Southtowns Record

May 13, 2026 Minutes

Government
Town of Wales
Board
Planning Board
Meeting
May 13, 2026
Kind
Minutes
Topics
Zoning and land use

Original document

Same meeting

Text · page 2 of 3

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>  Existing conditions: embankment, driveway layout, septic location and limited alternative
  placement options.

Board Discussion:

The Board discussed several relevant factors in evaluating the application. These included Town code
requirements governing the placement of accessory structures in relation to the primary residence, as
well as the unique conditions of the lot, including the right-of-way configuration and the presence of an
embankment. The Board also considered the limited visibility of the proposed structure from the
roadway. In addition, discussion focused on the preservation of active agricultural land in accordance
with the Town of Wales Agriculture Protection Plan, which emphasizes the protection of viable farmland
and the maintenance of the Town’s rural character. The Board noted that granting the variance would be
consistent with these objectives. Practical challenges associated with alternative locations on the
property were also reviewed, including cost implications, septic system limitations, and other site
constraints.
Board members further noted that the proposal is consistent with the intent of minimizing visual impact
on the surrounding area. They observed that the unique characteristics of the lot provide justification for
consideration of the requested variance. It was also expressed that approval of the application would not
necessarily establish a precedent, given the site-specific nature of the circumstances.
The Board inquired whether relocating the structure to an alternative site would result in encroachment
upon or reduction of viable farmable land. It was confirmed that it would.

MOTION # ___ By Planning Board Member Daniel Driver, second by Planning Board Member Anthony
Roncone, to advise the Zoning Board of Appeals to approve James and Jennifer Creighton of 12469 Big
Tree Road, P.O. Box 187, Wales Center, New York area variance for their accessory building.

ROLL CALL VOTE ON Case#3-2026:
  Chairman Richard Munn — absent
  Board Member Mark Gaston — aye
  Board Member Britt Donnelly - aye
  Board Member Daniel Driver — aye
  Board Member Anthony Roncone — aye
  Carried ayes 4, nays 0.
ADJOURNMENT MOTION#_ by Planning Board Member Daniel Driver and seconded by Planning
Board Member Anthony Roncone to adjourn the meeting at 7:23 pm. Carried ayes-4 nays-0

Respectfully submitted,  Michelle Homac, Planning Board Clerk