Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use Mining topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Springport board delays decision on Staehr mining plan pending NYS DEC site review
Summary
On Sept. 17 the Springport Planning Board heard public objections to a zoning change that cleared the way for a proposed mining operation on the Staehr property but took no vote, saying it is waiting for a Site Review Plan from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
The Springport Planning Board on Sept. 17 heard sustained public concern about a proposed mining operation on the Staehr property but declined to vote, saying the board is awaiting a Site Review Plan from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). Chair Mike Sacco told the public, "There will be no vote at this meeting regarding this proposed plan," and explained the board is following the DEC review process.
Residents at the meeting criticized a recent Town Board zoning change that reclassified the site from Agricultural to Industrial and questioned the town’s notification process. The minutes record that a small group of residents formed "SCAMO" (Springport Citizens Against Mining Operations) to coordinate opposition. Attendees raised specific concerns about increased traffic near the site and the potential effects of blasting on nearby utility gas lines. The board and town codes officer said they have submitted prior comments to the Cayuga County Planning Board and are now awaiting the DEC response and the formal Site Review Plan.
Town Codes Enforcement Officer Howard Tanner described options the board may use during future public hearings, including retaining professionals such as an engineer or attorney, and noted that the DEC may request a traffic study. Tanner also explained a "Sunset" clause in NYS law: if no operation begins on the site within five years, the zoning can revert to Agricultural. The board did not take formal action on the mining plan at this meeting and said it would notify residents when the DEC materials arrive.
