Town of Newburgh Planning Board approves electronic sign for Route 300 car wash

The Town of Newburgh Planning Board on Sept. 18 unanimously approved a special use permit allowing an electronic ARB sign at the proposed ADS Properties car wash at 1295 Route 300.

Chairman John P. Ewasutyn opened the public hearing and, after a presentation by applicant representative Grace Ruseskas and questions from board members, the board closed the hearing and voted 5-0 to grant the permit subject to compliance with Town Code Section 185-14P and payment of fees. Planning Board Attorney Dominic Cordisco advised the board that the application is a Type 2 action under SEQRA and recommended conditioning approval on full compliance with the detailed standards in 185-14P.

Ruseskas showed visuals and said the proposed full-color sign can display pricing, promotions and graphics; she said it can be programmed to show a steady image or be turned off at night depending on the owner’s choice. "It is definitely this same type" of high-resolution display, she said, and that many clients choose a steady, legible message rather than constant rotation.

Board members pressed for details on color, legibility and night operation. Code Compliance Officer Jim Campbell stated the town code limits how often a sign may change and noted the town’s rule allowing message changes once every half hour. Engineer Pat Hines noted the project received a Local determination from Orange County Planning and recommended that any approval reference Section 185-14P, which governs lighting levels, timing and related standards for electronic signs.

With no public comment, Ken Mennerich moved to close the public hearing; Cliff Browne seconded and the board voted unanimously. Dave Dominick then moved to approve the special use permit conditioned on compliance with 185-14P and payment of fees; Stephanie DeLuca seconded and the motion passed 5-0.

Next steps include final permit paperwork and fee payment; the board recorded the action at 7:12 p.m.