An exceptional example of an open and honest application of the SEQRA process for a controversial zoning change application may be seen in the following links to the Penfield Baytowne project. After one year with little progress the Supervisor led the Town Board (letter dated 1/19/2010) and denied the application while inviting the applicant to submit site plans to the public and planning board for an honest examination of details.
The project involves a zoning change from R1 to commercial (GB). Penfield Boards showed no attempt to cut corners and circumvent laws meant to ensure thoughtful and appropriate planning. No documents were hidden. The Final Impact Statement will have reasoned responses to over 225 meaningful comments submitted by concerned participants.
Throughout the process the developer was required to submit additional drawings, sketches, site plans and elevations along with many mitigating amendments and changes. Planning Board thoughtfully reviewed a site plan depicting a comparison of what current zoning allows. There were many discussions of current zoning laws and indepth reviews of adopted Comprehensive Plans. There were many site changes, many building designs, many elevation changes, many setback changes. All done honestly by the Planning Board, acting as Lead Agency.
An enormous amount may be learned by looking to those who follow a complete review, serve the public, and have a reputation of doing it right.Baytowne SEQRA Design Mitigation
Throughout the process there was no attempt to manipulate zoning codes or comprehensive plans.
No documents were hidden. The rules of SEQRA were followed with no intent to contravene its intent.
Established land use objectives and goals took precedent over personal agendas.
