May Not Need Six More Months
by Doug La Rocque
It was a year ago when many Town residents and the Brunswick Planning Board expressed their concern to the Town Council about the number of two-family dwellings and apartment buildings proposed for construction. Some of these proposed sites were in areas where Town code allowed for such development, but perhaps did not conform with the tenure of the neighborhood. In response, the Town Council enacted a six-month moratorium on such development while they looked into amending the Codes. The first six months passed and last August it was extended for another six months. At the Council’s Thursday, February 10 meeting, a local law to extend the moratorium another six months was introduced, however Town Supervisor Phil Herrington stated those working on the revisions were nearly complete and did not anticipate needing the full extension. Once finished, the code changes must go to a public hearing before the full Board can consider adopting the revisions.
Large Water Main Break
According to Water and Sewer Department Supervisor Bill Bradley, the recent large water main break at the intersection of NYS Routes 2 and 278 was not only messy but costly. He estimates about a half million gallons of water escaped the system each of the four days, which the Town now has to pay for. Supervisor Herrington also praised the local fire departments for their help in creating a patchwork system to keep water flowing to the Brittonkill Schools and other businesses.
Route 7 Study
Brunswick has applied to the Capital District Transportation Committee for a grant, just under $100,000, to study the traffic flow on the heavily traveled Hoosick Road (NYS Route 7). When introduced, part of the discussion involved what the NYS Department of Transportation described as smart lights, traffic signals that actually see traffic flow and adjust their timing accordingly. Mr. Herrington indicated they should hear about the grant on March 1.
Blasting Complaints
The blasting has begun at the Hoosick Road site that will be home to an Aldi, Wendy’s and Kentucky Fried Chicken. Some neighbors have complained the blasting has been stronger than was indicated, and have suffered some structural damage. The Council has set up a complaint program in which those affected are asked to contact the Brunswick Building Department.
Other Business
There were two comments during the open public session. One resident complained about large trucks using Oneida Avenue instead of Lord Avenue. Another resident complained the Town’s website was lacking and not up to date. The Council said they would look into both.
COVID-19 testing kits are available at the Town Hall. They are limited to two per person and you must be a resident of Brunswick. Daryl Lockrow was appointed to an opening on the Zoning Board of Appeals and water rates will rise to $5 per thousand gallons. Supervisor Herrington explained the rate is directly related to an increase from the City of Troy, which is the Town’s supplier.