A Proposal To Build A Banquet Hall Capable Of Seating Up To 225 People Goes Up For Public Comment In Grafton
By Doug La Rocque
The first of two public hearings held Monday night by the Grafton Planning Board saw questions about the proposal and several statements of support. Jane McDermott was asked by Mike Salway about the hours of the proposed business, parking and traffic concerns, alcohol on site, noise levels and whether it would be a not-for-profit operation. Salway lives on land that abuts the McDermott property.[private]
Planning Board Chairman Tom Withcuskey said that traffic would be routed one way in and out of a parking lot he described as of ample size. McDermott answered that most business would be Fridays and Saturdays, and all parties had to be off the premises by 11 pm. Alcohol will be provided only through catering permits. She said it is a for-profit venture. Salway also brought up concerns about the condition and maintenance on Dunham Road. Withcuskey said he would pass his concerns on to Highway Superintendent Herb Hasbrouck. Mark Ferran, a resident of Stuffle St., asked if the structure could be oriented more in a true north south direction, to accommodate solar power that could be used to recharge electric cars. Withcuskey explained set back regulations concerning wells and septic prevent this.
There were comments in favor of the proposal. Jack Ellis, who lives on Dunham Road, expressed his support for young people willing to try something, and take a risk. Ellis said he believes more people need to bring business to the town. Dale Chartier said he is 100% behind the idea. Withcuskey said there is still work to be done with the Rensselaer County Department of Health and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, mostly dealing with septic and waste water concerns. The Board tabled the site plan review to July for any further action.
Moving A Small
Used Car Lot
A second public hearing dealt with a proposal to move a used car lot from 364 to 368 Stuffle St. The business is owned by Robert Chartier, who said the relocation is necessary because of the sale of the original property. Mark Ferran questioned the wisdom of this, indicating there is a very narrow spot on the road and he is concerned about increased traffic. Chartier explained there are no plans to increase the size of the lot, which has been in business for nearly ten years. Withcuskey indicated all the original rules and regulations would still be in effect, including a provision that limits the lot to five cars. Board Member Jim Goyer said the road was widened somewhat last year, and Withcuskey said he would pass along Ferran’s request for special road signage to Superintendent Hasbrouck. The Board then voted unanimously to approve the Site Plan Review Application.[/private]