Proposed zone change sparks debate

Thursday, February 9, 2012

MILFORD – Zoning amendments don’t usually come up at the town Deliberative Session, but last Saturday there was a long discussion about a proposed zoning change.

Sparking the discussion were two articles: one that would set up a fund for infrastructure improvements to the town-owned Brox property, and another one that would put proceeds from the sale of the old police station into the fund.

The idea is to help pay for the building of roads and sewer and water connections on the 121 acres, much of which was a gravel excavation.

The town Budget Advisory Committee supports the articles but is urging voters to review the zoning change that would permit housing on the property.

At the Deliberative Session members of the committee and some people in the audience seemed concerned about the possibility of more residential development in town.

Several town officials defended the plan, saying the kind of housing that could be built there would not be a drain on town services and the likelihood of housing is not high.

“The property is much more suitable for commercial and industrial,” said Community Development Director Bill Parker.

Eecotech Capital Partners, the company that is expected to exercise its option to buy the property, “only deals with high-end developments,” which pay for themselves, Town Administrator Guy Scaife said.

And Selectman Kathy Bauer said the Brox property and the old police station property have not provided tax revenue in a long time, and it’s important to “get that land onto the tax rolls.” The town’s focus for Brox is on industrial and commercial development, she said.

The zoning amendment in question would set up a Commerce and Community Overlay District to guide development of Brox, which totals about 270 acres and was purchased by the town in 2000. The half that is not for sale will be kept by the town for municipal uses, such as recreation fields, cemeteries, and emergency facilities.

The Budget Committee had originally voted to support the two Brox articles 7-1, with one abstaining. After the Deliberative Session, the vote was 6-2, with one abstaining.

Selectmen unanimously support the articles, which will be on the ballot March 13.