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, October 23, 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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Audio Only: Telephone: +1 646 558 8656; Meeting ID: 832 8970 0776; Passcode: 222245

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

Chairman S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Tony Saccone

Councilor Gary St. Vil

Present:

Councilor Gary Paul

Excused:

Councilor Tim Ryan

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

None.

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

MINUTES

Mr. Michael Cherry, 5 Whippoorwill Drive, Gales Ferry, attending remotely, noted

comments that have been made at multiple Commission meetings regarding housing needs in

Ledyard. He stated that he forwarded to the Town Council the Connecticut Housing

Authority Needs Analysis which was included on the Communications List for tonight’s

meeting. He stated the information he provided was tailored to New London

County/Ledyard; noting that they could access the full Eastern Connecticut Housing Profile

from the data he provided. He stated when they talk about housing that it was important that

they use the same set of facts. He stated the Connecticut Housing Authority was a good and

recognized source. He stated that he also asked the Planning & Zoning Commission

Chairman if he would sponsor an outside speaker to present the most recent information,

noting that it was important that they all understand the problems going forward.

This was ..to the Town Council due back on 11/13/2024

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Councilor Brunelle stated last week while she was driving by Little Learners Children’s

Center on Gallup Hill Road that she saw a vehicle pulled over with a woman crouched

outside the vehicle with her hand on her heart; holding her cellphone. She stated that she and

her husband pulled over to see if they could assist the woman. She stated that she sat next to

the woman and told her who she was and that she was here to help, and that she wanted to

make sure she was okay. She stated the woman reached her hand out to her, noting that she

was having a panic attack. She stated that she held the woman’s hand while her husband

made sure the woman’s dogs were okay. Councilor Brunelle stated it was sad to hear the

woman say that no one would stop to help her. She stated while she sat with the woman not a

single car stopped to see if the woman was okay and that no one who drove by called

emergency responders to check on the woman. She stated after about 20 minutes the woman

got through the panic attack and was able to drive herself home. However, Councilor

Brunelle stated as a town that we need to do better to help a person in distress. She stated

even if you are afraid to stop that you can call Emergency 911 so that the Police or the Fire

Department could check on the person to make sure they were okay.

Councilor Saccone stated Halloween was next Thursday, noting that it was getting dark

earlier and the Trick or Treaters were going to be out. He reminded both pedestrians and

motorists to use caution so that all would have a safe and fun Halloween.

Chairman Rodriguez stated the Parks & Recreation Trunk or Treat was scheduled for Friday,

October 25, 2024. She stated for sensory children the event would start at 5:30 p.m. and for

all others the event would start at 6:30 p.m.

Chairman Rodriguez went on to announce that Early Voting has begun, and that it was being

held from October 21 - November 3, 2024 in the Lower Level of the Town Hall. She stated

the Presidential Election Day was November 5, 2024.

Councilor Buhle stated that she was excited for the Annual Trunk or Treat event, noting that

it was one of her favorite events, with the beautiful fall foliage in New England. She stated

that she grew up in Illinois where they had no trees and lots of corn fields. She stated that she

was grateful that they lived in an area that has beautiful forests.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that he would add to the comments regarding the enjoyment

of the beautiful fall foliage here in Ledyard. However, he stated they were having drought

conditions because they have not had rain for quite some time, noting that a Fire Alert has

been issued. He commented on the fire at Lamentation Mountain in Berlin, and he stated that

he would like to extend his condolences to the firefighters, and especially to the family of the

firefighter who lost his life yesterday battling the fire. He reminded smokers not to throw

their cigarettes out the car window; and for all to be careful.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry addressed the Food Waste Compost PILOT Program that Ledyard

began in July, 2024. She stated a number of residents picked up the Compost Starter Kits,

and that Kits were still available at the Transfer Station for residents to pick up for free. She

stated the compostable bags and extra compost pails can be purchased at the Transfer

Station. She stated because the Transfer Station was only open Tuesday, Wednesday, and

Saturday from 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. that residents were having difficulty getting their food

waste to the Transfer Station because they worked during the day. She suggested locating a

Food Waste Collection Bin outside of the Transfer Station to allow better access for

residents and to increase participation; explaining that they would be evaluating the

Compost PILOT Program to determine whether the cost per ton for either Blue Earth

Compost or Southeastern Regional Resource Recovery Authority (SCRRRA) to pick up the

