Hekemian Attorney Requests More Meetings, Less Public Interaction

Andy DelVecchio has been representing Hekemian in an application for zoning variances that would allow the development of the United Water property adjacent New Milford High School for nearly two years.

The applicant is looking to develop a 70,500 sq. ft. supermarket, a 4,300 sq. ft. bank and 24 affordable housing units.

DelVecchio recently sent a letter to the zoning board asking for an increase in the amount of meetings and a limit on time for public comment and questions.

In his letter, DelVecchio acknowledges that the board has, at the request of the applicant, scheduled at least one and at times, two special meetings in addition to their regular monthly meeting.

As the 2-year mark of public hearing approaches, the applicant is looking for more meetings and shorter public interactions.

At the meeting on Monday, Nov. 18, the zoning board agreed on Dec. 2 as the date for their next special meeting. They will also meet for a regular meeting on Dec. 10. After hearing the scheduling of the Dec. 2 meeting, DelVecchio requested that the board reconvene for another special meeting on Dec. 4. In his letter, DelVecchio asks that the board, "as many public meetings a week and a month so that this matter may be concluded by February 14, 2014." 

DelVecchio also mentioned that he would be there at any meeting the zoning board was willing to schedule.

J. Alvaro Alonso, a local attorney, responded with a letter of objection to DelVecchio’s requests.

When Alonso stepped up to speak at Monday’s zoning board meeting, DelVecchio was quick to object.

Check out the interaction in the video above.

DelVecchio declined to comment when asked if he felt that he zoning board was doing enough to accommodate his requests.

What are your thoughts? Should the zoning board take another step toward accommodated the applicant by scheduling a third, or more, meeting each month? Should the public be cut off after seven minutes regardless of the type or relevance of the interaction? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.