The Connecticut General Assembly has passed Senate Bill 333 (S.B. 333), aimed at restoring more local control over planning and zoning decisions, the eminent domain process, and the management of municipal property. The bill, now awaiting Governor Ned Lamont’s signature, has garnered bipartisan support.
Introduced by the Planning and Development Committee, S.B. 333 seeks to amend restrictions that have centralized key aspects of municipal governance at the state level. This legislative action is a response to previous laws that imposed state oversight over local decisions.
The bill was authored and championed by Senator Ryan Fazio, who serves as the ranking member on the Planning & Development Committee.
S.B. 333 had the support of co-sponsors: Representative David Michel (D – Stamford), Representative Tom O’Dea (R – New Canaan), Senator Rob Sampson (R – Wolcott), Representative Christine Conley (D – Groton), Representative Tom Delnicki (R – South Windsor), and Representative William Pizzuto (R – Waterbury).
“This bill rectifies past mistakes where local voices were sidelined,” remarked Representative Michel, reflecting on the consensus among his colleagues.
Rep. O’Dea, who worked closely with Fazio, said, “This session was highlighted by successful attempts to remedy the relationship between the state and our municipalities, especially in regard to local issues of zoning and development. One of those positive steps was S.B. 333.”
