741 Colonel Ledyard Highway

Ledyard, Connecticut 06339-1551

(860) 464-3203

TOWN OF LEDYARD

Town Council

council@ledyardct.org

Meeting Minutes

Chairman Gary St. Vil

Regular Meeting

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

7:00 PM

Town Hall Council Chambers

In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex

Remote: Information noted below:

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CALL TO ORDER

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

Annex Building.

Chairman St. Vil welcomed all to the Hybrid Meeting. He stated for the members of the

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

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

Website - Granicus-Legistar Meeting Portal.

II.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

III.

Councilor William Barnes

Councilor April Brunelle

Councilor Jessica Buhle

Councilor Kevin Dombrowski

Councilor Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

Councilor Tim Ryan

Present:

Councilor Tony Saccone

Councilor Gary St. Vil

Councilor Adrienne Parad

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

This was ..to the Town Council due back on 11/12/2025

RESULT:

Students Celebrate 250 “I Voted” Sticker Contest

· Students Celebrate 250 “I Voted” Sticker Contest

Chairman St. Vil stated that they had some very special Guests this evening and he invited

Mayor Allyn, III and the Celebrate America 250 Planning Committee Members Executive

Assistant Kristen Chapman and Town Clerk Patrica Riley to join him in front of the Dias.

He deferred to Mayor Allyn to provide some background regarding the work of the Celebrate

America 250 Planning Committee and the young adults they were going to recognize this

evening.

Mayor Allyn stated in preparation for the Semiquincentennial Anniversary commemorating the

signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Town’s America 250 Planning Committee has

begun planning for this historic celebration. He stated to kick off the effort, the Committee

invited Ledyard’s elementary school students to design the “I Voted” stickers for this year’s

November 4, 2025 General Election. He stated they were flooded with entrees noting that they

received about 75 “I Voted” Designs. He stated the Committee narrowed the field to twelve

finalist, and at their September 10, 2025 meeting the Town Council cast ballots for their

favorites. He stated tonight they were proud to Announce the Top Three Selections. He stated

the “I Voted” Designs were printed on the Stickers and were being handed out to residents at the

polls for this year’s General Election. He stated that residents who have cast their ballot during

the Early Voting have already received the specially designed stickers.

Charman St. Vil invited Audrye Perfect from Miss. Bridger - Third Grade Class; Mr. James

Haggan from Mrs. Mason’s Second Grade Class; and Miss. Ameila Krodel from Ms. Bridger

- Third Grade Class to come to come up. The Students were presented with Certificates of

Congratulations, which included their “I Voted” Designs and a Goody Bag. The Designs

were also displayed on the Monitor for those attending the meeting to see.

America 250 Planning Committee Member Kristen Chapman noted that the top twelve designs

would be available on the Town’s Website.

Proclamation

· Town of Ledyard Proclamation - Councilor Tony Saccone

Chairman St. Vil stated this evening they would like to celebrate Councilor Tony Saccone. He

stated for all the discussions and debate that that takes place at their Town Council meetings as

part of governing; that being able to take some time to acknowledge and celebrate members of

their community was a fun thing to do. He invited Mayor Allyn, and Councilor Saccone to join

him infront of the dais. He stated because Councilor Saccone has chosen not to seek elected

office this year that they would like to take a few minutes to express their appreciation for the

time Councilor Saccone has volunteered to help and support his community and to wish him the

all the best in his future endeavors. He invited Mayor Allyn to say a few words about Councilor

Saccone before he presented the Town of Ledyard Proclamation.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated Gales Ferry former Fire Chief Saccone also known as Councilor

Saccone has been a rock in their community. He stated that Councilor Saccone has done so

much for his town, noting that he raised his family here in Gales Ferry, and his wife was a nurse.

He stated when elected to the Town Council Mr. Saccone took on one of the biggest

responsibilities which was to serve as the Finance Committee’s Chairman, noting that it required

a lot of reading and number crunching. He stated Councilor Saccone did the work and always

reached out to the Finance Director and to him to make sure he had all the information and was

ready for the Finance Committee meetings. Mayor Allyn went on to state, most importantly was

the number of years Mr. Saccone dedicated to the Gales Ferry Fire Company; and continued to

do so today. He stated for those who does not know, Mr. Saccone was the Fire Chief for the

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. He stated that Mr. Saccone has taken his many decades of

Fire Service to the Mashantucket and was providing an amazing service for them as well. He

thanked Mr. Saccone for all that he has done for Ledyard and for his time.

Chairman St. Vil proceeded by presenting Councilor Saccone with the following Town of

Ledyard Proclamation:

BE IT KNOWN THAT THE LEDYARD TOWN COUNICL RECOGNIZES

anthony saccone, sr.

For His Twenty-four years of service and dedication to the Town of Ledyard

2001 to 2025

As a Volunteer and Elected Official

Mr. Saccone. began serving his community in 2001 volunteering as a

Firefighter for the Gales Ferry Fire Company; and later serving as its Fire

Chief for fifteen years, being elected by his peers as the longest tenured Fire

Chief in the history of the Gales Ferry Fire Company.

During his Time as Fire Chief Mr. Saccone initiated a Dual Response

Program in which the Ledyard Center Fire Company - District #1 and the

Gales Ferry Fire Company - District #2 began to work closely together to

jointly respond to emergency calls in their respective Districts to mitigate the

trend in the decline of volunteers; ensuring the Volunteer Fire Companies had

ample responders to protect the residents in their community.

In Being Mindful of the Replacement Costs of lifesaving apparatus and the

necessary equipment to protect Ledyard’s residents, and it’s Firefighters, both

Paid Staff and Volunteers, Chief Saccone was instrumental in the

development of the Long-Term Apparatus Replacement Schedule working

with the Administrator of Emergency Services, multiple Mayors, and Town

Councils to minimize the duplication of equipment and ensure that funding

was set aside on an annual basis allowing the town to retire and replace

aging equipment without burdening residents with the high cost of long-term

borrowing.

Chief Saccone Recognized the Importance of Safety working to ensure all

their Volunteer Firefighters regularly attended training programs to better

serve those in need of assistance when responding to emergency calls; and

minimize injuries to their volunteers; and prevent claims and the losses

associated.

In addition, Chief Saccone tirelessly worked with Congressman Joe Courtney

to strengthen protections under the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program.

After ten-years of advocating for these protections Chief Saccone proudly

stood beside President Joe Biden at the 2021 signing of the Protecting

America’s First Responders Act which expanded protections for first

responders and now included fire police in the program.

In 2023 Mr. Saccone was elected to the Town Council - During his term

he served as the Finance Committee Chairman, where he provided careful

oversight of taxpayer dollars and championed investments that kept municipal

and school facilities strong; advocating for a long term Facilities Improvement

Plan.

Those of Us Who Witnessed these actions will attest that Anthoney

Saccone, Sr. was motivated by the highest ideals of public service and

exemplified integrity, dedication, and leadership during a time of growth and

change. Our community will remain grateful for his many years of service and

steadfast commitment to Ledyard’s well-being.

Given by the Twenty-seventh Town Council on this Twenty-second day of

October, 2025 at Ledyard, Connecticut.

_________________________

Gary St. Vi, Chairman

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

MINUTES

Chairman St. Vil stated he would begin with the residents in the room and then move to

those attending remotely via Zoom. He asked those who were attending remotely to please

put their names and address in the “Chat” and that they would be called on.

Mr. Jeff Eilenburger, 2 Village Drive, Ledyard, stated one of his friends Stan Juber, who

has been around for a long time, spoke at the Town Council’s June 12, 2024 meeting; and he

stated that until about six- months ago, it was difficult to tell who was a Republican and

who was a Democrat, because everyone on the Town Council tried to work together for the

good of the town. He noted that Mr. Juber went on to state that the members of the Town

Council did not intentionally engage in controversial issues, noting they did things to unite

people, not to divide them.

Mr. Eilenberger continued by stating that he took it upon himself talk with Ledyard’s

Department Heads about how the proposed Ethics Commission would affect their jobs and

Departments. However, he stated before he gets into Ledyard’s Department Heads comments

that he wanted to note that he also checked with the Town Clerk in a small town that already

had an Ethics Committee. He stated that he asked their Town Clerk the same questions that

he asked all of Ledyard’s Department Heads, which was: “How has the Ethics Commission

affected your job and your department? He stated their Town Clerk stated that they do not

know because their small town was still in the testing position; but that to date it had not

changed their work, other than to administer the oath to the commission members.

Mr. Eilenberger went on to note in speaking with eight of Ledyard’s Department Heads

about how the proposed Ethics Commission would affect their job and departments, that he

now knows the Department Heads names by sight, and he questioned how many members

of the Town Council could do that. He proceeded by noting a few of the comments he

received as follows:

· Increase to Liability Risk Management Premiums and Deductibles for the town's

insurance.

· Fear of weaponization.

· Increase in Attorney Fees.

· Loss of a small-town-friendly place to work.

· Contractors must sign on to the Ethics Code and Commission and be held to the

provisions. Mr. Eilenberger commented that it was going to be tough to get

subcontractors to work for the Town of Ledyard now.

· Errors in the processes by those who drafted the proposes Ordinance.

· Not making a Code of Ethics first.

Mr. Eilenberger concluded his comments by noting the way the Mayor was spoken to at the

October 8, 2025 meeting. He stated those individuals owed the Mayor a public apology for

their behavior and the way they spoke to the Mayor. He stated that he would not have spoken

to his an enemy like that. Thank you,

Mr. Whit Irwin, 2 Winfield Way, Ledyard, stated that five members of the Town Council

were unhappy to see him here again; and that was fine because he was unhappy to be here as

well; because it meant that once again he had to speak out again about how actions they have

taken; and action they were about to take would hurt their town.

Mr. Irwin went on to note that he saw the proceedings from October 8, 2025 Town Council

Meeting and he noted that he was appalled that the Chairman permitted and pushed for a

vote on the proposed “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and

Ethics Commission” which was not ready for the floor. He stated in fact, none of the Town

Councilor could view the final version because it had not been written yet. He stated that the

Ordinance was still being drafted at noon the day after the Town Council passed it. He stated

that this was worse than Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi saying, “We have to pass the bill

before we can know what’s in it.” He noted the Town Council’s action was quite literally,

“We have to pass the Ordinance before we write it.” He sated darts to all of you who voted

AYE for the Ethics Ordinance when they had not seen it; those were Councilors Brunelle,

Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Saccone, and St. Vil; and laurels for those who voted NAY:

Councilors Barnes, Dombrowski, and Ryan; and laurels to the Mayor for vetoing this

ill-considered, rushed Ordinance. He noted that Chairman St. Vil asked him online to file a

grievance if he thought that he had broken Connecticut Law. Mr. Irwin stated that he had

already helped draft and file an FOIA Complaint. He stated that he could not help but note

the rich irony of the Town Council breaking or appearing to have broken Connecticut State

law in the act of passing an Ethics Ordinance. He stated that he would think that they would

want that action to be beyond reproach. He stated that the State would now be required to

spend money investigating the Town Council’s actions and deciding any outcomes from

them.

