Webinar: Housing Development and Financing 101

Date:  Wednesday November 2, 2022

Time:  5:00-6:00pm

Cost:  FREE

Speaker:

• Doug Olcott, Senior Vice President and Director of Lending Hudson Valley Office, Community Preservation Corporation

Course Description:  How often do local boards hear that a developer can’t do something because it will make the project infeasible? How many of us understand what this actually means? Join us for a primer on the development process, with a particular focus on how projects are financed. Doug Olcott is with the Community Preservation Corporation, a non-profit affordable housing and community revitalization finance company which provides a full suite of construction lending, permanent lending, and equity investing products. Established in 1974, they have invested $12 billion to create and preserve over 220,000 housing units. Locally, CPC has invested in many affordable developments in the county, and notably was the pioneering lender for early projects in Beacon that ultimately kicked off the City’s revitalization.

REGISTER:  Register in advance via Zoom for this webinar at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1VVC6L_JSum14N117T5PXA

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing the link to join the webinar. Please do not share your registration link with others as it is unique to you.

*************************************************************

Webinar: Affordable, Accessible Housing – Strategies for Putting Housing Within Reach (and Keeping it There)

Date:  Thursday October 27, 2022

Time:  5:00-6:30pm

Cost:  FREE

Speaker:

• Shane Phillips, Housing Initiative Manager, UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies, and author of The Affordable City

Course Description: Supply, Stability, Subsidy. Each is essential to the housing equation, yet communities and practitioners rarely prioritize all three. Different disciplines — planners, tenant advocates, architects, community-based organizations, environmentalists, affordable and market housing developers, and others — must work together to ensure that each goal is advanced. By combining “all of the above” housing policy with smart messaging and effective partnerships, we can ensure that no one gets left behind as we plan for more affordable and equitable communities.

REGISTER:  Register in advance via Zoom for this webinar at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_azgPgTt2S-ecWAmia-qs1A

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing the link to join the webinar. Please do not share your registration link with others as it is unique to you.

*************************************************************

OCTOBER 13, 2022

The Dutchess County Planning Federation is hosting a series of workshops this fall to help local leaders and residents understand the issues around housing.

Registrations are now open for the following 3 housing courses:

Understanding Today’s Affordable Housing – Lecture & Tour

*LIMITED SEATING, ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED (no walk-ins)

Date:  Thursday October 13, 2022

Location:  Family Partnership Center (29 North Hamilton Street, Poughkeepsie --- parking located across N. Hamilton from main building)

Time:  4:00-6:00pm

Cost:  FREE (please note that NO FOOD will be served at this course due to on-site restrictions – thank you for understanding)

Speakers:

• Anne Saylor – Deputy Commissioner for Housing, Dutchess County Planning & Development

• Mary Linge – Director of Real Estate Development, Hudson River Housing

• Ken Kearney – Founder and President, Kearney Group

• Jim Sullivan – President, James J. Sullivan Corporation

Course Description: This course will kick off with a presentation that answers the most basic questions about the often-controversial topic of affordable housing, and wrap up with a walking tour to view two local examples of “today’s” affordable housing:

• What is the difference between affordable, workforce, and projects/welfare housing?  What is Section 8?

• How is today’s affordable housing different from the “projects” of the past? 

• What is the need for affordable housing in our communities?

• Join us for a short walking tour to view two nearby developments that represent today’s affordable housing

REGISTER:  Registration is REQUIRED via Eventbrite for this IN-PERSON course at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/understanding-todays-affordable-housing-lecture-tour-tickets-421653144907

*************************************************************

OCTOBER 25, 2022

Columbia and Greene Counties, in cooperation with the NYS Department of State Local Government Services, 

will be holding Land Use training sessions for planning and zoning officials:

Sessions:

Sign Regulation

5 – 6:30 pm

Public Meetings and Hearings (covers Open Meetings Law)

6:45 – 7:45 pm

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE SESSIONS

Location

Columbia-Greene Community College 4400 NYS Route 23 Professional Academic Center(PAC), Senator Saland Forum, Room #614 Hudson, NY 12534

Sign Regulation - 1.5 Hours

The regulation of signs isn’t just a zoning issue— when regulating signage, municipalities must be careful not to violate free speech. This course reveals what municipalities may and may not regulate in commercial or non-commercial signage and explores how signage can be regulated for community aesthetics. The session also addresses the drafting of a sign control law; the content of local sign control regulations; regulating billboards and other off-premises signs; and eliminating nonconforming or undesirable signs.

Public Meetings and Hearings - 1 Hour

This session addresses the goals and requirements associated with holding meetings, in contrast to the purposes and legal requirements surrounding a public hearing. It explores the role of the chairperson in conducting effective meetings and hearings, and includes a discussion of how to manage the public and the media in the context of a hearing or meeting. Also addressed are aspects of the Open Meetings Law, including executive sessions, quorums, minutes, and public notices.

