Board schedules July 20 public hearing after DEC declines jurisdiction for Hudson Valley Volkswagen wetlands

The Wappinger Planning Board moved to schedule a planning-board public hearing on July 20 after staff reported the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation declined jurisdiction over wetlands adjacent to the proposed Hudson Valley Volkswagen site.

Staff explained that while the DEC does not assert jurisdiction, the wetland remains a town wetland and will require a town wetland disturbance permit; the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' jurisdiction was noted but staff said no Corps buffer permit was required in this case. The board also listed materials still needed for review, including a town wetland analysis report and documentation showing lot-line and septic/well arrangements.

The board and applicant agreed July 20 is the next available meeting to hold the required public hearing and continue review. Staff said remaining technical comments on turning radii and drainage appear resolvable and can be handled through follow-up with engineering consultants.