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, August 14, 2024  
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:  
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83542659979?pwd=9SOwSpoafANwAw9mfjzqvAY1nmrvDB.1  
Audio Only: Telephone: +1 646 558 8656; Meeting ID: 835 4265 9979; Passcode: 294749  
CALL TO ORDER  
I.  
IC.hairman Rodriguez called the meeting to order at 7:06 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 April Brunelle  
Councilor Jessica Buhle  
Councilor Kevin Dombrowski  
Councilor Gary Paul  
Present:  
Chairman S. Naomi Rodriguez  
Councilor Tim Ryan  
Councilor Tony Saccone  
Councilor Gary St. Vil  
Councilor Carmen Garcia-Irizarry  
Excused:  
IV.  
PRESENTATIONS  
None.  
V.  
RESIDENT & PROPERTY OWNERS (COMMENTS LIMITED TO THREE (3)  
MINUTES  
Ms. Anne Roberts-Pierson, 4 Anderson Drive, Gales Ferry, thanked the members serving on  
the Town Council, noting that they all know that it was a tremendous job and that they  
appreciated it. She stated that she was present this evening to provide an update regarding  
her July 16, 2024 letter to the Town Planner on which the Town Council was copied (cc’d).  
She stated in her letter she had a lengthy request for the town to hire Experts for the third  
iteration of the Gales Ferry Intermodal (GFI) Quarry Application; and that the Town Council  
also received a slew of letters from other residents on the same topic around that same time.  
She stated since then that she has repeatedly asked the same question. She stated that she  
received a response from Town Planner Elizabeth Burdick today, and that she wanted to  
share Ms. Burdick’s response with the Town Council. Ms. Roberts-Pierson read the  
following:  
“Good Afternoon, this Office is making progress in retaining various experts for an  
Independent Review of Application 24-8-SUP-24-9CAN with GFI, LLC; as submitted. I will  
post the Staff Report updating my progress soon.”  
Ms. Roberts-Pierson stated that although she was pleased to hear that progress was being  
made, that it was now August 14, 2024, and a month later.. She stated in response to her  
question about where she should look for the Staff Report, Ms. Burdick stated that the  
Report would be included on the Application Exhibit List, on the meeting portal. Ms.  
Roberts-Pierson stated that she hoped Ms. Burdick would provide her Staff Report by  
Monday, August 19; or Tuesday, August 20, 2024.  
Ms. Roberts-Pierson stated the first Public Hearing for the third iteration of the Gales Ferry  
Intermodal (GFI) Quarry Application would be held on September 12, 2024. She stated that  
she was glad to hear that progress has been made. However, she stated that she was looking  
forward to hearing that Experts have been retained, and which ones they were, and that they  
had the Application in their hands and were working on them.  
Ms. Roberts-Pierson noted the Town Council July 24, 2024 Draft Minutes and that she  
hoped to receive clarification regarding a statement Councilor St. Vil made during his  
Planning & Zoning Commission Liaison Report. She noted that she did not want to think ill  
of the statement; or ill of Councilor St. Vil, without offering him a chance clarify the  
following statement:  
“He stated our resources, (Ms. Roberts-Pierson stated meaning the Land Use Office) were  
going to get overwhelmed by the community; and therefore, he questioned how the Town  
could support the Land Use Department”.  
Ms. Roberts-Pierson stated that she was glad Councilor St. Vil asked that question, however,  
she asked if Councilor St. Vil could expand upon how the Land Use Office’s resources were  
going to get overwhelmed by the community.  
Chairman Rodriguez noted that Ms. Roberts-Pierson’s time was up, and she asked if she  
would mind if Councilor St. Vil sent her a letter. Ms. Roberts-Pierson noted that the Town  
Council had her email address from her July 16, 2024 correspondence; and she thanked  
Councilor St. Vil.  
Mr. Kevin Davis, 7 Ramblewood Drive, Gales Ferry, stated he was present this evening to  
obtain clarification regarding the following question:  
Zoning Regulations - Mr. Davis questioned if the Zoning Regulations have changed in the  
Military Highway area to allow for the construction of buildings taller than thirty-five-feet to  
include a 350-unit Apartment Complex; or whether this was being considered, and whether a  
Wastewater Treatment Facility was being considered in that general area of Gales Ferry or  
Gales Ferry District?  
Councilor Dombrowski replied to Mr. Davis stating that the Town Council had nothing to do  
with Zoning, noting that they would have neither the expertise nor the knowledge to answer  
his question. Councilor Ryan suggested Mr. Davis attend the next Planning & Zoning  
Commission meeting. Mr. Davis replied, stating that the response was fair.  
Mr. Davis continued by stating that he was interested in knowing, in writing, what their  
thoughts would be as members of the Town Council, pertaining to the rezoning of that  
location, for those purposes.  
Councilor Dombrowski stated per State Statute members of the Town Council can have no  
influence, or comment on zoning matters. Mr. Davis stated that he would like to know their  
personal opinions pertaining to the establishment of 350 housing units in that area and a  
wastewater treatment facility in that area, so that the town would have a better understanding  
of what the Town Council believes of that establishment. He stated that he would also like to  
understand if the Town Council has been approached regarding any of following things  
pertaining to that potential project: traffic, safety, parks, green areas, schools, additional  
congestion, ability to access affordable groceries that were not from a Dollar Store, and  
safety along Route 12. He stated 350 housing units would have 500 cars, and 1,000 people,  
noting that it sounded dangerous for kids to be in that area and crossing any of those roads.  
He stated that he looked forward to hearing from the members of the Town Council about  
their personal opinions. Thank you.  
Chairman Rodriguez thanked the residents for their comments.  
VI.  
COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS  
None.  
VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS  
Chairman Rodriguez announced that the Ledyard Senior Citizens Center was having a Prom  
on Friday, September 13, 2024, noting that Tickets were On-Sale for $10.00.  
Councilor Brunelle stated that she was happy they were getting to the end of August, noting  
it was an exciting time for the children who were getting ready to go back to school. She  
encouraged them to enjoy the next couple of weeks of their summer vacation.  
Councilor Brunelle continued by stating that members of the Town Council may have  
opinions on many things that they cannot say, because they want to perform their roles as  
professionally and honestly as they can. She stated as elected officials that there were many  
times when they cannot express their personal opinions, because they were not here for their  
own personal lives, they were here to serve the community. Therefore, she stated that there  
were times when they cannot speak their minds, stating that it was not because they do not  
care, and it was not because they do not feel things, it was because they were here to serve  
the community. She concluded by stating that the Town Council was listening, so keep  
talking.  
Councilor Ryan stated while he was at the Farmers Market earlier this evening he talked with  
Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr. Councilor Ryan noted that  
his daughters participated in the Summer Camp Program, noting that the Program was  
expertly run. He stated this year they added a seventh week, which helped parents. He stated  
that Mr. Johnson and his Team put together an amazing Program every year, and that all the  
kids come away smiling. He stated it was an incredible Program for a reasonable price, and  
he thanked Mr. Johnson and his Team.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated that she attended a meeting this morning at the Parks, Recreation  
& Senior Citizens Center Facility, noting that all the Staff were there and actively  
participating in planning the Senior’s Prom. She stated they wanted this event to be special  
for the Seniors. She gave kudos to the Staff at the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens  
Department.  
