11/13/2024 PB Minutes

TOWN OF BETHLEHEM

Planning Board Public Hearing

November 13, 2024

Minutes

 

Present: Alecia Loveless, Veronica Morris, Sally Fitzgerald, and Sean Gawlik

Absent: Linda Moore, Kevin Roy, and Jerry Blanchard

 

Alecia called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.

 

The first order of business was to review a request for an extension submitted by Herb Lahout for his multi-family dwelling unit on Situ Rd. Veronica Morris read the letter submitted by Mr. Lahout. There was no further discussion.  Sean Gawlik motioned to approve the request for extension for Lahout Apartments. Veronica seconded the motion. All Planning Board members voted in favor.

 

The Conservation Commission Chair, Cheryl Jensen is before the Planning Board requesting the Planning Board sponsor a warrant article to update the lighting and sign ordinances in order to improve public safety. Cheryl introduces Doug Arion, a local scientist, and the two discuss the merits of the updated ordinance.

 

Veronica Morris motions that the Planning Board sponsor a warrant article to change both the light and sign ordinances as proposed by the Conservation Commission. Sally Fitzgerald seconded the motion with all members present voting in favor.

 

ZBA Chair Andrea Bryant is before the Planning Board requesting a warrant article that removes Hotels and Motels from the Public Accommodation definition and makes them a separate use by Special Exception only.  The ZBA feels this will better serve the town.

 

Veronica Morris motioned to adopt Hotels and Motels as otherwise specified as a special exception in all districts as a warrant article. Alecia Loveless seconded the motion. All members voted in favor.

 

The clerk presented a request for a refund from HINEC for all unheard applications. Alecia motioned to refund HINEC the unused funds. Sean seconded the motion. Alecia, Sean, and Sally voted in favor of the refund. Veronica Morris was opposed. Motion passed 3-0.

 

The Board discussed the upcoming meetings schedule. It was decided not to hold a meeting the night before Thanksgiving. It was also decided to hold the two December meetings on 12/11/24 and 12/18/24.

 

Sean Gawlik motioned to adjourn, Sally seconded, all in favor.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Dawn Ferringo

Planning and Zoning Board Clerk