A developer’s dream if I ever saw one. At [the Feb. 15] Windsor Council meeting it was decided development impact fees for sewer and water would be decreased from $19,500 to $13,200 per new dwelling unit with granny or auxiliary units fees for these services reduced to -0-. This is basically a 1/3 reduction. Significant work went into the analysis and the reductions have their benefits to the Town in terms reducing certain limitations on how the impact fees may be spent. I failed to support the new methodology and reduction as Council was advised our capital reserves for our sewer treatment is very minimal at $171,000. I am alarmed that these reductions go into effect on the verge of 800 to 1,000 new units coming forward and the demands of new housing on our current system will be unfairly passed on to you, the existing rate payers. I understand Windsor’s reclaimed water needs include storage ponds and recycled water connection to the Airport Business Center among others. I cannot see how these infrastructure needs can be met with these reductions.
Added to these reductions is my belief that the Town has failed to address necessary changes in our fee structure where new development provides limited support for the inclusion of low income housing with their projects. Many ask where will Windsor’s children live as housing prices spiral upwards. The Town’s requirement that a certain portion of new homes built be affordable or pay a fee has resulted in little financial support and little developer interest in building the units as part of their project preferring the in-lieu fee. All cities that I am aware of have this type of housing support but many require the units be built or are moving in that direction. Despite two years of repeated urging, our low-income housing inclusionary requirements have not been changed or adjusted to address the need for a variety of housing types being added to our community.
Last was the suggestion at the Council meeting that the executive director of the North Bay Builder’s Exchange be considered to MC the Town’s 25th anniversary celebration. It struck me as odd. Not that the director would not be entertaining and knowledgeable, he is. It is just that I feel Windsor becoming overly influenced by developers and growth is being welcomed without the care and consideration given to our environment and character that many have come to cherish.
Sam Salmon
Windsor Town Council
