Benjamin P. Lathrop

Mayor
Norwich City Hall
100 Broadway, 3rd Floor
Norwich, CT 06360

 

Dear Mr. Lathrop,

 

It has been reported that Carpionato-LaBossiere Properties seeks to change the zoning from residential (R-20) to neighborhood commercial (NC) along portions of the residential neighborhoods of upper Washington Street.  This proposal has been brought by the same developer who had proposed the commercial overlay zone that was withdrawn from consideration in July. 

 

This proposal is spot zoning of the worst kind.  It is abundantly clear that the purpose of the proposed zoning change is for a specific development project.  The New London Day has reported that the developer has been pursuing these amendments to the zoning ordinances for the purpose of building a Walgreen’s, Starbuck’s, and a Webster Bank.  Recently, residents of our neighborhood have confirmed this is the case (as we have seen copies of the plans).  It is now well known that the developer has specific plans that have already been developed for this specific property.  These plans have been circulating since December of last year (prior to the introduction of the overlay zone proposal).   

 

It should not be the policy of the City Council to reward this kind of abuse of the City charter to the detriment of its own taxpaying families (whom have worked very hard for many years to make their neighborhood a desirable place to call home). 

 

I would also remind you that during the public hearing for the commercial overlay zone, the developer and their attorneys repeatedly stated that there was not a specific project planned.  It is now abundantly clear that this was unabashed deception.  Rewarding this type of deceitfulness does nothing to promote the reputation or welfare of Norwich, its government, or its citizens.

 

Furthermore, this commercial development would literally be built on top of the birthplace of Benedict Arnold, one of the true treasures this City has to offer.  Allowing a commercial establishment to be constructed on this historic parcel would be a monumental mistake. 

 

I am asking that you refrain from sponsoring any proposed changes to the zoning map in this residential zone.  The local residents clearly do not want it, as it is incompatible with our neighborhood.  By refusing to sponsor any zoning changes within residential zones, you will send the message that our City government will not be held hostage by developers who irresponsibly purchase options on properties with the assumption that they will be handed whatever it is they need to profiteer on the backs of our citizenry.    

 

I would also ask that the City take a more pro-active stance regarding future commercial development.  The City should encourage commercial development that further utilizes areas of the city that are already commercially zoned, do not negatively impact the fine residents of our City, and are in conformance with the 2002 Plan of Conservation and Development. 

 

Sincerely,

Garry Ferrari                                                    Marterese Ferrari

6 Julian Terrace                                                6 Julian Terrace

889-2193