor plans.
• Maintain zoning case files.
• Continue providing input into the Certificate of Use program.
SYRACUSE-ONONDAGA COUNTY PLANNING AGENCY
HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2008
• The Onondaga County Planning Board will continue to implement the 2010 Development
Guide policies through review of municipal zoning and subdivision referrals and review of the County’s Capital Improvement Program, and will lead the County’s comprehensive plan
update.
• The Syracuse-Onondaga County Planning Agency will oversee the development of a Hazard
Mitigation Plan for Onondaga County government and all participating municipalities within the County, as per the federal mandate of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.
• Staff will maintain and enhance building permit, street address, and subdivision files, and track infrastructure expansions in an integrated Land Development Information System.
• Staff will continue its host relationship with the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation
Council (SMTC), and serve on Planning, Executive and various Study Advisory Committees. Studies of particular interest in 2008 include an Emergency Travel Routes Study, culmination of the Route 31 Corridor Study, and the commencement of various planning studies within and outside of the SMTC structure on Interstate 81 in Onondaga County.
• SOCPA will continue to support implementation of the new 911 Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and continue maintenance of the telephone system’s Master Street Address
Guide (MSAG).
• Implementation of recommendations resulting from a consultant-led Lean Office process will continue within the Office of Zoning Administration.
• Zoning Administration and Planning Services staff will continue to offer guidance to various City initiatives, including the creation of a Land Use Plan and design guidelines for
commercial corridors. Planning Staff will also provide a formal study to the City Planning Commission, upon request, relative to billboards and digital advertising.
• GIS staff will continue to distribute and support the county’s digital aerial photography
program (Pictometry), and pursue funding opportunities for an updated image database.
• The Syracuse-Onondaga County GIS web page has received overwhelming and sustained public interest. Data layers will be added and functionality of the web page will be enhanced, including linking the site to the Real Property Image Mate online site.
• The Onondaga County Planning Federation will continue to provide and enhance training opportunities for local planning and zoning board members, as required by a new State law, and for members of the public with an interest in local planning issues.
• SOCPA will enhance its web page within Onondaga County’s web site, to enhance its public presence and to make documents and map products available to local governments and the public.