Town of Putnam Project Review

Town of Putnam
123 Lower Road
PO Box 95
Putnam Station, NY  12861

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Planning Board Clerk 518-547-8317 (phone and fax)
 
Town of Putnam Topics of Interest

CALDER

CATLIN

CONNOR

ELIOPOULOS

FAETH

FISHER

FREUD

GRENNON

HANDLEY SUBDIVISION

 HARDING

JOHNSON

MORGAN

ROYAL ANCHORAGE

SMITH

 WHITE

CALDER (UPDATED 5/5/10)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes an addition to an existing residence at 5142 Bayview Way on Dark Bay (12-4-16).  Proposed addition will add 1/2 2nd floor addition and add 1/2 basement for storage.  Current foundation on piers and foundation will be enclosed with a height of 6-1/2 ft.  Roof line will be raised approximastely 7 feet with possible impact to neighbors.  Number of bedrooms will remain at two.  Two large trees are proposed to be removed.  New on-site wastewater treatment system proposed with peat filters to be located 240 feet from lake.  Slowing of stormwater is anticipated.  Planning Board determined project was Type II Site Plan Review.   

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns about the need for site plans for the proposed on-site wastewater treatment system, need to size the OWTS for future bedrooms (addition) and incorporate stormwater management, recommended rain gardens. 

Waterkeeper Comments: Please refer to the Lake George Waterkeeper comment letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board, February 2010.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board determined the application was Type II Site Plan at the February 10, 2010 meeting.  The Planning Board requested information regarding the peat system, information on the building height and roof line and recommended stormwater management (Fact Sheets from the FUND/Waterkeeper were provided).  The Planning Board scheduled a public hearing for March 10, 2010 at 7:00PM.  The application was discussed at the public and the Waterkeeper and neighbors commented.  The Planning Board expressed concern about the stormwater runoff and location of the septic absorption field in the driveway cul-de-sac.  Tabled the application for additional information.  The applicant submitted temporary and permanent stormwater management controls and proposed to relocate the absorption field to a more level location with a greater setback to the lake at the April 14, 2010 Planning Board meeting.  The Planning Board approved the Site Plan application with conditions:  1) relocate absorption field to specified location with an engineered system; and 2) provide stone trench at bottom of driveway and parking area for stormwater management.

CATLIN (UPDATED 6/18/09)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes the construction of a new home on a vacant lot on Black Point Road (4.51-1-28.3).  Proposed house will be 26'x38' (1480 sf), 3 story high with a 50' setback from the lake.  The lot will be serviced by the new Black Point Sewer District.  No information was provided regarding proposed stormwater management.  There is an existing stream flowing through the property with potential wetlands.  The Planning Board expressed concerns about the lot as well as several neighbors.  There is a claim the stream has been diverted onto a neighbors property.    

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns about the existing stream and ability of the small lot to support the proposed development while accomodating stormwater management.

Waterkeeper Comments:

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board accepted the application and deemed the application as a Type II action.  The Planning Board required the applicant to contact the DEC, APA and LGPC and determine if the proposed side setback is adequate to service the side of the house.

 CONNOR (UPDATED 5/28/09)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes the construction of a new home on an existing footprint at 5163 Sagamore Rd.  The house is located 130 ft from Lake George.  The applicant proposes 2 bedrooms (same as existing) and will be utilizing the existing on-site wastewater treatment system.  The system has been accepted by Bill Ball, Town of Putnam Code Enforcement Officer.  The applicant has received a Stormwater Permit for a minor stormwater plan from the Lake George Park Commission  (5346-17-07).  The stormwater system proposed a 10'x10'x1.5 sediment trap for the driveway and nothing is indicated for the house.   

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper concerns included:  the lack of stormwater management for the house and additional information regarding the existing on-site wastewater treatment system, including design flows and certification of the system. 

Waterkeeper Comments: Please refer to the Waterkeeper comment letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board May 2009.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board held a public hearing on May 13, 2009 and approved the project.

ELIOPOULOS SUBDIVISION (UPDATED 5/20/10)

Project Summary: The applicant is seeking a six lot subdivision of the point where Bythewood is located on the south shore of Gull Bay.  The total areage is approximately 8.5 acres with nearly 1/2 mile of shoreline, including Skerrey Point.  The land is designated Low Intensity Use on the lake side of Gull Bay Road and Rural Use on the east side of Gull Bay Road.  The proposed lots will be serviced by on-site wastewater treatment systems and wells.  All lots will have lake access, some with easements through other properties.   DECEMBER 2009 - The applicant revised the application for a five lot subdivision, similiar to the previous submission which was denied except for the removal of one lake side lot.  The revised application was presented at the May 2010 Planning Board meeting.  It was determined the subdivision was a 5-lot subdivision including the Blythewood property.  

