FALLSBURG — In South Fallsburg's Senior Center, nearly a dozen residents sat to listen to the town's scheduled public hearing regarding the 2018 Updated Comprehensive Plan Amendment.

Although only one person spoke at the hearing, the town received advice on how to implement changes and alternatives to some aspects of the proposed plan.

The plan, which was initially adopted in October of 2006, seeks to aid the “future growth and development with the Town of Fallsburg in a manner that respects the Town's rural character so that its unique sense of place is enhanced; its agricultural, historic, and natural resources protected; its hamlets revitalized, and its social-economic vitality ensured for years to come.”

Samuel Wright, a representative for the Catskill Mountainkeeper located in Livingston Manor, thanked the board for the work that they have done in updating the Town's plan. He commended them for “bringing the draft zoning documents more in line with the existing and proposed comprehensive plan documents.”

However, Wright recommended that the board make a few alterations to the proposed plan.

According to him, “The 2018 Draft Zoning Amendments do not include the recommended zoning supply or aqua for protection overlay in the district.” Wright stressed that the town board should consider how other towns have adopted a conservation design process into their zoning regulations. “At the very least, we ask the town to set forth a plan…that incorporates standards, not guidelines for the conservation design process and a timetable for implementation into the town's zoning.” Additionally, he encouraged the board to consider including areas of the Neversink area in the town's agricultural mapping plans.

No final decisions were made during the meeting regarding the updated plan, but residents who wish to provide comments are encouraged to send written notes to the town clerk's office located in South Fallsburg. The next town board meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 23, 2018. at 6 pm at 19 Rail Road Plaza, South Fallsburg.