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North Canaan planning commission weighs changing multifamily definition
Summary
ZEO George Martin proposed redefining multifamily housing so one- and two-family dwellings would be allowed by right and three-or-more-unit buildings would require a special permit; Chairman Mike O’Connor expressed hesitation and Commissioner Dalton Jacquier will research the implications before the commission next considers the change.
Zoning Enforcement Officer George Martin proposed that the Planning and Zoning Commission redefine “multifamily” to treat one- and two-family dwellings as allowed uses while requiring a special permit for buildings with three or more units.
Chairman Mike O’Connor said he was hesitant about the change and stressed the commission should carefully consider precedent and community impact. Commissioner Dalton Jacquier volunteered to research the matter and return with findings to inform a future vote.
Martin framed the suggested edit as a way to draw a clearer line between smaller residential structures and larger multifamily developments; the commission discussed that the change would alter when applicants must seek a special permit and the level of review projects would receive. No formal motion or vote was taken; the commission left the item on the agenda for future consideration.
If approved, the proposal would mean that developments with three or more units in North Canaan could be subject to additional public review and special-permit standards. Commissioners asked for further information about legal definitions and potential local impacts before drafting any specific text changes.
