Rick Albrecht

Our current Zoning Regulations already address this issue, and the Planning and Zoning Commission is focusing on additional remedies in their current draft of the new Plan of Conservation and Development.

We now have two subdivisions designed to allow one acre lots provided that a certain number of the homes fit into the State-defined 'Affordable' category. (We must remember that 'Affordable' in Middlesex County is different from, for example, New Haven County.) The lots still have to have the required suitable area of Class 1 soils that can support on-site septic systems so not every property would be suitable. These 'Affordable' houses may also be constructed with accessory apartments; otherwise P & Z only allows accessory apartments in home five years old or older - a restriction that could be modified. Current P & Z regulations also allow for duplex (two-family) houses; however they must be on larger lots and have individual septic systems. This might be changed to save money by allowing a single larger septic system (which probably would be the same as some of the larger homes in town).

I have previously said that I would like P & Z to adopt regulations that include an 'Active Adult - 55 & older' zoning category. Chester and Haddam have enacted these types of regulations and have actually attracted away some of our vital residents.

The Housing Partnership Committee has made some thoughtful recommendations after their review of the proposed undated Plan of Conservation and Development. Comments have been made that we need to provide 'Affordable' housing for our children and the generation of volunteers needed to maintain our volunteer Fire and Ambulance services. This has been partially addressed by a Tax Abatement Program - presently, if they can get in to a reasonably priced starter or 'Affordable' home they may receive a $1000 tax abatement which could be a significant portion of their annual bill.

The current economy and the situation with the existing housing market might actually be creating more 'Affordable' housing units than could be created through regulations. P & Z has researched the current number of listings for homes that are moderately priced.

In summary, this is a complex issue. I believe a more comprehensive approach than some additional one-acre-lot subdivisions is needed to address housing needs to maintain a viable multifaceted and multi talented community.