The Bethel Planning and Zoning Commission at their meeting this week voted against two affordable housing proposals.  One application was for 11, two-bedroom apartments on Good Hill Road while the other was for 9 two-bedroom apartments on Shelley Road.  Both were submitted by Developer Tim Draper under the state's 8-30g law, which allowed developer to bypass local zoning laws in most cases, as long as a certain percentage are dedicated as affordable. 

Draper says he will revise the Shelley Road development after the fire marshal deemed the driveway as unsafe for emergency vehicles. 

The Inland Wetland Commission initially rejected the Shelley Woods application, but granted approval after facing a lawsuit.  The Planning Commission in their rejection this week said the a 30,000 gallon water tank is needed because the soil is not suitable for septic systems. 

He will appeal the Good Hill Road decision.

Calling it a semi rural area, the Planning Commission said proper outdoor amenities promote a healthy environment and the proposal  lacks sidewalks and green space.  They added that residents would look into the second floor of the development from their first floor living area.  Draper maintains there is no health or safety issue.