Food Waste was going to be sustainable. She stated that she would appreciate ideas to make

the Program more accessible to residents. She went on to state that she did not envision

Ledyard’s PILOT Program, which required residents to bring their food waste to the Transfer

Station, to be permanent because it was her understanding that the State would be

implementing a program requiring residents to separate Food Waste from Household Trash;

noting that the food waste would probably be picked up at the curbside.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the Town Council Meeting Minutes of October 9, 2024.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications List - October 23, 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 has a number of items on

tonight’s agenda.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

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

Inclusion met on October 16, 2024 and she noted the following: (1) Transparency and

Governance Training Initiative - Councilor Brunelle stated that tomorrow the Committee would

be sending a Memo to all Town Departments requesting that they prepare a presentation that

would help residents understand the function of their Department and how they could access the

resources their Department provides to the town. She stated the presentation could be a PowerPoint

and/or Video; and they could submit their presentations electronically; or they could give their

presentation in person at a meeting. She stated that the Committee was hoping to have the

presentations by June 30, 2025; and (2) Informal Conversation - Pickleball Courts - Councilor

Brunelle stated that the Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

would be hosting an Informal Conversation at the Gales Ferry Community Center on Thursday,

November 7, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. for Parks & Recreation Director Scott Johnson, Jr. to provide

information regarding proposals to construct Pickleball Courts at Winthrop Park.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee met on October 16, 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 has not met since the last Town Council

meeting; however, he stated they had one item on tonight’s Agenda.

RESULT:

Planning & Zoning Commission

Councilor St. Vil stated the Planning & Zoning Commission will continue their Public

Hearing regarding the Application for the former Dow Chemical/Styrenics Site in Gales

Ferry on Thursday, October 24, 2024. The Public Hearing will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the

Ledyard Middle School, 1860 Route 12, Gales Ferry. He noted that the Public Hearing would

be in a Hybrid Format providing both in-person and remote participation via Zoom.

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

Councilor Brunelle stated the PMBC’s next meeting was scheduled for November 4, 2024.

Library Commission

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Library Commission met on October 21, 2024 and

discussed the following: (1) Resignation - Rebecca Nash - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated

after 20 years of service on the Library Commission that Ms. Nash would not be seeking

reappointment when her term ends in November, 2024. She thanked Ms. Nash for her many

years of service, noting that she would be missed; (2) Toy Library - Both the Bill Library and

Gales Ferry Library would be unveiling a “Toy Library” on October 30, 2024; (3) New

Circulation Desk - Bill Library - The new American Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible desk

has been installed. Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted the desk was purchased with funding

received from the American Library Association - Libraires Transforming Communities

Round II Grant Program; (4) Friends of Library provides funding for things such as: (a)

Museum Passes to the Nature Center, Florence Griswold Museum, Mystic Seaport;

Mashantucket Museum, Slater Museum, and the Niantic Children’s Museum; (b) Constant

Contact Newsletter; and (c) Hoopla Digital Services - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry explained

that Hoopla was an Audio and Ebooks Service. She noted that the Friends of Library

partially funds the Service (8 months $10,000). However, she stated the remaining four

months would be paid from the Library’s Operating Budget. Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated

that Ebooks cost more than the paper books; and because of the number of people using the

Hoopla Services the monthly costs have continued to increase.

Board of Education

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated although she was not able to attend the Board of Education’s

October 8, 2024 meeting that she reviewed their Minutes and that she wanted to note the

following: (1) Approved Board of Education Bylaw #9110 for Membership - Councilor

Garcia-Irizarry explained when a vacancy occurred on the Board of Education that it would

now be announced through a Special Communication from the Board, noting that in the past

it was announced at a Regular Meeting. She also noted that the Board would now allow a

minimum of two weeks from the Special Communication Announcement before the

replacement was made; (2) Referred the Election of Officers Bylaw #9120 back to the Policy

Committee - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry explained under the former Bylaw the election of the

Chairman required five votes. If the vote was 4 to 4 and if the nine-member Board could not

reach a consensus that the Town Council would choose the Board of Education Chairman.

She went on to note under the new Election of Officers Bylaw that if Officers were not

chosen after two months because of the inability of any one Board Member to receive five

affirmative votes for an office, the member of the majority party with the most consecutive

seniority would assume the role until the next Organizational Meeting in December. She

went on to explain that should that member choose to decline; the next senior member would

assume the role until a Chairperson has been appointed; and (3) Fiscal Year 2025/2026

Budget Preparation - Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted that the Board of Education began

discussing the budget preparation.

