A Message on 804 Fountain St. from the First Selectman, Mica Cardozo

ResponsesHousing

Sep 12

Dear Neighbor,

In recent weeks, I have heard from many residents with questions related to who decides what can be built in Town and where. As First Selectman, I feel it would be helpful to provide timely information about our Town government and the way we make these decisions. So, I’d like to take a moment to provide some clarity around these questions.

For projects on publicly owned property, such as the former Country Club of Woodbridge, the Board of Selectmen is authorized to make decisions on how the property can be used, with input from various Town Boards and Commissions and residents.

Importantly, if the Town chooses to sell or lease publicly owned property, the sale or lease must be approved by Town voters based on the parameters in our Charter.

For commercial or larger multifamily projects on privately-owned property, such as the proposed multi-unit housing on Fountain Street, our Town Plan & Zoning (TPZ) Commission, not the Board of Selectmen, is the decision-making authority.

When a developer submits a proposal or application to TPZ, the members of that bipartisan commission consider the application in accordance with local zoning regulations and applicable State laws.

As part of this process, members of the public are given the opportunity to provide comments at public hearings. Appeals would go to a State court. Our local Zoning Board of Appeals does not have a role in this process.

The Board of Selectmen does not have authority to make land use decisions related to privately-owned property. This is clearly outlined in both Connecticut law and our Town Charter.

Community members are welcome to express their perspectives to the Board of Selectmen privately or at our meetings through public comment. Our focus on the BOS is to uphold the rights of our residents under the law and ensure our laws are followed regarding the statutory processes.

That said, as your First Selectman, I want to be clear that I support thoughtfully expanding diverse housing and commercial opportunities in Woodbridge, particularly options that meet the needs of our workforce, seniors, young professionals, and others.

At the same time, it is appropriate and necessary for concerns like those raised by our public safety officials about any large development to be carefully reviewed and resolved through the proper public process.

That balance, welcoming thoughtful growth while ensuring projects meet our safety, environmental, and other standards, is essential for our future.

I hope this information helps answer questions. For those who would like to talk about this more, my door at Town Hall is always open.