town of greenport comprehensive plan...
TRANSCRIPT
TOWN OF GREENPORT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2018
Town of Greenport Comprehensive Plan 2018 Table of Contents: 1. Overview of Greenport Comprehensive Plan 1
A. Mission Statement 1 B. Introduction 2 C. Plan Overview 4 D. Comprehensive Plan Committee and Town Board 6 E. A History of the Town of Greenport 7
2. Town Profile 11
A. Map of Greenport 12 B. Greenport Neighborhoods 13 C. The People of Greenport 15
3. Goals 39 A. Infrastructure 39 B. Town Governance 41 C. Shared Services 42 D. Traffic and Transportation 43 E. Emergency Services 45 F. Recreation and Community 46 G. Economic Development 48 H. Agriculture 53 I. Protect Natural Resources 58 J. Land Use 61 K. Solar Energy Considerations 67
APPENDICES
A.US Census American Community Survey Tables B. Natural Habitat Summary C. Town of Greenport Survey Questionnaire and Results D. Loop Bus for Greenport and Hudson
1
1. Overview of Greenport Comprehensive Plan A. Mission Statement The Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Greenport will help the town and its leaders establish a vision for the future of our community. It will give direction to our town government and improve access to financial assistance. It will help improve and protect our economy and point out our assets, liabilities and resources. It will protect property values and assist the residents of Greenport lead a safer, healthier and more active lifestyle. It will provide present and future town leaders with a consistent starting point for implementing town policies and procedures.
2
B. Introduction If you are a long time resident of the Town of Greenport, you’ve seen quite a few changes in our town over the years. This is especially true if your time here goes back to the time of the original town plan proposal in 1971. At that time our population was about 3,900 people, up from 3,300 in 1960. Forecasts then were for over 7,000 residents by the year 2000! In fact, our population at the time of the 2010 census was 4,100. Trends showed a young population of growing families populating a suburb of Hudson and Albany, with only 9% of the residents being ‘senior citizens’. Instead, now 50% of Greenport residents are aged 47 and over. In 1970, our school district had three elementary schools, including our own Greenport School. Now, just one elementary school exists, with a total school district enrollment of about 1,800 students, pre-K through 12. Most representative of Greenport’s identity is the tremendous development that has taken place along the Fairview Avenue/Route 9 corridor. The majority of Columbia County retail development has taken place in Greenport, partly because of limitation placed on growth by other county towns. Greenport land use laws are supportive of growth patterns initiated by economic development and private investment. It also has a municipal water supply and US 9 is a major commercial artery. Residential growth has largely encompassed apartment complex type buildings for a variety of ages and incomes. In many minds Greenport has become less of a place to live and more of a place to do business. One significant part of Greenport that did not exist in 1970 is the Columbia-Greene Community College campus in the southern end of town. The school has continued to grow and has over 2,000 students and 200 employees. Sometimes overlooked is Greenport’s expanse of scenic rural landscape, which includes Olana Historic Site, Land Conservancy properties, and farms of the southern and southeastern parts of town, some of the most beautiful parts of the county. In 1970, we had 33 farms operating in town. Still not inconsiderable, 18 farming properties are registered here. Most are smaller than in the past, but Greenport retains its agricultural heritage through them. Greenport’s newest
3
farm? A fish farm! Everyone is aware by now of the devastating effects of the loss of town industry due to many factors since the 1960s, including the globalization of the economy and other economic conditions that have affected the U.S. and particularly the Northeast. The many factories and shops that employed so many skilled workers have gone elsewhere or have been replaced by technology. Our culture has changed somewhat and many young people, some going off to college or military service, have moved away to find their fortune independent of their hometown and roots. They seek urban areas, sunnier climates and excitement elsewhere. Because the Town of Greenport has few limits on land use, and has good infrastructure such as water, sewer, roads and highways, electricity in place, and nearby business services, it has become, in many ways, the default place for development, shopping, and complex housing developments that other towns in our area do not want, do not permit, or cannot accommodate. The Greenport's Comprehensive Plan attempts to recognize what our town has become and what changes will continue to take place. It can establish public policy and can become a blueprint for Greenport’s future. How that change and growth is managed, what tolls they take or benefits they provide can only be decided by the town residents and officials.
4
C. Plan Overview The Comprehensive Plan is a written public document that belongs to the community. It identifies the town’s common goals and objectives and offers recommendations on how to achieve them in a general way. It is a guideline for town leaders in operating and developing the community. Use of the plan will ensure that Greenport functions in a consistent manner, looking to fulfill common goals even as leadership changes. It is a framework for decisions and actions taken by town departments and governing boards and informed by citizen input. New York State considers adoption of a comprehensive plan to be a critical tool to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the people of the town and to consider the needs of the people. The Town of Greenport is authorized to develop and adopt a comprehensive plan by New York State Town Law Section 272-a Once a comprehensive plan is adopted, there are several implications:
1. All town land use regulations must be in accordance with the comprehensive plan 2. All plans for capital projects of another governmental agency on land included in the town comprehensive plan must take such plan into consideration. 3. The town as a high chance of success in obtaining grant funding for public projects and initiatives.
It is important to note that this Comprehensive Plan is not a local law. The town board and planning board may have to take actions and change procedures to comply with initiatives set forth. Department policy manuals may have to be updated to conform to some parts of the plan. Some parts of the plan may already be adhered to and appear to be obvious. However, the plan is meant to guide leaders and employees in the future and as change occurs. The Comprehensive Plan is not iron clad final document. It is to be reviewed, amended and updated as needed. Greenport’s plan should be revaluated at least every five years by town officials and decision makers. The town commissioned a Comprehensive Plan back in 1970. Greenport never officially adopted that plan, a huge volume.
5
This plan process began in 2013 by then Supervisor John Porreca. A committee was formed to create a town resident survey, which was completed and distributed to residents. The results were tabulated and the committee moved on the public input meetings. The committee was expanded in 2015. Work has continued throughout that time consisting of necessary research, outreach efforts and consultation with town officials.