Councilor Saccone stated he recently visited the State of Alaska, noting that the sites and  
resources were amazing. He stated as citizens of the United States of America that we all  
own the 6.2-million-acre Denali National Park. He stated many people like to visit other  
countries, including himself, however, he stated the opportunity to visit other states in our  
own country was incredible, and he urged folks to visit our country including Alaska, noting  
that it was well worth it.  
Councilor Buhle noted Councilor Ryan’s comments regarding the Parks & Recreation  
Department; and she stated that she also wanted to give a full hearted Thank You to the Parks  
& Recreation Department. She stated this year the Department added Adults to provide  
Behavioral Support beyond the teenage Counselors at their Summer Camp Program. She  
stated this was exceptionally wonderful for a family who may have a child with special needs  
and required additional behavioral support, which was not provided outside of the school  
year. She noted her son absolutely loved Summer Camp and that he was disappointed that it  
was now over.  
Councilor Buhle went on to report at their April 10, 2024 meeting the Town Council  
authorized the Mayor to submit a COPS Law Enforcement Technology and Equipment Grant in  
the amount of up-to $240,000 through the Congressionally Directed Spending initiative, to  
replace the Ledyard Dispatch Emergency Communications CAD/RMS System. She stated that  
Congressman Courtney’s Office notified the town that Ledyard’s Application has passed  
through the Appropriations Committee and that it had one more step to obtain final approval.  
She stated obtaining this Grant Funding would be a huge help because it would remove this  
much needed equipment upgrade from the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).  
Councilor St. Vil stated as the Town Council Liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission  
and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission that he has attended a few  
passionate meetings over the last few weeks. He stated that he appreciated the Rules of  
Decorum that were posted in the Council Chambers, and in the Annex Meeting Room,  
noting that they were an appropriate reminder during a time of passion. He stated although  
he thought passion was good, that debate and discussion was better, noting that was how  
they collectively raise the bar in their community for the better. He stated that Groton issued  
Rules for Decorum, however, he stated that he did not think that Ledyard would need to do  
something similar. He stated prior to the start of the Planning & Zoning Commission’s  
August 8, 2024 meeting Chairman Capon reminded everyone what was appropriate in Town  
Hall, and in the forum of their meetings in the Council Chambers. Councilor St. Vil stated  
that he thought it was a good reminder.  
VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES  
MOTION to approve the following Town Council Minutes :  
·
·
Special Meeting Minutes of July 24, 2024  
Regular Meeting Minutes of July 24, 2024  
Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 - Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
RESULT:  
IX.  
X.  
COMMUNICATIONS  
Communications Listing For August 14, 2024  
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  
1.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated Councilor Garcia-Irizarry was visiting family in Puerto Rico, where  
they were having a hurricane.  
.
RESULT:  
Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion  
2.  
Councilor Brunelle stated the Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity &  
Inclusion has not met since the last Town Council meeting. She noted the Committee’s next  
meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, August 21, 2024.  
.
RESULT:  
Finance Committee  
3.  
4.  
Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee met earlier this evening and they have  
a number of items on tonight’s agenda.  
.
RESULT:  
Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee  
Councilor St. Vil stated the LUPPW Committee met on August 5, 2024, and they  
discussed items related to Blight Properties in town. He stated those items, where  
necessary, were elevated to the Planning Director.  
.
RESULT:  
Conservation Commission  
5.  
Councilor Paul stated the Conservation Commission met on August 13, 2024, and  
discussed the following: (1) Avalonia Land Conservancy was awarded a Grant to  
purchase the Rowling Property on Stoddards Wharf Road. The property would be  
preserved as Open Space; and (2) Continued to work on the draft Regional Open Space  
Plan from Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG).  
.
RESULT:  
Housing Authority  
6.  
Councilor Paul stated the Ledyard Housing Authority met on August 5, 2024, and  
addressed the following: (1) Rules & Regulations for the 2025 Leases; (2) Contentious  
Issues - Councilor Paul noted earlier this year there had been some contentious issues at  
the Kings Corner Manor. However, he stated the Tenant Member of the Housing  
Authority commented that since the improvements/renovation work has been  
completed, and through meetings, that the community was coming together. He noted  
that the tenants were smiling and talking to each other again. He stated a lot of work was  
done to the Apartments, noting that Director Colleen Lauer did a great job managing the  
project with the grant funding they received. He stated the Kings Corner Manor Senior  
Citizens Housing Facility looked great and he encouraged folks to stop by. He stated the  
Board had a good, short meeting.  
.
RESULT:  
Gales Ferry Fire Department  
7.  
Councilor Saccone stated the Gales Ferry Fire Department’s generator was out of  
service. He stated they were currently renting an emergency backup generator at a cost  
of $1,300 per month, noting that the Fire Station served as a Cooling Center and  
Heating Center when the area loses power. He stated the Fire Department was working  
to consider how to address replacing the generator, which would cost about $100,000.  
He stated the Fire Chief had requested funding in the Department’s Fiscal Year  
2024/2025 Budget to replace the generator.  
.
RESULT:  
Retirement Board  
8.  
9.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated the Retirement Board would be meeting on Tuesday, August  
20, 2024.  
.
RESULT:  
Ledyard Farmers’ Committee  
Chairman Rodriguez stated the Farmers Market Committee met on August 12, 2024,  
and went into executive session. She noted the Farmers Market was being held on  
Wednesdays from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Lower Town Green, noting that it was a lot of  
fun; and she encouraged residents who have not yet visited the Farmers Market to stop  
by.  
.
RESULT:  
Chairman Rodriguez noted in her absence that Councilor Garcia-Irizarry provided two  
Liaison Reports, and she asked Councilor Buhle to read the Reports this evening.  
Library Commission  
10.  
Councilor Buhle read the following report:  
The Library Commission canceled their August 19, 2024 meeting. She stated their next  
meeting was scheduled for September 16, 2024.  
.
RESULT:  
Board of Education  
11.  
