Avon planning commission delays decision on Dutch Brothers and Lowe's proposals

In the dimly lit chambers of the Avon Town Hall, members of the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) gathered on June 17, 2025, to address pressing matters that could shape the future of local development. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as discussions unfolded around two significant petitions, one for a special exception and another for a variance, both tied to the ongoing development plans in the town.

Central to the meeting was the issue of road access, a critical factor that has become a sticking point for the proposed Dutch Brothers coffee shop. Board members expressed frustration over the lack of resolution regarding this road issue, which has lingered for over 25 years. One member noted, “It seems like either they just don’t care or well, we haven’t had to deal with it in 25 years, so we’re not gonna deal with it now.” This sentiment echoed the concerns of many, highlighting a perceived complacency in addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.

The discussion took a more urgent tone as it became clear that the town expects the road issue to be resolved, regardless of whether Dutch Brothers receives approval for its location. “It should be clear now that it’s an issue that needs to be resolved one way or the other,” a board member asserted, emphasizing the necessity for action. The BZA's role, however, was clarified; they could only decide on the continuance of the matter, while enforcement of development plans fell under the purview of the Planning Commission.

As the meeting progressed, the board members acknowledged the complexities of the situation, particularly the involvement of third parties that could hinder progress. “We’ve got a third party out there holding stuff up, and that’s not a good precedent to set,” one member remarked, reflecting the collective frustration over delays that could impact local business growth.

Despite the challenges, there was a consensus on allowing one more continuance to give the involved parties—particularly Lowe’s, the developer—time to address the road access issue. “I don’t object to one more continuance,” a member stated, recognizing the need for patience in navigating the bureaucratic landscape. The board expressed confidence that staff would be diligent in communicating the urgency of the situation to both the petitioners and Lowe’s, ensuring that necessary actions would be taken.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board members left with a sense of cautious optimism. The path forward remains uncertain, but the commitment to resolving these issues reflects a broader dedication to fostering responsible development in Avon. The next steps will be crucial, as the community watches closely to see how these discussions translate into tangible outcomes for local businesses and residents alike.