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Avon planning director outlines implications of new housing law; town asked to consider joining regional Fair Rent Commission
Summary
Planning Director Hiram Peck told the Council HB 8002 (An Act Concerning Housing Growth) requires municipal updates and a housing growth plan by Jan. 1, 2028; Planning & Zoning Chair Lisa Levin urged a triage approach learned at a YIMBY conference to align developers, advocates and officials.
Hiram Peck, Director of Planning & Community Development, briefed the Avon Town Council on changes stemming from House Bill 8002 (An Act Concerning Housing Growth), signed by the governor on Nov. 26, 2025, and urged the town to consider joining a regional Fair Rent Commission and to begin work on a municipal Housing Growth Plan.
Peck said Avonwill be better positioned if it develops its own Housing Growth Plan rather than relying solely on CRCOGand highlighted an external deadline of Jan. 1, 2028 for plan completion. "The protest petition will give an abutter standing if it becomes a legal matter," Peck said as he described procedural features of the statute that expand participation in local reviews. He also noted zoning tweaks will be required even though Avonhas recently updated regulations.
Lisa Levin, Chair of the Planning & Zoning Commission, summarized takeaways from a national YIMBY conference she attended: a multi-pronged approach is needed that combines builders, advocates and elected officials. "The message was clear there is not enough housing for people who need and want it," Levin said, urging a triage strategy and stronger partnerships with developers and advocates. Christine Graesser, who attended the conference with Levin, emphasized the value of polling and organized advocacy.
Councilors discussed local examples: Peck referenced a Beacon Communities project, The Homes at Avon Park, describing a proposed total of 176 units (100 new units and 76 rehabilitated units) and noting under Section 8-30g-like provisions a minimum of 30% of units must be affordable in certain configurations (the meeting noted 30% of 176 as 53 units). Peck estimated modern construction costs per dwelling unit in the range of $420,000 to $500,000.
Why this matters: Peck said Avon currently has about 3% age-restricted affordable housing against a 10% statutory target, indicating the town will need policy and zoning adjustments to meet state goals. The Council will consider the Affordable Housing Task Force charge and possible next steps as it revises the Plan of Conservation and Development next year.
Next steps: Peck recommended the Town take a proactive approach on the Housing Growth Plan and consider participating in a regional Fair Rent Commission; the Council agreed to discuss Affordable Housing Task Force continuation and next steps in future meetings.
Sources: Remarks by Hiram Peck and Lisa Levin at Avon Town Council meeting, Dec. 4, 2025.
