Officials Approve Projects to Keep the Town Stable (Literally)
Gabion Baskets, Concrete, and Lumber—It’s Like HGTV, But With Government Permits
FARMINGTON, Conn. – A town-owned sawmill, a growing erosion problem, and a new clubhouse patio—these were just a few of the topics tackled at the Farmington Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commission meeting on March 5, 2025.
With Chairman Ned Stachin absent, the meeting was led by an acting chair. The commission discussed several projects aimed at infrastructure improvements and environmental preservation, approving plans that will impact local farmland, recreation spaces, and municipal storage.
Farmington’s Sawmill to Get a New Home at 8750 Roma Drive
In one of the more unusual agenda items, Justin Stone, civil engineer for the Town of Farmington, detailed plans to build a covered concrete pad at 8750 Roma Drive to house a town-owned sawmill. Yes, Farmington has a sawmill.
The sawmill is used to process lumber for fence posts and other materials needed for town projects. The plan includes a milled driveway connecting the existing road to the new covered structure and requires the removal of two eastern hemlock trees.
Commissioners had previously reviewed the project on February 19, 2025, determining it was a non-significant regulated activity. With no objections raised, Commissioner Marcus Simpson made a motion to approve the project, seconded by Commissioner Andre Simons.
💬 “So… we’re in the lumber business now?” one commissioner joked. The motion passed unanimously.
Erosion Control for Culp Community Garden at 8484 Meadow Road
At 8484 Meadow Road, erosion is threatening the Culp Community Garden and its adjacent farmland. A drainage swale, critical for diverting runoff from 1.8 acres of farmland into the Farmington River, has expanded due to severe erosion, now measuring between four and six feet wide and four feet deep. The worsening erosion is pushing into pathways used by pedestrians and farm vehicles.
Town Planner Shannon Rutherford presented a plan to install gabion baskets—wire baskets filled with stone—to stabilize the swale. These baskets will be placed one foot below the swale’s bottom, extending about 30 feet north from the trail edge.
Commissioner Neil Kelsey asked whether other swales in the area faced similar issues. Rutherford confirmed there are additional swales needing work, but the town will monitor this project first before expanding efforts.
The commission determined that the project qualified for an agricultural exemption under Section 4a1 of local regulations, meaning it can move forward without additional permitting. The motion passed unanimously.
Westwood Clubhouse at 35 Westwood Drive to Get a Safer, More Accessible Patio
Jesse Catano, Farmington’s new Recreation Director, presented a proposal to replace the deteriorating wooden deck at the Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse, located at 35 Westwood Drive.
The existing deck is elevated five to six inches and has become a safety hazard. The new stamped concrete patio will be level with the ground, improving ADA accessibility while reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Justin Stone explained that the project also includes roof drains to prevent water from pooling on the patio. These drains will direct runoff into the soil, slightly encroaching on the upland review area near a nearby brook.
Commissioners acknowledged the minor environmental impact and voted to approve the project as a non-significant regulated activity, allowing it to proceed without additional hearings.
💬 Commissioner Mark Simpson asked whether this upgrade was part of broader changes at the clubhouse.
“Yes,” Catano confirmed, noting the addition of Carol’s Lunchbox, a new food vendor set to operate at the course.
“More golfers, more food, and now a bigger patio? Sounds like a good deal,” one commissioner quipped. The motion was approved unanimously.
Commissioners Ensure Public Involvement
The meeting emphasized transparency and public participation in town planning. While no residents raised comments, commissioners reaffirmed that meetings remain open for the public to provide input on conservation and infrastructure issues.
Recognizing a Longtime Contributor
The commission also acknowledged the retirement of a longtime member, expressing appreciation for their dedication to Farmington’s environmental and conservation efforts.
All Meeting Participants
Commissioners Present:
- Richard Berlandy
- David Fox
- Robert Eisner
- Neil Kelsey
- Marcus Simpson
- Andre Simons
Town Staff Present:
- Bruce (Clerk)
- Justin Stone (Town Civil Engineer)
- Shannon Rutherford (Town Planner)
- Jesse Catano (Recreation Director)
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About the Author
Jack Beckett is The Farmington Mercury’s senior writer, fueled by an unholy amount of coffee and a deep love for town meetings where things actually get done.
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