Public Act 25-49 (HB-5002), if signed into law, would impose sweeping, top-down requirements that would create confusion, undermine thoughtful planning, and impose compliance burdens on municipalities.

As representatives of Connecticut’s small towns and cities, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. This legislation, if enacted, would mandate compliance with State demands that are not only unrealistic but would also critically compromise the bulk of our state discretionary funding. 

Most of Connecticut’s cities and towns cherish their unique character and governance, which has enabled diverse communities to thrive under self-directed guidelines tailored to their distinct needs. The proposed bill, HB-5002—an omnibus housing legislation—seeks to strip away much of that local governance in favor of a one-size-fits-all approach. This is deeply concerning to those who hold dear the character and autonomy of small communities.

Moreover, the financial implications of this bill are staggering. Prioritizing a breadth of funds would directly impact the quality of local services such as education, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs, which are essential to ensuring a high quality of life for all residents. Many of these communities have carefully balanced budgets where such state funds are pivotal, and while the legislation doesn't outright remove such funding, it buries towns who are unable to comply at the bottom of the list to receive it. 

We recognize the need for addressing housing challenges in our state, yet this bill, in its current form, is not the solution. It overlooks the specific needs and contexts of small towns, where enforcement of these mandates could lead to unintended, severe economic distress.

We urge Governor Ned Lamont to exercise his veto power and reject HB-5002. 

Sign this petition to stand with Connecticut's local leaders and ensure the voices of our small communities are heard and respected. Let us work together towards solutions that genuinely cater to the varying needs of all towns and cities across Connecticut. Sign now to make a difference.

• "Fair Share" Housing Mandate – HB-5002 requires the state to determine a “fair share” housing allocation for each municipality based on a flawed methodology that fails to consider factors such as water and wastewater capacity. Municipalities must adopt policies to “create a realistic opportunity” for developers to build the number of affordable housing units allocated to the municipality, subject to approval by the state. Municipalities may contest or seek adjustment to their allocation, subject to approval by the state. HB-5002 also requires certain municipalities to develop a detailed priority housing plan in addition to the existing planning requirement. This confusing set of compliance hurdles will undermine thoughtful local planning and divert time and resources away from other local needs.  
• Ban on Minimum Parking Requirements – By banning municipalities from establishing off-street parking requirements for developments with up to 24 units and allowing developers to determine parking requirements for larger projects, HB-5002 undermines the ability of towns to address traffic and other issues to protect public safety.
• Tying Eligibility for Infrastructure Grants to Zoning Compliance – Infrastructure investment is critical to supporting well-maintained transportation networks, enhancing economic and community development, addressing water quality issues, and expanding wastewater capacity. By prioritizing infrastructure funding based on compliance with certain zoning requirements, HB-5002 undermines the availability of funding needed to support ongoing infrastructure investment.
• Conversion of Commercial Lots "As-of-Right" – HB-5002 requires municipalities to allow the conversion of commercial lots to 2-9 unit middle housing developments as-of-right, sidestepping local oversight in ways that can create certain problems. Municipalities work hard to market vacant commercial properties to attract new businesses and grow their grand lists. HB-5002 risks the loss of such commercial properties in favor of residential development.
• One-Sided Attorney’s Fees Provision – HB-5002 unfairly penalizes towns and local planning commissions for exercising their right to appeal under 8-30g, the Affordable Housing Appeals Act, by subjecting them to possible attorney’s fees. This one-sided provision is unnecessary given the existing abuse of process protections in place.