741 Colonel Ledyard Highway

Ledyard, Connecticut 06339-1551

(860) 464-3203

TOWN OF LEDYARD

Town Council

council@ledyardct.org

Meeting Minutes

Chairman S. Naomi

Rodriguez

Regular Meeting

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

7:00 PM

Town Hall Council Chambers

In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex

Remote: Information noted below:

Join Zoom Meeting from your Computer, Smart Phone or Tablet:

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Audio Only: Telephone: +1 646 558 8656; Meeting ID: 871 1697 6676; Passcode: 771293

CALL TO ORDER

Chairman Rodriguez called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers, Town

Hall Annex Building.

Chairman Rodriguez welcomed all to the Hybrid Meeting. She stated for the members of

the Town Council and the Public who were participating via video conference that the

remote meeting information was available on the Agenda that was posted on the Town’s

Website - Granicus-Legistar Meeting Portal.

II.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

III.

Councilor William Barnes

Councilor Jessica Buhle

Present:

Councilor Kevin Dombrowski

Chairperson S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Tim Ryan

Councilor Tony Saccone

Councilor Gary St. Vil

Councilor April Brunelle

Councilor Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

Excused:

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

RESIDENT & PROPERTY OWNERS (COMMENTS LIMITED TO THREE (3)

MINUTES

Mr. Eric Treaster, 10 Huntington Way, Ledyard, appealed to the Town Council to fill the

vacancies on the Board of Assessment Appeals, noting that the Board was comprised of

three Regular Members and one Alternate Member. However, he stated that currently the

Board only had two Regular Members; noting that the third Regular Member and the

Alternate Member positions were vacant. He stated in accordance with the Town Charter that

during a Revaluation Year that the Board of Assessment Appeals can have a total of three

Alternate Members. He noted that during Revaluation Years they receive a huge number of

appeals. He stated that having a full Board would be helpful.

Chairman Rodriguez thanked Mr. Treaster for his comments.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

VI.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Councilor Barnes stated that he wanted to mention that the Town’s Annual Budget

Referendum would be held next week. He encouraged residents to get out to the polls and

vote, whether they were in-favor or opposed to the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget. He stated

that the Town Council did their very best to put forward a product that was a fair assessment

for all residents to cast their opinion, noting although some might have wished the proposed

budget was higher and some might have wished the budget was lower. However, he stated

that the Town Council would only know how residents felt about the budget based on those

who go out to the polls and vote to make their opinions known.

Councilor Ryan stated that he would echo Councilor Barnes’ comments regarding the May

20, 2025 Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget Referendum. He noted the best tool the town had

was educated voters. Therefore, he stated that he would encourage anybody who does go out

to vote to also educate themselves on the facts of the budgets; both the Town Budget and the

Board of Education Budget. He also suggested residents look at where the proposed Fiscal

Year 2025/2026 Budget stands relative to previous years; and that they also look at the

budget through a lens of what the Town will be facing the following year (fy 26/27). He

noted the 2025 Revaluation and potential State Legislative decisions could greatly impact

Ledyard’s revenues. Therefore, he asked for residents to get out and vote; that they educate

themselves on the options; and to ask questions, noting they could reach out to any members

of the Town Council.

Councilor Buhle stated that she was going to also join her fellow Councilors and ask that

residents get out and vote on May 20, 2025, noting that the polls would be open on Tuesday

from 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. She stated that Absentee Ballots were available at the Town

Clerk’s Office. She continued by suggesting for anyone who was interested in learning more

about the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget that they could watch any of the videos or read the

minutes from all of the Budget Work Sessions that the Finance Committee held on March 6,

10, & 18, 2025 and also watch the Work Sessions that the Board of Education Finance

Committee held.

Councilor Buhle continued by noting that they all have opinions about the budget; and that

she would encourage all of those in town who disagree with each other to continue to remain

nice, especially on social media. She stated that she has seen this budget preparation become

contentious, noting that they all really love the town they live in, and there was no reason to

be mean to each other over disagreements on the internet.

