Planning reviewers flag septic sizing and deed restrictions for Strack Road lot in watershed overlay

Goshen reviewers discussed a site-plan application for a one-acre single-family house at 10 Strack Road that requires planning-board review because it sits partly in the town's reservoir/watershed overlay.

The board's concerns focused on septic capacity, wetland avoidance and appropriate deed restrictions. Reviewers said the planning board should confirm that the septic system is properly sized, inspected and that construction adheres to watershed-overlay requirements. The board also said a deed restriction limiting automotive repairs and restricting potentially harmful chemical use on the lot would be appropriate given proximity to the reservoir.

Why it matters The parcel lies in a neighborhood described in the meeting as an older summer-bungalow area. Because runoff from Strack Road and its adjoining lots eventually reaches the village reservoir by way of Arcadia Road, reviewers said controlling septic performance and limiting on-site chemical and maintenance activities are central to protecting downstream water quality.

Details and next steps Board members noted a diagonal wetland on the property and asked that building plans be engineered to direct runoff to the road front and into existing culverts rather than toward the reservoir. They said the town inspector (Frank) should ensure the septic permit and any required on-site tests are completed prior to final approval. Reviewers also discussed deed restrictions that would prohibit auto repairs and limit fertilizer or de-icing chemical use on the lot; the planning board was expected to consider appropriate deed-note language.

Ending: The ERB recommended that the planning board require evidence of septic capacity and inspection, engineered stormwater/runoff controls to protect the watershed, and deed restrictions limiting certain uses and chemical applications before final site-plan approval.