A zoning proposal from a nonprofit to turn the former Super 8 motel into a homeless shelter has been withdrawn.  But Danbury officials say despite strong public opposition, the plan is still moving forward.  The Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its June 10 meeting, and the public hearing on the proposal. 

An attorney for Pacific House argues that zoning approval isn't needed because hotels are allowed in the zone, and that hotels and shelters are similar in use because visitors are transient in both cases. 

The original application to the Zoning Board of Appeals included a report from the City's Planning Director noting that a shelter at that site would not be “inconsistent” with property designations outlined in the Plan of Conservation and Development.  But Sharon Calitro noted that the City has different definitions for hotels and shelters.

The homeless population has been housed at the hotel since the start of the pandemic, but the gubernatorial executive orders, as of now, are sent to end July 20th.