|
|
The OSAH appendix to the proposed Rhinebeck Comprehensive Plan recommends formation of an OSAH Committee, consisting of seven members appointed by the town board, to administer affordable housing zoning law.
The OSAH addendum recommends that membership include representatives of the town board, planning board, zoning board and Comprehensive Plan Committee. Discussion is open for additional members to be included, who will act in a liaison capacity.
Members of the original OSAH Committee will review this draft. Members of the town board will then review it for approval, according to Crane.
"The first committee set the stage," Crane said. "The second committee could be an outgrowth - it's really semantics.
"The first committee recommended the appendix to the Comprehensive Plan and zoning law and also that a second committee be formed with the mission of implementing the recommendations imbedded in the OSAH appendix," he continued. "Their role will be to refine more global strategies."
The eventual administration of OSAH could be carried out on a day-to-day basis by additional town personnel or outside agencies, such as county experts on the subject, according to Crane.
Rhinebeck resident architect Bob Wills, co-chairman of the original committee, asked Crane at the board meeting why his input wasn't requested regarding the current OSAH draft.
"There is plenty of time," Crane responded. "We're just in the initial stages."
Crane added that he would also seek input from community members like planner Ted Fink, open space advocate Sally Mazzarella and attorney Warren Replansky.
Crane said Rhinebeck should avoid an aggressive housing plan that squeezes out smaller, affordable housing.
He said affordable housing could complement the town's open space goals through increased multi-family dwellings and senior housing units, such as the recently completed Red Hook Commons development on the former Perx site in Red Hook.
The interpretation of the new zoning law regarding land use issues will be a statement of the values of the town and directions it will take, according to Crane.
He said he is striving to determine through the OSAH Committee draft what is realistic in maintaining open space and affordable housing, while guarding against lawsuits.