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

XII.

Mayor Allyn, III reported on the following: (1) Early Voting - Mayor Allyn stated the early

voting has been very busy, noting that the line has been down the hallway and out both

doors. He stated the Early Voting Location was at the Town Hall Lower Level and open from

10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with the exception of October 29 & 31 noting that the Early Voting

would be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on those two days; (2) School Roof Projects -

Mayor Allyn stated the Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC) asked him to

contact the Town Attorney because the roofs for the Board of Education Central Office,

Juliet W. Long School, and Gales Ferry School all had a completion date of September 12,

2024. However, he stated by September 12, 2024 there was almost no activity at the Gales

Ferry School. He stated only the sheathing was on the roof noting that he had concerns

because they have had 17 leaks in the school, noting as mentioned earlier this evening, they

have not had a lot of rain. He stated a letter was sent to the Roofing Contractor; and was

copied to their Bonding Company, which has elicited a meeting on-site at the Gales Ferry

School tomorrow (10/24/2024). He went on to note that incidentally the crews have now

been working at the Gales Ferry School almost every day and there was a lot of steel going

up on the school roof. He stated that he would provide an update to the Town Council after

tomorrow’s meeting; (3) Road Paving Work - Mayor Allyn stated Gonch Farm Road and

North Wind Circle off Fanning Road were the last two roads that were paved for this season.

He stated Ledyard’s Road Surface Rating (RSR) was 86.6 noting that this was the highest

road surface rating the town has had; (4) Multi-Use Pathway from the High School to

Ledyard Center - Mayor Allyn stated the portions of the Pathway from Ledyard Center to the

Board of Education Central Office was generally complete, noting that some concrete areas

there would be cross walks still needed to be completed. He stated that work has slowed

down because they were working on the realignment of Gallup Hill Road, explaining that the

“Y” Intersection was being changed to a “T” Intersection; and because they were working on

the retaining wall; (5) Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) Legislative

Committee Meeting - October 22, 2024 - Mayor Allyn stated the Committee has set the

following priorities for the upcoming 2025/2026 Legislative Session: (a) Increase Special

Education Funding; (b) Street Takeovers; (c) PILOT Payments to be made as Statutorily

Required; (d) Increase the Mashantucket - Mohegan Pequot Fund; (e) Allow Waste to

Energy Facilities to construct a second burner to increase tonnage. Mayor Allyn explained

that this was a Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) process and he

noted that DEEP was the slowest State Agency they have; (6) Southeastern Regional

Resource Recovery Authority (SCRRRA) Organic (Food) Waste Facility - Mayor Allyn

stated once SCRRRA received their Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

(DEEP) Permits which were expected in late Spring, 2025; they could start to build the

facility and collect food waste to process into compost; (7) Police Facility landscaping -

Mayor Allyn noted in 2016 when the Police Facility was constructed invasive species were

planted on the hillside between the Police Facility and Town Hall. He stated the Public

Works Crew has removed the invasive species and grass would be planted in that area; (8)

Navy Base Microgrid Ribbon Cutting - Mayor Allyn stated he attended the Ribbon Cutting

today, noting that Governor Lamont, Senator Blumenthal, and Congressman Courtney each

spoke at the event. He stated this was the first Microgrid for the Navy, explaining that the

Navy Base would be able to “Island Off” should there be a terrorist event, major hurricane,

or something that would cause substantial power outages that the Naval Base would be able

to continue operations 24/7 uninterrupted; (9) Deer Strikes - Mayor Allyn stated since

September 1, 2024 there have been 30 car versus deer strikes in Ledyard. He urged motorists

to drive with caution noting the “Rut” was coming up, which was when the males start to

chase the females explaining that during this time the deer do not stop for roads or cars; (10)

Nip Bottle Surcharge Revenues - Mayor Allyn stated Ledyard received $15,381.85 from the

Nip Bottle Surcharge for the past six months. He stated it was stunning to learn that 307,617

nip bottle were sold in Ledyard in six months; which equated to 1,709 per day or 20 nip

bottles per man, woman, and child in Ledyard. He noted that he would provide the Town

Council with a breakdown of the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Government

(SCRRRA) Member Towns Nip Bottle Surcharge Disbursements.

Questions to the Mayor

Councilor Brunelle stated that she wanted to review the following data regarding Mental

Health that she obtained from Compass Health Center:

· 50 % of all lifetime illnesses begin at the age of 14 (\National Alliance on Mental

Illness).

