Wetlands Decision On Vernon-Ellington Field Plan Delayed

VERNON/ELLINGTON, CT — Just before a decision on the matter was postponed until next month, a municipal expert and an independent consultant told the Ellington Inland Wetlands Commission that atheltic fields proposed for land straddling the Vernon-Ellington line in the Hockanum River corridor make up a better use than farmland because of scheduled improvements.

The commentary was part of a cumbersome virtual public hearing designed to give officials, representatives from youth sports leagues in both towns and the general public a chance to weigh in on the project.

The commissioners ultimately decided to continue the public hearing until July 13 to study the plans further.

A review and approval of the wetlands impact on the Ellington side is required for the proposal to go forward. Planning officials said wetlands preservation moves and river corridor improvements are part of the plans.

The field project carries a $1.193 million purchase price for the town of Vernon with a cooperartive agreement with Ellington.

The plan is to also partner with local lacrosse and soccer clubs, officials said. The money would be taken from Vernon's general fund with extra revenues from money management. No borrowing has been proposed.

At least three fields are targeted, along with a wetlands preserve and improvements along the river. Ellington would share the services. The eventual addition of a snack shack served by a contained septic system has also been proposed. Lights are not part of the plan.

The parcels are currently leased farmland and wetlands, roughly behind the CVS and Walgreens stores between Windermere Avenue and Route 83, officials said.

They are:

• 21.52 acres assessed in Ellington for $799,660 and listed for $550,000. Vernon received an appraisal of $455,000 and made a successful bid of $445,000.
• 9.9 acres along the Hockanum listed for $27,270 and bought for $20,000.
• 11 acres in Ellington assessed at $378,000, listed for $399,000 and bought for $278,000.