*************************************************************

June 23, 2022 - 5:30 pm to 7:45 pm

HOT BUTTON LAND USE

Presented by:

NYSDOS Land USe Training Specialists

_____________________________________

This course is an overview of some of the land uses that many local officials find challenging, along with the statutory rules and case law associated with them and options for regulating them. 

__________________________________

SPONSORS:

Columbia County Planning Department, Columbia County Planning Board (CCPB)  & Greene County Economic Development Tourism and Planning

LOCATION:

Greene County 

Emergency Services Training Center 

25 Volunteer Drive

Cairo, NY 12413

AGENDA:

5:30 PM - 7:45 PM - Hot Button Land Uses-NYSDOS Local Government Training Specialists

Click here to register! 

*************************************************************

June 2, 2022 - 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 

Zoning Board of Appeals Overview

Date:  Thursday June 2, 2022

Time:  5:00-7:00pm

Cost:  FREE

Speakers:  Patricia Burke and Paula Gilbert, Local Government Specialists with the NYSDOS Division of Local Government Services

Course Description:  This introductory course to the zoning board of appeals focuses on the statutory tests boards must follow to grant use and area variances and proper handling of zoning interpretations. Meeting procedures and notice requirements will also be discussed, along with the ZBA’s relationship with enforcement officials and the planning board, and the importance of making good findings.

REGISTER:  Register in advance via Zoom for this webinar at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_O1NXde6cSiWeABLQOzHBUg.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing the link to join the webinar. Please do not share your registration link with others as it is unique to you.

******************************************************************

United Solar Energy Supporters

Municipal Training Session: 

Special Use Permits, County Planning Board Zoning Referral Process and Operations & Maintenance Plans Training.

Webinar:

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

5:30 pm-7:00 pm via Zoom, 

Register here. 

Panelists include: 

Lance Brabant & Shaun Logue of MRB Group, and Heather Ferrero & Mary Underhill of the Livingston County Planning Department.

Please click here  for the invitation with detailed description of the event and a registration link. 

A municipal training certificate for 1.5 credit hours will be provided, upon request.

******************************************************************

2021 NYPF Information Summit on Clean Energy

Session 4 - Planning for Clean Energy

June 23, 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm

This panel discussion will cover a range of examples of how planners play critical roles in advancing clean energy at local and regional levels. Speakers will provide perspective on best practices occurring in Upstate New York, with examples from county governments, academia, and regional planning organizations. Beyond panelist presentations and discussions, attendees will be allowed to ask questions and offer insights on the best practices they see in their work.

Moderator: Robert G. Shibley, FAICP, Dean and Professor, University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning

Panelists:

Bonnie Lawrence, Deputy Commissioner, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning

Chris Carrick, Energy Program Manager, Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board

Bart Roberts, AICP, Associate Director, University at Buffalo Regional Institute

Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7673024772761288715

CREDITS AVAILABLE



Planning and Zoning Board Member Credit:

Certificates of attendance will be issued following the presentation to all those who attended to satisfy the NYS training requirements for planning and zoning board members.

AICP members can earn Certi­fication Maintenance (CM) credits for this activity.

******************************************************************

Greene and Columbia County in cooperation with NY Department of State Local Government Services

will be holding two, two-hour training webinars for planning and zoning officials:

·       June 3, 2021 “Comprehensive Planning” 4:00 PM-6:00 PM

·       June 10, 2021 “Introduction to Zoning” 4:00 PM-6:00 PM

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Full attendance at these two sessions will provide planning and zoning board members the four hours of mandatory training as required by law.

For more information, please contact Rich Schiafo at:

rschiafo@discovergreene.com, 518-719-3290

******************************************************************

New York Planning Federation

Open Government in Planning & Zoning Decision Making Part 2: Overview and Q&A

May 5, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

Planning and zoning decisions should not be made “in the back room”. This session will discuss how Open Government Laws apply to planning and zoning decision-making, including technical legal requirements and recommended practices that go above and beyond them. Part 2 of this program will provide more opportunity for audience questions for this popular topic.

Presenter: Mark Schachner, Esq.

Planning and Zoning Board Member Credit

Certificates of attendance will be issued following the presentation to all those who attended to satisfy the NYS training requirements for planning and zoning board members.

Code Enforcement Official and Building Safety Inspector Credit

CEO’s can earn professional development electives for attending this NYPF webinar. Those attending the webinar will receive a certificate of attendance following the webinar which can be used as documentation if requested by the Department of State. Professional development electives are self-reported to the Department of State on a yearly basis. Professional development credit is not available when watching the recorded version.

Register Here:

https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/9145108113218965008

To find out more about NYPF webinars visit the New York Planning Federation website.

The New York Planning Federation is an authorized provider of training for planning and zoning board members as required by New York State.

Their webinars are provided free to NYPF members only.

