Two important parts of Westport — downtown and Baron’s South — are on the Planning & Zoning Commission’s agenda next week.
The virtual meeting on Monday (February 7, 7 p.m.) includes text amendments to eliminate the prohibition on retail above the 1st floor on Main Street and environs; another to remove the prohibition limiting tenant size to 10,000 square feet in the same area, and an amendment to permit certain non-team activities in the open space nearby.
Proponents say removing the ban on 2nd floor retail would attract mom-and-pop-type shops, thanks to lower rents. A change allowing larger stores would eliminate the current practice of some tenants having separate entrances and branding for what are essentially the same stores.
The Architectural Review Board and Historic District Commission would retain oversight over the looks of downtown properties.
Retail is not permitted above the first floor on Main Street — though certain properties (like the Gap) are grandfathered in.
The Baron’s South proposal addresses current regulations, which prohibit organized non-team activities like guided walks, hikes and yoga classes in the meadow outside the Senior Center. Both the Senior Center and Parks & Recreation have indicated support for the text amendment, which would still prohibit organized team sports.
A prohibition against new structures — for example, pickleball courts — would also remain.
Guided hikes are currently prohibited on Baron’s South. (Photo/Judy James)
At the meeting, the P& will also consider proposals to opt out of 2 state provisions. One would enable the town of Westport to maintain its own requirements for accessory dwelling units. The other would allow the town to retain current regulations for the number of parking units required for multi-family dwellings.
If the P&Z chooses to opt out of those less strict state requirements, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) must also agree by a super-majority vote.
Full details are available here. Monday’s meeting will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov. To submit comments, click here.