6
D. Comprehensive Plan Committee and Town Board Comprehensive Plan Committee Peter Tenerowicz, Chairman Guy Apicella* Richard Concra Jerry Grossman Ray Jurkowski** Carol Peckham David Sullivan Michelle Ublacker* Carolyn West Robert Weinman * Town Board Member ** Town Engineer
Greenport Town Board Ed Nabozny, Supervisor Guy Apicella Clayton Clark Keith Mortefolio Michelle Ublacker Sharon Zempko, Town Clerk
Town of Greenport 600 Town Hall Drive Hudson, New York 12534 (518) 828-4656 Located in Columbia County in New York’s Hudson Valley
7
E. A History of the Town of Greenport The history of Greenport as a town dates back 179 years to 1837. However, much history had already taken place here by that time. In 1609, Henry Hudson, an explorer for the Dutch, sailed up the beautiful river that later bore his name. In this area, he found extensive meadows of clover on land cleared by our first inhabitants, the Indians. These Native Americans were known as Mahikans and were of Algonquin stock. Excavations show that Native Americans were in this area possibly as long ago as 3,000 years ago. By the 1600s, they were a handsome tribe, well established in agriculture, in pottery making from the clay found here, and were adept at making tools and weapons. They were no longer nomadic but did alternate between settlements depending on such factors as the seasons and availability of needed supplies. Prior to Greenport being formed, it was part of Claverack Landing, the tract purchased from the Indians in 1662 by Jan Franz Van Hoesen and confirmed in a grant by the English Governor in May 1667. In 1783, a group of ship owners and merchants from Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Providence and other New England localities, sent representatives to the Hudson River Valley. Here they had hopes of finding a place where they could reestablish their shipping trade and rebuild their lives after suffering severe losses during the Revolutionary War. They decided on the lands known as Claverack Landing, which they purchased from descendants of Jan Franz Van Hoesen. They immediately began arriving and built their homes and started businesses. By April 1785 they had already been granted a charter from the state of New York for making their new city “Hudson”. The new city grew quickly and more lands were added to the original purchase. The growth in the hub of the city was most prevalent, making many things, including paved streets, lighting, police and fire protection, an absolute necessity. Taxes were increased to pay for these improvements. People living outside the hub were not interested in paying these high taxes, which they felt were not beneficial to them. After a period of time, a group of concerned citizens formed a movement in 1837 for separation of the outlying areas from the main part of the city. One of the prominent leaders in the movement was Oliver Wiswall, the mayor of Hudson between 1827
8
and 1828, who, along with a group of others including Jacob R. Hollenbeck, Michael W. Hollenback, Jonas H. Miller, Christian Happy and John Tompkins, contacted the New York State Legislature requesting separation of the lands so that a new town could be formed. Very shortly after, on May 13, 1837, by an act of the New York State Legislature, the Town of Greenport was chartered. The new town surrounded the City of Hudson on three sides with the river on the remaining side. It was an unusual arrangement that would prevent the future growth of the city. The land is rolling and interesting. Mt. Merino, originally called Rorabuck, is a beautiful elevation to the south, probably named for the large of herds of Merino sheep kept there by Oliver Wiswall for their fine wool. A number of hamlets were scattered throughout the town, including Buckley’s Corners, Greendale (Catskill Station), Fountain Head of Greenport Center, Humphreysville, Jonesburgh, Race Place and McKinstryville. In the early 1800s, there were many turnpikes that ran through the town, with the Columbia Turnpike and Union Turnpike being the best known, and also including the Hudson-Livingston Turnpike, the Ancram and Susquehanna Turnpike, the Hudson Branch Turnpike, the Highland Turnpike and the Farmers Turnpike. The early schools included Hook School #4 on Middle Road, Gardner School Joint District #11 on Gardner Road, Delamater School #3 on Fingar Road, Swamp School Joint District #2 on County Route 14, and Paul Avenue School #2, which later became #1. The last was the Greenport Elementary School located on Maple Avenue and Union Turnpike, which was sold in 2015 and redeveloped as The Falls, a large apartment complex. The latest addition to the educational facilities in Greenport is the Columbia-Greene County Community College, which first opened its doors in 1969 and which has continuously expanded into a beautiful campus located near the approach to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. Greenport is very fortunate to have many fine, early homes that are still in excellent condition. Included among these are the Bont House (Route 9G - c. 1725), Blass House (Middle Road - c. 1725), Delamater House (Fingar Road - c. 1740), Milbourn House (Yates Road - c. 1765-85, Tobias Van Deusen House (Spook Rock Road - c. 1742), Kost Ver Loren House (Spook Rock Road - c. 1721). Also included are the Columbia Turnpike Toll House (Route 23B - c. 1799), Job Center or Turtle House (Joslen Boulevard - c. 1780), Black House (Joslen
9
Boulevard - Cc. 17th Century), Ten Broeck House (Route 9 - Cc. 1840), McKinstry House (Route 31 - Cc. 1840), Van Hoesen House (Route 31 - Cc. 1731), Walker House (Route 14 - Cc. 1840), Burgi House (Route 14 - Cc. 1700s), Wiswall House (Mount Merino Road - Cc. 1835), McGiffert House (Hart Road - Cc. 1810), Robinson House (Joslen Boulevard - Cc. 1820), and of course, Olana (Route 9G - Cc. 1870). There are many other fine early homes lining the countryside of Greenport. In the period of between 1840 to and 1860, the growth in the town was mostly due to agriculture, where more acres of farmland were developed than in the rest of the county. During this time, manufacturing in the town included a glue maker, a wagon maker and a lime kiln. In the early 1860’s, quarries were dug from the stone at Becraft Mountain, which was used to make cut stone and for the limestone used for flux in the iron furnaces. Ten years later Frederick W. Jones came along and built the New York Coral and Shell Marble Company and even developed a railroad to carry the product to the river docks. Given the quarries in Greenport the first cement plant in the area -- Portland Cement – was located in Hudson. In 1908, only four years after it first opened, the plant closed and was sold to the Atlas Portland Cement Company. A large new plant was created in Greenport, which was operated by the New York and New England Cement and Lime Company. They started production in 1910, when it was considered to be the most massive plant in the world. About the same time, the Knickerbocker Portland Cement Company began its operations on the north side of Becraft Mountain. The brick industry was also very active in the town, started in 1890 by The Bartlett Brick Company, which later became the Greenport Brick Company. It was located just north of Hudson and was a leading manufacturer of common building brick until it closed in 1931. Much of the product was shipped to New York City. Industry continued to come to Greenport, and the Industrial Tract was developed along Route 66, with the Holbrook Company built first in 1921, followed by the Empire Tube and Steel Corporation the following year, and the V & O Press Company in 1923. The Coons and Marshall Mattress Factory and the Michigan Artificial Ice Products Company were built in 1925. Additional growth brought a number of other businesses, including the Universal Match Company, Hudson Cold
10
Storage and Freezer Company, Mephisto Tool Company, and the Lorbrook Corporation. With the increased population brought by these businesses, the creation of more housing was necessary. The Friss tract off of Routes 23 and 66 offered many beautiful sites, which became homes to many of the area businessmen, including William D. Friss himself. A while later the Lorenz tract was developed on the west side of Fairview Avenue/Route 9, offering many more home sites. The first shopping plaza, Simmons Plaza, was established in 1962 followed by Fairview Plaza in 1969, Port Nine Plaza in 1970, and several mini plazas. In 2008, the grand dame of shopping centers opened at the north end of town, and in the complex are well known chain stores, including Kohl’s Department Store, Lowes Lumber Yard, Wal-Mart, T. J. Maxx, and a variety of smaller stores. Many businesses, including the cement plants, closed or moved away, over recent years, which is typical of businesses everywhere. New businesses, notably ADM Milling, have replaced many of these, which one hopes is evidence of regrowth in Greenport. While this growth, without question, is important, it is always necessary and important, to remember our past and to preserve what we can for the future for all the citizens of Greenport and its surrounding neighbors to enjoy. One example is the Columbia Turnpike West Gate Toll House, which is a rare surviving example of the earliest transportation system that existed here starting in 1799. It can serve as an educational tool to educate our children (and many adults too). Another example is Stone Mill Bridge in the hamlet of Humphreysville. We should strive to protect any footprint of our history and not take the easy way out. The people leading such projects must find solutions to save Greenport's history. Once it’s gone; it’s gone! Respectfully Submitted, David W. Hart Greenport Town Historian
11
2. Town Profile
A. Map of Greenport Please refer to the Map of Greenport Neighborhood Areas on the following page. Greenport’s neighborhoods are listed and described in the next section.