Mr. Irwin continued by noting that this Town Council was fond of saying “Leadership is

hard.” Mr. Irwin stated that Leadership can be challenging, but that it was only hard when

you do not listen to your team. He stated the Town Council had Councilor Barnes with

nearly, if not a full 30-years of governmental service, who has drafted rules and regulations

in the Marine Corp, who knows what good staff work is. He stated the Town Council had

Councilor Ryan who was on his third term as a Councilor in Ledyard, plus his terms on the

New London City Council prior to moving here. He stated the Town Council had Councilor

Dombrowski who has not only served this town in various positions for decades, but has also

previously served quite capably as the Town Council Chairman. He stated all three of these

members of the Town Council delivered compelling reasons to wait to adopt the proposed

“An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission” but

that Chairman St. Vil and his fellow “AYES” would not listen. He stated that it appeared to

be characteristic of this group of Democratic first-term Council members, which was why

the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget was returned to the Council twice by public referendum,

and why this Ordinance was being returned to the Council now.

Mr. Irwin concluded his comments by stating that he was here this evening to implore that

the Town Council to stop hurting Ledyard. He asked that they do not Override the Mayor’s

well considered Veto on the Ethics Ordinance. He stated the Town Council previously

ignored the Town Attorney, and the resultant product prompted pages, plural, of legal

issues, including unbridled administrative overreach, lack of enforceability, and a general

indefensibility of the Ordinance. He stated that the Ordinance immediately removed program

offerings from Parks and Recreation resulting in loses in town revenue because they never

included the Town Department Heads during the development of Ordinance, in any

meaningful way. He stated the Ordinance does not contain a Code of Ethics for the Town,

which was supposed to be a central tenant to the Ordinance, and would only throw our taxes

down the drain when attempting to use it. He stated in its current form, it was a terrible

Ordinance. He stated for all of you who voted AYE, please reconsider your support and turn

this Ordinance down.

Mrs. Sharon Pealer, 48 Highland Drive, Ledyard, stated she was present this evening to

address a few issues in the “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics

and Ethics Commission” that was adopted by this Town Council at their October 8, 2025

meeting. She noted as written in the letter from Parks and Recreation: “Where is the Code in

this Code of Ethics? She stated that the document spelled out what financial interests town

officials and employees may not have; and what they must disclose. That was the entirety of'

the multiple listings in the Ordinance. She stated that it might form a good addendum to

what already exists in the Town Charter under Fraud.

Mrs. Pealer went on to note that she attended public meetings about this Ordinance, both in

person and on-line. She stated one of the major concerns for residents has been the idea of

neighbors judging neighbors. She noted that the Town Charter clearly charges the Elected

Officials of this Town Council with the responsibility for investigation, hiring an attorney if

needed (including for the accused), and determining a course of action to resolve the

problem. She stated that this Ordinance fully passes that responsibility off to a Commission

formed to investigate only one type of violation, financial. She noted that the Ordinance

never establishes who determines the punishment for a finding of unethical financial

behavior.

Mrs. Pealer stated the last thing she had to say, and she stated that she was not ever

ready to have to do this; was that she stands amazed that in the rush to pass this so

called Ethics Ordinance, the Town Council majority neglected to follow State Statute.

She noted the Agenda of 10/8/2025 clearly stated:

General Items

Item #6:

Discussion and possible action to review and consider text amendments to the proposed "An

Ordinance Establishing a "Town Of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission" in

Preparation to present at a public hearing.

Mrs. Pealer stated that the Town Council majority appeared to have violated Connecticut

General Statutes, 1-225(c), “An action violating open meeting laws as affirmed in Court

Case: ZONING BOARD OFAPPEALS OF THE TOWN OF PLAINFIELD AL v. FREEDOM

OF INFORMATION COMMISSION ET AL. Which holds that agencies cannot act on items

not properly noticed. Mrs. Pealer stated this Law requires twenty four hour’s notice to the

public of such change, or a 2/3rds affirmative vote by the Committee, noting that neither of

these were done.

Mrs. Pealer stated that she has in the best interest of the law filed a formal Freedom of

Information Act (FOIA) Complaint because of this action. The Complaint was received on

October 14, 2025 , and she was so noticed. She stated that a finding that this Statute was

violated could bring the Ordinance being voided by the Freedom of Information Commission

(FOIC), as well as a fine not to exceed more than $5,000.00 dollars for those found guilty of

violating the Statute by voting in-favor of the Ordinance. She stated that she was providing

Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher with a copy of the Complaint to Freedom of

Information Act (FOIA), and she has copied the pertinent section of the State Statute at the

end of this address.

“Chapter 14, y-225(c) The agenda of the regular meetings of every public agency,

except for the General Assembly, shall be available to the public and shall be filed,

'not less than twenty-four hours before the meetings to which they refer, (1) in such

agency's regular office or place of business, and (2) in the office of the Secretary of

the State for any such public agency of the state, in the office of the clerk of such

subdivision for any public agency of a political subdivision of the state or in the office

of the clerk of each municipal member of any multitown district or agency. For any

such public agency of the state, such agenda shall be posted on the public agency's

and the Secretary of the State's Internet web sites. Upon the affirmative vote of

two-thirds of the members of a public agency present and voting, any subsequent

business not included in such filed agendas may be considered and acted upon at

such meetings.”

Mr. Steve Munger, 12 Nutmeg Drive, Ledyard, stated as he does each time he appears

before the Town Council to speak, that he would like to thank everyone serving on the Town

Council. He stated as they know that he has disagreed with most of what they do, but that he

appreciated their service to the town by serving on the Town Council.

Mr. Munger continued by stating that he was against the “An Ordinance Establishing a Town

of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission” for the same basic reasons he has

expressed in the past about other issues noting: “If it's not broke, don't fix it”. He questioned

why should the town spend thousands of dollars, like two other towns were doing to fight

cases, that were going back to the Town Council once the case was done.

Mr. Munger stated although he could not prove it, that he believed that there was an

alternative motive behind the Ethics Ordinance. He that he did not physically attend the last

meeting but he heard a gentleman say that they needed an Ethics Commission because of the

Mayor they currently have in town, noting that the gentleman was outright saying that was

the reason they supported the Ethics Ordinance. Mr. Munger stated that he had a problem

with that. He stated that he would say the same thing if someone said that they were going to

go after Chairman St. Vil. He stated these were the types of things that divide the town.

Thank you.

Mr. Daniel Pealer, 48 Highland Drive Ledyard, stated Good evening, Council members,

fellow residents, and all who believe in the rule of law and power of public trust. He stated

tonight he wanted to speak not only as a concerned citizen, but as a guardian of the process.

He stated the Ledyard Town Council was preparing to vote on whether to override the

Mayor's Veto of the ethics, a vote that would carry significant weight for the future of their

town's government. However, he stated before that vote proceeds, they must confront a

troubling truth. He stated the Town Council's original adoption of the “An Ordinance

Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission” on ordinance at

their October 8, 2025 Meeting violated Connecticut General Statute Section 1-225c, the very

statute designed to protect transparency and public participation in government.

Mr. Pealer went on by noting Connecticut General Statute Section 1-225c required the

agenda of the regular meeting of every public agency be available to the public; and that it

shall be filed not less than 24-hours before the meeting to which it referred to. He noted the

posted agenda for the October 8, 2025 meeting did not include passage of the “An

Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission” as an

item for action, yet the Town Council proceeded to vote on it. He stated that this was a clear

breach of the 24-hour posting requirement.

Mr. Pealer continued to note that the State Statute does allow for the consideration of

business not included on the agenda, but only under strict conditions; which was “Upon the

affirmative vote of two-thirds of the members of a public agency present in voting, any

subsequent business not included on such filed agendas, may be considered and acted on at

such meetings.” Mr. Pealer stated this State Statute was the safeguard which ensures that any

deviation from the posted agenda is delivered, documented, and supported by a

supermajority.

However, he stated the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes and video contained no record of a

two-thirds vote for any subsequent business not included on such filed agenda to be

considered. He stated the Town Council did not have such a vote; No motion was made, No

roll call was taken, No acknowledgement of the procedural requirement was given. He stated

that this submission rendered the Town Council's adoption of the Ordinance procedurally

invalid, and now the Town Council was poised to Override the Mayor's October 16, 2025

Veto of an Ordinance that was never lawfully enacted in the first place.

Mr. Pealer stated for the Town Council to proceed with an Override Vote under these

circumstances would compound the error and further erode public trust. He commented that

it would signal that the process was secondary to the outcome, and that the ends justified

the means. He stated to be clear, that this matter was no longer theoretical noting that a

Formal Complaint has already been filed with the Connecticut Freedom of Information

Commission (FOIC). He stated that the FOIC had the authority to investigate violations of

Section 1-225c, and if it finds that the Town Council acted unlawfully, it may declare the

vote null and void.

Mr. Pealer stated that the FOIC may order Corrective Action, including a rescission of any

decisions made in violation of the State Statute. He noted that the FOIC may even impose

civil penalties if the violation was found to be intentional, noting that this was not without

precedent. He stated in the in Zoning Board of Appeals of Plainfield et Al. v. Foyk et Al.

2001, the Connecticut Appeals Court upheld the nation's authority to nullify actions taken in

violation of the 24-hour agenda rule. He noted the Court affirmed that procedural compliance

was not optional, it was foundational; and when a public agency failed to follow the Law, its

actions may be invalidated. He stated if the Town Council proceeded with the Vote to

Override the Mayor’s Veto of the Ordinance that it would not be an isolated misstep, noting

that it would continue a pattern already established.

Mr. Pealer concluded his comments by noting that the Town Council voted to approve the

Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget that two-thirds of the Ledyard’s citizens rejected not once,

but twice, by a margin of 2 to 1.

Mr. Eric Treaster, 10 Huntington Way, Ledyard, stated before he provided his comments

this evening regarding the appointment of Mr. Nate Woody that it was important to know

that he liked and respected Mr. Woody. He stated that Mr. Woody was intelligent, he was a

natural leader, honest and talented, and he cared deeply about housing, and the economic

development of their town. However, he stated that the Mr. Woody’s reappointment to the

Planning & Zoning Commission would have significant long-term impact on their town.

Mr. Treaster went on to state that his concerns were based on Mr. Woody’s statements and

his voting record, which were of the type and magnitude in which development would meet

faults; noting that they were not consistent with the preservation of the rural residential

character of their town; and the protection of the quality of life that many residents prefer.

Mr. Treaster stated that he believed that Mr. Woody would support regulations and vote in a

manner that would accelerate the urbanization of their town, which was why he was here this

evening.

