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, November 13, 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:

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CALL TO ORDER

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 Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

Councilor Gary Paul

Present:

Chairman S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Tim Ryan

Councilor Tony Saccone

Councilor Gary St. Vil

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

None.

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

MINUTES

Mr. Steve Munger, 12 Nutmeg Drive, Gales Ferry, stated he was present this evening to

address the following:

· Election Day - November 5, 2024 - Mr. Munger stated during elections that he stands

outside the polling locations and holds the US American Flag and signs. He noted that

Councilor Buhle brought her 10-year-old son with her to the polls. He went on to state this

year election day was on his birthday, noting that a friend made him Lopia (banana wrapped

in filo dough) and asked him how old he was. He stated that he replied stating that he was 70

- years old and he noted that Councilor Buhle’s son stated that he did not look 70-years old

and that he was going to call him “21” because that was how old he thought he looked. He

stated most of the morning all those who were at the polls stood together (democrats and

republicans). However, he stated later in the day they split up, noting that his group was all

men and that the other group was all woman. He stated Councilor Buhle’s son came over to

his group and stated that he wanted to be with the guys, Mr. Munger noted that Councilor

Buhle’s son was so cute. He stated at the end of the day when he said goodbye to Councilor

Buhle’s son he said, “It was nice to meet you, have a good day kid”; and that Councilor

Buhle’s son replied stating “Have a good day kid”. Mr. Munger went on to note that

Councilor Buhle’s son went on to state “Mr. Munger was not a kid, but that he was his 21”.

Mr. Munger stated that he wanted to share this story with the Town Council noting that

Councilor Buhle’s son was amazing; and that he made him feel good that day.

· Flying Third Party Flags on Town Property - Mr. Munger stated that he was against

flying any flag other than the US American Flag on town property. He stated that he was

surprised the Democrats wanted to change the town’s practice to only fly the US American

Flag, because they called themselves the “Party of Unity”. Mr. Munger stated the town had

unity

right now with flying the US American Flag which represented everybody. He stated now

they wanted to start flying flags that would automatically be divisive, noting that he was not

just talking about the gay flag, noting that any flag would be divisive. He encouraged the

town to keep the US American Flag where it should be, so that they all stay united and that

they leave the other stuff for meetings like this one.

· Local Elections for the Town Council and the Board of Education - Mr. Munger stated

the Town Council and Board of Education should work together, without interfering with

each other.

· Trunk or Treat Friday, October 25, 2024 - Mr. Munger stated Trunk or Treat was a

great Kids Event in town. He stated he was disappointed and disheartened to see political

signs at a Kids Event. He suggested the next time the town does something for the Kids that

they leave it for the Kids.

Mr. Munger stated he respected that the members of the Town Council were investing their

time; however, he stated that he disagreed with some of the things they were doing. He

suggested they take a deep breath and think before making decisions. He thanked the Town

Council for the opportunity to address them this evening.

Councilor Rodriguez thanked Mr. Munger for this comments.

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Chairman Rodriguez stated the 2024 Presidential Election was behind them. She gave a huge

Thank You to the Registrars; those who volunteered to work at the polls; and those who

worked for two weeks during the Early Voting. She stated that she heard Ledyard residents

frequently comment on how much they appreciated the Early Voting opportunity. She went

on to thank their Connecticut State Legislators for having the foresight to provide such a

wonderful opportunity. She stated that over one-third (36%) of Ledyard's voters took

advantage of the Early Voting, and that 85 % of Ledyard's voters cast their ballot in this

year’s election. She stated that democracy was a team sport, and Ledyard did its part!

Chairman Rodriguez again thanked the Registrars and all the volunteers who made Early

Voting and Election Day run smoothly.

Chairman Rodriguez went on to congratulate and thank everyone who ran for Office and

made our democracy work. She stated that they need to continue to treat each other with

dignity and respect, with due sensitivity for the election results, noting that they need to

continue living and working together in our community.

Chairman Rodriguez stated small acts of kindness and caring would go a long way over the

next few weeks, and she encouraged all to look towards Thanksgiving, and the holidays in

December with an eye to those in Ledyard who were less fortunate, noting that for some that

the holidays may bring sadness. She stated that there were plenty of opportunities to give and

donate, and she encouraged residents to do so as they could afford. She noted the State

Legislature would begin its session on January 8, 2025 and she encouraged residents to reach

out to Ledyard's delegation with appropriate needs or concerns.

Chairman Rodriguez continued by noting that November 11, 2024 was Veterans Day and

that she wanted to say Thank You to all of our Veterans in Town. She stated their bravery,

courage, sacrifice, and love of country was appreciated. She stated that it was because of our

military service members that our country was the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave.

She stated that it was because of our Veterans that our great democracy was intact, noting

that they were grateful to all of our Veterans, and she again thanked them and their families

for their Service.

Councilor Rodrigeuz concluded her comments by stating that she would also like to thank

Ledyard’s Beautification Committee for the Veterans Day signs they displayed in town. She

stated the signs were a great idea and the families that participated were proud to have the

name of their loved ones on a sign, noting that they proudly posted pictures of the signs on

social media. She stated at their November 12, 2024 meeting the Beautification Committee

agreed to do the signs again next year. She stated Kudos and Thank You again to the

Beautification Committee!

Councilor Brunelle stated today was World Kindness Day and she encouraged people to do

something kind for someone today and everyday.

Councilor Brunelle continued by thanking the Ledyard Center Fire Department and her

neighbors in the Highlands, noting on Monday, November 11, 2024 at approximately 3:15

p.m. a minor set her lawn on fire. She stated that her neighbor was able to get a picture of the

act and that the Fire Department was able to put the fire out quickly, noting that they were

fortunate that there was no major damage. She stated when the Police Officers visited the

minor they had to bring the individual in for evaluation. She stated if the minor had received

the mental health services they needed that perhaps they may not have set her lawn on fire.

She stated thankfully, although things were very dry, the fire did not go far.

Councilor Saccone noted Councilor Dombrowski’s comments at the Town Council’s

October 23, 2024 meeting regarding the fire danger. He stated yesterday a Red Flag

Warning was issued, which meant there were wind gusts between 30-40 miles per hour. He

stated if a brush fire started that it could have spread a mile a minute, as they have seen

happening out west. He stated both the Ledyard Center Fire Company and Gales Ferry Fire

Company each responded to about a dozen illegal burns. He stated the Red Flag Warnings

have been on the news, the radio, social media, in the newspapers, and has been discussed at

public meetings such as this meeting. He stated residents should curtail any burning, because

the smallest wind gust could become an extreme danger to the people in their town. He urged

residents to use caution and not to have campfires for several months.

Councilor Buhle noted Mr. Munger’s comments (see above V. Residents and Property

Owners) regarding Election Day. She stated it was a great experience to bring her son to the

polls on November 5, 2024. She stated her son asks a lot of great questions about policy, etc.

and that he wanted to go to the polls with her and hold signs. She stated it was a good for her

son to see the kindness between both political parties, noting that everyone was friendly, and

it was fun. She stated that she was glad that her son chose to be a part of Election Day.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted the Red Flag Fire Warning, and she questioned whether the

town could use the digital signs in Ledyard Cetner and Gales Ferry, and the town’s website

to post the Fire Danger Alert. Mayor Allyn, III, replied stating that it was his understanding

that a message was posted on the digital signs regarding the Red Flag Fire Alert and on the

Town’s website, but that he would confirm that the message was posted tomorrow.

