Public Meetings - Stamford, Connecticut

The Stamford Zoning Board convened on January 23, 2024 (the meeting began at 6:30 PM on January 22 and continued into the 23rd) via Zoom. Chair David Stein led the meeting. The board received a presentation from City Administration Director Ben Barnes on the fiscal impacts of development, approved a site plan and special permit for 375 Fairfield Avenue, and held a public hearing on a special permit request from 100 Clinton LLC to pay $12,953,280 into the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) in lieu of providing on-site Below Market Rate (BMR) apartments. The board also handled several routine items. Presentation: Fiscal Impacts of Development Ben Barnes presented data on Stamford’s growth since 2013, including: - 5,384 new housing units permitted (≈10% growth in housing stock). - $2.1 billion added to the grand list (now ≈$27 billion). - $52.7 million in new property tax revenue (≈9% of total FY24 revenue). - $102 million in building permit fees. - 1,148 BMR units produced (≈25% of permitted units), with most apartment growth concentrated downtown and in the South End. - School enrollment has remained flat at about 16,000 students. - The real tax levy per capita (inflation-adjusted) has slightly declined, indicating stable city service demand. - Building permit fees reached a high of over $14 million in FY19. - Barnes argued that development, particularly multifamily housing, “pays its way” and that renters contribute through taxes embedded in rent. - Board members asked about the role of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, commercial growth mix, motor vehicle tax collection, and the sustainability of the growth rate. Discussion Items Application 223-43: 375 Fairfield Avenue – Site and architectural plans for two commercial/warehouse buildings (Building A: 52 self-park spaces, Building B: 46 spaces, plus EV spaces). The board approved the application with conditions including a 5-foot sidewalk, 4-foot amenity strip, 30 street trees, a 190-foot sidewalk extension south of the property, and standard conditions. All board members expressed support for the project, noting it provides commercial development and improves the area. Approval of Minutes – Minutes from January 8, 2024, were approved 4‑0 (Chair Stein recused). CSPR 1186: Mill River Park Playground Replacement – The board approved a coastal site plan to replace playground equipment and add a splash pad and restrooms, with conditions from EPB, Engineering, and BID. Extension Requests: - Application 222-32 (Clinton Avenue): One-year extension to March 27, 2025 – approved 5‑0. - Application 221-29 (South End Pacific): One-year extension to February 23, 2025 – approved 5‑0. CSPR 1185: 29 Waterbury Avenue – Continued to a future date for revised plans showing compliance with the half-story height limit. Public Hearing: Application 222-32 (100 & 101 Clinton Avenue) The applicant, 100 Clinton LLC, seeks a special permit to contribute $12,953,280 to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund in lieu of providing 49 on-site BMR units (47 at 50% AMI, 1 at 65% AMI, 1 at 25% AMI). The Planning Board had recommended providing a portion of the units on-site (12% at 80% AMI or 8% at 65% AMI) and paying the balance into the AHTF. Key speaker positions: - Attorney Jay Klein (applicant): Argued that the fee-in-lieu would allow nonprofits to leverage funds to produce more units at deeper affordability (e.g., 25% AMI), citing examples like VL on the Park and 72 Franklin Street. He emphasized that the on-site units would primarily serve 50% AMI households, while the greatest need is for those below 50% AMI. He noted that the volatile financial climate and lender preferences make the fee-in-lieu option essential for project financing. - Board members (Morris, Bozak, Smith Anderson, Stein, McManus): Raised concerns about the change from the original approval (which highlighted on-site BMR as a benefit), the timing and location of units produced through the trust fund, and the lack of detailed financial justification for the switch. Some members questioned why the project could not proceed with on-site units given the strong market. - Public speakers – Opposed: Paul Arvai, Rep. David Michel, Sue Hauper, Rep. Kendra Walston, Monica T. and others argued that on-site units are essential for economic integration, that the trust fund lacks shovel-ready projects, and that the money may sit unused. They emphasized the need for family-sized units and that the Clinton Avenue location (near transit) is ideal for BMR housing. - Public speakers – In favor: Jonathan Gottlieb (Charter Oak Communities), Richard Friedman (Garden Homes), Kylie Gossman (HDF), Larry Clitch and Rafael Pagan (Pacific House), and others argued that fee-in-lieu money is leveraged 4–5× and produces more units at deeper affordability levels (e.g., 25% AMI), with larger bedrooms and wraparound services. They noted that on-site units are predominantly one-bedroom and inefficient, and that nonprofits have a proven track record of delivering deeply affordable housing within 1–2 years of funding. - Public speakers – Neutral: Ray Manzo noted that only 30% of projects seek fee-in-lieu, indicating it is not “getting off easy.” Outcome: The public hearing will remain open until the board’s next meeting (February 5, 2024) for the applicant to provide additional financial details regarding why the on-site BMR units are no longer feasible. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved: Application 223-43 (375 Fairfield Avenue) – site and architectural plans, with conditions. (Unanimous 5‑0) - Approved: Minutes of January 8, 2024. (4‑0) - Approved: CSPR 1186 (Mill River Park playground replacement) – with conditions. (5‑0) - Approved: One-year extension of time for 100 Clinton LLC (application 222-32) to March 27, 2025. (5‑0) - Approved: One-year extension of time for South End Pacific LLC (application 221-29) to February 23, 2025. (5‑0) - Continued: CSPR 1185 (29 Waterbury Avenue) – for revised plans. - Hearing continued: Application 222-32 (Clinton Avenue fee-in-lieu) – kept open for additional financial information to be provided; deliberation scheduled for February 5, 2024. - Next meeting: February 5, 2024, at 6:30 PM, with a public hearing for 66 Stillwater Avenue (Pacific House project) and continued deliberations on the Clinton Avenue application.

