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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNew Fire House Facility Meeting 11/07 CUTCHOGUE FIRE DISTRICT Board of Fire Commissioners 260 New Suffolk Road. Cutchogue, NY 11935 Telephone (631) 734-6907 . Fax (631) 734-7079 E-mail: cutfd@optonline.net December 7, 2007 RECEIVeD Town of South old PO Box 1179 Southold,NY 11971 ~ . RE: New Firehouse Facility Soulllui~ Twn (!Nk . Dear Sirs: Enclosed is a certified copy ofthe resolutions adopted at a Special Meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Cutchogue Fire District held on November 19, 2007, declaring lead agency and negative declaration pursuant to SEQR, concerning the proposed New Firehouse Facility at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York 11935. Respectfully submitted, J /'1 ,".,-r- /.! //&-It /4~ !J /1 (~::c- Matthew J. Martin Fire District Secretary . . ABSTRACT OF MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF CUTCHOGUE FIRE DISTRICT HELD ON NOVEMBER 19,2007 Chairman Friemann then asked the Secretary, Matthew Martin, to read to the Board the responses he received concerning the SEQR coordinated review of the New Firehouse Facility with involved agencies as a result of the Board's SEQR resolution in the meeting of October 8, 2007. The Secretary reported he had received only three responses which he had read to the Board when he was delivering the correspondence at this meeting. The Secretary then again reviewed the three letters, one from Suffolk County Department of Health Services dated October 19, 2007; one from Suffolk County Department of Public Works dated November 7, 2007; and one from the Town of Southold Planning Board Office dated November 7, 2007. After reviewing the responses with the Board, the Chairman asked the Secretary to give copies of the letters to the architect, Martin Sendlewski, for his comments to the Board. Mr. Sendlewski stated that he had read the letters and then reviewed each letter individually with the Board. Mr. Sendlewski stated that in connection with the comments of the Suffolk County Department of Public Works in its letter of November 7, 2007, he had met with the author of that letter, Mr. Justin Hipperling, and all of the items mentioned in the letter have been discussed and complied with and will be included in the formal application for the required permits from the Department of Public Works. Concerning the letter from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, Mr. Sendlewski indicated that he reviewed the technical requirements mentioned in the letter with the Health Department and that both he and the Department are in agreement on the sanitary flow calculation of 4,116 gallons per day, and that when the formal application is made to the Department of Health Services the Fire District's plans and specifications will be in conformance with Chapter 6 and 12 of the Suffolk County Sanitary Code. Mr. Sendlewski then reviewed the content of the November 7, 2007 letter from the Southold Town Planning Director. The first comment made in the letter specifically refers to page 3 of Part 1 of the EAF, which questioned acreage of the roads, buildings and other paved surfaces which was listed at 2.2 acres. Mr. Sendlewski did not know why this was questioned as a check of the drawings and the calculations clearly indicates that these items will comprise 2.2 acres. As to the second comment concerning question 4 on page 5 of Part 1 of the EAF, it is true that this line was left blank as it was determined by the Fire Commissioners that it would not be applicable as no vegetation will be removed from the site, so to be perfectly correct, ~zero acres" should have been inserted. The next comment was on item lIon page 6 of Part 1 of the EAF wherein the District had stated the project will not require any relocation of any projects or facilities. Chairman Friemann interjected that the answer to - -1- this question is properly ftno" as stated since there are no other projects and the Fire District is not going to relocate the existing firehouse on New Suffolk Road, as it is to remain as the principal firehouse of the Fire District. Mr. Sendlewski then stated that the last item in the Southold Town Planning Director's comments was on page 8 of Part 1 of the EAF questioning why approval would not be required of the Southold Town Planning Board, indicating if site plan approval was required that the Planning Board fttypically assumes lead agency". Mr. Sendlewski stated he was surprised to see this comment because in his 22 years of specializing in designing and building firehouses for over 60 different fire districts, the local boards, including planning board and building inspector's office, do not want lead agency status, deferring to the needs and expertise of the fire district as the design, location and associated site plan of the firehouses as they are considered critical buildings and have special requirements under the New York State Building Code which have to be certified the architect and/or professional engineer as to structure, design, drainage, location, ingress and egress, and other such issues. The result being, planning boards do not want to get involved with the site plan, firehouse design, location and layout, realizing that these are firematic functions and rely on the expertise of the fire district to do what is best for the residents of its district. This is especially true when considering the location and design of the firehouse in connection with firematic functions and emergency response times. Martin Sendlewski stated that since the Cutchogue Fire District is the agency that approves the