Councilor Ryan, attending remotely, stated he echoed the sentiments that were said this

evening about the Election, Veterans Day, the Red Flag Fire Alert, and the Precautions. He

also noted that the Marine Corp Birthday happens the day before Veterans Day every year.

He stated it was an important holiday, and he stated Happy Belated Birthday to the Marine

Corp.

Councilor Ryan went on to state that he appreciated the efforts of the Registrar’s Office this

past election. He stated that he had friends that worked in Registrars Offices in surrounding

municipalities and that he was hearing about the amount of people flowing into the office

and their effort to make sure that it went smoothly. He noted that Ledyard did not have some

of the difficulties that were experienced in surrounding municipalities with the early voting

and the signing of the ballots. He stated he was grateful for Ledyard’s Registrar’s Office.

Chairman Rodriguez noted that this year was the Marine Corp’s 249 Birthday. Councilor

Ryan stated that Chairman Rodriguez was correct, noting that next year would be a milestone

birthday for the Marine Corp stating that they would be celebrating 250 years.

Councilor St. Vil, attending remotely, echoed Chairman Rodriguez’s comments in

expressing his appreciation for the Veterans in our community and in our country who have

done so much for all of us. He stated that he also appreciated all the folks who worked hard

to make Election Day a success in our Town.

Councilor St. Vil continued by noting that November was Native American Heritage Month.

He stated he would like to take this opportunity to honor the heritage and contributions of

our Native People. He stated that November was their collective opportunity to recognize

and honor the rich history, diverse cultures, and enduring contributions of America’s

Indigenous People, who have contributed to this country, state, and community.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Public Hearing Minutes of October 23, 2024

Regular Meeting Minutes of October 23, 2024

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

VOTE: 9 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications List - November 13, 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

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Administration Committee met earlier this evening

noting that they addressed the following: (1) Several appointments to town committees; and

(2) Discussed an Ethics Commission and a Code of Ethics.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Councilor Brunelle stated the Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity &

Inclusion next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee met on November 6, 2024 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 November 4, 2025 and continued to

discuss the following items: (1) Historic Designation of the Spicer Homestead Ruins -

Councilor St. Vil stated members of the Historic District Commission attended the LUPPW

Committee meeting and he noted that they would be seeking approval to submit a Grant

Application to obtain funding to pay for an A2 Survey of the property. He stated the

Commission would also be working with the Town Planner, Finance Director, and the

Mayor to complete a Grant Application to obtain funding to help pay for the A2 Survey and

other costs related to seeking a historic designation. He stated the Historic District

Commission would be providing a briefing to the Town Council at a future meeting

regarding their desire to apply for grant funding; (2) Blighted properties; (3) Noise issue, and

(4) Illegal Dumping issue. Councilor St. Vil stated the Committee would continue to discuss

these topics at their December 2, 2024 meeting.

RESULT:

Liaison Reports

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

Councilor Brunelle stated the PMBC met on November 4, 2024; however, she was not able to

attend the meeting; and the minutes were not yet available.

RESULT:

Ledyard Center Fire Department

Councilor Saccone stated although he did not have anything to report that he wanted to thank the

career fireman for the great job they have been doing during this Red Flag Fire Alert, dry season.

RESULT:

Ledyard Farmers’ Committee

Councilor Rodriguez noted that the Farmers Market Committee cancelled their November 4,

2024 meeting.

RESULT:

Retirement Board

Councilor Rodriguez stated the Retirement Board will be meeting on Tuesday, November 19,

2024.

RESULT:

Library Commission

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Library Commission’s next meeting was scheduled for

November 18, 2024.

RESULT:

Board of Education

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Board of Education met on November 12, 2024 and she

noted the following was discussed: (1) Late Buses - Students attended the meeting to advocate

for the implementation of Late Buses; (2) Annual Audit - Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2024 -

Superintendent Jason Hartling and Business Manager Kenneth Knight were working with

Auditors CliftonLarsonAllen on the Annual Audit; (3) Water Leak Gallup Hill School - A water

leak that was caused by a water fountain affected 8-classrooms. During the clean up the

classrooms were not used for a several days; (4) Annual Budget Fiscal Year 2025/2026 - Budget

Letter of Directive - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted the Board of Education extensively

discussed the October 24, 2024 Budget Letter of Directive. She noted although the letter did not

instruct the Board of Education to fire teachers, that some members of the Board of Education

questioned the language in the following paragraph:

“While the Town has continued to reduce expenses including the elimination of

departments and our workforce, as technology improvements have enabled

efficiencies, we are once again asking that we work to continue to approach the

preparation of our Fiscal Year 2025/2026 budget with the objective of minimizing

expenses wherever we can find an opportunity and ensure that our tax dollars are

spent wisely”.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that some Board of Education Members questioned whether the

Town Council was instructing the Board of Education to fire teachers. She noted that Board

Members Kate DiPalma-Herb and Joanne Kelley responded explaining that the Budget Letter of

Directive was similar to previous years. She went on to note that Superintendent Hartling stated

that he was not intending to fire anyone, because they already did not have enough teachers; (5)

Mental Health Clinicians - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Board of Education discussed the

Mental Health Clinicians that were being paid from the General Government’s American Rescue

Plan Act (ARPA) Funding. Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted during her Liaison Report that she

tried to provide clarification regarding the use of the General Government ARPA Funding for

the Mental Health Clinicians. She stated that she explained that there were two ARPA

allocations for the Mental Health Clinicians as follows: (a) One Mental Health Clinician was at

the Middle School and that she saw students in the Media Center; and (b) The $90,000 ARPA

Funding that was supporting the Child and Family Agency Clinicians at the Juliet W. Long

School and the Gales Ferry School. She stated after the Meeting Mr. Hartling spoke with her

about the Mental Health Clinician, noting that the Clinician was a Town Employee, and that she

was receiving students. She stated that Mr. Hartling also stated that all of the students’ needs

were being met based on the number of Clinicians they had at each school. Councilor

Garcia-Irizarry stated that she suggested Mr. Hartling send an email to Mayor Allyn, III, and

Chairman Rodriguez to clarify the use of the Clinician at the Middle School.

Councilor Brunelle interjected, stating that she also attended the Board of Education’s

November 12, 2024 meeting, and that during the Public Comment she read the same Mental

Health data that she read at the Town Council’s October 23, 2024 meeting; and that she also

mentioned that her lawn was set on fire. She stated during the Meeting that School

Superintendent Jason Hartling brought up the subject of the Mental Health Clinician. She stated

Mr. Hartling’s statements were confusing, noting that he said that he has given the Middle

School Clinician many referrals; and then he stated that he could give the Clinician referrals, but

because she was a Town Employee, and not a Board of Education Employee, that it was not the

Board of Education’s responsibility to refer students to the Clinicians.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry continued her Board of Education Liaison report as follows: (6)

Amendments to Ordinance #100-015 (rev 1) “An Ordinance Establishing a Permanent

Municipal Building Committee” - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted that School Superintendent

Jason Hartling stated with 2 Temporary Members for each project that he did not believe the

Board of Education had proper representation because the Board of Education was bringing in

the 60% State and Federal Grant Funding for the school projects.