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper is concerned about the concentration of development on the lake side of Gull Bay Road, six lots proposed (four new lots and the existing Blythewood and carriage house).  The proposed on-site wastewater treatment systems are proposed on steep slopes with marginal soils in close proximity to the lake.  There is concern about previously approved boathouses on the southeastern point of Skerrey Point previously approved by the Lake George Park Commission.  No stormwater management information was provided on the site plan submitted.  DECEMBER 2009 - The majority of the previous comments of the Waterkeeper remain for the application:  concern about the stream corridor setbacks; need for wetland delineation;  no stormwater management; on-site wastewater treatment design; and lack of a water supply for Lot 2.

Waterkeeper Comments: Please refer to Lake George Waterkeeper comment letter to Town of Putnam Planning Board December 2008.

Next Meeting: A public hearing was held on December 8, 2008 by the Town of Putnam Planning Board.  There were significant issues raised by the Planning Board members and the Waterkeeper.  The Planning Board closed the public hearing.  At the January 14, 2009 meeting, the Town of Putnam Planning Board denied the Eliopolous subdivision application based on non compliance with the Town's septic system requirement, failure to submit a stormwater management plan and the impact of the development to the character of the land.   REVISED 5 LOT APPLICATION:  Application was tabled at the Deecember 9, 2009 Planning Board meeting by the applicant.  Application will be discussed at the May 12, 2010 Planning Board meeting.  At the May 2010 meeting, the Planning Board accepted the application and determined the application ot be a major subdivision (despite the fact it is 4 new lots) since all proposed lots do not front on a public right-of-way.  The Board expressed concern about the small lake front lot (approximately 5,000 sf) created from lake access for the proposed lot east of Gull Bay Road. 

 ELIOPOULOS (UPDATED 11/2/09)

Project Summary: The applicant is seeking an after the fact site plan approval for a expansion of the existing Gatehouse located on Gull Bay Road.  Constructed had started on a 12' wide deck on 2 sides of the house which did not comply with the original proposed plans and appears to exceed the allowable 25% expansion of an existing structure.  Planning Board discussed the adequecy of the existing septic system and where it was located.  Applicant claimed it was installed 18 years ago for a 3-bedroom house.  Planning Board the need to review the septic system since the project did not increase the wasteflow or the number of bedrooms.

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns about the existing septic system location and adequacy and the need to certify septic systems when projects are proposed on a site.

Waterkeeper Comments: No comments submitted

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board approved the proposed site plan 4-1 at the October 14, 2009 Planning Board meeting.

Project Summary: The applicant proposes an approximate 800 sf addition to an existing residence along with a screened porch at 5183 Sagamore Road.  The existing strucutre has a 115 foot setback and with the porch addition, the setback will be reduced to 103 feet.  The addition will increase the number of bedrooms from 2 to 3 requiring an upgrade to the existing non-compliant on-site wastewater treatment system.  The applicant proposes a gravelless absorption system.  This initial stormwater plan prepared for the Lake George Park Commission was denied and an engineer has been hired.  A stormwater management plan was submitted to the Lake George Park Commission by the October 14, 2009 Planning Board meeting and a permit was expected by October 16, 2009.  In addition, the site plan was modified to keep traffic off the septic system.   

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper concerns included concerns about the proposed location of the absorption field under the parking area and the need for stormwater infiltration.

Waterkeeper Comments:  Provided verbal comments at a September 9, 2009 public hearing regarding protection of the on-site wastewater treatment system from traffic.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board held a public hearing on September 9, 2009.  The public hearing was closed.  The application was tabled pending the submission of a stormwater management plan.  The Town of Putnam Plannning Board granted approval at their October 14, 2009 meeting condition upon submission of the Stormwater Management Permit from the LGPC and no traffic over the septic system. 

FREUD (UPDATED 11/20/09)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes a two-lot subdivision of a 5 acre parcel on the west side of Dark Bay.  One lot would be 2-1/4 ac with an existing house, boathouse and workshop and the second would be 2-3/4 ac.  The Planning Board expressed concern about the creation of a landlocked parcel, according to the interpretation of the Town Code, each lot must have frontage on a public right-of-way (Town owned or maintained road).  The access to the proposed lots would be through an existing easement.  Soil investigations were provided but not certified.  A non-jurisdictional letter has been received from the Adirondack Park Agency.  October 2009 - The Planning Board consulted the Town Counsel regarding the required frontage on a public road and it was stated there is a need to provide safe access for emergency vehicles.  The applicant requested a waiver from the required frontage on a public road.  Additional information was provided regarding the percolation tests and setbacks to the lake which was 215 feet. 