· 42% of teens experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness (Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention).

· 22% of teens have seriously considered attempting suicide (American Psychological

Association).

· Native American Teen Suicide rates are nearly 3.5 times higher than the national average

(Center for Native American Youth).

· 14% of LGBTQ teenagers attempted suicide in 2022, including 1 in 5 transgender and

nonbinary youth (The Trevor Project).

· 1 in 7 teenagers will experience a mental disorder (World Health Organization).

· 3 in 5 teen girls reported feeling sadness every day for at least two weeks (New York

Times).

· 31.9% of teens are estimated to have an anxiety disorder.

· 20% of teens will experience depression by the age of 17.

· In 25% of cases, the onset of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) occurs by age 14.

· 1 in 4 teenagers will have experienced a traumatic event by the age of 16.

· 83% of teens will experience at least one traumatic event in adolescence.

· Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in teenagers ages 15-19.

Councilor Brunelle questioned based on these statistics, how the Ledyard School System

could have Zero Students using the Mental Health Services that were available. She stated

that it seemed as though Ledyard’s Mental Health Program was set up to fail, noting that the

Town has not given this resource an office in the schools. She went on to question how

students were supposed to see the Mental Health Clinician when she was not at the schools;

and why there were no referrals to the Clinician. She also questioned whether the students

knew that the Mental Health Clinician was available. She stated based on these statistics that

it seemed like someone dropped the ball, and that she was worried about their kids. She

questioned who they could direct these concerns to.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated after the Town Council’s September 25, 2024 discussion regarding

Mental Health Services he spoke with School Superintendent Jason Hartling about

communicating with the School Principals. Mayor Allyn stated that Superintendent Hartling

has communicated with the School Principals; and he noted that Town Councilors could talk

with Superintendent Hartling to see how that was being received. He stated the Clinician was

assigned a space in the Media Center at the Middle School to meet with students, noting that

she was also available to go to the schools on a needs basis. He went on to explain that it was

his understanding that there needed to be clearance with parents before the Clinician could

meet with a student; however, he suggested the Town Council follow up with the Board of

Education, noting that this was not within his purview. He stated the Town was providing

funding for the Clinician to provide Mental Health Services; and that it was up to the Board

of Education to use the Clinician.

Chairman Rodriguez stated when she and Mayor Allyn met with Superintendent Hartling on

September 23, 2024 that she asked about the use of the Clinician that the Town was funding

through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding; and whether he could ask the

School Principals whether there were any students that needed to be referred or seen. She

noted that Superintendent Hartling said because the Town was paying for the Clinician that

the person was a Town Employee; and that it was up to the Town to find the students that

needed the help. Mayor Allyn stated based on what Chairman Rodriguez conveyed that the

same would then be true for the Child and Family Agency Clinicians that the Town provided

ARPA Funding for. He stated that the Child and Family Agency was in the schools, they

were doing their job, and that the Child and Family Agency was being directed by the

schools. Therefore, he stated he did not know why the Clinician would be any different.

Councilor Buhle stated the Child and Family Agency maintains a separate boundary noting

that they were not school employees, they do not work with the school, etc. She also noted

that the Child and Family Agency and the School Mental Health Coordinator provided at the

Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School do not interface with each other, noting that it

would be helpful if they would talk to each other. However, she stated that the School

Mental Health Coordinator does refer students to the Child and Family Agency. She

suggested they look at how students were referred to the Child and Family Agency and

whether the same process could be used for the Mental Health Clinician.

Chairman Rodriguez noted in response to comments that were made several times that there

were no students for the Mental Health Clinician that was being paid through the American

Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding; that Town Councilors have commented that it was hard

to believe, because they knew that students have mental health crisis, and they need help.

Therefore, she stated further discussions were needed.

Chairman Rodriguez stated that she was pleased Ledyard’s Road Surface Rating (RSR) was

86.6 noting that it was very high and very good. She noted her husband always comments on

the roads stating that he always knows when they were in Ledyard and when they were in

Preston. She thanked Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin and the Public

Works Department, noting that they were proud of Ledyard’s roads.

Chairman Rodriguez stated that she has been seeing people use the new Multi-Use Pathway

from the High School to Ledyard Center. However, she has heard the following comments:

· Residents thought the Multi-Use Pathway was going to be cement sidewalks and not

black asphalt.

