Cheshire to refer DOT remainder parcel on Peck Lane to planning commission so home at 645 Peck Lane can get power

The Town of Cheshire on April 23 voted to refer to the Planning & Zoning Commission a proposal to accept and then transfer a small remainder parcel on Peck Lane, currently owned by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, so the owner of 645 Peck Lane can obtain a utility easement and connect power.

Town Manager Sean Kimball and town staff described the situation: a triangular remnant of land created during a highway straightening project in the 1980s remains on DOT’s books and was discovered while the property owner attempted to obtain an easement from Eversource during site work. According to the town, DOT will not provide a conditional easement, which prevents Eversource from completing the service connection. The proposed approach is for DOT to convey the parcel to the town and for the town to immediately transfer it to the property owner, allowing the owner to secure the power service and complete a home that is roughly 95% built, staff said.

Staff said the action tonight is a referral under Section 8-24 of the Connecticut General Statutes; the Planning & Zoning Commission must review and report back before the council accepts and transfers the parcel. Councilors asked about liability and timing; staff replied the town’s attorney recommended an immediate transfer back to the owner and described the transaction as an “instant transfer” once P&Z clears the referral. The referral was approved unanimously by those present.

The referral will be placed on the next P&Z agenda for an 8-24 review; if P&Z approves the 8-24 report the council plans to consider a final acceptance and transfer at a subsequent meeting.