Village Notes 2025-02-24
Do Outs
Short-Term Rental Process Review: A work session will be scheduled with the Development Board, Community Development Director, Planning Consultant, and Village Attorney to address challenges with short-term rental (STR) permitting.
STR Recommendations: The Village will secure a summary of the Development Board’s recommendations on STR law amendments immediately.
Woodruff Street Project Update
Joe Garso of North Woods Engineering provided an update on the redesign of Woodruff Street, focusing on:
—A shared bike lane, wider sidewalks, and designated snow storage on the south side of the street.
—Challenges with National Grid’s setback requirements could impact the placement of decorative archways and light poles. There will not be a contra flow bike path as originally designed.
Key Board Actions
Bill 19 (Passed 5-0) – Authorizes the Village Manager to sign the BETA Stewardship Agreement.
Bill 20 (Tabled) – Acceptance of a Volunteer Fire Infrastructure and Response Equipment (VFIRE) Grant for emergency services. Trustee White requested more information about what commitments the Village would make once the grant contract was executed.
Bill 21 (Passed 5-0) – Approves an MOU with the Women’s Civic Chamber for the Hometown Heroes Banner Program.
Bill 22 (Passed 5-0) – Authorizes the hiring of Francis Bearup as a Maintenance Worker in the Department of Public Works.
Bill 23 (Passed 5-0) – Approves a contract with Gomez and Sullivan for Engineering Services related to the Waterway Restoration Project.
Bill 16 (Tabled) – Resolution for creating an Emergency Water & Sewer Grant and Loan Program. The Village attorney needed more time to review the proposal.
Board Discussions
Emergency Services: Ongoing discussions about the layout and feasibility of a new emergency services complex, including concerns about cost and the potential reuse of the historic firehouse. Concerns were raised about the 33 Petrova building maintenance costs and damage risk, but staff confirmed it is winterized and funded by existing revenue.
Short Term Rentals: Emphasis was placed on ensuring Special Use Permit applications, which are required for obtaining an STR permit, include all required documentation before being considered. The village board agreed that a work session with the Development Board should happen to streamline and clarify the STR process.
FOIL Request Denial Appeals: Clarification was given on the village manager’s role in handling appeals for FOIL requests that were denied, with legal consultation available if needed.
Public Discussions & Concerns
Short Term Rentals: Residents expressed concerns that STRs could negatively affect neighborhood character and community cohesion. A clear distinction between owner-occupied STRs and investor-owned STRs was suggested.
Emergency Services Complex: Residents raised concerns about cost and location, suggesting reconsideration of the Broadway site due to potential cost savings. Residents urged to explore all options for developing housing at 33 Petrova and raised concerns about the feasibility study’s cost estimates and whether higher figures were properly justified.