Chairman Rodriguez announced the following upcoming events:

· Memorial Day Parade has been scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2025. She stated

unfortunately, she would not be able to attend the parade this year because she would be

attending her son’s College Graduation. She stated that she has been waiting for this

moment for a long time. She stated that eleven relatives would be joining her family for

the Graduation and that they would like to see New York.

Mayor Allyn, III, noted that the Memorial Day Parade would assemble at 12:30 at the

War Memorial in front of the Bill Library with some brief comments; and that the Parade

would kick off at 1:00 p.m.

· Yale-Harvard Regatta - Saturday, June 7, 2025

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the following Town Council Minutes:

Special Meeting Minutes of April 17, 2025

Public Hearing Minutes of April 21, 2025

Regular Meeting Minutes of April 23, 2025

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications List - May 14, 2025

Chairman Rodriguez stated a Communications List has been provided on the meeting portal

for tonight’s meeting, and she noted referrals were listed.

REFERALS

XI.

COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS

Administration Committee

Councilor Buhle stated the Administration Committee met earlier this evening with the

objective to focus on working on the draft “Ordinance Establishing an Ethics Commission

for

the Town of Ledyard”. She stated that she and Councilor Dombrowski both independently

reviewed the proposal that Councilor Garcia-Irizarry initially drafted. She stated that she and

Councilor Dombrowski reviewed each of their suggestions noting that they had a very

positive exchange and productive meeting. She stated that their proposed changes to the

draft Ordinance would be incorporated into one document for review at their June 11, 2025

meeting.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

No Report.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee held their Regular Meeting on May 7, 2025

and he noted the Committee had a number of items on tonight’s agenda which he would

discuss later this evening.

RESULT:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

Councilor St. Vil stated the LUPPW Committee met on May 5, 2025 and continued to

discuss the Historic Designation of the Spicer Homestead Ruins Property. He stated that the

Historic District Commission has a Plan to move forward with the initiative with some

support from Planning Director Elizabeth Burdick. He also noted that the Historic District

Commission Members discussed potentially meeting with Mayor Allyn, III, to talk about the

boundaries of the proposed Spicer Homestead Ruins.

RESULT:

Conservation Commission

Councilor Barnes stated the Conservation Commission received a sign from Ledge Light

Health District regarding “Care for Ticks”. He stated that the Conservation Commission felt

that the ticks were going to be a serious issue this year; and therefore, they were going to try

to get more signs with the intent to place them at public locations to remind people about

Tick Safety. He stated the Commission would also be looking to put out flyers, noting that

they discussed options to store the flyers in a weather protected place.

Ledyard Center Fire Department

Councilor Saccone reported that unfortunately there was a fire yesterday on Lambtown Road,

noting that it was a total loss. He stated because there were no fire hydrants that water had to

be brought in. He noted the Mutual Aide support they received from neighboring Fire

Companies which included Montville, Stonington, and others. He stated all the Fire

Departments, and their members did an excellent job, noting that there were no injuries. He

thanked all of the Emergency Responders for their work.

Ledyard Farmers’ Committee

Chairman Rodriguez stated that the Farmers Market would kick-off their 2025 Season on

June 4, 2025. She stated the Committee has been working hard to have everything ready. She

noted that Mayor Allyn, III, would Ring the Opening Bell and she encouraged residents to

come out and support the Farmers Market this summer.

Retirement Board

Chairman Rodriguez stated the Retirement Board would be meeting on May 20, 2025.