Mr. Treaster continued by stating that he attended the two Meet the Candidates Events that

were held on October 5th and October 14th, noting that it was clear during both events that

almost everyone who was a candidate for the Town Council believed it was more important

to protect the rural residential character and quality of life in their town than it was to allow

large, multi-hundred-unit 5-and 6-story multi-family developments, such as those on Howard

Street in New London, and the 304-unit Trident Square Apartments just west of the Chinese

Restaurant in Groton.

Mr. Treaster noted that the Plan of Conservation & Development (POCD) contained several

conflicting goals, which was not unusual; and he noted the following example: The POCD

included a goal that the regulations must carefully protect the characteristics. He stated while

providing the flexibility needed to continue to attract new residents and new businesses that

before the Town Council acted on Mr. Woody’s reappointment they should ask Mr. Woody

how the town should attract a significant number of new residents, and, at the same time,

protect the character of Ledyard. Mr. Treaster stated that it was his opinion that Mr. Woody’s

voting record showed that he places a much higher priority on the economic development

and housing goals in the POCD than on the goals to protect Ledyard’s rural residential

character and the maintenance of property values. He stated that Mr. Woody once stated that

the need for affordable housing was a no-brainer; and at every opportunity Mr. Woody voted

for regulations intended to provide housing to attract new residents, but he has never

proposed or supported regulations intended to protect the character of Ledyard. He noted the

Plan of Conservation & Development (POCD) also included a goal to encourage traditional

village development in the Ledyard Center Development District and the Gales Ferry

Development District. However, he stated that Mr. Woody supported the deletion of the

Gales Ferry Village District and its corresponding design guidelines from the zoning

regulations. He stated that based on Mr. Woody’s statements and voting record, that Mr.

Woody was pro-development, and because he does not support a requirement for special

permits that he does not appear to care about ensuring high standards of design that were

necessary for protecting the rural residential character of their town. Mr. Treaster stated that

Mr. Woody should be asked about why he does not support the special permit requirement.

Mr. Treaster concluded by asking the Town Council to delay their vote this evening

regarding Mr. Woody’s appointment as a Regular Member of the Planning & Zoning

Commission, and he suggested that the Town Council interview Mr. Woody first to provide

him a fair opportunity to respond to the concerns he has raised this evening. Thank you.

Mr. Michael Cherry, 5 Whippoorwill Drive, Gales Ferry, stated as a long-standing practice

of countering everything that Mr. Treaster says, that he would like to comment on the

appointment of Mr. Nate Woody, noting that the Town Council was being asked to move

Mr. Woody from an Alternate Member of the Planning & Zoning Commission to a Regular

Member on the Commission. Mr. Cherry stated during the time that he served as Planning &

Zoning Commission’s Chairman that Mr. Woody, who served on the Commission for many

years was the Vice-Chairman. He stated when he stepped down from the Commission

because he was over engaged that Mr. Woody stepped up and served as the Commission’s

Chairman.

Mr. Cherry went on to explain Ledyard’s Zoning Regulations were based on the following:

· General State Statutes 8-2 - Mr. Cherry stated these State Statutes provided specific

things that local Zoning Regulations shall do; noting that they “Shall provide for the

development of housing opportunities, including opportunities for multifamily dwellings;

consistent with soil types, terrain, and infrastructure capacity for all residents of the

municipality”.

· Planning Region - Mr. Cherry explained that Connecticut was divided into nine planning

regions that provide a framework for municipalities to coordinate on common interests based

on where the municipality was located. He stated that the Southeastern Connecticut Planning

Region was to “Promote housing choice and economic diversity in housing, including

housing for both low- and moderate-income households.” Which was expressly allow the

development of housing to meet the housing needs identified.

· State's Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development - Mr. Cherry stated

this Plan was prepared in accordance with a section of the Statute, which included the

housing component and other components of the State Plan of Conservation and

Development. He explained that some reasonable considerations may be made for the

protection of historic features; and that it shall not be applied to deny any land use

application, including for any site plan approval, special permit, special exception or other

zoning approval on the basis of a district's character, unless such character was expressly

articulated in such regulations by clear and explicit fiscal standards for the site work and

structures. Mr. Cherry stated that this was not in Ledyard’s Zoning Regulations. He stated

that Ledyard’s Zoning Regulations were written to comply with their enabling Statute from

the state that gives them the power to have Zoning.

Mr. Cherry went on to state that Mr. Woody was instrumental in helping get Ledyard’s Plan

of Conservation & Development (POCD) done on time. He stated writing these Town

Documents was not done by one person, as they well know, being members of the Town

Council. He stated that it was a group effort, and he note that Mr. Woody always supported

the group. He stated that Mr. Woody would bring something to today's Planning & Zoning

Commission that was sorely needed, and that was his experience and his history. Mr. Cherry

stated that he strongly supported Mr. Woody to be promoted to a Regular Member from the

Alternate Position he was currently holding. He stated that he applauded Mr. Woody for

coming forward again and stepping back onto the Commission, noting that he had reluctantly

left the Planning & Zoning Commission in the past.

Mr. Cherry stated that he also wanted to address a couple other topics this evening noting

that tonight was the Town Council’s last meeting before the November 4, 2025 General

Election and that he wanted to thank them for their time and work they have done during the

past two years. He stated that he especially wanted to thank Councilor Kevin Dombrowski

and Councilor Tony Saccone who chose not to seek reelection.

Mr. Cherry went on to comment on the “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard

Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission” that may residents spoke about this evening. He

stated the Town Council had a unique opportunity to send the Ordinance back to

Administration Committee to look at it again and to make the complaints to the Freedom of

Information Commission moot and to fix things that the public has asked for. He suggested

the Administration Committee specifically, look at Mr. M. Dave Schroeder's input, noting

that Mr. Schroder talked about Section 7-3, and Section 7-7. Mr. Cherry stated that both of

these Sections in the Ordinance needed work. He stated that they had the unique opportunity

to send it back and get it right; noting that they would get credit for doing it once, which

seemed to be important. Thank you very much for your time.

Mr. Nathanial Woody, 770 Long Cove Road, Gales Ferry, stated since his name was being

used a lot this evening that he figured he should say something for those who do not know

him. He stated that he has been a Ledyard resident for 15-years and that his whole family has

been involved in volunteerism in the town since they moved to Ledyard. He stated they have

volunteered their time for both the town and land conservation organizations like Avalonia

Land Conservancy.

Mr. Woody addressed Mr. Treaster’s comments as follows:

· Affordable Housing - Mr. Woody stated that he does think affordable housing was

important, noting that he did not think that was difficult, and he did not think that was

particularly controversial. He stated that they know that the affordability of housing in

Connecticut was a problem, and that it was something they need to worry about.

· Urbanization - Mr. Woody stated in terms of what urbanization means or anything else

that his record reflected how he felt about land conservation stands on its own two feet. He

stated that he would challenge anyone to disagree with how important he felt land

conservation was.

Mr. Woody concluded his comments by stating that he appreciated Councilor Saccone’s and

Councilor Dombrowski’s service to the town. He stated that he has worked with both

gentlemen at various times; and that he appreciated everything that they have done, noting

that their experience will be missed. Thanks a lot.

Ms. Toni Franklyn, 27 Sable Woods Drive, Ledyard, stated that she moved to Ledyard

three-weeks ago; and therefore, she had no opinions of most of you; however, she wanted to

thank the Town Council for the work that they do. She proceeded to state that she was a

federal civilian worker; and a paralegal for the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps in the

Navy. She noted that her Portfolio was Ethics, and before that, she worked for the Special

Operations Command as their FOIA Analyst. She stated with her background that they could

just imagine the cross-section of weirdness that she felt she just dropped into. She stated

from her perspective that ethics was fundamental to what they do every single day. She

stated that she writes instructions, processes, and procedures for the Navy noting all of this

was important. However, she stated the basis was to ensure the left and right limits for

people. Therefore, she stated that she did not understand the controversy regarding the

adoption of “An Ordinance to Establish a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics

Commission”. She stated because she has not been here very long that she may not have all

the information, but the push back against ethics was a little shocking, when you see what

was going on in country right now on both sides. However, she stated in a town like this,

noting that it was such a bucolic. wonderful little place, that she did not understand the

concept of saying that they did not need ethics, and they did not need oversight, and they did

not need their neighbors in their business. She stated as a new resident that she was trying to

get a feel for the town, and this pushback regarding ethics was a strange thing for her. She

stated that she wanted to put her two cents in, because apparently it was the only view that

was opposite of what everybody else was saying this evening. She concluded her comments

by stating that she appreciated all that the Town Council does for their community, no matter

what party they were.

Chairman St. Vil welcomed Ms. Franklyn to Ledyard, noting that it was not always like this.

Mr. Gary McKeon, 15 Elizabeth George Drive, Mashantucket, stated that God gave him two

ears and one mouth, noting that he has listened to a lot back and forth about the “An

Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission”. He

stated because he was a common sense guy that he was questioning what the underlying

issue was; and the rush to move this half-baked Ordinance forward that was going to create a

Commission; without doing their due diligence. He stated the people of the Town of Ledyard

voted the members of the Town Council in to do a job; and that they deserve better than the

Reader's Digest version of the reading of the Ordinance that no one else saw at the October

8, 2025 Town Council meeting. He stated that was wrong, and he questioned what was

wrong with waiting a little bit; and what was wrong with contacting the Town Attorney. He

stated the Town Attorney has sent emails but that nobody replied. He stated the Town

Attorney was available and the town pays him for his knowledge. He stated that he knows

that he was not the smartest guy in the room; so he listens to his Attorneys when they tell

him to do something; and when his Attorney says let's have a conversation. He stated the

Town Attorney has been saying lets have a conversation for the last three months.

Mr. McKeon continued to note that he was gracious enough to start employment in this town

in 1978, noting that they had conversations between both sides. He stated as someone

mentioned earlier this evening that nobody knew who was a Republican and who was a

Democrat and nobody cared, because every single person in this town wanted what was in

the best interest for the town. He stated if they wanted to see “Community” they should go to

a the football field; or they could go to a volleyball game tomorrow night at 4:30 p.m., noting

that Ledyard’s Girls were in in the semifinals for the ECC. He stated that was the community

they have. He stated when he watches his grandson play football in Colchester; they three

times the amount of people at those events watching our kids and grandkids. He stated that’s

our community that nobody was talking about.

Mr. McKeon stated for the last two years, there has not been a conversation, noting that it

has been one-sided. He stated we have one mouth, and nobody was listening at all, on either

side. He cautioned the Town Council not to move forward with Overriding the Mayor’s Veto

on the “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics

Commission”, noting to be clear, they all believe that they need to live by ethics. He stated

the members of the Town Council were entrusted with investigating ethics; and it was

ridiculous to think that they were would get politics out by having a separate ethics

commission, noting that they were living in fantasy land.