project, funds the project and is undertaking the project, it should be the lead agency under SEQR. Commissioner Friemann then stated that all of the comments received during the coordinated review period with the involved agencies have been considered. Any anticipated impacts concerning this project, which are minimal at best, are set forth in the Full Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) which was prepared by Mr. Sendlewski in coordination with the Fire District and its Building and Liaison Committee. Any impacts are strictly of local significance. Since the Cutchogue Fire District is the sponsor and principally responsible for the design, funding, construction and overseeing of the project, to keep delays at a minimum in making any changes or adjustments in response to any potential impacts they might occur during the construction phase, the Fire District with its Construction Manager, Architect, engineers and other experts is in the best position to handle any problems that arise on an efficient basis. In reviewing the Full Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) Part 1 dated October 8, 2007, along with the site plan, floor plan and mechanicals, layout and building plans, the Cutchogue Fire District and its Board of Fire Commissioners are the most knowledgeable to determine what is necessary for the residents of the Fire Districts and what impacts this new firehouse will have on the community. -2- ---..... A detailed discussion was held among the Fire Commissioners, and upon motion of Chairman Friemann, seconded by Commissioner Brewer, it was RESOLVED, that the Cutchogue Fire District declare itself lead agency pursuant to New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) concerning the New Firehouse Facility to be located at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York. The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolution was put to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows: Sanford H. Friemann voting AYE Arthur H. Brewer voting AYE Robert J. Kull voting AYE Joseph S. ZuhoskL Jr. voting AYE James R. Foaartv. Jr. voting AYE The resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted. Chairman Friemann then asked Mr. Sendlewski what is the next step in the SEQR process that the Board should undertake. Mr. Sendlewski stated that the Board should now review Part 2 of the EAF. The Chairman then polled the Board and it was agreed that Mr. Sendlewski review in detail the 20 questions in Part 2 of the EAF. Mr. Sendlewski then reviewed Part 2 in detail and answered any questions the Board members had in reviewing Part 2. With the exception of question #5, it was agreed by the Board that there would be no environmental impacts. As to question #5, although it was answered "yes" that the proposed action would affect the surface water or groundwater quality, the Suffolk County Water Authority has tentatively given its approval to supply water to the property. The proposed New Firehouse Facility will require a discharge permit from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services for the cesspools on the property and will require a permit and approval to store the petroleum and chemical products on the premises. The Chairman then reviewed Part 2 with the Board and it was agreed, following the guidelines of the Suffolk County Department of Health Services concerning these items, there will be no impact and this was noted in response to question #5 on EAF, Part 2. On motion by Chairman Friemann, seconded by Commissioner Brewer, it was . -3- RESOLVED, to adopt Part 2 - Project Impacts and Their Magnitude of the Full Environmental Assessment Form (EAF), as proposed, and explained by Mr. Sendlewski, and further discussed by the Board of Fire Commissioners, and that the Secretary of the Cutchogue Fire District is directed to file same with the District's records. The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolution was put to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows: Sanford H. Friemann voting AYE Arthur H. Brewer voting AYE Joseph S. Zuhoski. Jr. voting AYE James R. Foaartv. Jr. voting AYE Robert J. Kull voting ABSTAINED The resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted. Chairman Friemann then commented that since Part 2 of the EAF indicated there was no significant impact, the completion of Part 3 was not necessary. Mr. Sendlewski then stated that since all Board members were present, as well as the Fire Chief and some of the members of the Liaison Committee who were all very instrumental in developing the plans for the New Firehouse Facility at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York, that the Board should review the criteria as set forth in Section 617.7(c) of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) to determine the significance, if any that the New Firehouse Facility would have on the environment. Chairman Friemann agreed and the Board reviewed the criteria as set forth in Section 617.7(c) with Mr. Sendlewski, the Fire Chief and members of the Liaison Committee, and after thorough review and a question and answer period, upon motion made by Chairman Friemann, and seconded by Commissioner Brewer, it was RESOLVED, as follows: 1. The proposed New Firehouse Facility to be located at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York, has been evaluated in accordance with the Criteria for Determining Significance as contained in SEQR 6NYCRR Section 6l7.7(c). The proposed action has been evaluated through review of the following materials: (a) The proposed site and floor plans. (b) Independent site inspection. -4- (c) Board of Fire Commissioners' deliberation includ- ing Department Project Liaison Committee Members related to proposed project program and design and input from a professional consultant to the Board. (d) Part 1 and Part 2 of the Environmental Assessment Form (EAF). (e) Analysis of site resource maps and available environmental data information. Based upon this thorough review, the Board of Fire Commissioners did not identify any sensitive or unique environmental impacts in connection with the proposed project. 