Local residents are set to challenge the recent approval of a plan to construct over 700,000 square feet of industrial space at the former Timex headquarters on Christian Road. Jennifer Mahr, a resident of Middlebury, revealed plans to appeal the decision, which she believes disregarded public opinion.
Last Thursday, the Middlebury Planning & Zoning Commission voted 3-2 in favor of Southford Park, LLC's application, including a text amendment increasing the maximum building height in industrial zones from 35 to 44 feet. The approval, despite vocal opposition from locals at the Shepardson Community Center, has been a point of statewide contention, with residents fearing an Amazon-like facility with heavy truck traffic.
Residents, showing their disapproval through yard signs and wearing red at meetings, argue that the development contradicts the town's wishes. Mahr, leading the Middlebury Small Town Alliance, expressed her disappointment but not surprise at the decision, which follows a previous appeal against the Middlebury Conservation Commission's approval last May. She criticized the decision as ignoring the electorate's will and hopes for a reversal in court.
Mahr's activism led to her recent election to the Board of Selectmen. She remains critical of the Planning & Zoning Commission's decision, which she feels goes against the community's desires.
The proposed development still awaits state approval, pending a Department of Transportation traffic study. A recent state law, aimed at limiting large buildings on properties with significant wetlands, seemed to initially halt the project. However, Southford Park, LLC's real estate strategy with Timex circumvented this law.
Middlebury Zoning Enforcement Officer Curt Bosco explained that the proposed project aligns with the town's regulations for light industrial use, which includes warehousing. In contrast, Mahr argues that Middlebury's zoning does not support trucking terminals and that the development contradicts the town's semi-rural identity and conservation plan.
The plan for the Timex property includes flexible space for multiple tenants, with Southford Park LLC requesting a height exception for modern industrial building standards. Last May, tensions rose when the Conservation Commission approved part of the application, leading to confrontations with residents. The Zoning Commission also allowed the movement of a large volume of material on site, further fueling local discontent.
For those in the Middlebury community considering buying or selling property in the midst of these developments, Triniyah Real Estate is available to provide expert guidance. Interested parties can contact them for a consultation at (203) 200-0933.
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