Southbury Board seeks amendments to HB 7281 for housing flexibility at Personnel Village

In a pivotal government oversight hearing held on May 5, 2025, Connecticut lawmakers discussed House Bill 7281, which seeks to amend existing legislation regarding the Southbury Training School property, specifically the area known as Personnel Village. This property has long been earmarked for affordable senior housing, a vision that has faced significant challenges over the years.

The bill was introduced following a request from the Southbury Board of Selectmen, who highlighted the pressing need for flexible housing solutions in a town with one of the highest senior populations in the state. The original intent of the property’s conveyance, established in 2013, was to facilitate the development of affordable senior housing. However, funding for such projects has dwindled, leading to the dissolution of the nonprofit Pierce Hollow Village in September 2023, which had aimed to spearhead the development.

Currently, Southbury is restricted to leasing the property solely for senior housing, a limitation that has stifled potential development opportunities. Proponents of HB 7281 argue that removing this restriction would allow the town to explore a broader range of housing options, potentially including multi-generational and affordable housing, which could better meet the community's diverse needs.

During the hearing, representatives expressed concerns about the implications of loosening these restrictions. Some lawmakers worried that without specific mandates for affordable housing, the property could be developed into high-end residences, further exacerbating the housing crisis in Connecticut. However, supporters of the bill emphasized that the existing limitations have already hindered progress, and that flexibility is essential for attracting new development proposals.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of the proposed changes. A request was made to modify the bill to allow Southbury to retain funds from any sale or lease of the property, which would help cover the costs incurred during the development process. This amendment aims to incentivize the town to invest in the property without the fear of losing financial resources to the state.

As the hearing concluded, the committee members were urged to consider the broader context of housing needs in Southbury and the potential benefits of HB 7281. The outcome of this legislation could significantly impact the future of affordable housing in the region, as Southbury seeks to navigate the complexities of development in a changing economic landscape. The committee's decision will be closely watched by community members and local officials alike, as they hope for a resolution that balances flexibility with the pressing need for affordable housing solutions.