The Stamford Planning Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 6:30 PM via Zoom webinar. The board approved prior meeting minutes, authorized a capital appropriation for roadway safety improvements, and issued recommendations on two zoning board referrals regarding affordable housing contributions and a deeply affordable housing development. Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 19, 2023: Approved unanimously (all members present, except Jay Kepper who was absent). - Belltown Roadway Capital Appropriation (Project 001389): Authorized a $1.8 million grant-funded project for roadway safety and infrastructure upgrades on Burdick Street, Upland Road, and Belltown Road, including new sidewalks, drainage, crosswalks, traffic calming, and lighting. The project is 100% grant-funded from CT DOT and Low SIP grants. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Zoning Board Referral 222-32(MOD) – 100 & 101 Clinton Avenue (CP VIII 100 Clinton, LLC): The applicant sought a special permit to contribute $12,953,280 to the Stamford Affordable Housing Trust Fund in lieu of providing on-site Below Market Rate (BMR) units. The project, located in the Mill River Design District, was approved in 2016 for 456 apartments, later modified to 471 units. The board discussed the trade-offs between on-site affordable units and fee-in-lieu payments, noting that 71% of BMR units in the past 8 years were on-site and 29% fee-in-lieu. Chair Teresa Dell advocated for a hybrid solution, supported by Vice Chair Jay Kepper and Member Michael Bacino. The applicant (Jay Klein) raised feasibility concerns due to financing challenges. Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to recommend that approximately 10% of units (47 units) be provided on-site at 65-80% Area Median Income (AMI), with the balance paid into the trust fund, leaving flexibility for the Zoning Board’s January 22 hearing. - Zoning Board Referral 223-44 – 66 Stillwater Avenue (Pacific House, Inc. & Mica Development Company, LLC): The applicant proposed an 18-unit deeply affordable residential building (supportive housing) with on-site case management and parking for 9 vehicles. The site is less than 10,000 sq ft and located in the Village Commercial (V-C) District. Staff noted alignment with surrounding uses and the master plan, despite density exceeding the outdated 17 du/ac recommendation. The project is expected to be shovel-ready within 4-5 months after zoning approval. No public opposition was reported. The board approved the application unanimously. Key Outcomes - Belltown Roadway: Approved $1.8 million capital request (unanimous). - 100 Clinton Avenue (Fee-in-Lieu): Voted to recommend a hybrid approach to the Zoning Board (unanimous). - 66 Stillwater Avenue (Pacific House): Approved the special permit, site plan, and coastal review (unanimous). - Next Meetings: January 23 (regular meeting and public hearing on capital budget), January 30 (regular meeting), February 13 (regular meeting and final capital budget discussion). Note: The agenda listed an invitation to a joint Zoning Board pre-application session on January 22, but no action was taken.