2. The criteria for Determining Significance are specifically evaluated as follows with respect to this action of the proposed construction of a New Firehouse Facility at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York. The criteria are first stated followed by an evaluation of the significance with respect to the project. (a) Criteria: Substantial adverse change in existing air quality, ground or surface water quality or quantity, traffic or noise levels; increase in solid waste production; a substantial increase in erosion, flooding, leaching or drainage problems. Evaluation: The overall project area is 6.3 acres in size, is in a rural area and was previously used for many years for agricultural farming purposes, but has been long abandoned. Although the proposed action will change the existing use and operations conducted at the site, no adverse impacts to air quality, groundwater, or surface water quality, traffic, noise levels, solid waste production, flooding, erosion, leaching or drainage problems are expected. The proposed use has been designed with on site drainage containment for the proposed impervious areas. The Part 1 EAF contains information outlining characteristics of the proposed project and provides information to assess the potential impact that the project may have on the environment and surrounding community. Review of this information indicates that the proposed project will not cause a significant change or adverse impact with respect to environmental and community resources and will be in compliance with the long-range planning for increases in population and decreases in emergency response time of the Cutchogue Fire District. - -5- (b) Criteria: The removal or destruction of large quantities of vegetation or fauna; substantial interference with the movement of any resident or migratory fish or wildlife species; impacts on a significant habitat area; substantial adverse impacts on a threatened or endangered species of animal or plant, or the habitat of such a species; or other significant adverse impact to natural resources. Evaluation: The site at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York is presently fully cleared land which was previously used for farming. There are no areas of natural vegetation, except weeds and insignificant grass areas. The soil is classified as HaA and HaB Haven Loam with 0% to 6% slopes in the Suffolk County Soil Survey. Construction of the proposed project will maintain 4.10 acres of lawn areas and landscaping on the property. There will not be any significant adverse impacts to wildlife and vegetation. (c) Criteria: The impairment of the environmental characteristics of a Critical Environmental Area as designated pursuant to subdivision 617.14(g) of SEQR. Evaluation: The subject site is not within a Critical Environmental Area (CEA) and therefore will not impact resources associated with a specific CEA. (d) Criteria: The creation of a material conflict with a community's current plans or goals as official approved or adopted. Evaluation: The Board of Fire Commissioners has thoroughly evaluated the proposed New Firehouse Facility at this location and has evaluated it in terms of land use, zoning, population density and emergency response time. The site plan of the proposed New Firehouse Facility indicates it will be located within the central portion of the site and will sit approximately 150 feet from the C.R. 48 and 160 feet from Cox Lane. A supplemental landscape buffer will be installed along the property lines which abut the two adjacent residential properties to buffer and provide a vegetated transition from adjacent residential uses and the proposed facility. The proposed new building will conform to all applicable provisions -6- of the Building Code of the State of New York for a firehouse facility. After a thorough review, the project conforms with the Cutchogue Fire District's immediate and long-term goals considering the potential growth of the population and demands for decreasing response times, and this New Firehouse Facility will serve the Fire District for many years into the future. The Board of Fire Commissioners has previously determined that a new facility is a high priority in the Fire District's plan to provide updated and adequate facilities to ensure proper fire protection and emergency rescue services for the residents of the Cutchogue Fire District. It has been determined that the proposed New Firehouse Facility will be an important community asset which will meet the needs of its residents, both presently and in the long term future. (e) Criteria: The impairment of the character or quality of important historical, archeological, architectural or aesthetic resources or of existing community or neighborhood character. Evaluation: The subject site does not contain any historic or archeological resources. There are no historical, archeological, architectural or aesthetic resources which would be impaired or impacted by the proposed project. The building is designed to have a scale and use of materials that are consistent with the character of the surrounding area. (f) Criteria: A major change in the use of either the quantity or type