They provide certificates of attendance for anyone attending their webinars or watch recorded sessions.

Many programs are also eligible for Certified Maintenance (CM) credit for professional planners and code enforcement officer/building inspector training credits.

******************************************************************

Using the Columbia County Natural Resources Inventory

***A two-part workshop offered online via Zoom***

Part 1: Overview of the County NRI and its Use

Monday, May 17, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

REGISTRATION -- PART 1 ONLY -- CLICK HERE

Presentations by:

Gretchen Stevens, Director, Biodiversity Resources Center, Hudsonia and 

Ingrid Haeckel, Conservation and Land Use Specialist, Hudson River Estuary Program/Cornell University

This session offers an overview of the Columbia County Natural Resources Inventory, its content and uses, and will include practice in using the document. The Natural Resources Inventory (or NRI) is a reference document that summarizes and analyzes information about the physical, biological, and cultural aspects of the natural environment that shape Columbia County’s landscape. Registration in advance is required. 

Part 2: Accessing and Using NRI Maps Online via Columbia County Geo-Data

Wednesday, May 19, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

REGISTRATION PART 2 ONLY -- CLICK HERE

Presentation by:

Don Meltz, Senior Planner, Columbia County Planning Department

Participants will be introduced to an online map tool created by the Columbia County Planning Department that provides ready access to natural resource information and tax parcel data. Registration in advance is required.

Who should attend? This is a land-use training workshop for municipal officials, including members of town boards, planning boards, zoning boards of appeals, conservation advisory councils, and other committees involved in planning or zoning. These sessions will be most useful to those seeking an introduction to the contents of the County NRI, ways to use the document in local land-use planning and environmental reviews of projects, and an overview of the online data and map viewer. To get the most out of this opportunity, we recommend attending both sessions. Certificates of participation will be provided for municipal training credits.

Workshop Sponsors:

Columbia Co. Environmental Management Council

Columbia County Planning Department

Hudsonia

Columbia Land Conservancy

Cornell University

NYS DEC Hudson River Estuary Program

******************************************************************

Tug Hill Commission

• Thursday April 29, 2021 at 7:00 pm Eastern Time - Open Government Issues in Planning and Zoning Decisions

Open Government is widely accepted as a desirable goal, but there are complexities and intricacies in implementing its principles.

This session focuses on planning and zoning decision-making at public meetings, communications outside of public meetings, site inspections and “FOIL-ability” of various planning and zoning documents.

Other topics to be discussed include quorum considerations and recusal; informal gatherings with quorum present; executive sessions; and attorney/client privileged communications and discussions.

There will be time for questions and answers.

by attorney Mark Schachner

To register: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Wu1Ba5j0RYqHTYV8dEHdUA

******************************************************************

DC Planning Federation

• • Date:  Thursday April 29th, 2021 - Planning and Zoning – An Introduction

  • Time:  5:00-7:30pm

  • Cost:  FREE

Speakers:  Christopher Eastman, Manager, and Ebony Mapp, Local Government Specialist – NYS DOS Local Government Training Program 

Course Description:  This course is designed for new members of both planning boards and zoning boards of appeal, as well as seasoned board members looking for a refresh on the basics.

The course provides a basic overview of the functions of planning boards and zoning boards of appeal and the land use tools they work with, the role of the comprehensive plan, procedures for holding meetings and hearings, and the enforcement of the boards’ decisions.

REGISTER:  Register in advance via Zoom for this webinar at https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6mFIdpPuRvWivZstALSobg

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing the link to join the webinar. Please do not share your registration link with others as it is unique to you.

Credits:  Board members may be eligible for 2.5 hours of required training credits.

Code enforcement officials may apply to use this course toward their professional development electives.

An email will be sent out in the days following the webinar regarding attendance.

******************************************************************

Tug Hill Commission

• • Thursday April 15, 2021 at Noon - Local Regulation: Enactment Procedure

This session addresses the process a municipality must go through in order to adopt a resolution, ordinance or local law, as well as the merits of using each procedure.

Topics will include notice provisions and posting; aging of legislation prior to action; required hearings; and required referrals.

Compliance with SEQRA and post-adoption procedures will round out the discussion.

by Chris Eastman and Patricia Burke of the New York State Department of State

To register: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Mcmcho1_Qg2bf8-mYNibBQ

******************************************************************

DC Planning Federation

• Tuesday April 13, 2021 - Zoning for Food Trucks

  • Time:  5:00-6:30pm

  • Cost:  FREE

Speaker:  Ashley Ley, AICP, Senior Technical Director at AKRF 

Food trucks continue to grow in popularity, led by gourmet and specialty offerings.