The Stamford Zoning Board met on January 9, 2024, at 6:31 PM (the raw transcript indicates Monday, January 8th, but the provided date is January 9, 2024; this discrepancy is noted). Chairman Bill Morris presided. The meeting included a vote on a pending application, a public hearing for a new industrial development, and several coastal site plan reviews (CSPR). Consent Calendar - Approval of December 11, 2023 meeting minutes: Unanimous. - CSPR 1180 (110 Davenport Drive): Location of a generator on the south side of an existing house. Approved unanimously with conditions and recommendations from EPB and Engineering. - CSPR 1182 (88 Kenilworth Drive West): Two-story addition to an existing dwelling, partially in a flood zone. Approved unanimously with conditions from EPB and Engineering. - CSPR 1183 (30 Woolsey Road): Addition of a second floor over a garage and propane tanks, with full house renovation. Approved unanimously with standard conditions. - CSPR 1184 (45 Sagamore Road): In-ground swimming pool, terrace, pergola, and retaining wall. Approved unanimously with conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for application 223-43. Discussion Items - Pending Application 223-36 (Historic Preservation): The board reviewed this application that had been continued from a previous meeting. Board members expressed strong support for preserving older housing and creating BMR (Below Market Rate) units. Conditions were reviewed in detail, including a historic preservation bond, easement, parking (23 spaces, one EV charging space), and a parking management plan. The board voted unanimously to approve. - Public Hearing - Application 223-43 (375 Fairfield Avenue): The applicant, 375 Fairfield Avenue Associates, proposed constructing two new warehouse/flex industrial commercial buildings on a 9.4-acre site in the MG (General Industrial) district. Building A (3 stories, approx. 54,156 sq ft) is designed as a design center with a casual restaurant and rooftop social space. Building B (1 story, approx. 39,980 sq ft) is a traditional warehouse. The plan includes reducing curb cuts from nine to four, adding a new sidewalk (5 ft wide with a 4 ft amenity strip, a waiver from the standard 6 ft width), extensive landscaping (over 30 trees), and improved stormwater management. The planning board recommended approval. Discussion covered sidewalk width, tree planting, the sustainability scorecard, and traffic. The public hearing was closed, and the decision was deferred to the next meeting. - CSPR 1185 (29 Waterbury Avenue): Construction of second and third floors on an existing single-family dwelling. The board had concerns about whether the third floor meets the half-story requirement and about adequate parking. The application was deferred to the next meeting pending additional information and review by the zoning enforcement officer. Key Outcomes - Application 223-36 approved unanimously with conditions. - Application 223-43 public hearing closed; decision deferred to next meeting. - CSPR 1180, 1182, 1183, 1184 approved unanimously. - CSPR 1185 deferred for additional information. - The next meeting is scheduled to include a decision on 223-43 and a public hearing for 100 Clinton Avenue (13 million dollar project).

[Note: While the user-provided metadata identifies the meeting date as December 20, 2023, the official agenda and meeting transcript both state the meeting took place on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. This discrepancy is noted here.] The Stamford Planning Board convened via Zoom webinar at 6:33 PM on December 19, 2023 under the leadership of Chair Theresa Dell. The board unanimously approved routine consent items, conducted a comprehensive line-by-line review of the proposed capital budget to bring it closer to the city's safe debt limit, and discussed board succession and the 2024 meeting calendar. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes Approval: The minutes from the December 12, 2023 meeting were approved unanimously. (Moved by Michael Totillo, seconded by Jennifer Godzino). - Capital Project Closeout Recommendations: The board unanimously approved the partial closeout of four capital funding lines, including the Aeration Blowers Upgrade (CP5025, $258,074.44 from WPCA bonds and $480,000 from Rebates), Primary Sludge De-Gritting System (CP1455, $1,200,000 from WPCA Reserve), and Vehicle Replacement and Repair (C71282, $140,367 from WPCA bonds). - Funding Source Switches: The board unanimously approved switching the funding source for the Primary Sludge De-Gritting System (CP1455) from WPCA Reserve to Revenue Bonds, and for the Vehicle Replacement project (C71282) from WPCA Bonds to WPCA Reserves. - Street Patch & Resurfacing Appropriation: The board approved a $2,000,000 appropriation for Street Patch & Resurfacing (C56182) utilizing ARPA funds. Discussion Items - Capital Budget Final Review & Reduction Strategy: The board aimed to reduce the total capital budget from roughly $35 million to approximately $28 million to align with safe debt limit guidance from Ben Barnes. Chair Dell and Tony Romano (OPM) proposed several reductions and deferrals: - Harry Bennett Library Branch ($4M): Placed on the "comeback" list; likely to be removed in January due to the unavailability of a state grant for branch libraries. - Rich Forum (CP7152, $300k): Proposed to be pushed to the next out-year pending confirmation of project need. - Master Plan (Consulting, $100k): Placed on hold contingent on the Board of Representatives approving a separate $199,000 consulting budget. - Overall Facilities Needs Assessment ($250k to $125k): Reduced by $125,000 and moved to Tier 2 to complement the Parks Strategic Plan. - Electric Vehicle Charging Stations ($500k total): Push funded and unfunded requests into out-years due to delays in the city's audit process. - Cove Island Park ($100k to $50k): Reduced by $50,000. - Transfer Station / Canal Wall Upgrades ($800k): Delayed one year. - Street Paving ($7M to $6M): Reduced by $1 million, following a separate $2 million supplemental appropriation approved earlier in the meeting. - Roadway Design (CP1281, $1.1M to $600k): Reduced to match historical spending, utilizing significant existing balances. - Board of Education Security Upgrades ($600k to $300k): Reduced to fund portable radios. - District-Wide Technology ($1.4M to $1M): Reduced by nearly $440,000 and pushed to an out-year. - Housing Development Fund ($1M): Board member Jennifer Godzino strongly advocated for prioritizing affordable housing funds. The board agreed to invite Housing Development Fund Director Emily Gordon to the January public hearing to provide an update on project readiness. - Board Composition and Succession: Chair Theresa Dell announced her resignation, effective at the last February meeting or upon replacement. Michael Totillo is also resigning. The Republican Town Committee nominated Stephen Garst and Prasad Tungarthi. The board discussed the process for electing a new chair. - Meeting Calendar: The board approved the 2024 meeting calendar, adding a regular meeting on January 9 and rescheduling the Capital Budget Public Hearing to January 23. Key Outcomes - Capital Budget Posting Approved: The board unanimously voted to allow Tony Romano to finalize the capital budget spreadsheet with the agreed changes, update the Capital Project sheets, and post the budget online by the end of the week to trigger the 4-week public review period. - Public Hearing Rescheduled: The public hearing for the capital budget was moved from January 16 to January 23, 2024, with a regular meeting added on January 9. - Housing Funding to be Revisited: The Housing Development Fund request will be revisited at the January 23 public hearing with project sponsors. - Board Succession: The board acknowledged the upcoming resignations of Chair Dell and Michael Totillo.