MAP OF GREENPORTNEIGHBORHOOD AREAS
MAP LEGEND
Mt. Merino
0
9 Elks Lane, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601Phone No. (845) 454-3411 Fax No. (845) 473-196264 Green Street - Suite 1, Hudson, New York 12534Phone No. (518) 828-2300 Fax No. (518) 828-3963
MORRIS ASSOCIATES,
5000 5000
1" = 5,000 FT
23
Greenport South
Fairview Ave.
Friss Tract
Joslen North
Lorenz Park
Industrial Tract
23B
9G
9G
23B
66
23
23
9
9
9
13
B. Greenport Neighborhoods Joslen North The Joslen Boulevard area of town is bordered by the Hudson River to the west and the residential corridor west of Route 9 on the east. The corridor contains many open views of the Catskill Mountains, the Land Conservancy trails, the town park and mainly single family homes interspersed with limited development such as the Joslen Commons apartments and Jo-Nel mobile home park.
Lorenz Park Lorenz Park is Greenport’s post WWII suburban housing tract developed in the 1950s and 1960s on the west side of Fairview Avenue/Route 9. It contains mostly single family homes. To the east are the Kipp mobile home park and Apple Meadows apartment complex. These areas, on both sides of Fairview Avenue/Route 9, are the most populated area of Greenport.
Fairview Avenue/Route 9 The Fairview Ave/Route 9 business corridor is perhaps the most identifiable symbol of northern Greenport. Formerly farmland, this stretch of road extends from the Hudson city line all the way to the Town line on the north. It has been heavily developed since the 1950s and contains strip malls, individual businesses, ‘big box’ retail stores, fast food franchises, and gas stations.
Friss Tract Bordered by the City of Hudson and industrial tracts to the north and east, the Friss tract is made up of a mix of older residential neighborhoods, with mainly single family homes, developed from the 1920s through the 1960s, It has the largest residential concentration in Greenport after Lorenz Park.
Mt. Merino Just south of the City of Hudson, begins Mt. Merino, named for the Merino Sheep that grazed there at the town’s inception. Formerly farms and orchards, Mt. Merino has seen substantial new residential development with new roads and upscale homes, and now contains a number of houses on large lots with views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains. .
14
Greenport South Mainly rural and agricultural with spectacular views and open green space, the southern end of town contains the community college, Olana historic site, and homes and small farms along Middle Road and Greendale Road. The area also has a gravel and rock quarry and industrial areas, formerly home to the Atlas cement plant.
Industrial Tract This area, bordered by Merle Ave. and Bridge St, is a remnant of Greenport’s industrial past, where factories, such as V&O Press Co., Universal Match, and the Canada Dry bottling plant, were located. Those plants are now gone, but this commercial area survives. The Columbia County Jail and Public Safety Building, the NYS Department of Transportation facility, and various businesses are located there.
15
C. The People of Greenport
Introduction As of the 2014 U.S. Census, the population of Greenport totaled 4,110. Many lifelong town residents are descendents of the mill and factory workers and the farm families that once made up most of the town. This nucleus is reflected in the make up of our town government and those that are traditionally involved in town affairs. This is changing however, and figures show that over half of the population has moved into the town since 2000. Single-family residences make up 61% of the towns housing stock, and over 68% of those are owner occupied. Mobile home parks house 15% of our folks, and 6% live in apartment complexes with 20 or more units. This last group is sure to grow as more large, multi-unit projects come to town such as The Falls and The Mental Health association project. Over 75% of the 20- to 64-year old age group are in the area work force -- about 56% of our total town population. Over 15% of those aged 65 and older are still laboring to some degree. As our town and county continue to age, and if larger apartment complexes continue to be sited here, Greenport may gain a larger share of retirees and those not in the labor force. Greenport is situated to provide its residents with close and easy proximity to health care, and, as of 2014, nearly all (90%) of our residents had health insurance. This, along with near by shopping and other services, will continue to be an attraction for those moving into our area. Transportation, however, will be a concern as our people age; 2014 figures show that fewer than 10% of residents use public transit or walking to get around (American Community Survey) in car-centric Greenport. (See the US Bureau of Census American Community Survey Tables, included in the appendix to this plan.) Census facts and figures can’t tell the whole story however. Many new part-time and weekend residents are here now, attracted to Greenport because of its location next to highly desirable Hudson and Columbia County in general, and its affordability and convenience. In our 2013 town survey, 7% of respondents said they were part time residents.
16
Changes in Population Between 1960 and 2000, the population of Greenport increased from 3,299 to 4,180.* Between 2000 and 2014, however, it has declined to an estimated 4,110.** Although the overall decrease over those 14 years is only 2%, people 44 years and under decreased by 11%, while adults 45 and over increased by 10%, so that the median age has gone from 42.2 to 46.3.