Councilor Buhle read the following report:  
The Board of Education met on August 13, 2024, and that while everything discussed  
during the meeting was important that items #5 & #6 noted in bold italic font were  
especially noteworthy: (1) Chromebooks - Starting this School Year the Sixth Grade  
Students will not be receiving Chromebooks. Students would now begin to receive the  
Chromebooks in Seventh Grade. One of the reasons for this change was because there was  
significant physical damage to the Chromebooks that were being used by the sixth-grade  
students. Also, the New Policy took into consideration the parents feedback regarding the  
use of technology by the students; (2) New Committee Assignments - The Board of  
Education made some New Assignments to include Ms. DiPalma-Herb who was recently  
appointed to fill the vacancy left by Mr. Rode; (3) Juliet W. Long School Heating  
Ventilation & Air Condition (HVAC) Replacement - The Permanent Municipal Building  
Committee (PMBC) approved the Plans for the Juliet W. Long School HVAC project. The  
Plans need to be approved by the State before the PMBC could solicit Bids for contractors;  
(4) Reduced Lunch Program - Students who qualify for the reduced lunch program would  
get free breakfast and lunch during the school year; (5) New Proposed Housing  
Developments & Potential Impact on Schools - Their Agenda included a discussion  
regarding the impact that the new proposed housing developments would have on the  
schools. During the meeting, it was mentioned that several hundred units were proposed  
for Ledyard Center by the person that purchased the Ledyard Center School building. In  
addition, 120-units were expected to be constructed behind the Holdridge’s Property; and  
that 350-units (this number was mentioned during the meeting) in Gales Ferry (Sweet  
Hill Farm property). During the meeting, Superintendent of Schools Mr. Hartling  
mentioned the number of students enrolled in Ledyard Public Schools (LPS) that reside  
in Fox Run Apartments, Pheasant Run Apartments, and Lakeside Apartments. The  
Board of Education was concerned about the influx of new students that could result  
from these housing developments. One Board Member mentioned that she attended the  
last Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting and that during the meeting the overall  
message was that the schools have a responsibility to absorb the new student population  
from those projects. While the BOE was aware of this, there were several concerns such  
as space. It was noted that space in Ledyard’s School Facilities, with the present  
enrollment, was very limited at the Gallup Hill School and Ledyard Middle School. Also,  
additional services and staff would be needed and right now Ledyard was one of the  
lowest Per Pupil funded School Districts. This would increase the school budget. The  
Board of Education agreed that a study needed to be done to understand what the impact  
from these housing developments would put on the schools and/or the Town Council  
should do a study to determine the impact, not just on the schools, but on all town  
services; (6) Additional Impact Aid and ASTE Funding Received for Fiscal Year  
2023/2024 - The Board of Education discussed Town Council Chairman Rodriguez’s  
July 30, 2024 letter regarding the additional funding and its intended use. There was  
quite a bit of discussion as the Board of Education mentioned that the use of the funding  
falls under the Board of Education’s responsibility and that it should not be under the  
Town Council’s responsibility. Board of Education Chairman Anthony Favry mentioned  
that while this was the first time they have received a letter such as this one, that it was  
under the Town Council purview to make such a request. Board members asked what  
would happen if a higher priority item suddenly made the top of the list and it was not  
one of the projects mentioned in Chairman Rodriguez’s letter. The Board of Education  
considered the following options: (a) Not to take any action and wait to receive a mandate  
from the Town Council; or (b) Send a letter to the Town Council with the details of what  
they would use the money for. The Board of Education approved a motion to include the  
word “use” and not “committed” regarding how the funds would be used. After the  
Board of Education’s meeting, Chairman Favry sent an email to Chairman Rodriguez  
with the specifics of how the Board of Education intended to use the additional money.  
Councilor Buhle continued to read the report in which Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted that  
after the Board of Education’s meeting, she sent an email to the Board of Education, in  
which she copied (cc’d) the Town Council, to provide clarification regarding the additional  
revenues that were received for Fiscal Year 2023/2024; and to mention that the Finance  
Committee included a discussion regarding the additional ASTE Funding and Impact Aid  
funding on their August 14, 2024 Agenda.  
.
RESULT:  
Ledyard Center Fire Department  
12.  
Councilor Saccone stated three new members joined the Ledyard Center Fire Department  
last month. He noted that the new members were Ledyard residents, which was good for the  
Department because they would be staying in-town. He explained the reason he mentioned  
that the new members were Ledyard residents, was because the Gales Ferry Fire Department  
often has members who were active-duty members from the subbase, which was super.  
However, he stated they lose their Navy volunteers when they were transferred to a new  
assignment.  
.
RESULT:  
Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission  
13.  
Councilor St. Vil stated the IWWC met on August 6, 2024, and addressed the Military  
Highway (Sweet Hill Farm Property) Application. He stated the IWWC scheduled a Site  
Walk of the Property to be held on August 24, 2024; and he noted that a Public Hearing  
would be scheduled at a later date.  
.
RESULT:  
Planning & Zoning Commission  
14.  
Councilor St. Vil stated the Planning & Zoning Commission met on August 8, 2024, and  
continued to keep the Public Hearing open regarding an Application that was before them.  
He stated the Commission scheduled a Special Meeting for August 22, 2024.  
Councilor St. Vil went on to state there has been a lot of attention and care from the  
community regarding these Land Use Applications; as well as a desire to provide their input  
to the Commissions. He stated that there was a common theme and opportunity in both  
Commission Meetings (IWWC & P&Z) which he spoke to Land Use Director/Town  
Planner Elizabeth Burdick about. He stated at the upcoming Community Relations  
Committee for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’s August 21, 2024 meeting that they planned  
to develop a forum and/or program/mechanism to share with the community what was  
allowed and what was not allowed to be taken under consideration by these various  
Commissions, what data points were relevant, what data points were irrelevant, and to  
provide the community an opportunity ask their open questions, which would not delay the  
nature and purpose of these on-going meetings. He concluded by noting the Town Council  
would be working to develop some type of public relations to share what was allowed with  
these pending Applications.  
.
RESULT:  
Agricultural Commission  
15.  
Councilor Dombroski stated the Agricultural Commission cancelled their August 20, 2024  
meeting.  
.
RESULT:  
Water Pollution Control Authority  
16.  
Councilor Dombrowski stated the WPCA’s next meeting was scheduled for August 27,  
2024.  
.
RESULT:  
REPORT OF THE MAYOR:  
XII.  
Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Bond Anticipation Notes (BAN) Sale $5.5  
million for School/Central Office Roof/Solar/HVAC Projects - Mayor Allyn stated the Town  
received a 3.5% interest rate on one-year BANS for the Various Board of Education Projects that  
were initially approved by the voters on February 22, 2022; and approved again on October 17,  
2023 to increase the funding for the Projects to provide for the redesign of the Heating  
Ventilation and Air Condition System (HVAC) for the Juliet W. Long School; (2) Gov.Deals  
Sale - Mayor Allyn stated that they were continuing to sell the Board of Education’s surplus  
equipment using the on-line auction site and to put those funds back into the Board of  
Education’s Capital Accounts to be used toward new equipment purchases; (3) Hurricane  
Preparedness - Mayor Allyn urged residents to be prepared for Hurricane Season by having  
batteries, emergency back-up power such as a generator for those who may be on oxygen  
machines, or dialysis machines, to have non-perishable foods, and fresh/drinking water on hand  
for those who were on private wells. He stated should the area lose electricity those with wells  
would not have water. He also mentioned that it was not the town’s responsibility to provide  
generators to residents who required medical equipment; (4) School Roof Projects - Mayor Allyn  
stated although the Gales Ferry School Roof was water tight that the work might not be  
completed before the first day of school (August 29, 2024); (5) State Audit - School  
Improvement/Consolidation Project(s) (Middle School & Gallup Hill School) - Mayor Allyn  
stated the State Audit was scheduled for mid-November, 2024, explaining that the Auditors  
would be at the Town Hall Annex for about a week, where they would go through Banker Boxes  
full of documentation and sample the work that was done. He stated once the State Audit was  
completed that they would finalize the Projects and release the final Grant Payment to the Town.  
