TOWN OF GRANBY
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 9, 2008
Present: Paula Johnson, Chairwoman, Daniel P. Brown, Jr., Margaret Chapple, Linda Spevacek, Charles Kraiza, Paul Lambert, James Sansone and Francis Armentano, Director of Community Development, Ed Sweeney, Town Engineer.
The meeting opened at 7:01 p.m.
Public session: There was no public comment.
ON A MOTION by Paula Johnson, seconded by Margaret Chapple, the Commission voted to approve the minutes of July 22, 2008. Linda Spevacek and Charles Kraiza abstained.
Public hearing on an application to amend Section 8.18 of the Zoning Regulations concerning Special Flood Hazard Areas opened at 7:02 p.m. Fran explained that the Town of Granby has voluntarily participated in the National Flood Insurance Program since February 15, 1980. The NFIP is founded on a mutual agreement between the federal government and the Town of Granby. The proposed amendment is required under the National Flood Insurance Program and the changes will aid in protecting properties from flooding and help to reduce the cost of flood damage. The Commission members asked about any possible impact that the changes might have on property values. Fran discussed the Flood Insurance Rate maps. The old maps were at a scale of 1” = 1000’ and the new maps are 1”
= 200’. The improved scale will make it easier to discern if a property is in or out of the flood zone. Fran also pointed out that the Commission must apply the regulations as proposed and should development be allowed within the floodplain in violation of the regulations then the Town could be held liable for the cost of future flood damage. Discussion ensued among the members in regards to properties in town and the flood hazard areas along the Salmon Brook River. Ed Sweeney clarified many of the general questions for the members. Fran suggested that the Commission adopt the amendment by September 25. There was no comment from the public.
The Commission discussed the discontinuance of Fox Road. The commission reviewed the memo from the William Smith, Town Manager noting that the most of the property surrounding the road is undeveloped and owned by the State of Connecticut. The memo also noted the existing bridge and the future cost of replacement.
ON A MOTION by James Sansone, seconded by Paul Lambert the Commission voted to recommend the discontinuance of Fox Road. Linda Spevacek wanted it noted that the reason for this recommendation is that the road does not serve the needs of the general public. All approved.
The Commission reviewed sketches of new signs for Kelly Lane and Wells Road Schools. After much discussion the board agreed that there should be some uniformity within the Town as a whole for such signs. The Commission voiced concern that the two signs are very different from the style of other Town signs. The Commission members wanted to look at other area signs and view the neighborhood where the signs are proposed to be located. It was suggested that the Development Commission prepare a standard guideline for all signs in Town, with similar size, shape and colors. The Commission is aware they have 35 days to make a recommendation on this issue. They postponed a decision until the next meeting.
The Commission set the public hearing date on the application by Steve Janeski for earth excavation for properties located at 100 and 114 Wells Road, 45 Meadow Brook and 537 Salmon Brook Street. Paula asked if the Commission could take a field trip to look at the property. Fran agreed to set it up. The Commission agreed to hold the Public Hearing on September 23, 2008
The Commission received an application for 21 and 23 Hartford Avenue for the construction of Windsor Federal Savings Bank building. There was some discussion on the two properties and on the basic site plan design. The Commission will consider the site plan on September 23, 2008.
Commission Discussion of Items of Interest or Concerns.
Fran reported on Powder Mill Lane. It has been more than 5 years since the subdivision was approved. In accordance with the approval all public improvements should have been completed by January of 2008. The Town holds a $70,000 cash bond to assure the completion of the public improvements. Fran asked that the Commission consider taking action in accordance with Section 8.26c of the Connecticut State Statutes. This action would enable the Town to make the public improvements. Put Brown voiced concern over the ramifications to the current homeowners. Fran stated that he will look into the matter further and will continue to discuss it with the Town Attorney.
Fran noted the Development Commission will hold a Public Workshop regarding the future of the Town Center on Monday, September 22nd at the Senior Center. He commented how important it is to get as much public input as possible with regards to the development of Granby’s Town Center.
Fran briefly commented on Housing Rehab program.
Finally, Fran commented on zoning violations.
Linda Spevacek inquired as to when the new Town parking lot off route 20 will be complete. Ed Sweeney noted all requested information has been submitted to the State for approval of the road entrance. The Town is waiting for the approval.
ON A MOTION by Put Brown, seconded by Linda Spevacek, the Commission unanimously voted to approve the amendment to Section 8.18.5 of the Zoning Regulations concerning Special Flood Hazard Areas, as the regulations were designed in accordance with the wishes of the NFIP and will aid in reducing the impact of future flooding.
The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Annemarie Winsor
Recording Secretary
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