Planning staff told the Simsbury Planning Commission on June 19 that the town must refresh its affordable housing plan, first adopted in January 2021, because state statute requires municipalities to update the plan every five years.

"We are here. It is 5, it is we are at 5 years," a planning staff member said, noting the statutory five-year cycle and the need to update demographic and area median income data, as well as inclusionary and zoning changes adopted since 2021.

Commissioners discussed the town’s original five-year goal — a target of roughly 90 affordable housing units over five years — and the limited progress to date. One commissioner said the town had delivered roughly four occupied affordable units since 2021; staff noted there are additional commitments from current projects (Dorset Crossing committed to a 10% affordable component and another project referenced at 30%). Commissioners stressed the plan update should incorporate actions already taken since 2021, reflect zoning changes and recommendations from the town’s housing advisory work, and analyze whether realistic development opportunities exist to meet any stated goal.

Staff outlined the process: update demographic data and income thresholds, incorporate the 2024 POCD recommendations where appropriate, analyze potential development sites and capacity, and schedule the required public hearing with notice. Staff said they would start data turnover in coming weeks, aim to present draft priorities and analysis in the fall, and expect to hold required public hearings before finalizing the updated plan — with a practical timeline toward early winter rather than a guaranteed January 1 deadline.

Commissioners discussed options for outreach, including targeted workshops or integrating the update into the regular September meeting schedule. The commission did not take formal action at the meeting beyond directing staff to begin the update process and to return with data and a schedule for public hearings.