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Quarry Owner Files $25 Million Lawsuit Against East Haven Officials

There’s a new development regarding the quarry on Barberry Road in East Haven.

John Patton, majority owner of the quarry, is seeking $25 million in damages. East Haven Mayor Joseph Maturo, Jr., Fire Marshall Mark Nimons, Tax Assessor Michael Milici, and Zoning Enforcement Officer Christopher Soto are being sued as individuals.

The town has, since February, issued three cease-and-desist orders to quarry owner One Barberry Real Estate Holding for tree clearing and other activities the town has said were unpermitted.

Attorney Peter Alter of Alter & Pearson, LLC in Glastonbury, who is representing Patton, alleges that Maturo and other town officials have acted illegally to put the legally operating quarry out of business. He said it was unfortunate that it had to come to this, but his client had no other choice.

Town Attorney Joseph Zullo issued comments from the town.

“At this early juncture, the town is continuing to review the allegations of the complaint,” said Zullo, “However, on behalf of the town and the mayor, I want to make it clear to our residents that in all matters, and in particular this matter, the Town of East Haven will not be bullied or intimidated.”

Zullo also said the town appreciates the severity of the allegations and the claim for damages made by the plaintiffs, but are prepared to contest those allegations to whatever extent is necessary to protect the town’s best interests and the interests and quality of life of those residents affected in this case.