Newtown Selectmen Approve Open Space Deed for 6 Commerce Road After Divided Vote

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Board of Selectmen met Jan. 5, convening at 7:30 p.m., and voted to accept a state-approved modification of restrictive covenants for 6 Commerce Road, advancing the long-debated plan to preserve the property as open space or for recreational use only.

The board approved the action by a 2–1 vote, with First Selectman Bruce Walczak and Selectman Paul Lundquist voting in favor and Selectman Jeff Capeci opposed.

The vote follows the passage of Special Act 25-15 by the Connecticut General Assembly last year, which removed a longstanding economic development requirement attached to the 37-acre parcel and replaced it with an open space and recreation restriction. The law took effect June 30, 2025, after being signed by Gov. Ned Lamont.

During the meeting, Lundquist reviewed the property’s legislative and development history, noting that while the land was conveyed to Newtown in 2004 for economic development, no project advanced over more than two decades due to environmental sensitivity and public opposition. He said extensive public testimony and support from the town’s state delegation led to the legislative change.

Capeci raised concerns about the role of the Planning and Zoning Commission under the town charter, arguing that formal acceptance by the commission should precede any final action. He proposed an amendment to delay the resolution’s effect until Planning and Zoning formally accepts the modification.

The board rejected the amendment, concluding that acceptance of the deed does not itself designate specific uses beyond open space or recreation and that planning review could follow. The original motion then passed.

The meeting drew extensive public comment, both in person and in writing, largely in favor of preserving the property. Residents and representatives of conservation organizations cited the parcel’s proximity to the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, the Deep Brook watershed, and a sole-source aquifer as reasons to prevent future development. Several speakers described the land as irreplaceable once lost.

A smaller number of residents urged the board to retain flexibility for future economic development, citing potential impacts on the town’s tax base.

In other business, the board unanimously approved a $5,000 budget transfer from an unfilled Social Services position to fund a midyear wage adjustment and reclassification in Senior Services.

Selectmen also approved a $20,000 special appropriation for legal services related to non-monetary insurance claims, fully offset by insurance reimbursement, and a $1,500 transfer to cover overtime in the Tax Assessor’s Office tied to grand list preparation.

Appointments and driveway bond releases were also approved without opposition.

The meeting adjourned at 8:49 p.m.