While some communities have encouraged food trucks as a way to promote new businesses, others have identified concerns relating to competition with existing businesses, increased traffic, parking availability, waste disposal, and hours of operation. Food trucks quickly adapted to outdoor dining regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they also faced challenges due to lack of foot traffic in downtown areas and cancellations of festivals and other large events. This session will focus on the different zoning strategies for promoting the good, controlling the bad, and enjoying all that food trucks have to offer. The session will discuss outdoor dining trends and adapting zoning to meet current needs, and provide updates on recent court decisions and regulating competition through minimum distance requirements.

REGISTER:  Register in advance via Zoom for this webinar at https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qc0_GwpQS9-Lujb6jjmG-A

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing the link to join the webinar. Please do not share your registration link with others as it is unique to you.

Credits:  Board members may be eligible for 1.5 hours of required training credits.

Code enforcement officials may apply to use this course toward their professional development electives.

An email will be sent out in the days following the webinar regarding attendance.

******************************************************************

New York Planning Federation

Communication, the Media, and Social Media

March 24, 12 PM to 1:30 PM

Effective communication is critical in community planning. Those experienced in the profession “plan before they plan.”

This session will not only discuss how to use different forms of communication effectively to foster community engagement, it will also include cautionary tales about uncoordinated communication by members of boards and committees. Though well-intended, its impact can have surprising consequences.

Presenter: Matt Horn, ICMA-CM

Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1206249331566650382

Planning and Zoning Board Member Credit

Certificates of attendance can be downloaded during the presentation to all those who attended to satisfy the NYS training requirements for planning and zoning board members.

******************************************************************

New York Planning Federation

Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Preparing a Comprehensive Plan

March 3, 12 PM to 1:30 PM

This session will focus on an introduction to comprehensive planning and the ins and outs of developing a comprehensive plan. We will answer the following key questions:

• • What is a comprehensive plan?

  • What are the benefits of having a comprehensive plan?

  • What is the typical process associated with developing a comprehensive plan?

  • How are residents involved in the preparation of a comprehensive plan?

  • What do we do now that the plan is completed?

Presenter: Kimberly Baptiste

Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7099733910162533392

Planning and Zoning Board Member Credit

Certificates of attendance can be downloaded during the presentation to all those who attended to satisfy the NYS training requirements for planning and zoning board members.

******************************************************************

New York Planning Federation

Working with Developers to Foster Investment in the Community

February 24, Noon to 1 PM

This session will offer guidance on best practices in working with developers, and offer tools that have proven effective in establishing a community is “open for business!” 

This is the fifth installment in NYPF's series "Planning in an Era of New Challenges" with partners, the MRB Group's SmarterLocalGovteam.

Presenter: Lance Brabant, CPESC

Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/8127760789549061903

Planning and Zoning Board Member Credit

Certificates of attendance can be downloaded during the presentation to all those who attended to satisfy the NYS training requirements for planning and zoning board members.

******************************************************************

January Training Opportunities

The NYS DOS Winter Webinar series includes two courses in January 2021:

• • Planning Board Overview, Tuesday January 5, 5-7pm: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/k2/j.php?MTID=tfa8b91a4baccecb6e37d2ae557ed16fc

  • Zoning Board of Appeals Overview, Tuesday January 12, 5-7pm: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/k2/j.php?MTID=t857ac9ff22ddb1311b6fc1cd78bd544f

******************************************************************

December Training Opportunities

NYS DOS Winter Webinar series:

• • Floodplain Regulation for Local Review Boards, Tuesday December 15, 5-7pm Register at: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/k2/j.php?MTID=t1f90196698bbbf89af4fd1c6d0a38a0d

  • Skills That Make Great Board Members, Tuesday December 22, 5-7pm. Register at: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/k2/j.php?MTID=t3a27b0f3d5400bf9608e341883180e57

NYS DEC webinar:

• • Wetland Conservation: What Do We Have to Lose?, Wednesday, December 16, 11am-12pm: Click here to register

******************************************************************

December 9, 2020

The Solar Mapping Tool: Supporting a Responsible Renewable Energy Future for the Hudson Valley

Wednesday, December 9, 12-1pm 

Scenic Hudson's Solar Mapping Tool, part of the How To Solar Now toolkit, is aimed at helping municipal, industry, and conservation stakeholders rapidly develop solar energy generation in the Hudson Valley while minimizing negative impacts to our communities' natural, agricultural, and cultural resources. The Solar Mapping Tool is an interactive, web-based educational tool that includes information on the types and sizes of solar development in the Hudson Valley, how solar differs from other types of development, and how to proactively and responsibly incorporate solar development into land-use planning. This webinar will provide an overview of the tool and show how it allows users to overlay data layers in a web map, including layers related to solar opportunities, natural resources, and solar feasibility.

Presenters: Alex Wolf, Conservation Scientist, and Nava Tabak, Director of Science, Climate & Stewardship, Scenic Hudson 

Webinar attendees will receive an email confirming attendance, which may be submitted locally for one hour of municipal planning or zoning board training credit.

To register: Click here

You can join this WebEx event from your computer, mobile device, or phone.

