Public Meetings - Stamford, Connecticut

The Appointments Committee of the Stamford Board of Representatives met on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Democratic Caucus Room and via Zoom. Co-Chairs Felix Gardner and Steven Shore led the meeting, with committee members Representatives Bradford, Camporeale, Hill, Hyatt, Weathers, and Weinberg present (7 members, quorum achieved). Representative Pavia was absent. Also in attendance were Representatives Morson and Walston. The meeting was adjourned at 8:44 p.m. The committee interviewed 10 nominees for reappointment or new appointments to the Environmental Protection Board, Parking Violation Hearing Officers, and Fire Commission. All but one item (Laura Tessier, unable to attend) were approved unanimously by a vote of 7-0. Discussion Items - Rules Suspension (Item 10 – Michael Hyman, Fire Commission): The committee unanimously (7-0) suspended the rules to interview Michael Hyman first, as he had a prior commitment. Hyman, a former DCC treasurer, expressed his commitment to fire department governance and public safety, including training, equipment, and community education. He cited his personal gratitude for the fire department’s response during a blizzard. Committee members praised his volunteer service. - Rules Suspension (Item 6 – Maria Linares, Fire Commission): The committee unanimously (7-0) suspended the rules to interview Maria Linares second. Linares, a reappointment candidate, discussed the condition of the downtown firehouse (elevator needs updating) and assessed department morale as positive. She noted the strong relationship between volunteer and paid firefighters, attributing it to leadership addressing issues promptly. She advised new commissioners to get to know the staff and understand the city’s needs. Committee members asked about her major contributions and what she learned; she emphasized the depth of certifications and training required. - Item 2 – Leigh Shemitz (Environmental Protection Board): Shemitz, a reappointment candidate, discussed the proposed conservation commission, expressing support for its concept but noting that regulatory work often takes precedence on the EPB. She highlighted the importance of consistent decision-making and the tension between environmental protection and development. She also touted the city’s environmental stewardship, particularly student education through Soundwaters, and mentioned opportunities for reopening clam beds. Committee members praised her expertise. - Item 3 – Lori Longo Legierse (Parking Violation Hearing Officer): Legierse, a reappointment candidate with 18 years of experience, described her approach: listening to appellants, checking signage, and remaining impartial. She noted that most violations are human errors. She advised that candidates should be open-minded, tolerant of angry people, and willing to go the extra mile to inspect locations. Committee members thanked her for her service and for recruiting other candidates. - Item 4 – Marni Marantz (Parking Violation Hearing Officer): Marantz, a new candidate recruited by Legierse, shared her juvenile court experience and emphasized the importance of making people feel heard. She expected to handle emotional situations and follow the law. Committee members expressed confidence in her nomination. - Item 5 – Robert Willis (Parking Violation Hearing Officer): Willis, a new candidate, described his work with Catholic Charities and his legal background. He introduced the concept of “gray rock” – remaining impassive when dealing with upset individuals. He also discussed his passion project of rehabilitating neglected properties in Stamford and providing below-market rents, even helping a tenant’s family from Ukraine. Committee members were impressed by his compassion. - Item 7 – Linda Darling (Fire Commission): Darling, a new candidate and retired principal, discussed her leadership in education and her commitment to public safety. She emphasized the importance of fair, transparent hiring processes and the role of firefighters as role models for children. She also noted the need for defibrillators in public spaces and supported co-locating fire and police headquarters. Committee members appreciated her perspective. - Item 8 – Stephen Canna (Fire Commission): Canna, a new candidate, detailed his work with the Stamford Police Foundation (including a gun tip line) and his background as a tax attorney. He expressed willingness to learn about the fire commission and asked about facilities for female firefighters. Committee members noted his problem-solving skills. - Item 9 – John Dulski (Fire Commission): Dulski, a new candidate and lifelong Stamford resident, expressed interest in learning about fire department operations, including new challenges like lithium battery fires. He suggested building community relationships with youth and seeking corporate donations for defibrillators. Committee members discussed the importance of firefighters living locally and the possibility of tax abatements for volunteers. Key Outcomes - Item A32.045 – Laura Tessier (Environmental Protection Board): No action taken because Tessier could not attend; she will participate via Zoom next month. - Item A32.046 – Leigh Shemitz (Environmental Protection Board): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.047 – Lori Longo Legierse (Parking Violation Hearing Officer): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.048 – Marni Marantz (Parking Violation Hearing Officer): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.049 – Robert Willis (Parking Violation Hearing Officer): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.050 – Maria Linares (Fire Commission): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.051 – Linda Darling (Fire Commission): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.052 – Stephen Canna (Fire Commission): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.053 – John Dulski (Fire Commission): Approved 7-0. - Item A32.054 – Michael Hyman (Fire Commission): Approved 7-0. All appointments will be forwarded to the full Board of Representatives for final approval at the August 6, 2026 meeting.

