New Adult Day Care Center Approved In Canton

CANTON, CT — The Canton Planning and Zoning Commission has unanimously approved a special permit to establish an adult day care center inside an existing church at 3 Case St., with conditions limiting capacity, staffing, and hours.

The commission voted 7-0 on March 18 to approve the application submitted by Cynthia Donaldson on behalf of the trustees of the North Canton Community United Methodist Church.

The approval allows a “social model” adult day care program serving up to 21 clients at a time, with a required staff-to-client ratio of 1 to 7.

Hours of operation were set for 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Canton PZC member Michael Vogel recused himself from the application because he owns adjacent property.

Vice Chair Elizabeth Vinick chaired that portion of the meeting and seated alternate commissioner Melissa Renkert.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Sandra Trionfini said she lives on Case Street but did not have a conflict and participated in the hearing.

The application was presented by Gail Chaplin, a representative of the applicant.

Public comment was limited.

Resident Katie Kenney spoke in support, calling it “a wonderful use of the space.” No opposition was voiced.

The commission closed the public hearing the same evening before moving to approve the application.

In its decision, the commission cited compliance with local zoning regulations governing adult day-care services and special permits.

Approval is conditioned on obtaining necessary permits from the Farmington Valley Health District and submitting additional site plan details related to outdoor use.

The program is limited to participants who can feed themselves, are continent, and do not require medication during attendance, consistent with the “social model” described in the application.

The approval becomes effective on April 10, after filing with the town clerk.

No commissioners spoke in opposition during deliberations.

For the minutes of the March 18 Canton Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, click on this link.

To watch the March 18, Canton Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting, click on this link.