He stated thereafter the Town would Bond (borrow) funding for the two “Renovate as New  
School Projects”; (6) Human Resources Director Position - Mayor Allyn stated unfortunately  
Human Resources Director Marisa Iannella-Rodriguez, who was with Ledyard for just one year,  
has taken a job closer to home and with better pay. He stated Ledyard received 26 Applications  
for the position and that interviews were scheduled for next week. He stated earlier this evening  
during the Finance Committee meeting that he mentioned that two-years ago he had a  
conversation with the Finance Committee and the Town Council about making the pay for  
Ledyard’s Department Heads more competitive, noting that they were currently at the bottom of  
the Market Pay Scale. He stated he obtained a Salary Study that was recently conducted by ten  
towns. He stated they were working through the data to see how it impacted some of Ledyard’s  
salaries, understanding that some of their Department Heads wear many hats, which played a  
role in setting the appropriate salary; (7) Connecticut Interlocal Risk Management Agency  
(CIRMA) Equity Distribution - Mayor Allyn explained that 163 of the 169 Connecticut  
Municipalities were part of CIRMA (Insurance Provider). He stated when they have a good year  
the Municipalities receive an equity distribution, noting that this year Ledyard received a  
$17,929 distribution check from CIRMA. However, he stated when they do not have a good  
year, such as last year, Ledyard did not receive a CIRMA Distribution Check because of a $20  
million claim against a school roof for one of the Member Towns; (8) Multi-Use Pathway-  
Mayor Allyn stated the project was moving along. However, he stated they had to bring in a very  
large machine because they ran into an incredible amount of ledge in the area at by the Board of  
Education Central Office on Colonel Ledyard Highway. Therefore, he stated that they were  
working in the area of the High School so there would not be any interruptions at the driveways  
when school opened on August 29, 2024. He stated within the next 7-10-days they would put  
down the process gravel and then begin paving at the Trail Head, which was located by the  
Congregational Church in Ledyard Center; (9) Route 12 Corridor Study Bid #2025-01 - Mayor  
Allyn stated the Bid Opening for the Route 12/Gales Ferry Corridor Study was scheduled for  
August 15, 2024, noting that the town has received interest from a number of Design and  
Engineering Companies, and therefore, he hoped that they would receive multiple proposals. He  
stated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding would be used to pay for the Corridor Study;  
explaining the importance of having an updated Study to be eligible to apply for and receive  
Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) Grant Funding to be used for the  
construction work to provide improvements on Route 12. He stated currently the Governor has  
not proposed any STEAP Grants for this year; (10) First Day of School on August 29, 2024 -  
Mayor Allyn urged motorists to be mindful that students and school buses would be on the  
roads.  
Questions to the Mayor  
Councilor Ryan noted the Route 12/Gales Ferry Corridor Study, and he stated that this was  
one of many opportunities to obligate the remaining American Rescue Plan Act Funding  
(ARPA). He stated that they were coming into the home stretch and that they needed to  
ensure the town has obligated all of the Funds by December 31, 2024 ARPA Deadline.  
Councilor Buhle addressed the Department Heads Salary Study, and she questioned whether  
the salaries would take into consideration the Town Hall’s 4-day work week. She stated the  
4-day work week was a benefit, noting that some Department Heads have chosen to work for  
Ledyard knowing that their salaries were lower because of the 4-day work week. Mayor Allyn  
stated Town Hall employees work a forty-hour work week, noting that they work 10-hour  
days; and often longer because of attending night meetings. He stated in addition to the Salary  
Study that was conducted by ten-towns, that he was also going to obtain the Connecticut  
Conference of Municipalities (CCM) Salary Study. He stated Councilor Buhle’s comments  
was something that he would consider.  
Chairman Rodriguez addressed the school Roof Projects questioning the contingency plan if the  
projects were not completed before the first day of school on August 29, 2024. Mayor Allyn  
stated the Juliet W. Long School, and the Gales Ferry School had different contractors because  
the style of roofs and materials were different. He stated the Schools could consider waiving the  
“No Overhead Work Policy when the Building was Occupied” for the period of time it would  
take to complete the roof. He noted because the students were in the buildings until 3:30 p.m.  
and with the days getting shorter, that there would not be enough time to complete the work.  
However, he stated that this was a Board of Education and Permanent Municipal Building  
Committee (PMBC) matter, noting that although he provided comments to Chairman  
Rodriguez’s question, that the decision would need to be made by the Board of Education.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated she attended the PMBC August 12, 2024 meeting, noting it was  
disturbing to hear that the Roof Projects would not be completed before the start of school.  
Mayor Allyn agreed that it was disturbing, and disappointing because they received a number of  
bids for the projects, and they were doing all the right things with having an Owners  
Representative. However, he stated they could not have possibly known that the Contractor was  
not paying their bills, which caused the Subcontractors to pull back.  
Councilor Buhle expressed concern with having work done overhead during the school day,  
especially at the Juliet W. Long School, noting that it would be disruptive for the students  
because they did not have air-conditioning, and therefore, they would have their windows open.  
Mayor Allyn stated the Juliet W. Long School Roof should be completed before the first day of  
school (August 29, 2024). However, he stated the Gales Ferry School had a pitched roof that  
used steel materials.  
.
RESULT:  
XIII. OLD BUSINESS  
None.  
XIV. NEW BUSINESS  
·MOTION to amend the Agenda to add the following two Item:s  
(1) MOTION to authorize the town to proceed with the supplemental engineering services for  
the Colonel Ledyard Multi-Use Pathway for additional geotechnical services ($15,300)  
and additional construction design services ($15,000) per the August 12, 2024 Weston &  
Sampson Engineers, Inc. Amendment to Bid No. 2021-03.  
In addition, transfer and appropriate American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding in the  
total amount of $30,300 for said purpose. Source of ARPA funding transfer to be  
determined.  
(2) MOTION to appropriate $90,888 to the Child and Family Agency to provide Clinicians at  
the Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School for one year, from the American  
Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding designated for Youth Mental Health Clinicians.  
Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
Chairman Rodriguez noted that these two items would be added to the Agenda as Items #10 &  
#11.  
This was Approved and so declared.  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Jessica Buhle  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Tim Ryan  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
Administration Committee  
TOWN OF LEDYARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING .  
1.  
Moved by Councilor Brunelle, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski  
Discussion: Councilor Dombrowski stated in accordance with Chapter III; Section 5 of the Town  
Charter that “……..one public hearing shall be held by the Town Council before any ordinance  
shall be passed. This motion was only to set the Public Hearing date.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
April Brunelle  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Kevin Dombrowski  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
Finance Committee  
MOTION to add Courville’s Garage to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Standing Bid Waiver List.  
2.  
Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan  
Discussion: Councilor Saccone explained that the Gales Ferry Fire Company had been using  
Bulldog Fire Apparatus for their fire truck repairs, because they were familiar with the town’s  
apparatus, and because of the confidence they had with their lead mechanic, who had been  
working on their equipment for well over ten-years. However, he stated the lead mechanic was  
now working for Courville’s Garage and although the Fire Department had requested Courville’s  
Garage be added to the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Standing Bid Waiver List that it was overlooked.  
Therefore, he stated this item would add the Vendor to the Standing Bid Waiver List.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Jessica Buhle  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Tim Ryan  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to transfer additional revenues received for Fiscal Year 2023/2024 as follows:  
3.  
·
$39,502 received from the ASTE Program to Account #22570101 (BOE ASTE CNR) to be  
used as requested in the Board of Education’s email dated August 8, 2024 as follows.  
ü $27,000 Ag-Classroom multimedia equipment and interactive projector replacements  
ü $12,500 to Update to the lighting system in the classrooms to LED  
·
$304,635 received from Impact Aid to Account #22570101 (BOE CNR Reserve Fund) to be  
used for the following in accordance with the Board of Education’s Fiscal Year 2024/2025  
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP):  
ü $210,000 Ledyard High School Existing Elevator Replacement  
ü $73,300 Gallup Hill School Recommissioning  
ü $21,335 Juliet W. Long School-Gales Ferry School Playground.  
Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
Background: The Town received more grant revenue for the Agri-Science Program and for the  
Impact Aid Program, than the dollar amount that had been projected in the Fiscal Year  
2023/2024 Budget. Therefore, this request would pass the funds through from the General  
Government ledger to the Board of Education’s ledger. In a letter dated July 30, 2024, Chairman  
Rodriguez provided some suggestions for the use of the additional revenues and requested the  
Board of Education provide a Plan on how they would like to spend the funds. In an email dated  
August 13, 2024, Board of Education Chairman Favry forwarded the Board of Education’s Plan  
on how they would use the additional funding, which included two of the Town Council’s  
suggestions, as noted in the motion above.  
Discussion: Councilor Saccone explained the School Recommissioning was an analysis of the  
electrical systems, and other Building Maintenance Systems (BMS) such as the Heating  
Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. He stated Eversource would conduct an  
analysis to provide adjustments to have all the equipment operating more efficiently. He stated  
that Eversource indicated that the cost to conduct the Recommissioning would pay for itself in a  
couple of years because of the savings they would see by having the equipment operating  
efficiently.  
Councilor Buhle stated the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) included  
$24,840 to conduct the Recommissioning of the Ledyard Middle School. Therefore, she stated  
she was pleased to see they were moving forward to fund the Recommissioning of the Juliet W.  
Long School, noting that they could cross this expense off the Capital Plan Projects (CIP) List.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Tim Ryan  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Jessica Buhle  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to grant a bid waiver to Vision Government Solutions in the amount of $257,000 for  
Revaluation Services. due to receiving fewer than the required three bids in response to Bid  
2024-04 (Revaluation) in accordance with Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1) "An Ordinance for  
Purchasing".  
4.  
Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, explained in accordance with State Statutes Ledyard was required to  
conduct a full Revaluation this year. He stated in preparation for the Revaluation they had been  
allocating funding to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the past few years. He stated based on  
an estimated cost for the Revaluation they had a total budget of $187,000 to conduct this work. He  
stated in soliciting bids they thought they had three bids, however, he explained that one envelope  
was only a letter stating that the company was not going to submit a bid. Therefore, he stated they  
only received two bids, and the numbers came in substantially higher than the amount that was  
budgeted.  
Mayor Allyn went on to state Vision Government Solutions was both the better value and lower  
cost, noting that they were a good vendor. He stated this work would include door to door home  
inspections including sheds, decks, finished basements, etc. He stated the town used a different  
contractor the last time they conducted a full Revaluation and that they were not confident that the  
company got inside many houses. He stated Vision Government Solutions would begin their work  
this fall, and the new property valuations would take effect for the October 2025 Grand List.  
Councilor Ryan noted that they were going to be about $100,000 short, therefore, he questioned  
whether they could pay Vision Government Solutions for half of the contract in Fiscal Year  
2024/2025 and the other half of the contract in Fiscal Year 2025/2026. Mayor Allyn explained  
because all the work would be completed before the end of May 2025, that they would not be  
able to span the payment over two budget cycles.  
Councilor Buhle addressed homeowners fear of allowing the Assessment Company into their  
homes. However, she explained when everyone’s house was being assessed for the true value,  
they would be on a level playing field. She stated by ensuring that their assessed values matched  
up that it would result in everyone paying their fair share. She stated that this was something  
they needed to make clear to homeowners, when the Assessment Company was conducting their  
work.  
Councilor Ryan noted when New London conducted their full Revaluation that although the Mil  
Rate went down, that the property owners’ taxes dramatically increased. Therefore, he stated that  
this would be on the minds of residents, noting that he agreed with Councilor Buhle, in-that  
more communication would be beneficial.  
Councilor St. Vil stated the background information noted that there may be a savings of about  
$10,000. Mayor Allyn explained because Vision Government Solutions charged on a per photo  
basis; and because Ledyard already had a lot of updated property photos that there would be  
some savings. He also noted that should they pick-up on sheds, decks or finished basements for  
work that may or may not have had permits; and/or were not picked-up during the last  
Revaluation, that those things would be taxed. Therefore, he stated what they find in the full  
Revaluation could offset increase in the cost of the Revaluation.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Tony Saccone  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Jessica Buhle  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to approve appropriations from the receipt of sales of vehicles through GovDeals in  
the total amount of $7,250 to the following capital accounts:  
5.  
·
·
·
·
$2,575 to Public Works Small Trucks (21040101-57313);  
$3,610 to Pooled Vehicles (21040101-57315);  
$1,065 to Building Upgrade Reserve (21040111-58240).  
Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan  
Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, stated the town has significantly increased their revenues by selling  
their surplus equipment using the on-line auction site Gov.Deals instead of the sealed bid process  
they previously used to sell surplus equipment. He stated this sale included the following: retired  
Parks & Recreation truck; former Fire Chief’s Explorer that was inoperable; and Solar Panels that  
were removed from the Senior Citizens Center, when the roof was replaced. He explained rather  
than reinstall the Solar Panels, which had less than 50% of their useful life remaining, the Solar  
Panels were sold.  
Mayor Allyn went on to state as he mentioned during his Report earlier this evening, he has been  
working to help the Board of Education sell their surplus equipment using the Gov.Deals on-line  
auction site. Therefore, he the Town Council would also be seeing a request from the Board of  
Education to allocate the revenues received from the sale of their equipment to capital accounts.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Jessica Buhle  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Tim Ryan  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to approve purchase of a new Elgin Pelican sweeper through the Sourcewell  
6.  
lease/purchase provider over a term of five (5) years at $66,467.49 per year.  
·
Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
Discussion: Councilor Saccone explained that Municipalities were required to sweep their streets  
each year. He stated Ledyard and Preston would be sharing the cost (2/3- Ledyard; and 1/3 Preston)  
to purchase a new Elgin Pelican Sweeper. He deferred to Public Works Director/Town Engineer  
Steve Masalin to provide more details regarding the arrangement.  
Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin provided some background explaining the  
Town of Ledyard sold its 22-year-old Street Sweeper in 2022 with the thought that the  
Department could better and more economically cover the Town’s annual sweeping needs  
through a rental. He stated the Town rented a Street Sweeper in 2023 and 2024, using the  
Beverage (“Nip”) Container Surcharges Revenue, which by Legislation was an explicit use of  
the funding. However, he stated the results substantially failed to meet their expectations for a  
number of reasons. He stated that they also learned that the availability of rental units to sweep  
roads has declined significantly, with no prospects of increasing.  
Mr. Masalin went on to state in-light of this predicament, they now felt that owning a Street  
Sweeper would be the best, and most economical way to meet their needs. He continued by  
explaining that the Town of Preston was coincidentally in need of replacing its Street Sweeper,  
which has reached the end of its service life. He stated this has offered the opportunity to  
purchase a shared unit that would cover the annual scope of work for each town, and that the  
Street Sweeper would also be available for spot needs throughout the year. He stated the cost  
share would be allocated proportionally based on paved road mileage which would result in 2/3  
for Ledyard and 1/3 for Preston.  
Mr. Masalin stated prior to the Special Finance Committee meeting that was held earlier this  
evening he had a telephone conversation with Preston First Selectwoman Sandra Allyn-Gothier to  
follow-up with Preston’s interest regarding a shared arrangement between Ledyard and Preston. He  
reported that Selectwoman Allyn-Gothier stated that Preston was on-board with the shared  
arrangement. He stated the Five-Year Lease/Purchase Annual Payment would be $66,000 which  
included about a 4.7% annual interest rate. He stated the Town of Preston would pay  
approximately $22,000 toward the annual lease payment; and Ledyard would pay about $44,000.  
