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TOWN OF GRANBY
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 23, 2008
Present: Paula Johnson, Chairwoman, Daniel P. Brown, Jr., Margaret Chapple, Paul Lambert, James Sansone, Linda Spevacek and Francis Armentano, Director of Community Development and Edward Sweeney, Town Engineer.
The meeting opened at 7:03 p.m.
Public session: There was no public comment.
ON A MOTION by James Sansone, seconded by Paul Lambert, the Commission voted to approve the minutes of September 9, 2008 with the following correction: Paragraph 4, sentence 1 should read, ON A MOTION by Paul Lambert, seconded by Margaret Chapple, the Commission voted to approve the minutes of July 22, 2008. All approved.
Public hearing on an application for earth excavation and removal, under Section 9 of the Zoning Regulations, for property located at 100 and 114 Wells Road, 45 Meadow Brook Road and 537 Salmon Brook Street, Janeski property, File Z-11-08, opened at 7:04 p.m. Hal Pierce, Pierce Builders, referenced the previous application and presented a site plan for the proposed area of excavation and the area of newly completed pastureland. He stated that the existing farm currently operates with between 100 and 150 beef cattle and needs to expand its pastures for additional livestock. The application proposes to excavate and remove approximately 150,000 cubic yards of sand over an area of 8.4 acres. This area would be graded to blend with surrounding properties and used for additional pasture land. The
applicant proposes to undertake the operation Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm, beginning December 1, 2008. Excavation and removal will cease no later than April 30, 2008 and the site restoration will begin no later than May 1, 2009. The earth material that is removed from the site will be delivered to the Tilcon site located at 536 Salmon Brook Street during operating hours with the exception of the following dates: December 21, 2008 through January 5, 2009. Mr. Pierce reviewed the existing contour plan, haul pattern, grading and restoration plan. He also stated Pierce Builders will use 4 trucks for hauling the materials, water trucks will be used for dust control, hydraulic covers will be used to cover material while hauling. There will be no processing of material on site at any time and earth banks will be left at a safe slope. Fran commented on the previous application and the successful completion of the project. He noted that he
received only a few minor complaints throughout the entire operation. He explained the activity that would take place on each of the 4 properties that are identified in the application. A Meadowbrook Road neighbor expressed concern for well water, drainage/ponding and inquired about the proximity of the hauling to their home. He also asked about bonding. Several Fern Hollow Drive residents spoke favorably about the operation and the way it was undertaken. They noted it was a well run operation. They are now enjoying the cows on the property and have noticed other wildlife in the area. John Dallen, 11 Fern Hollow Drive, stated this is not an allowable usage for this area. He stated that the prior operation caused house vibrations, noise and inconveniences. In his opinion the property needs to be regraded as there is ponding in some areas. He felt that the arborvitaes are not properly spaced; there are odors and noise from
the cows and he is unhappy about the use of an electric fence near his property line. He submitted various materials for the file. Public hearing closed at 7:52 p.m.
The Commission held a discussion concerning an application for a site plan under Section 4 of the Zoning Regulations for property located at 21 and 23 Hartford Avenue, File Z-12-08. Guy Hesketh, Engineer, F.A. Hesketh, 36 Granby Farms Road reviewed the site plan for a Branch Bank Building for Windsor Federal Savings Bank. Currently this bank branch is located across the street at 22 Hartford Avenue. The proposed site contains 2 acres in a C2/R30 zone. The development would be located within the front portion of the site in the C2 zone. The proposed access to the new bank is located directly across from Bank Street with easy ingress and egress. There will also be a vehicular linkage between the subject property and Cumberland Farms. Mr. Hesketh addressed parking, drainage, public
water, sewer, under ground utilities and infiltration for storm water system and sidewalks. He noted that the applicant would like to relocate the existing sign from across the street, to this site. David Pokras, Architect, presented a rendering of the proposed 3,000 square foot, traditional design building with a brick exterior. Mr. Pokras also reviewed the landscaping plan and noted that it is in conformance with the rest of the Town Center. Fran Armentano stated that the applicant would require a special permit for the sign. He also discussed the exterior lighting and recommended that the lights mirror the lights that are located along bank Street. The applicant agreed with this recommendation. A member of the public inquired about the drive-up windows and ATM. A letter was received from the Development Commission.
The Commission continued a discussion of a consideration of Board of Selectmen referral per Section 8-24 of the Connecticut General Statutes regarding the construction of freestanding signs at the Wells Road and Kelly Lane Schools. The Commission’s recommendation is attached and made a part of these minutes.
The Commission continued a discussion of possible action in accordance with Section 8.26c of the Connecticut State Statutes regarding Powder Mill Road. At this time, the Commission is still considering the appropriate action and recommended discussion continue at the October 14, 2008 meeting. Powder Mill Lane residents encourage the Commission to take action to allow the pavement of this road.
Staff Reports and Correspondence:
Fran reported that Cider Mill Heights is fully paved and an agreement has been made to permit school buses to travel on the newly paved section of roadway.
The Commission inquired about Broad Hill Road.
It was noted that Weed Hill Road has been cleaned up and made more passable.
Chairwoman Johnson asked Fran to put together notes for the next meeting concerning the application for earth excavation and removal, under Section 9 of the Zoning Regulations for the Janeski property, using the previous approval for reference.
Chairwoman Johnson also requested that Fran prepare approval notes for the Commission’s consideration for 21 and 23 Hartford Avenue application.
Fran commented on the September 22nd Public Workshop concerning the future of the Town Center, stating that it was well attended and constructive comments were given.
The meeting adjourned at 9:17 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Dorcus S. Forsyth
Recording Secretary
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