Newington approves zoning changes for middle housing, parking; $7.8M fire station bond proposed
The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved amendments to Newington’s zoning regulations at its June 24 meeting, updating rules for middle housing and parking requirements. The action came as the commission also continued a public hearing on related middle housing changes without taking a vote that same evening.
Zoning changes approved for middle housing
The commission approved petition TPZ-26-10, which amends zoning regulations to comply with Special Session Public Act 25-1 on middle housing. The changes update multiple sections, including 2.1, 3.10, and 6.0, and revise parking requirements. The agenda summary stated the amendments were approved, though official minutes have not yet been published. A separate public hearing on middle housing zoning amendments was continued and remains open; no vote was taken on that matter.
Town Council proposes $7.8M fire station bond
The Town Council introduced a resolution on June 23 to borrow $7.8 million for the construction of a new Fire Station #4 at 84 Fifth Street. The measure, which requires a November 2026 referendum, will be the subject of a public hearing on July 14. The council also announced the launch of the Newington Crime and Safety Portal, scheduled proclamations for the retirement of Lisa Rydecki and NCTV's 40th anniversary, and considered an EMS contract with AMR.
Council rules changes recommended
The Town Council Rules of Procedure Subcommittee voted unanimously on June 29 to recommend a redlined version of the council’s Rules of Procedure to the full Town Council. Proposed changes include removing the consent agenda, updating public participation procedures regarding written correspondence, and adding a new section for items requiring council consideration such as grants and donations.
Library committee meets, notes resignation
The Library Renovations/Additions Project Building Committee approved the minutes of its May 21 meeting unanimously on June 25. Members discussed fundraising strategies, a library survey, and outreach flyers for an upcoming Town Council presentation. The committee also noted the resignation of member Erik Hinkley.
ZBA hears three variance requests
The Zoning Board of Appeals conducted public hearings on July 2 for three residential setback variances:
- 98 Thornton Drive: Variance of 3.2 feet for a west side yard setback and 0.2 feet for a front yard setback to allow a second-story addition and bay window.
- 91 Edmund Street: Variance of 20.6 feet for a front yard setback along Edmund Street for construction of an attached garage.
- 19 Kenlock Street: Variance of 3.7 feet for a west side yard setback to build an 11-foot by 11-foot sunroom on an existing deck.
Decisions on the variance requests are expected once minutes are published.
Coming up
The Town Plan and Zoning Commission meets again on July 8 to consider:
- A special permit for an indoor kids' gym facility at 1581 Southeast Road.
- A special permit for the sale of alcoholic beverages at 2551 Berlin Turnpike (Sloppy Waffle LLC).
- A referral for the demolition of the existing Firehouse #4 and construction of a new two-story firehouse at 84 Fifth Street.
- A pre-application discussion for a truck driving school in the Industrial zone.
- Scheduling future hearings for a zone change at 180 Carr Avenue and a performing arts theater at 50 Rockwell Road.
Generated from official meeting agendas and minutes — every underlying document is linked from the city page. Read the primary source before you rely on a detail.