The Town of Northwood, New Hampshire - Planning Board Minutes 09/24/09

PRESENT: Chairman Pete Jones, Vice Chairman Bob Strobel, Selectmen Representative Bob Holden, Herb Johnson, Victoria Parmele, Alternates Pat Bell and Rick Wolf, and Town Planner Elaine Planchet.

VOTING DESIGNATION: Pete Jones, Bob Strobel, Bob Holden, Herb Johnson, Victoria Parmele, and Alternates Pat Bell and Rick Wolf.

ABSENT: Deborah Couch, Roger LeClerc, and Alternate Scott Campbell.

Minutes:
August 13, 2009
Page 5: Change …Scott Campbell… to …Herb Johnson…
Page 6: Change …plan… to …planner…
Mr. Johnson makes a motion to approve the August 13, 2009, as amended. Mr. Jones seconds. Ms. Smith states that she was on vacation and her changes have not been included in this draft. The motion and second are withdrawn and the minutes are postponed to the next work session.

August 27, 2009
Page 1: Add: Alternate Scott Campbell
Page 4: Delete: …as an engineer…
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Jones, to approve the minutes of August 27, 2009, as amended. Motion passes; 7/0.

September 4, 2009
Page 1: Change to state…that it would be possible for folks to use ...
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Jones, to approve the minutes of September 4, 2009, as amended. Motion passes; 4/0/2. Mr. Bell and Mr. Holden abstain as they were not at the site walk. (Mr. Wolf has recused himself from discussions relative to CBNA.)

September 10, 2009
Page 2: Change …not… to …no…
Page 3: Change: … with… to …about…
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Strobel, to approve the minutes of September 10, 2009, as amended. Motion passes; 6/0/1. Mr. Holden abstains as he was not at the meeting.

Preliminary Consultation:
Proposed Family Dollar retail store; Route 202/9, Map 234; Lot 7-2. Property currently owned by Beth Grimes and Gregory Lalish.

Herb Johnson recuses himself.

Christopher Berry, Berry Surveying and Engineering, is present representing Mr. Lopez who wishes to put a discount family dollar store on the property on Route 202/9 near the credit union.

Mr. Berry explains that this lot is a subdivision that was done at the same time as the highway reconstruction of Rts. 202/9. He explains that a variance was granted by the zoning board to allow for the proposed driveway and retaining wall to be within the sideline setback. He states that the subdivision created an easement, which is a shared access at this time.

Mr. Berry states that the Family Dollar portion is proposed to be 8,000 sq. ft. with a 1,950 sq. ft. attached out building that would be for another retail space for a small user.

Mr. Berry states that NHDOT likes the geometry. Mr. Berry states that he requested a scoping meeting with DOT and DOT did not believe that it was warranted. He adds that they still need to apply for a DOT driveway permit.

Mr. Berry states that there is on site water and sewer; however, they will need to obtain NHDES permits and a stormwater analysis will need to be submitted and addressed. He adds that they will provide a brief traffic analysis as well as site grading with typical details, etc.

Ms. Parmele asks for a description of the plan. Mr. Berry replies that the proposed 8,000 sq. ft. building will have a 10’ sidewalk in front of it, with vertical granite curbing proposed for that sidewalk. There will be a small parking area in front and they will request a waiver for parking as they do not feel there is as much parking needed as required. Ms. Parmele asks why the parking area will be in the front and Mr. Berry replies that this is due to grading issues of the property. Ms. Parmele states that the Master Plan states that this is a crucial gateway to the town and this is an important issue.

Mr. Strobel asks where the loading area will be proposed. Mr. Berry states that this will be in the rear of the parcel. He adds that typically Family Dollar likes to have 360 access; however, this is not an option on this site.

