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Battle over noise at Polo Grounds gets personal

By Paul Palmer

Staff Writer


FARMINGTON – The ongoing dispute between the owners of the Farmington Polo Grounds and its neighbors regarding a request to expand a special permit allowing more events took a nasty turn at the last Plan and Zoning Commission Meeting. Representatives of Town Farm Development, LLC are looking for modifications to an existing special permit that allowed a number of non-polo and non-equestrian events at the Town Farm Road site. Neighbors objected saying that the current level of noise from car shows, and polo matches is ruining their lives.

During public comment at the May 8 hearing, Kristy Sevag, who does public relations for the Club, was repeatedly interrupted by those in charge of the meeting when her comments strayed from the application to personal attacks on people that spoke out against the request.

“This is basically going to come down to social people versus anti-social people as we have seen here tonight,” she said. “We once wanted to play nice with the neighbors who are now calling us out and I have made the decision that it is now time to level up and do a little of that ourselves. I refuse to sit back and allow all of the embellished and stretched truths to ruin what we have built. It is beyond exaggerated and I am calling it out tonight.” Sevag then went on to denigrate the property of a neighbor who opposed the plan, calling his property “an eyesore of an unkempt garden laying on our property complete with a broken-down trailer and busted fence. I think they are growing dust and I hate to even insult the word by calling it a garden it looks dreadful.” She added that the child of the homeowner had called to tell the club to ignore her father’s complaints. At that point members of the audience – and even some members of the commission – raised complaints about the personal nature of the attacks.

Town Planner Shannon Rutherford, who was controlling the on-line comments, interrupted Sevag with a reminder.

“Excuse me, the comments need to be directed in respect to the application and the pros and cons of the application,” Rutherford said. “We are not going to tolerate comments regarding each of the individuals that have spoken. There have not been any comments made that are directed at any of the employees at the Polo Grounds. It’s about the application and the merits of the application.”

Sevag then went on to complain about someone she referred to as “ neighbor b,” someone else that had spoken in opposition. Once again Rutherford had to remind Sevag that she needed to stay on the application, and this time she went a step farther, taking it up with Town Farm Development’s David Falt who was attending in person.

“Mr. Falt I am assuming this person works for you and if you cannot figure out how to get this redirected then we will move onto the next comment,” she told him. Falt told Sevag to stick to the application.

When Sevag continued she spoke of the money that is raised by events at the Club and said, “The negative words are accomplishing nothing that I hear tonight. I absolutely refuse to allow the negative noise that the neighbors are creating tonight to stop all the good we do. It is unbelievably frustrating to be monitored in how we choose to spend millions of dollars on our property to make your property value higher. We definitely see when a home is listed for sale the first line is always overlooking the beautiful Farmington Polo Club…” and once she again had to be told that if she did not keep her comments on the merits of the application he microphone would be shut off.

Sevag concluded her remarks by saying, “Stifling us will only be another step toward unemployment and sadness for the community. From my heart, please allow us this season and future ones to change the very few minds that oppose us.”

The comments stood in contrast to those made by Falt and attorney Christian Hoheb, who have been representing the Club, and talked about respecting the concerns of the neighbors and wanting to find solutions that worked for both groups.

Farmington has granted the owners a series of special permits to allow for the activities since 2016. They are needed as the area is zoned for housing. In their latest proposal to the Town for the special application, they decided to move the start time of the Cars and Coffee events on Sunday mornings back to 830 a.m. from 8 a.m. Those events are a key sticking point as neighbors say the cars arrive early, revving engines as they arrive and depart. They had previously announced that they would be hiring 3 off-duty Farmington police officers to patrol along Town Farm and other nearby roads to enforce noise and traffic laws.

Under the existing permit, up to 12 non-polo/non equestrian events are allowed at the grounds each year; the majority are car shows. Hoheb explained that under the existing agreement, events could be multiple days, “The applicant has approval for 12 non polo/non equestrian events. 6 of those 12 can be 3-day events and if you add those up that amounts to 24 days of activity. The new version counts days (not events) and it maxed at 25 – so there’s only one more non polo event under that portion of the application.”

In addressing the concerns about prolonged, excessive noise from both polo matches and other events, the Polo Club said it has installed a new speaker and is putting in a monitoring system to ensure that it stays within the town regulations for decibels. “If windows rattle,“ said Falt, “ it is not from our events.” They added that the Town can select where they want the noise monitors placed along the edge of the Polo Grounds property.

For neighbors, the proposals still did not go far enough, many believing that they will continue to be prevented from enjoying the peace of their own homes and property, especially on the weekends. Anne Gerard lives near the location and said that the changes being offered will only result in increasing the wealth of the owners of the Polo Grounds. “I would never have bought near the Polo Grounds 15 years ago if I could have foreseen this.” Pierre Guertin who lives in nearby Devonwood said it is time the entire special permit process was reexamined. “They (Town Farm Development) have been driving this bus and the town has allowed them unfettered use,” he said. “It is not 15 or 20 minutes of noise; it is 4 hours of noise at these events.”

