Pittsford planning commission removes 'prominent knolls and ridgelines' from subdivision by-laws

Kevin Blow, Chair of the Pittsford Planning Commission, convened the commission on July 3 and the panel reviewed proposed language in Section 105 of the subdivision by-laws that lists fragile features and natural and cultural resources to be identified in development reviews.

Section 105 in the addendum had read in part: “Location of Fragile Features and Natural and Cultural Resources, as identified in the Pittsford Town Plan (including wetlands, floodplains and surface waters; steep slopes, prominent knolls and ridgelines; wildlife habitat and natural areas), as well as historic resources, farmland, and forest resources in area to be developed.” After discussion commissioners decided to remove the phrase “prominent knolls and ridgelines” but to retain identification requirements for wetlands, floodplains, surface waters, steep slopes, wildlife habitat, historic resources, farmland and forest resources.

Logan Solomon (RRPC representative) told the commission that “the guidance can be structured however the Planning Commission sees fit for this portion of the bylaws,” and members emphasized that the bylaws need enforceable standards. Commissioner Robb Spensley urged that the final bylaws should “have some teeth” so that criteria are meaningful during subdivision review.

Members also discussed mapping options to show resources and avoid placing undue cost burdens on applicants; Mike Norris suggested using ANR atlases for some mapping elements to help mitigate excessive cost to builders and homeowners. The commission did not finalize every detail and left remaining edits for follow-up work.