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns about the ability to provide a compliant wastewater treatment system as well as stormwater management for all development, existing and proposed.  The Lake George Waterkeeper recommended site plan review for any future development as well as locating existing wastewater treatment systems. 

Waterkeeper Comments:  Please refer to Lake George Waterkeeper comment letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board Novermber 2009.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board tabled the application at the September 10, 2009 penfding additional information - justification of right-of-way or waiver request and ceritifed percolation tests. At their October 14, 2009 meeting, the Town of Putnam Planning Board granted a waiver the requirement for frontage on a public road and scheduled a public hearing for November 11, 2009.  At the November 11, 2009 public hearing, information was provided on the existing septic system which was installed in 1984.  The Town of Putnam Planning Board approved the subdivision 6-0 with the condition future development would require site plan review. 

GRENNON (UPDATED 6/25/10)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes to replace the existing one story camp with a two story house at 4042 Beach Lane (11.20-2-11).  The proposal is to utilize the same size footprint and add a second story.  The applicant owns two adjacent small parcels with a total width of 125'.  The existing on-site wastewater treatment system (OWTS) consists of a septic tanks and laterals.  The orignial sketch plan submission was going to be changed from placing the house on the existing footprint.  The applicant resubmitted a plan for the November 2009 Planning Board meeting.  The proposed residence was relocated to the south east portion of the property accessed by an existing dirt drive.  A new on-site wastewater treatment system was proposed with an Eljen absorption field.  The proposed OWTS would only provide a 50' separation to the proposed on-site well and 75' to the neighboring properties' wells.  November 2009 Planning Board meeting - The Planning Board discussed concerns regarding the separation between wells (on site and neighboring) to the proposed septic system.  The Planning Board stated they were in favor of the redevelopment of the site but issues on the OWTS needed to be resolved with Department of Health regulations.  MAY 2010 - The applicant reappeated in front of the Planning Board with a similiar plan that was presented in November.  It was stated the separation to proposed well was maximized and the well would be protected with casing to bedrock.  It was stated that it was the best that could be done on the pre-existing, non-conforming lot.        

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper concerns included:  the lack of stormwater management for the house, information regarding the proposed OWTS and extent of grading and disturbance for the site.  The Lake George Waterkeeper reviewed the November 2009 submission and expressed concens about the reduced setback to wells on the property and for the neighbors and proper separation to the seasonal high groundwater.  The Lake George Waterkeeper recommended enhanced treatment units for improved wastewater treatment.  The Waterkeeper provided information to the applicant regarding the proposed enhanced systems at the Novermber 2009 Planning Board meeting.  For the June 2010, the Waterkeeper expressed similiar concerns regarding the on-site wastewater treatment system as well as the need for stormwater management for the site development to reduce downstream runoff problems experienced on Link Way. 

Waterkeeper Comments:  Please refer to the Lake George Waterkeeper comment letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board November 2009 and June 2010. 

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board suggested the applicant finalize the sketch plan and return with additiona information on the proposed house location, off-street parking and OWTS.  At the November 11, 2009 meeting, the Town of Putnam Planning Board tabled the application requesting the applicant to obtain a waiver from the Department of Health on separation requirements between wells and OWTS and to review the installation of enhanced treatment systems.  MAY 2010 -  The Planning Board reviewed the application and stated the applicant "Did the best he could" to provide the separation and protection of the proposed well.  The Board recommended the applicant request a waiver from Section 8.030 regarding separation requirements for wells and this was granted.  The Board asked about stormwater and felt a plan would be requried.  The Planning Board scheduled a public hearing for Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at 7:00PM. 

HANDLEY SUBDIVISION (UPDATED 2/16/10)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes a 8 lot subdivision on 21 +ac. - 7 developed, 6 new building lots and 2 lake access (1 common).  One lot has a pre-existing building.  The property is divided by the Town of Putnam/Ticonderoga line as well as the Washington/Putnam County line.  There will a common lot for access to Lake George.  The project will require APA permit as well as permit from the Lake George Park Commission for the dock complex and stormwater management.  The applicant states there is a 1500 sf footprint, 2-story limit on building size.  Development is proposed along the west side of Black Point Road with all driveways.  Lots will be accessed through common driveways to service two lots.  There will be common stormwater management systems consisting of rain gardens and a wet meadow with discharge under an access drive in the common lot. A large area of the existing meadow is proposed to be undisturbed.  The common lot will have parking for access to the lake along with an existing barn that will be converted to a club house.  A dock complex is proposed but no information has been supplied.  Wastewater will be handled through connections to the Black Point Road Sewer District.  Water supply will be on-site wells.         

