Groton Representative Town Meeting - 3/11/26

The Groton Representative Town Meeting on March 11, 2026, focused extensively on housing and economic development challenges facing the town. The Planning Director presented detailed findings on the shortage of "missing middle" housing, such as duplexes and small starter homes, highlighting zoning, building codes, and local opposition as key barriers. The discussion emphasized the need for regional collaboration and proactive zoning reforms to address workforce housing demands, especially given the growth pressures from local employers like Electric Boat. Additionally, the meeting covered budget preparations with a public hearing scheduled for March 25, and approved a resolution to allocate $37,895.60 from miniature liquor bottle revenue funds to purchase additional solar trash compactors for town parks. Committee reports noted challenges with quorum attendance and ongoing efforts to engage youth in governance through a student liaison program. Overall, the meeting underscored the town's efforts to balance development, environmental concerns, and community input in its planning and budgeting processes.