Matthew Childress

The Commission's regular meeting addressed several public hearings that were continued to a subsequent special meeting due to livestreaming technical issues. Key discussions focused on a Zoning Map Change Application for 2 Filley Street to rezone from R-30 to PLR for a proposed six-unit residential development, where staff and the public expressed concerns regarding density, consistency with surrounding single-family neighborhoods, engineering issues, and site access. Another public hearing concerned a Special Permit and Revised Site Plan for 22 Tobey Road for an industrial building expansion involving soil disturbance and a reduction in required parking spaces; staff expressed support for the applicant's receptiveness to revisions. The third public hearing involved a Special Permit Use Application for 31 Tobey Road to allow a used car dealer and repairer establishment, which raised questions regarding outdoor storage, waste management plans, and the property owner's overall compliance with previous site plans. New business items, including a Sidewalk Plan review and Regional Planning Commission Appointments, were also continued.

The continued regular meeting addressed several public hearings, including a request for a zone map change for 12 Filley Street and a special permit for a Used Car Dealer and Repairer establishment at 31 Tobey Road, Unit 2; both hearings were extended to the February 26, 2026 meeting. The Special Permit and Revised Site Plan Application for 22 Tobey Road, involving soil disturbance and parking space reduction for an addition, was approved subject to a revision in the general conditions. In New Business, the Commission reviewed and approved the Sidewalk Plan for 5-7-9 Northwood Drive and 9 West Dudley Town Road. The approval included waiving the requirement for a sidewalk on Northwood Drive while deferring the construction of a potential future sidewalk there, and approving the sidewalk installation on West Dudley Town Road. Additionally, the Commission appointed Chair Byron Lester as the representative to the Regional Planning Commission.

Discussions during the meeting included a partnership with the West Hartford-Bloomfield Health District to bring monthly Health Education Programs starting in February, covering topics such as healthy food options and mental health. An Alzheimer's Association program previously scheduled for December was rescheduled to May 2026. The commission discussed supporting the COA Mission, which focuses on honoring the dignity and diversity of citizens aged 55 or older through various programs. The Director of Operations and Communications shared intentions to remain in contact quarterly with the commission. The commission revisited the practice of visiting various local housing developments between March and June 2026 to assess resident needs. It was noted that the Commission Chair and Staff Liaison are required to report annually to the Town Council on accomplishments. During public comments, there was a discussion on updating the Board and Commission application form questions. Information regarding an Aging in Place Safely Grant, with an application deadline extended to January 15, 2026, offering up to $5000 for home repairs, was distributed. The commission also began planning giveaway items for the upcoming Senior Expo in September.

The special meeting focused on several agenda items. Under Old Business, the Council discussed and unanimously approved a change to the Council Rules of Procedure, moving the meeting frequency from once a month to bi-weekly. Additionally, the Council considered and took action regarding the 2026-2027 Proposed Town Council Meeting Schedule. New Business involved an in-depth discussion and vote on appointments and changes to the Charter Revision Commission, which passed with an 8-1-0 vote.

The meeting addressed Old Business items including Filley Park, where ice skating is currently not supported by ice conditions, and a status update on the Rockwell Park project. The committee discussed the LaSalette plan, noting a need to focus on updating the Master Parks Plan for the entire system rather than focusing solely on one park. Support was given for incorporating a Trail Committee to provide oversight for trails. Under New Business, the committee supported the presented FY 2027 Capital Plan. Key committee actions included supporting the Maplewood Park tree and pollinator improvement plan for 2026 and noting a member's resignation due to relocation. During public comments, a recommendation was made to propose naming the greenway after Councilman Merritt to the Town Council.