Sassi Salon review continues after applicant resists bike-rack and planter requirements, brownfield evidence requested

The Planning Board continued review on March 24 of an application by William Moussa for Sassi Salon at 10 Dakin Avenue (PB 2024-0462). Mr. Moussa, the applicant and property owner, described environmental limits and said he "cannot puncher the ground due to the environmental concerns." He declined to accept a required bike rack and said he objected to planter placement because it would disrupt the ground.

Building Inspector Peter J. Miley explained why the applicant sought a variance from the New York State Building Standards and Code department and noted DOT requirements for façade improvements. The Village Planner and consultants pressed for documentary evidence about potential brownfield issues and land disturbance caused by a retaining wall; the applicant said the wall "was installed with the original beams that was installed and the land was not disturbed." The board directed Mr. Moussa to submit environmental documentation for the record and recommended he retain a professional to assist with filings.

Village Attorney Lisa Cobb cautioned that evidence should come directly from the relevant state agency and be cited precisely: "If a 4,000 page document is going to be submitted, [it needs] pinpoint cites to page and paragraph as to where the specific information is," she said. The board also asked the applicant to show depth measurements for awnings over the street and sidewalk and to meet with staff for a pre-submission review.

Next steps: applicant to submit environmental documentation, revised architectural drawings showing awnings and bike-rack/planter placement, and to schedule a pre-submission meeting with the Building Inspector and Village Planner.