Carfora Issues Statement On Sperry Lane Zone Change Application

Written and submitted by Joseph Carfora, Democratic Mayoral Candidate

While I have spoken to a number of constituents when door knocking and during town meetings about the proposed Sperry Lane/ZONE change application, I want to also put out a FORMAL statement regarding my position so that there is no confusion about where I stand - I am against the Zone change and the development!

I have long thought that responsible development in East Haven is critical to the success of our great community. It is the responsibility of community leaders to make decisions that enhance our community, not burden it, and to encourage development decisions that stimulate our tax base, but also improve our quality of life.

The Sperry Lane developer acquired the subject property as a residential zoned area. They knew what they could legally build when they bought the property. And as currently zoned, they can build residential homes which is consistent with previously commissioned town studies for the subject area; studies that are on file with the town. There is a strong argument to be made that controlled residential development in this area can have a positive impact on our tax base, not over burden infrastructure, our public services, our traffic or our education system, and importantly enhance property values in the adjoining areas.

The current proposal on the table really presents a “Red Herring”— the “Herring is the constant talk about low income projects and excessive units in a development. Let’s not chase the “Red Herring’.

All certainly create concerns, but those issues are the “herring”—this developer wants the ZONE change from Residential to Commercial. A change like this opens up so many more opportunities for the DEVELOPER and hurts the homeowners in the area. It provides fewer protections to the neighboring and adjacent areas. Think about it, does the resident want residential in adjoining areas or the potential for substantial commercial development? And also ask what does the commercial developer want?

My opponent has indicated that he is against “Low income” housing. And to some he has apparently made that position clear, but to others he has been wholly supportive of the developer. Nevertheless, the question that really needs to be asked is where does my opponent stand on the Zone change? Make no mistake where I stand, as I said- I stand against the Zone change and the development. I intend to do everything in my power to keep that area zoned Residential.

I want to also praise my fellow Town Councilman Lou Pacelli. Lou is at the forefront of the fight on this issue and on so many other issues that impact our community. Lou is a tireless worker on behalf of East Haven taxpayers and more than willing to talk to anyone about Sperry Lane.

I will also speak with anyone about this issue. I am committed to responsible, quality and reasonable development. Trust me, I expect to be attacked both personally and professionally about many things in this election and this issue is one of them. Afterall, it is about money for some and they want to make it on the backs of the taxpayers.

In conclusion, I want to also direct you to the amazing effort being undertaken by Ms. Kat Bowery. Ms. Bowery has created a petition regarding Sperry Lane. Her petition has already garnered over 700 signatures in opposition to this matter. I encourage you to read it and sign it. The petition can be accessed at https://www.change.org/p/east-haven-planning-and-zoning-commission-support-the-branhaven-collective-oppose-the-zoning-change-for-east-haven-ct.

Let’s stand together for what is right!

Thank you.

Third District Town Councilman and Mayoral Candidate,

Joseph Carfora