Councilor Dombrowski addressed Mr. Hartling’s comments regarding the Board of Education’s

Temporary Members on the Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC). He explained

that State Statute dictates otherwise, noting that House Bill 5524, which was signed by the

Governor this Legislative Session and became effective on July 1, 2024 stated the following:

“§ 168 - SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP

Requires that school building committees established to undertake a school

building project as defined in Section 10-282 include the school board chair or a

designee.”

Councilor Dombrowski went on to explain that State Statute does not give the Board of

Education control of the Permanent Municipal Building Committee or the funds.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry continued by stating during the Board of Education meetings that they

discuss a lot of misinformation relative to the Town Council. She stated that she would be happy

to clarify the misinformation; however, she stated the Board of Education Members do not ask

her questions, noting that the Board of Education was not using her attendance at their meetings

to their benefit. She went on to state that she has tried to extend an olive branch and that she has

suggested that it would be nice if the Board of Education Members attended the Town Council

meetings, because they could answer questions in real-time and eliminate the misinformation.

She noted that she appreciated that Board of Education Member Mr. Grabner regularly attended

the Town Council meetings.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went on to note Mr. Munger’s comments earlier this evening (see

above V. Residents and Property Owners) and she stated that some Board of Education Members

believe that the Town Council was meddling in the affairs of the Board of Education. She stated

as the stewards of the taxpayers money that Town Council was responsible to make sure the

money was being utilized properly. She stated that it almost comes across that the Board of

Education was its own entity, however, she stated the schools were part of the Town; and at the

end of the day the Town Council and the taxpayers were the ones who approved the Annual

Budget (General Government and Board of Education).

Councilor Brunelle noted before the Board of Education went into executive session at their

November 12, 2024 meeting, she mentioned that during Town Council meetings if there was a

representative at their meeting that the Town Council would ask whether they had anything to

add to the discussion; or whether they wanted to clarify, noting that the Town Council welcomed

their comments. Therefore, she questioned the reason the Board of Education does not ask the

Town Council Liaison to respond to their questions; or to provide clarification during their

meetings. She stated the Board of Education Members responded stating that she had a good

point.

Chairman Rodriguez addressed Councilor Garcia-Irizarry’s Board of Education Liaison Report

noting the following:

·Annual Budget Letter of Directive - Chairman Rodriguez stated the Budget Letter of Directive

has been sent to the Mayor and the Board of Education every year to start the budget process.

She stated the Finance Committee reviews the letter, which was basically a boiler plate

outlining the components of the budget and they provide some updates based on the current

economic climate and financial impacts to the town; and that some recommendations were

made. She stated the Finance Committee votes to forward the Budget Letter of Directive to the

Town Council for action, noting that the Mayor has reviewed the letter, and the letter was on

the meeting portal for members of the public, including the Board of Education Members, to

read and to provide comments via email or letter. She stated the Budget Letter of Directive, and

this process was a standard practice, noting that former Town Council Chairman Dombrowski

could attest to that.

Chairman Rodriguez stated nowhere in the Budget Letter of Directive for Fiscal Year 2025/2026

did it say to fire teachers. She stated that this statement was misinformation and

miscommunication; and should not have been said.

Councilor Dombrowski noted as Chairman Rodriguez stated, the Annual Budget Letter of

Directive was a boiler plate letter that has been used with some minor edits depending on the

budget cycle for the last 14-years he has served on the Town Council. He stated the following

language was suggested by the 2008 Budget Review Transformation Committee and has been

used ever since:

“While the Town has continued to reduce expenses including the elimination of

departments and our workforce, as technology improvements have enabled

efficiencies, we are once again asking that we work to continue to approach the

preparation of our Fiscal Year 2025/2026 budget with the objective of minimizing

expenses wherever we can find an opportunity and ensure that our tax dollars are

spent wisely”.

Councilor Dombrowski explained that the language noted above was asking if Departments had

increases to consider other areas to provide some off-sets. He stated nowhere in the Budget

Letter of Directive does the Town Council direct the Mayor or the Board of Education to fire or

remove employees. He stated that it may suggest that if they had duplicate agencies doing the

same work that they consider combining those duties/responsibilities to gain efficiencies to make

better use of the funds that were available. He stated this language was in the Annual Budget

Letter of Directive when he served as the Town Council Chairman and when Chairman Linda

Davis, Chairman John Rodolico, and Chairman Sean Sullivan served in this capacity. He stated

the Budget Letter of Directive stated that they were aware that there were contractual increases

that have been negotiated, and that living expenses for utilities and materials cost more today

than in previous years. Therefore the Town Council was asking that they look for savings to

reduce the increases.

Mayor Allyn, III, addressed the Budget Letter of Directive noting that he echoed Councilor

Dombrowski’s comments. He went on to state that the letter was actually condensed from what

it once was. He stated in terms of staffing the letter leaves it up to the leaders of each unit to

determine the appropriate staffing level.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry provided clarification, noting that the points that Councilor

Dombrowski made regarding the Budget Letter of Directive were also made by Board of

Education Members Kate DiPalma-Herb and Joanne Kelley, noting that they have both been on

the Board of Education for a longer period of time than some of the other Members.

Chairman Rodriguez noted on July 17, 2024 she received an email from Board of Education

Chairman Anthony Favry in which he suggested Quarterly Leadership Meetings be held with

himself, the Superintendent of Schools, Mayor Allyn, III, and herself. She stated they all thought

it was a great idea, noting that Mayor Allyn suggested they go with Chairman Favry’s schedule

because he traveled for work. However, she stated because no Quarterly Leadership Meetings

were scheduled, that she took the initiative to organize a meeting, noting although Chairman

Favry was not able to attend, that she along with Mayor Allyn and Superintendent Hartling met

on September 23, 2024. She stated that she would reach out to Chairman Favry through a letter

stating that they should meet again and that they would plan for any date that Chairman Favry

was available, noting that she would make herself available. She questioned whether Mayor

Allyn agreed with her suggestion. Mayor Allyn stated that he agreed.

RESULT:

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

XII.

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Mental Health Clinicians - American Rescue

Plan Act Funding (ARPA) - Mayor Allyn stated at the November 6, 2024 Finance Committee

Meeting that he informally floated the idea to take the remaining ARPA Funding from the

Middle School Mental Health Clinician and reallocate it to extend the contract with the Child

and Family Agency to provide services for the 2025-2026 School year. He stated the amount of

funding remaining may not be enough to pay for the full school year, but that it would help. He

stated that the Finance Department was working on a Contract Amendment to extend the Child

and Family Agency’s services. He stated the Child and Family Agency Program has been well

received by both the schools (Juliet W. Long & Gallup Hill School) and staff. He stated the

General Government was reaching across the aisle to provide funding for a need at the schools,

however, he stated it was not within their purview, and was obviously not well received, noting

that they would need to try another route; (2) Early Voting 2024 Presidential Election - Mayor

Allyn stated 3,626 or 35.7% of Ledyard voters cast their Vote Early, 368 or 3.6% Absentee

Votes were cast; and there were 303 Same Day Registration (SDR) voters. He stated Ledyard

cast 4,319 votes before Election Day. He noted that they would expect the Absentee Votes to

increase next year with the new “No Excuse Absentee Ballot”. He stated the State-Wide Average

Turnout was 74.17% ; Ledyard’s turnout was 83.21%; East Hampton had the highest voter

turnout with an 89.64%; and Hartford had the lowest voter turnout with 43%. He stated Ledyard

had the 4th highest voter turnout within their 10-area towns; (3) Demolition 334 Colonel

Ledyard Highway - Mayor Allyn stated the town received this property through a foreclosure for

the non-payment of multiple Blight Liens that had been placed on the property. He stated the

house was demolished and removed from the site. He stated the town was working on the final

preparations to convey the property to Avalonia Land Conservancy as part of the Founders

Preserve conveyance. He noted the townspeople approved the transfer of the property to

Avalonia Land Conservancy at the October 28, 2020 Special Town Meeting; (4) Ledyard Center

Sewer Line Extension Project Phase I - Mayor Allyn stated all the pipe was in the ground and

has been pressure tested. He stated the paving would be done on Monday, November 18, 2024;

which would include the Gallup Hill Intersection and some portions of the Multi-Use Pathway.

