Economic Development Commission May 2022 Report

TOWNWIDE

Affordable Housing

Pursuant to CGS 8-30j every town in Connecticut is required to have an affordable housing plan. I have written the draft plan and retained a consulting firm to evaluate various parcels in town which could support affordable housing developments. The site analysis is in progress.

There is absolutely a need for affordable housing in this town to support the residents of this town. Over 27% of the households are paying well over 30% of their gross income on housing costs. This level of stress on a household results in living pay check to paycheck, no savings, difficult choices for medical and day care, and healthy food. It often results in substance abuse and domestic violence. One large bill can result in financial ruin.

In Haddam the aging population on fixed incomes is particular concern. In 10 years over half of the population will be over 65. People want to age in place but if they can no longer afford taxes, insurance and other costs associated with their single-family home, they must downsize and there are very few, if any, affordable choices in this town.

Please review the attached draft report.

HIGGANUM

On Scovil Hoe Buildings

All local approvals are in place to effectuate the environmental clean-up and transfers from CTDOT to Town and then to developer. Developer is anxious to seek PZC approval to begin marketing.

We are waiting on CTDECD to close the financial assistance agreement and CTDOT to close on the property. The state transfer process can be painfully slow. CTDOT has completed their work and sent the deed to the Office of Policy and Management for statutory approvals then the State Properties Review Board and then the Attorney General’s office.

On Sewers

Nathan Jacobson Associates working on creating a sewer plan and design a community septic system to service the center. The Capital budget contains funding for the first phase of construction once design is complete. Right now we are dealing with technical issues between CTDPH and CTDOT; conflicting requirements.

On Higganum Cove

Higganum Cove Advisory committee has been meeting and working on development of a master plan for the Cove. We selected the landscape architecture firm of Kent Frost. We are moving through the design process. We recieved $100,000 in capital budget for park development. We will proceed with small maintenance enhancement projects throughout the summer.

Rossi Site

All test holes are complete to characterize the industrial fill and enter into discussions with DEEP regarding capping. There is no time line on completing the work but CTDEEP does expect to see progress and responsible management of the site. The goal is to enter a CTDEEP liability protection program. By entering this program, the Town will have no off-site liability if it purchases the property. The developer remains interested in the front portion of the site.

Brewery next to Dunkin

Work proceeding nicely. Fully framed and sheet-rocked, and the bar is in place along with various equipment. No longer Steady Habits. New operator has successful brewery in Hartford and is negotiating the lease with the owner.

Former Haddam Elementary School

The cost of heating oil has skyrocketed over the last fiscal year and accordingly so to has the cost to maintain this building. I believe the town needs to decide the future direction of the school.

I am hoping to wrap up a lease of the gym for 4 days a week for $2,000 a month. I have another tour of the building with another private school that works with boards of education in this area addressing special ed.

The towns community center and senior center are woefully inadequate and the aging population clearly justifies the need a new facility. The old section of the school including the multi-purpose room is approximately 15,000 sq.ft. This is more than sufficient for a senior/community center for a town of Haddam’s size. Problem is we have another 20,000 square feet in the new section.

Ideally we can find a school interested in the new section but if not there are 94 applicants on the waiting list for the 22 units High Meadow Senior Housing. Is subsidized senior housing a solution for the new section of HES?

TYLERVILLE

Sidewalks on Bridge Road – Construction underway. I have not received any complaints to date.

Multi-family in Tylerville - Blueway Commons-project is proceeding nicely. Looking to start pre-leasing late summer and first units available in November. Has applied to PZC for additional 32 units at the end of the cul-de-sac for a total unit count of 88 units. PZC hearing June 2nd.

105 Bridge Road – 42 apartments fully approved. Owner reports:  “At this current time we have received our complete set of permit drawings. We are reviewing them internally before we submit. We are also are in the process of receiving pricing from subcontractors. As you are aware the cost of materials is at an all-time high so it making difficult secure materials at a fair price. Our intention is still the same and we hope apply for a construction permit in the very near future.”

1572 Saybrook Road – This is the historic home at the corner of Brooks Court. The owner has secured approval from ARC and PZC to expand the existing house and potentially 2 additional buildings.The uses would be retail / office/ restaurant.

HADDAM CENTER

Sidewalks

On schedule for June ground breaking; contractor has submitted all required documentsand pre- constriction meeting complete. Waiting on encroachment permit from CTDOT.

7 Island Dock – Hope Garden Wellness Center

Wrapping up construction, a few remaining issues. But primary problem is inability to secure fire pump for sprinklers. This will delay occupancy by patients.