To download the WebEx app prior to the webinar, visit https://help.webex.com/en-us/nrbgeodb/Join-a-Webex-Meeting

******************************************************************

November 18, 2020

Engaging Diverse Communities and Dealing with Difficult PeopleWednesday, November 18 - Noon to 1:00 PM

Presenters: Jane Nicholson, AICP, CFM and Matt Horn, ICMA-CM

Every community experiences “differences of opinion!” In some cases, local government proceedings become a targeted forum for airing disputes and long-standing arguments. Clashes during meetings can derail important planning discussions. This session will explore tools that help maintain a critical focus on process, deadlines, and the objective role of Planning and Zoning Board members.

NYPF and MRB Group have teamed to create a series of informational resources for municipal leaders, planners, and planning and zoning board members, created to help local governments remain resilient and successfully address the “new normal” in a post-COVID era.

Register:

https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2708365830758904334

Planning and Zoning Board Member Credit:

Certificates of attendance will be issued following the presentation to all those who attended to satisfy the NYS training requirements for planning and zoning board members.

Code Enforcement Official and Building Safety Inspector Credit:

CEO’s can earn professional development electives for attending this NYPF webinar. Those attending the webinar will receive a certificate of attendance following the webinar which can be used as documentation if requested by the Department of State.

CM Credit for Certified Planners:

This webinar has been approved for AICP CM credits. The CM ID number will be printed on the certificate of attendance.

******************************************************************

October 26, 2020

We are pleased to announce the 2020 Fall Land-Use Training Webinar

for local officials, and municipal planning boards and zoning boards of appeals. 

Solar Energy Regulations - Monday, October 26 - 6:00 PM

Sponsored by: 

Columbia County Planning Department & Planning Board

Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning

In cooperation with:

New York State Department of State Local Government Services

• Registration required

• No fee to attend

• Open to the public

• Certificates will be available for annual continuing education

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To register for this training session, click on the link below:

https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/k2/j.php?MTID=t1319148ca295b069e05794cdb1ac280f

Once you are approved by the host, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions for joining the session.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Topic: Solar Energy Regulation

Date: Monday, October 26, 2020

Time: 6:00 pm, Eastern Daylight Time (New York, GMT-04:00)

Session Number: Not Available

Registration password: This session does not require a registration password.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

******************************************************************

September 29, 2020

Wastewater Options for Small Communities  - Online, Tuesday Sept. 29, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Coordinated and Hosted by: Coordinated and hosted by RCAP Solutions

For municipal and community leaders and residents, planners, managing boards and operators:

• • Is your small community in need of an effective, reliable and affordable wastewater collection and treatment strategy?

• Would you like to learn about how other small communities have solved this challenge?

Join us for a virtual tour of several small systems installed in recent years in eastern New York

See the attached flyer for details.

******************************************************************

June 25, 2020

Spot Zone or Grant the Illegal Use Variance - Webinar, Thursday June 25, 3:00 pm-5:00 pm

This NYSDOS training session originally scheduled for May 28 is now changed to a WebEx format, to be presented by NYSDOS.

Sponsored by:

Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning

Columbia County Planning Department & Planning Board

The Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth & Community Benefit Act: Implications for Local Planner

Webinar - Tuesday May 12, 12:00 to 1:30 PM

The newly enacted Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth & Community Benefit Act has received significant publicity for its reworking of the state-level review of large scale renewables by creating new Executive Law Section 94-C.  But the law also created new authority within NYSERDA for developing projects and revamped the process for transmission projects under Public Service Law Article VII. It also initiated the first formal Public Service Commission proceeding addressing community benefits, which may influence community benefit agreements on many types of projects. We will examine the new law, how the new regulatory environment may unfold, and review potential impacts on local planning activities.  

Speakers: Daniel Spitzer, Esq., and Hodgson Russ LLP

Sponsored by: The New York Planning Federation

Register Online

Certificates of attendance will be issued to attendees to satisfy the training requirements for NYS planning and zoning board members.

For more information contact:

Barbara Samel, Executive Director

New York Planning Federation Phone

518-512-5270

bsamel@nypf.org

******************************************************************

CANCELLED**May 28

(Rescheduled as Webinars)

Training for Planning Officials

2020 Spring Land Use Training

Thursday - 28 May 2020

4:30pm - 9:00pm

Greene County Emergency Services Training Center

Sponsored by:

Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning

Columbia County Planning Department & Planning Board

We are pleased to announce these upcoming training sessions for local officials, and municipal planning boards and zoning boards of appeals.

Registration is required, however, there is no fee to attend and sessions are open to the public.

