Commission approves 1.17‑acre lot subdivision; questions raised about family cemetery and incremental subdivisions

The Hartford Planning Commission approved application 26-02, which subdivides lot 07-0049-00003 to create a proposed 1.17-acre parcel on West Road, after discussion of access, wastewater easements and an on‑site family cemetery.

The applicants, Lawrence and Lyn Botwin, were represented at the hearing; the presenter described a building envelope for the new lot, an adjacent wastewater system, and reciprocal easements to formalize shared wastewater setbacks. Commissioners confirmed the required 100-foot well/leach-field separation was shown on the plan.

Commission members asked about the cemetery mapped in the Hartford land records (cited as volume 411, pages 380–382) and whether public access exists. The panel noted references to "Rogers Road" in deed materials but said that name appears to be a private way in family records rather than an official public road, and that public access to the cemetery is likely limited to family members.

Members also raised a process question: repeated one-lot subdivisions over several years can create the effect of a larger subdivision without triggering a consolidated multi-lot review. The planner noted the subdivision ordinance includes time-based triggers (discussed as a three- to five-year window) for two-step review but that the present application meets the one-lot-subdivision criteria being considered today.

Commissioners also discussed utilities and access: a long existing gravel family road provides access across the property, and the presenter estimated an access drive to the new lot of roughly 800 feet; electrical service arrangements will be worked out with the utility and landowner. The commission closed the public hearing, approved findings and carried the motion to approve the application.

The decision will be recorded and staff will advise the applicant on next steps.