Defending Our Neighborhoods

This speech was given to the City Planning Commission on January 16, 2007

I am here tonight to speak in support of the proposed moratorium on high-density developments within the city. I feel that the character of our city is currently at risk. While the city moves forward with the Plan of Conservation and Development, there seems to be a rush of proposals bent on getting as many high-density buildings on every small piece of land before it gets re-zoned. A few months ago I made a similar plea before this commission regarding the proposed addition of over 170 condos on Route 69. In that instance, I felt that the proposed construction would severely damage the character of the East Mountain neighborhood that I have called home for almost 25 years. The arguments that I brought forward in that specific case are just as relevant here.
Waterbury is a town of neighborhoods and communities. Even during Waterbury’s growing days, at most the city allowed three-family houses, which were more often then not occupied by members of the same family. There were never these large condominium complexes until the condo-boom of the 1980’s. Now it seems that people want to put these impersonal, stark developments all over the place. These developments are often devoid of character and personality. They do not foster the sense of community and neighborhood pride that can be found when you drive down Peach Orchard Rd., or Gaylord Dr.
Furthermore, there seems to be no need for all of these new developments. In the city today, according to realtor.com, there are 177 condos or townhouses available for sale within the city limits. These condos range in price from $40,000 to $300,000, and can be found in all parts of the city. With all of these empty, or at least emptying, condos, does the city really need to add up to 1000 more, depending on which rumors you believe?
In conclusion, I feel that this proposed moratorium is in the best interests of the city. Waterbury cannot afford any more scattered high-density complexes. There is a place in the Plan of Conservation and Development for this type of construction, but it is not to be squeezed onto scattered, small, lots. These will only harm the city of Waterbury’s character by straining the neighborhoods that have developed over the years. Furthermore, since there seems to be no rush on the condominiums that are already in existence, I just don’t see the point of adding more. Therefore ladies and gentlemen I am asking you to support this moratorium, and do so quickly, before any one else tries to squeeze another inappropriate complex into town. If they are that determined to bring condos to Waterbury, let them do so in a manner that supports the cities vision for the future.