The Town of Rhinebeck Planning Board convened on September 15, 2025, to discuss several applications, with a focus on the sub-plan review for 34 Mill Road LLC. The board classified the application as a Type 2 action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), meaning a coordinated environmental quality review is not required. A public hearing has been scheduled for October 20, 2025, to further evaluate the application.

During the meeting, board members expressed concerns regarding the ongoing delays in receiving necessary determinations from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The applicant has been waiting for a jurisdictional determination related to driveway locations and other site issues, which has hindered progress. Board members debated the implications of these delays and the need for clarity from the applicant before the upcoming public hearing.

The discussion highlighted the importance of timely communication between the applicant and the DEC, as well as the board's desire to avoid prolonged uncertainty. Members agreed to request additional information from the applicant to ensure they are adequately prepared for the next meeting. The board emphasized the need for a clear timeline from the DEC to facilitate the review process.

In addition to the main application, the board also addressed other ongoing projects, including a solar installation proposal by John Heatherington, which is also pending DEC approval. The board plans to keep these discussions open until they receive further updates from the DEC.

Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges faced by the planning board in navigating regulatory processes and the importance of collaboration between local agencies and applicants to ensure timely project reviews. The next steps will involve continued communication with the applicant and the DEC as the board prepares for the public hearing in October.