Newtown P&Z Approves Senior Living Zone Change

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Planning & Zoning Commission approved zoning changes aimed at expanding senior living housing options and endorsed the sale of two municipal buildings during its July 17 meeting.

The commission unanimously endorsed a request from the Economic and Community Development Department to approve the sale and lease of municipally owned properties on the Fairfield Hills campus. The buildings, Shelton House on Keating Farms Avenue and Kent House on D.G. Beers Boulevard, are slated for redevelopment into residential mixed-use projects, including an estimated 200 mixed-income rental apartments with some commercial space.

The commission noted that the proposal aligns with the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development encouraging mixed-use development.

During a public hearing, the commission reviewed applications by GRC Construction LLC for a text amendment and zone change to create a Senior Living Residential District restricted to residents aged 55 and older. The amendments would remove sewer connection requirements, lower the minimum acreage, and increase unit density for senior housing developments.

GRC Construction representatives presented revisions to their plans, including reduced unit counts, removal of a swimming pool, and individual home entrances designed to match the town’s aesthetic and comply with septic regulations.

Several residents voiced opposition to the proposed zone change, citing concerns about increased traffic, septic system strain, neighborhood character, potential decline in property values, and impact on local aquifers and open space.

Commission members voted 3-2 in favor of approving both the text amendment and zone change applications. The approvals are consistent with the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development and will take effect on Aug. 9.

The meeting also included approval of amended minutes from the July 3 session and a report from the Planning Director on continuing education for land use commissioners.

The commission adjourned at 9 p.m.