Between 2000 and 2014 there has been an increase of 5% in adult males and a decrease of 2% in females, although there are still slightly more women (51%) than men (49%). The changes in ethnic groups between those years are especially interesting. While whites have declined by 8% and African American percentages have been steady, the Asian population has grown by 364% (from 56 in 2000 to 260 in 2014). (The largest increases within the Asian group are in those of Chinese and Southeast Asian heritage.) Household owners increased between 2000 and 2010 by only 2% while renters have increased by 9%. * Census data 1960 to 2000, **Census data 2000-to estimated 2014.
17
Jobs and Employment Employment Changes – Ten-Year Trend Between 2000 and 2014 the employed Greenport population dropped from 1980 to 1760 – a decrease of 11%. The number of those who were not employed went from 56 to 186, an increase of 232%! There was also a slight drop of 4% in the civilian labor force as a whole, although the total adult population changed very little. (No residents were counted in the military labor force.)
18
Jobs in the private sector decreased by 17% and self-employment fell by 31%. Only government jobs increased, by 11%.
19
Occupations and Industry – Five-Year Trend The US census provides estimated 5-year data between 2009 and 2014 for a number of key factors that influence Greenport's growth. Between those years, the median income rose from $38,975 to $45,987, an increase of 18%. The job numbers over those five years, however, were not rosy. When looking at increases or decreases in specific occupations by number of employed Greenport residents, the largest increases were in office administration (101), social services (79), law enforcement (67), and personal care (61). The greatest job losses were in food services (-160), sales (-143), building maintenance (-98), computers (-90), and transportation (-81).
20
There are also significant changes over five years in the industries themselves in which Greenport residents work, with increases in healthcare surpassing all other types. Other industries with an increase in the numbers of jobs over five years are utilities, public administration, entertainment, and agriculture. Losses are heavy in many industries, notably manufacturing, retail, food services, wholesale, construction, transportation, and educational services.
Census map http://projects.nytimes.com/census/2010/map See the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey Tables for more details, which are included as an appendix to this plan.
21
D. Greenport: North and South The following information was drawn from our survey results, which had a good statistically relevant return of 20%. They illustrate the differences in interests and attitudes between the two major parts of our town: northern and southern Greenport. The information for the southern areas used responses from residents in Mt. Merino and Greenport South, while the northern areas used responses from those from Joslen, Lorenz Park, Fairview Avenue/Route 9, and the Friss Tract. The survey results showed some interesting differences and what one hopes will be a valuable resource for our town officials and residents. They may help show what many already know; we are one town made up of many parts.
The following charts suggest the differences in attitudes and interests between northern and southern Greenport. In the following narrative, specific town section percentages are mentioned if they show some major difference from the other sections in their region (The response percentages of each town section are available in an Excel spreadsheet).
22
Residency Own or Rent Southern Greenport has a higher number of home owners (96%) than northern Greenport (85%). The highest percentage of renters is along Fairview Avenue/Route 9 (28%).
23
Full or Part-Time Although most people who live in Greenport are full-time residents, 17% of those in southern Greenport are part-timers compared to only 3% in northern Greenport. On the full breakdown, more than a quarter (26%) of Mt. Merino residents are part-timers.
24
Who Works? One of the unexpected results in this survey was the high number of people who didn't work, either because they were retired or for other reasons: over half (54%) of those in northern Greenport and 42% in southern Greenport. The highest percentage was in people who lived on Fairview Avenue/Route 9 (60%). Ten percent of northern Greenport residents work out of the county compared to 20% of those who live in southern Greenport.
25
Only 28% of those in northern Greenport work in the private sector compared to 54% in southern Greenport. Less than a quarter of northern Greenport residents work in the public sector compared to 14% of those in southern Greenport.
26
Use of the Greenport Town Park and Conservation Area Judging from town responses, both the Greenport Town Park and the Greenport Conservation Area are underused, particularly by those in southern Greenport. The Town Park Nearly half (46%) of southern residents never use it and another 29% go there once a year. Although only 20% of northern residents have never been to the park, 34% use it only once a year and only a third (32%) go there at least once a month.
27
The Pavilion is the most popular spot, with 43% of northern and 23% of southern residents claiming to use it. About a third (32%) of northerners and 19% of southerners have been to community day. The playground is the next most popular spot.
28
The Conservation Area The conservation area of the Columbia Land Conservancy is located on the west side of Joslen. It is even less used by Greenport residents on both northern and southern sides than the park, but in general it is a popular destination by people in the entire area for hiking, dog walking, and cross-country skiing. Sixty percent of northerners and 52% of southerners have never gone there, and 19% and 17%, respectively, have used it only annually.
29
Transportation Public Transportation Nearly two thirds of Greenport residents (62% in the north and 65% in the south) have no interest in public transportation. The greatest interest is among those who live on Fairview Avenue/Route 9, where nearly half (48%) of these residents indicated they might use it, with the greatest use (32%) being shopping within town. There was also some general interest on both sides in using it for medical services.
30
Traffic No surprise, traffic is a problem for nearly half (44%) of people who live in northern Greenport, with those who live on Joslen and Fairview claiming the worst traffic problems (48% and 45%, respectively. Only 27% of their fellow residents in the south have a major problem with traffic although 30% see it as an occasional issue.
31
Trash Trash and recycling are handled very differently in the northern and southern parts of Greenport. Southern Greenport deals with their garbage by bringing it to the Columbia County Transfer Station (59%) or by using private pick-up (37%). Over half (55%) of those who live in the northern section rely on the county to pick up their trash. Over half of those in the north (54%) and only about quarter (26%) of those in the south use the town services for brush pick-up.
32
Emergency Services When asked about emergency services, the responses were for the most part very favorable. There were some slight differences in specific areas, so the following charts are broken down into the five different town sections. The only area that indicates a need for change is in police services for the Friss Tract.
33
34
What Greenport Residents Enjoy and What They Need What Residents Most Enjoy The differences between north and south Greenport residents are evident in the choices they made for what they enjoyed most. The top two choices for northern residents were shopping and services (62%) followed by location within the surrounding region (47%) – presumably being near Hudson. The preference for southern residents is clearly Greenport's countryside: top three choices were rural character (77%), open spaces (62%), and farms (54%).
35
36
What Residents Would Like to See More of The responses to this question were fairly unenthusiastic except for the northern Greenport interest (51%) in having more sidewalks and shopping areas. About a third of each group (35% north and 31% south) would like to see more bus service.