The Legislative & Rules Committee of the Stamford Board of Representatives met on June 23, 2026, from 7:01 PM to 7:39 PM to conduct public hearings and consider two ordinances: LR32.016 to repeal the Appointments Commission and LR32.017 to establish reporting requirements on mayoral appointments. The committee approved an amendment to LR32.017 and voted to advance it to a second public hearing, while postponing LR32.016 indefinitely. Public Comments & Testimony On LR32.016 (Repeal of Appointments Commission): - Ms. Halpern (via Zoom) initially began comments on the reporting ordinance but was redirected to the repeal; she had no further comment on the repeal. - Mr. Adams (in person) opposed the repeal, calling it a "bait and switch" and urged caution, stating that the Board should secure the reporting ordinance before abolishing the commission. He expressed concern about relying on Corporation Counsel opinions based on past experiences. - Ms. Calabries (remote) opposed the repeal, arguing it was submitted by the mayor to eliminate a check on executive power. She noted the Appointments Commission was never allowed to function due to mayoral inaction and stressed the need for independent oversight. On LR32.017 (Reporting Requirements): - Ms. Halpern supported the ordinance but recommended adding language requiring that appointments reflect the diversity and geographic areas of the city, citing her own experience applying for HPAC (Historic Preservation Advisory Commission) and being overlooked despite qualifications. - Mr. Adams supported the ordinance as a step forward but felt it did not go far enough, particularly regarding public disclosure of applicant names. He urged the committee to consider future generations. - Ms. Calabries supported the ordinance as preserving a "strand" of the Appointments Commission. She highlighted alarming statistics: 76% of board/commission members are Caucasian in a majority-minority city, and only 29% are female. She urged the Board to override any mayoral veto. Discussion Items LR32.017 – Amendment and Approval: - Chair McKeown introduced an amendment to change the reporting cadence from monthly to quarterly, based on feedback from the Mayor's Office about administrative burden. The amendment was approved by unanimous voice vote (9-0-0). - Rep. Blank expressed frustration that the request for quarterly reporting and a legal opinion from Corporation Counsel came last minute, suggesting it seemed like "games" to delay the ordinance. - Rep. Weinberg opposed the ordinance, arguing that the reporting requirement would not solve recruitment problems and that a one-time review of applications would suffice. He also noted that the administrative burden of monthly reporting was an unfunded mandate. - Rep. Camporeale (Vice Chair) supported the ordinance, stating "information is power" and that data could help improve board composition. She inquired about adding a diversity statement and making applicant names public optionally. - Rep. Stone (likely the speaker) responded to Rep. Weinberg, arguing that the ordinance provides structural transparency for the public and future boards, not just this one, and that data will inform recruitment efforts. LR32.016 – Postponement: - After discussion, Chair McKeown noted that many members' support for repeal was contingent on passage of the reporting ordinance. He moved to postpone LR32.016 definitely to a future meeting. This was approved by unanimous voice vote (9-0-0). Key Outcomes - LR32.016 (Repeal of Appointments Commission): Postponed definitely by a vote of 9-0-0. No further action. - LR32.017 (Reporting Requirements): Amended to change reporting from monthly to quarterly (9-0-0). Approved as amended for a second public hearing by a roll call vote of 8-1-0 (Rep. Weinberg opposed). - The committee will hold a second public hearing on LR32.017 at a future date before final adoption.

