This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

Severe Opposition

I thank the Harbor News for printing my letter [Aug. 3, “Petition to Halt PZC CVS Decision”] regarding my petition in opposition to the recent proposed settlement between the Clinton Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC) and the developer trying to relocate a CVS to the most dangerous intersection on Route 1 in Clinton. That settlement would also allow a drive-thru despite the fact that regulations prohibit a drive-thru, for good reason. Traffic at the proposed location at the corner of High Street and Route 1 is already intolerable, particularly in summertime.

Clinton has a town meeting form of government. Important town decisions are to be decided by town meeting or referendum. The developer’s original application was unanimously denied after hundreds of residents appeared in opposition at that public hearing. The settlement agreement never even had a public hearing. I believe a public hearing of this settlement was intentionally bypassed in order to circumvent public opposition, which would again be overwhelming.

Settlements like this are very rare. They require court approval. The courts are very concerned about collusion or fraud. Selectman John Giannotti stands to gain financially from this proposed settlement. Giannotti is a member of the Republican Town Committee, along with six PZC members. They all know each other very well and have common interests, including getting re-elected. None of them voted against the settlement.

A public hearing is a necessary safeguard, but PZC disallowed a public hearing, which would have seen hundreds once again oppose this plan.

I intend to make sure the land use office, PZC’s attorney, and the court are made fully aware that there’s severe opposition to this proposed settlement. It warrants a public hearing.

Anyone wishing to sign my petition may do so at www.thepetitionsite.com (search “cvs settlement).

Vincent Cimino

Clinton