The Stamford Planning Board convened on December 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM via Zoom for a capital budget meeting. The agenda included a supplemental capital project appropriation request for the Comprehensive Plan (2025-2035), a presentation from the Ferguson Library on its facilities plan, review of requested callbacks, a detailed line-by-line capital budget review, old business regarding the 2024 meeting schedule, and new business which included the announcement of the resignations of Chair Terry Dell and board member Michael Totillo. Discussion Items - Supplemental Capital Project Appropriation: Master Plan / Comprehensive Plan (CP0042) – Associate Planner Lindsay Cohen presented a request for $199,074 to supplement the existing $250,000 budget for the decennial update to the city's Comprehensive Plan (now called the Comprehensive Plan rather than Master Plan). The funds would cover enhanced community engagement, data collection for four state- and federally-mandated plans (Comprehensive Plan, Housing Plan, Consolidated Plan, Equity Action Plan), and a creative outreach strategy. The total project budget would become $450,000. The board voted unanimously to approve the request. - Ferguson Library Comprehensive Facilities Plan – Alice Knapp, CEO, presented a 10-year, $40–50 million plan to renovate all four library branches (Main, Harry Bennett, Weed, South End). The plan emphasizes 12 universal design principles, including separating noisy and quiet spaces, adding meeting rooms, improving accessibility, and creating outdoor programming areas. The library has already used $50,000 in city funds and $150,000 from the foundation to develop the plan. Knapp indicated the city’s share could be 50–75% with the library fundraising the remainder. No vote was taken; the presentation was informational. - Capital Budget Callbacks – The board reviewed written responses to previous questions: the Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) has $24 million in cash reserves; Parks Department provided details on pickleball court conversions (dedicated courts, not shared lines); Engineering provided an itemized list. No further action was needed. - Capital Budget Review – The board methodically reviewed each capital project, assigning tiers (1=fund, 2=mayor’s discretion, 3=not now, 4=BOE long-term, 5=contingent on grants/info) and dollar amounts. Key decisions included: $7 million for citywide paving, $2 million for fire apparatus, $1 million for housing development, $600,000 for John Fuzucie project completion, $200,000 for Bartlett Arboretum pavilion, $275,000 for library boilers, and $500,000 for marina dock design. The tier 1 total reached approximately $32 million, exceeding the $27 million target. The board agreed to revisit reductions at the next meeting. - Resignations of Chair Terry Dell and Board Member Michael Totillo – Terry Dell announced that she and Michael Totillo have asked the Republican Town Committee not to forward their names for reappointment. They will remain on the board until February 27, 2024, or until replacements are confirmed. Dell thanked the board and staff for her 23 years of service (16 as chair). Totillo also expressed gratitude. The board will elect new officers when replacements join. Key Outcomes - Supplemental Capital Project Appropriation Approved – The request for $199,074 for the Comprehensive Plan (CP0042) was approved unanimously. - Capital Budget Tier Assignments and Amounts Set – The board assigned tiers and amounts to dozens of projects, with a tentative tier 1 total of $32 million. Final adjustments will be made at the December 19 meeting to bring the total closer to $27-30 million. - Next Steps – The board will hold a final capital budget review on December 19, 2023. A public hearing on the capital budget is scheduled for January 16, 2024. The final budget will be submitted to the mayor by February 13, 2024. - Resignations Effective – Chair Terry Dell and board member Michael Totillo will serve until February 27, 2024, or until their replacements are appointed. New officers will be elected at that time. - 2024 Meeting Schedule – Tabled for review; board member Jennifer Gazzino will check for conflicts with school holidays before finalizing.

