Still Anticipating Veterinary Hospital At Fairfield Hills

By Kendra Bobowick

Since January, Fairfield Hills plans have been poised to accommodate a veterinary hospital. Delays, however, have one selectman concerned.

After hearing a brief explanation from attorney Fran Pennarola, Selectman Paul Mangiafico told him, “This could be viewed by some as something wrong.” Mr Pennarola represents Glen Mountain LLC, which has asked for time extensions before closing its deal to renovate space in Woodbury Hall and lease the property from the town for $760,000. Is something wrong with the lease agreement? Something wrong with the mortgage?

Mr Pennarola had explained at a recent selectmen’s meeting: Glen Mountain LLC has a commitment from Newtown Savings Bank to receive funds to lease and renovate Woodbury Hall. Contingencies, however, require an appraisal that could take “a couple of weeks,” he said. The bank is looking to justify the loan.

A second contingency “will take a little longer.” He anticipates an evaluation of the tenant’s business model, “to make sure it makes sense in the real world.” The last step? The appraisal and business model have to go before the US Department of Agriculture. Why? “They have agreed to be a guarantor of the loan,” said Mr Pennarola. Catching Mr Mangiafico’s raised brow, Mr Pennarola noted, “Newtown is rural enough to be eligible” for a program under the Department of Agriculture. This process also takes weeks, he said.

Adding up the time, Mr Pennarola was looking at mid-July. “By that time we should have an unconditional commitment,” he said. Once the mortgage paperwork is in hand, the tenant — Glen Mountain LLC, which represents two veterinary professionals — has 45 days to close the deal.

“The tenant is anxious,” Mr Pennarola assured selectmen. Already, Glen Mountain LLC is talking about early entry to begin asbestos remediation, he said. “I think that shows a commitment to go forward.”

Thinking for a moment, Mr Mangiafico brought conversation back to delays, “They are viewed by some as something really wrong.” Although Mr Pennarola asked for time through July 31, Mr Mangiafico said, “Why not make it August 31?” He wants to be sure that Mr Pennarola and his client have ample time. “I don’t want you coming back and asking again,” he warned. He further stressed that another potential request for an extension could create the wrong impressions. “Delays present a picture to the public that something is very wrong.”

Mr Pennarola answered, “I think if the selectmen extend to August 31, we would close before that.” He agreed, however, that the August extension “is the safest thing to do.”

First Selectman Joe Borst added, “With the information out people will feel more comfortable.”

“The tenants are serious,” Mr Pennarola stated. “They think it’s a good location and good facility for them.”

Selectman Herb Rosenthal looked to Fairfield Hills Authority Chairman Bob Geckle. Was the chairman comfortable with the deal? Without comment regarding the business evaluation or appraisal, Mr Geckle said, “It is in all our best interest to get it done.” Regarding asbestos and paint remediation, he said, “I agree it shows they’re serious.” He wants the building occupied. “Having that entity on campus is important; I think we should work through the process with them.”