The Planning Board consists of five members, each appointed by the Town Board for a five year term. Terms are staggered in order to promote a fluid transition when a member is replaced and to retain experience. Board members include Joann Rogers, David Parsons, Nathan Harvey, Robert Drayn and Robert Stryker. Teresa Abbott is the Board's Secretary and our alternate voting member.

Late last year the Planning Board began the process of reviewing the town's local zoning ordinances. Some portions were no longer applicable or in need of clarification. Tedious work, but the results will make the review process clearer and thus compliment the goals set forth by the Town's Comprehensive Plan.

Applications before the Board started off slow but have increased significantly this year. The majority of applications are for the minor sub-divisions of property. An informational meeting before the board is encouraged prior to a formal meeting and public hearing. During the formal review process the Planning Board is also required to complete an environmental review known as SEQR (State Environmental Quality Review). The purpose of this review is to "incorporate the consideration of environmental factors the existing planning, review, and decision making processes ... to determine if the action may have a significant adverse impact." At the local level, the SEQR process assures that the goals set forth in Bristol's comprehensive plan are maintained. This year the Town purchased a projector that allows the board to review projects on a large screen. This has proven to be a great tool in assisting the board with the review process.