The Walworth Planning Board met on August 11 to review several subdivision and site plan applications, including two solar energy projects, a proposed 33-unit development, and a complaint about unpermitted structures on private land.
No update on rumored Blue Heron project
Planning Board Chair Doug opened the meeting by reminding the public that the town has not received any applications for the housing development known as “Blue Heron.” He asked residents to withhold questions until formal plans are filed.
Subdivision on Baker Road approved
Russel McGonegal Jr. applied to subdivide his land at 3700 Baker Road, with the goal of eventually selling some of the lots for residential development. One neighbor is interested in purchasing a 3.5-acre parcel, while McGonegal said he intends to build a home for himself on another.
After clarifying zoning code requirements for lot width and frontage, the board approved the SEQR and the final resolution, determining the plan complied with PD-Planned Development 1 zoning.
Concerns delay Plank Road subdivision
The board tabled a decision on Angelo Delmonte’s application to subdivide 1145 Plank Road due to a neighbor’s concerns about an apparent unpermitted structure on the property.
Board members emphasized that enforcement of building codes is outside their role and should be handled by the town’s code enforcement officer. Since neither Delmonte nor his engineering firm appeared, the board postponed the matter until the applicant is present to answer questions.
Verscharge Construction proposes 33-unit housing development
Verscharge Construction presented plans to build a 33-unit residential complex on a vacant lot along Gananda Parkway, zoned for PD-Planned Development 1. The project includes:
- Private roadway access
- Fire-separated units
- Stormwater bio-retention features
- Landscaping with 41 conifers and 20 ornamental trees
Board members discussed the possibility of adding a second access point to West Walworth Road, but the developer said terrain and traffic concerns made it impractical. Engineers noted that further studies and design changes would add cost and complexity.
With engineering review still pending, the board adjourned the application to its next meeting.
Norbut Solar project advances toward approval
Norbut Solar Farm, LLC returned with updates for a solar installation across 1010 Atlantic Avenue, 1045 Kuttruff Road, and 4251 Canandaigua Road. The applicant submitted revised plans that include additional vegetative screening along the project’s western boundary and confirmed agreements with neighboring landowners.
Board members signaled that the plan appeared complete and said they expect to vote on the SEQR and final resolution in September.
GreenSpark Solar no-show stalls hearing
An application from GreenSpark Solar, LLC for a solar array at 5325 Walworth-Ontario Road could not move forward because no representatives were present. The board left the public hearing open and adjourned the item to a future meeting.
Residents question communication and transparency
During the public comment period, a resident asked if it was “customary” for Planning Board members to discuss matters outside public meetings. Chair Doug responded that informal communication between members is normal, so long as proper procedures are followed.
The meeting adjourned shortly after.
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