The Stamford Zoning Board met on June 23, 2026, at 6:32 PM, chaired by David Stein, to continue a public hearing on Application 22608 – a city-initiated zoning text amendment aimed at strengthening sustainability requirements. The amendment would mandate a minimum sustainability scorecard grade (B or C depending on zone), require solar or green roofs on new roofs over 5,000 square feet, and establish tree protection standards. The board also approved prior minutes and a separate site plan application (CSPR 1233). Public Comments & Testimony - Jason Klein (Attorney for Stamford Hospital) – Expressed general support but requested flexibility for nonprofits, noting that a hospital project’s costs could increase by over $1 million. Welcomed the board’s idea of a special permit process for case-by-case relief. - Laura Jordan (Director of Government & Community Relations, Stamford Health) – Echoed support and highlighted the hospital’s existing sustainability measures (fuel cells, LED lighting, shuttle). Asked for flexibility given the hospital’s master facility plan already underway. - Michael Moore (President of Stamford Downtown) – Asked the board to postpone action, citing concerns that rising costs and competitive pressures from Westchester County could slow development and reduce housing supply. Requested further stakeholder input before approval. - Diana Collage (District 7 resident, environmental studies student) – Supported the amendment, advocated for removing the blanket exemption for affordable housing, and urged the board to retain authority to decide on a case-by-case basis to avoid exacerbating inequality. Discussion Items - Sustainability Text Amendment Overview – Ralph Lessing (staff) reviewed the three main goals: (1) requiring a B or C sustainability scorecard grade depending on location and new construction vs. rehab; (2) adding tree protection standards; (3) requiring solar or green roofs on roofs over 5,000 sq ft. He cited benefits including reduced urban heat island effect, lower energy costs, and extended roof life. - Board Questions and Debate - Board member Bill asked why grade requirements differ by zone – Lessing explained that denser areas near transit earn points more easily, so requiring a higher grade there is equitable. - Board member Keith Walker questioned the blanket exemption for affordable housing and nonprofits from the scorecard requirement. Lessing acknowledged financing challenges but noted that affordable housing residents also deserve green buildings. The board discussed using a special permit process instead of a blanket exemption, allowing the board to decide on a project-by-project basis. - Board member Roseanne supported giving the board authority (e.g., requiring 25% of roof coverage) rather than a full waiver. Board member Jared and others agreed. - Board member Peter welcomed the public support and praised the initiative. - Board member Roseanne noted that the scorecard currently is often filed late with low grades early in the process, but the amendment would make the grade a binding requirement. - Staff Clarifications – Lessing noted that alternatives like LEED certification could be used to satisfy sustainability requirements. He also explained the timeline: scorecard submissions are required at zoning board application, building permit, and certificate of occupancy. - Future Meeting Schedule – The board’s next meeting is July 6, 2026. The sustainability amendment will be on the agenda for deliberation (no vote was taken tonight). The board will take one meeting to deliberate before voting. Key Outcomes - Application 22608 (Sustainability Text Amendment) – The public hearing was closed. The board will deliberate and likely vote at the July 6, 2026 meeting. Board members may send questions to staff before then, but deliberation must occur in public. - Minutes of June 8, 2026 – Approved (5 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 abstention). - CSPR 1233 (46 Settle Rock Road) – Approved unanimously (5-0) with conditions from DEEP, Engineering, EPB, and Harbor Management Commission. The application involves a pool and FEMA-rated platform in a flood zone. - Withdrawn Applications – The two applications for 1150 Summer Street (map change and general development plan) were withdrawn by the applicant and will need to be refiled. - Next Meeting – July 6, 2026; potential agenda includes a map change for a McDonald’s drive-thru lane and possibly the historic bonus for 25 De Beralin (deferred to September). The meeting adjourned after approximately one hour.

