To The Editor:

George Trudell has applied for a Special Exception from the Borough’s Zoning Regulations to allow construction of 117 cluster homes, separated from each other by only twenty feet, at the top of Castle Hill. If his request is granted, it is clear how Mr Trudell would benefit; he would gain the opportunity to earn millions in additional profit by more than doubling the density of construction allowed by adherence to the regulations.

At the October 16 public meeting of the Borough Zoning Commission, I asked Mr Trudell, “what benefit would Newtown get in return?” I thought he might answer “open space” since the development plan sets aside 80 acres adjacent to Taunton Pond as permanent open space.

However, the development plan specifies that there would be no public access to that undisturbed land. I thought he might cite increased tax revenue, but no such financial analysis has been presented. Mr Trudell’s actual answer to my question was concise: the town would benefit from having a selection of smaller luxury homes for people looking to downsize, yet stay in Newtown.

That option might benefit a handful of current Newtown residents, but at what cost? The development would significantly increase congestion on Main Street, which already faces problems from too much traffic.

The development would conspicuously concentrate population at the top of one of the most iconic hills in town. These drawbacks specifically violate numerous stipulations contained in the Borough Zoning Regulations regarding population density, traffic, and vistas. The Borough Zoning Commission should reject Mr Trudell’s application.

Eric Thompson

Newtown