37
What Greenport Needs As with what Greenport residents enjoy, what they think the town needs also differs by the south and the north, although there are also some similarities. The rural character of the southern region is evident by their first and third choices: farms (33%) and small markets and farm stands (29%), respectively. Northerner thought restaurants were needed most (42%). However, both sides selected having more single-family homes as their second choice. Assisted living facilities were popular in both the north and south (third choice for northerners at 38% and fourth choice for southerners at 29%).
38
39
3. Goals A. Infrastructure The growth that has occurred in Greenport and adjacent areas in recent decades has put stress and strain on town systems and facilities. The town must continue its work to maintain and improve the infrastructure of the town for our residents and businesses.
Goal: Maintain and Enhance Infrastructure Maintain town roads for safe travel. Ensure adequate roadways and intersections to accommodate
emergency vehicles and fire equipment. Consult with fire and police departments where necessary.
Maintain road shoulders for pedestrian safety. Maintain adequate marking and lighting for traffic and pedestrian
safety. Continue to upgrade water and sewer system. Maintain safe drinking water for all residents. Expand renewable energy and solar power options for town’s power
source. Consider energy efficiency when replacing aging equipment. Maintain and enhance town buildings and facilities for operation and
appearance. Maintain the town park at a high level. Promote best quality broadband access for the entire town. Pursue all funding options available through grants and other
assistance from county, state and federal levels to assist our town with infrastructure maintenance and improvement.
40
Work to improve drainage and storm water runoff from businesses,
streets and development both in-town and from adjacent towns and the city of Hudson through consultation, assistance where feasible and enforcement if needed.
Resolve to emphasize that new development and redevelopment adhere to all storm water runoff and drainage standards in the town code. Consult with the town engineer and, if needed, the town water and highway department to make sure arrangements will be adequate.
Priority: aggressively pursue rebuilding of the drainage system in parts of the town where it is determined to be inadequate.
41
B. Town Governance Ensure that town residents have available to them information about town meetings, operations, initiatives and services.
GOAL: Informative and Transparent Town Government Maintain a current and informative town website. Use newsletters and press releases to announce special meetings
and events. Keep up to date town hall bulletin boards. Establish a ‘new resident’ information sheet. Keep newspaper meeting listings current. Make sure that minutes and agendas of public meetings be
available. Consider a semi-annual newsletter for residents and businesses. Partner with Columbia-Greene Community College to identify
degree fields that could establish an internship program so that students can assist the town with special projects and other needs.
Review ordinances and law on a regular basis for relevancy and applicability to current town needs.
Comprehensive Plan should be reviewed at least every five years by a subcommittee of the town board, planning board or other town officials and residents in order to update and amend the plan as needed.
Source: columbiaplanningguide.com
42
C. Shared Services Town departments, to the extent possible, should share services with other town departments, adjacent municipalities, county and state agencies.
GOAL: Efficient Use of Common Resources Consider shared services for all of the following:
Equipment use and maintenance Purchasing Planning Information Technology Internet and Media Services Police and Fire Departments Emergency services and Planning Recycling and Waste Disposal Waters and Wastewater Youth and Senior Services Employee Training Examine possible benefits of consolidating department functions,
operations and facilities. Establish a Shared Services Committee with a member from
each town department to review opportunities, such as grants, at least semi-annually.
43
D. Traffic and Transportation Our town has become the commercial hub of the county and region. Residents and visitors alike experience traffic congestion at times. The town should work to improve safety, efficiency and convenience for drivers and pedestrians.
GOAL: Improve and Control Multi-Modal Traffic and Transportation Work with the NYS Department of Transportation to provide
innovative solutions to improve vehicular traffic flow along Fairview Avenue/Route 9.
Encourage bike and pedestrian use by transforming existing infrastructure with accommodations for pedestrians and bikes, resulting in safe, accessible and well-connected networks. Connect residential areas to commercial areas.
Appreciate the pedestrian design needs of less mobile populations such as senior citizens, disabled and children.
Promote off street interconnection of commercial properties along Fairview Avenue/Route 9 to reduce the traffic along the thoroughfare.
Promote and support the maintenance of the existing transportation system, including monitoring the system to identify needs and future growth.
Consider reducing speed limits and volumes on local collector and feeder roadways.
Discourage the use of through traffic on local and residential streets by using traffic calming strategies.
Interconnect access roads and traffic lanes within subdivided properties to minimize outlets to streets and highways. Plan for the fewest intersections and use common driveways where possible.
Promote the accessibility and convenience of public transportation options: Work with the county and vendor to market the ‘Loop Bus’ operation between Hudson and Greenport.
44
Priority: Central turning lanes on Fairview Avenue/Route 9;
pedestrian and bikeways on Healy Boulevard, Joslen Boulevard, Fairview Avenue/Route 9; improvement of Joslen Boulevard.
45
E. Emergency Services Considering the role Greenport has in the county and regional economy, with commercial and residential development and growth ongoing, it is important that residents and businesses have adequate police and fire protection.
GOAL: Support Police and Fire Services Police Department Support the Greenport Police Department as an independent entity. Encourage supplemental services by the County Sheriff. Utilize shared services grants to assist with obtaining equipment,
training, funding. Develop a strategic plan. Make sure that adequate staffing levels are maintained.
Fire Department Continue to support an active and engaged town fire department. Develop a strategic plan. Take any necessary steps to encourage and support volunteer
recruitment, such as tax incentives or retirement and health benefits.
Encourage the department to supplement and share resources with neighboring departments, to the extent found reasonable by the town’s fire commissioners.
Encourage and assist the department to consolidate services and facilities to the extent found reasonable by the town’s fire commissioners.
46
F. Recreation and Community As Greenport has developed, it has become car dependent. Our residents, like people everywhere, should be able to benefit from outdoor recreational activities, walkable neighborhoods, and healthy lifestyle options. The town should promote pedestrian access to shopping and work and social activities. Those without cars or who are unable to drive should be able to get to work or stores safely.
GOAL: Provide All Residents with Easy Access to Town Recreational and Healthy Lifestyle Activities Establish sidewalks or shared walkways and bike paths where
possible along Fairview Avenue/Route 9, Joslen Boulevard, and Healy Boulevard.
Operate the town park for multigenerational use. Consider adult sized equipment, wellness stations, climbing structures, and recreational areas for all age groups. Accessibility for all ages and abilities can make the park more attractive for many residents.
Expand, encourage, and promote affiliation with agencies and organizations owning other recreation sites open to the public (e.g., Olana, Columbia Land Conservancy, FASNY Firemen's Home, Columbia-Green Community College, Hudson City School District).
