Development News for Owego, New York

Parade Permit Application Sparks Discussion on State Coordination and Parking Penalties

The village board reviewed a parade permit application for St. Patrick's Church, which requested to walk west on Front Street to Courthouse Square and return on the sidewalk. Concerns were raised about coordinating with state authorities for potential road closures on Front Street, which is a state route. The board considered approving the permit contingent on state and police chief approval. The permit application was for Sunday, June 7th, and the police chief had not yet reviewed it. The board also discussed parking penalties, including increasing fines and eliminating the 'first ticket free' policy.

Preparations Underway for 'Big Boy' Train Event and 'Christmas in July' Festival

Discussions covered preparations for the 'Big Boy' train event on June 12th, anticipating around 5,000 attendees. Efforts are underway to manage traffic, parking, and viewing areas, including street closures and designated handicap parking. Local businesses are being encouraged to participate. Information is being disseminated through social media and a dedicated webpage. The event is expected to boost local businesses. Separately, plans for a 'Christmas in July' event on July 25th were discussed, aiming to close Lake Street and feature other Tioga County businesses. The feasibility of closing Lake Street and involving county businesses is still being determined.

Agricultural Overlay and Pole Barn Construction Proposals Under Review

The board discussed a proposed agricultural overlay, which would allow for expanded agricultural uses on properties zoned for other purposes. The overlay would apply only where the village board designates it. A public hearing was scheduled for June 22nd to consider applying the overlay to parcel 12807-2-14, owned by the Johnsons, pending their confirmation of interest. Concerns were also raised about a proposed pole barn construction by Applied Technology Manufacturing Corporation, which received approval for four variances (setback, lot coverage, parking, off-street loading) from the zoning board of appeals on May 28th. The approval was conditioned on the building being used solely for warehouse and storage, excluding retail or commerce. The applicant still needs a flood plane variance, state building codes variance for wet flood proofing, and site plan approval.

Evergreen Cemetery Grant Awarded, Local Match Funding Under Scrutiny

The village board received a grant of $50,000 for a study related to Evergreen Cemetery, with a required 10% local match ($5,000). Concerns were raised about securing confirmation that Tioga County Soil and Water or Southern Tier 8 will cover this match, as the village would be liable if the match is not secured. The board decided to reach out for written confirmation before signing the grant agreement. The grant is for a study, the specifics of which were not detailed in the transcript excerpt.