Planning Board approves car wash signage but defers electronic message board

The Town of Newburgh Planning Board approved most signage for the proposed Splash Car Wash on Route 300 Thursday but deferred the electronic message component until the applicant files for a special permitted use.

Grace Ruseskas of the GNS Group presented plans for an internally illuminated channel sign on the building and a freestanding monument sign. Ruseskas said the proposed freestanding sign includes an electronic message center that would dim and meet code change‑rate requirements.

Jim Campbell, Town code compliance, told the applicant that electronic messaging requires a separate special permitted use application. Planning Board Attorney Dominic Cordisco said the code treats electronic message centers as a separate special permitted use that triggers County Planning referral and a public hearing; it therefore cannot be approved as part of the standard ARB signage action. The Board voted to approve the remaining signage as submitted and to withhold approval of the electronic messaging component until the applicant files the special‑use application.

Chairman John P. Ewasutyn and Board members recorded a unanimous roll call vote. Cordisco noted special use permits generally require a $2,000 application fee; the applicant confirmed understanding and said she will return with the special‑use submission.