Changes Aim at Concerns as Commission Passes West Street Business District

When residents and business owners came before the Southington Planning and Zoning Commission in July, the plan was met with mixed reactions and concerns that the proposed map would cut properties in half and negatively impact quality of life.

Those issues have been deemed addressed.

Members of the commission voted unanimously on Tuesday evening to pass the new West Street Business District, a zone extending from Spring Street north to West Queen Street that will include commercial and mixed-use commercial/residential development opportunities.

The changes made developed a new map that did not cut through property lines and further included language designed promote continued and improved quality of life for existing residents of the area.

“This is a plan that builds on the previous work of this commission,” said Paul Chaplinsky, vice chairman to the commission and chair of the West Street Subcommittee. “It fosters economic development and minimizes traffic impact of further build out along the corridor.”

The discussion Tuesday revolved around new language drafted to provide intent for homeowners should they want to build upon or sell their homes. The language is designed to promote continued and improved quality of life by providing a guideline for the Zoning Board of Appeals should existing residents seek additions to their property.

But Commissioner James Sinclair said he is concerned that the “intent” could change when passed on.

The discussion began after residents including Ronald Tooley said in July that the zone changes appear to squeeze residents out of their homes.

“I’ve been living in my home since 1979 and the plan presented here appears to try and squeeze those of us with old homes out,” Tooley said in July. “You aren’t kicking me out. It’s terrible what’s been done to West Street already and this will only make it worse.”

Sciota said the intent helps address the issue, however, and is legally all the commission can do to establish protection. The final decision ultimately falls to the Zoning Board of Appeals, he said, though existing residents could sell their property as a residential dwelling without needing to go before the board.

Chaplinsky said he believes the plan also addresses properties, fitting them within the zones they requested.

“We have gone through and taken everyone’s concerns seriously and addressed as many as possible,” he said.

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