The Fiscal Committee of the Board of Representatives met on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider two grant appropriations and to review the expired Municipal Tax Services (MTS) motor vehicle registration and tax collection program. The meeting was adjourned at 7:51 p.m. Consent Calendar - Item F32.089 – $324,646 – Additional appropriation (grant) for the Stamford Police Department from SAMHSA via Recovery Network of Programs to fund salary and fringe costs for a police officer assigned to the Behavioral Health Unit. This covers years two, three, and four of a five-year fully funded grant; the first year was already appropriated. The committee approved the item by a voice vote of 8-0-0. - Item F32.090 – $62,566 – Additional appropriation (grant) for the Grants Office from state funds for LGP-QE Quality Enhancement through Shine Early Learning to support contracted services, direct services, conferences, training, and program supplies. The committee approved the item by a voice vote of 7-0-1 (Representative Le Pine abstained). Discussion Items - Item F32.091 – Review of Municipal Tax Services (MTS) Program – Greg Stackpole (City Assessor) and Steve Parenti presented an extensive overview of the MTS motor vehicle tax collection program, which ran from January 2019 through January 2026. The program used license plate readers on city streets to identify out-of-state and unregistered vehicles, then investigated and added eligible vehicles to the tax roll. Stackpole reported that the program generated approximately $3.4 million in total revenue over the life of the contract, but also consumed about 1,300 work hours per year (roughly one-third of two full-time employees’ time) for taxpayer inquiries and follow-up. The contract split collected taxes and interest 50/50 between the city and MTS, plus a $50 processing fee per vehicle. The program was allowed to expire in January 2026, with the city no longer under contract. Stackpole cited concerns over the invasiveness of investigations (e.g., checking social media, court records), administrative burden, and a perceived inequitable revenue split as reasons for non-renewal. He noted that in 2024 the scope was narrowed to out-of-state plates only, dropping the assessed value from $50 million to $11 million. Representative Stone questioned why the program was not renewed or replaced, noting that neighboring Danbury reported $368,000 in net profit from a similar program in the last 12 months. Stackpole indicated that any future program would require an RFP and mayoral decision. Representative Adams raised concerns about the process of adding vehicles by default after 60 days without response, calling it a presumption of guilt. Stackpole clarified that the city does provide refunds if a taxpayer proves the assessment was wrong. Representative Le Pine asked whether privacy concerns were the primary driver for ending the program; Stackpole affirmed that was one of several factors, along with administrative costs and the 50/50 split. A motion to move into executive session to discuss vendor-specific information failed due to technical difficulties with Zoom breakout rooms. The item was then recommitted to the Steering Committee by a voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approved two grant appropriations (F32.089 and F32.090) with votes of 8-0-0 and 7-0-1 respectively. - Item F32.091 (MTS review) was recommitted to the Steering Committee for future discussion, including a planned executive session when technology permits.

