Development News for Malta, New York

Town Agrees to Assessment Settlement for Ellsworth Commons, Reducing Taxable Value

The town board accepted the recommendation for a settlement agreement regarding the assessment of Ellsworth Commons for the 2024 and 2025 tax years. For 2024, the assessed value was reduced from $47 million to $45 million, a decrease of $2 million. For 2025, the assessed value decreased from $48,410,000 to $42,500,000, a reduction of $5,910,000. The reduction is attributed to a reported significant decrease in the property's income for 2025, as commercial properties are assessed based on income.

Public Hearing Held for Verizon Wireless Equipment; New Hearing Set for Route 9P Installation

The town board held a public hearing on two proposed wireless equipment installations by Verizon on existing poles. No members of the public chose to speak during the hearing. The public hearing was subsequently closed. The board also discussed and approved setting a public hearing for a new wireless equipment installation on Route 9P near Carson's Tavern, involving the replacement of an existing utility pole. This installation is similar to previous ones, with a canister antenna and equipment shroud. The process involves declaring lead agency, referring to the county planning board, and setting a public hearing.

Town Board Sets Public Hearing for Zoning Updates and Moratorium Extension; Discusses Conservation Easement

The town board discussed and set a public hearing for proposed zoning efforts, including changes to land conservation district definitions, split zone parcel definitions, and the number of chickens allowed. The final draft documents were posted online, and the board reviewed changes from previous workshops and public hearings. The public hearing is scheduled for June 29th at 6:00 PM. Additionally, the board set a public hearing to extend the moratorium on zoning efforts and referred it to the county planning board. This extension is a precautionary measure in case the zoning is not adopted in July. The board also discussed the Boulder Brook Farms Conservation Easement, which was initially proposed in 2021 and is being resubmitted for consideration in the 2026 grant period. The project involves a conservation easement for approximately 26 acres, with potential contributions from Saratoga County and the town of Malta. Public comments were heard regarding boundary disputes, tax implications, and the process of conservation zoning. The board also addressed a resident's concern about data centers not being addressed in the zoning updates.

Water Superintendent Granted 10 Days Vacation

The town board approved granting 10 days of vacation for the new water superintendent. This aligns with the offer letter and standard practice for new department heads. The resolution was updated to reflect this, clarifying it as part of the terms of his offer and acceptance.