The Stamford Zoning Board convened on December 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM via Zoom under Chair David Stein. The meeting included public hearings and a regular session for several applications, resulting in approvals for a parking lot, a historic preservation project (continued), a map change, and a daycare expansion. Public Comments & Testimony - Rock Rim Country Club Parking Lot (223-35): Sorel Baruchin (553 Old Long Ridge Rd) spoke in favor but asked for assurance that the lot would not be converted to other uses. Cynthia Russell (1374 Rock Rim Rd) opposed, citing noise, loss of wooded buffer, drainage, and wetland concerns. - Taylor Street Historic Preservation (223-36): Terry Adams (15 Liftin Pl) supported but raised drainage adequacy. Kathy Kligler (21 Friar Tuck Ln) supported and asked about affordable rent amounts. Cynthia Bowser (30 Rose Park Ave) supported but expressed concerns about traffic and parking on Mission Street. Discussion Items - Application 223-35 – Rock Rim Country Club Parking Lot: Proposed creating 65 parking spaces at 0 Long Ridge Rd. Rick Redness presented. Original pickleball component removed after neighbor concerns. Board discussed drainage, landscaping, lighting, and buffer. Condition that plans be approved by Engineering and EPB. Applicant noted neighbor letter of support. - Application 223-36 – GNT Taylor Street: Historic preservation of 18 Taylor Street and infill of 13 new units (total 18). Lenny Brayman presented. Board discussed parking (23 spaces with EV), drainage, materials (slate gray roof, AZAC, cedar siding), blank walls, and affordable units (two BMR units at 50% AMI, max rent $1,927). Chair requested windows on blank walls; applicant agreed. Application closed to receive revised plans and engineering confirmation letter. - Application 223-25 – Map Change at 251 Gray Rock Place: Rezoning from RH to PD. Ray Mazio presented. Withdrawal of associated text change and site plan noted. No public comment. - Application 221-22 Mod – Balasha Campbell Daycare Expansion: Expansion from 12 to up to 32 children at 110 Prospect St. Falasha Campbell presented. Board supported, noting state regulation. Key Outcomes - Application 223-35 approved 5-0 with conditions including EV spaces, plan updates, and no access drive to Long Ridge Road. - Application 223-36 closed; applicant to submit revised plans and engineering sign-off letter by end of week; to be prioritized for next meeting. - Application 223-25 approved 5-0. - Application 221-22 Mod approved 5-0 with conditions: max 32 children ages 2–5, hours 7am–6:30pm, eight designated parking spaces with signage, and compliance with engineering comments. - CSPR 1179 (133 Stanford Ave sunroom) approved 5-0. - Minutes of November 27, 2023 approved 4-0. - Next meeting: January 8, 2024; December 18, 2023 meeting cancelled.

Note: The instruction provided a meeting date of 2023-11-29, but the agenda and transcript consistently identify the meeting as Tuesday, November 28, 2023. This summary uses the date supplied per instruction, but the discrepancy is noted. The meeting convened at approximately 6:30 PM and recessed after 10:30 PM. The agenda contained a consent item, multiple zoning board referrals, a public hearing on a master plan amendment, zoning board of appeals referrals, and administrative business. Consent Calendar - Minutes of November 14, 2023: Approved unanimously (4-0, with one member absent). No corrections or public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Master Plan Amendment MP-444 (961 Long Ridge Road / 16 Wire Mill Road): Over 20 members of the public spoke, nearly all in opposition. Key points raised: - The proposal constitutes spot zoning and violates master plan provisions protecting low‑density single‑family neighborhoods. - Traffic safety concerns: the proposed Long Ridge Road exit feeds directly onto the Merritt Parkway on‑ramp; the Wire Mill Road intersection is already congested and dangerous. - The developer’s reduction from 18 to 12 units was seen as insufficient and still too dense for a 2.63‑acre site. - Wetland disturbance, potential well water contamination, lack of sidewalks, and absence of meaningful affordable housing were cited. - Several residents stated they were not opposed to development but insisted the site should remain single‑family under the existing master plan designation. - One speaker representing the Stamford Neighborhoods Coalition argued that map changes should be rare and that the application did not serve the public interest. - A few speakers questioned the traffic study methodology and noted that the developer’s earlier promises (senior housing, city water) were not reflected in the current application. Discussion Items - ZB Application 223-43 (375 Fairfield Avenue): Applicant presented plans for two new warehouse/flex industrial buildings (Building A: 54,156 sq. ft., three stories; Building B: 39,980 sq. ft., one story) with a small fast‑casual restaurant. Staff recommended approval. The board asked about existing tenants, curb cut reduction, and landscaping. The application passed unanimously. - Master Plan Amendment MP-444 (continued public hearing): Applicant’s attorney Joseph Capalbo described the reduction from 18 to 12 townhomes, protection of wetlands, preservation of a historic structure, and elimination of commercial expansion. Traffic engineer Neil Alinsky testified that 12 units would generate negligible new