Maintain and/or initiate shared opportunities for Greenport residents to utilize recreational programs in Hudson City School District and surrounding communities (e.g., Stockport, Livingston, Claverack, Germantown).
Identify and promote recreational activities on the town website and public town locations.
Continue popular sunset concert series. Support the Greenport Garden Club, Seniors' organization, and
summer recreation program. Continue to use the Town Park for official town events, such as
community day. Work toward connecting Harrier Hill and the Greenport
Conservation Area hiking trails to the City of Hudson and/or the city waterfront area.
Encourage pedestrian and bike access to the Town Park by establishing a safe and protected crossing between Lorenz Park and the Town Park.
Set aside part of the Town Park for dog walking.
47
Promote and encourage small public parks and walkways as part of any new retirement or multi-unit development.
Priority: Determine key recreational projects and secure funding from outside sources. Utilize a grant writer if necessary and feasible.
48
G. Economic Development Commercial growth has been a prime factor making Greenport one of the leading centers for the county and the region’s economy. If the town is to maintain a reasonable tax structure, an abundance of services and amenities and an acceptable infrastructure, a strong and varied economic base must be maintained. Growth allows for employment opportunities and a predictable tax base.
GOAL: Continue Economic Growth and Economic Health for all residents Work with the Columbia Economic Development Corporation,
Columbia County Industrial Development Agency, and related agencies and real estate professionals to attract appropriate development.
Recognize that any development must be consistent with reasonable expectations of town services to be provided.
Encourage businesses to utilize existing vacant commercial sites. Use incentives if necessary (e.g., tax credits, fee adjustments, job training assistance).
Adopt a plan for growth and development; realize that erratic
growth could be detrimental.
49
Consider time and financial limitations during the review and approvals process.
Consider incentives to attract particularly desirable business and development to the town.
Continue to elicit community input through hearings and public comment process in regards to development proposals.
Balance reasonable quality of life expectations of residents with the desire to develop and grow our town’s economy.
Continue to promote home based occupations and businesses where appropriate. Good broadband services are critical.
Review site plan ordinance and other applicable ordinances for opportunities to assist small business and home based businesses.
$5,303,900
$225,035,670
$15,825,360
$140,024,600
$1,167,100
$56,987,700
$24,227,633
$33,156,059
$7,391,800
Green
port Prope
r*es: Total Assessed Va
lue 2014 Agricultural
Resid
en<a
l
Vacant
Commercial
Recrea<o
n
Commun
ity Service
Indu
stria
l
Public Service
Conserva<o
n
$213,850
$143,550
$27,050
$286,800
$131,500
$472,400
$330,600
$108,600 $3
7,700
Green
port Prope
r*es: M
edian Assessed
Value
Agricultural
Resid
en;a
l
Vacant
Commercial
Recrea;o
n
Commun
ity Service
Indu
stria
l
Public Service
Conserva;o
n
53
H. Agriculture Nearly all agricultural and large vacant land lots (over five acres) are located in Southern Greenport and Mt. Merino (see Table below).
Type of Property Acres Agricultural Working 673.51Agricultural Vacant 295.1Conservation 261.4Conserved Land 519.5Locally Owned Vacant Land 1954.7Vacant Land Owned by Non-Greenport/Hudson Residents 1478.89
All of Columbia County's Agricultural District 7 and parts of Agricultural District 3 are in southern Greenport. Property owners in these areas have:
• Protection from unreasonably restrictive local “anti-farming” laws;
• Protection from nuisance lawsuits; • Limitations on eminent domain, other public projects, or private
citizen construction projects; and • Exemption of the land’s non-agricultural value from local real
property taxes through an agricultural assessment. In the recent survey of Greenport residents, there was a marked interest in farms among those who lived on the southern side, with 54% of them saying that this is what they liked about the town, and a third expressing an interest in having more of them. Only 19% of those who lived on the northern side had any interest in farms, and just 13% thought there should more farms and agriculture.
54
GOAL: Develop a Plan to Provide Information of Large Vacant Properties to Farmers and Landowners Who Seek to Protect Rural and/or Agricultural Integrity While Ensuring Protection of Property Values Be informed on current state of the agriculture economy in
Columbia County (Resource: https://www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/2012/Online_Resources/County_Profiles/New_York/cp36021.pdf) and in New York State in order to determine if there are opportunities in Greenport for greater agricultural development (Resource: Agriculture-based Economic Development in NYS: Trends and Prospects http://cooperatives.dyson.cornell.edu/pdf/EB%202012-11.pdf) .
Contact key individuals in surrounding communities (e.g., Livingston, Copake, Germantown) and local organizations (see numbered list below) to learn about successful approaches, to obtain grants, and to make partnerships for protecting farmland and rural areas.
Investigate agritourism, which involves any agriculturally based operation or activity that brings visitors to a farm or ranch (Resource: Promoting Tourism in Rural America http://pubs.nal.usda.gov/sites/pubs.nal.usda.gov/files/tourism.htm).
Identify programs to help farmers improve the business of farming (Resource NYC Agriculture and Markets http://www.agriculture.ny.gov and Northeast Farm Access http://nefarmaccess.com/what-we-do/).
55
Other resources for assisting the town and present and potential
farmers including the following. 1. Columbia County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board
(www.columbiacountyny.com/CCAFPB/index.html) 2. New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Guidance Documents (https://www.agriculture.ny.gov/AP/agservices/agdistricts.html)
3. Cornell Cooperative Extension (https://www.ccecolumbiagreene.org)
4. Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District (http://www.ccswcd.org)
5. Columbia Land Conservancy (http://clctrust.org)
Ag 1
Ag 3
Ag 4
Ag 6
Ag 10
Ag 9
Ag 1Ag 7
Ag 5
Ag 2
Ag 8
Ag 10
590000
590000
600000
600000
610000
610000
620000
620000
630000
630000
4650
000
4650
000
4660
000
4660
000
4670
000
4670
000
4680
000
4680
000
4690
000
4690
000
4700
000
4700
000
MAP PROJECTIONUTM Zone 18, NAD83 metersO10,000 0 10,0005,000 meters
5 0 54 3 2 1 miles
COLUMBIA COUNTYNew York State Dept ofAgriculture and Markets
Agricultural Districts2010
DISCLAIMERThis is a general reference to AgriculturalDistrict boundaries; not a legal substitutefor actual tax parcel information.
Boundaries as certified prior to January 2010
Open Enrollment Annual Additions are notincluded in this data. Check with countyagencies to confirm the status of individualparcels.
