Navigating Zoning Challenges: The Debate Over Pools, Regulations, and Aesthetics in Farmington
The January 21, 2025, Farmington Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) meeting offered a spirited mix of legal nuance, community aesthetics, and procedural debate. The focal point? A variance application for a swimming pool at 1 Alcott Way in Farmington, CT, was brought forward by Giuliano’s Pools and their representative, Danielle Levasseur, Permitting Coordinator at Giuliano’s Pools, located at 321 Talcottville Road, Vernon, CT.
The Pool Predicament
The applicants sought relief from Article IV, Section 2(C) of Farmington’s zoning regulations. The rule requires pools on corner lots to be placed behind the rear of the home as measured from the longest wall concerning both streets. However, as Levasseur explained, the property’s septic system is located squarely in the center of the backyard, creating a significant hardship for the homeowner.
“We tried to move it as close to that system as feasible, but there simply isn’t enough space to meet all the requirements,” Levasseur told the board via Zoom.
This arrangement placed the pool partially in the required rear yard and partially in the side yard, violating the regulation.
Attendance Debate: To Zoom or Not to Zoom?
Adding to the drama, the applicant’s remote participation stirred controversy. Chairman John Schoenhorn expressed frustration over the absence of an in-person representative, stating, “We all came out on a very cold and somewhat icy night to be here, and it would seem to me that a homeowner and a company building a swimming pool that’s asking us to waive our zoning regulations would have the courtesy to appear in person.”
Levasseur responded, explaining her distance from Farmington as a resident near the Massachusetts border and the homeowner’s unforeseen absence. Ultimately, the board agreed to proceed, though several members shared concerns about setting a precedent for remote attendance in zoning matters.
The Trees Talk
A public comment submitted by Pat Masozi, who did not provide an address, supported the application with a caveat:
“I suggest that you vote to approve this only upon installation of additional screening trees. It is very important that there is a condition that the maintenance of evergreen or similar trees is kept forever with this property on the deed,” Masozi wrote.
Levasseur noted that the homeowner was willing to plant additional trees to screen the pool from Mountain Spring Road, a scenic roadway with significant visual exposure during the winter months.
Approval with Conditions
After reviewing the application and considering public input, Commissioner James Callahan motioned to approve the variance, with a condition for planting evergreen trees to shield the pool from public view. “This ensures the visual impact of the pool is minimal while allowing the homeowner to use their property as they see fit,” he explained.
The board approved the motion 5-0, with Schoenhorn abstaining.
Beyond the Meeting Room
Chairman Schoenhorn announced that the town’s land-use attorney, Robert D. Crescenzo, is working on clearer guidelines regarding remote participation for future zoning applications. “This isn’t about convenience—it’s about ensuring the public can meaningfully engage and that the board can make informed decisions,” Schoenhorn said.
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Acknowledgment
This coverage is brought to you by Farmington Storage, located at 155 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, CT. Give them a call at 860-777-4001 for all your storage needs.
About the Author
Jack Beckett runs on coffee ☕ and civic curiosity. When not untangling Farmington’s zoning mysteries, you’ll find him experimenting with latte art or cracking dad jokes.
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