May 8, 2003
Special Public Meeting
Chairman Robert Hiscox called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. The meeting was taped. Francis Carpentier was seated for Gil Graveline and Alexander Delelle was seated for Donald Pomeroy.
Chairman Hiscox explained that the Planning & Zoning Commission has been working with Harrall-Michalowski Associates, Inc., on updating Prospect’s Zoning Regulations. This special public meeting was scheduled to allow for open discussion from the public regarding any particular areas of concern. Chairman Hiscox further explained that the Regulations have been reformatted to be more user friendly and highlighted some of the changes/additions made to date.
Public Comment:
Jeff Slapikas stated that he would like to see an amendment in the regulations regarding setbacks for detached buildings, possibly using minimum/maximum square footage. Mr. Slapikas also suggested setting a maximum height regulation for fencing.
Zygmunt Baldowski stated a concern with increased truck traffic on Scott Road and that access from Scott Road to industrial property along Scott Road should be prohibited.
Jim Borbas asked if copies of the draft updates to the regulations are available for sale. Mr. Borbas stated that he would not want the updates to the regulations to be too encroaching on the rights of property owners to do what they want with their property. Mr. Borbas also asked how the updates get adopted. Chairman Hiscox explained that when the final draft of the updated regulations is completed, the Planning & Zoning Commission would schedule public hearings for comments from the public. Subsequent to the public hearings the Planning & Zoning Commission would vote to adopt the updated regulations.
Mark Guastaferri cited areas of concern pertaining to commercial property: 1) Could the Land Use Officer to make a determination when a type of profession or business is not listed in the regulations; 2) “Table of Uses” does not allow a bakery, church or laboratory in a commercial zone, also doesn’t allow medical facility or tanning salon in a design commercial zone; 3) Lighting for merchandise display area has to be turned off within 30 minutes after closing or not later than 11 p.m.; 4) Would an entire sign box have to be removed when a business leaves within 65 days of end of business or just lettering for the business; 5) Maximum size of commercial signs is too small in a multi-tenant building; 6) Corporate logo signs may not be uniform in color. Regulations state that directory signs have to be uniform in color; 7) Property owner responsible for removal of signs when tenant moves; 8) No roof signs except architecturally detailed facades; 9) Page 128 missing minimum width of all buffer areas in the district sections; 10) Requirement for site plan sealed by surveyor is costly for change in use when parking requirements increase. Mr. Guastaferri also questioned the size limit on garages under “Accessory Uses in Residential Zones."
Sue Iwinski read a letter dated May 8, 2003 signed by fifteen Platt Drive residents with suggestions for changes to home occupation regulations.
Zygmunt Baldowski commented that with many people losing their jobs, they should have the right to operate a home-based business as long as it doesn’t interfere with their neighbors.
Discussion was held on unsightly material and Chairman Hiscox noted that what may be unattractive to one may not be unattractive to another.
Alan Brook, stated his frustration with people who move to Prospect to get out of the city but then want to make changes when they move here.
Ken Faroni asked that consideration be given to amending the current regulations to allow earth excavation by special permit in any zone. Mr. Faroni had submitted a copy of the Town of Woodbury’s regulations for review at a previous meeting.
Mike Semeraro commented on the increasing number of tractor-trailer traffic, backhoes and other commercial vehicles being used on public roads in residential neighborhoods.
Discussion was held on commercial vehicles parked in residential zones as well as all-terrain vehicles. Comments were also made on recent changes to the regulations regarding elderly housing and allowing for 3-bedroom units.
Motion by A. Havican, seconded by T. Galvin to adjourn at 9:10 p.m. Unanimous.