Mr. McKeon concluded his comments by noting what was happening on social media and

how they were attacking one another was embarrassing. He stated that common sense

needed to prevail, noting that he would have a drink with anybody here just to have a

conversation. Thank you, and that he would see you on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Mrs. Deborah Edwards, 30 Bluff Road West, Gales Ferry, stated that she attended the Meet

the Candidates Events that was held on

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Chairman St. Vil stated that he would like to begin Councilor Comments this evening. He

stated that he would like to tell a quick story, noting that last week while he was out talking

to residents that someone came up to him who has lived in town longer than he has been

alive. He stated when they shook his hand, they said: “What's right is right, and what's

wrong is wrong”. He stated that he asked the resident what they were talking about and that

the resident laid out an issue that was going on in town that had nothing to do with ethics;

and they again said: “What's right is right, and what's wrong is wrong”. He stated the

resident looked him in the eye, shook his hand and said to him “Do what's right”.

Chairman St. Vil stated this resident’s comment resonated with him, noting that his first

thoughts were “Does this person think I don’t do what’s right… What does this person think

about….. How do they think I live my life?”. Chairman St. Vil stated that his whole life,

people have looked at him and judged him, and yet they know nothing about him. However,

he stated they have decided, just by the way that he looked, that he was never going to get

into

that college, yet he got into that college; they thought he would never graduate, and he

graduated, they thought he was never going to be an engineer; and he became an engineer,

that he was never going to get a promotion; etc.,…...He stated no matter what he did that

they kept raising the bar over and over again, noting that after while this can make a person

a little cynical; and make them say, I don't need anyone to understand what's right. He

stated that he does what’s right. He stated that his Creator has given him a guidebook for

which he follows, and he does what's right, and he was not going try to prove it to anybody

else, because they would raise the bar.

Chairman St. Vil stated when this resident who had been in town more years than he has

been alive, shook his hand, they defined this town that he has grown to love; and the town

that has loved him back; and has put him the position he was in right now. He stated they

were setting an expectation, and that he heard a little of that expectation tonight; which was

“That what's right was not about whether you were a Democrat or a Republican”, noting

that what the resident was saying was to “Do what's right for the town”. He stated that

resonated with him, because what's right for the town was not what's right for Gary St. Vil.

He stated for the folks that were on social media and were accusing him of not having ethics,

accusing him of being incompetent, accusing this Town Council and this Team of being

mischievous and hiding the ball, that he would say to them “prove the facts”. He stated that

he knows what’s right, and that he knows that what they did was right. He stated that he was

going to proceed, and he was going to do what's right, and he was not going to explain it. He

stated the resident that shook his hand had a higher expectation, which was not to push

people down, but to lift people up. He stated that he knows what's right, and that what's right

was that they all do this together.

Chairman St. Vil continued by stating that he finds it frustrating that the people that do not

want an Ethics Commission, because it was the Town Council's responsibility to deal with

any ethics issues, were the same people that went to the State and filed an FOIA Commission

Complaint. He stated they did not come to the Town Council, noting that no one came to him

with a grievance, no one emailed him to say that they had a concern, and let's talk about it.

He stated they went to an outside commission which was the same outside commission that

were trying to stand up to implement the ethics. He stated the same people that say that they

do not want an Ethics Commission, because they were afraid of the cost associated with it,

have now created costs for the town. He stated regardless of what happens, that the lawyer

wins. He stated the lawyer would get paid. So for the same people that care about the

accounting associated with the Ethics Commission, that the lawyer was happy, because he

was now involved now noting that the Town Attorney was attending tonight’s meeting

on-line.

Chairman St. Vil stated that Gary St. Vil wanted to forge ahead with the “An Ordinance

Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission”; however, he stated

that was not what was right for the Town; noting “Do what’s right for the town”. Therefore,

he stated that he was going to reset, noting for those who were questioning what happened at

the October 8, 2025 meeting. He explained that he worked 80 hours a week at his job; and

Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher helps him and beats him over the head and

repeatedly asks “Did you take a look at the agenda?; and that the Agenda does not go out

until he looked at it, and until he approved it. He stated for those who were questioning the

Agenda that they were right to question it because he questioned it too. He stated that the

item on the Agenda looked weird; and it did not look like the September 24th Motion. He

noted that he and Ms. Maher talked about why it looked different and it was because it said:

“Discussion and possible action”. He stated that he checked Robert's Rules, and he checked

online; and he said alright let's send it, let's use it. He went on to note during the night of the

October 8, 2025 meeting no Town Councilor or the Mayor, said that the Motion presented

was not allowed. He stated people did not agree with it, people said that they did not have

enough time to review the Ordinance. He sated no one said that it was an illegal motion the

night of meeting. However, he stated afterwards on social media he heard that “He violated

law. He was incompetent”. He stated if those people called him that he would have had a

conversation with them and he would have explained what Robert Rules said; and he would

have told them the reasons why they thought what they did was right. He stated he would

have had a conversation with those individuals; and that he was going to have a

conversation with them now, because it was not about him. He stated it was about the town,

because now there was the potential to incur costs for the town. He stated as much as he

knew that he was right, and he wanted to fight, and he want to prove the fact that he was

right, that he had to “Do what's right for the town”.

Chairman St. Vil went on to note that he contacted the Town Attorney and that the Town

Attorney said that what the Town Council did at the October 8, 2025 meeting was wrong and

that he thought that they could have potentially violated FOIA, and should this go before the

FOIA Commission they may incur costs. However, he noted that the Town Attorney ended

their conversation by stating there was a State Ombudsman who was really the expert, and

he could reach out to him. Chairman St. Vil noted that he told the Town Attorney that he

would personally reach out the State Ombudsman; and he noted that he would have done that

for all of those who had concerns, stating that it did not have to be done over social media,

stating that this could have been addressed with a telephone call.

Chairman St. Vil continued by noting his conversation with the State Ombudsman who

explained that although the item on the Agenda looked different, that what they did was

right. He stated that he would forward the email to the Town Council Office to become part

of record.

Chairman St. Vil stated there were some people that were absolutely against establishing an

Ethics Commission; noting that there was nothing that they could do or say to convince

them. However, he asked that they stop making excuses, and that they just say they were

against establishing an Ethics Commission; and let the votes fall where they may. He stated

for those who were in the middle, and they thought that the “An Ordinance Establishing a

Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission” needed some tweaks that they

would have an opportunity to do some tweaks. He asked that residents watch what they do.

He stated there was a lot of rhetoric, and a lot of fake news. He stated that he would ask

people not to listen to the rhetoric, not listen to the conjecture, and to watch people's actions.

He stated through these actions they would see that their intent was to “Do what's right for

the town”. Thank you.

Councilor Barnes announced that the Ledyard High School’s Music’s Meet the Choir

Concert was being held this evening, noting that it was a wonderful event. He stated that due

to tonight’s Town Council meeting that he most likely would not be able to attend, noting

that he did have a seat next to his wife, should the meeting end earlier than expected.

Councilor Brunelle noted during Residents Comments earlier this evening that someone said,

“You are probably not happy to see them here this evening”. She stated that she was happy

to see everyone; even if they do not like her, or if they thought she was a horrible person; that

she was still happy to see them. She stated that she liked to hear what others have to say,

noting that she may not like it. She stated that they could disagree, but that she did not hate

anybody. She stated that she did not think that she was right all the time, noting that she was

opinionated; as others may be. However, she stated that she was opinionated because she

wanted to stand up for what was right, and that she wanted to do the right thing. She stated

that she was motivated by her heart and what she felt was right, noting that she was the first

one to help anybody, noting that she did not care what party they were. She concluded her

comments by stating that she was happy to see everybody here; and if residents had things to

say that they should say them, because they have to hear things they do not like, stating how

else would they challenge their own thoughts, learn, grow, and step outside of their comfort

zone. She went on to state that she did not like hearing people say that they have nefarious

reasons, noting that she had no nefarious reasons or anything. She stated that she did not

dislike anybody, she did not have any special back dirt on anybody; and that she liked

everybody and she wanted to see everybody succeed.

Councilor Brunelle continued by noting that Friday, October 24, 2025 that Parks and

Recreation would be hosting their Annual Trunk or Treat. She stated that a lot of kids would

be out having a lot of fun; and that she hoped to see folks there.

Councilor Ryan stated that he appreciated everybody who came out tonight, both online and

in-person. He stated the comments were listened to and received; and he thanked the

residents. He continued by stating that he wanted to address the following comments:

· Mr. Whit Irwin noted that he served on the New London City Counsel. Councilor Ryan

provided clarification, noting that he served on the New London Planning & Zoning

Commission, not the Town Council.

· Ms. Toni Franklyn’s Comments - Councilor Ryan stated that he appreciated Ms.

Franklyn’s comments, noting that that it was nice when somebody new to the community

wanted to get involved. He stated that he hoped what Ms. Franklyn hears tonight would

provide her with a little more perspective on why they currently were where they were with

the ethics issue that she discussed.

Councilor Ryan continued by noting the following:

· Trunk or Treat - Councilor Ryan stated that the October 24, 2025 Trunk or Treat was

already mentioned this evening. However, he stated that Halloween was next week; and he

urged residents to be careful as they go Trick-or-Treating with their little ones. He noted

that it was dark out, and he reminded parents to carry flashlights, noting that dark costumes

were pretty popular. He also reminded motorists to be careful and pay extra attention as kids

would be out in their neighborhoods.

· November 4, 2025 General Election - Councilor Ryan stated that Early Voting has

started and would run for 14-days from October 20 - November 2, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. -

6:00 p.m., and on October 28 & 30 Early Voting would be open from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

He stated the Polls would be open on November 4, 2025 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. He stated

should residents have questions that they should contact Town Clerk Patricia Riley at (860)

464-3229; noting that she was extremely helpful.

· Meet the Candidates - Councilor Ryan stated, as some residents mentioned earlier this

evening, that a Meet the Candidates Event would be held tomorrow night at the Middle

School at 6:30 p.m.; and that he hoped to see a lot of faces there.

· Chairman St. Vil’s Comments - Councilor Ryan stated that he wanted to directly address

Chairman St. Vil noting that some people did go directly to him as well as the rest of the

Town Council with their concerns. He stated that this was the forum that the public was

allowed to bring up their concerns to them directly as Councilors and as the Town Council

Chairman. He stated as Chairman St. Vil mentioned that the Agenda was his responsibility;

and that it was not the Town Council’s Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher’s

responsibility; noting that Ms. Maher was the one that needs to work with the Chairman to

make sure that the Agenda reflected the motions he would like to take. He stated that he

could not speak for anybody else on the dais, noting that there was actually no problem with

the item (Item #6) on the Agenda, had that item been followed. However, he stated that was

not the Motion that was executed and voted on; that was why he was probably seeing some

pushback.