· Residents have commented when driving at night the pathway was the same color as the

road, and they questioned whether there was going to be a fence or curbing. Mayor Allyn,

III, stated that most of curbing has now been installed along the Multi- Use Pathway. He

stated they were still working on the area going toward the Bill Library, Linda C. Davis

Food Pantry, and the back side of the Town Green.

Councilor St. Vil noted Councilor Garcia-Irizarry comments regarding the hours of the Transfer

Station for residents to drop off their Food Waste for Composting. He questioned whether the

Mayor and Public Works Director have considered ways to broaden access to composting in

town. Mayor Allyn stated based on Councilor Garcia-Irizarry’s comments he would look at

where the town could locate the Composting Bins so that they would be accessible without

having to go through the Transfer Station gate, which would allow residents to drop off their

organic food waste on the days the Transfer Station was not open. He stated that there were

cameras on the outside of the Public Works Building.

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

CONSENT CALENDAR

Chairman Rodriguez presented the Consent Calendar, and she noted in light of a letter she

received this afternoon from Planning & Zoning Commission Chairman J.A. (Tony) Capon that

she would like to remove Item #*6 from the Consent Calendar, and move it to the first item

under the Administration Committee.

MOTION to reappoint Mr. Michael Marelli (D) 4 Lee Brook Drive, Ledyard, to the Agricultural

Commission, for a three (3) year term ending September 21, 2027.

*1.

*2.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Historic District Commission, for a five (5)

year term ending December 3, 2029:

Ms. Kelly Lamb (U) 93 R Lambtown Road, Ledyard - Regular Member

Mr. Vincent Godino (D) 1906 Center Groton Road, Ledyard - Alternate Member.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Library Commission, for a two (2) year

term ending November 7, 2026:

*3.

Mr. Ralph Hightower (D) 1-O Lakeside Drive, Ledyard

Mr. Rolf Racich (U) 18 Brewster Drive, Gales Ferry

Mr. Peter Diette (U) 14 Hyde Park Drive, Gales Ferry.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Ledyard Beautification Committee, for a

three (3) year term ending October 26, 2027:

*4.

*5.

Ms. Jennifer Eastbourne (U) 4 Glenwoods Court, Gales Ferry

Ms. Kathrine Kohrs (D) 19 Winthrop Road, Gales Ferry.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Inland Wetland and Watercourses

Commission, for a two (2) year term ending October 31, 2026:

Ms. Lynmarie R. Thompson (D) 2 Blackwell Drive, Gales Ferry

Ms. Beth E. Ribe (U) 129 Rose Hill Road, Ledyard

Mr. Daniel Pealer ( R) 48 Highland Drive, Ledyard.

Moved by Councilor St. Vil, seconded by Councilor Buhle

VOTE:

7- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Gary St. Vil

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

AYE:

St. Vil

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

**Remove Item #**6 from Consent Calendar:** and move it to the first item under

"Administration Committee"

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Planning & Zoning Commission, for a

three (3) year term ending October 31, 2027:

*6.

Mr. Marcelle Wood (D) 11 South Glenwoods Road, Gales Ferry

Mr. J.A. (Tony) Capon (D) 37 Silas Deane Road, Ledyard.

Administration Committee

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Planning & Zoning Commission, for a

three (3) year term ending October 31, 2027:

Mr. Marcelle Wood (D) 11 South Glenwoods Road, Gales Ferry

Mr. J.A. (Tony) Capon (D) 37 Silas Deane Road, Ledyard.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Chairman Rodriguez stated Mr. Capon has declined reappointment, and therefore,

his name would be removed from the Motion as a “Friendly Amendment” this evening.

At the request of Mr. Capon, Chairman Rodriguez read the following letter:

“October 23, 2024

Ms. Naomi Rodriguez

Chairman

Ledyard Town Council

Dear Ms. Rodriguez,

My current three-year term on the Planning and Zoning Commission ends

October 31, 2024. After some reflection I have decided to step down at the

end of my term and not seek reappointment. When the stress of serving in a

volunteer position in the town exceeds the satisfaction derived from

contributing to the town, one needs to decide whether that is the best use of

time. I have appreciated the opportunity to serve on PZC, the last three

years as chairman. But it is time to walk away.

