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TOWN OF GRANBY
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
July 12, 2005
MINUTES
Present: Paula Johnson, Chairwoman, Margaret Chapple, James Sansone, Linda Spevacek, Frederick Wilhelm, Francis Armentano, Director of Community Development and Edward Sweeney, Town Engineer.
The meeting opened at 7:06 p.m.
Public session: There was no public comment.
ON A MOTION by James Sansone, seconded by Fred Wilhelm, the Commission voted to approve the minutes of June 28, 2005 with the following additions: Page 3, add to #1 after 4.7 “as the applicant did not adequately demonstrate that safety would not be compromised if the distance between intersections was reduced.” Page 3, add to #2 after 8.14.1.5, “as the applicant did not demonstrate compliance with the criteria that such waiver will result in a reduction in the length of subdivision roads.” All approved.
Continuation of a public hearing on an application for a Special Permit and Site Plan for the development of a restaurant with alcoholic beverage permit, live entertainment and sign per Section 8.6.13, for property located at 18 Hartford Avenue, File Z-18-05, resumed at 7:08 p.m. Tammy Tanner, applicant, began the presentation by stating that the original dome shaped addition has been changed to a more traditional design. This was done in recognition of the concerns that were raised at the previous hearing. Ms. Tanner presented the Commission with a detailed information packet addressing all changes. Kevin Dagnon, Project Architect, described his desire to blend the 1940’s Streamliner diner with the necessary addition. He described the plans to screen the addition behind the diner and
to incorporate design elements from the diner into the addition. The basic dimensions of the addition are 30 by 40 feet, with a seating capacity of 40. The diner measures approximately 14 x 40 feet with a seating capacity of 44. The kitchen and restrooms will be located in the addition. Mr. Dagnon reviewed the exterior colors and materials of the addition. Ms. Tanner presented a colored picture of the interior and exterior of the diner. Scott Hesketh, Traffic Engineer, submitted a traffic report and discussed the findings of the report. In general, he feels that the volumes of traffic will be fairly low and that the two access points, from Route 189 and Merchants Way are sufficient to service the proposed use. While he might prefer a T intersection on Merchants way, the low traffic volumes make the off setting intersections acceptable. The possibility of connecting the Post Office driveway with the proposed driveway was discussed. The Commission discussed an easement over
the subject property to allow for the future connection of the PO driveway. The hours of operation and the types of entertainment were discussed. Ms. Tanner noted the addition would be used for a piano bar and musical entertainment. Ms. Tanner seeks permission to retain the original and historically accurate building sign. This sign utilized individual neon lettering. George Andrews, Engineer, reviewed parking, pavement materials, sewer connection and other site details. Edward Sweeney discussed the sewer connection requirements and drainage. Chairwoman Johnson suggested placing a sidewalk along the south side of Merchants Way. During the public comment portion of the meeting, both positive and negative opinions were expressed. The buildings fit with the center was discussed, as was the type of clientele that might frequent such a facility. The need to accommodate the parking of large trucks was suggested and concerns were
voiced for the serving of alcoholic beverages. The public hearing closed at 8:13 p.m.
Margaret Chapple entered at 7:35 p.m.
Public hearing on an application for a Special Permit for the Retail Sale of Antiques within an R2A Zone for property located at 74R Silkey Road, File Z-19-05, opened at 8:16 p.m. Louisa and John Mayock introduced themselves as the owners and applicants as well as Joyce Kennedy-Raymes, partner in the antiques business. Also present was Attorney Kate Woloski. Mrs. Mayock stated they have lived at their present location for 11 years with their 4 children and gave a brief overview of the application. Ms. Raymes presented a map and photos of the property, barn and house. She indicated the Mayock’s property is located 500 feet back from Silkey Road and is well buffered from neighboring properties. Mrs. Mayock reviewed the regulations regarding the Special Permit for antique sales and
the criteria to be applied. She stated that an invitation to view the property was extended to all the area neighbors. The building official has stated that the upstairs of the barn could not be used for retail sales/public access. Mrs. Mayock stated that all sales would take place in accordance with the building code and that sales could be moved to the main floor of the barn, as necessary. The proposed hours of operation would be Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and weekdays by appointment only. The applicant asked that the weekend hours be applied to Fridays, 4 times per year. A large number of Silkey Road residents voiced their concerns and disapproval of the application. Most felt that retail establishments should not be permitted within this residential area. The residents expressed concerns for lost privacy and security and a possible reduction in property values. The existing speed, safety issues due to the
increased traffic and dangerous curves on Silkey Road were discussed. Other items of concern were advertising, signs, crime, impact on the rural character, buffering, parking and access. Mr. Reynolds reviewed the access to the applicant’s property, which is over property owned by his parents. Mr. Reynolds stated his concerns were for property values, parking on their property, visibility and the liability over the right of way. Two neighbors spoke in support of the application. The file contains a variety of letters, against and in support of the application. The public hearing closed at 9:32 p.m.
The Commission took a five minute recess.
The discussion of an application for a Special Permit for FRD Subdivision, final phase of development for Cider Mill Heights, File Z-5-05, will be held July 26, 2005.
The Commission set the public hearing for an application to renew a Special Permit for earth excavation for property located a 536 Salmon Brook Street, File Z-17-05, for July 26, 2005.
The meeting adjourned at 9:51 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Dorcus S. Forsyth
Recording Secretary
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