Councilor Ryan continued by addressing the State Ombudsman that Chairman St. Vil

referred to, and he questioned by chance, was the gentleman Russell Blair at the Freedom of

Information Act (FOIA). Chairman St. Vil stated the gentleman was at the FOIA. Councilor

Ryan stated that he talked with Mr. Blair himself, because he was curious about the

procedure in general. He stated that Mr. Blair mentioned that he did talk to Chairman St. Vil

and that the he actually sent the email to him that he had sent to Chairman St. Vil. Councilor

Ryan stated when he talked to Mr. Blair about some facts that surrounded the process and the

procedure that was followed, and what was literally on the agenda, etc., and other things that

were public record that Mr. Blair was pretty clear in that he indicated that the best course of

action may be a complete rewrite. Councilor Ryan stated that Mr. Blair also noted that any

opinion he provided whether it was to Chairman St. Vil or to him in the email or that any

opinion that he provided was not a legal opinion, and that it was not an official position of

the Connecticut FOIA. Councilor Ryan stated they only have one official legal position as of

today. Thank you.

Councilor Saccone stated he wanted to thank the Mayor, Town Council, and the residents

for all the kind words tonight. He stated other than serving his Country in the Navy, that this

was the second best service he has ever given to the community. He stated that his

hometown was East Greenbush, New York; and he noted that he has lived in Ledyard for

37 years, and that he raised his family here, and that was the reason he has volunteered to

serve his community.

Councilor Saccone continued by noting the turnout for tonight’s Town Council meeting,

noting that it was awesome. He stated that residents come out for something they were very

passionate about. He stated that residents were also passionate about finance, noting that

three members of the Town Council, himself, Councilor Buhle, and Councilor Ryan served

on the Finance Committee the past two-years. He stated residents did not like how the Fiscal

Year 2025/2026 Budget turned out, noting that he was also a taxpayer and he did not like

how it turned out either. He stated that they do not like the increases, noting that he worked

at the school for two-years as the Assistant Facility Manager; and he stated that there was so

much work that has to be done at the schools, noting that they needed two boilers at $6

million each. He stated that he knows that residents do not want to hear that, but some of the

things that the town was working with were bare bones. He stated that hopefully the town

could get money from state grants to replace things like the boilers. He stated if this crowd

would show up for some of the finance meetings, in particular, and the Budget Work

Sessions and Public Hearing that they would see, where this town was. He stated before the

first meeting Budget Work Session Meeting the budget already was in the negative by $2.4

million because of school raises, increases in healthcare insurance, and the Public Act 24-46

“An Act Establishing a Property Tax Exemption for Veterans Who Have a Service-Connected

Permanent and Total Disability Rating” that resulted in a $520,000 reduction in tax revenues.

He stated if this crowed would just show up at those meetings that they would see that they

worked very hard to pass a budget that the taxpayers could live by. Thank you.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she wanted to clarify a few things that have been

repeated over and over again since the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget was approved. She

noted as Mr. Irwin said during Residents Comments earlier this evening that a lot of the

members of the Town Council were first-time Councilors, noting that none of them wrote the

rules of how to do the budget and how to get it approved in the town, but that they followed

the rules that the ones that came before them put in the Town Charter. She noted that the

Town Charter said that they make a Budget; put it to a Referendum; if the Budget was

passed, then it becomes the Budget. She stated if the Budget does not pass, then it goes back

to the Town Council to make adjustments, and to send back to the Voters. She stated if the

Voters decided they did not want the second Budget that it would go back to the Town

Council. She read the following from the Town Charter: “In the event that the second

referendum does not approve a budget, the Town Council shall adopt a final budget by the

fourth Monday in June. Should both the Referenda and the Town Council fail to adopt a

final Budget by the fourth Monday in June, the budget that was presented at the second

referendum shall be deemed to have been adopted, and expenditures made in accordance

therewith for the ensuing fiscal year”

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went on to explain in May, 2025 the Town Council did a Budget, it

went to Referendum, it failed, it came back to the Town Council, they did some cuts, and

some changes, and submitted it again to the Voters. She stated it went through Referendum,

it failed, it came back to the Town Council, they did some more changes, and then the Town

Council voted on it. She stated that those were the rules that were in the Town Charter. She

noted as it was said before, they were all first-timers, they did not try to change the rules,

noting that the Town Charter was done in 2017-2018; noting that some of them were not

living in Ledyard at that time; so those were the facts. She stated if it was up to her that she

would have submitted it to the third Referendum. She stated that she wanted to make that

clear, because it keeps getting repeated over and over and over again that they did not listen

to the voters, and that they did not do the right procedure. She stated that it gets

overwhelming sometimes to see so much stuff like that.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went on to state in addition, that she wished more people would

come to the Finance Committee meetings, or if they cannot come, that they at least join via

Zoom. She stated the reality was that a lot of people were saying, that they should have cut

$500,000 more from the Board of Education Budget. She stated if they had done that, the

mil rate increase still would have been more than 1.5 mils. She stated that was the reality,

noting that it would not have been zero, it would not have been 0.1, 0.2, or less than 1 mil.

She stated that it was still going to be high even if they cut $1 million from the Board of

Education; stating that was the facts. She stated that they tried to do what was the best for

the town; and they were doing it in good faith because no one here liked to pay so much

taxes, and they do not come here saying, “Oh, I want all the residents to pay a bunch of

taxes”; and she commented “Of course not.”. She stated they want everyone to succeed, and

they cared a lot about the schools, too, because they want all those kids to succeed, because

those kids were going to be the adults that were going to be living here; and they were going

to be getting jobs, and would be paying the property taxes in the future.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she knows they can disagree and everything, and that

she appreciated Mr. Munger’s comments, because even though they do disagree, he was

always the polite when he tells them that they disagree; and she really appreciated that. She

stated when somebody tells her that she was wrong, that they were not yelling at her; and

they were being very respectful, because she feels that she was always very respectful to

everyone, and that was what she would want everyone to do.

Councilor Parad stated it was nice to see so many people here today. She stated one of the

things that she cared about was to make sure they build up their community from the

grassroots up. She stated what she saw tonight was a well-orchestrated community grassroots

movement, noting that they could use that energy to do more good things in this town. She

stated that she thought there was a lot of room where they could work on the next budget

cycle together by improving their healthcare system; which was a big piece of the budget.

She stated if anybody was interested in helping, that the Community Relations Committee

for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was working on improving their healthcare system

behind the scenes. She stated the Committee talked about Primary Care for All at their last

meeting, and she noted that community involvement was key. Thank you.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that he would like thank everybody who showed up tonight,

and he welcomed Ms. Franklin to Ledyard. He addressed Ms. Franklyn’s comments

regarding ethics, and he stated there was not one person who sits here on this dais who does

not believe in ethics. He also stated that he did not think there was one person in this town

who was sitting in this room right now who does not believe that they should follow ethics.

He stated that they should all be ethical; they should all behave ethically; whether it was here

in the town, or in their daily jobs, and in their lives. He explained that the disagreement they

were having was whether there was a need for a Commission and whether it was required or

not; and about the language that was in the Ordinance that has been drafted. He stated that he

wanted to clarify “That there was nobody here on this Town Council; whether they were

Republican or Democrat that thinks they should behave unethically”.

Councilor Dombrowski continued by noting that tonight was the Town Council’s last

meeting before the November 4, 2025 General Election; and that he wanted to wish Good

Luck to all of his fellow Councilors who were running for the next Town Council and also

the Board of Education Members who were up for re-election, as well as all the other

candidates who have chosen to put their name into the hat to get their chance to serve their

community. He went on to thank all the voters and electors in this town that have done their

due diligence to put, in both the seats of the Board of Education and the Town Council, those

people who they think would best serve their community, regardless of party. He asked

voters not to think of party; and to think about who they think was the right person to sit

here, and to help guide the town into the future. He stated that was his recommendation to

voters.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that he has chosen not to run to seek reelection this year. He

noted that he figured seven- terms on the Town Council was enough; and that it was time for

him to step down. He stated that Mr. Nathaniel Woody made a fine a fine offer, noting that if

the Town Council approved to move him from an Alternate Member to a Regular Member

on the Planning & Zoning Commission that there would be an Alternate seat open on the

Planning and Zoning Commission which was where he started serving the community many,

many moons ago. He stated that he may take Mr. Woody up on his comment; unless the

Mayor puts him on the Zoning Board of Appeals or some other Board. Thank you.

Chairman St. Vil stated that this Town Council still had a few more meetings before their

term ended. Councilor Dombrowski stated that the Town Council does have one more

Regular Meeting. However, he stated because this was the last meeting before the Election,

he wanted to thank all those who have put their name in the hat, noting that it was a big

commitment. He stated that these people sitting at the dais this evening, who were

first-timers, realize how much time and energy was required of them. He stated it was not

just a couple of meetings a month. He noted the time and effort behind the scenes to review

ordinances, research legislation, and state statutes to make sure that they were trying to do

things right for the town. He noted Chairman St. Vil’s comment earlier this evening about

what does Robert Rules of Order say.

He stated he did not believe that anybody in any way acted in any way nefariously to move

an this Ethics Commission Ordinance forward. However, he stated it was his opinion, in this

case, that they should slow down, take a look, and do the right thing. Thank you.

Councilor Buhle noted the following:

· Trunk or Treat - Councilor Buhle noted as some Town Councilors have already

mentioned this evening, the Parks & Recreation Trunk or Treat would be held on Friday,

October 24, 2025. She stated that she was going to be the Statute of Liberty; and that once

again they would be doing the Candy Election and would find out if Skittles retains the title.

· 5K Color Run - Councilor Buhle stated that she had the opportunity to run the 5K Color

Run that Ledyard Parks and Recreation hosted on October 11, 2025, noting that she did not

come in last. However, she stated that she was the most colorful because if you were slow

they could hit you with a lot of color. She stated she was grateful to all that worked to put on

the event, and she recognized the Mayor’s Executive Assistant/Social Services Coordinator

Kristen Chapman for her part in the Event.

Councilor Buhle continued by noting that she wanted to address specific comments that were

made about her both on-line and in other places. She stated that she wanted to be clear

noting that a message that was attached in email was being misunderstood. She stated as

Councilor Dombrowski stated that she also did not believe anyone on this Town Council or

in this town is acting nefariously. She stated with that, she would ask that they give her the

same grace. She noted the email she received said: “Following up on when I can anticipate

receiving the electronic copy of the red line draft of the Town Attorney draft showing all

deletions, additions, edits”. Councilor Buhle noted that her reply to the email was as follows:

“I’m working on it now and anticipate having it to you shortly”. Councilor Buhle stated that

she was not changing the Ordinance that was voted on at the October 8, 2025 Town Council

meeting. She stated if they were to compare the red line draft that was sent to Mayor Allen

58 minutes after she said “I'm working on it now” to the draft Ordinance she sent to

Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher during the meeting that the Town Council voted on

with the proposed amendments; that they were the same draft, with some letters in blue; and

some letters in red. She stated to be clear, that she was so determined to send exactly the

same draft she had forwarded, that when she caught a typo that the attorney also caught, that

she left the typo because she was not going to change the draft that the Town Council voted

on. She stated that being said, the minutes reflect her adding the word services, which should

actually be there, noting that it was neither here nor there.

