P&Z sets planting buffer around Sharon solar array

SHARON — The Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) unanimously voted in favor of a planting buffer plan offered by Verogy and the Connecticut Green Bank, developers of the project.

The action was taken at the regular P&Z meeting Wednesday, March 13, following months of study and discussion, including a recent site visit to understand the visual impact on neighbors of the approved solar energy project to be installed at Sharon Center School.

Representing Verogy Solar Solutions of West Hartford, director of design Brad Parsons reviewed three options for vegetative buffer plantings to be installed between Hilltop Road residences and the project. The P&Z favored the most robust landscaping option offering maximum plantings.

Two of the options included evergreen plantings of white pine and white spruce in differing quantity, while the third option that was approved by the P&Z will see the planting of 21 white pine and white spruce trees, but intersperse deciduous planting of serviceberry, American dogwood, and witch hazel among the evergreens.

Discussion included the proximity of the existing overgrown nature trail to neighboring property lines, determining that brush removal will be a part of the preparations for tree plantings.

Rainwater runoff from the site was of concern to P&Z Chairman Laurance Rand, noting that runoff volume from the solar panels themselves could be an additional issue. Land use administrator Jamie Casey suggested that the town hire the services of a monitor. Betsy Hall, P&Z vice chair, agreed that monitoring runoff should be a priority.

Included in the approval was a P&Z provision that the town will hire a runoff monitor for up to one year following installation.

Latest News

GNH blanks St. Paul 34-0 in Turkey Bowl

Wes Allyn breaks away from the St. Paul defense for a reception touchdown Wednesday, Nov. 26.

Photo by Riley Klein

BRISTOL — The Gilbert/Northwestern/Housatonic co-op football team ended the season with a 34-0 shutout victory over St. Paul Catholic High School Wednesday, Nov. 26.

It was GNH’s fourth consecutive Turkey Bowl win against St. Paul and the final game for 19 GNH seniors.

Keep ReadingShow less
Students curate Katro Storm portraits at HVRHS

“Once Upon a Time in America” features ten portraits by artist Katro Storm.

Natalia Zukerman

The Kearcher-Monsell Gallery at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village is once again host to a wonderful student-curated exhibition. “Once Upon a Time in America,” ten portraits by New Haven artist Katro Storm, opened on Nov. 20 and will run through the end of the year.

“This is our first show of the year,” said senior student Alex Wilbur, the current head intern who oversees the student-run gallery. “I inherited the position last year from Elinor Wolgemuth. It’s been really amazing to take charge and see this through.”

Keep ReadingShow less
Mini horses, big impact: animal learning center opens in Sheffield

Le Petit Ranch offers animal-assisted therapy and learning programs for children and seniors in Sheffield.

Marjorie Borreda

Le Petit Ranch, a nonprofit offering animal-assisted therapy and learning programs, opened in April at 147 Bears Den Road in Sheffield. Founded by Marjorie Borreda, the center provides programs for children, families and seniors using miniature horses, rescued greyhounds, guinea pigs and chickens.

Borreda, who moved to Sheffield with her husband, Mitch Moulton, and their two children to be closer to his family, has transformed her longtime love of animals into her career. She completed certifications in animal-assisted therapy and coaching in 2023, along with coursework in psychiatry, psychology, literacy and veterinary skills.

Keep ReadingShow less