Stamford Planning Board Meeting

This meeting of the Stamford Planning Board took place on Tuesday, February 25, 2026. The board convened with three members present and addressed a capital budget addition, multiple zoning board of appeals (ZBA) referrals, and routine approvals. Key actions included unanimous approval of a capital budget item for bridge replacement and split recommendations on several variance applications.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of February 10, 2026 Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the prior meeting.

Discussion Items

• Capital Budget Addition – Mill Road over Brookbridge (Project CP 4000, Bridge #13508): The mayor requested adding $1 million (split 50/50 between bonds and a state grant) to replace a structurally deficient bridge built in 1960. The project is currently partially closed. Board members discussed the process (supplementary appropriation vs. capital budget), and the item was approved unanimously (moved by Ravi, seconded, all in favor). The board noted the $500,000 bond impact but confirmed the addition is at the mayor's level and does not affect the board's own budget.
• ZBA Application 010-26 – M. Rachim at 0 Fairfield Avenue (Lot 1): Applicant proposes a two-family dwelling on a 4,972 sq ft lot (R-5 zone requires 6,000 sq ft for a two-family). The lot is vacant and has been used for dumping. Applicant provided 4 parking spaces (including two for an adjacent lot they own) and an open greenway. Board members expressed concern about setting a precedent for a significant lot size variance (about 17% below minimum). The board recommended denial (unanimous), citing no hardship and the need for uniform zoning changes rather than spot variances.
• ZBA Application 011-26 – Paul Publis at 36 Congress Street: Applicant seeks a front yard setback variance of 5.1 ft (required 25 ft) on Keith Street for an addition. The property is in the R-2 zone, and the existing dwelling is legally non-conforming due to the corner lot definition. Board recommended approval (unanimous).
• ZBA Application 012-26 – William Hayed for Sharon Axe at 41 Idlewood Place: Applicant requests a rear yard setback variance of 24.6 ft (required 30 ft) to expand a sunroom/enclosed space. The property is in R-2 zone. Board recommended approval (unanimous).
• ZBA Application 013-26 – Anna and Cliff Blaze at 75 C Beach Drive: Applicant proposes a first-floor bedroom and bathroom addition for elderly parents (ages 83 and 87) and a second-story addition. The variance requested is for lot coverage: 51.6% (proposed) vs. 20% maximum, with 49.5% existing. The building coverage remains under 20%. The property is in R-1 zone and near Long Island Sound. Board members acknowledged the compelling personal hardship but noted the small increase (2.1%) and encouraged runoff mitigation. Recommended approval (unanimous) with a note to consider reducing impervious surface impacts.
• Variance Not on Agenda – Family Centers at 986 Bedford Street: A sign variance was not referred to the Planning Board because it does not affect density, bulk, or parking. The item was pulled from the agenda.

Key Outcomes

• Capital Budget Addition: Approved unanimously for Mill Road bridge replacement.
• ZBA Application 010-26 (0 Fairfield Avenue): Recommended denial (unanimous) – lot size variance deemed too large to set precedent; board suggested comprehensive zoning review instead.
• ZBA Application 011-26 (36 Congress Street): Recommended approval (unanimous).
• ZBA Application 012-26 (41 Idlewood Place): Recommended approval (unanimous).
• ZBA Application 013-26 (75 C Beach Drive): Recommended approval (unanimous) with encouragement to address stormwater runoff.
• Next Meetings: March 10, March 24, and April 14, 2026 (confirmed no conflict with spring break).

Note: The meeting date from the transcript is February 24, but the user specified February 25, 2026. The summary uses the specified date.