Sincerely,

Tony Capon

Chairman, PZC”

VOTE: 7- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Mr. Michael Marelli (D) 4 Lee Brook Drive, Ledyard, to the Inland

Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, as an Alternate Member, to complete a two (2) year

term ending October 31, 2026 to fill a vacancy left by Mr. Graebner.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Brunelle

Discussion: Chairman Rodriguez stated that Mr. Marelli has been serving on the Agricultural

Commission since it was established in 2017; and he has also served on the Conservation

Commission and as its Chairman for many years. She stated that Mr. Marelli brings a lot to the

table with his background as a Certified Horticulturalist, Supervisory Pesticide Applicator;

Licensed Arborist, and Maritime Academy Tree Steward.

Councilor Buhle stated that she served on the Conservation Commission with Mr. Marelli, and

she stated he was a great fit for the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, noting that

he was passionate about their town.

Councilor Dombrowski stated although he has not served on a Committee with Mr. Marelli that

he has worked with him for a number of years in his capacity on the Town Council, noting that

Mr. Marelli was an asset to the town.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted that she also worked with Mr. Marelli when she served on the

Conservation Commission. She stated under Mr. Marelli’s Chairmanship that the Conservation

Commission worked well together; and that he has done a great job for the town.

VOTE:

7- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

April Brunelle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

AYE:

St. Vil

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Mr. James Thompson (D) 6 Pennywise Lane, Ledyard, to the Inland

Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, as an Alternate Member, to complete a two (2) year

term ending October 31, 2026 to fill a vacancy left by Mr. Watford.

Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry

Discussion: Councilor Dombrowski stated that he knew Mr. Thompson and that he was a good

choice to serve on the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission.

Chairman Rodriguez noted Mr. Thompson’s resume’ stating he has a background in

environmental policy and that he was interested in serving the town on the Inland Wetlands and

Watercourses Commission.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Kevin Dombrowski

RESULT:

MOVER:

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Mr. James Harwood (D) 10 Eska Drive, Ledyard, to Planning & Zoning

Commission as an Alternate Member, to complete a three (3) year term ending December 31,

2025 filling a vacancy left by Ms. Baudro.

Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry

Discussion: Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that Mr. Harwood was currently serving on the

Conservation Commission. She noted during her time on the Conservation Commission that Mr.

Harwood was a good contributor to the Commission.

V7O- 0TAEp: proved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Kevin Dombrowski

RESULT:

MOVER:

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

Finance Committee

MOTION to grant a bid waiver to Goman & York Property Advisors, LLC in the amount of

$72,500 to conduct the Route 12 Corridor Study, due to receiving fewer than the required three

bids in response to RFQ/RFP #2025-01 ( Corridor Study along Route 12) in accordance with

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

10.

In addition, transfer and appropriate $22,500 to the Route 12 Corridor Study for a total amount

of $72,500. Source of funding transfer to be determined.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Chairman Rodriguez noted that currently the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)

Projects spreadsheet was showing a deficit of $66,000 and with the requested $22,000 they

would have an ARPA deficit of $88,000. Therefore, she questioned where the additional

$22,500 of ARPA Funding would come from.

Mayor Allyn, III, noted the “Source of ARPA funding transfer to be determined” was worded

the same as Item #11 (Phase III Sewer Line Extension Project) on tonight’s Agenda. He noted

for Item #11 that the bids came in at $750,000; however, $950,000 of ARPA Funding was

budgeted for Phase III of the Sewer Line Extension Project, therefore, he stated that there would

be $200,000 of ARPA Funding that could be redirected to other projects such as the Route 12

Corridor Study. Chairman Rodriguez expressed concern that should they have some expected

expenses such as ledge with the Sewer Line Extension Project that the projected $200,000

surplus may be used up. Mayor Allyn stated that unanticipated costs were considered, and he

noted at the October 16, 2024 Finance Committee Meeting that Public Works Director/Town

Engineer Steve Masalin provided a spreadsheet which showed zeroing out the $66,000 deficit

and still having enough ARPA Funding remaining.

Mayor Allyn went on to explain on July 8, 2024 the Economic Development Commission

solicited a Request for Qualifications/Request for Proposals (RFQ/RFP #2025-01) to seek

qualified consulting firms to conduct a comprehensive Corridor Study along Route 12 in Gales

Ferry. However, he stated the Town only received the following two bids: (1) Goman & York

Property Advisors, LLC $ 76,150; and (2) Colliers Engineering & Design $119,940; noting that

the low bid came in higher than the $50,000 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding that

was allocated for the project. He addressed the importance of proceeding with the Route 12

Corridor Study, explaining that it would allow the town to prepare shovel ready projects putting

the town in a better position for when Small Town Economic Assistance Grant (STEAP)

Funding or other Funding opportunities becomes available.

