Stamford Zoning Board Meeting - April 30, 2024

Note: The meeting was called to order on Monday, April 29, 2024 at 6:36 PM, but the assigned date for this summary is April 30, 2024.

The Stamford Zoning Board convened on April 30, 2024 to consider several applications, including a special permit for a public charitable institution, a text amendment to the zoning regulations, a proposed adult-use cannabis dispensary, a site plan approval, and an extension of time. The meeting also included public comment on multiple items and a discussion about returning to in-person meetings.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Family Centers Inc. (986 Bedford Street): One public speaker, Monika Twal, asked about the organization’s services and tax implications but did not explicitly oppose the application.
• Butter Cannabis (389 West Main Street): Numerous speakers testified. Supporters cited medical benefits, regulation safety, and community need. Opponents raised concerns about proximity to the Yearwood Center (Boys & Girls Club), traffic, crime, and the location's impact on children. Notable speakers included Uzma Zakir (pharmacist in support), Daphne Dussault (neighbor opposed), Kendria Walshen (opposed on location), Theodore Ginochis (in favor), Patrick Casey (opposed), Yvonne Ferrer (opposed), and many others. A total of 549 signatures in support were submitted.
• Text Change 224-05: Several residents spoke against the proposed changes, arguing they would weaken protections for property values, open space, and environmental resources. Barry Michelson, Steve Garst, Patrick Casey, Paula Waldman, Sue Halpern, and Monika Twal all voiced opposition.

Consent Calendar

No consent calendar was identified in the meeting.

Discussion Items

• Application 224-15 – Family Centers Inc.: The applicant, represented by Attorney William Hennessey, sought a special permit to use 986 Bedford Street as a public charitable institution. The building (≈15,000 sq ft) would serve as administrative offices with counseling services, replacing a vacant law firm. The organization serves about 24,000 people annually in Stamford and neighboring towns. No exterior changes were proposed. The Planning Board had unanimously recommended approval. The board had no questions; public input was minimal. The application was approved 5-0.
• Application 223-46 – Butter Cannabis (Adult-Use Cannabis Dispensary): The applicant, represented by Attorney Joseph Capalbo, requested a special permit for a cannabis retailer at 389 West Main Street (CL zone). The building is ≈2,449 sq ft with 20 parking spaces. Traffic studies showed good to excellent levels of service and adequate parking (double the requirement). The main zoning issue was whether the Yearwood Center (Boys & Girls Club) qualifies as a school within 1,000 feet—the regulation prohibits dispensaries within 1,000 feet of a school. The applicant argued that Yearwood Center is a public youth services agency, not a school. The city’s law department indicated that on the facts presented, the board could reasonably consider it a school. Board members discussed this extensively and also considered a crime study, traffic concerns, and community opposition. After public comment, the board indicated it would deny the application.
• Application 224-05 – Zoning Text Amendment: Proposed changes to Section 1A of the zoning regulations to align with state statute (CGS §8-2, as amended by PA 21-29). Planning Board had recommended approval. The law department suggested revisions, which were presented in redline. Board members, particularly Jerry Bozak and Raquel Smith Anderson, expressed concerns about deletions of language regarding open space, property value stabilization, and other goals. The public also strongly opposed the changes. The board decided not to vote that night and will continue deliberations at the next meeting.
• CSPR 1188 – Radek Zraniki (23 Perry Street): Site and architectural plan for a third‑floor addition and a four‑story rear addition, creating five residential units and commercial space. Conditions from EPB and engineering were noted. Approved 5-0.
• Extension of Time – Armon Hotel (2701 Summer Street): A one‑year extension granted through June 28, 2025. Approved 5-0.
• Return to In-Person Meetings: The board discussed resuming in‑person meetings. Members favored a hybrid approach (some meetings in‑person, some virtual) to maintain public participation. Staff will research technology options and legal requirements.

Key Outcomes

• Application 224-15 (Family Centers Inc.): Approved 5-0 for a special permit to operate a public charitable institution at 986 Bedford Street.
• Application 223-46 (Butter Cannabis): Board indicated intent to deny based on the conclusion that the Yearwood Center qualifies as a school under the zoning regulations. Staff will draft a denial resolution for the next meeting.
• Application 224-05 (Text Amendment): No vote taken; continued to the next meeting for further discussion and potential revisions.
• CSPR 1188 (23 Perry Street): Approved 5-0 with conditions.
• Extension of Time (Armon Hotel): Approved 5-0 to June 28, 2025.