Rochester Development News
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6/25/2026 Town Board Workshop Meeting
Published: Jun 25, 2026
Town Board Authorizes Agreement with GovWell
The board authorized entering into an agreement with GovWell as presented. The agreement was amended to include authorization for the town supervisor to execute it. The motion carried.
Dog Kennel Fencing Expansion and Battery Storage System Regulations Under Review
The board discussed the potential expansion of fencing for the dog kennel. A donation of chain-link fencing from Wayward Ranch was received, and a fence contractor has offered to donate installation services. Concerns were raised about the location of the proposed fence expansion, particularly regarding its proximity to the playground and the condition of existing fencing on the same parcel, which is considered a child safety issue. An alternative suggestion was to create a dog park in the triangular area, utilizing the donated fence, which could address both the dog run and the repair of existing fencing. The board is waiting for more specific information regarding the length of the donated fencing before making a decision. Separately, the board is working on developing zoning regulations for battery energy storage systems (BESS). A planner and a subcontractor from NYSERDA are assisting in analyzing zoning data and utility infrastructure to identify feasible locations, likely along the 209 corridor. An educational component for town board, planning board, and fire districts is also being developed. The board plans to gather public input before drafting local laws.
Town Board Considers Zoning for Food Trucks
The town board discussed the process for handling food truck applications, specifically a 'use not considered' application. The current code does not explicitly list food trucks, leading to the need for a town board determination on whether they are allowed in specific zoning districts. Options include defining them as a principal permitted use, accessory use, or special use, or amending the code to include them. Concerns were raised about existing food trucks operating under different classifications, potential liability, and the process for temporary events like Heritage Day. The board agreed that incorporating food trucks into the code, with clear regulations on setbacks and siting, is preferable to the current 'use not considered' process. The possibility of temporary permits and regulating them under vehicle and traffic law versus zoning was also debated.
Firewise Training and Emergency Preparedness Discussed
The board discussed the importance of Firewise training and updating the emergency plan due to increased frequency of 100-year events, especially flooding. Jerry's proposal for a Firewise training was supported. The discussion also touched on the accumulation of fuel in forests due to infrequent fires, highlighting the need for residents to understand what to do in fire situations. Control burns are being conducted in Albany, and there's a recognized need for such practices locally. The topic of updating the emergency plan and preparing for community emergencies was reiterated.
Rooted in Rochester Project Presents Community Priorities
Heather presented the final findings of the Rooted in Rochester project, a year-long community engagement initiative funded by a grant from Partners for Climate Action (now The Understory) through its Funding Futures Together We Decide program. The project aimed to understand residents' environmental and community priorities. The initiative involved community input through surveys and idea submission forms from October to February, followed by resident voting on submitted ideas. The project engaged nearly 4,000 residents, with approximately 10% of households returning ballots and over 120 expressing interest in volunteering. A follow-up phase, Game Plan, will offer support for planning and professional assistance for project implementation. A final mixer was scheduled for July 29th to help residents turn ideas into reality.
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