• County web map training (a split session for Greene County and Columbia County attendees )

• 2020 US Census

• Short term rentals

• Spot Zone or Grant the Illegal Use Variance

GREENE COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES TRAINING CENTER

25 VOLUNTEER DRIVE • CAIRO, NY 12534

Location Map

******************************************************************

April 22, 2020

Siting Utility-Scale Solar Projects Webinar, Wednesday, April 22, 1:30 - 3:00 PM

By the NYS Tug Hill Commission

As solar energy becomes more viable, some municipalities have discovered their zoning codes do not address all the issues that may arise. The siting of a utility scale solar facility often requires that the solar developer apply for a zoning variance or a special use permit. In addition to engineering and environmental review, boards should consider the various legal aspects of such applications, including the necessity for decommissioning bonds and security, landowner authorizations, timing requirements and the sensitivities of neighboring property owners. Towns may also wish to explore the requirement of a Payment in Lieu of Tax Agreement (PILOT) for the various taxing jurisdictions. This presentation will focus on the unique factors that should be thoroughly evaluated in the SEQRA, zoning and legal review processes.

The Target audience is local officials, including planning officials.

Register in advance: zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_P7or5bm5SZO_sXPj1EEUKg

SPEAKERS:

Stephen LeFevre, Senior Managing Hydrogeologist, Barton & Loguidice, and

John Langey, Esq, Costello, Cooney, & Fearon, PLLC

For more info:

Jean Waterbury

Associate Director of Community and Regional Projects

NYS Tug Hill Commission

(315)785-2606

www.tughill.org

******************************************************************

CANCELLED**March 16 and 24

Using the Columbia County Natural Resources Inventory

The Columbia County Environmental Management Council announces a land-use training workshop for

municipal officials, including members of town boards, planning boards, conservation advisory councils, and

committees involved in planning or zoning.

This workshop offers an overview of the Columbia County Natural Resources Inventory, its content and

uses, and will include practice in using the document. The Natural Resources Inventory (or NRI) is a

reference document that summarizes and analyzes information about the physical, biological, and cultural

aspects of the natural environment that shape Columbia County’s landscape. Participants will also be

introduced to an online map tool created by the Columbia County Planning Department that provides

ready access to natural resource information and tax parcel data.

This workshop is being offered on two dates; please choose one:

**CANCELLED**Monday, March 16, 6:00 – 9:00 pm, Churchtown Fire Hall, 2219 County Route 27, Hudson, NY

**CANCELLED**Tuesday, March 24, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, TriVillage Fire Company, 111 Co Rd 13, Old Chatham, NY

Pre-registration is required; seating is limited.

There is no fee to attend.

Certificates of participation will be provided for municipal training credits (3 hours).

Please Register online

******************************************************************

November 18

2019 Fall Land Use Training

Monday - 18 November 2019

Columbia-Greene Community College

Sponsored by:

Columbia County Planning Department

Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning

Columbia County Planning Board

Greene County Planning Board

We are pleased to announce these upcoming training sessions for local officials, and municipal planning boards and zoning boards of appeals.

Registration is required, however, there is no fee to attend and sessions are open to the public.

5:00 - 7:00 PM Farmland Protection and Agricultural Viability - 2.0 Hours

7:15 - 8:45 PM  Public Meetings and Hearings/Record Keeping - 1.5 Hours

Click below for:

Link to Registration  

COLUMBIA GREENE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

PROFESSIONAL ACADEMIC CENTER (PAC) •

SENATOR SALAND FORUM• ROOM # 614

4400 ROUTE 23 • HUDSON, NY 12534

******************************************************************

September 18 (Town of Hyde Park, Dutchess County)

September 26 (Town of Lake George, Warren County)

NY Planning Federation & Association of Towns - Planning and Zoning School

Every year the New York Planning Federation hosts in conjunction with the Association of Towns, training school sessions for professional planners, land use attorneys, and code enforcement officers to receive credits they may need during the fall months. We have included for your convenience, the school schedule agenda for you to review and plan for this fall. Please keep in mind we are still finalizing the speakers so more information will be coming out in the next couple weeks.

Below is the information for our upcoming annual fall school training sessions that the New York Planning Federation hosts in conjunction with the Association of Towns. 

Wednesday, September 18, 2019 (8:30am - 1:40pm)

at the Wallace Center at the FDR Library and Museum,4079 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY

or

Thursday, September 26, 2019 (8:30am - 1:40pm)

at the Fort William Henry Resort, 48 Canada Street, Lake George, NY

(Additional sessions in Big Flats, Chemung County, and Batavia, Genesee County. See the agenda below)

View the Agenda.

To Register: Download the Registration Form

Please call Patty Kebea at the Association of Towns at 518-465-7933 for any questions or to register. 

If you have any questions regarding these fall training sessions please feel free to call NYPF at 518-512-5270 or email at nypf@nypf.org.

Please visit our website at www.NYPF.org for more information regarding our 2019 fall training.