Mr. Jones asks about the exterior of the building and Mr. Berry replies that they will propose that this be a metal building with a fairly flat roof. He adds that with this being a gateway to the community, they have altered the typical Family Dollar look somewhat to stray from the normal to meet the town’s architectural standards. Ms. Parmele states that the town’s architectural standards are stricter now and she does not see how this proposal fits in with these standards. She asks if they are anticipating many waivers. Mr. Berry replies that they are not planning for many waivers. Mr. Jones suggests that the design be reviewed and looked at to make the design fit in better with the town and surrounding buildings in the vicinity.

Mr. Jones mentions lighting requirements and that the applicant may want to be sensitive to lighting at night with the proximity of the residential areas.

Ms. Smith explains that there has been a variance granted; however, an abutter has requested a rehearing with the zoning board.

Mr. Johnson returns to the board as a voting member.

OLD CASES:
CASE 09-07: Davlynn Development, LLC, Masten Drive at Rte. 4, Map 234. Applicants seek amendment to approved subdivision plan to remove sidewalk. Application accepted as complete on 4/23/09; 65-day 6/27/09. Continuance granted to 9/24/09.

Charlie Zilch, SEA Associates, is present. He gives a synopsis of the situation thus far. He explains that they have been working with the DOT regarding a proposal for curbed sidewalks, east and west from the development. He explains that there have been drainage problems all the way from the top of Rte 4 to the wetlands at the cul-de-sac. The initial plans never had control of that flow. The current proposal now addresses this with an easement which provides for flowage rights to the natural water course. He states that they have had this but only on the westerly end and now also have it on the easterly end.

Mr. Zilch states that the easement plan is now recorded. He states that he does not think there will be any major issues with DOT. He has been in discussions with DOT. He notes that the DOT has provided a draft agreement to address maintenance of the sidewalks. Mr. Zilch asks that the town read through the agreement to make sure the town is in agreement. DOT will also review the proposed flowage easement.

Mr. Jones makes a motion to conditionally approve the application, 09-07, as amended, to include the installation of sidewalks. Motion is withdrawn.

Mr. Jones makes a motion to send the proposed flowage release and proposed municipal agreement for sidewalks to town counsel for review and that we send the two easement drawings dated 9/8/09 to town engineers for review. Second by Mr. Johnson. Motion passes unanimously; 7/0.

Mr. Jones makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to approve the application, 09-07, as amended, to include the installation of sidewalks with the conditions that the drawings and language referred to in the previous motion are satisfactorily reviewed by the town’s engineer and town counsel, respectively, and acceptance of the maintenance agreement by the selectmen, in conjunction with the highway advisory committee and approval by NHDOT and that sidewalks must be completed within a year. Motion passes unanimously; 7/0.

CASE 09-08: Coe Brown Northwood Academy, 907 First NH Turnpike, Map 217; Lots 65 and 66; Dana and Cindy Davidson, 35 Bow Lake Road, Map 218; Lot 1. Applicants are seeking site plan approval to add an educational facility with proposed 1,500 +/- sq. ft.; to expand athletic fields; and to create access onto Bow Lake Road. Application accepted as complete on 7/23/09; 65-day 9/26/09.

Mr. Wolf recuses himself for this application.

Geoff Aleva, of Civil Consultants, is present representing CBNA. Also present are abutters Brian & Marcia Severance; Bob Bailey; and Tim Colby.

Mr. Aleva provides an update of the project. He provides a letter requesting a continuance. Also provided are revised plans and a draft copy of the traffic report.

Ms. Planchet explains that the board approved two tasks for Underwood to address. The first task, to review the plans alongside town regulations, was put on hold while the applicant made changes to address the NHDES comments and changes regarding drainage from the proposed access road. The board was provided an estimate for this engineering review. The second task, review of the traffic study, awaits an estimate from Underwood as they want to see the traffic study first.

Mr. Aleva further explains the changes related to the NHDES review. He states that they have redirected the stormwater flows so that the discharge will be captured in the underground pipes and into the adjacent wetlands.

