The intent of this § 220-9A is to recognize the unique character of the existing development in the downtown area of the Hamlet of Callicoon, which is situated in the CAL-B-1 District. This area has long served as the central business district of the Hamlet of Callicoon and is largely comprised of buildings constructed prior to 1940. Most buildings have no or only minimal front yards and are set either very close to or directly upon side lot lines. Most of the area is covered with impervious surfaces — buildings, sidewalks, roads, alleys and parking areas. Parking on main street, existing on-lot parking areas, and Town-owned parking lots appears to be adequate to meet current needs and any anticipated needs of future development.

Given this "downtown" character, the Town has identified the need for special standards governing the erection of new buildings and the alteration, addition to and enlargement of existing buildings in the downtown area. The standards are intended to allow the reasonable expansion of existing businesses and the development of new business in character with existing development, while concurrently providing for the public health, safety and welfare.

The special standards in this § 220-9A shall apply to the Downtown Overlay District as designated in Subsection A(3)(a) of this section. All other requirements of this chapter which are not specifically addressed by this § 220-9A, including, but not limited to, the use provisions of the CAL-B-1 Schedule of Uses,[2] shall continue to apply to the Downtown Overlay District.