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Planning board supports local law adding nonprofit animal shelters as quasi‑public uses, but urges site conditions
Summary
The board signaled support for a local law to add nonprofit animal shelters to the list of quasi‑public uses that may exceed 15,000 sq ft subject to special exception approval, while urging the Town Board to include spacing, quarantine and site‑specific conditions to protect neighbors and ensure animal care.
The board reviewed a proposed amendment to town code section 3‑31‑05(k) that would add bona fide nonprofit animal shelters to the list of quasi‑public uses eligible to exceed 15,000 square feet by special exception. Staff explained the change would allow properly governed nonprofit shelters to develop larger facilities when the sponsoring nonprofit guarantees long‑term operation and maintenance.
Board members expressed general support for the legislation but suggested the Town Board consider special conditions given the differences between animal care facilities and other community facility uses such as churches or libraries. Members recommended the Town Board require adequate spacing, conditioning for quarantine/medical separation, and operational controls for exercise and training areas. The planning board voted to record a supportive referral to the Town Board with these suggested comments.