The Operations, Parks and Recreation Committee of the Board of Representatives held a remote meeting on June 18, 2026, at 7:01 PM, chaired by Representative Sandford. The committee addressed three agenda items: proposed fee increases for the E. Gaynor Brennan Golf Course and Terry Conners Ice Rink, and an update on the Eversource Underground Cable Modernization Project. All items were discussed with presentations from city staff and Eversource representatives. Consent Calendar - No items were listed on a consent calendar; all three agenda items were discussed individually. Discussion Items - OPR32.012 – Golf Course Fee Schedule: Director Kevin Murray and Golf Course Superintendent Hidago Nagashima presented a proposed three-year fee increase for E. Gaynor Brennan Golf Course, with a $2 per year increase over three years. Changes include reclassifying Friday as weekend pricing, eliminating senior/junior discounts on that day. Revenue will fund irrigation, bunker renovations, and cart path improvements. The committee discussed timing of the increase (expected to take effect in August or September 2026 if approved through the full board process). Representative Zachary asked about inflation adjustments and comparison to competitors; Director Murray noted the course is currently the lowest-priced in the area. The committee voted unanimously (8-0) to approve the resolution and public hearing. - OPR32.013 – Ice Rink Fee Schedule: Director Murray and Ice Rink Manager Rich Johnson presented a five-year fee increase plan for Terry Conners Ice Rink. Last increase was in July 2023, and the rink now lags 36% behind nearby rinks. Proposed increases target birthday parties, ice rentals, and summer camps, with a 2.5% increase on ice time (about $125 per skater for Stanford Youth Hockey). Summer camp fees rise from $375 to $390. The committee expressed appreciation for keeping costs low and voted unanimously (8-0) to approve the resolution and public hearing. - OPR32.014 – Eversource Underground Cable Modernization Project Review: Eversource representatives Eric Barber (Project Director), Glenn McDonald (Senior Project Manager), and Chris Farrell (Community Relations) provided an update. Construction began in January 2026; 13 of 26 vaults have been installed (50%), and duct bank (trenching) is 8% complete. Project timeline remains unchanged, with completion expected through 2027 and into 2028. Questions from Representative Finkel addressed traffic detours and residential complaints; Eversource noted that traffic management plans are approved by the city but sometimes altered by police. Representative Didalo asked about pavement restoration and coordination with Aquarion Water Company; Eversource explained temporary restoration standards and ongoing work with Aquarion to address aging water mains discovered during excavation. Chair Sandford inquired about project pacing; McDonald clarified that vault installation is front-loaded and duct bank work will accelerate. The committee agreed to schedule another update in October or November 2026. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution for Golf Course Fee Schedule (OPR32.012): The committee voted 8-0 to approve the resolution and public hearing, sending the proposal to the full Board of Representatives for a public hearing in July 2026 and final approval in August. - Approved Resolution for Ice Rink Fee Schedule (OPR32.013): The committee voted 8-0 to approve the resolution and public hearing, following a similar timeline. - Eversource Update Received: No vote was taken; the committee noted the progress and agreed to a follow-up update in late 2026. - Next Steps: The public hearings for both fee schedules will occur at the July 18 and 19, 2026, meetings of the full Board. Eversource will continue its outreach and provide another update before the winter holidays. The meeting adjourned at 7:43 PM.

The Land Use-Urban Redevelopment Committee of the Stamford Board of Representatives met remotely on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 7:01 p.m., chaired by Co-Chair Hughes (Co-Chair Price excused). The sole agenda item was LU32.009, an ordinance to establish a Conservation Commission. After extensive discussion, the committee approved two amendments and then voted 5-3 to postpone the item definitely to the next committee meeting. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar was presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the meeting. All testimony came from invited guests and committee/ex-officio members. Discussion Items - Ordinance Establishing a Conservation Commission (LU32.009) – Rep. Camporeale, a co-sponsor, provided background: the ordinance originated from requests by the public and the Environmental Protection Board (EPB) to modernize code and separate conservation from wetland responsibilities. The revised draft clarifies the commission is purely advisory and can operate with existing staff at no new cost. Director Clausi of the EPB expressed strong support, noting the commission could address broader environmental issues (e.g., invasive species, open space planning, climate resilience) beyond EPB’s regulatory workload. He flagged a correction in Section 6-23-1a (agency name) and suggested the commission might benefit from 7 members instead of 5. Land Use Bureau Chief Blessing and Director Quiñones also spoke in favor, emphasizing the commission would be advisory only and would not delay land-use applications (statutory 35-day referral period runs in parallel). Several committee members and ex-officio representatives raised questions about housing neutrality, potential obstruction of development, appointment challenges, staffing, and the commission’s role in accepting land. Rep. Camporeale and invited guests repeatedly stressed the commission’s purely advisory nature and that it cannot approve, deny, or delay projects. A motion by Rep. Field to approve the item for public hearing failed for lack of a second. Key Outcomes - Amendment 1 (unanimous 8-0-0) – Corrected the agency name in Section 6-23-1a from “State of Connecticut Environmental Protection Agency” to “Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.” - Amendment 2 (unanimous 8-0-0) – Replaced the existing draft ordinance with the revised draft submitted on June 16, 2026, to reflect all prior offline edits. - Motion to Postpone Definitely (passed 5-3-0) – Carried by roll call: Co-Chair Hughes and Reps. Adams, Beckham, Gardner, and Pelliccia voted yes; Reps. Boudreau, Field, and Finkel voted no. The item will automatically appear on the next Land Use-Urban Redevelopment Committee agenda. - The meeting adjourned at 8:53 p.m.

