Back in December 2006, the Barkhamsted Board of Selectmen chartered a study committe for the
purpose of economic development. A final report was presented in May. The point of this letter
is to endorse the zoning and regulation changes proposed by team No. 2 (Chris Labbe,
Carmen Smith, Bob Ringuette and Dave Moulton).
The rural beauty of Barkhamsted is why most residents live in our great town. The proposals
put forth in this study are designed to maintain the rural character while still growing
our commercial tax base. This would include zoning for commercial uses by special exception
along the Route 44 corridor. Buildings would need to meet certain architectural guidelines
and the approval of a review committee. Those that did not meet the requirements could still
build, but would be required to have a larger setback from the road. Native, mature
vegetation would help to block the view of the building. Parking areas would also be
regulated so they are less obtrusive. These are just a couple of the excellent proposals
to come fron the committee.
The town of Barkhamsted cannot avoid development, but we can establish rules and regulations
that help to maintain our rural character. I encourage the town boards such as planning
and zoning to take a careful look at the reccomendations of the committee.
