5 Things To Know In Simsbury: 24 Lark Road Apartments, 43 Hopmeadow Housing Ideas, Ice Rink Opens And More

SIMSBURY, CT — The Conservation Commission receives a wetlands application for 24 apartments under the state's affordable housing law at the end of Lark Road, the Zoning Commission takes an informal look at housing options for 43 Hopmeadow St. and the Simsbury Farms ice rink is open for the season.

Here are five things to know about life around Simsbury this week:

1. Wetlands Panel Receives 24-Unit Affordable Housing Plan On Lark Road
When: Tuesday, Nov. 17, 7 p.m.
Where: Board of Education Conference Room, Town Hall, 933 Hopmeadow St.
What to know: The Conservation Commission/Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency is set to receive Timothy Martin's application for a wetlands permit to build 24 multifamily units in two structures within the upland review area on a vacant 2.86-acre lot at the end of Lark Road, according to the agenda. The project is proposed under Section 8-30g, the state's Affordable Housing Appeals Act. The commission will decide whether the application is significant. It also receives a request for a 1,250-square-foot patio at 3 Clover Lane in Weatogue and will elect officers.
More information here.

2. Zoning Commission Weighs Housing Options For 43 Hopmeadow St.
When: Monday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m.
Where: Main Meeting Room, Town Hall, 933 Hopmeadow St.
What to know: The Zoning Commission gives an informal review to a request from Phil Doyle of LADA PC Land Planners to consider residential development options on two parcels totaling about 9.98 acres at 43 Hopmeadow St. in the R-40 zone, according to the agenda. The concept plan in the packet lists Rubi Hopmeadow LLC as the applicant. The Planning Department will also present revised draft sign regulations, and the commission will discuss adding a "Public Audience" period to its agendas under the adopted charter amendments.
More information here.

3. Simsbury Farms Ice Rink Open For Public Skating
When: Weekdays 10 a.m. to noon; Sundays 2:15 to 4:15 p.m.
Where: Simsbury Farms Ice Rink
What to know: The Simsbury Farms Ice Rink has opened for the season, according to the town manager's Nov. 9 report. Weekday public skating runs from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by pickup hockey from noon to 2 p.m. Admission is $5 for residents, and skate rentals are $5. More sessions will be added during school breaks; check simsburyrec.com.
More information here.

4. Learn About Bears At Town Hall
When: During Town Hall hours
Where: Main hallway, Town Hall, 933 Hopmeadow St.
What to know: Town Hall has a life-size bear cutout and a bear-resistant trash can on display as part of the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's BearWise campaign, according to the town manager's report. Visitors can learn about bear safety and enter a contest to win a reusable tote bag or a bear-resistant trash can.
More information here.

5. Leaf Pickup Map Posted; Collection Starts Nov. 30
When: Curbside Nov. 30 to Dec. 9; bulky waste drop-off Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Curbside by neighborhood; Town Hall, 933 Hopmeadow St.
What to know: The town's map shows when each neighborhood's single leaf collection will happen between Monday, Nov. 30, and Wednesday, Dec. 9, according to Public Works. Leaves must be in biodegradable paper bags at the curb the night before or by 6 a.m. on collection day, and not blown or raked into the road. Residents can also bring bagged leaves and grass clippings to the Bulky Waste Facility for free with proof of residency.
More information here.