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Cromwell P&Z accepts alcohol-related zoning changes, schedules public hearings in May
Summary
The Cromwell Planning & Zoning Commission voted to accept proposed zoning-text amendments that remove the term “tavern” and local spacing requirements between cafés, and scheduled public hearings for May on the amendments and three related applications, including a special-permit application for 72 West Street.
The Town of Cromwell Planning & Zoning Commission voted April 7 to accept proposed zoning-text amendments related to alcoholic beverages and scheduled public hearings on the changes and several land-use applications.
Andrew Armstrong, director of planning and development, told commissioners that “liquor licenses for taverns were repealed by the State in 2020, and the current café license is closest to a tavern,” and noted the town’s 1,500-foot separation requirement for cafés differs from state rules, which have no such spacing requirement. Armstrong recommended deleting the word “tavern” from the regulations and removing the town’s distance requirement, and he suggested adding a clear definition of “café” to the zoning code.
Commissioners discussed inspection roles for a liquor permit, including health-department involvement. After discussion, Vice Chairman Michael Cannata moved to accept the text amendments as presented; Andrew Holt seconded the motion. "All were in favor; the motion passed," the clerk recorded.
The commission also accepted and scheduled three applications for public hearings. The Town’s Application #26-10 (Application to Amend the Zoning Regulations) was accepted and set for a public hearing on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Application #26-11 (Application to Amend the Zoning Map at 110 Willowbrook Road; owner Nelsida Espinal) was likewise scheduled for May 19, 2026. The commission accepted Application #26-12, a Special Permit application to sell alcoholic beverages at 72 West Street (applicant Tribohavon Patel; owner Sheikh Ali), and set that public hearing for May 5, 2026. Each scheduling motion was made by Michael Cannata, seconded by Andrew Holt, and recorded as approved by those present.
What happens next: the text amendments must be referred to RiverCOG for a 30-day review before the town can hold its public hearing; Mr. Armstrong said that requirement means the Zoning Regulations amendment application cannot be scheduled before mid-May. The town will present the proposed regulatory language and any definitions (including the proposed definition of “café”) at the public hearings so members of the public and town departments can comment.
The commission approved the March 17, 2026 minutes later in the meeting and adjourned at 9:01 P.M.
