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Here’s why I couldn’t support it:
- Nearly 900 new units for Bethel?
Under the bill’s "Fair Share" mandate, Bethel could be required to permit nearly 900 additional affordable housing units without considering infrastructure capacity, school impacts, or the reality on the ground.
- No public hearings on major conversions
The bill allows developers to convert commercial buildings into housing “as of right” meaning no public hearing, no input from local boards, and no chance for residents to weigh in. That’s a major change with real consequences for neighborhoods.
- Parking eliminated even in tight areas
It bans towns from requiring minimum parking for residential developments under 24 units, regardless of existing congestion or emergency access concerns.
- State control over zoning decisions
The Office of Policy and Management (OPM) would review whether local zoning meets state-determined housing targets with state funding on the line if towns can’t comply.
The bill expands legal exposure under the Affordable Housing Appeals Act, allowing developers to seek attorney’s fees if a town is found to have acted in “bad faith.”
Towns are expected to enact major zoning changes by October 1, 2025, a completely unrealistic deadline with no funding or staffing support.
Bethel and Danbury are already stepping up. But HB 5002 ignores that progress and punishes communities that don’t have big-city infrastructure.
My vote reflects my commitment to smart housing policy and to making sure local voices are heard. We can do better. And I’ll keep fighting for real solutions that work with our communities, not around them.
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