of energy. Evaluation: The proposed project involves use of energy for facility operations. The project will not result in a major change in the use of either the quantity or type of energy and adequate energy resources are available from LIPA and other necessary service and communication providers. (g) Criteria: The creation of a hazard to human health. Evaluation: The proposed project will not result in the generation of any hazards to human health and will in fact benefit the safety within the community through improved fire and EMS response. -7- (h) Criteria: A substantial change in the use, or intensity of use, of land including agricultural, open space or recreational resources, or in its capacity to support existing uses. Evaluation: The action will not result in a change in the use of lands for agricultural, open space or recreational purposes. The property is no longer utilized for farming purposes and commercial development has proceeded on the northerly side of C.R. 48 in this area. In terms of land use, the development of the project will provide a beneficial amenity which will enhance the fire protection and emergency services provided by the Fire District. The project will maintain an ingress only from C.R. 48 and shall have ingress and egress on Cox Lane. A pre- submission review has been conducted with Suffolk County Department of Public Works, Suffolk County Department of Health Services and Suffolk County Water Authority, and the proposed New Firehouse Facility and its plans appear to be in compliance with all of their applicable rules and regulations. Parking facilities will be adequate to meet the Fire District's needs and appropriate traffic control measures will be utilized to maintain safe traffic access within the vicinity of the site. (i) Criteria: The encouraging or attracting of a large number of people to a place for more than a few days compared to the number of people who would come to such place absent the action. Evaluation: There is no action proposed in connection with this project or project site that would attract a large number of people for more than a few days with the exception of staging purposes for emergency response during a natural or man-made disaster or terrorist attack for the benefit of the protection of the community. (j) Criteria: The creation of a material demand for other actions that would result in one of the above consequences. Evaluation: This project will not create a material demand for other actions that would exacerbate or create other impacts. -8- (k) Criteria: Changes in two or more elements of the environment, no one of which has a significant impact on the environment, but when considered together result in a substantial adverse impact on the environment. Evaluation: There will be no significant alteration of multiple elements of the site nor is this project associated with another project such that would cause cumulative effects. Therefore, the proposed project will not result in combined environmental impacts with any other action. (1) Criteria: Two or more related actions undertaken, funded or approved by an agency, none of which has or would have a significant impact on the environment, but when considered cumulatively, would meet one or more of the criteria. Evaluation: There are no other pending projects in the vicinity of this project site which, when considered cumulatively with the proposed project, would result in significant adverse environmental impacts. 3. After a thorough review, and considering all of the above factors in relationship to an immediate as well as long term impact, the proposed New Firehouse Facility at 5455 Cox Lane, Cutchogue, New York, will not have a significant adverse environmental impact as set forth in the criteria of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR), all of which will result in a negative declaration pursuant to SEQR. and it was further RESOLVED, that the Secretary of the Cutchogue Fire District file a copy of these resolutions, as well as all supporting documentation, including EAF Part 2 with the Cutchogue Fire District's records and to maintain same in a file that is readily accessible to the public and made available upon request; and further RESOLVED, that the Secretary of the Cutchogue Fire District forward a copy of the resolutions declaring lead agency and negative declaration pursuant to SEQR to the involved agencies which were previously sent Part I of the Full Environmental Assessment Form (EAF). - -9- The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolutions was put to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows: Sanford H. Friemann voting AYE Arthur H. Brewer voting AYE Joseph S. ZuhoskL Jr. voting AYE James R. Foaartv. Jr. voting AYE Robert J. Kull voting ABSTAINED The resolutions were thereupon declared duly adopted. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * I, MATTHEW J. MARTIN, as Secretary of the Board of Fire Commissioners of Cutchogue Fire District, Town of Southold, Suffolk County, New York, do hereby certify that I have compared the foregoing resolutions adopted at a special of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Cutchogue Fire District on November 19, 2007, with the original thereof on file in my office and that the same is a true and correct transcript therefrom and of the whole of said original resolutions; and that due notice was given to all members of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Cutchogue Fire District of the foregoing meeting. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Board this 20th day of November, 2007. ,) /I;/ili!;::;- ik;;'! /uDf ___ Matthew J. ~rtin, Secretary . -10-