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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/13/2004Town of Southold Hamlet Study MEETING MINUTES PECONIC HAMLET STAKEHOLDERS MEETING SEPTEMBER 13, 2004 Present: Stakeholders: Bill Grigonis, David Cichanowicz, Ray Blum, Ellen Carbonell, Ed Dart and Andy Greene. Non-stakeholders: Tom Wickham, Patrick Cleary and Phillip Beltz The meeting commenced at 7:10 p.m. Pat reiterated the ground rules and the role of stakeholders that was discussed at the July meeting. In addition, he provided the historical context that the hamlet study grew out of the Southold Comprehensive Implementation Strategy-Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement (DGEIS) that was commissioned and accepted by the Town Board. Stakeholders will make recommendations to the Town Board regarding their hamlet's boundaries and infrastructure needs (parking, roads, etc.) as well as suggestions for future development, including affordable housing. Pat informed the stakeholders that it is their opportunity to chart their vision for the hamlet of Peconic. Hamlet Center Resource Catalog: Pat provided the stakeholders with copies of the "Peconic Hamlet Center Resource Catalog" to assist members with their planning efforts. Overview of Hamlet Center/HALO concept: Pat stated that the hamlet center is primarily defined as the core business district focusing on commercial activity that is designed around and accessible to pedestrians rather than motorists. Although some residential development exists within hamlet centers, future development in hamlet centers is best expressed as a mix of businesses and supportive uses. HALO zones are those areas near the hamlet centers (not necessarily contiguous) that will accommodate residential development. Review of Hamlet Center BoundarF: A large map was provided in addition to the maps enclosed within the resource catalog for group members to discuss the proposed boundaries of the hamlet center. Pat explained the rationale for establishing boundary lines but encouraged the group to propose suggestions for modification.. Peconic was once a hub for business when the train stopped at Peconic Lane. The hamlet has been neglected through time and the Post Office is the central focal point of the hamlet business district. Stakeholders recognized that there have been some improvements in the business district with the addition of the Tasting Room, Farmhouse Antiques and the forthcoming bakery. The vision for the hamlet center was projected to accentuate its "charm and cuteness" similar to Love Lane. After significant discussion regarding the existing boundary it was proposed to include the two properties south of Cochran park (Blue house and Svec Brothers residence) as well as Ed Dart's property to the North of the Tasting Room. It was agreed to leave the school and recreation center within the boundary. In discussion of proposed changes, stakeholders were advised that proposed zoning changes would be necessary as a recommendation from the group. It was also recognized that regulatory restrictions from the Health Department can frequently prevent the development of projects, however, technology is advancing to solve that problem. Review of Strength & Weakness Exercise: Residents made several positive remarks about the advantages of living in Peconic (rural character, open space, vineyards, etc.) while the underutilized business center and nonconforming zoning were cited as weaknesses. The hamlet is also well represented with affordable housing, although some residences are illegal apartments and overcrowded. What Needs Fixing?: Through discussion of redefining the hamlet boundary line, several items were discussed that need to be addressed: · Dickerson's excavating establishment (zoned light industrial) is inconsistent with the neighborhood and this could be enhanced through landscaping and the addition of a sidewalk to accommodate cars stopping at the post office. · The municipal parks bring many families into the hamlet center however the hamlet has nothing to offer these individuals other than recreation (i.e. no businesses). A suggestion was made to provide a bike kiosk that could provide bike maps and make Peconic the premiere destination for bikers. The lighting in the parks is very intense and unwarranted. · The sidewalks need to be upgraded from the Main Road to Route 48. · The parking lot at the Post Office needs to be repaved. · A recommendation for a traffic signal at Peconic Lane and Route 48. Pat stated that would need to be warranted through established benchmarks. · With the recommended improvements to the area, it would be appealing to create a "gateway" entrance to the hamlet from Main Road and the inclusion of signage "Welcome to the Peconic Hamlet Center". Stakeholder Group Organization: Chairperson for the group. Dave Cichanowicz volunteered to serve as Next Meeting Items: meeting: Pat suggested that the group discuss the following at the next HALO zones Specifics of zoning Specific projects-set policies and priorities The meeting adjourned at 9:05 pm.