I want to provide an update regarding a recent pre-application to the Planning and Zoning Commission on January 15, 2025, concerning a potential development proposal for 49 single-family homes on approximately 16 acres of land at the intersection of Booth Hill Road and Unity Road.
First, it is important to note that this was not a formal application to the Planning and Zoning Commission but a pre-application. The pre-application process is designed to gather input and feedback prior to the submission of a formal application. While these meetings are open to the public, they are informal and non-binding for all parties involved.
During this recent pre-application meeting, several Planning and Zoning Commissioners raised important initial concerns. One commissioner strongly suggested that any proposed housing development should be age-restricted to 55 years and older. Additional concerns were expressed regarding the proposed density, the challenging topography of the site, environmental factors including a waterway and wetlands, and traffic and safety considerations.
This site has many challenges. However, property owners have certain rights to develop their land, nonetheless I strongly encourage the developer to embrace the Planning and Zoning Commission’s request to limit any development to age-restricted housing, which would mitigate the school impact. Additionally, the area’s challenging topography and traffic conditions call for a reduction in the proposed density to ensure safety and feasibility.
I share the concerns of many who have commented in the community on this potential development. Should a formal application be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Commission the public needs to be heard at the land use meetings as the process unfolds including the Planning and Zoning Commission meetings. All the agendas for town meetings are posted on the Town website.