The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

The Zoning Board of Appeals had acted on its agenda December 16, 2009 when Board Chairman Walter Russell announced that he will resign as Board Chairman effective January 1, 2010.  Reading from a letter addressed to Town Supervisor Peter Glushko Russell said, “It has been my great pleasure to serve on the ZBA since 1991. The time has come for new people to take over the reigns of the board.”  After a brief discussion, the board elected Vice-Chairman Leon Blair as the board’s next Chairman and board member James Falvo as Vice-Chairman.

In his letter of resignation Russell said he believes the ZBA has been and should remain a neutral entity and fair interpreter of the Town of Peru Zoning Ordinance.  He said he believes that Zoning Enforcement Officer Paul Blaine has acted independently and fairly to all citizens and that Blaine’s initiative has solidified the Zoning Enforcement Officer position.

In agenda actions for the evening the ZBA:

• Denied an area variance request from Patricia Hamilton for a subdivision at 286 Mannix Rd. The request had been previously denied by the Clinton County Planning Board, therefore, a two-vote favorable majority vote was required.
• Tabled an application from Casella Construction Inc. for a special permit to construct a recreational pond on Cook Rd. Casella plans to excavate some 20,000 cubic yards of clay over a two-acre area. The excavation will be about 10 ft. deep. They will use the excavated clay in their Morrisonville landfill. Casella stated that no money is being exchanged with the landowner. Board member Leon Blair expressed skepticism about this claim. If money is exchanged, DEC approval is required. Some Board members expressed the opinion that fencing should be erected around the pond’s perimeter to prevent any child from wandering into the pond.  Board member James Falvo was concerned about insects being attracted to stagnant water. One adjacent property owner who works the night shift expressed concern about trucks hauling dirt during the early morning hours. Casella offered to limit hauling to 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell requested a performance bond of $75,000 to guarantee repair of any highway damage. The Board directed Casella to meet with the town engineer to discuss all issues. 
• Approved applications from Glenwood Plaza Partners for certain Special Permitted Uses at Glenwood Plaza.  A karate and martial arts studio currently located in Peasleeville will share space with the barber shop in the plaza.