Several people were also on hand to express their support for the owners, though most spoke of the positive experiences they and their families have had boarding and riding their horses on the property. Jennifer Bennett, who also lives in Devonwood and boards a horse there, she said she has attended most of the events that are held on the grounds.

“I’ve been on a horse during the coffee and cars events and the cars are parked they are not driving around.” She added that her home is located near the Winding Trials Camp and she said there is a lot of noise from there, but no one complains. “They have sing-alongs, acoustic nights, and fireworks and I can hear all of that and it has not ben brought up here.” She said that the sounds from both are sounds of the summer and the community and that she enjoys being able to hear them.

Kathy Braga said she too is a boarding family at the Club and said she wanted to address concerns that were raised about how the noise could impact the equines. She said neither of their horses have ever shown any signs of being frightened or upset, and she added that for all the good the Club does, it’s a shame that neighbors are upset.

“It was there when you moved in and there have been things happening on the grounds for decades. I understand with technology it is probably louder there now, but they are working really hard to make it palatable for everyone and continuing to do all the good things they do.”

For many years before Town Farm Development purchased the property in 2015, it was in disrepair and polo matches and non-profit events like Coffee and Cars and others were not taking place.

Following several hours of comments and questions from the Commission members, the public hearing on Town Farm Development LLC’s application to modify the conditions of the approved special permit for event use at 152 Town Farm Road was closed. The Plan and Zoning Commission will begin discussions and possibly vote at its next meeting on May 22.









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Valley Happenings

UPDATED:

Fighting Cancer Pasta Dinner:

Benefit for Avon Volunteer Fire Department

Deputy Chief Dave Theriault

Sunday, February 23, 2025, 3:00-7:00 p.m. 

Farmington Polo Club, 162 Town Farm Road, Farmington

 

AVFD Deputy Chief of Administration Dave Theriault is facing a tough battle against Stage 4 cancer. The AVFD, along with Tunxis Hose Co. No. 1 and the Farmington Fire Department, is holding a pasta dinner to help raise money for Chief Theriault’s medical expenses. Cheese and crackers from 3:00-4:00 p.m., buffet from 4:00-6:00 p.m., and coffee and dessert from 6:00-7:00 p.m. In addition to delicious food, drinks, and camaraderie, the event will feature dozens of raffle prizes. Event tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for seniors and children under 10 years old. They can be purchased at the door or online at www.HometownFoundation.org Contributions can be made via Venmo @supportDave or by mail to the AVFD at 25 Darling Drive, Avon, CT 06001. 

Canton Community Health Fund Applications

Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. Opens 2025 Application Season, on March 1, 2025, for Canton Community Partner Grants & Canton Scholars Pursuing Careers in Healthcare or Public Safety Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. (CCHF), opens its grant and scholarship application season March 1. CCHF encourages State of CT certified non-profits serving the Canton community to apply for Community Partner grants. In addition, graduating high school seniors seeking higher education in healthcare or public safety are invited to apply for either a Dr. Diters Legacy Scholarship or a Pay It Forward Scholarship. Applications and informative Fact Sheets are available online at www.cantoncommunityhealthfund.org.  Community Partner Grant and Scholarship awards will be announced in June/2025.

 

Avon Library events

AVON –The following events are scheduled at Avon Free Public Library. The library is at Avon Library, 281 Country Club Road, Avon. All programs are in person except where noted. For more information on adult programs, contact Adult Services Reference Desk via avonref@avonctlibrary.info 860-673-9712 x 7203

• Antique Map Collecting 101, Saturday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. Registration is required: https://www.avonctlibrary.info/event/antique-map-collecting/

• Morning Book Club. Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 10:30 a.m., The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose, Registration is required: https://www.avonctlibrary.info/events/tag/morning-book-club/

• Meditation for Balance and Inner Contentment. (Virtual Event) Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 pm.

• Eastern Coyotes in Connecticut (Virtual Event) Thursday, Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m.

• Fashion and the First Lady (Virtual Event). Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m.

• Hoop Skirts to Flappers: Eighty Years of Connecticut Fashion. Monday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.

• The Golden Age of Hollywood. (Virtual Event) Tuesday, March 4 at 2 pm.

 

Simsbury Lions Club

The Simsbury Lions Club is looking for people interested in volunteering and contributing to better our town. Our motto is “We serve,” and we do so by volunteering at local events and donating our proceeds to serving interests in our community.

If interested, please feel free to contact Sandy Kremer at Tprkremer@gmail.com or Philip Painchaud at painchaudp@gmail.com.”

