Residents upset over soup kitchen moving in

NORWICH, Conn. (WTNH) -- Some Norwich residents are concerned about a soup kitchen moving into their normally quiet and private neighborhood.

St. Vincent de Paul Place has been operating its soup kitchen in the St. Joseph School for two weeks now; two weeks too long for some folks.

"The main concerns are it really doesn't belong in the middle of a residential neighborhood," said Brian Kobylarz.

Kobylarz along with two St. Joseph parishioners and a Norwich city councilor express concerns about the soup kitchen's move from a downtown building while it is renovated.

"All of this happened behind our backs," said Kobylarz.

"Did neighbors need to be notified about this move," asked News 8's Tina Detelj.

"The soup kitchen was looking for a place to go temporarily," said Jim Troeger, building inspector.

Since the move is temporary, News 8 has learned it did not have to go through the zoning board or public hearings. We also found out from the Mayor and city manager the city initially denied using the school because of ADA compliance, but the state allowed it because of the temporary use.

"...which is allowed for a maximum of six months," said Troeger.

Some residents fear behind-the-scene deals will extend that deadline.

News 8 brought residents' concerns to the Diocese of Norwich. The spokesperson wasn't there to speak to us, but he did speak with us on the phone and says that right now six months is the plan, although it does depend on what happens to the downtown location which is undergoing renovations.

So on the phone we pressed him even further, asking if it could be longer than six months? He said that anything is possible, but it also could be shorter than six months.

"At this point we are past the tipping point in this neighborhood and it's one I fear will be a permanent scar," said Kobylarz.

Residents hope both the city and diocese will meet with them.