The Personnel Committee of the Board of Representatives met on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 7:01 PM in the Democratic Caucus Room, 888 Washington Blvd., 4th Floor, Stamford, CT, and remotely via Zoom. The meeting, chaired by Vice Chair Bobby Pavia, was adjourned at 7:25 PM. The sole agenda item was the approval of an employment contract for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Officer, Janeene Freeman. Discussion Items - Contract Overview: Paula Russell, Director of Human Resources, presented the contract for the DEI Officer position. The term commenced May 4, 2026, and expires November 30, 2029, with potential extensions up to five years. The annual salary is $179,741 (pay plan grade 7, step 3), consistent with Personnel Commission approval. Benefits include leave, health/life insurance, and participation in the city's retirement plan (457 defined contribution plan) with a vesting schedule: 25% city match after one year, increasing to 100% after four years. The position is full-time, exempt, and requires flexibility for evenings/weekends. - Provisional Status: Rep. Gross questioned the employee starting before contract approval. Director Russell explained the employee serves in a provisional capacity; if the contract were rejected, they would become at-will. Chief of Staff Bridget Fox noted this is standard practice for cabinet-level positions. - DEI Role Clarification: Rep. Salas asked for a description of the DEI officer's duties, noting national controversy. Chief Fox explained the role is internal and external: conducting trainings (e.g., for new employees, public safety), launching initiatives (e.g., Veterans Resource Center, ADA Council), coordinating community events (e.g., unity breakfasts, interfaith clergy meetings), and serving as a liaison between the mayor's office and diverse communities. Rep. Hill highlighted the officer's work in fostering dialogue across silos. Director Russell added that the officer helps HR revise job descriptions to consider diverse backgrounds (e.g., experience vs. degrees). - Position Description Revisions: Rep. Pollack asked about revisions to the position description made in May 2026. Chief Fox stated the changes were minor, non-substantive, and reflected lessons from the first term. - First DEI Officer: Rep. Gross confirmed this is the second DEI officer; the first resigned to take a private sector job. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve: A motion to approve Item 1 (P32.009 – employment contract for DEI Officer Janeene Freeman) was made, seconded, and passed unanimously by a vote of 6-0-0 (Chair Weinberg, Vice Chair Pavia, Reps. Gross, Hill, Pollack, and Salas in favor; Rep. de la Cruz absent). The Board of Finance had previously approved the contract on June 10, 2026 (4-0-0).

