Farmington Homeowners Address Backyard Expansion Plans Amidst Concerns

Farmington, CT – May 6, 2024—The Town Plan and Zoning Commission of Farmington held a meeting on Monday evening to review various local projects, including an ambitious backyard expansion proposed by local resident Marcel Mirambo. The project, which involves placing additional fill to enlarge the backyard at 721 New Britain Avenue, has raised concerns among neighboring homeowners and town officials.

Seeking More Play Space

Marcel Mirambo, the homeowner, presented his case to the commission, explaining his motivation for the project. “I want to put more fill in enclosing my backyard because I have kids. You know, I have a trampoline, and they need more space to play around,” Mirambo stated.

However, the commission’s review revealed that the fill had already been placed without prior approval, prompting a retrospective discussion on the project’s compliance with town regulations. Shannon Rutherford, Town Planner, emphasized the need for proper procedures to ensure safety and compliance.

Addressing Concerns

During the meeting, Commissioner Bob raised several questions about the fill’s placement and its potential impact on neighboring properties. “I understand you went about this a little bit the wrong way but that’s all right we’ll try and figure it out,” he remarked.

Neighbors also voiced their concerns about the project. Liz, one of the commissioners, highlighted the potential risks posed by the current state of the fill, describing it as “more cliff-like than any sort of grading.” The steep slope of the fill could pose dangers not only to the Mirambo family but also to adjacent properties.

Conditions for Compliance

To bring the project into compliance and address the concerns raised, the commission outlined several conditions that Mirambo must meet:

1. Regrade the Fill: The fill must be regraded to a safer slope. The current slope, described as “cliff-like,” must be adjusted to a 2:1 slope to ensure stability and safety.
2. Drainage Solutions: Proper drainage solutions must be implemented to prevent water runoff from affecting neighboring properties. This includes creating a swale on Mirambo’s property, not adjacent properties, to effectively manage stormwater.
3. Fencing Regulations: Any new fencing must be set back at least five feet from the property line and include a gap at the bottom to allow water flow and prevent blockages.
4. Remove Covered Trees: Trees that were cut down and covered with fill must be removed to prevent future sinkholes caused by rotting.
5. Install Topsoil and Seed: The area must be covered with at least four inches of topsoil and seeded to ensure proper ground cover and stability.

Marcel Mirambo expressed his willingness to work with the town to address these issues and ensure the safety of his property. “I pay for the fence and I got scared because I see so many bears in my backyard even two weeks ago all my garbage was around my you know around my backyard that’s why I want to fence the house you know the house but it’s going to be under me,” Mirambo explained, highlighting another aspect of his backyard project – the need for a fence to keep wildlife out.

Community Impact

The case of Marcel Mirambo underscores the importance of following proper channels when undertaking significant property modifications. While the desire for more play space for children is understandable, it must be balanced with safety and regulatory compliance.

As Farmington continues to grow and develop, projects like these highlight the need for clear communication and collaboration between homeowners and town officials to ensure the community remains safe and well-regulated.