He stated work continues on the retaining wall; (5) Ledyard Center Sewer Line Extension

Project Phase III (from Ledyard High School to Pennywise Lane) - Mayor Allyn stated this work

was scheduled to begin on November 30, 2024. He stated that he along with the Town Engineer,

Town Planner, and the Contractors met with the Board of Education to review the aerial view

photos, where the sewer lines would lead, and how the construction work would affect the High

School Property, before moving onto Gallup Hill Road; (6) Energy Assistance Thames Valley

Council for Community Action (TVCCA) - Mayor Allyn stated Ledyard was an intake site for

residents to apply for Energy Assistance. He explained that the town does not have funding to

assist residents with energy, noting that TVCCA was the funding source. He stated to date over

5,200 Energy Assistance Applications have been received, which was more than half of the

Applications TVCCA received last year, noting that they were just beginning the heating season;

(7) Connecticut Main Street Center Webinar - November 4, 2024 - Mayor Allyn explained that

the Connecticut Main Street Center was a subset of the Federally Funding Main Street USA

Program to try to stimulate downtown growth in all 169 Connecticut towns. He stated

Connecticut Main Street Center would be in Ledyard between December 14, 2024 and January

14, 2025. He stated they would do a walking tour of Ledyard Center from the Post Office to the

Bill Library; and a driving tour in Gales Ferry from the area of the Dollar Store to Long Cove

Road and Route 12. He stated Connecticut Main Street Center understands that Ledyard has two

downtown centers, noting that they would be working on both areas conducting a Strengths,

Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis, and provide information which may

tie in with the Route 12 Corridor Study that the town was conducting; (8) School Roof Projects -

Mayor Allyn noted the following: (a) Juliet W. Long School Roof Project has been completed;

and (b) Gales Ferry School Roof Project was continuing to have major issues. He explained that

the Roof Material Company came up from Florida and based on their inspection that was done

on November 11, 2024 they identified that the installation of the roof material was improper,

noting that a lot of the roof panels would have to be removed from the building. He stated this

information would be put in a letter to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC)

and that they were going to start to address the issues; (9) School(s) Consolidation Improvement

Projects (Middle School & Gallup Hill School) - Mayor Allyn stated the State Auditors were at

Town Hall on November 12, 2024 to begin their work. He stated they collected information and

went back to their State Offices to work on the final figures. He stated Colliers Consultant did a

great job with putting all the data together and that they were hopeful that the State Audit would

go smoothy, noting that the State owed Ledyard about $2 million in grant funding for the

projects. He stated once the State released the funding to Ledyard that the town would then go

out to obtain the Final Bonding for the School Project(s); (10) United Way Asset Limited,

Income Constricted, Employed (ALICE) Report - Mayor Allyn noted that 31% of Ledyard

Residents fall within the ALICE classifications, noting that this was up from 21% that was

reported in the 2020 Report. He stated Ledyard was ranked 11th tied with East Lyme. He

explained the drivers of ALICE were housing costs, utility costs, healthcare costs; grocery costs,

and childcare costs; (11) Groton Utilities Public Announcement - Water Services - Mayor Allyn

stated Groton Utilities will be repairing a 12” water main tomorrow night (November 14, 2024).

He stated Water Services would be shut off from Lorenz Parkway north from 10:00 p.m. - 5:00

a.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024; (12) Property Revaluation - Mayor Allyn stated per State

Statute Ledyard’s Property Revaluation was scheduled for next year explaining that the field

surveys would begin this year. He stated Tax Assessor Adrianna Hedwall informed him that the

Field Auditors began work this week and that the work would be completed by Spring 2025. He

went on to explain in accordance with State Statute that Revaluation Forms would be mailed to

every property owner in November, 2025 noting that both the old assessment and new

assessment would be included on the Revaluation Form. He stated that property owners would

have the opportunity to dispute their new assessment through the Board of Assessment Appeals;

(13) Burning Leaves - Mayor Allyn stated that it staggered him to see how many people were

burning leaves in windy conditions, noting that burning leaves was illegal in the entire state of

Connecticut; especially with the dry conditions and the Red Flag Alert Warnings that have been

issued. He stated there have been 150 brush fires in the State. He stated residents could bring

their leaves to the Transfer Station for free, they could mulch them up, compost them, or give

them to someone else to compost…. But do not burn your leaves.

Questions to the Mayor

Councilor Saccone addressed the dry conditions and the Red Flag Alert Warnings, noting that

last night he saw someone flick a cigarette out the car window. He stated that he could see the

sparks bounce off the road. He stated if those sparks made it to the dry vegetation along the side

of the road it could have been a problem.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted that Public Works Director Steve Masalin was present this

evening and she questioned how the PILOT Compost Program was going relative to the

participation, etc. Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin stated since the PILOT

Program began in July, 2024 that he has paid two Blue Earth Compost Invoices. He stated Blue

Earth Compost was servicing 4 - 6 carts per month. He stated for October Blue Earh Compost

picked up 750 pounds of Food Waste from Ledyard’s Transfer Station, which was lower than the

amount that was collected in September. He stated the cost to compost the Food Waste was

costing ten-times more than sending it out with the household trash.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the original arrangement with Blue Earth Compost was

supposed to be $196 per month, regardless of the Food Waste weight. She stated that she has

posted on her social media page that there were still some compost pails available at the Transfer

Station for Free; and that residents could purchase extra compostable bags and extra pails at the

Transfer Station. She stated that there have been a number of positive comments regarding the

PILOT Compost Program, however, she stated that some residents were having difficulty

bringing their Food Waste to the Transfer Station during the regular hours of operation. She

stated that she was looking for ideas on how the town could increase the participation and

solutions that would provide residents with a bigger window on when they could bring their

Food Waste to the Transfer Station.

Mayor Allyn questioned how many residents cannot get to the Transfer Station on Tuesday,

Wednesday, or Saturday. He stated if it was a small number of residents that he would ask how

many residents owned or rented a house where they could have a Southeastern Connecticut

Regional Resource Recovery Authority (SCRRRA) composting bin in their back yard to

compost their food waste at their home. He stated for those living in an apartment having a

SCRRRA composting bin in their back yard was not an option. Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted

that 10-15 residents have brought to her attention through social media their issue about getting

to the Transfer Station during the operating hours. She questioned whether they could try placing

a Food Scrap Collection container in an area that was available 24/7 for a period of time. She

stated if they did not see an increase in participation then they could go back to what they had

been doing.

Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin stated that he was not prepared to speak

about the Compost PILOT Program this evening. He explained that he believed that to operate a

Transfer Station that the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) required

everything to be secured behind fencing. However, he stated he did not know how much

flexibility they would have. He stated there were 23 complementary Compost Starter Kits

remaining from the original 100 Kits. He stated because he expected the PILOT Program would

go past the initial 100 Starter Kits that he spent money and purchased an additional 50 more

Starter Kits. Therefore, he stated based on the number of Kits that have been picked-up that the

town had 77 participants in the PILOT Program.

Councilor Buhle noted the social media posts regarding the Revaluation Field Inspections. She

stated as a Military Community there were a lot of Military Spouses that were home while their

partners were deployed or at work; and she explained that many were not comfortable with

allowing someone into their home. Therefore, she questioned what would happen if someone

were to decline the Revaluation Field Inspector to enter into their home. Mayor Allyn, III, stated

that the property owner did not have to allow the Revaluation Field Inspectors into their home.

However, he explained that the Revaluation Company would then send a Data Mailer that

would ask the property owner to provide information regarding their home such as: the kitchen,

bathrooms, were they dated, were they new, did the home have hardwood floors, central air

conditioning, etc. He stated once the form was completed the property owner would be required

to sign and attest to authenticity of the information and that they would be required to return the

Data Mailer to the Revaluation Company. He stated the revaluation would be based on the

information the property owner provided in the Data Mailer.

Chairman Rodriguez stated that she has heard some residents say that they were not going to let

the Revaluation Field Inspectors into their house, because their taxes would go up, noting that

they made improvements to their home without obtaining the proper building permits. She noted

the resident stated if they do not allow the Revaluation Field Inspectors into their house that the

town would not find out about the improvements until they sold their house.

Mayor Allyn stated Municipalities were statutorily required to conduct a Revaluation of property

every five years. He stated he saw a social media post that said the town should mail notices to

every household to inform them about the Revaluation. However, he stated the Revaluation was

similar to the Annual Budget Referendum. He stated the town voted on a Budget every year, and

that Property Revaluations were conducted every five years, and that they have for the past

75-years. He stated that he has seen a lot of angry responses about the Revaluation, noting that

he only learned yesterday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. that the Revaluation Field Inspectors were

already working in Ledyard. He went on to note that the next Revaluation was going to be done

in four years, because the Governor adjusted the next cycle to try to get a number of towns on the

same Revaluation schedule to try to save money.

Chairman Rodriguez questioned what would happen if the property owner was not home when

the Revaluation Field Inspector stopped by. Mayor Allyn stated that they would leave a note on

the door stating that Vision Appraisal stopped by their home, and would allow the people to

make appointments for them to revisit the property to see the inside of their home.

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

Administration Committee

MOTION to adopt proposed Amendments to Ordinance #100-015 (rev.1) "An Ordinance

Establishing a Permanent Municipal Building Committee for the Town of Ledyard" as presented

in the draft dated September 11, 2024.

DRAFT 9/11/2024

Ordinance # 100-015 (rev.1)

AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING

A PERMANENT MUNICIPAL BUILDING COMMITTEE

FOR THE TOWN OF LEDYARD

Be it ordained by the Town Council of the Town of Ledyard

Section 1. Authority

Pursuant to Chapter IV, Section 7 of the Town Charter, a Permanent Municipal Building

Committee is hereby established.

Section 2. Purpose

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall have continued responsibility for the

execution of major select construction and maintenance projects for the Town of Ledyard as

assigned by the Town Council. The Permanent Municipal Building Committee will oversee

and supervise the design, construction, renovation, demolition and removal of Town and Board

of Education buildings that fall within the approved budget, as well as any significant

installation, renovation or upgrade of service

equipment and major systems as provided herein.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee may have responsibility for the execution of

buildings or infrastructure projects associated with the provisions of water and/or sewer, if

deemed appropriate by the Town Council.

For projects whose total project cost is estimated to exceed $500,000, an Owner’s

Representative and/or Consulting Engineer shall be hired through a quality-based selection

process to assist the Permanent Municipal Building Committee with management and

oversight of such project(s). The Owner’s Representative or Consulting Engineer shall not

have authority to make decisions, approvals, or otherwise act on behalf of the Permanent

Building Committee unless specifically

designated to do so by contract. The Owner’s Representative or Consulting Engineer shall be

required to have the requisite experience, knowledge, qualifications, personnel and capacity

necessary to manage such a project.

The selection of an Owner’s Representative or Consulting Engineer shall be publicly

advertised through a Request for Proposal to solicit proposals from interested parties. The

Request for Proposal shall provide a clear scope of services that specifies the roles and

responsibilities of the Owner’s Representative or Consulting Engineer. Where possible, it

shall clearly specify the level of oversight during construction so that proposals from multiple

firms can be clearly leveled during the evaluation process.

The selection of the Owner’s Representative or Consulting Engineer shall be awarded to

the firm that provides the best value to the Town of Ledyard. The best value is defined as the

firm providing the highest quality, expertise, and knowledge for the proposed project. This

shall also include the quality of referrals from a minimum of three references provided by the

proposers. It shall also consider the fee for the work; however, the fee shall not be the sole

basis for award.

When a project involves the purchase of replacement equipment costing more than

$500,000, a waiver to bypass the solicitation of bids for the engagement of an Owner’s

Representative or Consulting Engineer may be approved by the Town Council; as requested

by the Permanent Municipal Building Committee prior to purchase and installation of the

equipment.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall comply with provisions provided in

Ordinance 200-001 (rev.1) (An Ordinance for Purchasing) with regard to the competitive bid

process; and shall interview a minimum of two firms prior to selection. Should only one firm

be determined qualified to perform such work, the Permanent Municipal Building Committee

may request a waiver for such a requirement should the firm’s proposal be reasonable for the

proposed scope of work.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall make a written recommendation to

the Town Council for the award of such services. The recommendation shall include a

summary of proposers, a weighed ranking sheet for the selection, and reasons why the

Permanent Municipal Building Committee is recommending such a firm. The final decision

of award will lie with the Town Council. The Town Council possesses the authority to reject

the recommendation and refer it back to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee for

further action relative to making another recommendation for the award of such services in

the best interest of the Town of Ledyard.

Where external funding sources are used to fund the project, such requirements of the

funding authority shall apply to the selection process as well. Where conflicts occur between

this ordinance and the funding authority’s requirements, the most stringent requirement(s)

shall be applicable as determined by Mayor or their designee.

The Requests for Proposals for Owner’s Representatives or Consulting Engineers is

subject to review by the Town Director of Finance. The Director of Finance is responsible for

ensuring that all required local and state purchasing requirements are met and that all

insurance requirements are included in the Request for Proposal.

From time to time, the Permanent Municipal Building Committee may be asked to undertake

certain studies or projects by the Town Council. In case of multiple projects, the Town Council

may form a separate building committee for a particular project.

Section 3. Membership

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall consist of the following members

appointed by the Town Council:

Regular Members: Five (5). These members, to the extent possible, shall include those with

experience in finance, engineering, architecture, project management, or the building trades.

They shall be appointed by the Town Council for a term of three (3) years.

Temporary Members: For each municipal project, up to two (2) temporary members who are

a member or representative of the Proposing Body shall be appointed by the Town Council.

For Board of Education projects, at least one of their two temporary members shall be the a

Board of Education Chairman or their designee member. Board of Education Temporary

Members shall be appointed by the Town Council.

