Deciding New Hartford's Future

A decision to be made by New Hartford’s Planning and Zoning (P&Z) Commission to rezone portions of Routes 202 & 44 and to permit commercial development will affect the look of our beautiful town for generations to come. On Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30 p.m. the public can offer testimony on this important question in a hearing at the New Hartford Town Hall. It is imperative that residents speak up at this hearing, since the question will not be taken to a town meeting or a vote; the P&Z Commission has exclusive purview to decide the issue.

The motivation for such zoning changes is legitimate. Economic development must occur in New Hartford. Because of expanding residential development, we need to increase our tax base. Residential development costs the town money. The town spends $1.58 in services (schools, police protection, roads, sewers, etc.) for every tax dollar received from a residence.

Economic development can be promoted without disfiguring the town. We must not make New Hartford as unsightly as the Route 44 corridor in Canton. We must not sell out to developers who locate here solely to make money and who have no interest in the "look" of our town. To do that would be to sell our soul.

Many residents have warm feelings about New Hartford and the scenic and rural views we enjoy. But these views cannot be taken for granted. Proposed zoning changes could permanently wreck the look of the town with big-box stores (up to 150,000 square feet) and other commercial development (like bowling alleys). Big-box stores, if we can’t live without them, must be confined to industrial parks. They must not be strewn along our roads to destroy precious scenic views and vistas. Customers who patronize these stores will readily find them in industrial parks!

I am not opposed to all types of businesses that would be permitted by proposed zoning changes. The town should have more bed and breakfasts. They preserve the town’s character because they are situated in our lovely homes.

Elected officials must begin to think "outside the box." The town should attract small businesses befitting the needs of a quaint town, such as a coffee shop or bakery owned by local residents. Why must economic development occur along our roads? Why can’t we have a well-landscaped and inviting "book & antique park" with a recreation area, picnic tables and a community garden? Why couldn’t we get federal and state grants and/or funds from private philanthropy to assist with construction of a series of quaint shops? Why couldn’t the Economic Development Commission recruit antique stores and independent booksellers to locate there? Antique shops in Collinsville make it a tourist destination and yet preserve quaint aspects of the village.

Residents interested in New Hartford and its future look should make their wishes heard at the P&Z hearing. They may send written testimony prior to the hearing to David Moon, Chairman of the P&Z Commission, 120 Cedar Lane, New Hartford, CT 06057. All other members of the P&Z Commission should be sent letters or approached. Testimony can also be hand-delivered to the P&Z office in the Town Hall.