******************************************************************

September 14

Small Streams: Values, Threats, and Protection

Hudsonia and the DEC Hudson River Estuary Program are pleased to offer a 1-day workshop and field trip on the importance of small streams.Through presentations, map analysis exercises, and field observations we will discuss the water resource and ecological values of small streams, how to identify unmapped streams on site plans and other maps, using online tools, and in the field; threats to stream habitats and water quality; the status of state and federal regulatory programs for small streams; and how to extend local protections to these important resources.

The workshop is especially for municipal officials, including members of planning boards and conservation advisory councils, comprehensive plan committees, open space committees, watershed groups, and for land trust staff and others who are regularly engaged in advising landowners, town-wide planning, reviewing land development proposals, or making land management or regulatory decisions.

The event is free-of-charge but registration is required. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Municipal training certificates will be available. Lunch will be provided.

Saturday, 14 September 2019 (9:00am - 4:00pm)

at the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center (56 Game Farm Rd, Delmar, NY).

To Register:

Contact Lea Stickle at lstickle@bard.edu or at 845-758-7053 by 4 September.

Or, you may apply online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CXRVTMW

******************************************************************

September 6

Recognizing Habitats Field Workshops

The Hudson River Estuary Program is offering an outdoor field workshop for municipal officials and land trust staff to increase their ability to recognize and evaluate major habitat types. We will use maps and aerial photos to help interpret the landscape, and discuss features and quality indicators for important habitats such as meadow, forest edge, interior forest, calcareous ledge, intermittent stream, intermittent woodland pool, and hardwood swamp. We will also discuss considerations related to land development and habitat conservation.The workshops are especially for members of municipal planning boards, conservation advisory councils, zoning boards of appeal,

staff of land trusts, and other agencies that are regularly reviewing land development proposals, advising landowners and developers, and making land management or regulatory decisions.

The event is free-of-charge but registration is required. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Municipal training certificates will be available.

(in partnership with Hudsonia Ltd.)

Friday, 6 September 2019, 2:00-5:00pm

(rain date 13 September)

Norrie Point Environmental Education Center, Staatsburg, NY

Registration: Contact Lea Stickle at lstickle@bard.edu or 845-758-7053 by 30 August.

Or, you may register online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/GVNTN22

******************************************************************

August 13

Liquidity - Exploring the Diversity and Values of Wetlands in Columbia County

This event will feature a presentation by Laura Heady of the Hudson River Estuary Program on wetland conservation, then we will watch Liquidity, a short documentary film by Hudson Valley native Jeanne Vitale exploring the values of wetlands. To complete our night, we will take a relaxing walk along the 1.5 miles of nature trails at Mud Creek which provide the perfect setting to see the frogs, birds, cattails, and many other interesting plants and animals that call our wetlands home. Pamela Price, Certified Wildlife Biologist and Education Program Coordinator at Mud Creek Environmental Learning Center and Laura Heady of the Estuary Program will discuss the vital role wetlands play in clean water, biodiversity, flood mitigation and climate change as well as answers any questions along the way as we explore our wetland connections.

Please dress for the weather and wear shoes that can get wet.

The event is free-of-charge but registration is requested.

Tuesday, 13 August 2019, 6:30pm

Mud Creek Environmental Learning Center

Columbia County Soil & Water Conservation District

1024 State Route 66, Ghent, NY 12075

Registration: Contact Pamela Price on Facebook, or by phone - 518-267-3313 or email - pamela.price@ccswcd.org

******************************************************************

June 12

Training for Planning Officials -  Three Sessions

Presented by NY Department of State and the Hudson River Estuary Program in cooperation with

Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning and Columbia County Planning/Economic Development

Session 1: Hudson Valley Natural Resource Mapper       4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

The Hudson Valley Natural Resource Mapper is an online, interactive tool to assist local land-use decision-makers with identifying and understanding important habitat and water resources, the connections between them, and their broader regional context. The mapper contains over 30 geographic data sets for the Hudson estuary, streams and watersheds, wetlands, biodiversity, and scenic and recreation features. This session will introduce participants to the mapper layout, functions, and data layers and provide examples of applications for local land-use planning and decision-making.

Session 2: SEQR Basics and New Regs                           5:45 – 7:15 p.m.

This introduction to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) includes an overview of the environmental assessment form (EAF), Type I, Type II, and Unlisted actions and the sequence of making a positive or negative declaration on a project’s potential to have an adverse impact on the environment. Recent amendments to the SEQR regulations and the process of completing SEQR prior to administration of local regulations will also be discussed.

Session 3: Solar Energy Regulation                            7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

This course addresses the authority of local governments to regulate photovoltaic solar energy systems—from modest residential and agricultural systems to larger, utility-scale solar facilities. Environmental and economic benefits and aesthetic challenges are discussed, and tools such as the New York State Unified Solar Permit are provided to allow solar arrays and regulate their impacts.

There is no fee to attend the sessions.

See the attached registration form:

May 15 & June 5:

Using the Columbia County Natural Resources Inventory

The Columbia County Environmental Management Council announces a land-use training workshop for

municipal officials, including members of town boards, planning boards, conservation advisory councils, and

committees involved in planning or zoning.