Temporary Members shall serve for the term of the project they have been appointed for.

Temporary members shall have the right to vote on the activities of the Permanent Municipal

Building Committee only with respect to the particular project for which such members were

appointed.

Ex-Officio Members: The Town Finance Director, Public Works Director, Board of

Education Business Manager and/or his designee, Board of Education Director of Facilities and

Grounds, Town Engineering Technician, Town Planner and the Permanent Municipal Building

Committee’s Town Council Liaison shall be non-voting ex-officio members.

Quorum: A quorum shall consist of a majority of Regular voting members.

Section 4. Terms of appointment

Regular members shall be appointed by the Town Council for a term of three (3) years.

Members shall commence to serve their terms immediately upon appointment and shall serve

until their successor has qualified or they have been reappointed or removed by the Town

Council.

Any vacancy in the Permanent Municipal Building Committee other than by expiration of term

shall be filled for the unexpired portion of the term by the Town Council. The Town Council

may remove members for cause and fill the vacancy per Chapter IV, Section 6 of the Town

Charter.

Cause for removal shall include, but is not limited to, unexcused absence from three (3)

consecutive regular meetings and any intervening duly called special meeting.

Any member of the Permanent Municipal Building Committee who is absent from three (3)

consecutive regular meetings and any intervening duly called special meetings shall be considered

to have resigned from the Permanent Municipal Building Committee. The vacancy shall be filled

as herein before provided. Additionally, the Permanent Municipal Building Committee may vote

to waive the requirements of this section in each case where illness or other extenuating

circumstances make it impossible for a member to meet the attendance requirements of this

action.

It shall be the responsibility of the Chairman of the Permanent Municipal Building Committee to

notify the Town Council when a member has not properly performed his duties.

Annually, the regular members of the Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall elect a

Chairman, Vice Chairman and Secretary. Any vacancy in any such office shall be filled by the

Permanent Municipal Building Committee from its regular membership.

Section 5. Powers and Duties

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is authorized to develop design plans and

drawings for municipal building projects directed by the Town Council, primarily in accordance

with the Town’s Capital Improvements Projects List.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is authorized to recommend to the Mayor

to retain the services of architects and/or engineers for the purpose of planning, designing,

building and administrating major capital projects. The process shall utilize a quality-based

selection similar to that outlined in Section 2 for the Owner’s Representative or Consulting

Engineer. Such selection shall be based on experience, knowledge, capacity and expertise as

well as the fee for performing such work.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is authorized to interview architects and/or

engineers for the purpose of planning, designing, building and completing municipal building

projects, and based on said interviews and cost estimates, to hire suitable candidates. When an

Owner’s Representative is required for the project, the Permanent Building Committee shall

provide a recommendation for the hiring of an Owner’s Representative prior to selecting the

architect and/or engineer, so that the Owner’s Representative may assist with the development

of the Request for Proposal, the selection process, project control budgets, project schedules,

contracts and other material necessary to properly solicit comprehensive proposals by

interested firms.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is authorized to develop schedules and cost

estimates budgets for municipal building projects. However, when an Owner’s Representative

is required, the Owner’s Representative shall be responsible for drafting such schedules and

budgets; and shall be approved by the Permanent Municipal Building Committee. The

Owner’s Representative shall also be responsible for developing a project cash flow projection

for review by the Town Director of Finance, as approved by the Permanent Municipal

Building Committee.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is authorized to recommend to the Mayor the

execution of municipal building project contracts as may be approved by the Town Council.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall have authority over all change order

requests. The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall also coordinate all applications

for grants and other financial assistance documents except for school construction grants

through the Department of Education. Such grant applications are the responsibility of the

Superintendent of Schools and the Board of Education. The Permanent Municipal Building

Committee shall submit change orders and grants/financial assistance documentation to the

appropriate authority in a timely manner and with timely notification to the Town Council. The

Town Council is the authority to modify or change the scope of the project.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall at least quarterly report its activity to

the Town Council and to the Proposing Body, if applicable; and shall submit a final report upon

completion of each project. The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is also authorized to

conduct periodic reviews and audits of the physical condition of all municipal and school

buildings and grounds, including service equipment and major systems and make

recommendations to the Town Council for inclusion into the Town’s Capital Improvements

Projects List and should work with the Mayor’s Office and the appropriate boards and

commissions and agencies.

It is understood that the agencies assigned responsibility for specific buildings, grounds,

capital, and facilities shall assess, prioritize, seek funding and actively support administration of

projects assigned to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee.

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee shall, with assistance from the Proposing

Body ensure that projects are completed, including the close-out of required reports, in a timely

manner.

Section 6. Spending Funds

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee may expend such funds as the Town Council, or

if required the Town Meeting, may appropriate to carry out its duties as described herein. There

shall be no intermingling of funding between projects.

Section 7. Definitions:

For the purpose of this Ordinance, the following definitions shall apply:

“Major maintenance” shall include capital building/improvement projects and projects

that are capital in nature; that is, having a useful life of five or more years.

“Major maintenance” shall not include routine maintenance and upkeep of a building or other

structures, or its service equipment, which is performed on a regular basis.

“Service equipment and major systems” shall include boilers, elevators, generators,

HVAC systems, septic systems, fire alarms, electrical service including wiring and fixtures,

major plumbing service, building skin (roofs, gutters, masonry, windows, exterior paint, floor

covering, etc.) It shall not include information system technology (computers and computer

systems).

3).

“Proposing Body” means the Town of Ledyard appointed or elected board or commission

sponsoring or requesting a construction or major maintenance project or for a project initiated by

the Permanent Building Committee itself, the board or commission whose facility would be the

recipient thereof.

Section 7. Severability

If any provision of this Ordinance shall be held invalid by a court having competent

jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect any of the other provisions of this Ordinance that can

be given effect without the invalid provision and for this purpose the provisions of the Ordinance

are hereby declared severable.

Section 8. Effective Date

In accordance with the Town Charter this ordinance shall become effective on the

twenty-first (21st) day after such publication following its final passage.

Amended, Adopted and Renumbered by the Ledyard Town Council on: __________

____________________

S. Naomi Rodriguez, Chairman

Approved/Disapproved on:________

__________________________

Fred B. Allyn, III, Mayor

Published on:

Effective Date:

_________________________

Patricia A. Riley, Town Clerk

************************************************************************

Revisions: Ordinance #119 “An Ordinance Establishing a Permanent Municipal Building

Committee for the Town of Ledyard” Adopted March 26, 2008; Ordinance #138 “An Ordinance

Amending an Ordinance Establishing a Permanent Municipal Building Committee for the Town

of Ledyard: Adopted June 24, 2015; Effective: July 31, 2015; Ordinance renumbered from

Ordinance #138 to Ordinance #100-015 as part of the Town Council’s 2017-2019 Ordinance

Update Initiative; September 25, 2019.

History:

The Twenty-fourth Town Council (2017- 2019) Ordinance Update Initiative: Renumbered

Ordinance #138 to Ordinance #100-015.

2015: Removed the project threshold of $25,000 requiring all capital building/improvement

projects and projects that are capital in nature; that is, having a useful life of five or more years

be assigned to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee.

