During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed housing of sex offenders at a local shelter, particularly its proximity to an early childhood care center on Corporate Drive. Community members expressed apprehension about the potential risks this arrangement poses to children and the overall safety of the area.

The discussion also highlighted the necessity of adhering to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) before any decisions can be made regarding the shelter's site plan. The planning board emphasized that a thorough environmental review is mandatory, which involves classifying the project as either a Type 1, Type 2, or unlisted action based on its potential environmental impact. The proposed project at 290-292 Grama Avenue has been classified as an unlisted action, which requires a separate environmental review by each involved agency.

The planning board confirmed that they would conduct a coordinated review of the environmental impacts, collaborating with various state and county agencies. Notably, none of these agencies objected to the city of Auburn planning board taking the lead on the environmental review process.

The applicant has submitted a full Environmental Assessment Form (EAF), which includes detailed project information. The board's staff is responsible for assessing potential impacts, with initial findings indicating moderate to large impacts related to land disturbance and excavation activities. However, other environmental factors, such as impacts on air quality, water resources, and human health, were assessed as having no significant impact.

Concerns were also raised about the presence of facilities serving vulnerable populations within 1500 feet of the proposed site, specifically the early childhood center. Despite these concerns, the board clarified that the project does not pose a risk of exposure to hazardous substances, which mitigates some health-related worries.

As the meeting progressed, the planning board began to review the detailed responses to the environmental assessment, indicating a commitment to transparency and thoroughness in evaluating the project's implications for the community. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing community safety with the need for shelter services, as the board prepares to navigate the complexities of the environmental review process.