CLAY — A major step toward transforming the Great Northern Mall into a regional medical complex was taken Dec. 10, as the Town Planning Board granted preliminary approval for the subdivision of the massive 121-acre property. Representatives from Conifer LLC told the board that the company is working closely with SUNY Upstate Medical University to build a "major medical complex" on the site. The subdivision, known as Great Northern Subdivision 3, splits the land into a 13-acre parcel and a 108-acre remnant, both retaining Regional Commercial zoning. "This would give Conifer their own timeline to move forward," said Tim Coyer, representing the applicant. Gary Hart, addressing the board on behalf of the project, indicated that a more detailed site plan would be presented to the Town Board and Planning Board within the next 30 to 60 days. The Planning Board voted 7-0 to approve the preliminary plat and issued a negative declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR), determining the project would have no significant environmental impact. **Equestrian Center Seeks Final Approvals** In other business, the board heard from Cheryl White regarding the proposed Clay Equestrian Center at 9605 Black Creek Road. The project aims to build a 30,000-square-foot barn on an 87-acre parcel for boarding and training. The plan includes 18 to 20 horse stalls and two attached dwelling units for staff. White noted that the facility will not host horse shows but will focus on boarding and training. Board members and residents raised concerns about site logistics. Chairman Russ Mitchell and Member Karen Guinup questioned the lack of a lighting plan on the site drawings. Steven Calocerinos, project engineer, said wall pack lighting would likely be installed and details would be provided. Resident Roy Beeles of 9611 Black Creek Road spoke in favor of the project but expressed concern over drainage swales on his property that have caused flooding. Chairman Mitchell advised Beeles to bring the drainage issue to the Town Board to put it on the official record. The board adjourned the public hearing until Jan. 14, 2026, to allow the applicant to address septic system requirements from the Health Department, finalize wetland delineation with the DEC, and solidify plans for manure storage. White indicated the facility would use a fully enclosed compost system rather than open piles. **National Grid Expansion Approved** The board voted 7-0 to grant a special permit to National Grid for a new metal shredder line at its Investment Recovery Facility, 4651 Crossroads Park Dr. Matthew Bural of Nelson Associates said the shredder will process aluminum conductor cable reinforced with steel. The installation includes a 17,700-square-foot concrete slab and a small control building. Operations are expected to run from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The board issued a negative SEQR declaration, agreeing with the applicant's noise calculations and finding the use consistent with the area's industrial character. **Church Expansion Explored** A public hearing was also held for Northside Baptist Church, located at 7965 Oswego Road. The church is seeking an amended site plan to construct an 18,977-square-foot addition that would serve as a worship space capable of converting into a recreational gymnasium. The expansion requires the demolition of 7,607 square feet of the existing church. While the plan requires a 25-foot rear yard setback where 50 feet is typically required, the Zoning Board of Appeals previously granted a deviation for this in November. Board Member Hal Henty asked about exterior lighting. Architect M. Alex Samoray said bollard lighting would be installed in the front, wall pack lighting on the expansion, and pole lighting in a new patio area. Chairman Mitchell suggested the applicant consider asking the town to abandon Gettman Road to facilitate site access. This hearing was also adjourned to Jan. 14, 2026. The board also tabled a final plat for Conifer LLC until the January meeting.