The possibility of over 500 units of 8-30g housing — 30% of it affordable, under state guidelines — in 3 massive buildings on the Hamlet footprint in Saugatuck was not the only discussion at last night’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting.
The virtual event — which began amicably, with the unanimous approval of the Long Lots Elementary School site plan — turned hot, as the public weighed in for the final time on the Hamlet proposal itself.
It was a major step on the long road for the controversial residential/retail/ event space/marina complex. Before adjourning at 1:18 a.m., commissioners voted 6-1 to close public comment. Michael Calise offered the lone dissent.
The P&Z now has 65 days to render a decision.
Ninety minutes earlier — just before midnight — commissioner Neil Cohn made a powerful statement about the inappropriate level of vitriol, and the need to change the debate tone. The public had begun speaking at 10:10 p.m.
Still, the comments continued.
Architectural designs for the 11 buildings that would make up The Hamlet.
Frustration was expressed by proponents as well as opponents of the project.
Many comments focused on the traffic study conducted by consultants for the developer, ROAN Ventures. There were questions about the dates studied (including Rosh Hashana weekend); the lack of parking for employees. how stacked parking would work, and sightlines.
One commenter remarked on the “spillover” effect, and whether drivers avoiding the area would cause more traffic in other parts of town.
There were questions too about the lack of affordable housing. (Fourteen “below-market” rates would be built offsite). At the same time, investors are upset with the length of time the process has taken.
The Hamlet was first introduced 4 years ago. Town bodies including the Conservation Commission and Flood & Erosion Control Board have since given approval. It complies, ROAN and Planning & Zoning director Michelle Perrillie say, with the conditions of a text amendment, approved in 2022 by the P&Z.
One view of the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck.
Still, the questions — and strong statements — continued.
Residents wondered whether parking spots would be taken from the train station.
Proponents, meanwhile, attacked “misinformation” in statements by the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck, an opposition group.
The Hamlet’s designers don’t live in Saugatuck, one resident said. (ROAN’s offices are on Riverside Avenue, a few yards from the Black Duck.) The people of the town know what is best for the area, another added.
Finally, the hearing was adjourned.
The Planning & Zoning Commission now has just over 2 months to reach a verdict.
But heated public comments about the Hamlet — and a possible 8-30g affordable housing project, in its place — will likely continue, on social media and blogs, and in conversations all around town.
(Catherine Campagnino contributed reporting to this story.)