KENT, Conn.—After reviewing a planting plan to remediate the removal of trees from a ridgeline development off Kenmont Road, the Planning and Zoning Commission last week approved issuance of a temporary certificate of zoning compliance for owners Jessica and Alex Goldvarg.
The plan will restore trees that were inadvertently removed from the large tract when the Goldvargs began construction of their five-bedroom home, three-car detached garage, swimming pool and guest house. They own 199 acres of hilltop land, 192 acres of which remains forested, but the removal of the trees created a disruption in the ridgeline.
The home is nearing completion and the Goldvargs are eager to bring their site plan into compliance so they can occupy the property. The temporary CZC covers only the house and drive and expires after six months. Other structures on the property will have to be approved and inspected separately as they are completed, giving Zoning Enforcement Officer Tai Kern the opportunity to revisit to the property and to observe the newly installed trees.
The Goldvargs will post a bond to ensure compliance with the site plan.
During a special meeting on Aug. 20, PZC members conferred with Jessica Goldvarg, an architect, and landscape professional Michael O’Connell. They presented a revised plan for the restoration that added three eastern white pines. Introducing evergreens into the design was suggested by commission members at a previous meeting.
The group discussed placement of the trees and suggested that the evergreens should be eight to 10 feet in height and that the deciduous trees’ trunks measure 2.5 inches. If the newly planted trees should fail, they will be replaced.
Goldvarg reported that they have discussed a maintenance plan with her professionals and O’Connell said all the plantings have a one-year warranty.
