The Hard Work Of Planning

To the Editor:

I am a Democratic candidate for the Planning and Zoning Commission. I have served on the commission for ten years and I would like to weigh in on the subject of planning.

While the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) does not address all issues facing the town, it is a vital underpinning for its forward movement. The 2004 POCD is a ten-year plan that each town must produce to assist the region and the state in the overall vision for Connecticut residents. The Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) has spent almost two years preparing the present report. We had considerable help from all involved departments, commissions, staff, and the public. The relevant groups meet annually to review the progress made in each area. The document is continuously reviewed and has been revised as a result of these meetings.

While town boards are often accused of lack of planning, that is far from the truth. Plans are arrived at after exhaustive work with ample time and opportunity for public input. The hard work done by both the volunteers and staff in all areas are evident in the POCD. The annual reviews by all keep the plan from becoming a “dusty development.”

In addition, the Master Plan for Fairfield Hills was arrived at after a long planning process. This involved eight to ten chances for public participation, including a Saturday where correctly sized pieces for buildings, playing fields, parking lots, trails, and green areas could be placed on a scale map of the Fairfield Hills campus.

I am not claiming that these plans are perfect, for any plan may require revision as it moves forward, but I do want people to know that plans were not developed hastily or within a vacuum. I am well aware that there is considerable controversy over the execution of certain plans, but this letter is meant to address the significant effort that goes into the planning process.

The entire town has benefitted from the hard work of boards, commissions, staff, and the public. The effort made by everyone has created a blueprint for meeting the needs of all residents.

In short, we do have a plan. The two mentioned documents are available on the Newtown Website www.newtown-ct.gov.

Sincerely,

Lilla Dean

14 Old Hawleyville Road, Newtown                   September 16, 2009