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

Councilor St. Vil noted the IWWC met on May 6, 2025 and have continued the Public

Hearing regarding the Application for 1920 & 1939 Military Highway, formerly Sweet Hill

Farm, to May 27, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

XIII

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Road Resurfacing & Paving - Mayor Allyn

stated the following work has been done: (a) Spot repairs on Christy Hill Road from

Oakwood Drive to Norman Drive; (b) Large patch job on Colonel Ledyard Highway from

Blonders Boluvard to Gallup Hill Road; (c) Milling and paving on Christy Hill Road from

Long Cove Road to Parkwood Drive; (d) Paving work at Thomas Road (Route 117 end) and

Thompson Street; (e ) Crack Sealing was scheduled to resume on Shewville Road from

Gallup Hill Road to Route 214; Colonel Ledyard Highway from Gallup Hill Road to Fairway

Drive; and Christy Hill Road from Oakwood Drive to Route 12. Mayor Allyn asked that

residents keep this road work in mind when traveling around town; (2) Ribbon Cutting -

Saturday, April 26, 2025 - Mayor Allyn stated that a Ribbon Cutting at FRAG's Retro Zone

LLC was held at 10:00 a.m. at 12 Military Highway, Gales Ferry. Mayor Allyn thanked the

Economic Development Commission and Councilor Buhle for attending the event. He stated

although the weather was rainy that FRAG’s set up a tent outside the business for the event.

He stated that FRAG was the Federation of Retro and Arcade Gaming, noting that they had a

standup model of Miss Pacman; Centipede, and other games. They would also have games

that you could buy and take home; (3) Connecticut Main Street Report Assessment - Mayor

Allyn stated the Reports were provided at the April 29, 2025 meeting. However, he stated in

reviewing Ledyard’s Report that he found a number of errors and some critical missing

information. Therefore, he stated after the meeting he met with the Group that prepared the

Reports, and he noted that Ledyard’s Report was being revised. He stated once he received

the final Report that he would share it with the Town Council and the Economic

Development Commission; (4) Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) Legislative

Meeting May 6, 2025 - Mayor Allyn reported on the following: (a) Fair Housing Bill, which

they call the Fair Share Bill, if approved would have a profound effect on Municipalities and

Zoning, because it would essentially override many Zoning Regulations if Municipalities do

not have what the State perceived to be Fair Share for Affordable Housing; (b) Public Act

24-46 “An Act Establishing a Property Tax Exemption for Veterans Who Have a

Service-Connected Permanent and Total Disability Rating” (Veterans Tax Exemption Bill) -

Mayor Allyn noted that the State Legislature passed the Bill and that they were expanding it

so that in addition to the dwelling that it would also include two-acres of the primary

property. He stated that Tax Assessor Adrianna Hedwall has reviewed 93 Veteran’s Tax

Exemption Applications, noting that only two or three of those property owners owned more

than two-acres. However, he stated that the Veterans Tax Exemption would have a huge

impact, noting the last report indicated that Ledyard would lose over $500,000 in tax

revenues; (c) (Summer) Camp Bill - Mayor Allyn stated the State Legislature heard the

Camp Bill yesterday that would require all the Camps to be licensed by the State and that

each camp would be required to have an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) on

site. He stated for a municipality such as Hartford that had 16 different campsites that they

would need to hire 16 APRNs for the 6 to 8 weeks of Summer Camp, noting that the Bill did

not only apply to Summer Camps Bill that it would also apply to Parks & Recreation

Programs such as Tennis Lessons, etc. He noted that the State House was packed with people

who were opposed to the Camp Bill stating that the proposed Bill would change the

affordability for families; especially when they were experiencing what they were calling a

Childcare Desert in our area. He stated that Summer Camp Programs have been an

affordable option for many middle-income families; (d) 1,400+ State Unfunded Mandates -

Mayor Allyn noted Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG) April 17,

2025 letter that he forwarded to the Town Council. He stated that eight SCCOG Town

Leaders would be meeting with some House and Senate Minority and Majority Leaders on

May 15, 2025 to discuss their concerns. He stated that he finds it fascinating that the State of

Connecticut has either the highest or the second highest surplus in State history; and yet they

continue to pat themselves on the back while they continue to pass more Unfunded Mandates

onto Municipalities; (5) Housing Needs Assessment - Mayor Allyn stated the Housing Needs

