Plans for a grocery store and ice cream shop inched forward on Wednesday, April 8, as the Pine Plains Planning Board reviewed a proposal to redevelop the former Deuel’s Home Center property at 7723 South Main St., one of several projects discussed during a busy meeting.
The grocery and ice cream shop are part of a broader redevelopment of the South Main Street property owned by Christopher Gumprecht, where a cannabis dispensary was approved in December 2025 and will occupy the historic weigh station building.
The proposal calls for demolishing three structures and constructing a new building to house a grocery store while renovating another building for an ice cream shop. The plan also includes new parking, landscaping, utilities, and pedestrian-friendly improvements along the front of the property.
Application materials indicate the project would include a 9,000-square-foot grocery building and the restoration of an existing structure — including a porch addition — for use as an ice cream shop. Plans also show redesigned parking areas, stormwater management infrastructure, lighting, and a new septic system.
Board members requested that a sidewalk be added along the front of the property and discussed whether the revised proposal would require a new environmental review. Town attorney Warren Replansky said that because the proposal involves demolition and construction of a new building, a new SEQR review would be necessary.
The project represents the next phase of development for the site, which had previously received Planning Board approval for a cannabis dispensary expected to open in the coming weeks. The submitted plans show 55 parking spaces, including ADA-accessible spaces, and a layout designed to improve pedestrian access between the grocery store and ice cream shop.
.Applicants must now seek a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals to exceed lot coverage limits before returning to the Planning Board.
Former Lias’s property discussed
The board also heard a preliminary proposal for the former Lia’s Restaurant property at 7685 Route 82.
Angela Somma, who currently hosts events in a barn in Claremont, is considering purchasing the property to create a multi-use venue. Her early concept includes a bar with a limited menu during the week and weekend events such as food trucks, outdoor music, and games.
Somma also asked whether a small number of tiny homes could be placed at the rear of the property for overnight guests who book the space for weddings or events. However, town officials noted that the parcel falls into two zoning districts, and the more restrictive zoning would apply. Somma was advised to seek a zoning change from the Town Board if she wishes to pursue lodging.
CEEN cited over propane trucks
Earlier in the meeting, the board discussed CEEN Properties at 2775 Church St., where officials said the current use may differ from what was approved.
Chair Mike Stabile said the property had been approved for seasonal equipment storage.
“Seasonal equipment storage — boats, campers, RVs. We asked, Will there be trucks or trailers? The answer was ‘no,’” Stabile said.
Board members said propane trucks are now being parked overnight at the site.
“Propane truck distribution was not agreed to. The use of the property is not as approved,” Stabile said.
Officials also raised concerns about a driveway easement and safety issues related to propane vehicles. CEEN’s representative said the applicant would return with an amended site plan.
Storage facility project continues
HTWO Properties also presented revised plans for additional storage units and a retail farmstand building at 2814–2816 and 2812 Church St.
The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a lot coverage variance, but the Planning Board requested additional materials, including stormwater and lighting plans, before the project can proceed.
Board members also requested written clarification that the proposed use qualifies as retail under town zoning.
The next Pine Plains Planning Board meeting is scheduled for May 13.
Im sure the gorgeous grocery store will not come to light. Pine Plains is to back wards. they don’t like new bussiness and the planning board delays and costs applicants thousands. Would be great to finally have a thriving store again but these boards will just delay and delay and delay until the owner gives up or goes broke. SAD atleast we have some good cannabis coming to town. Maybe the board will partake and chill out a bit.