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Design Review Board issues negative SEEKER declaration, approves demolition of garage at 169 Union Avenue
Summary
After a SEEKER (SEQR‑style) review, Saratoga Springs’ Design Review Board issued a negative declaration and approved demolition of an accessory garage at 169 Union Avenue, despite some board concern that vacant lots can follow demolition. The board noted demo approval expires after 18 months.
The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board voted on June 12 to issue a negative SEEKER environmental declaration and to approve demolition of an accessory garage at 169 Union Avenue.
Chair opened the SEEKER review by reading the short environmental assessment form and saying the board’s answers to the form’s 11 questions indicated either no impact or only small impacts. After brief discussion, the board voted to issue a negative declaration under 6 NYCRR Part 617, concluding the demolition would not have ‘large and important’ environmental impacts.
Board members then debated the demolition decision itself. Several members raised concerns that approving demolition can leave a vacant lot or alter the character of an alley, with one member asking what the city could require to ensure the owner follows through with rebuilding. Staff clarified that demolition approvals expire after 18 months but said the board does not have the authority to force construction on private property beyond existing ordinance limits.
The board moved and approved demolition of the garage as presented. The Chair said the board expects to see the applicant return with construction proposals soon and noted staff will assist applicants with required post‑approval documents.
Next steps: the demolition approval is effective as recorded; the applicant must comply with any building‑department requirements and the approval will expire per municipal timelines if not acted on.