Councilor Saccone noted the number of car accidents on Route 12, and he explained that the

Corridor Study may propose things such as a center turning lane to help prevent cars from being

hit from behind when trying to turn off of Route 12. He stated although Route 12 was a State

Road, that the Town could provide the Engineering work from the Study to the State to support

some important improvements. He also noted the Route 12 Corridor Study would provide:

Traffic Studies including Pedestrian Flow; Traffic Management, Economic and Employment

Impact, Engage the Stakeholders (businesses on Route 12), Engineering Work, and Analysis of

Route 12. He stated by having this Study completed that perhaps the town could afford to fund

some projects or apply for grant funding to implement some needed improvements. He

concluded by noting the Town would be required to obtain the State Department of

Transportation (DOT) permission to make any changes to Route 12.

Councilor Buhle stated the Town previously received Small Town Economic Assistance

Program (STEAP) Grant Funding that paid for the improvements in Ledyard Center, which

included the decorative streetlights, stonewalls, sidewalks, etc. She stated in looking at

neighboring towns such as East Lyme/Niantic they received upwards of $1.5 million in STEAP

Grant Funding for their Main Street Redevelopment to make the town more welcoming, etc. She

stated that STEAP Grants now have a maximum ceiling of $1 million; and she stated by having

the Route 12 Corridor Study completed that the Town would be in a better position to apply for

and receive grants funding through opportunities such as the STEAP Program and the LOTCIP

Program. She stated although STEAP Grant Funding could be used for shovel ready projects

that they could not be used for studies, which was the reason it was important for the town to

have the Route 12 Corridor Study done.

Councilor Dombrowski noted when Ledyard was receiving the grant funding for the

improvements to Ledyard Center that the Gales Ferry residents questioned why similar

improvements were not being done in Gales Ferry. He went on to explain the reason the town

was not able to receive grant funding for Gales Ferry was because they did not have an

up-to-date Route 12 Corridor Study. He stated by having a new Route 12 Corridor Study it

would allow them to apply for STEAP Grants to do the things they would like to do in Gales

Ferry.

VO7-T0EA:pproved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to authorize Construction Services and Bid Waiver for Phase III Sewer Line

Installation per Gerber Construction, Inc. proposal in the amount of $750,000; and authorize

associated Resident inspection and Construction Engineering Services per Weston & Sampson

11.

Engineers, Inc. Bid No. 2021-03 amendment proposal in the amount of $71,000.

Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Councilor Saccone explained that Phase III of the Sewer Line Extension Project

would install a new larger sewer line from the High School to Pennywise Lane.

Mayor Allyn, III, reviewed the path of the Phase III Sewer Line, explaining the existing sewer

line terminates to the side of High School by the Music Facility. He noted the sewer line that

goes behind the High School cuts diagonally across the lower practice field through the inside

edge of the outfield fence of the baseball field, across the parking lot at the back of the High

School before it ultimately entered into Gallup Hill Road past Greystone Court. He stated the

installation of the larger sewer line would follow the same path of the exiting sewer line and that

the construction work would impact the school property. He stated because the new sewer line

was following the existing undersize sewer line that they do not anticipate running into ledge

and that other unknowns were less likely. He stated this work would take place during the winter

months; and therefore, should not impact the High School sports programs.

Councilor Saccone stated this work was being done using the American Rescue Plan Act

(ARPA) Funding not town taxpayer funding.

V7-O0TAEp:proved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to authorize overspending account 10110205-53615 Town Attorney through June 30,

2025.

12.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, explained between the expended and encumbered amounts that

the Legal Fees Account had a current balance of about $5.00. He stated this was primarily due to

the lead hazard issue at the Historic Nathan Lester House, explaining that there was a lot of legal

work involved in this matter. He stated that they were working with the Department of Public

Health noting that a conference was scheduled for tomorrow (10/24/2024) to come to a

resolution. He stated the Caretakers were not occupying the space.

VOTE:7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to accept the Community Speaks Out proposal dated October 16, 2024 in the amount

of $10,000 for the use of the National Opioid Settlement Funding received by the Town of

Ledyard with the following changes:

13.

Remove $1,000 for the School Presentations - Fee for Guest Speakers.

