Public largely praises Goshen comprehensive plan; residents press town on traffic, water and warehouse limits

The Town Board opened a public hearing on a multi-year comprehensive master plan that the planning committee drafted after about 40 meetings over roughly 18 months. The committee chair read committee membership into the record and thanked volunteer contributors.

Public comments were overwhelmingly supportive but raised specific concerns. "I want to make a town is taking control of who gets to build here," resident Chris Ealy said in support of a proposed 80,000-square-foot limit on warehouse footprints and a 500-foot residential setback, arguing that the rules give the town more control over traffic, air and noise impacts.

Several speakers pressed the board for clearer traffic and water detail. Sam Burson, who identified himself as a resident and attorney, noted the plan and accompanying traffic study identify intersections rated at low levels of service and suggested the town needs clearer cost estimates and thresholds for mitigation measures (for example, when a signal or turning lane would be warranted). Jonathan Redeker, the county legislator present, thanked the committee and urged that groundwater recharge and stormwater management remain central to major decisions.

Planning staff and consultants noted the traffic and water studies are draft work products; the committee expects to append additional cost information and concept plans before finalizing documents. The board set a 15‑day written‑comment window and scheduled continued consideration for the June 11 meeting so the public can submit written remarks.

Board members and staff emphasized that the comprehensive plan provides policy guidance; changes to zoning require separate actions. The board also confirmed the town coordinated with the village planner during the committee process and will continue outreach as the plan is finalized.