He noted the Beverage (“Nip”) Container Surcharge Account had a current balance of about  
$44,000 and by the time the first payment was due, which would be when the Street Sweeper  
was delivered (March, 2025) that the Beverage (“Nip”) Container Surcharges Account would  
have an approximate balance of $75,000; which would most likely cover their payment for the  
first two years. He stated going forward, that in addition to using the Beverage (“Nip”) Container  
Surcharges Revenue that some funds could be drawn from Account 21040101-57311 (Public  
Works Heavy Equipment Capital Reserve), which has been funded at $85,000 annually.  
Mr. Masalin stated in parallel with the purchase of the Street Sweeper that he would be working  
to secure a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Town of Preston outlining the  
details of the shared arrangement. He stated the Street Sweeper would last about fifteen years;  
noting that would provide about ten years during which time the town could accumulate funding  
from the Beverage (“Nip”) Container Surcharge Revenues in anticipation of having to replace  
the piece of equipment.  
Councilor Ryan stated although some may believe that a Street Sweeper was a luxury, that to  
maintain its MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) Permit Certifications, that the town  
had to sweep the streets, even if they did not own a Street Sweeper.  
Councilor Ryan went on to state understanding that Mr. Masalin had a verbal commitment from  
Preston, that the Town Council was considering the purchase of a new Elgin Pelican Street  
Sweeper ahead of having an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in place with  
Preston. Therefore, he questioned the following:  
· Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) - Councilor Ryan asked whether Mr. Masalin was  
comfortable with proceeding with the purchase based on Preston’s verbal commitment. Mr.  
Masalin stated that he was comfortable with moving forward at this time, noting that Preston  
was also in need of a new Street Sweeper; and they did not want to bear the full cost to  
purchase a new piece of equipment. Therefore, he stated it was a favorable opportunity for  
Preston.  
· Maintenance Costs - Councilor Ryan questioned whether the town would be responsible for  
the maintenance costs during the time of the five-year lease; and how the maintenance costs  
would be shared with Preston. Mr. Masalin explained although there would be some things  
covered by the warranty, that the town would be responsible for the maintenance of wear  
items such as replacing the brushes, consumable parts, and routine maintenance, etc., which  
would cost a few thousand dollars each year. He stated the town has been involved with two  
lease/purchase agreements in the past; and by the end of the lease the equipment would be  
paid for/purchased. He went on to explain that Ledyard’s Public Works was maintaining  
(mechanic services) Preston’s Fleet, stating they currently have a Memorandum of  
Understanding (MOU) in place to provide those services to Preston.  
· Revenue Source - Councilor Ryan questioned whether Mr. Masalin has considered using the  
Street Sweeper as a revenue source by leasing it out for private events. Mr. Masalin stated  
the Street Sweeper was not the type of equipment they would want to rent out, noting that  
they would not send it out without one of their operators. He explained the Street Sweeper  
was the type of equipment that consumes itself; however, he stated that they could leave the  
door open.  
Councilor Ryan stated once the Street Sweeper was paid off in five years, and assuming the  
Legislation would not make any changes to the Beverage (“Nip”) Container Surcharge Program,  
that this revenue source should pay to maintain the Street Sweeper. He stated that he was pleased  
to see the town was purchasing a Street Sweeper, but at the same time, disappointed to see that it  
would use all the Nip Bottle Revenues. He thanked Mr. Masalin for all the work he has done to  
facilitate the lease/purchase of the Street Sweeper and the shared costs with Preston.  
Mr. Masalin addressed the MS4 Program (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) relative to  
the need for a Street Sweeper, explaining that there were technical requirements for stormwater  
enforcement and stormwater protection. He noted that this was the second year the town  
successfully completed contracting services for catch basin cleaning, noting that it has worked  
well. He went on to state although both towns (Ledyard and Preston) have shifted to treated salt  
for winter operations, that with the elimination of the sand that was previously used to  
accompany their road treatment, that there still remained a considerable amount of debris that  
collected along the road edges from other sources. He stated for the 2024 sweeping season,  
thirty-two (32) large dump truck loads (about 100 tons) of debris were collected off our roads.  
Also, annual sweeping was a requirement of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)  
Program.  
Councilor St. Vil stated partnering with and an adjacent town to share the cost to purchase the  
Street Sweeper was a great idea. However, he questioned the exit strategy with Preston, noting  
as an example how they would proceed should Ledyard feel that the Street Sweeper was at the  
end of its useful life, but Preston still wanted to hold on to the Street Sweeper. Mr. Masalin  
stated the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) would include an explicit term noting that  
they would prorate the value that was left. He stated the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)  
would cover everything.  
Councilor Buhle stated one of the benefits of owning a Street Sweeper was that they could use  
the equipment anytime during the year should they have a special environmental issue or specific  
need. Mr. Masalin stated in years past they have deployed the Street Sweeper when specific  
events (storms, etc.) have happened.  
Councilor Saccone addressed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding, and he  
questioned if they had ARPA funding that was not committed whether they could use those  
funds to pay off the Street Sweeper, noting that they would save the interest costs. Mr. Masalin  
stated the town could pay in-full at any time, with no penalty.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Tim Ryan  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Jessica Buhle  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to authorize the town to proceed with the engineering design of sewer mains along  
Fairway/Colby Drives ($108,000) and Route 117 ($137,500), respectively, per Weston &  
Sampson Engineers, Inc. Bid No. 2021-03 Amendments 3 and 4.  
7.  
In addition, transfer and appropriate ARPA and/or other funding in the total amount of $245,500  
from Account # 0210-10-1210-12101-58915 (CNR Undesignated) for said purpose.  
Councilor Saccone noted that the Finance Committee tabled Item #7 earlier this evening.  
Therefore, he asked that the Town Council not act on this Motion; noting that the Committee  
was not prepared to move the request.  
NO ACTION  
MOTION to approve the following Salary Adjustments effective July 1, 2024:  
RESULT:  
8.  
·
·
$80,217 Account #1010101-51602 (Administrative Assistant)  
$56,952 Account #1010201-51607 (Executive Assistant)  
In addition, authorize retroactive payments in the total amount of $2,692; and appropriate  
$20,000 from #Account 10110107-56100 (Undesignated) to the respective accounts.  
Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan  
Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, explained as he mentioned during his Report earlier this evening, the  
town had a number of Department Heads whose salaries were behind where they should be. He  
stated these two positions warranted attention right-a-way; those being the Town Council  
Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher; and the Mayor’s Executive Assistant Kristen Chapman.  
He stated this Motion was the first step in working to adjust the Department Head Salaries, noting  
that he has obtained a Salary Survey that was done by ten area towns; and that he planned to obtain a  
Salary Study from the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM). He stated providing the  
Department Heads with fair wages for the work that they do would cost about $80,000 - $90,000 per  
year, which was not a lot in their overall budget. He stated he valued all their Department Heads,  
noting that these two positions were certainly worthy of these salary adjustments.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated that she agreed with Mayor Allyn’s comments, noting that she could  
attest that both of these two employees were committed, professional, hardworking, and loyal to  
this town. She stated that she supported these two salary adjustments.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
MOTION to appropriate $3,000 to Account #10114301-51610 (Land Use Supervisors) in  
connection with $3,000 received from fines assessed in accordance with Ordinance #300-012  
(rev.2) “An Ordinance Concerning Blight and Public Nuisance for the Town of Ledyard”.  