The Stamford Planning Board met on June 10, 2026, to consider several zoning referrals and a special permit. The board discussed a proposed zone change and special permit for McDonald's at 1103 East Main Street, a revised variance application for 47 Ferris Avenue, and a side-yard setback variance for 98 Haviland Road. All items were concluded with votes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 19, 2026 meeting without amendments. Discussion Items - Zoning Board Referral – Zone Change (ZB 226-09, McDonald's Real Estate Company): Applicant Raymond Rizzio proposed changing the zoning of 1103 East Main Street from CN (Neighborhood Business) to CL (Limited Commercial) to allow a second drive-through lane. Rizzio argued the current CN zone is inappropriate for this high-traffic location and that CL is more suitable, citing other drive-through operations in CL zones. Planning staff member Lindsay noted that the comprehensive plan designates this area as Mixed Use 1 (MU1), which prioritizes pedestrian and neighborhood character, and that CL is auto-oriented and less aligned with that vision. Rizzio countered that the change would improve safety and reduce queue spillover onto East Main Street. Commissioners debated spot-zoning concerns but ultimately found the change practical given the long-standing McDonald's use. The board voted unanimously to recommend the zone change. - Zoning Board Referral – Special Permit (ZB 226-10, McDonald's Real Estate Company): The related application sought a special permit for a second drive-through lane, a new canopy, digital menu boards, and parking lot reorganization. Rizzio presented traffic data showing queuing capacity would increase from 11 to 23 vehicles, reducing peak occupancy from 127%–164% to 43%–78%. He cited similar successful conversions in Norwalk and Branford, with no significant demand increase. Commissioners discussed reducing parking from 37 spaces (exceeding the required 33) to create outdoor patio space and remove three awkward parallel parking spaces along East Main Street. The board added recommendations to eliminate those spaces, relocate handicapped spaces, and expand the patio. The special permit was approved unanimously with those recommendations. - ZBA Referral – 47 Ferris Avenue (ZB 021-26, Revised): The applicant sought multiple variances (lot coverage, setbacks, parking) to add a residential second story to a commercial building in an R6 zone. No applicant representative appeared. Staff noted the application was incomplete and had already been extended once; the ZBA faced a deadline. The board voted unanimously to deny the application as incomplete. - ZBA Referral – 98 Haviland Road (ZB 032-26): The applicant proposed a 24- by 24-foot attached garage requiring side-yard setback variances (15.3 ft vs. 25 ft required, combined 32 ft vs. 35 ft). No representative attended. The property has wetlands and conservation easements; the existing garage would be converted to a home office. Staff noted the variances are reasonable given lot constraints. The board approved the denial? Wait—the board approved this item. Actually in the transcript: they made a motion to approve? Let's check: after discussion, they said "I'll move" and second, all in favor, passes unanimously. So it was approved. Yes. So it says "the board approved unanimously." Key Outcomes - McDonald's Zone Change (ZB 226-09): Approved unanimously. The board recommended the change from CN to CL, noting the pre-existing use and traffic benefits. - McDonald's Special Permit (ZB 226-10): Approved unanimously with recommendations to remove three parallel parking spaces on East Main Street and expand outdoor patio seating. - 47 Ferris Avenue (ZB 021-26): Denied unanimously due to incomplete application and lack of representation. - 98 Haviland Road (ZB 032-26): Approved unanimously for side-yard setback variances. - The board announced the next regular meeting on June 23, 2026, will be chaired by Jeremy, and the board will be on hiatus in July, reconvening August 11, 2026.

