The Albion Village Planning Board moved swiftly through its agenda Thursday evening, June 13, greenlighting a new business venture for West State Street and setting the stage for a potential update to village signage rules. Meeting for just over 30 minutes at Village Hall, the board focused largely on procedural approvals and the early stages of code review. Business Expansion on West State The most substantive action of the night was the unanimous approval of a Special Use Permit for the property at 471 West State Street. The permit allows for automotive repair activities at the site, legally designated as parcel 73.5-1-2. According to the minutes, a motion was made by board member Michael Massaro and seconded by Janet Navarra to approve the use. The vote carried with all members in favor. The approval clears the way for the property owner to conduct automotive repair business, a use that typically requires specific permission under village zoning law to ensure it fits with the character of the surrounding neighborhood. Sign Code Review on the Horizon In addition to the site-specific business, the board turned its attention toward broader village policy. Members discussed the current regulations regarding signs within the village. Following a discussion, the board voted formally to review Code §290-11, known as the Sign Regulations. This motion, made by Massaro and seconded by Samuel Robinson, indicates the board may be considering clarifications or changes to how signs are regulated locally. Specific details on what aspects of the sign code are targeted for change were not detailed in the minutes, but the vote to "review" suggests the matter will be agendized for deeper discussion at an upcoming meeting. Procedural Items Prior to the main business, the board handled several standard procedural items required under New York State law. Board members accepted the minutes from their previous meeting held on May 9, 2024. They also signed a Zoning Referral that Orleans County had sent to the village regarding 210 South Main Street, a standard step allowing the village to weigh in on a zoning matter the county referred to it. Attendees and Next Steps The meeting was chaired by Karen Conn. Board members Michael Massaro and Jeff Holler were present at the call to order, with Navarra joining shortly after the meeting began. Samuel Robinson joined later in the session. Village Trustee McMurray and Code Enforcement Officer Chris Kinter were also in attendance, along with two members of the community. The Planning Board is scheduled to meet next on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Residents interested in the proposed changes to sign regulations or other planning matters are encouraged to attend.