Mr. Aleva states that another area of concern was how to treat flows from the maintenance building. Mr. Aleva states that they are proposing to add gutters to the roof and direct the drainage to a dry well, which would percolate into the groundwater and eventually to the swale.

Mr. Aleva states that the terrain permit should be forthcoming. He adds that the application complete letter from NHDES for the wetlands permit has been received. He states that he will be doing a site walk with NHDES and a wildlife biologist to address endangered species.

Mr. Aleva reviews the draft traffic study which he just received. He states that there are recommendations relative to the evaluation of traffic count. He states that the traffic engineer had a discussion with the Town Administrator David Stack regarding development. Mr. Aleva states that based on the traffic counts, 1/3 of the traffic that travels down Bow Lake Rd. ends up in CBNA in the morning. He states that the traffic engineer does not recommend making this area a designated school zone at this time as this area currently has a 25 MPH speed limit. Ms. Planchet asks who decides what a school zone is and Mr. Aleva replies that he will get more information to this item. Mr. Jones asks what that number is for 1/3 of the traffic on Bow Lake Rd. Mr. Aleva replies that he will check into this.

Mr. Aleva states that the traffic study has recommended the re-striping of Bow Lake Rd. intersection with Rte. 4. They will also check into the stacking lanes. He adds that there is about a 71 second delay for traffic on Bow Lake Rd. trying to get access out onto Rte. 4 during peak times. He notes that the access road will deplete this to 20 seconds. Mr. Aleva states that the traffic engineer feels that people will not use this as a short cut. He adds that they estimate 60 cars exiting Rte. 4 to go onto Bow Lake Rd. to use the new access road in the morning peak time. Mr. Aleva states that the re-stripe will be a tighter turning radius in this area. Discussion ensues. Mr. Aleva will obtain additional information relative to the traffic study.

Mr. Johnson asks about the school bus stop in this area. Mr. Aleva refers to the information from the bus company noting times of when it comes through and stops. A discussion is held regarding a deceleration lane and the possible delays of bus traffic on Rte. 4. Ms. Parmele discusses safety concerns regarding the nearby school bus stops with members of the public

Ms. Severance asks if the board members who attended the site walk would discuss their findings and if those who did not attend if they have had the opportunity to look at this situation. Mr. Bell states that he is familiar with the traffic in the area and finds the best time to go and the best time to not be in the area. Bob Holden states that he has not been to visit the area and asks for a synopsis from those who attended. Ms. Parmele sees benefits; however, adds that the road is narrow; there are still some sight distance issues. She adds that something needs to be done and suggests that they look at the traffic numbers and to look at the project from a safety aspect. She states that the road is not safe now and asks if it will be less safe with the access road. Mr. Jones notes that there is a section of the road where it has been improved that does not have a lot of shoulder, on the east side, where the trees come right up to the side of the road. He adds that there are also a fair number of cracks in the road at this point. However, he noted that there was a very light traffic flow at that time of day and there was some traffic that did come up and down the road, but was not coming quickly at all. Mr. Strobel states that the cars were not doing the speed limit. He would guesstimate at least half the traffic was at least doing 35 where the speed limit is 25. He asks about the enforcement and mentions that it is the town’s responsibility for enforcement; however, if we can avoid that additional expense through better design, that would be better. He states that people will go around to the left of traffic turning right onto Bow Lake Road as previously discussed and a traffic officer could address this. Mr. Jones states that he is still a fan of the potential school zone and Mr. Aleva agrees and adds that if that is not a change maybe this could be addressed by signage.

Mr. Jones makes a motion, second by Mr. Strobel, to continue case 09-08 to Oct. 22 and accept the continuance request provided. Motion passes; 6/0.

Mr. Colby states that the proposed road will also be the construction entrance also. He states that if the road condition is starting to crack now, the construction vehicles may affect this as well. He suggests that pictures of the road be taken before and after construction. He adds that the traffic is almost stopped up to the transfer station already and folks may choose to come down Ridge Rd. to use the access road. He asks who will enforce this if folks go through that way and this will put more traffic on that road.