Note: The meeting began at 6:36 PM on June 8, 2026, according to the chair, but this summary uses the date provided (June 9, 2026) as instructed. The discrepancy is noted. The Stamford Zoning Board held a virtual public hearing and regular meeting on June 9, 2026, via Zoom. The main agenda item was a proposed zoning text amendment (Application 226‑08) to strengthen sustainability regulations, including a sustainability scorecard, tree protection standards, and requirements for solar or green roofs on large new buildings. The board also approved several coastal site plan reviews, a map change, and an administrative modification for the Italian Center. Consent Calendar - CSPR 1231 – 52 Congress Street: Legalization of finished basement, first-floor addition, and new second floor (within CAM boundary). Approved with conditions from EPB, Engineering, DEEP, and Harbor Management Commission. - CSPR 1232 – 24 Ripowam Road: Renovation and second-floor addition (within CAM boundary). Approved with comment letters. - CSPR 1234 – 145 Ocean Drive West: Construction of gazebo, walkways, walls, and site improvements (within CAM boundary). Approved with conditions. - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony on Sustainability Text Amendment (Application 226‑08) Over a dozen members of the public spoke, nearly all in strong support. Key speakers and their positions: - Sue Halpern (Elmcroft Road): Expressed support, noting the urban heat island effect and disparities in tree coverage (13% in South End vs. 65% in North Stamford). - Paula Woodman (110 Old North Stamford Road): Strong support for tree protection; praised requirements for inventories, protection plans, and meaningful replacement. - Virgil de la Cruz (94 Davenport Drive): Supported but urged going further (e.g., net‑zero buildings), citing UN climate reports. - Mike Papa (49 Boweton Street): Neutral, critical of missing stewardship and maintenance. - Michael Moore (President, Stamford Downtown): Asked for the hearing to remain open so his organization could deliberate further; not in opposition. - Melanie Hollis (41 Fairmont Avenue): Supported, asked about tree replacement applying to commercial properties and new schools. - Eleanor Blumstrom (26 Coolidge Avenue): Strong support; noted equity, tree protection, and green roofs addressing heat and stormwater. - Jeanette Billichnanski (125 Idlewood Drive): Supported, suggested protecting river canopies, incentivizing solar, and public hearings for special permits. - Dave Adams (Glenbrook Road): Supported, suggested increasing replacement tree minimum from 1.5 inches to 2 or 3 inches caliper. - Salvatore Zarella (Keith Street): Supported but advocated an “envelope‑first” approach over green roofs; offered free consulting. Discussion Items - Sustainability Text Amendment (Application 226‑08): Ralph Glessing (Land Use Bureau) presented the proposal. Key provisions: - Sustainability scorecard requirement with a mandatory grade for developments ≥10 residential units or ≥10,000 sq ft commercial; updated with categories for new construction (residential/mixed‑use, large‑scale commercial/industrial) and rehabilitation. - Tree protection: All trees ≥4 inches DBH must be shown; removed trees replaced by total diameter (inch‑for‑inch) or fee‑in‑lieu to city tree fund. Protection during construction around root zones. - Solar or green roofs: Required on new roofs ≥5,000 sq ft, with at least 50% coverage by either solar panels or a green roof; special permit available for exceptions. - Solar canopies over parking lots reclassified as permitted obstructions to allow placement in front yards. - Board members asked about handling mechanical equipment, water efficiency (scorecard includes water management), and the feasibility of larger replacement trees. The Planning Board recommended increasing replacement tree caliper to 2 inches. - Map Change (Application 226‑07) – 27–31 Melrose Place and 445 Fairfield Avenue: Staff presented two options – all parcels to ML (light industrial) or three to ML and one to MG (general industrial). The board discussed noxious uses allowed in MG. Keith Walker opposed rezoning without a specific plan; others favored ML to limit intense uses. Motion to rezone all four parcels to ML passed 3‑1 (Keith opposed). - Administrative Modification – Italian Center of Stamford (1620 Newfield Avenue): Request to add paddle tennis, Padell and pickleball courts, pergola, shade structures, and lights. Attorney Michael Cacase noted the courts are not closer to residents than existing lit tennis courts. Approved with conditions from Engineering, EPB, and Fire Marshal. - End of meeting discussion: The board briefly discussed the status of the 14‑acre site (former office park) – no residential currently permitted; conditions remain unmet. Key Outcomes - Text Amendment 226‑08 was continued to the next meeting on June 22, 2026, at 6:30 PM (on Zoom) to allow further public input and board deliberation. - Map Change 226‑07 was approved (3‑1) to rezone all four parcels to ML (light industrial). - CSPR 1231, 1232, and 1234 were approved unanimously with attached conditions. - Administrative Modification for the Italian Center was approved unanimously, subject to conditions including compliance with lighting ordinances. - The board will meet next on June 22, 2026, for continuations only.