At its meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 13, the Pine Plains Planning Board scheduled a Sept. 10 public hearing for a proposed cannabis dispensary at 7723 South Main St.
Brian Seiler and Benjamin Abrahams operate a cannabis dispensary in Red Hook, Upstate Pines, and seek to open a second location in Pine Plains. The property is owned by Christopher Gumprecht, who, in May, said the dispensary would be the first tenant in a planned “Weigh Station Marketplace.”
On Wednesday, the Planning Board received further details of what that marketplace might consist of.
Architect Kristina Dousharm and engineer Zak Hall of Kristina Dousharm Architecture described plans to convert the former weigh station into a cannabis shop, Upstate Pines. The updated site plan calls for a new parking lot behind the dispensary with an entrance from Railroad Avenue, a move intended to avoid delays in securing a state Department of Transportation permit for direct access from Route 82.
While the current application seeks only a change of use, site plan approval, and a special use permit for the dispensary, the presentation also outlined potential future uses for the property’s other buildings — including a grocery store in the former Duell’s hardware building and an ice cream shop. Board members noted those ideas are not yet concrete, but agreed to review the site’s overall environmental impact now to streamline approvals if the additional businesses proceed.
Board members discussed several site details, including parking, handicapped-access requirements for the building, and the placement of a septic system large enough to serve any future retail operations. Building Inspector Eddie Cassaza noted that state rules may allow a waiver for accessibility modifications if the cost exceeds 20% of the original restoration. The applicants said they will consult with the state on the issue before the public hearing.
Other business
The board approved a lot-line adjustment for HTWO Properties, LLC, on Church Street.
A special use permit and site plan for an accessory dwelling unit on the Patterson/Schultz Hill Farm property were approved.
Owners of 3032 Church St., the former Patchin House site, said rising costs have postponed plans to build a replica of the historic home. Their accessory dwelling unit will serve as the main residence for now, and they plan to landscape the lot.
The board scheduled a public hearing for 7:50 p.m. on Sept. 10 to discuss a special use permit for a tiny home to house seasonal polo workers at 441 Carpenter Hill Road.
Chair Michael Stabile raised concerns about the Conservation Advisory Council’s proposed natural resources and greenhouse gas inventories, questioning whether they might lead to restrictions on development.
The public hearing on the dispensary will begin at 7:35 p.m. on Sept. 10 at Town Hall.