Stonington - Back in the 1990s, the town developed a reputation of making it difficult for people to get zoning approvals for projects both large and small.

Developers and residents, frustrated with red tape and the town's lack of economic development, nicknamed the town "Zonington."

And the name stuck.

But the name faded as the town approved large projects such as the Stop & Shop complex on Route 2, StoneRidge and some mill renovations.

But the "Zonington" moniker is making a comeback with some recent zoning decisions and now a Monday Facebook posting by First Selectman Ed Haberek, who criticized the Planning and Zoning Commission's rejection of a modification sought by the developer of the former Mystic Color Lab site.

"Another lost opportunity as PZC denies a great project and $200,000 in new revenue for our schools and town. Now the developers leave and put the property back up for sale. Back to Zonington," wrote Haberek, who, along with other members of the Board of Selectmen, appointed the current members of the PZC.

Last week, The Day reported that the owner of the Mystic Color Lab property had placed an advertisement seeking a buyer for the 5.5-acre waterfront property.

Edgewood Capital of Southport had placed a for-sale advertisement stating that the property has PZC approval for a 55-unit luxury condominium project. It states that site engineering is complete and rough grading, drainage and utilities are in place.

Edgewood sought approval for modifications it said would make the project more attractive and marketable but the commission this fall rejected the application after a group of neighbors opposed the changes. Edgewood has appealed the denial.

j.wojtas@theday.com

Twitter: @joewojtas