trips (about 5 vehicles per peak hour). Board members questioned pricing (estimated $800k‑$1M+ per unit), the Long Ridge Road median preventing left turns, and the lack of a direct public benefit. After public testimony, the board discussed and concluded the proposal did not warrant a master plan change. The amendment was denied unanimously. - ZB Application 223-35 (Rockrimmon Country Club): Applicant Richard Redniss presented a revised plan eliminating pickleball courts and adding 46 parking spaces with enhanced landscaping and lighting. Staff and board approved unanimously. - ZB Application 221-22(MOD) (110 Prospect Street): No applicant appeared. Staff recommended approval to modify a daycare special permit from 12 to 32 children, citing compatibility with the urban mixed‑use master plan category. The board approved unanimously. - ZBA Application 043-23 (38 Benstone Street): Variance request for a 27.8 ft. rear yard setback (required 30 ft.) for an addition. Approved unanimously. - ZBA Application 044-23 (1 Apple Tree Drive): Variance request for front yard setbacks of 14.8 ft. (required 40 ft.) and 39.8 ft. (required 65 ft.) for a second‑story addition. Staff recommended denial because the proposal exceeded the minimum necessary relief. The board voted unanimously to deny. - ZBA Application 045-23 (King School): Special permit for two new parking areas totaling 46 spaces, with no increase in enrollment. Staff recommended approval. The application passed unanimously. - Old Business: None. - New Business: Discussion of the 2024 meeting schedule and capital budget timeline. The next regular meeting was set for December 12, 2023, with a follow‑up on December 19 for capital budget review. Key Outcomes - ZB 223-43 (375 Fairfield Avenue): Approved unanimously. - Master Plan Amendment MP-444: Denied unanimously. Consequently, the companion ZB 223-29 (map change) was not voted on. - ZB 223-35 (Rockrimmon Country Club): Approved unanimously. - ZB 221-22(MOD) (110 Prospect Street): Approved unanimously. - ZBA 043-23 (38 Benstone Street): Approved unanimously. - ZBA 044-23 (1 Apple Tree Drive): Denied unanimously. - ZBA 045-23 (King School): Approved unanimously. - Capital Budget Schedule: Public hearing set for January 16, 2024; board deliberations to follow. - Next Regular Meeting: December 12, 2023, with a special capital budget meeting on December 19, 2023.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was held on November 27, 2023 at 6:30 p.m., but the provided date is November 28, 2023. This summary uses the provided date per instructions. The Stamford Zoning Board met on November 28, 2023 via Zoom. Chair David Stein presided. Board members present: Bill Morris, Roseanne McManus, Jerry Bozak, Ralph Blessing, and Vanita Matter. Raquel Smith Anderson was absent. The meeting began with a roll call and proceeded to the regular agenda after noting that no public hearing was scheduled for that evening. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 13, 2023): The minutes were approved unanimously by voice vote with no corrections. Discussion Items - Application 223-32 – Nautilus Botanicals (Cannabis Dispensary at 1110 East Main Street): Board members expressed unanimous opposition. Concerns included: inadequate parking (only 6 spaces provided vs. 8 required per ZEO), traffic impacts from the nearby I-95 on/off ramps, insufficient off-site parking (over 500 feet from the entrance without a shared parking agreement), and potential detriment to the surrounding residential neighborhood. The board cited non-compliance with special permit findings (Section 19 C2, 19 C21, 19 C24) and the master plan. - Application 223-34 – 900 Long Ridge Road (Site & Architectural Plans, Special Permit): All board members opposed the proposal. Reasons included: the project was not an adaptive reuse of the existing office park but rather a demolition and new construction; the size and scale were more appropriate for downtown; the design lacked architectural diversity and earned a sustainability rating of C; and the density and intensity were inconsistent with the master plan’s guidance for lower-density development adjacent to downtown. The board noted the applicant preserved open space but found the overall plan unsuitable. - Continued Items: Applications 223-36 (Taylor Street) and 223-24, 223-25, 223-26 (related to 74th Street and parking garage) were all continued to the December 11, 2023 meeting. - Adoption of 2024 Meeting Calendar: The board approved the calendar for 2024 with no objections. - Land Use Training Requirements: Under new Connecticut statutes, board members must complete 4 hours of training (including 1 hour on housing/affordable housing) by January 1, 2024, with an affidavit due by February 1, 2024. Links to approved courses will be resent by staff. Key Outcomes - Application 223-32 (Cannabis Dispensary): Denied on a vote of 4-0. The board adopted a resolution of denial citing inadequate parking, traffic concerns, and failure to meet special permit findings. - Application 223-34 (900 Long Ridge Road): Denied on a vote of 4-0. The board adopted a resolution of denial citing non-compliance with the master plan, lack of adaptive reuse, unsuitability of scale and design, and a sustainability rating of C. - Next Meeting: December 11, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Agenda includes continued items (Taylor Street, High Group, 110 Prospect Street daycare expansion). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

