East Lyme denies zone change for Dodge Pond development

East Lyme's Zoning Commission voted 5-1 on Thursday to reject a proposal for a zone change that could have allowed development around Dodge Pond. The application aimed to create a senior living and medical facility in the area. Residents attending the meeting reacted positively to the decision. The discussion focused on a broader change in zoning rules, not just a specific project. Attorney Edward Cassella, representing developer Eric Pelletier, emphasized that any developer would still need approval from the Zoning Commission before moving forward. Pelletier's plan included building 144 condominiums, 72 apartments, and a 150-bed assisted living facility on nearly 40 acres near Pennsylvania Avenue. Concerns about overdevelopment were voiced by residents during the meeting. Commissioner Debbie Jett-Harris expressed her opposition, saying the proposed "floating zone," or overlay zone, could favor development over public interests. Commissioner Denise Markovitz noted that the project did not align with the town's conservation plans, a point reinforced by the Planning Commission. The only vote in favor of the zone change came from Commissioner Michael Foley, who argued it would give the commission more regulatory discretion. Pelletier claimed the development would meet the community's need for senior housing and provide economic benefits, like improved sewer access and a shuttle service to local businesses. However, residents, including Don Danila and Emily Phillips-Geeza, warned that such changes could lead to excessive development and were ill-suited for the town's central area. Fair Rent Commission chair John Vilcheck expressed concerns that the zone change would allow unwanted development.