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Commission debates merging planning and development-review duties into single DRB
Summary
Commission members discussed the pros and cons of combining the Planning Commission and Development Review Board (DRB), citing other towns' experience that centralizing review reduced delays but also raises quasi-judicial and notice concerns.
Commission members discussed whether Stamford should merge planning and development-review responsibilities into a single Development Review Board.
A committee member described others' experience: "They merged as one... and it worked out best for the people," and added that in one example the change "reduced the amount of time that people have to wait... by about two months or something like that." Members cautioned that a single board takes on quasi-judicial functions, requires careful procedure (such as abutter notices), and may change how bylaws and plan reviews are handled.
Several attendees urged caution and recommended having a professional presenter explain options and procedural implications before the commission pursues structural changes. Multiple speakers emphasized that any final change would still require select board acceptance and detailed bylaw amendments.