Assessment was presented to the Southeastern Connecticut of Council of Government

(SCCOG). He noted the Housing Needs Assessment indicated that there was a housing unit

shortage of 9,128 among the 20 SCCOG Member Towns, citing that this was primarily due

to the underproduction of housing in our area. He stated the increase in hiring at Electric

Boat-General Dynamics was a huge driver for the housing needs; and that they need to house

these people so they did not have to drive an hour each way to and from work; (6) Solid

Waste Management - Mayor Allyn stated that he was Chairing the Southeastern Connecticut

of Council of Government (SCCOG) Solid Waste Committee and he noted that they had Bus

Tour to visit the following facilities: (a) Lisbon Wheelabrator Waste To Energy Plant which

was a 15MW biopower facility. He stated the Claw Machine pulls up 2.5 tons of garbage

with each grab, and dumps it into the incinerator, noting that it was an amazing operation;

(b) Willimantic Municipal Recycling Facility where they collect and sort material to

repurpose waste that used to be buried in landfills; (c) Ledyard Blue Earth Organics Compost

Bins - Mayor Allyn stated that they visited Ledyard’s Transfer Station and discussed their

composting operations. He stated that he was sorry Councilor Garcia-Irizarry was not here

tonight; (7) 2025 Revaluation - Mayor Allyn stated that Vision Appraisal has been

continuing their work in town. He stated the preliminary data was showing that residential

values were up dramatically; and that commercial and industrial values were flat; which

would further impact their residential property taxes; (8) Small Town Economic Assistant

Program (STEAP) $1 Million Grant for the Ledyard Playscape Improvement Projects for the

following Town Parks: Town Green, Aljen Heights, Blonders Park, East Drive - Mayor

Allyn stated the State was supposed to announce the Grant Awards in early April, however,

he stated on April 3, 2025 he received an email stating that because of the overwhelming

response that the State would make announcements toward the end of April. However, he

stated they were midway through May, and he still has not heard from the State about

Ledyard’s $1 million Grant Application; (9) Linda C. Davis Food Pantry- Beef Donation -

Mayor Allyn thanked the Ledyard Rotary and the High School Agri-Science Program for

once again raising 2 steer calves, that produced 829 pounds of beef for the Food Pantry. He

stated the beef was butchered and wrapped in one-pound packages. He stated that they

greatly appreciated their generosity and work, noting that the Food Pantry just ran out of the

beef they received last year from the Rotary and the Agri-Science Program, noting that the

beef would provide a great benefit to their community.

Chairman Rodriguez stated the Ledyard Prevention Coalition held a Drug Take Back Day on

April 26, 2025. She stated because it was pouring rain that day they moved into the Police

Department Lobby. She stated despite the bad weather that a lot of people came out and they

collected 70 pounds of unused prescription drugs, stating that it was good to get those drugs

off the streets and keep them out of their waterways.

Questions to the Mayor

Councilor Ryan noted the proposed Camp Bill #2025-06 and he questioned who was

supporting the Bill; and whether the Mayor or their Parks & Recreation Director was able to

attend the Hearing in Hartford yesterday. Mayor Allyn, III, stated that neither he or Parks &

Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr., were able to attend the Hearing.

However, he stated that Mr. Johnson’s counterpart from Preston was able to attend the

Hearing and that he was vocal. Mayor Allyn stated in speaking to New London, New Haven

and Preston they all recognize that the Licensing and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse

(APRN) requirements were going to be a very big burden, especially at a time when they had

serious shortage of nurses in general. He noted that he was just reading through the 38-pages

regarding the Licensing Requirements.

Mayor Allyn continued by addressing Councilor Ryan’s question about who was pushing the

Camp Bill noting that he did not know. However, he stated in looking through the State

Legislature’s Votes that they were party-line; with the exception of Senator Cathy Osten. He

stated that he thanked Senator Osten for her vote against the Bill, noting that because the

Senator was from Eastern Connecticut she recognized that the Camp Bill would be a huge

cost for small towns.

