The town of Oneonta in New York is evaluating changes to its zoning regulations that could impact the future of campground developments in two districts.
At a public meeting on April 10, the Oneonta Town Board deliberated on a proposal that would require campgrounds in the town’s RA-40 and RA-80 districts to secure a special permit in addition to undergoing a comprehensive site plan or sketch plan review, a departure from the current by-right use policy.
According to a Daily Star report, the proposed regulations also aim to tighten requirements: setting a minimum lot size of 50 acres for campgrounds, and imposing a minimum frontage of 200 feet.
Fred Clapper voiced apprehensions about the new requirement, suggesting that it could lead to unfair treatment and the arbitrary revocation of permits based on a few complaints. However, Town Attorney Rob Panasci clarified that revocation would only occur if the permit terms were violated, not merely based on public grievances.
During the meeting, the conversation highlighted a case involving local landowners Fred and Dana Clapper, who recently proposed developing a small seven-site campground on their 133-acre property, Clapper’s Maple Ridge Ranch. This agritourism-focused project brought to light the potential benefits and detriments of such developments. Supporters of the campground cited economic and recreational benefits, while oppositions expressed fears about possible disruptions to the area’s tranquility, including increased noise, light pollution, and traffic.
In February, Oneonta officials reviewed a proposed moratorium on new campgrounds. The suggestion for the moratorium was initiated by local resident David Koehn, who is concerned about a potential new campground near his property. The town’s Legislative Review Committee met on February 5 to review Koehn’s proposal along with other related legal adjustments.
During the meeting, the implications of the proposed moratorium were examined. While public input was not allowed, the moratorium’s importance would allow Oneonta to carefully reassess its zoning codes and regulations. This review would be crucial, particularly for addressing issues related to short-term rentals and campground regulations, ensuring an evaluation of the town’s policies.
For campground and RV park owners, the discussion around these zoning changes provides insight into how best to manage development in a way that supports economic growth while preserving the area’s nature, and adhering to the town’s regulatory requirements.
