Neighborhood Limited Enterprise Public Workshop July 1, 2026
Public Workshop – Neighborhood Limited Enterprise (NLE) Regulations
Seeking input from our residents – Wednesday, July 1, 2026 6-8 p.m.
Thompson Public Library/Community Center Meeting Room
What is a Neighborhood Limited Enterprise? A “Neighborhood Limited Enterprise” (NLE) is a new category of small business in Thompson that was introduced in the 2020 overhaul of the Zoning Regulations. Thompson is home to over 400 small businesses, the vast majority of which are entrepreneurial “kitchen table” operations run out of the owners’ homes. As is common in many communities, Thompson’s Zoning Regulations have always had standards allowing for these Home Occupations; but those rules only accommodate for the very smallest businesses. The NLE created a slightly more expansive category to meet the needs of businesses ready to grow, while remaining compatible with operating in residential neighborhoods.
Why are we doing this? Since the introduction of the NLE concept to the Zoning Regulations, there have been very few test cases to show whether those new regulations were “right-sized” to meet their intent. In 2025 & 2026, certain businesses did try to apply under these regulations. Although the businesses were viewed very positively by the Planning and Zoning Commission and several members of the public, after consideration it was determined that they did not meet the standards for this new home business category. This workshop is an opportunity for members of the public to learn more about the NLE concept and then discuss their preferences and priorities for businesses which may take root in Thompson’s residential and agricultural districts. Click here to view the current NLE regulations.
Why do we need NLEs? Thompson has structural challenges to attracting small businesses. The physical inventory of storefront properties that existed during the mill era have largely been lost. While efforts are underway to rebuild the historic downtown, that process will take several years to fully play out. In the meantime, roughly 85% of Thompson is zoned “Rural Residential Agricultural,” but, as noted above, we are still home to many small entrepreneurs. Additionally, some business types may be particularly suited to rural areas but currently lack a legal framework to locate here. The NLE is intended to bridge those gaps.
Who will participate? All members of the public are welcome to attend and participate, but due to space limitations attendance is capped at 60. Please use the registration link to sign up.
How will this work? Following a brief presentation about NLEs and the questions residents may wish to consider, participants will break out into smaller discussion groups. Guidance materials to facilitate meaningful discussion will be provided. At the conclusion, each discussion group will share their observations and preferences. Results of the workshop will be summarized and given to the Planning & Zoning Commission, to inform their annual regulations review process.
Please register to attend by Monday, 29 June.
Questions? Please contact Tyra Penn-Gesek – planner@thompsonct.org or 860-923-9475