Manlius · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Manlius public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Cannabis farm odors in Kirkville
Residents near a state-licensed cannabis farm on Hoag Road say the smell is overwhelming and worry about children nearby. The town is exploring zoning and legislative options but can't act retroactively against the existing farm; a proposal is expected in about a month.
Battery energy storage system zoning
The town is drafting zoning rules for battery energy storage systems — the same tech people put in garages for electric cars, plus larger commercial installations. Key questions include setbacks, parcel siting, and whether small sites should be accessory uses or separate lots. It'll come to the Planning Board for comment before adoption.
Accessory structure height regulations
Board members noted the town's 17-foot height limit comes before them constantly for large buildings because snow-load engineering forces taller trusses. The zoning advisory committee is studying the code.
Residential setback variances for accessory structures and pools
A 40-by-80-foot commercial-storage pole barn next to a residence split the board: height relief passed, but the side-yard setback was denied after a neighbor raised noise and proximity concerns. The applicants still need a rural occupation special use permit from the Planning Board.
Unpermitted cannabis greenhouse odor complaints
Neighbors near Hoague and Poolsbrook say a cannabis grow operation built a greenhouse without permits and the smell is overwhelming their homes, with headaches and ruined outdoor activities. The town says enforcement is in motion but constrained by state appeal timelines.
Missing middle housing — county On Home LDC
County Legislator Denton presented a new $25 million county fund offering low- and zero-interest loans to build affordable 'missing middle' housing, which could benefit Manlius projects.