Interim Zoning Enforcement Officer Troy Lamere told the Planning and Zoning Commission Tuesday night that all zoning permits have been withdrawn for new facilities at the Manor House on Maple Avenue. The large inn operates under a special exception in a residential zone.
Previous ZEO Karl Nilsen had issued permits for construction of a “residential garage” and a “hot tub,” much to the consternation of neighboring property owners who believed that the permits expanded a non-conforming use. Nilsen argued at the July P&Z meeting that the garage permit was for domestic use and not a business expansion and that the hot tub fit within the definition of permitted recreational uses.
Nilsen did not bring the application for the permits to the July meeting, but later reviews by neighbors revealed that the “hot tub” would have encompassed a large outdoor spa complex with a hot tub, sauna, cold plunge pool, sitting area and changing facilities.
Nilsen resigned at the end of July and Lamere, Norfolk’s public works foreman and formerly Harwinton ZEO, filled the position until Stacey Sefcik was appointed to the post. Sefcik will begin regular hours in the last week of August.
Lamere said the permits were withdrawn by the Manor House owners, but that they may reapply in the future. “Right now, there is nothing in front of the board,” he said.