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns on the sketch plan about the ability fo the site to accomodate stormwater management and impacts to emergent wetlands on the shoreline, which were determined to be along the shoreline for a previous subdivision to the west.   Regarding the Preliminary Plan, the Waterkeeperr had concerns about the following:  1) density calculations;  2) specific information on the construction of the stormwater system; 3) Planting Plan;  4) Buffer along the existing stream;  5) Buffer along the wetlands; 6) Information on the proposed dock complex;  7) Wetland information along the shoreline; and 8) Individual site plan review for the lots.   

Waterkeeper Comments: Please refer to the Lake George Waterkeeper letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board, February 2010.

Next Meeting: The applicant provided a sketch plan discussion to the Planning Board in June 2009.  The Preliminary Plan was reviewed at the Town of Putnam Planning Board at the February 10, 2010 meeting.  The Planning Board expressed concerns about:  1) more permanent sanitary facilities at the common lot;  2) deed covenant information;  3) 1500 sf maximum footprint;  4) Lot 1 no dwellings;  5) no specified width or ROW on common driveway;  6) emergency vehicle access; and 7) site plan review for individual lots.  There were numerous comments by public.  The application was tabled to a later date for updates from the applicant. 

HARDING (UPDATED 8/12/10)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes renovations to an existing camp constructed in 1911 at 153 Moosewood Way in Glenburnie.  The applicant is proposing to extend the roofline and add a bedroom.  The Town of Putnam Planning Board requested a Site Plan review and the applicant stated the expansion was below 25% and therefore, did not require Site Plan Review.       

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns regarding the need for an evaluation of the existing on-site wastewater treatment system and the ability to accomodate an additional bedroom.  The Waterkeeper also recommended the implementation of stormwater management.

Waterkeeper Comments: Please refer to the Lake George Waterkeeper letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board, February 2010.

Next Meeting: At the January 13, 2010 meeting, the Town of Putnam Planning Board passed a resolution the project could proceed without a Site Plan review.  However, the Code Enforcement Officer would need to approve the OWTS prior to the issuance of a Ceritifcate of Occupancy.  At the August 11, 2010 Planning Board meeting, the Planning Board authorized sending a letter Harding requesting a copy of the Certificate of Occupancy and the certification of the septic system for four bedrooms since the dwelling has been occupied over the summer.

 JOHNSON (UPDATED 5/28/09)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes the construction of a 1500 sf house in the Royal Anchorage subdivision (12-5-13).  The applicant will connect to the newly constructed community wastewater system.  The project required a minor stormwater project and received a permit from the Lake George Park Commission (5346-16-07).  Stormwater management system consisted of (8) Storm-Tech chambers installed behind a retaining wall. 

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper concerns included:  the installation of an underedrain under the infiltration device which would discharge the infiltrated stormwater, location of stormwater for the driveway surface and clarify the details on the number of Storm-Tech chambers 

Waterkeeper Comments: Please refer to the Waterkeeper comment letter to the Town of Putnam Planning Board May 2009.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board held a public hearing on May 13, 2009 and approved the project with the following conditions:  NYSDEC final signoff on the wastewater system; copy of approval sent to George Outcult and LGPC signoff on map.

MORGAN SUBDIVISION (UPDATED 11/27/08)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes a two lot subdivision, creating a 1.3 acre lot from a larger parcel.  The land is deszsignted Low Intensity Use by the APA.  A stormwater management plan was prepared and submitted to the Lake George Park Commission.  The Planning Board expressed concern about the existing boathouses and the setback of the proposed on-site wastewater treatment system from an intermittent stream.    

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper is concern about the impact on the existing stream on the property and the ability to provide stormwater management and wastewater treatment on the lake side lot.

Waterkeeper Comments: The Waterkeeper is preparing comments for the December 2008 public heating. 

Next Meeting: A public hearing has been scheduled by the Town of Putnam Planning Board for Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at 7:00PM.

