Planning board approves Root Cellar production facility on Pitcher Lane with non-retail limits

The Town of Red Hook Planning Board unanimously approved a site plan March 2 allowing The Root Cellar to establish a wine production facility at 231 Pitcher Lane in the Agricultural Business District.

Applicants Harrison Forman and Daniel Liebel told the board the facility will be used for production, packing and shipping on one leased acre from Greig Farm and "will not be open to the public for retail purposes," the applicants said. The applicants said most deliveries will be made by the owners and occasionally by a box truck; deliveries will be received at a loading dock near the main entrance.

During the public hearing, Harrison Forman said apple and other fruit wines would have alcohol levels similar to grape wines and would be labeled accordingly for tax purposes, and that their standard ciders range "about 5%–6.9%" alcohol.

Linda Keeling, speaking via Zoom during public comment, asked whether there would be handicapped parking for patrons or employees and said the existing parking surface "is not in compliance" and not clearly labeled. The applicants responded that the site will be owner-operated and not open to the public; the board suggested the applicants and the landlord address the unclear ADA parking markings.

Board members reviewed and approved a Type II Action Resolution and an Approval Resolution. The board removed two prior conditions that had been tied to retail operation (conditions #1 and #2b) because the facility will not operate as a retail venue, and amended the approval to add a requirement that the applicants comply with applicable state farm production laws. Chair Sam Phelan was authorized to sign the amended resolution.

All motions recorded at the meeting passed unanimously.