NEW CASE:
CASE 09-10: Camp Yavneh, 18 Lucas Pond Rd. Map 124; Lot 15. Applicant is seeking site plan review to add a 5,606 sq. ft. multi-purpose building.

Rick Wolf returns as a voting member.

Charlie Comtois is present representing Camp Yavneh. Revised plans are provided tonight. Ms. Planchet states that this is a new application and that the board discussed the application and staff notes at the work session. The applicant was asked to submit more information at the work session. She adds that there is a requirement that new information is to be provided two weeks in advance. She notes that most of the material was provided at submittal; however, she states that she has not had a chance to review the revised materials which were received at 6:30 this evening.

Mr. Comtois explains the plans and the property layout. He explains that lights are exterior lights only and will be attached to the building. He states that these plans depict all buildings at the camp.

Ms. Smith asks about the prior abutter property encroachment. Mr. Comtois replies that the Fortins moved their building; however, he is not sure of the distance.

Mr. Comtois states that there will be some drainage and is noted on the plans as well as underground utilities. All roads are now located on the plan. Ms. Planchet asks Mr. Comtois about the numbered items in the staff notes. Ms. Planchet suggests that the outdoor lighting be added to the plan. Mr. Comtois replies that he will have this added. Plans are further reviewed. Mr. Comtois states that landscaping and parking are noted as well as a loading area. Ms. Planchet asks about the water source for the new building and Mr. Comtois notes that the usage for the septic system is more than 2,500. gallons per day; it can handle 72,000 gallons per day. Ms. Planchet notes that hours of operation have been noted on the plan. Ms. Planchet asks about a landscape buffer from abutters. Mr. Comtois states that there is a buffer between properties. Ms. Planchet recommends that the application is complete. Mr. Jones makes a motion to accept the application as complete. Mr. Strobel seconds. Motion passes; 7/0.

Mr. Jones reads the abutters list and opens the public portion. No abutters are present.

Mr. Comtois explains building #11 is currently a staff lounge, a nursery area, and a weight room. Building #3 is their temple/hall to pray and will not hold what they need so they gather outside. This new building will be a multi-purpose building with one side to be their prayer space and for gathering in the mornings. The center area of the building will be a hall to hang pictures and another display area. There will be a small kitchen area, bathroom on the other side with a two story staff lounge, which is moving from building 11. Down the stairs there will be two places for a study, and a library area for teachers. Also on the other side there will be a basement with a lounge for the older kids who attend the camp. Mr. Comtois states that the mechanical room will also be on the first floor basement area. He adds that they are proposing decks around the building for gatherings. They are not doing much to the lawn and are will not be adding people to the camp. He adds that the camp has not grown in the last five years and they would prefer that the camper number does not increase past the 300 kids that currently attend. Ms. Smith asks if there are 300 kids at one time. Mr. Comtois explains that the session is an 8 week session from June 20 to Aug. 20. He adds that this is the same group with the number being constant with one changeover day at the camp. Ms. Smith adds that the census should always be amended at each plan amendment. Mr. Comtois states that the issue is a comfort issue at this time not to add campers or staff. Ms. Smith notes that the camp is also open during the spring and fall for conferences and she notes that the use is beyond the summer months. Mr. Comtois states that in the spring and fall the camp is open on weekends for groups; mostly within the Hebrew College community.

Ms. Smith asks about the prime wetlands buffer. She states that the area is not a prime wetland. She suggests removing the 100 ft. prime wetland reference from the plan.

Additional discussion is held regarding prior complaints with noise due to the PA system. Mr. Comtois explains how the direction of the speakers has been modified and other changes to rectify the problems with noise levels.

Ms. Smith notes that there was a septic lagoon on the premises. Mr. Comtois states that this has been removed and is now the fields and parking areas.

