Inland Wetlands Watercourse Agency

The West Haven Inland Wetlands Agency held a Regular Meeting on Tuesday March 16, 2021, in at Cielo Banquet (aka West Haven Italian American Club), 85 Chase Lane , West Haven, CT at 6:30 P.M. PRESENT: Commissioners Kane, Beecher, Gilbane, Perrone, Carr and Assistant City Planner Conniff PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Perrone made a motion to approve the meeting minutes of February 16, 202, seconded by Commissioner Gilbane and passed. Administrative Educational Meeting Filling the requirement for DEEP to have an educational meeting Deep required to have at least one educational meeting to enhance the commission’s knowledge on Wetland requirements for the State. Discussion will be on the Wetlands Act and definitions to be used when speaking of Inland- Wetlands. Commissioner Kane stated the current regulations follow the state and when needed they are updated. Ms. Conniff explained the stages of government in the city. This commission is the first stop for applications and will go no further if there is a detriment to the environment. The city cannot override any of the inland wetland regulations. He explained the sections that gives authority to the commission. Ms. Conniff also explained that this commission show ask for other alternatives besides the application that is presented. If not ask, it could be an issue in an appeal. She also explained the definition of cut and fill. Mr. Kane explained that any questions regarding alternative plans should be asked after the application was presented and during discussion period. Mr Kane informed the commission that the state modified the public hearings last year. He also stressed the commissioners’ decisions should be bias and free of prejudice and no commissioner should discuss anything with the applicant before application is presented. Meetings are required to be recorded and transcripts will be prepared upon appeal. All decisions are in writing by preparation of Certification of Decisions. Commission has the right to go to court to enforce and cease and desist. Applications that are denied, regulations must be follow and violation proven. Mr. Kane stated there are courses that commissioners can take to become certified. Staff Reports - none Other Business - none Adjournment: 7:05 p.m. Commissioner Gilbane made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner Beecher and passed.