PZB 'Torn' Over Controversial Downtown Milford Project

MILFORD, CT — The Planning and Zoning Board deferred a vote on a controversial downtown mixed-use project and at least one member admitted that they were "torn" over the project.

Patrick Rose, Rose Tiso and Company are seeking approval for a mixed-use project at 67 Prospect St in downtown Milford. Plans include 36 apartments and restoring the historic Baldwin House, which would be used for commercial space.

Some neighbors have expressed concerns about traffic and drainage issues, and they have also indicated that the project is too dense for the area.

PZB member Joseph Castignoli said the developer had addressed all concerns and the project
should go forward, according to meeting minutes. PZB member Peg Kearney said she regretted the placement of the project and felt it would fit better elsewhere.

PZB member John Mortimer agreed, but expressed the opinion that Section 7.1 is in the regulations for a reason and could pertain when the scale of the project is not in keeping with the neighborhood, meeting minutes state. He said he would support a reduced scale.

PZB member James Kader agreed with both comments and said that though he respected the compromises made, he would also welcome a reduction in the scale of the project, meeting minutes state.

PZB member C. Robert Satti noted that he also felt that traffic safety and scale are a concern. He said he would want to condition an approval on completion of the Baldwin House and not allow a
Certificate of Occupancy (CO) to be issued to any portion of the project until all work was completed per the settlement with the historic commission.

Castignoli asked City Planner David Sulkis if the conditions for approval had been satisfied. Sulkis said that the plans addressed the City Engineer and Fire Marshall’s concerns, as well as that the Baldwin House restored with wood siding and a bronze plaque.

Castignoli moved to approve with the following modifications]

1) The original house restored in accordance with the stipulated agreement with the Milford Historic Preservation Commission. All runoff is responsibility of owner, all trees to the left or north of Baldwin House shall be planted at a minimum height of 15 feet tall.

Kader asked what happens if the motion fails. Sulkis said the motion should be made in the affirmative, such that if a board member disagrees with the motion she or he would vote AGAINST the motion. Sulkis said that if a motion fails, another motion can be made, or the vote could rest with a denial. He said the applicant can appeal decisions, resubmit the application, change submitted plans, or do nothing.

Satti said he respected important points brought out by the community at the public hearings regarding the scale of the project, parking concerns, and providing proper turnaround space. He said he will consider all these factors prior to the vote.

PZB member Nancy Austin agreed with Satti that this is not an easy decision. Kader said he feels torn in that the project will likely benefit downtown but impacts an historic neighborhood.

No vote was taken at the meeting earlier this month and the application remains pending.