Planning board schedules Aug. 2 public hearing for golf course clubhouse expansion after drainage concerns

The Cornwall Planning Board scheduled a public hearing for Aug. 2 on an amended site plan that would expand a golf course clubhouse, add event space and perimeter fencing, and revise parking and access arrangements. The applicant’s representative described changes that removed front-yard parking and reduced a proposed 40-foot flagpole to the 25-foot maximum for the zone.

Reuben Buck, representing the applicant, said parking has been relocated to the side and rear of the clubhouse, with additional overflow on regraded lawn; the owner also proposes extending split-rail fencing to address trespass and vandalism on the course. Planning consultants noted that no variances are now required and that a stormwater report (SWIP) has been submitted for review, though further revisions may be needed.

Board members and consultants emphasized drainage concerns at Ridge Road where new stone walls are proposed. A board member warned the walls can concentrate sheet flow and overload trench drains, citing recent heavy rain and historical icing at the road. The applicant described proposed trench drains (an ADS Dura Slot) and catch-basin arrangements to intercept flow and direct it to the roadside swale; the board asked the applicant and consultants to provide detailed drainage interceptors and demonstrate the trench drain capacity in storm events.

Staff and counsel discussed whether expansion of the clubhouse triggers reissuance of a special use permit; counsel initially questioned the need for a new permit but then withdrew the objection after staff explained that the clubhouse expansion is subject to special-permit requirements. The board concluded that a public hearing is required for the project and scheduled it for Aug. 2; staff and consultants will review revised SWIP and drainage details before the hearing.