 

Winter sowing workshop

The Farmington Land trust is hosting a winter sowing workshop focused on raising native plants. Make your own up-cycled greenhouse from a milk jug and prep some beneficial native plants for the coming growing season. Sunday, Feb 2 from 11a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Farmington Senior Center. RSVP here: https://www.farmingtonlandtrust.org/event-details/winter-sowing-seminar-native-seed-planting

 

Wild Flowers from Spring to Fall

CANTON – The Cherry Brook Garden Club is hosting a lecture on “Following Our Wild Flowers from Spring to Fall” on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Canton Community Center, lower level, 40 Dyer Avenue. Steve Messier, Lichenologist and former Science teacher at Canton High School will discuss the topic. The lecture is open to the public. There is a $5 guest fee for non-members. Email questions to cherrybrookgardenclub@gmail.com.

 

‘Five Wishes’ at McLean

SIMSBURY – Join Kevin Baran, M.D., medical director, and the McLean Hospice Team for a special “McLean & Me Educational Series” presentation to learn how to talk about and record your wishes for care through the end of life, so those wishes can be understood and respected. The presentation will be held at McLean’s Garmany Performing Arts Center, 50 Sarah Lane, Simsbury, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m. The presentation is free but an RSVP by Feb. 4 is required as seating is limited. A light dinner will be provided.

To register, visit McLeanCare.org/Events, email Margaret.Clark@McLeanCare.org, or call 860-658-3718.

 

‘Art Throb!’ Exhibit

Gallery on the Green presents “Art Throb!” Exhibit plus a Solo Exhibit by Kathi Packer Friday, Feb. 14 through Saturday, March 15. An opening reception is on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 6-8 p.m. and will include refreshments. The show and reception are free.

“Art Throb!” is a heartfelt Valentine’s Day celebration presented by the membership of Canton Artists’ Guild. The artists use a wide range of media including painting, prints, drawing, photography, sculpture, ceramics and mixed media to represent the emotional intensity, joy and complexity of love.

In the upstairs Gallery, Kathi Packer has a solo show, “Another Tale.”  Packer notes that a friend’s casual invitation to go on safari in 2008 substantially changed the direction of her artistic journey.The gallery is located near the intersection of Dowd Avenue and Route 44 at 5 Canton Green Road in Canton. Hours are Friday – Sunday, 1-5 pm. The main floor gallery is handicapped accessible.

Website: http://www.galleryonthegreen.org; Phone:  860-693-4102

 

TABLESCAPES fundraiser returns to benefit the new

Avon History Museum

AVON – The Avon Historical Society invites the public to its sixth TABLESCAPES event showcasing up to 30 creative and original table settings on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15 at the historic North House, 1 Nod Road, Avon.

This event will feature themed table settings from local professional designers, florists, businesses, individuals, artists and others featuring fresh floral arrangements, centerpieces and accessories. Proceeds will benefit the installation of professionally curated exhibits in the new Avon History Museum scheduled to open on Friday, July 4, 2025.

Back by popular demand will be a “Table and Barware Tag Sale” on both days. Admission to TABLESCAPES includes the tag sale. Tickets are $20 each pre-sale and at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.avonhistoricalsociety.org or by calling Mary Harrop at 860-670-3225 before March 8.

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can also call Harrop.

 

Alzheimer’s Support Group

FARMINGTON – Hearts, Hugs & Hope: An Alzheimer’s Support Group takes place Feb. 20, 2025, 6 p.m. at Farmington Station Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 111 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group is being offered both in person and via Zoom on the third Thursday of each month. If you plan to attend, contact Director of Compass Programming Katherine Jedynasty at kjedynasty@farmingtonslr.com.

 

Used book sale

AVON - A huge book sale will be held Feb. 28 and March 1 in St. Ann’s Church Hall, 289 Arch Road at Route 167.  Hours are Friday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. ($5 adult admission) and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (no admission fee).

Thousands of books will be organized in separate sections, including Fiction, History, Biography, Politics, Children, Music, Cooking, Sports, Art, Vintage, and more!  A large selection of Children’s books will be available.  Fiction books will be divided by hardcover, paperback, and trade paperback and sorted alphabetically by author.  DVDs, CDs, books on CDs, Vinyl records, and puzzles will be available, also.  Most books will be $3 or less with vintage and specialty books priced higher.

 

Daisy Days: All-Girls Summer Day Camp Experience

FARMINGTON – Miss Porter’s School, a renowned institution with a legacy of empowering young women, is excited to announce the launch of Daisy Days, an all-new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5 this fall. Starting this summer, Daisy Days will offer a unique, joy-filled experience designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and inspire self-discovery in an empowering all-girls environment.

For additional details, visit pcgl.porters.org/daisy-days.

 

Artist demonstration

Avon Arts Association will hold a guest artist demonstration featuring  Granby artist Laura Eden on Tuesday, February 18 at  Avon Town Hall, 60 W. Main St., lower level, at 6:30 p.m. Ms. Eden will demonstrate egg tempera painting.

The demo is free and open to the public ($5 suggested donation). A workshop with Ms. Eden will be held at the same location in the Avon Room on Saturday, Feb. 22, 10-2 with  set up at 9:30. Fee: $45 for members, $55 for nonmembers). www.AvonArts.org

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