Warwick board adopts zoning change for Kings Highway parcel, clearing path for two-family dwelling

The Town of Warwick Board on June 25 adopted Local Law No. 2, changing the zoning designation of a parcel at Kings Highway (Section 94, Block 4, Lot 55.2) from Office Industrial (OI) to Suburban Medium Density (SM). The applicant on record is Highway 3 LLC; town staff said the parcel will become a single residential lot not eligible for further subdivision and that the proposal on file is for a split-level two-family dwelling.

Supervisor Dwire outlined permitted uses under the current OI district — which, he noted, can include manufacturing, hotel, business offices, or other industrial and commercial activities — to explain why the board believes residential zoning better matches surrounding uses. He said the nearest OI parcel lies across the railroad tracks and that the parcel is otherwise surrounded by residential zoning.

The board completed SEQR review by approving an Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) and adopting a negative declaration before enacting the local law. After the public hearing and consideration of the EAF, the clerk conducted a roll-call vote that recorded four ayes, zero nays and one absence; the local law was adopted and the supervisor was authorized to sign the required documents for filing.

Town materials indicate the owner has offered a lot-line conveyance to the town as part of the approval process; the local law’s effective date is set to occur upon completion of the lot-line change and recording with the Orange County Clerk and filing with the New York State Secretary of State.

The board’s action follows the planning-board review and public notice process described at the meeting; staff said any required environmental review for later construction activity will follow normal state and local procedures.