The Town of Stratford Inland Wetlands Commission convened on February 21, 2024, to discuss significant environmental concerns regarding a proposed development project known as the Teakwood development. The meeting featured public comments from residents and officials, highlighting the potential ecological impacts of the project.

The session began with a call for public input, where several residents expressed their opposition to the development. Katie Bowe, a local resident, emphasized the importance of preserving the environment for future generations, arguing that the proposed development would primarily benefit developers financially rather than the community. She referenced the children's book "Paddle to the Sea" to illustrate how pollutants could travel from the development site to Long Island Sound, raising concerns about water quality.

Greg Dancho, another resident, echoed Bowe's sentiments, stressing the fragility of local ecosystems and the negative consequences of habitat loss due to development. He pointed out that the area serves as a vital wildlife corridor, and any disruption could lead to increased human-wildlife conflicts. Dancho also warned that wetlands play a crucial role in flood management, and their destruction could exacerbate flooding issues in the region.

State Representative Laura Dancho, who also spoke at the meeting, highlighted the historical context of the development proposal, noting that it had been postponed multiple times due to environmental concerns. She criticized the developer's attempts to mitigate these issues by merely reducing the number of homes and adding stormwater containment areas, arguing that such measures would not adequately address the ecological risks involved. Dancho detailed the ongoing flooding problems faced by residents in the area, emphasizing that the proposed development would likely worsen these conditions.

As the public comment period concluded, the commission's attorney indicated a desire to request an extension for the public hearing, allowing for further discussion and responses to the numerous comments received. The meeting was then paused for a brief recess before reconvening to continue the proceedings.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's strong opposition to the Teakwood development, with residents and officials alike advocating for the protection of Stratford's wetlands and natural habitats. The commission plans to continue the public hearing in the following month, inviting further community engagement on this critical issue.