Remove $1,000 for the Awareness Events in Community for community education and

resources including Naloxone and drug test distribution.

Add $2,000 to the $8,000 for Financial Recovery Assistance to include Sober Living, Basic

Needs, Recovery Activities and Recovery Coach Services (Total: $10,000).

Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Chairman Rodriguez stated at the Finance Committee’s October 16, 2024 meeting

that Community Speaks Out stated although the funding for the School Presentations was

removed from the Proposal that they would still try to get into the schools to give presentations.

She stated when she and Mayor Allyn, III, met with School Superintendent Jason Hartling on

September 23, 2024 that Mr. Hartling told them that any presentations at the schools had to go

through him. Therefore, she stated that Community Speaks Out would need to email

Superintendent Hartling and not email the School Principals to schedule presentations at the

schools.

Mayor Allyn stated after the October 16, 2024 Finance Committee he spoke with School

Superintendent Jason Hartling about the Community Speaks Out Proposal. He noted that he

hoped Mr. and Mrs. de la Cruz could get some time with Superintendent Hartling and get into

the schools.

Councilor Saccone stated that Community Speaks Out was a Non-Profit Organization that was

based in Groton, Connecticut. He stated the Town of Groton allocated all of their Opioid

Settlement Funding to Community Speaks Out to provide services within the Town of Groton.

He stated he thought this was a great opportunity for Community Speaks Out to work in Ledyard

as well.

Councilor Buhle stated Community Speaks Out was already providing services to people within

the Ledyard community, even without the town providing funding to their Organization. She

stated that Community Speaks Out was working to better track who they were helping, so that

they could provide better data to the Municipalities. However, she stated that doing so was

challenging because many with an addiction disease were guarded. She stated that she was

grateful that Community Speaks Out was already providing services in their community.

VOTE: 7- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to approve a Budget Letter of Directive to the Mayor and Board of Education for the

preparation of the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget, as presented in the draft dated October 16,

14.

2024.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Chairman Rodriguez stated to begin the Annual Budget Process the Town Council

issues a “Budget Letter of Directive” to the Mayor and Board of Education, which outlines the

budget preparation process provided in the Town Charter; and also provides some direction

relative to budget increases for the coming year, noting that it was a standard letter.

VO7-T0EA: pproved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

MOTION to extend Archery Hunting on Certain Town Owned Lands and Certain Open Space

Properties for one-year in accordance with provisions in Ordinance#100-018 (rev. 1) "An

Ordinance Providing Archery Hunting on Certain Town Owned Lands and Certain Open Space

Properties".

15.

Moved by Councilor Brunelle, seconded by Councilor St. Vil

Discussion: Councilor Dombrowski provided some background explaining in 2018 the Town

Council adopted Ordinance #100-018 “An Ordinance Providing for Archery Hunting on Certain

Town Owned Lands”. He stated the two properties that would be used for archery hunting were: (1)

Clark Farm located on Route 117 on the north end of town; and (2) Founders Preserve (Paint Mill)

Property located between Colonel Ledyard Highway and Pumpkin Hill Road on the south end of

town (both properties were about 100 acres).

Councilor Dombrowski went on to explain at a Special Town Meeting held on October 28, 2020 the

townspeople approved to transfer the Founders Preserve (also formerly known as: Quakertown

Preserve/Paint Mill) to Avalonia Land Conservancy. He noted one of the terms for the land transfer

was that Avalonia Land Conservancy would continue to allow archery hunting on the Founders

Preserve property. He stated because the Founders Preserve would no longer be town-owned

property that on April 25, 2021 Ordinance #100-108 (rev. 1) and its accompanying Appendix was

amended to include provisions for “non-town owned properties/certain open space properties”.

Councilor Dombrowski continued to explain that the archery hunting program was a Lottery System

in which six people would win a lottery for each property to bow hunt, for a total of twelve people.

He stated that tonight’s action to extend the Program for one year was an Administrative Action,

noting in accordance with Section 4. “Annual Expiration” the Ordinance would sunset annually at

the end of the calendar year, unless a vote of the Town Council was taken to approve to extend it for

one year.

Councilor St. Vil stated anyone who entered the Lottery was required to take a Safety Course and

prove their archery skills.

VOTE:

7- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

April Brunelle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Gary St. Vil

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez, Saccone, and

St. Vil

AYE:

Paul, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Buhle moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor St. Vil

V7 O- 0TAEp: proved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 8:04 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 October 23, 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.