Farmington Expands Local Historic District

FARMINGTON, CT — The town's list of historic properties has grown by one, with the Farmington Town Council's recent vote to add a local house to the list.

The council Jan. 2 unanimously approved adding the home at 9 Waterville Road— also known as "Brookside" — to the Farmington Historic District.

It was built in 1898 by Noah Wallace, a founding member of the Farmington Country Club and longtime home-builder, according to town officials.

According to documents given to council members before the Jan. 2 public hearing and vote, Wallace built many homes already in the district in the "Colonial Revival Style," including 9 Waterville Road.

The home is currently owned by Jared and Katherine Ritter and it is located on the west side of Waterville Road, according to the town's report on the property.

The council's approval brings the full list of historic properties to 27 in that historic district.

Prior to the vote, the Farmington council hosted a public hearing on the addition, with no one from the public speaking either for or against the move.

Being included in a historic district means additional approvals are needed by current and future property owners there, with local historic commission approval necessary for any modifications to the site and property beyond simple land-use boards.

Farmington Assistant Town Planner Garrett Daigle updated the council on the situation earlier this month.

"Really, the town council is amending the ordinance to approve the property," Daigle said.

Town officials said the designation has the support of the current owners of "Brookside."

"The property owners agree with this recommendation," Farmington Town Manager Kathleen Blonski said.

The council's vote for the historic property addition was quick and without discussion.

For the minutes of the Jan. 2 Farmington Town Council meeting and documents pertaining to the item, click on this link.