This workshop offers an overview of the Columbia County Natural Resources Inventory, its content and uses, and small group work using the document. 

The Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) is a reference document that summarizes and analyzes information about the physical, biological, and cultural

aspects of the natural environment that shape Columbia County's landscape.  Participants will be introduced to one or more onlinemap tools that

provide natural resource information, complementing the NRI. 

Certificates of participation will be provided for municipal training credits (3 hours).

Two sessions offered:

May 15 - 6:00 – 9:00 pm    Copake Town Hall, 230 Mountainview Road, Copake, NY

June 5   - 6:00 – 9:00 pm    Columbia-Greene Community College, 4400 Route 23, Hudson, NY

Pre-registration is required; seating is limited.

There is no fee to attend.

Registration Form:

May 28 & 29:

Small Streams: Values, Threats, and ProtectionHudsonia and the DEC Hudson River Estuary Program are pleased to offer a NEW two-part evening workshop and field trip on the importance of small streams.

Tuesday & Wednesday, 28-29 May 2019, 5:00-9:00pm

DEC Region 3 office, 21 South Putt Corners Road, New Paltz, NY

Through presentations, map analysis exercises, and field observations we will discuss the ecological values of small streams, how to identify unmapped streams on site plans, other maps, using online tools, and in the field; threats to stream habitats and water quality; the status of state and federal regulatory programs for small streams; and how to extend local protections to these important resources.

The workshop is especially for municipal officials, including members of planning boards and conservation advisory councils, and for members of watershed groups, land trust staff, and others who are regularly engaged in town-wide planning, reviewing land development proposals, advising landowners, or making land management or regulatory decisions.

To Register:

The event is free-of-charge but registration is required.

Contact Lea Stickle at lstickle@bard.edu or at 845-758-7053 by 24 May.

Or, you may apply online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8LJTB6P.  

Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Municipal training certificates will be available. Dinner will be provided both evenings

This program is held in partnership with Cornell University and the NYSDEC Hudson River Estuary Program, and funded by the NYS Environmental Protection Fund.

May 15:

Hudson Valley Natural Resource Mapper Webinar

DEC's Hudson River Estuary Program is offering a webinar about the Hudson Valley Natural Resource Mapper on May 15, 2019, from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The Natural Resource Mapper is an online, interactive tool with over 30 geographic data sets identifying important habitats and water resources, as well as scenic and recreation areas in the Hudson River estuary watershed.

The webinar will introduce participants to the mapper layout, functions, and data layers and provide examples of applications for local conservation, land use, and watershed planning.

Register now!

April 30:

DC Planning Federation:

Spring 2019 NYS DOS Sessions

Session 1: Planning Board Overview

Session 2: SEQRA Basics and New Regulations

Date: Tuesday April 30, 2019

Time: 4:00–8:30 pm (light supper available at 6:00)

Where: Dutchess County Farm & Home Center, 2715 Route 44, Millbrook NY 12545

Cost: $5 for one / $10 for both – Includes program(s) and supper. Pay at the door via cash/check/voucher made payable to DCPF.

Speakers:

Patricia Burke, Local Government Specialist, NYS Department of State Division of Local Government

Paula Gilbert, Local Government Specialist, NYS Department of State Division of Local Government

Register*: CLICK HERE for 4/30 course information and to register

Upcoming Biodiversity course:

Date, speakers and course specifics to be determined. Stay tuned for more information!

April 22:

Cornell Cooperative Extension, Capital Area Agriculture & Horticulture Program

Animal Regulation Issues for Local Governments

Cornell Cooperative Extension is hosting a multi-site webcast meeting on Monday April 22, 2019 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. The meeting will provide information and guidance for town and village board members regarding issues with small lot landowners who want to have farm animals for either personal or business use. The trend for urban agriculture is not occurring only in large metropolitan areas. The greater Capital District has a number of homeowners who wish to grow their own eggs, meat and produce. Many local governments are being forced to react to situations based on neighbor complaints, animal welfare or pollution concerns. This meeting will provide information and a chance to ask questions of several departments: Agriculture and Markets, Local Government Training and Cooperative Extension. They will shed some light on issues as well as resources for addressing the problems. There will be ample time to question the experts.

Zoning is among the methods of solving these animal and agricultural conflicts. However, there are still numerous actions and decisions a town can implement.

We hope you will encourage members of your board to attend the meeting at one of the locations (Hudson, Hudson Falls, Troy or Voorheesville).

To register please visit https://tinyurl.com/AnimalRegulationIssues 

For more information contact Sandy Buxton 518-380-1498 

Capital Area Ag & Hort Program

Cornell Cooperative Extension

415 Lower Main St

Hudson Falls, NY 12839

Office: 1-800-548-0881

Cell: 518-380-1498

email: sab22@cornell.edu