P&Z Rejects Huntingtown Road Subdivision Proposal

 By Andrew Gorosko

The Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) has rejected a residential subdivision application to create 5 lots at 75 Huntingtown Road.

P&Z members unanimously turned down the development application of Robert Breza December 16. P&Z members rejected the application because the plans submitted did not meet many technical requirements of the zoning and subdivision regulations, including rules concerning front yard setback distances, the minimum square for house construction, lot frontage requirements, a water storage tank for fire suppression, and limitations on the removal of earth material. The site is 15 acres.

Also, P&Z members determined that land proposed for open space for passive recreation does not meet the P&Z’s open space land goals and objectives.

P&Z members also decided the proposed subdivision is located in a floodplain, but the applicant did not present sufficient information to ensure the development will be reasonably safe from flooding, or that development of the land will not adversely affect the floodplain.

Also, the P&Z expressed concerns that two of the driveways the proposed for the subdivision would not have proper sight lines for motorist safety, according to P&Z records.

The applicant also did not present to the P&Z proper documentation that all people within 500 feet of the site were formally notified of a December 2 public hearing on the application.

At the December 2 hearing, P&Z members pointed out many flaws in the application and suggested that it be withdrawn and revised. The applicant did not withdraw the proposal, resulting in its December 16 rejection by the P&Z.

At the December 2 hearing, P&Z member Heidi Winslow told Paul Bombero of Bombero Associates of Trumbull, representing Mr Breza, that town land use regulations do not allow residential properties to be served by fire sprinkler systems instead of a water storage tank for fire protection. The applicant had proposed fire sprinklers for the houses.

At the hearing, P&Z Chairman Daniel Fogliano, noting many deficiencies in the application, suggested that the applicant return to the P&Z with new plans. Mr Fogliano suggested that the applicant provide a better open space parcel, create building lots with more regular shapes, and include a water storage tank in the development plans.