9.  
Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, stated the Blight Enforcement Officer had been working to address a  
blighted property on Crestview Drive, Gales Ferry. He stated the goal of Ordinance #300-012  
(rev.2) “An Ordinance Concerning Blight and Public Nuisance for the Town of Ledyard” was to  
bring blighted properties into voluntary compliance, and not to fine property owners. Therefore,  
he stated the Blight Enforcement Officer tries to work with property owners so that homes were  
respectable for the neighbors, the neighborhood, and for the town as a whole. He stated the fine  
was substantially more than the dollar amount that was settled on, explaining that through the  
Town Attorney they worked to find a solution that both the property owner and the town could  
work with, noting that this was the source of the $3,000.  
Mayor Allyn went on to explain allocating these funds to the Land Use Department would be  
useful because they were working to contract with consultants for different projects, and to assist  
with Plan Reviews, because there were some large Plans that could be coming their way, that  
would require additional assistance. He also noted that there may be some additional Blight Fees  
collected for one other property.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Tim Ryan  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Jessica Buhle  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to authorize the town to proceed with the supplemental engineering services for the  
Colonel Ledyard Multi-Use Pathway for additional geotechnical services ($15,300) and  
additional construction design services ($15,000) per the August 12, 2024 Weston & Sampson  
Engineers, Inc. amendment to Bid No. 2021-03.  
10.  
In addition, transfer and appropriate ARPA funding in the total amount of $30,300 for said  
purpose. Source of ARPA funding transfer to be determined.  
Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone  
Discussion: Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin provided some background  
explaining the Finance Committee tabled Item #7 (see above) at their meeting earlier this  
evening because more information was needed in considering the appropriate funding source to  
pay the $245,000 for engineering design of the sewer mains along Fairway/Colby Drives  
($108,000) and Route 117 ($137,500), noting that there would not be enough American Rescue  
Plan Act (ARPA) to pay for this work.  
Mr. Masalin continued by explaining that during the construction of the Multi-Use Pathway they  
discovered that additional geotechnical validation was needed in the area of the large retaining  
wall at the intersection of Gallup Hill Road and Colonel Ledyard Highway. Therefore, he stated  
the construction work in this location has been halted pending the results of the geotechnical  
work and the associated design. He stated Weston & Sampson has submitted a proposal for the  
geotechnical validation services for a lump sum fee of $15,300 and a proposal in the amount of  
an additional $15,000 to cover the balance of the construction effort.  
Mr. Masalin went on to explain that the balance for the original construction design engineering  
for the Multi-Use Pathway has been exhausted, because of various construction eventualities. He  
stated because the Multi-Use Pathway (LoTCIP Funding) and Phase I of the Sewer Extension  
Project (ARPA Funding) were running along the same path and were being done simultaneously,  
that there was some savings in the engineering design work that could be used to pay for the  
additional $30,300 needed for the geotechnical validation and to cover the balance of the  
construction effort.  
Mr. Masalin reviewed the Multi-Use Pathway and the Sewer Extension Project noting the  
following:  
· Phase I - Sewer Extension Project - Ledyard Center to the High School (currently under  
way).  
· Phase II -Sewer Extension Project - Ledyard Center Commercial District.  
· Phase III- Sewer Extension Project - Mr. Masalin noted Phase III would replace the  
inadequate sewer line from the High School to Pennywise Lane and would tie into the service  
lines that go to the Wastewater Sewer Treatment Facility. He stated the engineering design  
work has been funded; and the drawings were ready to go to the Contractor within the next  
couple of weeks for them to prepare cost estimates for the construction. He stated this would  
allow the town to hopefully keep the Contractor on-board and have a favorable contract in  
place by the December 31, 2024 ARPA Deadline, and weather permitting they would be able  
to work through the winter.  
Mr. Masalin presented an analysis of the Multi-Use Pathway and the Sewer Extension Project  
noting the following:  
Project  
ARPA Allocation  
$2.15 Million  
Balance  
$90,000.  
($55,000)  
$30,000  
Sewer Extension Projects  
Other ARPA Projects  
Total ARPA Balance:  
Mr. Masalin stated that the ARPA Balance in the amount of $30,000 could be used to pay for the  
geotechnical validation and to cover the balance of the Multi-Use Pathway construction effort  
and keep Phase I of the Sewer Extension Project moving forward. He stated because the  
geotechnical work would take about three weeks that this funding was an urgent need. He stated  
the reason they were seeking the use of these ARPA funds was because the engineering expenses  
during the Multi-Use Pathway construction was not eligible for LoTCIP Grant reimbursement,  
and because this work was needed to keep Phase I - Sewer Extension Projects moving forward.  
Councilor Ryan noted the ARPA Funding Analysis Mr. Masalin provided this evening only  
addressed the Sewer Extension Projects. However, he stated within the whole of the ARPA  
Projects List that there was actually $1.5 million at-risk, which included projects that were not  
yet fully expended, and projects not started yet (Phase III of the Sewer Extension Project). Mr.  
Masalin responded noting as he previously stated, the engineering work would be done soon,  
and they could have a contract in-place for Phase III Sewer Extension Project before the  
December 31, 2024 ARPA Deadline.  
Councilor Ryan asked Mayor Allyn whether there was any in-progress ARPA Projects that  
currently had ARPA Funding remaining; or projects that would be returning unused ARPA  
Funding. Mayor Allyn, III, noted the following ARPA Projects:  
· LED Message Sign in Ledyard Center $35,000 - Mayor Allyn stated the digital sign and  
installation may come in $4,000 under the amount allocated.  
· Erickson Park Improvements $55,000 - Mayor Allyn stated the Contractor would be starting  
on the project soon.  
· Ledyard Center Sidewalk In-Fill $35,000 - Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve  
Masalin stated they were working to have the engineering design for the sidewalk and permit  
in-place. However, he stated he did not believe that the $35,000 ARPA Funding allocation  
would be enough to do any meaningful work.  
Councilor Buhle noted during the Finance Committee meeting earlier this evening they  
determined that the source of $30,300 to pay for the geotechnical validation work and to pay the  
balance of the construction effort for the Multi-Use Pathway, would be drawn from the ARPA  
Funding for Phase I of the Sewer Extension Project.  
Mayor Allyn explained the geotechnical work was to validate that the base of a massive  
retaining wall was structurally sound. He stated if it was not structurally sound it would fail,  
which they do not want to happen.  
Councilor St. Vil asked who was questioning the structure of the retaining wall, the construction  
contractor or the engineer. Mr. Masalin stated the construction contractor questioned the  
soundness and the placement of the toe of the wall, based on what they were seeing when they  
cleared the vegetation. He stated that there were some areas that needed to be realigned,  
independent of the geotechnical analysis. He stated he met with the engineer and several agents  
of the construction contractor on-site last week, noting that this was the result of that on-site  
effort. Councilor St. Vil questioned the cost of the baseline design contract. Mr. Masalin stated  
the baseline engineering contract cost was $85,950; however, he stated there were additional  
changes that came along and were authorized for various reasons. He stated in response to a  
pointed conversation he had with the Engineer, that the Engineer explained this work was for  
services that were not included in the original design because they made some assumptions,  
noting that they did borings in the road; however, the borings were not on the outside of the  
guiderails, where the shoulder of the Multi-Use Pathway would go. Therefore, the Engineer  
wanted to know that when they put the walls in and the fill that what was there would remain  
structurally sound; and that he did not expect the wall design to change.  
