Newtown P&Z Continues Hearing On Cold Spring Road Elderly Housing Proposal

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Planning & Zoning Commission on Aug. 7 continued a public hearing on a proposal to build an age-restricted housing development at 12 Cold Spring Road, following nearly two hours of presentations and public comment.

Nagy Enterprises, Inc. is seeking a zoning text amendment to allow subsurface sewage disposal systems in EH-10 elderly housing zones, as well as a zone change from R-2 to EH-10 for the property. The changes would permit the construction of cluster-style, single-family homes for residents age 55 and older.

Attorney Thomas Cohen, representing the applicant, said the development would feature energy-efficient homes with solar panels, two bedrooms on the first floor, and spacing of at least 30 feet between units. Developer AJ Grasso of Prestige Builders said the plan includes a clubhouse and pool, with homes built to zero-energy standards.

Engineer Jason Edwards told commissioners that advances in septic technology make subsurface systems viable and noted similar systems in Newtown have performed without groundwater issues.

Several residents spoke in opposition, citing concerns over environmental impacts, aquifer protection, traffic, stormwater management, density, and changes to neighborhood character. Others questioned the project’s alignment with conservation goals and warned of potential decreases in property values.

Commissioners discussed driveway access, open space preservation, and ongoing health department review. The panel voted unanimously to continue the hearing to its Aug. 21 meeting.

In other business, Planning Director Rob Sibley reported on a Monroe zoning amendment referral and a state permit notification for Interstate 84 climbing lane work in Newtown. The commission also unanimously approved minutes from its July 17 meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 8:48 p.m.