Farmington’s Urban Makeover: Carwashes, Solar Panels, and Coffee Galore!

Farmington Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Highlights

In a recent Town Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on June 24, 2024, various key decisions and discussions took place that will shape the future of Farmington, Connecticut. The meeting, chaired by Liz Sanford in Scott Halstead’s absence, included significant discussions and resolutions on various development projects, providing insight into the town’s evolving landscape.

Roll Call and Opening Remarks

Shannon Rutherford, the town planner, called the meeting to order, confirming the presence of the commission members: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Bruce Polsky, Mike Tucci, and Kyla Zimmerman. The absence of Robert Canto and Scott Halstead was noted, and Liz Sanford acted as the chair for the evening.

Key Agenda Items and Decisions

1. Russell Speeder’s Carwash at 41 Omasa Lane
   • Presentation and Approval: Phil Henry and his team presented modifications for the site plan, addressing concerns about noise from vacuum systems. The proposal included switching to a central vacuum system with noise attenuation measures. The commission discussed the placement and enclosure of the vacuum units, considering the impact on nearby residential areas. The plan was approved unanimously with conditions to ensure compliance with noise ordinances. Votes in favor: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Bruce Polsky, Mike Tucci, Kyla Zimmerman.
2. Russell Speeder’s Carwash at 362 Scott Swamp Road
   • Presentation and Approval: Similar to the Omasa Lane location, this site’s modifications included transitioning to a central vacuum system with one unit inside the building to minimize noise. The commission emphasized the importance of sound attenuation and appropriate placement of the vacuum system. This proposal was also approved unanimously with specific conditions. Votes in favor: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Bruce Polsky, Mike Tucci, Kyla Zimmerman.
3. Ground-Mounted Solar Array at 161 Talcott Notch Road
   • Presentation and Approval: Thomas Kenny presented a plan for a ground-mounted solar array, emphasizing the benefits over a rooftop installation due to shading issues and structural constraints. The array will produce enough energy to offset the home’s consumption and feed surplus back into the grid. The commission reviewed the site plan, noting the environmental benefits and sustainable energy production. The plan was approved unanimously. Votes in favor: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Bruce Polsky, Mike Tucci, Kyla Zimmerman.
4. Land Swap Request by WD2 LLC at Banbury Crescent
   • Discussion and Positive Referral: A land swap was discussed between the town and WD2 LLC. The swap involves exchanging a 4,157 square foot piece of town open space for a 4,751 square foot parcel from WD2 LLC, providing a net increase in open space and better environmental protection for the Unionville Brook area. The commission discussed the implications of the swap, including environmental impact, public benefit, and precedent. The proposal was supported for its environmental benefits and maintaining contiguous town open space. The commission issued a positive referral to the town council with conditions for further oversight by the Inland Wetlands Commission. Votes in favor: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Mike Tucci, Kyla Zimmerman. Opposed: Bruce Polsky.
5. Expansion of Daily Grind at 17 Depot Place
   • Administrative Approval: The Daily Grind coffee shop’s expansion into the adjacent vacant barbershop space was administratively approved by Shannon Rutherford. The expansion increases seating capacity from 6-8 seats to 14 seats while maintaining compliance with parking requirements and accessibility standards. The commission noted the importance of supporting local businesses and ensuring minimal impact on parking.
6. Monument Sign for Uphouse on Farm Springs Road
   • Administrative Approval: A new monument sign for the Uphouse, replacing the existing Marriott sign, was administratively approved. The new sign, compliant with zoning regulations, will be edge-lit to provide a halo effect. The commission reviewed the sign dimensions and lighting to ensure they met the town’s standards.

Public Hearings Continuations

1. Farmington West Estates Limited Partners Subdivision
   • Hearing Continued: The public hearing for a 10-lot subdivision at Governor’s Pride off Snowberry Lane was continued to July 8, 2024, due to the applicant’s request. Votes in favor: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Bruce Polsky, Mike Tucci, Kyla Zimmerman.
2. CPD Properties, 342 Colt Highway LLC
   • Hearing Continued: The public hearing for a new fuel service station, convenience store, and quick service restaurant at 342 Colt Highway was also continued to July 8, 2024. Votes in favor: Matthew Bandle, Rojia Afshar, David St. Germain, Liz Sanford, Bruce Polsky, Mike Tucci, Kyla Zimmerman.

Conclusion and Adjournment

The meeting concluded with the approval of the June 10, 2024, meeting minutes and an official adjournment at 8:30 PM. The commission’s decisions and discussions reflect a commitment to thoughtful urban planning, environmental stewardship, and community development.

Thank You to Our Sponsor

We extend our gratitude to Farmington Storage for sponsoring the We Are Farmington website. Farmington Storage is located at 155 Scott Swamp Road. For more information, you can call 860.777.4001.

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