MAP SOURCE INFORMATION
Contains data copyrighted by theNYS Office of Cyber Security
Base Map: state250_bw.tif 1998Scale: 1:250,000; County boundariesimported from the file nyshore.e00 from theNYSGIS Clearinghouse website:<http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us)>
Map created at Cornell IRIS (Institutefor Resource Information Sciences)<http://iris.css.cornell.edu> for the NYSDepartment of Agriculture and Markets
Agricultural Districts boundary data isavailable at CUGIR (Cornell UniversityGeospatial Information Repository)website: <http://cugir.mannlib.cornell.edu>
KEY
Ag. District 6
Ag. District 7
Ag. District 8
Ag. District 9
Ag. District 10
Ag. District 1
Ag. District 2
Ag. District 3
Ag. District 4
Ag. District 5
CERTIFIED 7/15/2008AncramAusterlitzCopakeGallatinHillsdaleTaghkanic
DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 2CERTIFIED 7/15/2008KinderhookStuyvesant
DISTRICT 4CERTIFIED 11/19/2001ClermontGallatinGermantownLivingstonTaghkanic
DISTRICT 5CERTIFIED 7/11/2005StockportStuyvesant
CERTIFIED 11/19/2001ClaverackGhentGreenport
DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT CERTIFICATIONSand TOWNS
DISTRICT 6CERTIFIED 7/11/2005ClaverackCopakeHillsdaleTaghkanic
DISTRICT 7CERTIFIED 7/11/2005Greenport
DISTRICT 8CERTIFIED 7/11/2005AusterlitzGhentHillsdale
DISTRICT 9CERTIFIED 7/11/2005CanaanNew Lebanon
DISTRICT 10CERTIFIED 7/11/2005AusterlitzCanaanChathamGhentKinderhookStockportStuyvesant
Town ofGreenport
State Route 9H
Route
66
Route
217
State Route 9G
Route 9H and 23
State Hwy 9
G
Fairview Ave
State H
wy 23
B
State
Route
66
State
Route
23
State
Hwy 2
3
US Hwy 9
Gree
n St
State Hwy 6
6
Union
Tpke
State Route 23
US Hwy 9
Lege
nd Farm
s (20
11)
Prim
e farm
land
Farm
land o
f stat
ewide
impo
rtanc
e
58
I. Protect Natural Resources Greenport’s natural resources are important to the character and livelihood of its residents, visitors and neighboring towns. Protection and conservation of private and common properties is essential to the long-term well being of our town. The tourism economy, agricultural, recreation, and property values can benefit by smart stewardship. The town’s forests, wetlands, fields, and streams help to provide a habitat for fish and wildlife, provide clean air and drinking water, filter pollutants from storm water, minimize flooding and offer outdoor beauty and recreation. Please see the habitat summary entitled Natural Areas and Wildlife in Your Community for more details, which is included as an appendix to this plan.
GOAL: Identify, Conserve and Protect Natural Assets and Landscape Features, While Managing Development and Land Use for Our Citizens Recognize the need to protect and conserve Claverack Creek and
Taghkanic Creek as well as the Hudson River shoreline. Doing so will reduce erosion and contamination, lessen flood impacts, enhance water quality and provide human benefits such as fishing and boating.
Minimize and manage impervious surfaces as new development occurs in order to control storm water runoff to those waterways and associated feeder creeks. Storm water is a source of pollution.
Consider adopting a local storm water management ordinance in order to establish and enforce a storm water pollution prevention plan. It could also address localized flooding that occurs during severe weather events and properly direct routine discharges.
Recognize important resources shared with neighboring communities, including Claverack, Livingston, Stockport, and Hudson. Coordinate with adjacent towns so that development or changes in adjoining properties do not negatively affect Greenport's resources. Identify and avoid changes in one place that may impact others.
If subdivisions are proposed, encourage or require, when needed, cluster development to minimize new paved surfaces and the resulting runoff and drainage, maximize open space and conserve natural landscape and habitat.
59
Promote and exercise care in reviewing site plans related to steep slope features, extensive forest clearing and similar landscape changing activities.
Require buffer zones when development is planned next to forestland, open space, streams and creeks or wetlands.
Consider establishing a town wide natural resource inventory using local resources and organizations and updating it on a regular basis.
Encourage or require the use of natural landscaping and preservation of vegetation when reviewing site plans for the purpose of drainage control and appearance.
Protect the town’s water supply source area. Adhere to and review Chapter 96 of the town code and consider any other means to make sure the town continues to have an adequate and safe water supply.
Add a natural resources map to the town's website. When needed, utilize existing local resources such as the Cornell
Cooperative Extension and Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District.
GREENECOUNTY
COLUMBIACOUNTY
Figure 1: Regional Context of Greenport, NY
±
Hudson
0 4 8 Miles
Legend
Significant Biodiversity AreasStockport Creek Watershed
Municipal Boundary
Catskill Mountains
Hudson Valley Limestoneand Shale Ridge
Upper Hudson River
Greenport Claverack
Athens
Stream
County Boundary
Direct drainage to Hudson River
Ki nde
rh
ook
Cr
Claverac
k Cr
Taghkanic Cr
Hud
son Riv er
This map shows the location of the Town of Greenport, Columbia County in relation to its major watersheds and significant biodiversity areas. This map was produced as part of a Habitat Summary for the town. For more information, please contact NYSDEC's Hudson River Estuary Program Conservation and Land Use Specialist Ingrid Haeckel at (845)256-3829 or [email protected]. http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5094.html
Data Sources: NYS Department of Environmental Conservation NYS Office of Information Technology Services New York Natural Heritage Program US Geological Survey
Map Created 2016
Livingston
Stockport
Catskill
61
J. Land Use Greenport is a diverse town and includes Columbia County’s largest business and suburban housing areas in the three northern Greenport areas :Joslen North, Fairview/Lorenz Park, and the Friss Tract. Southern Greenport is a larger land mass and is comprised of farms, vacant land and open scenic vistas, some of the most beautiful rural features. Although common goals exist for both sections of town, each one could have objectives that would be beneficial for commercial or residential development or rural preservation.
GOAL: Require new development or significant redevelopment to be compatible with the setting, scale and use of the area for which it is proposed. General Objectives for Greenport Encourage business growth to enhance economic development
where business and industry already exist. Development in rural and residential areas will maintain rural and
residential character. Compatible rural and agricultural businesses can be accommodated.
