Board outlines phased zoning updates as residents voice opposition to proposed battery facility

A zoning‑code update plan and public response to a proposed battery energy storage system (BESS) were a focal point of the meeting. Planning staff described a phased approach: phase one will address items that align with the existing comprehensive plan and can move forward quickly, including accessory dwelling units, visual assessments, and administrative corrections; battery energy storage systems were flagged for priority review because of a current moratorium and time limits associated with it.

Staff said the comprehensive‑plan update will run in parallel and that each major section will be posted five days before public workshops to allow review. The presenter said the town will break amendments into manageable packages, hold workshops and finish with a public hearing.

Several residents who attended a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) hearing spoke to the board, describing emotional and technical concerns. One resident said he had observed 75 attendees at the DEIS session and that most comments were opposed; another called the proposed 12.5‑acre installation in a 15‑acre parcel a “disaster” for a residential area and urged the town to investigate legal options or use delay tactics. Speakers said perceived benefits of the project would flow to the neighboring jurisdiction (transcript: "Olster"), while burdens would fall on Hurley.

Board members said the appropriate venue for technical objections is the DEIS process itself but acknowledged residents’ distress and said staff will continue to monitor filings and the timing of proceedings. The board did not take a final regulatory vote at the meeting; staff outlined next steps for public engagement and phased drafting of ordinance language.