by Denise Wright
The Schodack Planning Board was busy at their February 7 meeting. The Board approved a positive Zoning Board recommendation for a variance for a garage on a property on Maple Hill Road.
Schodack Golf’s 12-lot proposed subdivision on Schuurman Road was discussed, and had their negative declaration was approved under SEQRA. The highlight of the conversation focused on water for the project. The first element was the potential 900’ extension of the water district. The second was the drainage on some of the proposed lots. The presenter discussed the possibility of dry wells and footing drains being installed on the lots. Vegetation on the lots and swales being impacted were concerns. Members of the Board are looking forward to getting some analysis from the Rensselaer County Department of Health.
A lot line division on Graw Road was approved contingent on minor map changes. A 49-acre parcel is being divided so neighbors can add some land to their property.
Green Dale Community Solar Farm had its site plan approved, and its special use permit was approved conditionally. Board members requested minutes from the Kinderhook meetings to be reviewed first before fully approving the special permit.
The final discussion was the public scoping session by the Rensselaer County Industrial Development Agency on February 15 at 7 pm. They hope to discuss the Schodack I-90 Corridor. The goal is that this approximately 6,000-acre area studied for archeology, soil and wetland will hopefully promote the corridor for economic development.