Consider adjacent property use and history before development. Consider development impact on quality of life of area residents. Consider financial impact on property owners and businesses. Avoid restrictions on individual residences that pose no harm to
neighbors. Ensure that local roadways and intersections can accommodate any
increase in traffic due to growth and development. Ensure protection of natural resources and water supply with any
new development. Identify areas that can be used for large residential developments.
Specific Objectives for Northern Greenport (Joslen, Fairview, Lorenz, Friss Tract) Maintain suburban residential housing areas by buffering single
family residents from commercial development and apartments. Encourage continued development along Route 9/Fairview Ave.
62
New businesses or shopping centers along the Route 9 corridor must be considered in the context of their proximity to existing neighborhoods, their projected activity levels, and their affect on adjacent businesses and homes. They also must be buffered from adjoining properties and a balance of growth and livability achieved.
Provide incentives to new and existing businesses for improving aesthetics (plantings, landscaping, attractive storefronts and signs, lighting, etc.)
Specific Objectives for Southern Greenport and Mt. Merino areas. Maintain rural character by limiting size and proximity to each other
of major housing and commercial development, including solar fields and storage facilities.
Encourage cluster style development plans where applicable for multi-unit projects.
Collect information from key individuals and organizations in surrounding communities who have been successful in preserving the rural nature of their own communities.
Encourage industrial and commercial development on Route 23B to Spook Rock Rd. and Route 9 South as it already exists with usable infrastructure. However, consider limiting size and height of buildings in proximity to our Catskills and valley view shed and open space natural areas, particularly close to the road frontage.
As vacant land and agricultural land is converted to other use, the rural density, landscape character, and environmental value of the area should be preserved.
63
How future development could occur: Over the years, Greenport has developed into a many faceted town with areas of farms, industry, retail shopping, residential neighborhoods and rural open space. Our resident survey asked the following questions which yielded these results: ‘In regards to continuing development, which of the following statements most closely match your opinion’ (respondents could choose more than one answer): The town planning board and ordinances adequately control
development…43% The development process needs to be improved…33% Areas of the town that have been settled into
residential/commercial/industrial areas should be maintained as such in regard to future development within those areas…35%
Town should consider land use zoning….29% Without zoning, the town has, in effect, ‘self zoned’ to a large degree. The days of sprawling single family residential areas or large industrial facilities coming to town are probably in the past. The future looks to bring more apartment type complexes, multi-family housing and commercial mixed use development to the area. As our town and county continues to age, senior housing and perhaps assisted living type of facilities are likely.
64
The town must consider the best and most appropriate areas for those situations and must take into consideration how they affect current property owners and future inhabitants. Developers look for predictability and infrastructure, property owners, both buyers and sellers, look for protections and the same predictability that insures investment in our town and quality of life for our residents. One way Greenport could guide future development while avoiding strict controls is to consider some basic land use policies.
65
Land Use Designation and Planning Areas currently settled into residential single family and small
multi-family, mixed commercial , industrial, agricultural or rural residential, retail shopping plaza, large apartment complex, conservation lands or other use should be clearly defined in terms of future land use, quality and character of development, geographic location and relationship to public services and infrastructure.
Growth in these areas should continue to be organized around existing use and character keeping in mind the ability of the town to provide services and accommodate growth. The planning board should take current character and use into consideration.
A Land Use Committee should be created by the town board to
advise the town on where and how future development should take place within the town.
• An official town map of land use could be created and used to guide future growth and development.
• Large scale development projects should only take place in
areas where traffic concerns and community compatibility are taken into consideration. This would be a way for the town to be responsive to community and property owner’s concerns.
• Residential neighborhoods such as the Friss Tract, Joslen
Blvd., Lorenz Park and Arthur Ave. should be preserved as such.
• Commercial use should be steered towards those areas
already established as commercial and/or mixed use.
• The intent is better coordination and planning for future development and meeting goals established in the comprehensive plan.
Without a basic zoning law in place, Greenport planners, developers and land owners will have to cooperate and work together for the town to succeed in these areas.
1%
14%
10%
2%1%
3%
Green
port Prope
rty Parcels
Agricultural
Resid
entia
l
Vacant Land
Commercial
69%
Commun
ity/Recreation
Indu
stria
l
Public
67
K. Solar Energy Considerations
The benefits of solar energy are well known. The power source, the sun, is a renewable and non polluting energy producer. Solar power helps communities reduce their power bills and lessen dependency on fossil fuels. It is a clean and abundant resource with lots of public policy advantages.
Greenport, without tall buildings and lots of open terrain, has an environment ready for solar installations. The town, with reasonable regulation and siting guidelines can reap the benefits of solar power for businesses, residents and town operations.
GOAL: Encourage and facilitate solar power use for the town and its residents.
• Appoint a solar energy contact person to receive training, updates on
policy and interaction with agencies such as NY-SUN so the town can stay up to date on the latest solar strategies and technology.
• Ongoing review and implementation of the town’s Solar Regulation ordinance #103.
• Recognize that current vacant buildings, parking lots and former industrial sites in town could become large solar energy systems both ground mounted and roof top mounted. This could be an important economic development strategy.
• Orient new development or large scale redevelopment for optimum solar collection.
• Consider a ‘Solar Energy’ fact sheet for distribution to site plan applicants.
• Consider solar energy use for town buildings and as new town buildings are planned (town garage, etc.)
• Maximize any tax or pilot benefits for the town available outside of the tax deferrals in place by current law.
68
• Recognize that land use conflicts could occur surrounding agriculture, forest land and adjacent building activity. Consult with other towns and solar users for problem solutions and mitigation.
The Agriculture and Markets Law considers solar systems to be ‘on farm’ equipment when installed on agriculturally assessed land and are protected under Agriculture District Law. These systems are protected from ‘overly restrictive’ regulations which are generally not part of the Greenport ordinance. They are a ‘Type II’ action for SEQRA purposes.
• Consider the least productive farm land for solar installation if possible with consultation with the land owner.
• Consider natural land formation, drainage and forest land in the siting and planning process.
• There may be a penalty if agriculturally assessed farm land is converted to solar use for off site consumption. Each case is different.
Greenport’s Solar Energy Systems law, Chapter 103, recognizes the many considerations to be evaluated and many of the objectives for safe and productive use of solar equipment for our residents and developers.
The community can benefit by providing lower cost energy, providing jobs, saving on fossil fuels, and reducing pollution. As solar power continues to mature and develop, so should the towns plans and policies.
Solar Resources available, among others:
NY-SUN…NYSERDA Programs
The Solar Foundation.org
Interstate Renewable Energy Council
Variety of local solar installers and parent companies may provide no cost consultation and updates regarding advances in technology.