Farmington Zoning Commission Battles Noisy Vacuums and Poop Management in Thrilling Session

Town Plan and Zoning Commission Debates Vacuum Noise and Dog Poop Management

In a meeting that could only be described as riveting, the Farmington Town Plan and Zoning Commission gathered on June 10, 2024, to tackle a variety of pressing issues, including the decibel levels of vacuums at a car wash and the installation of a poop-friendly zone for dogs. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

Roll Call and Attendance Shannon Rutherford, the town planner with an unmatched enthusiasm for zoning, kicked off the meeting by confirming the presence of the commissioners. Everyone was accounted for except Liz Sanford and Kyla Zimmerman, leading to alternate Mike Tucci heroically stepping in for Sanford.

Business Highlights

1. Russell Speeder’s Car Wash Proposals:
   • Wanamasa Lane Site: Representatives TC Nallis, Matt Bregeman, and consultant Phil Henry dazzled with their proposal for minor site improvements, including pay stations, additional vacuums, and facade enhancements.
     • Vacuum Noise Levels: The commission delved deep into the auditory implications of three-motor vacuums. Apparently, nothing gets people talking like a discussion on whether vacuums are too loud.
     • Operating Hours: Confusion reigned as the hours fluctuated between 8 AM to 6 PM and 8 AM to 8 PM. Stay tuned for more gripping updates on this saga.
     • Motion to Continue: Because what fun would it be if everything got decided in one meeting? This topic will resurface on June 24.
   • Scott Swamp Road Site: In an encore presentation, the same trio proposed identical improvements for another car wash, with equal attention to vacuum noise and operating hours.
     • Noise and Hours: More debates on the decibel levels of vacuums, because who knew car washes could be so controversial?
     • Motion to Continue: Another riveting discussion tabled for June 24.
2. KPC LLC Withdrawal:
   • In a plot twist no one saw coming, KPC LLC withdrew their application, leaving the commission with one less topic to debate.
3. New Applications and Acceptances:
   • The commission accepted an application from Christopher Stevenson for a super-sized accessory structure at 26 Skyline Drive. Mark your calendars for July 8, 2024, to see how this drama unfolds.
4. Public Hearing Continuation:
   • The 10-lot subdivision by Farmington West Estates was continued to the June 24 meeting, proving that some things are just too thrilling to resolve quickly.

Planner’s Report and Administrative Decisions

Shannon Rutherford unleashed a flurry of updates:

• Starbucks Coffee (830 Farmington Avenue):
  • In a caffeine-fueled decision, Starbucks got the green light to move their siren logo and simplify their banner. Administrative approval was granted, because who can argue with coffee?
• Flip Circus Event (500 West Farms Mall):
  • The circus is coming back to town! With no issues from last year, the commission enthusiastically approved the event for July, proving that sometimes, the show must go on.
• Dog Park at Up House (15 Farm Springs):
  • A new dog park installation sparked discussions on poop management and liability. The commission ensured that property owners would maintain responsibility for cleaning up after their canine tenants.
    • Poop Management Plan: Daily inspections and cleanups will keep the park clean, making it a relief area worthy of the finest canines.
• Temporary Storage Container (62 Spring Lane):
  • Rainco’s request for a temporary storage container was approved, with the condition of installing evergreen screening to keep things looking as pretty as a storage container can.
• Housing Forum Participation:
  • Commissioners Rosea Afshar and Bruce Polsky were roped into attending a forum on affordable and diverse housing in New Haven. Will they return with groundbreaking ideas or just another layer of complexity? Stay tuned.
• Best Cleaners HVAC Installation (1684 Farmington Avenue):
  • A ground-mounted HVAC unit was proposed due to safety concerns. Pending further noise level information, the commission deferred the decision, because why rush into something as exciting as HVAC installation?

Future Focus

The commission will reconvene to once again tackle the exhilarating topics of vacuum noise and HVAC installations. Plus, look forward to the Farmington West Estates public hearing and the housing forum in New Haven for even more zoning excitement.

For ongoing updates on the thrilling world of local planning and zoning, visit We Are Farmington, proudly sponsored by Farmington Storage at 155 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, CT. For more information, contact them at 860.777.4001.

Meeting Adjournment The meeting wrapped up with the approval of minutes from the May 20, 2024 meeting, bringing an end to an evening of unparalleled excitement in Farmington’s growth and development.

Thank you to our sponsor, Farmington Storage, for their ongoing support of We Are Farmington.