2019: Title - Removed “Ordinance Amending” - Per Town Attorney not required. Section 4

added language regarding members attendance relative to resignation/replacement. Removed

Section 9 “Cancellation” - Per Town Attorney the “Cancellation Section” was not needed. The

“Revisions” and “History” paragraph indicates that the previous ordinance has been updated and

replaced. Added new Section 9 “Effective Date” to be consistent with Town Ordinance format.

2024: Section 2 “Purpose” Paragraph 1 replaced the word major with “select” and

Added Paragraphs 2 - 6.

Section 3: “Membership” Added: “…..Chairman or their designee. Also, the following

language was added for clarification: Board of Education Temporary Members shall be

appointed by the Town Council”

“Public Works Director, Board of Education Director of Facilities and Grounds.

Section 5 “Powers and Duties”:

Paragraph 2- The following language was replaced: The Permanent Municipal Building

Committee is authorized to interview architects and/or engineers for the purpose of planning,

designing, building and completing municipal building projects, and based on said interviews

and cost estimates, to hire suitable candidates. “ When an Owner’s Representative is required

for the project, the Permanent Building Committee shall provide a recommendation for the

hiring of an Owner’s Representative prior to selecting the architect and/or engineer so that

the Owner’s Representative may assist with the development of the Request for Proposal, the

selection process, project control budgets, project schedules, contracts and other material

necessary to properly solicit comprehensive proposals by interested firms”.

Paragraph 3: Replaced: cost estimates with “budgets” Also added: “However, when an

Owner’s Representative is required, the Owner’s Representative shall be responsible for

drafting such schedules and budgets. The Owner’s Representative shall also be responsible

for developing a project cash flow projection for review by the Town Director of Finance

NEW Paragraph 4

Paragraph 5 Added the following language: except for school construction grants through

the Department of Education. Such grant applications are the responsibility of the

Superintendent of Schools and the Board of Education.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Brunelle

Discussion: Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated a Public Hearing was held on October 23, 2024,

noting that one resident inquired about the availability of the Permanent Municipal Building

Committee to help other town commissions with their Capital Improvement Projects.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went on to note that Ordinance #100-015 (rev.1) “An Ordinance

Establishing a Permanent Municipal Building Committee for the Town of Ledyard” was being

amended to provide language for the hiring of an Owners Representative or Consulting Engineer

for Projects exceeding $500,000. The intent of this provision was to provide support and

oversight of the process and to review the activities on a daily basis, working in conjunction with

the volunteer members of the Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC). She

explained by having professionals regularly on the construction site would help to ensure that

timelines were followed, and to enable problems that arise to be addressed and adjudicated in a

timely fashion. In addition, the amendments provided additional clarification.

V9-O0TAEp:proved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

April Brunelle

RESULT:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan,

Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

Finance Committee

MOTION to authorize the Mayor to issue a “Letter of Commitment” to Avalonia Land

Conservancy, Inc., in response to their request of $80,000 from Account

#210-101210-12101-58920 (Open Space Fund) to provide financial support with the acquisition

of 154 Stoddard’s Wharf Road 35.95+/- acres of Open Space; to be payable to Avalonia Land

Conservancy, Inc, Seller or closing law firm at the time of the closing.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, explained in accordance with Ordinance #200-009 “An Ordinance

Providing for a the Transfer of Certain Revenue from Real Estate Conveyance Tax to Specific

Town of Ledyard Funds” that “…….A sum equal to forty percent (40%) of the money thus

received shall be deposited to Fund 8, the Parks and Recreation Capital and Non- Recurring

Expense Fund; an additional forty percent (40%) of said money shall be deposited to Fund 6,

Capital and Non-Recurring Funds, to be used only for capital/infrastructure expenses; and the

remaining twenty percent (20%) of said money shall be deposited to Fund 6, Capital and Non

Recurring Funds, with an Acquisition of Open Space Allocation.”

Mayor Allyn noted that the Open Space Account had a $501,000 balance. He stated that the

town had previously allocated funding from the Open Space Account to Avalonia Land

Conservancy to help with the acquisition of a property that Avalona Land Conservancy did not

end up acquiring. However, he stated Avalonia Land Conservancy President Dennis Main

approached the town to seek financial assistance for Avalonia Land Conservancy acquire 154

Stoddard’s Wharf Road 35.95+/- acres of Open Space.

Mayor Allyn reviewed the attached map explaining that 154 Stoddard’s Wharf Road was

identified as the yellow parcel and that the green parcels were currently open space. Therefore,

he stated the acquisition of this parcel was in a good location for the connection of the Tri-Town

Trail (Bluff Point to Preston Plains Park). He noted that Avalonia Land Conservancy President

Dennis Main was attending tonight’s meeting via Zoom and he invited him to provide additional

information regarding the acquisition of this parcel.

Avalonia Land Conservancy President Dennis Main, attending remotely, thanked the Town Council

and Mayor Allyn, III, for their support and for considering the funding request to assist with the

acquisition of 154 Stoddard’s Wharf Road 35.95+/- acres to be preserved as Open Space. He

stated Avalonia Land Conservancy was looking to create some Greenways and Habitat

Connections by daisy chaining the parcels in that area. He stated 154 Stoddard’s Wharf Road

would also help the Tri-Town Trail Association to eventually get their connectivity.

Mr. Main continued by thanking the Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee for their work

with the Historic District Commission to obtain a Historic Preservation Designation of the

Spicer Homestead Ruins. He stated that his Grandmother’s Grandfather, Price Spicer, was the

last descendent of a long line of Spicers that lived at that Homestead.

Mr. Main also addressed the demolition of 334 Colonel Ledyard Highway, as Mayor Allyn

reported earlier this evening. He stated the Founders Preserve was going to be a great Preserve,

noting in his recent visit to the property he counted 23 Great Blue Herons, including chicks that

were nesting. He stated it was an awesome habitat where the Old Paint Mill Pond was. He stated

being able to offer bow hunting on the Founders Preserve Property to more constituents, as

allowed by Ordinance#100-018 (rev. 1) "An Ordinance Providing Archery Hunting on Certain

Town Owned Lands and Certain Open Space Properties", would be something new for

Avalonia Land Conservancy. He stated he would like to take a moment to remember Virgina

Lamb who recently passed away from cancer, noting that she grew up next to the Founders

Preserve Property. He stated Ms. Lamb was the Valedictorian of the First Ledyard High School

Graduating Class of 1967; and that her mother Ellen worked at Town Hall for many years.

Mr. Main concluded his remarks by again thanking Mayor Alllyn, III, and the Town Council for

their support of Avalonia Land Conservancy.

VOTE:

9- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan,

Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

MOTION to appropriate $27,950 to Account #21020301-57300-G0015 (Fire Marshall - New

Equipment - Miscellaneous Grants).

In addition, authorize the expenditure of up to $27,950 for radio equipment upgrades to the

Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

The funding source for this project is the Town of Ledyard’s FY 2025 Nuclear Safety

Emergency Program Funding Allocation (2025-45).

MOTION to update the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Projects List and allocation to add

the Town Hall Vertical Lift Project in the amount of up-to $135,000.

In addition, grant a Bid Waiver to Lifeway Mobility in the amount of $45,600 for the installation

of a Town Hall Vertical Lift, to meet ARPA Projects December 31, 2024, deadline.

Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, noted that Director of Emergency Management/Fire Marshall Jim

Mann apologized that he was not able to attend tonight’s meeting, noting that he was still out

doing inspections this evening.