Councilor Buhle addressed Bill #2025-06 Camp Bill stating that she found it interesting that

they were requiring the Camps to have an APRN on site, especially when their School

Nurses were not APRNs. She noted that the School Nurses would probably be the ones to

take the Summer Camp positions; however, she stated that they would not be qualified. She

stated between the cost for Licensing and the APRN’s that it would eliminate affordable

Summer Camp options for many families. She stated that the proposed Camp Bill would also

make the more expensive camps or overnight camps unaffordable. She stated instead of an

overnight camp costing $700 it could now cost $1,200. She stated that she would agree with

Councilor Ryan in asking who wanted the Camp Bill; and she questioned if something

happened that cause them to proposed the Bill.

Parks, Recreation, & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr., explained that there was an

incident in Bethany where children were being sexually assaulted. However, he stated the

Camp Bill Licensing and APRN Requirements would not have changed that situation at all;

explaining that the Bethany Board of Education had done a background check and the

individual was fingerprinted. He stated when initial complaints were brought to the town that

the Police Chief and First Selectman essentially looked the other way; and allowed the

individual to work and continue to essentially sexually assault the children.

Councilor Dombrowski asked how having APRNs at the Camp Sites would have changed

the incident that happened in Bethany. Mr. Johnson stated that the background check,

licensing and APRN requirements that the Camp Bill would implement would not have

made a difference. He went on to explain that currently Summer Camps were License

Exempt; explaining that the proposed Camp Bill was trying to make the Summer Camps

have the same requirements as a Daycare facility; which would involve having a certain

number of toilet seats for the campers, a certain number of hand washing stations to toilets

based on some sort of ratio; water testing, and other things. He stated if the Summer Camp

Programs did not meet the requirements that they would not be allowed to serve the

community with the Summer Day Camps.

Councilor Barnes questioned whether the Public Act 24-46 “An Act Establishing a Property

Tax Exemption for Veterans Who Have a Service-Connected Permanent and Total Disability

Rating” (Veteran Disability Tax Exemption Bill) was approved. Mayor Allyn stated that the

State Legislature approved the Bill and that the Tax Assessor has recalculated the impact on

the town’s tax revenues. He also stated that the Veterans Tax Exemption Bill was made

retroactive to last October, 2024, noting that it would now impact the previous fiscal year.

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

Councilor Barnes addressed the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget Advisory Questions. He

stated he asked Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher to send him a copy of the

Questions that would appear on the May 20, 2025 Referendum. He stated the Advisory

Questions on Sample Ballot that was posted on the town website had been changed.

Therefore, he stated that he was curious if anyone had any insight into what prompted the

change. He noted for reference the Advisory Questions were submitted by himself, Councilor

Dombrowski, Board of Education Member Earl (Ty) Lamb and Mayor Allyn. He stated to

ensure that they were in compliance with the Town Charter that the Mayor had asked the

Town Attorney to review the Questions.

Chairman Rodriguez stated that the Advisory Questions were not in-par with the Town

Charter, so the Town Attorney took a look at the Questions and that he spoke to the Town

Clerk and that they made some changes. She stated the only one who could make changes to

the Advisory Questions was the Town Clerk. She stated that the Town Clerk’s email was

sent to everybody stating that this was how the Advisory Questions were going to look.

Councilor Dombrowski and Councilor Barnes stated they did not receive the Town Clerk’s

email. Chairman Rodriguez stated that she thought the email was sent to everyone.

Councilor Dombrowski stated a properly noticed Advisory Question was submitted by the

Mayor and it was supported by three other Elected Officials, noting that the language of the

Advisory Questions had already been approved by the Town Attorney prior to the

submission to the Town Clerk. Therefore, he questioned Why and How the Advisory

Questions would change from the time it was submitted to the Town Clerk to what was

presented on the Sample Ballot. He also questioned what avenue in the Town Charter or

State Statute allowed for a change to a valid question, that was properly submitted.

