Planning board addresses neighborhood meeting oversight for Deep River Brewery project

The Clayton Planning Board meeting on December 17, 2024, focused on several key issues, including a proposed project that involves a new driveway for the sheriff's office and necessary sidewalk improvements on North Church Street.

During the meeting, board members discussed the specifics of the project, which includes a 30-foot access easement on the right side of the lot. Staff members were present to answer questions, and the applicant was also available for inquiries.

Chair Moore highlighted a technical issue regarding the neighborhood meeting associated with the project. The meeting was held on a Saturday at Deep River Brewery, which did not comply with the Unified Development Ordinance (UDL) that requires such meetings to occur on weekdays from 6 PM to 8 PM. The applicant has agreed to conduct a follow-up neighborhood meeting to address this oversight before the project is presented to the council in February.

The board emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations to ensure community engagement and transparency in the planning process. Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing procedural issues while moving forward with local development projects.