Substitute Senate Bill No. 1559 seeks to enhance the redevelopment of the South Meadows site in Hartford by transferring authority and resources from the Materials Innovation and Recycling Authority (MIRA) to the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA), effective June 30, 2025. The bill mandates that CRDA will assume ownership and responsibilities for the site, which includes properties at 300 Maxim Road and 100 Reserve Road. It stipulates that any state tax revenue generated from projects at the site will be retained by CRDA for reinvestment. Additionally, the bill allows CRDA to hire former MIRA employees and enter into agreements with state agencies to support redevelopment efforts. It also includes a $5 million allocation from the MIRA Dissolution Authority for managing activities related to properties formerly owned by MIRA, excluding the South Meadows site, and repeals existing legal language regarding fund allocation to replace it with new provisions.

The bill introduces streamlined procedures for obtaining licenses, permits, and approvals for projects at the South Meadows site, including a master process for simultaneous application consideration and automatic approval if no action is taken within ten business days. It also allows for certain inspections to be satisfied through certifications from licensed professionals rather than direct inspections by state officials. Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for public hearings and appeals related to administrative actions, ensuring public input in the decision-making process. It emphasizes the importance of environmental evaluations and public comment, while also providing liability protections for CRDA against pre-existing environmental issues. Overall, the bill aims to facilitate the efficient management and redevelopment of the South Meadows site while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and public engagement.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
FIN Joint Favorable:
File No. 898: