After Altamont recommended disapproving a solar farm, which would have stood on its outskirts, the solar company withdrew its application and is now focusing on the rural town of Knox, which it sees as more receptive to solar projects.
As Voorheesville sets out to draft a blueprint for development, it would be wise to follow advice from the architect of Altamont’s master plan: Be open and inclusive.
The third phase of a public hearing on a proposal for planned unit development districts in Voorheesville left no doubt in the minds of village board members that now is the time for Voorheesville to draft what the mayor called a blueprint for its future, a comprehensive land-use plan.
The new owner of the Old Stone Inn — built in 1773 — doesn’t want a nine-acre solar farm in his front yard. But Guilderland okayed these farms for rural areas as well as industrial areas just a few months ago.
Acting Chief Building and Zoning Inspector Jacqueline Coons said that as soon as the town receives the right paperwork, demolition will continue. “It should be done soon,” she said.
Stewart’s has bought the house next to its Altamont store. A year ago, the village board declined to change the zoning of that parcel from residential to commercial, nixing plans Stewart’s had for expansion.
