On Tuesday, Twin Bridges Waste and Recycling got a special-use permit from New Scotland’s planning board to operate a business from School Road but still needs a building-department permit.

In Knox, a proposed solar array was debated again at a second public hearing held by the town’s planning board, with many against it due to concerns about construction, the viewshed, and wildlife.

Stewart’s Shops has exercised its option to buy Smith’s Tavern although the special-use permit that would allow for gas pumps has not been decided upon.

The New Scotland Planning Board granted Cynthia Elliott a special-use permit to have 15 events per season on Brownrigg Road. The board also heard plans for a residential subdivision and for a retail center.

Westerlo is currently facing a decision of whether or not to construct a 120-foot cell tower in order to improve cell service in the area. But some residents are more concerned about potential health risks and the visual impact.

A lawyer representing the owners said, “Smitty’s is going to close. Period. What is going in there...will not drastically affect village lives.” 

Supervisor Vasilios Lefkaditis continues to push for additional business districts in Knox as the board deals with the logistics of mapping out the three proposed districts and informing neighbors. Lefkaditis questioned the validity of the planning board’s recommendation against a new business district, calling members “a bunch of appointees.”

Trustee Richard Straut, newly elected to his appointed post, plans to continue the work he has started  — on water, sidewalks, and helping to develop a comprehensive plan for the village.

The owners of Crossgates Mall, who are hoping to build a hotel next door, are seeking tax exemptions of $2.4 million from Guilderland’s Industrial Development Agency.

VOORHEESVILLE — The public is invited to attend a Community Visioning Workshop to inform the village’s Comprehensive Plan Committee.

The workshop will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, at St. Matthew’s Church at 25 Mountainview St. in Voorheesville.