Zoning administrator: no change-of-use required for former church; residents seek clarity

The Stamford Select Board heard a lengthy public discussion about renovations and new activities at a former church property and whether those changes constitute a "change of use" under local zoning bylaws. Deb, the town’s zoning administrator, reported she had reviewed state guidance and local precedent and decided a formal change-of-use permit was not required under current bylaws.

"The decision I made was that there was no change of use required," Deb told the board during the hearing. Residents and some board members questioned that conclusion and emphasized the town’s lack of explicit "change of use" language in its bylaws; several said the planning commission should add clearer definitions and permit triggers. Board members raised concerns about tax-exempt status, signage, whether paid instructors or food-service activities would trigger conditional-use review, and whether state permits (for food handling or septic) would be necessary.

Supporters of the property’s new operator described community uses and volunteer-led classes and said the owner had invested in improvements, including a planned septic system. Opponents asked the town to ensure all appropriate permits and health/sanitation approvals were in place. The board directed staff to confirm which activities require state permits and to ask the planning commission to consider drafting clearer bylaw language to address similar situations going forward.