Councilor Buhle went on to state that she was upset that “I am working on it now” was taken

to mean that “She was modifying something nefariously, or illegally, or maliciously”. She

stated that she was a very strong believer that if she did not have integrity, then she had

nothing, noting that was how she lives her my life.

Councilor Buhle stated when she looked at the October 8, 2025 Town Council Agenda that

to be honest, she saw “Discussion and possible action”, which was exactly what the

Administration Committee Agenda said, noting that she did not see “ “for preparation at a

public hearing”. She stated that she to took “ possible action” to mean “possible action”.

She stated that she understands that there was a difference in opinion and a misunderstanding

on that, commenting that it was neither here- nor there. She stated because she knew Town

Council’s September 24, 2025 Agenda included a Motion to adopt, which was cancelled,

that she partially assumed that October 8, 2025 Agenda; following the cancelled meeting

would have been the same.

Councilor Buhle commented on having her integrity questioned over an email she sent. She

stated to Mayor Allyn, III that she had no intention to ignore him. She stated that her

intention, as she responded within one minute flat of receiving the Mayor’s email was to

make him aware that she was treating this with the almost respect to make sure that he had it

in a timely manner, and she did not want the Mayor to be like “ Well, I emailed her, and I

haven't heard anything back, I guess she's not doing it”, and assume an hour later that she

was not working on it, because she was diligently working on it, and so she apologizes for

any confusion. However, she stated that she was very hurt by the insinuation that she would

go out of her way to modify something, or edit it, or make it different after the Town Council

had voted on it. Thank you.

Chaiman St. Vil stated there has been a lot of discussion this evening, noting that the one

thing they were all aligned on was that the folks sitting on the dais have shared values to do

what's right. He stated for them to move forward, that they were going to need to talk and

communicate, and agree to disagree sometimes. He stated that he respected everyone who

was on the dais this evening.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve Regular Town Council Minutes of October 8, 2025

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she would like to amend the Minutes

because there has been some confusion.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated she was referring to Item #6 noting that the Motion was

written in the October 8, 2025 Minutes as noted below:

“MOTION to adopt a proposed “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of

Ethics and Ethics Commission” as presented in the draft dated September 10, October 8,

2025”.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Motion should not have struck out “September 10” and

it should not have included “October 8”.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Motion as stated should have been written in the

Minutes as follows:

MOTION to adopt a proposed “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of

Ethics and Ethics Commission” as presented in the draft dated September 10, 2025.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she watched the meeting video to make sure what

Councilor Buhle read that day. She stated that Councilor Buhle stated “draft dated

September 10, 2025. Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she would like the minutes to

reflect that because there was confusion that no one had the draft, when it was the same

draft, but the amendments that Councilor Buhle proposed were for the draft of September

10th.. She noted that it was not a new draft that we were trying to amend. It was the draft of

the Public Hearing, but by adding the “October 8, 2025” it looks like it was a completely

new draft. She stated based on the legal opinion of the lawyer he actually mentions that, and

that it was one of the reasons regarding the FOIA complaint; so she would like that to be

corrected, and just to say the date is September 10th.

Councilor Garcia Irizarry went on to note that if they keep going in the minutes, then there is

a motion that says October 8th, after all the amendments have been done. She stated that was

correct, because that was what was done after all the amendments.

From: Ritter, Matthew D. <MRitter@goodwin.com

<mailto:MRitter@goodwin.com>>

Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 7:23 AM

To: Gary St. Vil <GSVil@ledyardct.org <mailto:GSVil@ledyardct.org>>

Subject: RE: Request for Legal Opinion - October 8, 2025 Town Council Vote

on Ethics Ordinance

Gary - The Freedom of Information Commission has consistently held that a

meeting agenda “must fairly apprise the public of the action proposed” and “of

the matters to be taken up at the meeting in order to [permit the public] to

properly prepare and be present to express their views.” See Zoning Board of

Appeals of the Town of Plainfield v. Freedom of Information Commission

(Docket No. CV 99-047917-S, 2000 WL 765186 (superior court, judicial

district of New Britain, May 3, 2000).

On October 8, 2025, the agenda item on the Town Council agenda was as

follows:

“Discussion and possible action to review and consider text amendments to the

proposed “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics And

Ethics Commission” in preparation to present at a Public Hearing.”

A plain reading of the agenda item indicates that the Town Council planned to

discuss and possibly take action on “text amendments” to the ordinance and that

these text amendments were to be made “in preparation to present at a Public

Hearing.” That language indicates that the Town Council was planning on

having an additional public hearing after the text amendments were adopted. It

calls into question whether the public was fairly apprised of the action taken that

night to adopt the ordinance in full.

Section 1-225(c) of the General Statutes does authorize a legislative body to add

items to a regular meeting agenda “ [u]pon the affirmative vote of two-thirds of

the members of a public agency present and voting.” However, the minutes do

not indicate that a motion was made to add an item to the agenda to formally

adopt the ordinance. In addition, the final vote was 5-3-1 so the 2/3 vote

threshold was not met even if the minutes are incomplete and do not properly

reflect a motion to add an item to the agenda.

It is also worth noting that the motion in the meeting minutes (See Page 14 of

25) does not mirror the agenda item. The motion that was made and seconded

is to “adopt a proposed “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of

Ethics and Ethics Commission” as presented in the draft dated September 10,

2025.” The motion is then amended it appears to change the date from

September 10, 2025 to October 8, 2025. The motion differs from the agenda

item in that it adopts the ordinance as opposed to text amendments and there

is no mention of the language “in preparation to present at a Public Hearing.”

The motion also changes the date of the draft under review which provides

further concern that the public was not properly informed of the action to be

taken at the meeting.

Based upon my review above, I believe that Section 1-225(c) was violated and

the Town Council should consider that the Freedom of Information Commission

(“FOIC”), if a complaint were filed, may hold that the October 8, 2025 action is

null and void.

The FOIC has an ombudsman who is very helpful in advising municipalities in

situations like this. With the Town Council’s permission, I can reach out to the

ombudsman and get his feedback.

Thanks, Matt

Chairman St. Vil noted for clarification, that Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher drafts

the meeting minutes; and she sends them to the Town Council for their review ahead of

time. However, he stated that they were not final minutes until the Town Council votes on

them. He noted that they should be aware that the Minutes were not final until they have

been reviewed and approved by the Town Council.

VOTE: 9 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AS AMENDED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications List - October 22, 2025

Chairman St. Vil stated a Communications List has been provided on the meeting portal for

tonight’s meeting, and he noted there were referrals were listed.

REFERALS

XI.

COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS

Administration Committee Report Fiscal Year 2025/2026

Councilor Buhle stated the Administration Committee had three items of business on

tonight’s meeting.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Report- Fiscal Year

2025/2026

Councilor Brunelle stated no updates since the last Town Council meeting.

RESULT:

Finance Committee Report Fiscal Year 2025/2026

Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee had a few items on tonight’s agenda.

RESULT:

LUPPW Committee Report Fiscal Year 2025/2026

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the LUPPW Committee had four items on tonight’s agenda.

RESULT:

Liaison Reports

Historic District Commission Report Fiscal Year 2025/2026

Councilor Barnes noted that the Historic District Commission met on October 20, 2025 and

were working on their proposal to seek a Historic Designation of the Spicer Homestead

Ruins. He stated that they plan to bring their proposal to the Land Use/Planning/Public

Works Committee in December.

Library Commission Report Fiscal Year 2025/2026

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Library Commission met on October 20, 2025 and

reviewed the following: Total Circulation increased by 5.35% with 112,138 items, Physical

Circulation increased by 4% with 81,621 items; Digital Circulation increased by 9.3% with

30,517 items; Patron Visits Total increase by 13.55% with a total of 45,794 patron visits (

Bill Library Visits increased 4.93% with 26,217 patron visits; and Gales Ferry Library visits

increased by 13.55% with 19,570 patron visits). Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that the

Library was a great resource, noting that it was not only for books, but patrons could also use

the computers, and they have a lot of programs, and they have access to the State Library.

She noted that the patrons could also obtain passes from the Library to museum such as

Mystic Seaport, and the Aquarium.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that he was pleased to see that Ledyard’s Libraires were

seeing a higher participation noting that it was a positive trend. He asked whether the Library

Commission had an indication of what was leading the trend for the increased use of the

Libraries; and how they could keep building on that trend moving forward. Councilor

Garcia-Irizzary stated during the past few years the Libraires were actively providing

programing for kids and adults that bring a lot of people from the community into the

Libraries. She noted that she would bring Councilor Dombrowski’s question to the Library

Commission.

XII. REPORT OF THE MAYOR

Mayor Report Fiscal Year 2025/2025

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Police Department Staffing - Mayor Allyn

stated Chief Rich had four final interviews pending for the replacement an officer who

retired and one that left their Department. He thanked Officer Browning and Officer

Krojewski for their service to Ledyard; (2) Elks Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner -

October 10, 2025 - Mayor Allyn stated he attended the Dinner at which Chief Rich was the

keynote speaker, noting that Ledyard was well represented. He stated the very First Award

presented that evening was to Ledyard’s Officer Kyle Gleason for his life-saving efforts for

an individual that drove off the Yale Boat Launch in Gales Ferry. He stated Officer Gleason

jumped into the water made heroic efforts to save the gentleman. Mayor Allyn stated that he

would also like to thank Officer Buschel; Officer McKinney and the Gales Ferry Fire

Company for their tremendous efforts to get the gentleman out of the submerged car; (3)

Library Director Position - Mayor Allyn stated the town received seven Applications to fill

the Library Director Position, noting that they would starting the review process. He thanked

Library Staff Matt, Erica, and Stacy, noting that they have been the glue that has kept the

operation together, noting their efforts do not go unnoticed; (4) Local Transportation Capital

Improvement Plan (LoTCIP) Grant - Lantern Hill Road Bridge - Mayor Allyn noted that

Ledyard had their Pre-Application Meeting with the Southeastern Connecticut Council of

Governments (SECOG) to replace the another Bridge on Lantern Hill Road. He stated the

Engineering Firm that was hired by SECOG was now reviewing Ledyard’s engineering work

to see that all was in order to move forward with the Grant Application; (5) Road

Resurfacing Work- Sandy Hollow Road - Mayor Allyn a stretch of Sandy Hollow Road from

the reservoir, back up to Route 117 would be resurfaced before the weather gets cold. He

noted that Ledyard’s Road Surface Rating (RSR) was about 86.5; (6) General Election -

