Mayor Weighs In on Keating

Mayor Harkins yesterday issue the following statement on the proposed redevelopment of the Keating Ford property. The letter was read at the beginning of last evening's Zoning Commission meeting. The meeting was attended by 25 people, and all who testified did so in opposition to the proposal.

The text:

Statement on Proposed Retail Development Application At Former Keating Ford Site

STRATFORD -- Mayor John A. Harkins today issued the following statement regarding the proposed retail development at the former Keating Ford site that is pending before the Zoning Commission:

Keating Ford is a prime site for economic development in Stratford, and I am ready and willing to assist any responsible investor with a plan for this site that will enhance our town. Conceptually, I am in favor of utilizing this property for retail development as a means of expanding our grand list and combating blight. I have concerns with the application that is currently pending before the Zoning Commission, though I believe they can be resolved amicably. The plans as they are currently drafted are aesthetically deficient and not designed to attract the quality of retail activity I would like to see as part of redevelopment in the South End. The request for variances on open space set asides, as well as buffer requirements between parking facilities and private residences are also troubling. The decision to approve or deny this application rests solely with the independently elected Zoning Commission. However as both a Stratford resident and Mayor, I strongly enc
ourage the Commission to work with the developer in a constructive manner to address these issues and ensure that this project is a benefit to the Town and in keeping with the character of our community while remaining financially viable for the developer.

Keating Ford: Round 2

The Zoning Commission hearing that so many of us attended on the proposal to turn Keating Ford into (perhaps) subsidized housing or a fast-food restaurant (see previous Keating Ford posts) has been invalidated for procedural reasons. That means none of our testimony (unanimously opposed) has actually been entered into the public record.

The Zoning Commission will reconvene tomorrow, Tuesday (9/21), at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers. If you care about this issue please: 1) Plan to come; 2) plan to testify for the record; 3) call/e-mail friends and neighbors and ask THEM to testify for the record.

There is strength in numbers!