The intervenors would rather see more of Newtown's limited open space lost than redevelop sites on a main road, across from the highway, with existing infrastructure? The irony is that the water and sewer was run up Oakview during the High School addition which facilitated Toll Brothers to build their condo development on what was horse pasture where Native American artifacts could be found (Pootatuck camp site.)
I was sorry to learn that Richard has passed. I was surprised to learn that he was a Waterbury native like myself. He was a GREAT teacher and while we did not always agree when it came to things of a political nature he always respected my (and other students opinions). He taught us that it was OK to agree to disagree. RIP Richard.....
William St Arnauld, Charlotte, NC
To be clear, this letter was also from Jordana Bloom. The Bee did not want to put all three names on the letter for space reasons, but all three of us sent this letter as well as our thanks to the voters for trusting us to continue the work.
I’m honestly confused by the objection to “cut-throughs.” Newtown is full of them, and they’re used every day without issue. Some of the more well-known examples are Elm Drive, Oakview, School House Hill, Pearl Street, Head of Meadow, Country Club Road, Point of Rocks, Hall Lane, Tinkerfield - Old Taunton Press, and Samp Road. I’m sure I’m even missing a few.
Given that, it’s hard to understand why this particular development is being singled out. Cut-throughs are a normal and longstanding part of how traffic moves in town. If they’re acceptable everywhere else — including roads that are narrower, steeper, or more heavily used — it seems inconsistent to suddenly treat this one as a crisis.
I want to clarify that the attorney at last week’s Planning & Zoning meeting was not threatening the commission, but explaining how the law works. The reality is that if we do not reach a compromise, 100% there will be lawsuits — it’s not a matter of intimidation, it’s a matter of legal process.
We all want smart growth and a Newtown that welcomes families, but it’s important to approach these conversations with a clear understanding of the legal framework. Recognizing the inevitability of legal challenges when consensus isn’t reached doesn’t undermine local control — it helps ensure that planning decisions are made thoughtfully and proactively.
