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Avon PZC discusses possible AHOZ rezoning for 55 West Avon Road to allow subdivision
Summary
Owners Charles and Peg Mayer asked the PZC about dividing their 55 West Avon Road property; staff said the Attainable Housing Overlay Zone (AHOZ) could allow up to four parcels. Commissioners supported exploring AHOZ rezoning while urging preservation of the site's historic character.
Charles and Peg Mayer spoke informally to the Planning and Zoning Commission on March 24 to explore options for their R40 property at 55 West Avon Road, including whether subdividing the parcel could improve marketability.
Hiram Peck, Director of Planning and Community Development, told the Mayers the site is served by public sewer and contains a small wetland; under the Attainable Housing Overlay Zone the property could potentially be divided into up to four parcels for smaller homes. Peck said a zone change via AHOZ would be an appropriate next step and noted that pursuing rezoning prior to sale could help avoid a developer applying under Connecticut's 8‑30g process, which limits local control.
Why it matters: Commission members said the location (near transit and shopping) makes the site suitable for attainable housing while urging respect for the area's historic character. Commissioner Christine Graesser and Commissioner Peter Mahoney cited the site's proximity to bus lines and services as positives for higher density; Commissioner Joseph Gentile warned against repeating the character of a prior Bailey Road AHOZ and emphasized that any development should remain "stately and quaint."
Outcome and next steps: Staff advised the Mayers that they may apply for an AHOZ zone change or sell the property to a developer. Commissioners expressed broad interest in exploring the AHOZ option while asking that any future proposal preserve the site's character and key structures where feasible.
