Connecticut House Bill HB06294

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Requirement Of A Donation Of Land As A Condition Of Subdivision Approval.

Impact

The passage of HB 06294 would signify a notable shift in local government authority concerning land use regulations. By restricting municipalities from mandating land donations, the bill could encourage more developers to pursue subdivision applications, potentially increasing housing availability and economic activity in the region. However, this change may also limit local governments' ability to negotiate benefits or concessions that could have been obtained through land donation agreements, which have been used as tools for public good, such as creating parks or green spaces.

Summary

House Bill 06294 aims to amend Title 8 of the general statutes to explicitly prohibit municipalities from requiring land donations as a condition for subdivision approval. This legislative effort is designed to prevent local governments from imposing additional requirements on developers seeking to subdivide land, thus streamlining the approval process. The intent is to facilitate development and reduce barriers that may discourage property development initiatives.

Contention

Debate around HB 06294 may center on the balance between facilitating development and maintaining local control. Proponents of the bill likely argue that it is crucial for economic growth and that removing the donation requirement will make it easier for developers to operate within the state. Opponents might contend that this bill undermines local governance and the ability of municipalities to shape their communities according to specific needs, particularly in regions where land use and public space planning are of high concern.