TOWN OF PUTNAM SEWER DISTRICT #1 - ROYAL ANCHORAGE SUBDIVISION (UPDATED 9/17/08)

Project Summary: Royal Anchoarge subdivision is a 23-lot subdivision with 21 building lots approved by the Adirondack Park Agency in 1982 (APA Permit 82-1 & 82-1A).  The subdivision will be serviced by a centralized community sewage treatment system and the Town of Putnam formed Sewer District No. 1.  Each lot will contain a grinder pump with a connection to a low pressure sewer collection system.  The treatment plant and collection system were approved by the Adirondack Park Agency in 2007 (APA Permit 2003-32).  The status of the project was discussed at the May 2009 Town of Putnam Town Board meeting and the final testing was performed and the final sign-off was pending the installation of electrical gear.  At the July 8, 2009 Town of Putnam Planning Board meeting, the Planning Board passed a resolution to the Town Board expressing concern of the state of stablization at the site and potential of erosion and sedimentation present.  Supervisor LaPointe stated the Town has done all it could to hold the contractor accountable for the state of the site, informed them of punch list items and has withheld $15,000.   

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper submitted comment letters to the Adirondack Park Agency and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regarding the classification of the wastewater treatment system, design of the system, applicable standards, construction disturnbance disturbance impacts and erosion control.

The Waterkeeper performed a site visit in early July and expressed concern at the July 9, 2009 Town of Putnam Town Board and suggested holding a meeting to work towards resolution of the existing erosive conditions at the site.

Waterkeeper Comments: On August 8, 2008, the Waterkeeper documented significant violations with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and notified the NYSDEC and APA.  See the August 2008 letter.

Next Meeting: The project status was discussed at the September 11, 2008 Town Board meeting were Superviosr John LaPointe referred to a meeting scheduled with the NYSDEC.  The NYSDEC has issed a Notice of Violation to the Town of Putnam and Bombard Construction regarding the failure to comply with the SWPPP.   At the July 9, 2009 Town of Putnam Town Bord meeting, Supervisor LaPointe was very disturbed at comments raised regarding the project and current state and refused a meeting requested by the Waterkeeper.  A subsequest contact of the Town Attorney by the Waterkeeper tentatively scheduled a meeting at the site.

SMITH (UPDATED 7/23/09)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes the construction of a 2300 sf guest house on the east side of Gull Bay Road and demolish two existing structures.  The project would be an increase in impervious cover of 19%.  The property is the location of the RPI/DFWI field office and contains 6.7 acres.  The project would utilize the existing turf driveway.  The existing septic system would be utilized, which serviced two buildings for RPI.  The project is under 1,000 sf impervious coverage and does not require stormwater management permit from the Lake George Park Commission.  The applicant proposes eave trenches for stormater management. 

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has expressed concerns about the use of eave trenches, expecially with the installation of the foundation drain directly below the infiltration area.  Regarding the on-site wastewater treatment system, the Waterkeeper contacted RPI staff and found the system most recelty installed (1970s) for the laboratory was removed when the site was vacated and the OWTS for the dormitory was the old seepage pit.  Thereforem, the existing OWTS needs to be determined and certified.

Waterkeeper Comments: See Lake George Waterkeeper comment letter to Town of Putnam Planning Board July 2009.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board accepted the application and deemed the application as a Type II action since it is on the lake.  The Planning Board set a public hearing for July 8, 2009.  At the July 9, 2009 meeting, the Town of Putnam Planning Board approved the project with the following conditions - OWTS verification and APA and LGPC verification letters. 

WHITE (UPDATED 8/12/10)

Project Summary: The applicant proposes a seven lot subdivision on a total of 59.6 acres at the end of Gull Bay Road Extension.  6 of the 7 lots will have lake access.  The property has a Rural Use APA Land Use Designation.  The project will have a 2100 lf 16' wide gravel road for access to the lots.  Individual on-site wastewater treatment systems are proposed and on-site wells are proposed for water supply.  Stormwater management is proposed along the proposed subdision road and consists of a 2' x 2' infiltration trench. 

Waterkeeper Perspective: The Waterkeeper has concerns about the grades on the property and the suitability to construct a road on 60% grades.  The Waterkeeper has questions about the proposed stormwater management for the road and would recommend a major stormwater management plan be prepared for all disturbance on the site.

Waterkeeper Comments: No formal comments have been prepared.

Next Meeting: The Town of Putnam Planning Board accepted the application at the August 11, 2010 meeting and determined the project to be a major subdivision.  The Planning Board requested deeds for the access to the site, expressed concern about the limited number of turnarounds and the ability for emergency vehicles to access the site, questioned the applicant regarding the status of the APA and LGPC permits.  The Planning Board required a stormwater management plan for the road but not for the individual lots.  The application was table pending additional information.