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Whispering Hills owner proposes adding up to 32 apartments; commission discusses 8‑30g and infrastructure
Summary
Jessica Chapman proposed adding up to 32 garden‑style apartments to her existing Whispering Hills complex to increase one‑bedroom and senior‑friendly rentals; the commission urged consideration of deed‑restricted units under 8‑30g and early coordination on fire suppression, wells and septic.
Jessica Chapman, owner of Whispering Hills, told the commission she owns 32 apartments on Kingsley Drive and proposed adding up to 32 additional garden‑style rental units — including ranch‑style units suitable for seniors — to meet strong local rental demand and long waiting lists at her property.
Chapman said the existing complex is well maintained and that turnover is low; she noted a waiting list of six months or longer and said the new units would help serve local needs. Commissioners and staff discussed regulatory routes, including use of Connecticut General Statute 8‑30g or other programs to obtain deed‑restricted affordable units. Town planner John Guskowski and commissioners outlined possible funding sources (tax‑credit programs through CHFA and forthcoming state grant programs) but noted that some state funds have not yet been allocated and will be awarded competitively.
Technical site considerations were highlighted: the project would need engineering for shared wells and septic systems, fire suppression requirements (sprinklers and hydrant access) and any necessary variances or text amendments to zoning. Chapman said she aims to preserve the site's character, limit clearing, and minimize infrastructure expansion by sharing wells and septic where feasible.
Commissioners indicated support for an application that addresses safety and infrastructure, and advised Chapman to engage early with the fire marshal, engineering staff and the planning office. No formal action was taken; the presentation was an informal concept review.