November 4, 2025 - Mayor Allyn noted the State of Connecticut just rolled out a New

Election Reporting Software. He noted the challenge regarding timing with only two weeks

before the General Election. He thanked the Registrars of Voters and the Town Clerk, noting

they were working to get up to speed with the new reporting software with the elections are

underway, noting that Early Voting began on October 22, 2025; (7) Annual Audit - Fiscal

Year Ending June 30, 2025 - Mayor Allyn stated Auditors CliftonLawsonAllen were in

Town Hall last week. He stated the town’s financials were in great shape, and the Audit

should be delivered on-time in December; (8) Property Revaluations - Mayor Allyn stated

the filed work for the Revaluation of town Real Estate has been completed, and the data

analysis was underway. He stated that he wanted to caution residents that their house values

increased dramatically, noting they would see about 60% increase. He stated if all things

were equal and the rate doubled that the mil rate would be cut in half. Therefore, he

reminded property owners that they could not associate their new Revaluation with the

current mil rate; (9) Former Ledyard Center School Construction Permit - Mayor Allyn

stated a Permit was issued for the lower wing of the former school building to construct 12

single floor apartments, noting that the former classrooms were going to be made into 900

square feet apartments; (10) Deer Strikes - Mayor Allyn Ledyard has had 43 Deer versus

Cars Strikes to date. He stated this was the time of year the deer become active and he

cautioned motorists to be mindful of the deer; (11) Missing Stop Sign - Mayor Allyn noted in

response to Chairman St. Vil’s question at the October 8, 2025 Town Council meeting

regarding the reason a Stop Sign on a galvanized post in the Highlands area was taken, out

and sandwich a board stop sign was in place. Mayor Allyn stated he looked into the matter

and explained that the Stop Sign at Pennywise and Meeting House Lane was demolished as a

result of a car that went off the road. Therefore, he stated their Emergency Responders were

trained to pop up an A-frame sign that they could deploy from their trunk so they have

something in-place until a new Stop Sign could be installed.

Questions to the Mayor

Councilor Ryan noted the Property Revaluation, and he questioned whether there was any

data regarding the Commercial Values. Mayor Allyn stated that the Commercial and

Industrial Values were generally flat which made it more challenging for residential

properties. Mayor Allyn stated that Ledyard’s small Commercial and Industrial base was not

improving, noting that this has generally been the case since the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Councilor Barnes noted the resurfacing of Sandy Hollow Road; and he noted that he has run

that road at least 1,000 times. He stated although he does not run anymore because of back

surgeries that he was pleased that the road was being resurfaced for future generations who

like to bike ride and run. Thank you.

Councilor Brunelle stated she would take advice from herself and other people in the room,

and that she would will apologize to the Mayor if she was appropriate with him. She stated

that she did not mean to, noting that she gets emotional, but she did not mean to offend the

Mayor in any way, shape, or form. Mayor Allyn replied Thank you,

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

None.

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

Administration Committee

MOTION to recommend the Town Council appoint Mr. Nathaniel Woody (U) 770 Long Cove

Road, Gales Ferry as a Regular Member, to Planning & Zoning Commission for a three (3) term

ending October 31, 2028 filling a vacancy left by Mr. Craig.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Councilor Buhle stated the Town Council has received a number of emails and

feedback regarding the appointment of Mr. Woody. She stated although a couple of the emails

do not name her, that they specifically call out a comment that she made at a previous meeting

(Administration Committee Meeting March 12, 2025). She proceeded to provide some

background noting there was an Applicant for the Planning & Zoning Commission who was

presented to the Administration Committee. She stated at their March 12, 2025 meeting that she

and Councilor Brunelle did not move the Applicant forward. She stated her reason was because

she had seen that Applicant make bias comments in public settings about Zoning Applications

that were on-going. She stated her primary concerned was that if they forwarded an Applicant

who had already expressed a bias on a Pending Application, that their decisions may be

considered invalid, and it may become a problem. She stated because she was criticized, that

after the meeting she looked into the State Statutes regarding Planning & Zoning and Planning

Commissions, and she noted that Section 8-21 included a reasoning test of whether a personal

interest does not conflict; but whether it might be a conflict; and that it went on to show that

there were situations where people had been advocating against Zoning Applications, were

placed on boards and commissions, made decisions, and then those decisions were overturned

and appealed because it was proven that they were already biased. Therefore, she stated that was

where her decision came from and she wanted to explain for those who did not attend the Meet

the Candidates Event that was where some of the comments were coming from in the messages

the Town Council was receiving.

Councilor Buhle went on to state that today she reviewed 3.5 years of Planning & Zoning

Commission Minutes and did not see where Mr. Woody spoke once as a member of the public.

However, she noted that unfortunately the Town’s on-line Meeting Portal stopped at July,

2022; and therefore, she would have had to visit the Town Clerk’s Office to go back further to

view minutes from when Mr. Woody previously served on the Planning & Zoning Commission.

She stated that she understood the concerns that were being made, and that she would like to the

opportunity to continue to read the minutes and look back on prior commentary. She stated that

she thought that Mr. Woody was absolutely qualified to serve on the Planning & Zoning

Commission.

Chairman St. Vil stated it sounded like Mr. Woody was extremely qualified. He stated because

his focus has been elsewhere, he has not had the chance to look at Mr. Woody’s Application and

his background. Therefore, he stated that he did not know enough to vote this evening, noting

that there were some competing opinions. However, he stated that does not mean his fellow

Councilors do know enough about Mr. Woody and that they could proceed with vote.

Councilor Dombrowski stated that he has known Mr. Woody for many years, noting his previous

years of service on the Planning & Zoning Commission and his leadership as the Commission’s

Chairman. Councilor Dombrowski stated that he recognized the comments in the

correspondence that the Town Council received regarding Mr. Woody being in-favor of

Affordable Housing. He stated that he understood Councilor Buhle’s comments regarding a

previous Appointment Application, noting that he was not part of the Administration

Committee’s discussion that took place at their March 12, 2025 meeting. He stated when they

have an Appointment Application for a person who was going to be pre-dispositioned to a

decision, that was when they would be called into question on the zoning side of the house.

Councilor Dombrowski continued by stating that Mr. Woody help write the Zoning Regulations

the town currently had in place and that Mr. Woody recognizes that a Developer meets the

intent of the requirements of the Regulations, in every way, shape, and form; that the only

decision the person serving on the Planning & Zoning Commission had to make was whether or

not they meet the intent of the Zoning Regulations, stating their decision was not based on their

personal opinion. He stated as the Planning & Zoning Commission Chairman that he has seen

Mr. Woody work on the Commission and he has seen his voting record, noting that he has

always voted in accordance with the Zoning Regulations, as they stood at that time.

Councilor Dombrowski concluded his comments by stating that Mr. Woody was fully qualified

to move up from an Alternate Member to a Regular Member on the Planning and Zoning

Commission.

Councilor Brunelle stated that since Mr. Woody was a current Alternate Member on the

Planning & Zoning Commission then he was a trusted and viable person and should to be voted

to serve in that spot, noting that he has a history of running the Planning and Zoning

Commission. She stated even though she personally understands the comments received, and she

understands the worry about conflicting of interests, that she personally had no reason to doubt

that he would not make a good fit.

Councilor Ryan stated he had the experience of serving on the Planning and Zoning

Commission, both in New London, and in Ledyard under the Chairmanship of Mr. Woody. He

stated the Planning and Zoning was a Quasi-Legislative Commission, explaining that they make

Legislative Decisions following the Zoning Regulations. He stated it was equally important for

the Planning & Zoning Commission to follow process and procedure, just as it was here for the

Town Council. He stated it could get the town, and it has, into a lot of trouble. However, he

stated if they have somebody on the Commission that was competent and able to follow the

process and procedure that was gold. He noted as Councilor Dombrowski stated, that when they

look at making a determination on Planning and Zoning that there was very little room for

interpretation.

Councilor Ryan went on to note that he wanted to share a quick story, noting that when he

served on the on the New London Planning and Zoning Commissioner there was one

commission member that wanted to vote down an application because in his opinion the awning

was the wrong color. Councilor Ryan explained that they could not do that, but the reason he

wanted to share this story was because it was a great example where someone might disagree

with what was being presented in terms of the aesthetic and how it was presented, but if it fit

within the guidelines and the Zoning Regulations they do not have a choice. He stated that they

would have to approve the Application, otherwise they would invite legal liability and problems.

Councilor Ryan stated he looked at the Planning & Zoning Commission minutes and that he also

looked back at when the Administration Committee voted to recommend that Mr. Woody be

appointed as an Alternate Member to Planning & Zoning Commission and when the Town

Council voted on his appointment, noting that no one presented any issues with his appointment

at that time. He stated that he would expect Mr. Woody to following the Zoning Regulations as

well as the Plan of Conservation & Development (POCD) as he always has, noting that Mr.

Woody had the top billing in the current POCD. He stated if there was something they could

take away from this Town Council was that it was okay to have differing views. He stated just

because somebody here supports one viewpoint on a subject, that they were still held to follow

the letter of the law, noting that they had to follow the State Statutes, they had to follow the

Process, they had to follow the Procedure. He noted that personally Mr. Woody might have

different views on what he supports, but ultimately, he had to vote with what was in allowed in

the Zoning Regulations, even if he disagreed with it personally. Councilor Ryan stated that he

heard the concerns, noting that Mr. Woody would be one of five Regular Members on the

Commission, and therefore, he did not have any qualms with moving Mr. Woody from an

Alternate Member to a Regular Member on the Planning & Zoning Commission. He stated in

reviewing the Planning & Zoning Commission’s Roster that three members were from Gales

Ferry, noting a lot of the feedback the Town Council received today via email communications

regarding Mr. Woody were from Gales Ferry residents, and he noted that the Gales Ferry

residents were well represented on the Commission.

Councilor Barnes stated that Mr. Woody was the first candidate that was clearly experienced, for

which the Town Council received so much feedback. Therefore, he stated it was hard for him to

ascertain the validity of the feedback that was received just today, before tonight’s meeting;

noting that Mr. Schroeder in his classic fashion provided an articulate example of it. He stated

because he did not have enough time to evaluate the information received to vote this evening to

move Mr. Woody from an Alternate member to a Regular Member on the Planning & Zoning

Commission, whether there was a mechanism to postpone this Motion, not because he would

want to say “No”; but because he did not have enough information to say “Yes”. Councilor

Dombrowski explained because they had a Motion on the floor that they could “Table” the

Motion to the next meeting.

v MOTION to Table the

MOTION to appoint Mr. Nathaniel Woody (U) 770 Long Cove Road, Gales Ferry as a Regular

Member, to Planning & Zoning Commission for a three (3) term ending October 31, 2028 filling

a vacancy left by Mr. Craig.

