By Beth Barhydt
The New Canaan Town Council, in a meeting marked by spirited debate, approved a series of recommendations to the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) on Monday night.
The POCD is a ten-year, state-mandated, planning document, meant to guide growth and development in New Canaan. It also identifies strategies to protect important resources and attributes of New Canaan. The plan sets the table for many initiatives the town will undertake.
The council’s decisions, often split along a narrow margin, reflect ongoing concerns over how the town should manage growth, infrastructure, and civic engagement.
The meeting, held in the Town Hall boardroom with a hybrid attendance option, brought together council members, town officials, and residents to discuss the non-binding document that outlines New Canaan’s planning priorities for the next decade.
Council Narrowly Approves Amendments
The council addressed nine proposed amendments to the POCD, each sparking debate among members. Chairman Michael Mauro and Vice Chairman Cristina Ross presided over the session, which began with a roll call confirming a quorum.
Among the most debated items was a motion to remove actions promoting the establishment of “overlay districts,” a zoning tool that can be used to guide specific types of development in designated areas. The motion passed by a narrow 7-5 vote, with proponents arguing that such districts complicate zoning decisions and undermine local control.
“This is about maintaining the simplicity and integrity of our zoning process,” said Chairman Mauro, who supported the motion. Opponents, however, argued that removing the overlay districts would limit flexibility in planning efforts.
A second motion aimed at curbing actions related to bicycle routes mandated by outside organizations also passed with a 7-5 vote. Supporters voiced concerns about ceding local planning authority to regional entities, while critics warned that the town might miss opportunities to enhance sustainable transportation options.
Sidewalk Expansion and Sustainability Measures Face Scrutiny
The council approved a controversial motion to eliminate actions that would expand sidewalks in New Canaan. The proposal, introduced by Councilman Luke Kaufman, was driven by concerns over budget constraints and ongoing maintenance challenges, particularly during winter months. “We need to address our existing sidewalk issues before considering any expansions,” Kaufman stated during the meeting. The motion passed by the same 7-5 vote margin.
Another closely watched motion focused on ensuring that actions related to sustainability, resilience, and climate change are based on scientific data rather than mandates lacking empirical support. “We need to make decisions grounded in data, not just aspirational goals,” said Councilman Eric Thunem, a strong supporter of the motion. Despite some objections that the language was redundant given the advisory nature of the POCD, the motion was approved.
Public Participation and Infrastructure
The council’s split vote led to the defeat of a motion intended to enhance civic participation in the Planning and Zoning Commission’s review of applications. The 6-6 tie was broken by First Selectman Dionna Carlson, who cast a vote against the motion. Advocates for the change argued that increasing public engagement could improve transparency and accountability in the town’s planning process. However, opponents maintained that the current level of public involvement meets or exceeds statutory requirements.
The council also approved amendments related to existing infrastructure, including modifications to policies on sewer capacity and private funding for infrastructure improvements. These changes, which passed 7-5, reflect ongoing concerns about the impact of development on town resources.
Final Endorsement
and Next Steps
The meeting concluded with a final vote on the overall POCD, incorporating the council’s recommendations. Councilman Thunem moved to endorse the POCD and return it to the Planning and Zoning Commission for finalization, along with the suggested amendments. The motion passed 11-1, with only Councilman Tom Butterworth voting against.
“This is a critical step in ensuring that the POCD reflects our community’s needs while remaining a flexible, advisory tool,” said Vice Chairman Ross following the vote.
The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the council’s recommendations on Wednesday.
The Planning & Zoning Commission reviewed the council’s recommendations on Wednesday night, accepting some.
The Planning & Zoning Commission will be hosting a public hearing on the 2024 POCD Draft on October 10th at 7pm, as a part of the adoption process.
While the POCD is a guiding document rather than a legally binding mandate, the council’s recommendations signal key priorities and concerns that may shape New Canaan’s approach to development in the coming years.