Mr. Jones makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to approve the site plan application with following conditions:
The 100 ft. prime wetland notation and line will be removed from the plan, and
All local, state, and federal permits be obtained.
Mr. Strobel states that if the camp is proposing a grey water system for drainage, then a location should be set and noted. He requests that this be consistent. Mr. Comtois states that this is proposed only and it is only noted as an option.
Motion passes; 7/0.

Pat Bell leaves at 9:55 p.m.

Application to Build on a Class VI Highway or a Private Road
Robert and Joann Bailey, 11 Preve Dr. Map 205; Lot 36.
Mr. Strobel states that he believes that there is good sight distance, and even though it is a private road, it is fairly wide. Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Wolf, to approve the application to building on a class VI road with a note to be added:
The planning board continues to be concerned about the application of RSA 674:41. However, this situation appears to have adequate road width and appears to be well maintained. Motion passes; 6/0.

OTHER BUSINESS:
Board Administrator’s Items
Budget
Ms. Smith provides a draft of a proposed planning board budget with her suggestions. General discussions of line items are held with description of line items and contents. After discussions, the board proposes the following:

PLANNING BOARD BUDGET 2009 2010 ADOPTED DEPT RECOM

LEGAL PLANNING BD $5,000. $5,000. LEVEL
CONTRACTED PLANNING SRVS $1,500. $500. REDUCED
PLBD CONTRACTED SERV.CLIENTS $1,000. $1,000. LEVEL
SRPC MEMBERSHIP DUES $4,665.   $4,665. LEVEL
GIS COST SHARE $100. $0.     ELIMINATED
PRINTING/ADVERTISING PLBD $2,500. $2,000. REDUCED
SUPPLIES PLANNING BD $1,000.   $500. REDUCED
POSTAGE PLANNING BD $1,500.   $1,000. REDUCED
EQUIPMENT PLBD $1,000.    $500. REDUCED
TRAINING PLANNING BD $1,000.   $1,000. LEVEL
TRAVEL PLANNING BD $250.    $250. LEVEL

Mr. Jones makes a motion, second by Mr. Strobel, to recommend the numbers as discussed. Motion passes unanimously; 6/0

Planner’s Items
“Third Tier” Site Plan Regulation Discussion
Mr. Strobel provides some suggestions and he suggests members review the checklist and see what the board would want to see on the third tier. He asks this be done in advance of the next work session.

Upcoming Meeting Schedules
Ms. Planchet states that the board may want to reschedule meeting dates for November and December as the 4th Thursday in November is Thanksgiving and the 4th Thursday in December is Christmas Eve. The board rescheduled the meetings to November 19th and December 17th.

Capital Improvements Plan (CIP)
Ms. Planchet states that the board has attempted to address the CIP in recent years. She states that the process is outline in state statutes, with the planning board to address with the board of selectmen and the budget committee. This has not occurred over the past few years; however, there has been some information gathered. She states that she has provided a letter to the board in the past and asks if the board would like this letter to be presented to the board and sent out again. The board agrees that the chair would sign the letter.

Workforce Housing requirement
Ms. Planchet states that she is continuing to work on the workforce housing requirement.

SIGNATURE/PENDING FILES:
CASE 09-09: Robert and Joann Bailey, 246 Catamount Rd. Map 205; Lots 36 and 37. One lot subdivision of 5.16 acres with 298.39’ frontage on Preve Dr. and boundary line adjustment of 0.58 acres from lot 36 and add to lot 37; lot 37 to become 1.39 acres with 350’ of frontage on Catamount Rd. Mr. Jones signs the plans.

Other - Resignation
Mr. Jones states that he will be resigning from the planning board effective after the November 19th meeting.

ADJOURNMENT
Herb Johnson motions to adjourn at 10:55 p.m. Motion is seconded by Pete Jones and passes unanimously; 6/0.

Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Fellows-Weaver
Board Secretary

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