Planning board questions IWS facility's site plan compliance and violations

The Town Board Meeting held on July 9, 2025, in Goshen, NY, focused on several critical issues concerning local environmental regulations and compliance with site plan approvals. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the operations of a waste management facility, specifically addressing concerns about uncovered trucks on the property that were allegedly in violation of site plan conditions.

The board reviewed an aerial photograph presented during the meeting, which showed multiple uncovered lowboy trailers parked at the facility. It was noted that these trailers should be covered as per the conditions of their approval. The code enforcement office was identified as the authority responsible for enforcing these conditions. The discussion highlighted the potential environmental risks associated with uncovered waste, including contamination of surrounding areas.

Further discussions revealed that the facility had expanded onto adjacent properties without proper authorization, raising questions about compliance with zoning regulations. Board members expressed the need for a survey to clearly delineate property boundaries and ensure that operations were confined to the approved site. The conversation also touched on historical issues related to the property, including past violations concerning contaminated water discharge.

As the meeting progressed, members emphasized the importance of thorough environmental assessments, particularly regarding the handling of excess soil and potential contamination. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) submitted by the facility, with board members noting that while the applicant acknowledged previous questions, the responses provided were often vague and lacked necessary detail.

The board agreed on the necessity of further review and discussion, suggesting the possibility of scheduling an additional meeting to address these concerns before the town board's next decision-making session. The urgency of ensuring compliance with environmental standards was a recurring theme, with members stressing the need for detailed mitigation plans to protect local residents and the environment.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the town board's commitment to environmental oversight and the importance of adhering to regulatory frameworks. The board plans to reconvene to further evaluate the facility's compliance and the adequacy of the EIS, ensuring that all environmental concerns are adequately addressed before any approvals are granted.