Matter of Woodland Community Association v Planning Board of Town of Shandaken

This article 78 appeal was brought against a judgment dismissing petitioners’ application to review a determination of respondent Planning Board of the Town of Shandaken granting respondent Good Water Corporation’s application for site plan approval and a special use permit.

In 2006, respondent Planning Board approved a special use permit to Good Water Corporation for the proposal to collect and haul away water to be sold for non-potable uses such as filling swimming pools. Petitioner, Woodland Community Association, in an article 78 proceeding sought to have the Planning Board’s resolution annulled. The Supreme Court dismissed the petition which prompted this appeal by petitioners.

The Court agrees with petitioner’s argument that the Planning Board lacked jurisdiction to determine the water collection was a special use permit. The Town Zoning Code only identifies “water bottling and related uses” as being relevant to a special use permit. Good Water’s proposed use did not involve the bottling of water at any location. Only the Zoning Board of Appeals has the authority to interpret the Code’s provisions and the Code expressly states that a special use not specifically listed is prohibited unless deemed a similar use by the ZBA. Thus, the Planning Board had no authority to approve Good Water’s application for a special use permit.

Accordingly, the Supreme Court ordered the judgment reversed, without costs, petition granted, and matter remitted to respondent for further proceedings not inconsistent with Court’s decision.