HomeMy WebLinkAbout20240590 400 Louden Site Plan Unitarian Universalist Congregation Public Comment (2)Ono
I am writing to complain about the recent Planning Board's decision to require a pedestrian path
to interconnect the neighborhood in order to encourage on -street parking on Bog Meadow Run.
The special use permit public hearing had previously determined hat a one-way access on to Bog
Meadow Run from the church parking lot was unsafe at the intersection of Bog Meadow Run..
Reducing on site parking for the church and suggesting the use of Bog Meadow run for overflow
parking creates a pedestrian -vs vehicle safety issue. The board has replaced a vehicle safety
problem -which was previously removed by removal of the one-way exit, with a pedestrian safety
problem. This negatively impacts the neighborhood, create an unsafe condition and does not
meet the requirements used to provide a special use permit.
The City of Saratoga Springs Zoning Ordinance defines a "CONSERVATION SUBDIVISION:
A pattern of development that places housing units outhouse portions of a property most suitable
for development, while leaving substantial portions as undeveloped open space." Article 241-4
Definitions
Furthermore Article 241-12B.(3) states "Types of Development in a Conservation
Subdivision- The allowable residential units may be developed as single family or two-
family residences within a conservation subdivision. A maximum of 25%of the units
may be placed in structures containing two units." Article 16.3 of the Conservation
Design notes "Uses Permitted: Only single-family and single-family attached dwellings
are permitted within a conservation design."
Apply these Articles to the subject lot at 400 Louden Road. When a lot is created
pursuant to a Conservation Subdivision as is the case here, it is limited to residential
uses and the option to pursue a Special Use Permit for other uses would be negated.
Special use permit are an option for lots in the Rural Residential zone that were NOT
created through the Conservation Subdivision process. This interpretation is reinforced
by Article 241-12B (3).
In my opinion, the planning board was incorrect in permitting the application of a Special
Use Permit for the conservation subdivision @ 400 Louden Road. The Special Use
permit should not have been considered based on the current zoning ordinances as
outlined. I feel the special use permit should be revoked. The lack of a safety study
demonstrates lack of concern for public safety is disconcerting.