Introductory Summary The Stamford Planning Board held a regular meeting on November 16, 2023, to review capital budget presentations from multiple city departments and agencies. The board approved minutes from prior meetings, heard detailed funding requests totaling approximately $88.8 million, and discussed the city's safe debt limit of $70–75 million, with $35 million reserved for Board of Education new school construction and an estimated $27 million available for all other capital projects. No final votes were taken; deliberations will begin on November 21, 2023. Consent Calendar - October 24, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes – Approved unanimously by members Stephen Perry, Michael Totillo, and others. - November 8, 2023 Special Meeting Minutes (Davenport Ridge Elementary School and Solid Waste Infrastructure) – Approved unanimously by members Teresa Dell, Jay Tepper, and Jennifer Gozzino. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Fidelie (District 17, Board of Representatives) and Emil Goldberg (District 13, Board of Representatives) attended as observers. No public comments were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items 1. Office of the Mayor: Community Development – Affordable Housing - Presenter: Lauren Meyer (Special Assistant to the Mayor), Emily Gordon (Principal Housing Planner), Kylie Goselin (CEO, Housing Development Fund), and Jonathan Gottlieb (President, Ripple Woman Corporation / Charter of Communities). - Request: $2 million for affordable housing capital (increased from $1.25 million in prior year). - Housing Development Fund (HDF): Proposed a new 40–45 unit condominium project (1, 2, and 3 bedrooms) for households at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) – approximately $137,000 per year for a family of four. Construction costs estimated at $500,000 per unit; sale prices targeted between $250,000–$400,000. The gap would be filled by public and private financing. HDF’s prior Washington Crossing project created 23 permanently affordable condos at 60% AMI. - Charter of Communities (Stamford Manor): Requested $1 million for critical repairs to exterior stairways and walkways at the 215-unit federal public housing high-rise serving elderly and non-elderly disabled residents. Total project cost estimated at $4 million, with a funding shortfall. Repairs are urgent due to deterioration and code compliance. - Discussion: Jay Tepper asked about the increase from $1.25M to $2M; Emily Gordon explained the intent to restore funding to historical levels (previously $1.5M ten years ago). Board members noted that the $1.25M in out-years is a placeholder. Stephen Perry inquired about using fee-in-lieu funds for future projects. 2. Stamford Fire Department – Capital Requests - Presenter: Assistant Chief Miguel Robles. - Priority 1 – Fire Apparatus: $2.3 million to replace two engines (2005 and 2006 models, 18–17 years old, vs. NFPA-recommended 10-year lifespan) and $300,000 to refurbish a multi-use command vehicle (water damaged, replacement cost $600,000+). - Priority 2 – Personal Protective Equipment: $225,000 for 50 sets of coats and pants (up from $150,000 due to price increase from $3,000 to $4,500 per set). Ongoing annual replacement needed. - Priority 3 – Main Firehouse Bathrooms: Urgent repairs for original bathrooms with mold and water damage. - Priority 4 – Glenbrook Boiler Replacement: $100,000 for a leaking 40-year-old boiler. - Priority 5 – Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Bottles: Ongoing replacement of 50 bottles per year. - Priority 6 – Drill Field Storage Building: Request for a lean-to to protect apparatus from weather; previous requests for covered storage at other city lots faced neighborhood opposition. - Priority 7 – Central Firehouse HVAC: Original system; $358,000 for replacement of units and boilers. (Submitted by facilities, not by Fire.) - Priority 8 – South End Fire Station Improvements: HVAC and water infiltration issues. - Discussion: Stephen Perry suggested considering joint city-wide covered storage to extend equipment life. Robles noted previous requests for covered storage were not funded. 3. Operations: Solid Waste & Recycling - Presenter: Dan Colleluori, Supervisor of Solid Waste & Recycling. - Priority 1 – Transfer Station Improvements: Lighting, exhaust fans (8+ non-functioning), and a misting system for dust control at the 1984-built facility, which processes 75,000 tons of garbage annually. Critical for staff and public health/safety. - Priority 2 – Downtown “Big Belly” Solar Compactors: Purchase 10 tandem solar-powered, compacting garbage/recycling containers with smart monitoring to reduce collection frequency and improve aesthetics. - Priority 3 – Canal Bulkhead Repair: Design phase ($800,000) to evaluate failing retaining walls along the canal adjacent to the transfer station. Total project cost estimated at $11.5 million (engineering estimate by Lou Castlow). Potential for significant future bonding. - Discussion: Jay Tepper noted the cost increase from $8M to $11.5M. Tony Romano confirmed grants will be sought. The board discussed handling large projects separately. 