Mayor Allyn noted that this was a Nuclear Safety Emergency Program Funding (NSEF) Grant,

and he explained that the town was required to purchase the equipment and that the NSEF

Program would reimburse the town 100%.

Councilor Saccone stated the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was located in the basement

of the High School explaining that the radio reception at the EOC was poor. He stated this

upgraded equipment would help with better reception during the use of the Emergency

Operation Center.

VOTE:

9- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan,

Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

MOTION to update the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Projects List as follows:

Remove the Erickson Park Enhancements $55,000 from the ARPA Projects List.

Add the following Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Center Projects to the ARPA Projects

List:

ü Gales Ferry Tennis Court Repairs

$22,478.00

$9,930.00

$11,556.00

ü Senior Center Floor Main Room $11,255.00

ü GF Basketball Court Repairs

ü GF Fence Replacement

ü Senior Center Kitchen Floor

ü Senior Center Vestibule Floor

$3,629.00

$1,028.00

ü TOTAL:

$59,876.00

In addition, reallocate the $55,000 from the Erickson Park Improvements plus an additional

$4,875 for a total allocation in the amount of $59,876 for the Parks, Recreation & Senior

Citizens Center Projects. Source of additional ARPA funding transfer to be determined.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Parks, Recreation, & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr., attending remotely,

addressed the proposal to expand the parking area at the Erickson Park. He explained that a lot

of work has been done at the Erickson Park to redirect the water to prevent the boat launch from

washing out, noting that swales, rift raff, and a rain garden have been installed.

Mr. Johnson went on to explain when they looked into paving the designated area of the parking

lot at the Erickson Park that they found that they would be eliminating the absorption area for the

water; and also found that expanding the parking lot would cause more drainage issues. He went

on to explain that if they expanded the parking lot they would need to install a retaining wall,

which would add to the cost of the project. Therefore, he stated he was suggesting that they

abandon the Erickson Park Parking Lot Improvement Project and redirect the $55,000 ARPA

Funding; and allocate an additional $4,876 for a total allocation in the amount of $59,876 to

facilitate the Projects listed above.

Mr. Johnson continued by reviewing the following projects:

ü Gales Ferry Tennis Court Repairs - $22,478.00 - Repair cracks in the surface, install new

sleeves, posts and tennis nets. The contractor for the crack repairs was a Sourcewell

Contractor.

ü Gales Ferry Basketball Court Repairs $9,930.00 - Repair cracks in the surface.

ü Gales Ferry Fence Replacement $11,556.00 - Repair cracks, and fence footings. A new fence

would not be installed.

ü Senior Center Floor Main Room - $11,255.00 - Remove the tile and install the epoxy

concrete flooring material, similar to what they did at the Public Works Garage.

ü Senior Center Kitchen Floor - $3,629.00- Remove the tile and install the epoxy concrete

flooring material, similar to what they did at the Public Works Garage. The epoxy flooring

was being done by a vendor who was on the State Bid List.

ü Senior Center Vestibule Floor $1,028.00 - Remove the tile and install the epoxy concrete

flooring material, similar to what they did at the Public Works Garage.

Mr. Johnson went on to explain that the Senior Center received a separate American Rescue

Plan Act (ARPA) disbursement from the State to be used specifically for Senior Centers. He

stated that these funds would be used to replace the carpet and a number of other improvements.

However, he stated under the Senior Center ARPA Funding they did not have enough money to

address the flooring in the Main Room, Kitchen, and Vestibule. He stated redirecting the

Erickson Park Improvement Funding to replace the tile flooring in the Senior Center would bring

that entire area of the building up-to-date.

Councilor Saccone thanked Mr. Johnson for his work in putting this Project List together in a

short amount of time to redirect these ARPA Funding before the December 31, 2024 deadline.

He stated the Projects List Mr. Johnson presented included some great projects that have been in

need of repair/replacement for a number of years. He stated using the ARPA Funding was a great

opportunity to fulfill those needs.

Mayor Allyn, III, addressed abandoning the Erickson Park Enhancement Project to expand the

Parking Lot, explaining when the Contractors visited the site they determined that cutting the

grade out would lead to more drainage runoff and potentially blow out the new boat launch. He

also noted that because they would need to build a retaining wall that it would eliminate the

ability for the mowers to drive up to that area. He stated in assessing the Erickson Park

Enhancement Project to expand the parking lot they found that a lot more would be required to

mitigate the drainage and other issues, noting that it was not going to be a cost-effective project.

Councilor Dombrowski stated he was not opposed to abandoning the Erickson Park

Enhancement Projects; or with moving forward with the projects presented this evening.

However, he questioned whether $55,000 for the Erickson Park Enhancement Project; or these

additional projects were included in the Capital Improvement Plan, noting that the ARPA

Projects List was included in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that was approved as part of

Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Budget.

Councilor Ryan responded to Councilor Dombrowski stating that the ARPA Projects List was

included in the overall budget plan; noting that that he would need to look back to check on how

the ARPA Projects were handled relative to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). He went on to

state that some of the Erickson Park Enhancement Projects were completed. However, he noted

as Mayor Allyn explained, they found that any additional work to the Parking Lot area would be

detrimental to the work that was already done at Erickson Park.

Councilor Dombrowski explained that the Planning Commission was the authority that reviewed

the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), not the Town Council. Therefore, he stated that he wanted

to make sure they were not bypassing that process. Mr. Johnson stated that the Parks and

Recreation Commission approved and put some projects forward for Erickson Park which

included the stone dust path and redirecting the path to allow the parking lot project to take place

with the use of the ARPA Funding. However, he stated that the Parks and Recreation

Commission did not approve the projects through their Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).

Mayor Allyn stated the following Parks and Recreation projects were included in the Capital

Improvement Plan (CIP); Storage Container, Pickleball Court; Automated Locks; Blonders Park

Basketball Court Repairs; and Judge Crandall Park Door. He stated the Projects presented this

evening were not included in the Capital Improvement Plan. Councilor Dombrowski stated

based on the list of projects that were included in the Capital Improvement Plan that he was

comfortable with the motion as presented this evening.

VOTE:

9- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan,

Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

MOTION to transfer and appropriate $100,446 to CNR account # 21012103-53305 Revaluation

from CNR account # 21090305-58915 Undesignated.

Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, stated as he reported earlier this evening (see above XI Mayor’s

Report), that in accordance with State Statute Ledyard was required to conduct a full

Revaluation this year. He stated based on an estimated cost of $187,000; and in preparation for

the Revaluation that funding has been allocated to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the

past few years.

Mayor Allyn went on to explain that because the town only received two bids, at their August

14, 2024 meeting the Town Council granted a Bid Waiver to Vision Government Solution. He

stated both of the bids received came in higher than the $187,000 that was budgeted noting that

Vision Government Solutions in the amount of $257,00 was both the better value and lower

cost. Therefore, he stated this request was to appropriate $100,446 to provide adequate funding

to cover the cost of the Revaluation.

V9-O0TAEp:proved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tim Ryan

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan,

Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

General Business

MOTION to cancel the Town Council’s Regular Meeting of November 27, 2024 for the

Thanksgiving Holiday.

Moved by Chairman Rodriguez, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: None.

VOTE:

9- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

S. Naomi Rodriguez

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan,

Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Buhle moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Brunelle

VOTE:

9 - 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 8:28 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 November 13, 2024.

____________________________________