In a meeting marked by urgency and a plea for understanding, the Town of Stratford Inland Wetlands Commission gathered to address a pressing issue involving local development and environmental regulations. As the evening unfolded, Nicholas Owen, representing Stratford Properties Inc., laid out a complex situation that has stirred both concern and confusion within the community.

Owen, accompanied by managing member Peter Prezioso, detailed their plans for a five-lot development on Peters Lane and James Farm Road. However, the project hit a snag when it was revealed that Prezioso, a seasoned builder with decades of experience in neighboring towns, had inadvertently cut down trees on the property without the necessary permits. This misstep, Owen explained, stemmed from a misunderstanding of local regulations regarding wetland permits, which differ from those in other municipalities where Prezioso has worked.

The crux of the matter lies in the transfer of wetlands permits. Unlike in other towns, Stratford requires that permits be transferred to new owners when property changes hands. Owen expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding this requirement, stating that they had not received the necessary wetlands permit documentation prior to commencing work. He presented a check for $300 and the appropriate paperwork to facilitate the transfer of the permit to Stratford Properties, hoping to lift a cease and desist order that currently halts their operations.

In a collaborative spirit, Owen assured the commission that they are committed to rectifying the situation. An engineer has been hired to develop a restoration plan, which they intend to submit for review in the coming weeks. Owen emphasized the importance of working with the town’s superintendent, Kelly, who had previously visited the site to assess the situation. He noted that erosion controls, including a silt fence and a tracking pad, have been implemented to mitigate further environmental impact.

As the meeting progressed, the commission members listened intently, weighing the implications of the development against the need for environmental stewardship. The outcome of this discussion will not only affect the future of the Peters Lane project but also set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in Stratford moving forward. The community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that balances development with the preservation of their cherished wetlands.