Chairman Rodriguez stated according to the Town Attorney, he said that he did not see the

Advisory Questions.

Councilor Buhle stated in searching her current email inbox that she had the following

emails that were sent to the Town Council Group email:

March 27, 2025

“Submission of Advisory Questions” from Town Clerk, Patricia Riley that stated: “ Dear

Town Council,

I am writing to provide four letters that have been submitted to the Town Clerk’s Office in

accordance with Chapter 7, Section 7 of the Town Charter. These letters, written by elected

town officers, propose advisory questions to be included on the ballot for the upcoming

budget referendum scheduled for May 20, 2025. Should you have any questions or require

additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out. Sincerely, Patricia Riley”

April 1, 2025

“Submission of Advisory Questions: Hi, Roxanne, Please see the below legal opinion from

our town attorney regarding placing advisory questions on budget referendums. Please let

me know if you have any questions. Thanks, Patty

Patty - per our conversation and in line with past practice, the Town Council should

formally acknowledge any letters or petitions that were submitted to the Town Clerk

requesting an advisory question in accordance with Chapter 7, Section 7 of the Town

Charter. However, the Town Council does not need to vote to place these questions on the

ballot.

However, if there are subsequent budget referendums, only the Town Council may place

advisory questions on the ballot. Thanks, Matt Ritter, Shipman & Goodwin LLP

Partner.”

April 4, 2025

“Subject: Submission of Amended Advisory Questions for May 2025 Budget Referendum:

Dear Roxanne, I am writing to provide the attached amended advisory questions to be

included on the ballot for the upcoming budget referendum scheduled for May 20, 2025.

Should you have any questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to

reach out. Sincerely, Patricia Riley”.

Councilor Dombrowski questioned whether the Town Clerk on her own accord changed the

Advisory Questions without discussing it with anyone. Chairman Rodriguez stated in

accordance with the Town Charter that the only one who could change the Advisory

Questions was the Town Clerk. Mayor Allyn stated who asked the Town Attorney to review

the Advisory Questions. Chairman Rodriguez stated that she talked with the Town Attorney

to see if he saw the Advisory Questions; and that he said that he did not.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that the question was “Who asked the Town Clerk to

investigate changing the Advisory Questions”. Chairman Rodriguez stated that it must have

been the Town Attorney because she did not ask the Town Clerk to change the questions.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that he would like to see that correspondence.

Mayor Allyn stated that he would provide the 12:45 p.m. February 12, 2025 email from

Attorney Matt Ritter to him in which he talked about the Advisory Questions that he had

proposed. He noted that Attorney Ritter said that he would not suggest using the language

provided in Section 7-344 of the Connecticut General Statutes. He stated in his email

Attorney Ritter questioned whether he (the Mayor) was comfortable with saying “Too High

or Too Low?” and that he responded “Yes, I think we can accomplish that goal with these

questions, as provided”, and that he would provide the changes to the Town Clerk for her

review to move them ahead. Therefore, he stated that after the Advisory Questions had been

reviewed by the Town Attorney and the Town Clerk, that he also did not understand why the

wording of the Advisory Questions was changed again.

Chairman Rodriguez stated they would move on to New Business.

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

Finance Committee

MOTION to approve appropriations from the receipt of sales of vehicles and equipment through

GovDeals in the total amount of $27,225 as follows:

• $22,200 to the Public Works Heavy Equipment CNR Account 21040101-57311;

• $2,525 to the Public Works Pooled Vehicle CNR Account 21040101-57315;

• $1,300 to the Gales Ferry Fire Company CNR Account 21020551-57300; and

• $1,200 to the Nathan Lester House Donations Account 20810201-54203-24203.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, stated the town held another GovDeals on-line auction noting that the

following items were sold:

Large Roadside Mower $8,000 - Mayor Allyn stated that the mower had a lot of hours on it.

