Farm Brewery One Step Closer to Reality in North Branford

NORTH BRANFORD, CT - Zoning officials had a preliminary discussion regarding the concept of a farm brewery at 418 Forest Road – at DeFrancesco Farms, at their November meeting.

Alex DeFrancesco recused himself from the discussion but Attorney Sylvia Recoska, representing him, stated the goal is to clarify the new regulation, requirements and get feedback and/or direction for an application for a farm brewery in the future.

The concept, she said, will propose a town tavern and restore a historic building. After the meeting in front of zoners, other meetings will be scheduled with town department heads.

The property is currently used as a farm today and will not change with this proposal, Recoska said. The proposed addition will be added to the back of the building, she added.

The front of the building will be remodeled and remain two stories. Everything from the farm will be used for the brewery, Recoska said.

DeFrancesco has been very active in the movement of planting hops for beer growing in Connecticut.

DeFrancesco said since the state legislature passed legislation allowing the brewing of beer under a manufacturing permit on a farm it has been his intention to do so. DeFrancesco has worked with Town Planner Carey Duques on making sure his plan would work with town regulations in mind.

Earlier this year, zoners approved the amendment, It went into effect February 16th - meaning anyone, including DeFrancesco can apply to operate a farm brewery in North Branford, after that date.

When and if an application is received, the zoners would review it, hold a public hearing, and eventually vote on it.

DeFranceso said while he wants to have the beer operation and farm to table dinners at the farm, the family also wants to maintain the farm as an agriculture-based operation.

Discussion at the November meeting centered around having two access driveways, signage and parking.

Chairman Harry Dulak was asked if a traffic study would be required. He stated that the commission will discuss that at the next meeting when there are more members in attendance to provide some direction.

Photo by Jack Kramer