Denied 7-Home Suffield Plan Returns For New Hearing

SUFFIELD, CT — A developer is making another attempt to build seven single-family homes along South Grand Street after an earlier version of the project was rejected this spring.

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously Aug. 18 to accept a new application from Peak Mountain Development LLC and schedule a public hearing for Sept. 22, according to meeting minutes.

The proposal covers two parcels on the west side of South Grand Street, identified in town records as Assessor’s Map 18, Block 21, Lots 15 and 15A. Accepting the application allows the review process to begin and does not amount to approval of the development.

Peak Mountain Development, led by Kirk McNaughton, brought a similar seven-home plan before the commission earlier this year. That proposal covered about 39 acres, including more than 13 acres of wetlands.

The earlier review centered largely on drainage, groundwater, septic systems and the possible effect on nearby wetlands and a potential vernal pool. The developer also offered to donate a 12-acre wetland parcel to the Suffield Land Conservancy.

McNaughton submitted revised plans during a May 12 meeting, including a new septic layout that moved the system outside a 150-foot setback area. Commissioners said they had not been given enough time to review the changes and raised additional questions about groundwater, trees, drainage and the vernal pool.

A motion to approve that application failed 0-5. Chairman Art Christian said the denial was without prejudice, meaning the developer could return with a new plan.

The latest application has been assigned Permit No. 1748. The Aug. 18 minutes do not explain what has changed from the version rejected in May.

The public hearing is scheduled for Sept. 22 before the Conservation Commission.

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