He stated the $8,000 also included some other surplus equipment.

Honda Civic $2,525 that was in the Town’s Pooled Vehicles - Mayor Allyn stated

that the vehicle had some transmission issues.

Gales Ferry Fire Department $1,300 for surplus equipment.

Nathan Lester House - $1,200 Lawn Tractor

Mayor Allyn explained the funding from the sale of the surplus equipment would go back to their

respective accounts to be used to purchase equipment in the future.

Councilor Saccone provided some additional information regarding the sale of the Gales Ferry Fire

Department’s surplus equipment. He explained that the Fire Department had an operating budget

provided in the town’s budget. He stated when surplus equipment was sold that because it was

town property the funds would not go back to the Fire Department’s operating budget.

VOTE

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to authorize a bid waiver for Willimantic Waste Paper Co., Inc. (Casella) for Bid No.

2025-08 (Oversized Bulky Waste Removal) due to lack of three bids, in accordance with

Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1) “An Ordinance for Purchasing”.

Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Mayor Allyn explained that the Town solicits Bids for Bulky Waste Removal Services

at the Transfer Station every two (2) years. He stated again this time the town only received two

bids, noting that the last several times they went out to bid for Bulky Waste Services they did not

receive the required three bids. He stated that Willimantic Waste Paper Co., Inc. (formerly Casella)

was the low bidder versus CWPM over the 2-year contract period.

Mayor Allyn went on to note that the Bids were as follows: Willimantic Waste $166,680; and

CWPM $168,000, noting that with this Bid that they had the reverse of what happened with

Curbside Collection Contract.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tim Ryan

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to approve a water rate increase of 4% to become effective on July 1, 2025 as

recommended by the WPCA and contained in the water and sewer rate table presented at the

WPCA April 22, 2025 Public Hearing; in accordance with Ordinance #400-001 “An Ordinance

Creating a Water Pollution Control Authority for the Town of Ledyard”.

Discussion: Councilor Saccone noted that Water Pollution Control Authority Chairman Ed Lynch

attended the Town Council’s April 9, 2025 meeting to provide an overview of the Water Operations

proposed Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget, which included the need for the 4% water rate increase. He

stated the WPCA held a Public Hearing on April 22, 2025 to present the increase to their ratepayers.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTON to grant a Bid Waiver to Land Care & Design, LLC., of Ledyard, Connecticut, due to

receiving fewer than the required three bids in response to Bid #2025-06 (Routine Maintenance

for Parks & Recreation Facilities), in accordance with Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1) “An

Ordinance for Purchasing”

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr., stated in response to

Bid #2025-06 (Routine Maintenance for Parks & Recreation Facilities), the town only received

one bid. He stated that Landcare & Design, LLC., was their current contractor, noting that he has

been providing services to Ledyard for about forty-years, and that he does a good job. He stated

that the contract did increase, noting that since their last bid from six-years ago, that the cost of

goods have increased. He stated the term of the contract was four-years with 2 one-year option

years.

Councilor Ryan questioned whether the bid came in under budget. Mr. Johnson stated for these

services the budget was correct. However, he noted the Grass Cutting Bid was scheduled to close

on Monday, May 19, 2025 and that they would see how those bids come in.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to grant a Bid Waiver to M&M Hydroseeding, LLC, of Griswold, Connecticut, due to

receiving fewer than the required three bids in response to Bid #2025-07 (Turf Management for

Parks & Recreation Facilities), in accordance with Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1) “An Ordinance

for Purchasing.”

Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr., explained in response

to Bid #2025-07 (Turf Management for Parks & Recreation Facilities) the town did not receive

the required three bids. Therefore, he stated that a bid waiver has been requested. He stated in

reviewing proposal received and comparing it to the previous year’s contract that the cost did not

significantly increase; especially with the addition of providing loam and the top dressing, noting

that the cost of seed and other materials were also going up.

