First Selectman Announces P&Z Vacancy

First Selectman Pat Llodra announced this week that any interested registered Democrat or unaffiliated voter can come forward to be considered for an open position on Newtown’s Planning & Zoning Commission.

The current vacancy on the P&Z was created following the resignation of Richard English, according to the town clerk’s office. Democrats being nominated through the town committee, or who wish to tender their interest individually, along with any unaffiliated voter, are advised that the closing date for applications is March 19.

This commission is responsible for promoting the orderly and coordinated development of the town, and the general welfare and prosperity of its residents. The P&Z controls and directs the use and development of property in a municipality, or a large part of it, by dividing it into zoning districts.

The commission regulates the principal and accessory uses permitted within these districts. It is a policymaking board, versus an advisory body. Commissioners are elected to four-year terms, and the board consists of five regular members and three alternates.

The commission meets the first and third Thursday of every month at the Municipal Center at Fairfield Hills. Regular meetings start at 7:30 pm.

The following applications go before the P&Z: subdivision and resubdivision of land; special exception permits; site development plans; change of zone; amendments to their regulations; sand and gravel mining permits; and accessory apartments in an outbuilding. The Newtown P&Z Commission also functions as the Borough of Newtown’s Planning Commission.