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Town of Chili adopts local law changing rules for apartments-over-retail after North Chili residents speak out
Summary
On June 10, 2026 the Town of Chili board adopted local law number 1 of 2026 to amend Article 3 (sections 518(c)(2) and 519(c)(4)) of the town code to change special‑use permit wording affecting apartments‑over‑retail projects; residents from North Chili urged the change to preserve low‑rise character, and the board voted 5–0 to adopt.
The Town of Chili board voted unanimously on June 10 to adopt local law number 1 of 2026, amending Article 3, section 518(c)(2) and section 519(c)(4) of the town code to modify how apartments‑over‑retail developments are regulated.
Residents who live near proposed mixed‑use sites told the board the rewritten language removes ambiguity and protects the low‑rise character of North Chili. "I completely agree with that," said Donna Bellaboe of Bolberry Lane, who told the board she favored the change so developers "know exactly what can go there and what can't go there" and to keep the town's suburban skyline.
Bellaboe asked whether the change would apply to a specific proposal behind her property, identifying the project as one by Titan Rock. Supervisor Dunning replied that if the board adopted the local law that evening, "the application for the project that's there has not been approved by any board or committee with the Town of Chili. It would be, it would be not allowed." That exchange came during the public hearing portion of the meeting and was part of multiple residents' remarks urging the board to pass the amendment.
Other neighbors echoed Bellaboe. "It allows the gray area for us as residents ... to know exactly what can go there and what can't go there," said Michael Emerson of Mary Lane, who urged clarity to prevent circumventing codes or variances.
Board members emphasized the amendment is town‑wide, not targeted at a single parcel, and noted the change does not eliminate all development options in general business, neighborhood business, or restricted business zones. Supervisor Dunning also said the town still retains an avenue for exceptions through incentive zoning: "There is a mechanism and there is a part of our code. It's called incentive zoning," he said, adding that developers could still propose projects under that process where appropriate.
The board approved the local law by roll call vote, 5–0. The transcript and meeting record do not specify an effective date for the new law.
What happened next: the board continued with routine business and adjourned after approving a slate of additional resolutions involving budget amendments, program funding and community center improvements.