Mr. Johnson went on to explain that because this work was a specialty area, they felt that they

would not receive any additional bids if they went out to bid a second time, therefore, he stated

the bid waiver has been requested. He stated this work was not like lawn cutting where they

would receive a number of bids. He stated the term of the contract was four-years with 2

one-year option years.

VOTE:

7- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tim Ryan

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to grant a Bid Waiver to Colliers Project Leaders not to exceed $110,000 due to

receiving fewer than the required three bids in response to Bid #24-8 (Juliet Long HVAC

Installation Owner’s Representative Services), in accordance with Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1)

“An Ordinance for Purchasing”.

Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Mr. Joe Gush, 57 Town Farm Road, Ledyard, Chairman, Permanent Municipal Building

Committee, stated that the Juliet W. Long School Heating Ventilation Air Condition System

(HVAC) Project has been in the works for quite some time. He stated in response to Bid #24-8

(Juliet Long HVAC Installation Owner’s Representative Services) that the town only received

two bids. He stated although the PMBC interviewed both of the Bidders that after learning that one

of Bidders was involved in bribery scheme on a full construction project; the Permanent

Municipal Building Committee rejected the bid, which left them with only one bid remaining.

Mr. Gush went on to explain that Colliers Project Leaders had done work for the town in the past

and that they were pleased with their work. He stated at their May 5, 2025 meeting the Permanent

Municipal Building Committee (PMBC) selected Colliers Project Leaders. He stated

because three bids were not received that the PMBC has requested a bid waiver in accordance

with Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1) “An Ordinance for Purchasing.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to transfer tax accounts in the amount of $88,887.98 listed in the report dated April

22, 2025, to the “Suspense File”

In addition, authorize the transfer of non-refundable over payments in the amount of $120.92 to

the general fund listed in the report dated April 23, 2025.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Councilor Saccone explained as part of the town’s year-end housekeeping the Tax

Collector presents a list of accounts classified as “Uncollectable” to be transferred to the “Suspense

List”. He stated that this action would remove the taxes from an active status to a non-active status.

However, he stated that the accounts that were being transferred would remain on the tax roll and

would be flagged as a “Suspense Item”. He stated that except for bankruptcy or deceased, the

remaining tax bills would be sent to a Collection Agency and would remain on the tax rolls for

fifteen years from their due date. He stated that this year’s “Suspense File” was $20,139.44 higher

than last year (FY 23/24) noting the Suspense File was in the amount of $68,748.54.

Councilor Saccone went on to note that about two-weeks ago the Tax Collector’s Office received

a $17,000 check from the Collection Agency, for taxes were due in 2010. He went on to state that

the town does not pay for the Collection Agency’s service, noting that the Collection Agency would

receive its payment for services from the person that owed the taxes.

Councilor Saccone continued by addressing the transfer of Overpayments, explaining that per State

Statute section 12-129 and Town of Ledyard Ordinance #200-002 that “over payments under $5.00

shall be transferred to the general fund” He stated for the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 the over payment

amount that would be transferred to the General Fund was in the amount of $120.92. He stated as

the Town Council was aware, that all other over payments were reimbursed to the property owner or

lender, based on who made the over payment.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Barnes, Buhle, Dombrowski, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil

Brunelle, and Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

EXCUSED:

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Buhle moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski.

V7 O- 0TAEp: proved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 7:43 p.m.

_____________________________________

Transcribed by Roxanne M. Maher

Administrative Assistant to the Town Council

I, S. Naomi Rodriguez, Chairman of the Ledyard Town Council,

hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and

correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Town Council

Meeting held on May 14, 2025.

____________________________________

S. Naomi Rodriguez, Chairman

DISCLAIMER:

Although we try to be timely and accurate these are not official records of the Town.

The Town Council's Official Agenda and final Minutes will be on file in the Town Clerk's

Office.