4. Operations: Traffic Engineering - Presenter: Frank Petise, Transportation Bureau Chief. - Roadway Design and Reconstruction: $1.1 million to leverage approximately $10 million in grants for three projects: Third Street corridor improvement (LOTCIP), traffic monitoring cameras Phase 2 (30 intersections), and traffic signal at Newfield & Vine. - Vision Zero Action Plan: $500,000 to implement early-action items (medians, bump-outs, protected bike lanes, raised crosswalks) from the action plan due in early 2025. - Safe Routes to School: $1.65 million to match two recent grants ($2M and $4.4M) covering design and 20% match; grant funds not yet received. - Strawberry Hill / Newfield Avenue Corridor: $4 million city match for a potential $20 million Safe Streets for All grant (decision expected end of 2023). Also a LOTCIP Phase 2 grant for design. - Parking Division Vehicles: $100,000 per year (funded from parking fund surplus) to replace aging vehicles (6–16 years old). - Discussion: Jay Tepper recommended showing grant matching funds together in the budget. The board agreed to create a separate tier for grant-dependent projects. 5. Special Revenue: Water Pollution Control - Presenter: Ann Brown, Supervising Engineer. - CMOM Sewer Capacity Management: $600,000 (offset by $275,000 Clean Water Fund grant, balance from WPCA reserve) for flow monitoring, smoke testing, and TV inspections to identify infiltration/inflow problems. - Sanitary Pumping Station Repairs: $120,000 for design of Saddle Rock station replacement; $1.28 million for construction. $530,000 for design of Albert Lane and Commerce Road stations (both older, with Albert Lane among the oldest in Connecticut). Plus $50,000 for ongoing repairs across 23 stations. Funded from WPCA reserve. - Vehicle Replacement: $650,000 to replace a vac truck and a jet truck with a combined jet-vac truck, plus $50,000 for routine maintenance. Funded from WPCA reserve. - Discussion: Jay Tepper requested the current balance of the WPCA reserve fund; Ann Brown agreed to provide the figure. 6. Board of Education: Capital & Short-Term Financing - Presenter: Katherine LoBalbo (Director of School Construction) for capital items; Kevin McCarthy (Director of Facilities), Mike Pensiero (Director of IT), and Alec Iagman (Coordinator of Technology Integration) for short-term items. - Capital Requests (total $24.4 million presented): - Stark School: $500,000 for accessible bathroom renovations. - Safety & Security Infrastructure: Ongoing compliance with state mandates (out-year funding). - Northeast School: $1.2 million for abatement and wall repairs (60% state reimbursement expected). - Stamford High School: Roofing (final section) at $2.4 million (60% grant expected) and fire alarm upgrade. - Solar Panels at four schools (Westover, Strawberry Hill, Rogers, and others): Funded via an NRES grant that will pay the district millions for energy generated; no offset of building energy use. - AITE: Fire alarm upgrade. - Newfield School: MEP controls and fire alarm; $0 state grant assumed (previous application denied, will reapply). - Rippowam: HVAC and accessibility improvements. - Hart School: Roofing/waterproofing and accessible bathroom. - Toquam School: $2.5 million for switchgear replacement (building remains in use until new south school opens; equipment can be transferred). - Turn of River: Roof replacement. - District-wide Asbestos: Emergency response abatement. - Davenport: Site drainage. - Short-Term Financing Requests: - Security Upgrades ($600,000): Cameras, walkie-talkies, environmental sensors, visitor management. - Facility Equipment ($650,000): Ride-on leaf blowers, custodial/landscape equipment, attachments for John Deere tractors, and site trucks for snow plowing. - Technology Equipment ($1.5 million): Chromebooks, staff computers, smart teaching boards on a 5–8 year replacement cycle; move from catch-up to maintenance phase. - Discussion: Katherine LoBalbo emphasized 60% reimbursement for many projects. Jay Tepper asked about fuel savings from solar; LoBalbo clarified energy is sold back to the grid. The board acknowledged ongoing support for school safety and technology. Financing Overview by Chair Teresa Dell and Tony Romano - Tony Romano (OPM guru) stated the safe debt limit is approximately $70–75 million for the upcoming budget. - Of that, $35 million per year is earmarked for Board of Education new school construction (Stark, Westhill, etc.) for the next 3–5 years. - Remaining funds for all other departments is estimated at $27 million. - Total capital requests received this year: $88.8 million (including $24.4 million from Board of Education and $35 million new school allocation, leaving $29.4 million for other departments; board must cut to $27 million). - Interest rates have risen from 1–2% to 4–4.5%, increasing borrowing costs. - Many prior-year approved projects remain unfunded due to delayed city audit; funding decisions pending. Key Outcomes - No votes taken on budget allocations. The board will begin formal deliberations on November 21, 2023 and set preliminary tiers (Tier 1: essential projects; Tier 2: mayor's priorities; Tier 3: grant-dependent; Tier 4: deferred). - Public hearing on the capital budget is scheduled for January 9, 2024. - Final budget adoption and submission to the Mayor are targeted for February 13, 2024. - Callbacks requested: - Lou Castlow (Engineering) to answer questions on the Canal bulkhead project. - Ann Brown to provide current WPCA reserve fund balance. - Lindsay Cohen to compile spreadsheet for tiered review. - Next meetings: November 21 (regular & callbacks), November 28 (public hearing), December 12 (budget review), December 19 (if needed).