Councilor St. Vil stated the additional engineering work was costing about 20% of the original  
contract; and he questioned whether there were any other risk areas. Mr. Masalin stated the  
subsurface work was mostly done, which was where they had the uncertainties of ledge, and  
rock. He stated once they get to the surface work there would be very little uncertainty. He stated  
this was the biggest issue remaining, noting that everything else was moving along well. He  
stated the digging for the sewer main was going well, noting that this was all part of Phase I of  
the Sewer Extension Project.  
Mayor Allyn stated the good news was that Phase III of the Sewer Extension Project was going  
to follow the existing sewer line path. He stated assuming they did not backfill the trench with  
bad fill when they put in the existing line, that it should be an easy dig. Mr. Masalin stated that  
there would be some departure from the footprint of the current sewer line, because they were  
going to have to keep the sewer in-service while they were running the new sewer line.  
Councilor Ryan stated if they moved forward with appropriating $30,300 from the ARPA  
Funding for Phase I of the Sewer Extension Project to pay for the geotechnical validation work  
and the balance of the construction work for the Multi-Use Pathway, that the ARPA Funding  
would be running at a negative of $100,000; with the intention, as Mr. Masalin mentioned, that  
the ARPA Funding would be in a positive position by the time projects come to close.  
V8 O- 0TAEp: proved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Jessica Buhle  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Tony Saccone  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
·
MOTION to appropriate $90,888 to the Child and Family Agency to provide Clinicians at  
11.  
the Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School for one year, from the American Rescue Plan  
Act (ARPA) Funding designated for Youth Mental Health Clinicians.  
Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan  
Discussion: Councilor Buhle stated as part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Projects  
status review the Finance Committee has been discussing the $190,000 that had been earmarked  
to provide mental health services to the youth in our community. She stated the Finance  
Committee questioned the reason the funding was not being used at rate for it to be fully  
committed by the December 31, 2024 ARPA Deadline, because there was a need for mental  
health services. She noted the Clinicians at the elementary schools had full caseloads of ten  
students, and there were kids on a waiting list for services.  
Councilor Buhle went on to state in speaking with School Superintendent Jason Hartling, at the  
Finance Committee’s July 17, 2024 meeting they learned that Clinician Pat Frost, who took over  
from Kate Sikorski-Maynard, was providing services for both the High School and Middle  
School students, but that she was not comfortable with administering services to younger age  
children. She stated they also learned that although the State of Connecticut Child and Family  
Agency provided funding to support the School Based Health Progrm, which included Mental  
Health Services, for the upcoming school year (2024/2025) at the High School, Middle School, and  
Gallup Hill School, that the State did not provide funding to continue the same level of mental  
health services at the Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School.  
Councilor Buhle stated based on their discussion Mr. Hartling contacted the Child and Family  
Agency to find out how much it would cost to provide a Clinician at the Juliet W. Long School and  
Gales Ferry School for the upcoming school year. She stated the cost for the salaries including fringe  
benefits was $90,885. She stated the Board of Education also discussed the need to provide mental  
health services at the Juliet W. Long School and Gallup Hill School. She noted in his July 18, 2024  
email Board of Education Chairman Anthony Favry encouraged the Town Council to consider  
providing funding to support mental health services in these two schools.  
Councilor Buhle continued by addressing the importance to provide equitable services at all their  
schools. She also noted for full disclosure that her son received services from the Child and Family  
Agency at the Juliet W. Long School, noting that he was one of the children impacted by this  
disparity, but that he was certainly not the only child. She stated this was a worthwhile use of the  
ARPA Funds for the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 School year, while Ledyard continued to work to secure  
funding going forward to ensure all Ledyard Schools would have the School Based Health Program,  
which included Mental Health Services, through the Child and Family Agency.  
Councilor Dombrowski stated these ARPA Funds were provided specifically for mental health.  
However, he stated because the Town was not going to be able to fully expend these ARPA funds;  
and because there was a need at the schools for mental health services; that the Board of Education  
could use the funds for their intended purpose.  
Councilor Ryan stated when the Finance Committee began discussing the use of the $4,327,093.49  
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding that Ledyard received that he clearly stated that he  
would not support programs that created jobs. He explained because the ARPA Funding was  
only available for a certain amount of time, that if they used the funding to create jobs that once  
the funding was fully expended, the town would have an unfunded liability; or that person would  
be out of a job.  
Councilor Buhle addressed Councilor Ryan’s comment about using ARPA Funding to support  
Mental Health Clinicians at the Juliet W. Long School and Gales Ferry School. She stated in this  
particular arrangement that the Clinicians would not be Town of Ledyard employees, noting that  
they were Child and Family Agency Employees, who the Town would be contracting with.  
Councilor Ryan questioned how the Mental Health Clinicians would not be Town employees.  
Mayor Allyn, III, explained that Superintendent of Schools Mr. Hartling contacted the Child and  
Family Agency and found out that it would cost $90,885 (salary and fringe benefits). He stated that  
Mr. Hartling asked Child and Family Agency if they would be willing to invoice the Town of  
Ledyard directly for those services; and that Child and Family Agency stated that they could.  
Therefore, he stated that the Child and Family Agency would invoice the Town of Ledyard for  
$90,885 for one school year (one-time) to provide services for the upcoming school year. He stated  
what ever happens next year would be strictly between the Board of Education and the Child and  
Family Agency.  
Councilor Buhle noted last year was the first year the Child and Family Agency provided the School  
Based Health Program. Therefore, she stated that she could not understand how after only one-year  
the State could decide that the program should not be funded at certain schools. She stated one year  
was not enough data to determine that services were not needed.  
Councilor Ryan questioned whether the Board of Education discussed how they would proceed if  
the State did not provide funding to Ledyard to support the services next year. Councilor Buhle  
stated that she did not know if the Board of Education has discussed that. However, she stated the  
Board of Education did not provide any notice to parents that the Child and Family Agency services  
were not going to be provided at the Juliet W. Long and Gales Ferry School next year.  
Councilor Ryan stated the only reason he agreed to appropriate the $190,000 ARPA Funds for the  
Youth Mental Health Clinician was because it included a Sunset Plan. He stated that he was not  
hearing that they had a Sunset Plan for contracting with the Child and Family Agency to provide  
services. Mayor Allyn and Councilor Buhle both stated that there was a Sunset Plan, noting that they  
were only providing funding for one-school year. Councilor Buhle stated the Board of Education  
would be very clear in telling the Child and Family Agency that they would not be able to fund the  
program in future years, but that they would like to have them at all of Ledyard’s Schools. Councilor  
Ryan commented that it should be the Board of Education fighting for the funding to facilitate the  
Child and Family Agency services at all the schools. Mayor Allyn stated the Board of Education  
invested money in each of the schools to set up the School Based Health Program/Clinician Pods,  
noting that they were stunned to learn that some of the funding had been pulled. Therefore, he stated  
that he believed Superintendent Hartling was actively working with Senator Osten to get those funds  
restored.  
VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Jessica Buhle  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
Tim Ryan  
SECONDER:  
8
1
Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, Saccone, and St. Vil  
Garcia-Irizarry  
AYE:  
EXCUSED:  
XV. ADJOURNMENT  
Councilor Buhle moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Paul.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 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 August 14, 2024.  
____________________________________  
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.