Moved by Councilor Barnes, seconded by Councilor Buhle

VO- 5TEM:4otion Failed (Brunelle, Dombrowski, Parad, Ryan, Saccone not in favor)

Chairman St. Vil asked if there was any additional discussion on the Motion.

Councilor Buhle noted that she understands that the residents’ correspondence regarding Mr.

Woody was received within short notice of tonight’s meeting. She stated that the request to

move Mr. Woody from an Alternate Member to a Regular Member was an “Add On” 24-hours

prior to the Administration Committee’s October 8, 2025 Agenda. She stated had Mr. Woody’s

appointment been included with the initial posting of the Administration Committee’s October

8, 2025 meeting that she thought they would have seen similar feedback prior to the

Administration Committee’s meeting; and therefore, the feedback would have been provided

much sooner.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that Mr. Woody was currently serving as an Alternate Member

of the Planning & Zoning Commission; and therefore, she stated if a Regular Member was

absent from a meeting that Mr. Woody could vote on a Zoning Applications, for which residents

were saying he might have a conflict with. She stated by keeping Mr. Woody as an Alternate

Member that he could still vote on Zoning Applications in the future.

Councilor Parad stated that she voted “No” not to Table, because she thought based on the many

letters, testimony and endorsements they received that they had enough information to make a

decision this evening.

Vote on Main Motion

MOTION to appoint Mr. Nathaniel Woody (U) 770 Long Cove Road, Gales Ferry as a Regular

Member, to Planning & Zoning Commission for a three (3) term ending October 31, 2028 filling

a vacancy left by Mr. Craig.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, Barnes, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

VOTE: 6 -1 - 2 Approved and so declared (Barnes, not in favor; Buhle, St. Vil Abstained)

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, and Parad

AYE:

Barnes

NAY:

Buhle, and St. Vil

ABSTAIN:

MOTION to appoint Ms. Gillian Thorne ( R) 3 Adios Lane, Ledyard, to the Library

Commission to complete a two (2) year term ending November 7, 2027 filling a vacancy left by

Ms. Candler.

Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Councilor Dombrowski noted Mrs. Thorne’s education and background, noting that

she would be a good fit for the Library Commission.

Councilor Barnes stated that he has known Mrs. Thorne for many years. He stated that she was

very intelligent, and was an educator for many years. He stated that she was very qualified to

serve on the Library Commission and that the town was fortunate to have her.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, Town Council Liaison to the Library Commission, stated that Mrs.

Thorne had applied to serve on the Library Commission last year, noting that they had received

three Applications to fill one vacancy. She stated at that time the Administration Committee

moved Ms. Hellekson’s Application forward because she was a librarian. However, she stated

that the Administration Committee recognized that Mrs. Thorne was also very qualified and that

she should reapply should another vacancy on the Library Commission becomes available.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated she attended the Library Commission’s October 20, 2025

meeting, which was Ms. Candler’s last meeting, noting she had submitted her resignation on

October 14, 2025. However, she stated in providing reappointment recommendations that

Library Commission Chairman Bolduc reported that Mrs. Candler was not interested in

continuing to serve on the Commission when her term ended. She stated that the Library

Commission was caught by surprise that a candidate was already in process to be appointed to

fill Ms. Candler’s vacancy.

VOTE: 9 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Kevin Dombrowski

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

MOTION to appoint the following members to the Sustainable CT Ad Hoc Committee for a

two (2) year term ending December 15, 2027 in accordance with the structure provided in

Res#004-20/25/Jan 25 “Town of Ledyard Resolution Supporting Their Continued Participation

In The Sustainable CT Municipal Certification Program And Establishing A Sustainable CT Ad

Hoc Committee:

Mr. Michael Dreimiller (D) 37 Norman Drive, Gales Ferry (Economic Development

Commission)

Mr. Nathaniel Woody (U) 770 Long Cove Road, Gales Ferry (Planning & Zoning

Commission

Ms. Beth Ribe (U) 129 Rose Hill Road, Ledyard (Community -at-Large)

Councilor Carmen Garcia-Irizarry (D) 58 Eagle Ridge Drive, Gales Ferry Land

Use/Planning/Public Works Committee Member

Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Councilor Buhle stated on January 25, 2025 the Town Council approved the “Town

of Ledyard Resolution Supporting Their Continued Participation In The Sustainable CT

Municipal Certification Program And Establishing A Sustainable CT Ad Hoc Committee” to

continue the process to earn a Sustainable CT Certification. She stated that Ledyard was one of

the few towns in Southeastern Connecticut that was not Sustainable CT Certified. She suggested

residents visit the Sustainable CT website noting that they had the ability to filter categories such

as “Reduce expenses and save money for the town”. She also noted that the town could choose

goals that would make the town more affordable. She note that the Resolution called for

representatives as noted above and that they would need one more member from the

Community-at-Large. She noted that she was excited to see this Ad Hoc Committee get started.

VOTE: 8-0-1 Approved and so declared (Garcia-Irizary abstained)

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Kevin Dombrowski

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Ryan, Saccone, St. Vil, and Parad

Garcia-Irizarry

AYE:

ABSTAIN:

Finance Committee

MOTION to authorize the submission of a grant request to the State of Connecticut for the

removal of foam and cleaning of the foam system for Gales Ferry Engine 21.

Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Gales Ferry Fire Chief Jeff Erhart provided some background stating that the

existing Legacy Firefighting Foam has been found to have Per-and-Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

(PFAS) in the product. He stated that changes to State Laws and awareness in industry have

resulted in new “Clean Foams’’ becoming the industry standard. He explained that the State of

Connecticut has allocated funding to support Departments including the payment of hazardous

waste contractors to remove the old foam and clean the foam systems in the apparatus in order to

prevent and protect firefighters exposure and environmental exposure to PFAS. He explained

that once the Legacy Firefighting Foam was removed and the foam tank and water tank was

cleaned that they would put the approved “New Foam” into Engine 21. He stated that the foam

mixed with the water for petroleum based fires, such as car fires, etc.

Chief Erhart went on to explain that this was a Grant Reimbursement Program, and therefore,

the town would have to pay for the work up-front and once they submitted their paid invoices to

the State that they would receive the grant funding. He went on to explain that he obtained a

quote from one of the few Vendors (Croft) that do this type of work, however, he stated during

the Finance Committee’s November 5, 2025 meeting the Committee asked him to obtain three

quotes to be in keeping with Ordinance #200-001 “Purchasing Ordinance” because the dollar

threshold was over $5,000. Therefore, he stated that he was working to obtain additional quotes

noting that he has already received a second quote.

Councilor Ryan explained the original Motion at the Finance Committee included a request to

approve $7,425 for the work. However, he stated because Ordinance #200-001 “An Ordinance

for Purchasing” required the town to obtain three completive quotes for goods or services over

$5,000 they removed the dollar amount from this motion. He went on to explain that because the

Finance Committee did not want to hold up the submission of the Grant Application they moved

this motion forward.

Councilor Saccone stated when they put the Legacy Firefighting Foam in Engine 21 that it cost

about $300; noting that it was now going to cost $7,425 to get rid of it. He stated although they

would receive grant funding from the State for this work that these were the types of things that

were driving costs for the town.

VOTE: 9 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tim Ryan

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

MOTION to amend the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Standing Bid Waiver List to include the

following:

Freightliner/Alliance in East Hartford.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Councilor Barnes stated when the Town Council approved the initial Fiscal Year

2025/2026 Standing Bid Waiver List that he stated they should know what the annual spend was

for the vendors on the List. Therefore, he asked whether they knew what the town was spending

with Freightliner/Alliance annually.

Councilor Saccone stated that the Gales Ferry Fire Department has not used

Freightliner/Alliance for a few years. However, he stated they brought their Freightliner Tanker

to them because they specialized on these pieces of apparatus. However, he stated that he would

defer to Chief Erhart to provide more information.

Gales Ferry Fire Chief Jeff Erhart stated recently they started using Freightliner/Alliance again

noting that they spent just under $5,000 last year. He stated the reason they stopped using them

was because they were in Hartford and they would charge $90.00 an hour to have a driver bring

the trucks to Hartford; and back to Gales Ferry. However, he stated that the Gales Ferry Fire

Company’s solution to save the cost for the driver, was to have a member from the Gales Ferry

Fire Company drive the Truck to Hartford and then pick-up the truck when the work was

completed.

Chef Erhart went on to explain that they had used Freightliner/Alliance in the past for routine

maintenance and repairs to their fire apparatus; along with a few other service providers. He

stated that Freightliner/Alliance has been doing a lot of repair work on their aging tanker truck

and other aging pieces of apparatus. Therefore, he stated that Freightliner/Alliance has intimate

knowledge of the complexity of a couple of the Fire Company’s apparatus, noting that they were

custom made vehicles, which was a benefit to help troubleshoot problems quicker and more

efficiently especially with the Pump Pressure issue they have been plagued

with for years. He stated although he was asking that Freightliner/Alliance to be added to the

Standing Bid Waiver List that what he was trying to do was balance and leverage the best work

for the least amount of money. He stated they use Freightliner/Alliance, MES Safety Equipment

(Shipman’s) in Waterford, and Bull Dog who was already on the Standing Bid Waiver List. He

stated because the number of mechanics for fire service vehicles was limited that if he had a

larger list of vendors on the Standing Bid Waiver List that he could better leverage their options

for maintenance and repair work; and get there apparatus back in-service quicker.

Chief Erhart continued by explaining that that they have been using Freightliner/Alliance for

preventive maintenance of their aging fleet; however, he stated that routine checks, and annual

inspections cost on average a few thousand dollars; and with the addition of any repairs to be

Department of Transportation (DOT) Complaint, the cost often exceeds the $5,000 threshold

provided in Ordinance #200-001 “Purchasing Ordinance”; which would then require the Gales

Ferry Fire Company pause and keep the piece of apparatus out of service to seek the required

three quotes.

Councilor Buhle questioned whether the Gales Ferry Fire Company would be using

Freightliner/Alliance only for the Freightliner Tanker, or would they use them for other pieces of

apparatus. Chief Erhart stated that they had two Freightliner Trucks R-27 which was a Resuce

Truck and the Tanker. He went on to explain because Fire Departments were keeping their

Apparatus in their Fleets for more years that the wait for work was getting longer; therefore, he

stated by having more vendors on the Standing Bid Waiver List that it would provide them more

options to obtain services.

Councilor Saccone stated that the Chief was not going to bring all their vehicles to one vendor

noting that they would be splitting the costs amongst three vendors.

VOTE: 9 -0 Approved and so declared

MOTION to appropriate $8,000 to Account #20810201-50000-24207 (Cemetery Committee -

Grant Expense) to recognize the grant awarded by the State of Connecticut Office of Policy and

Management entitled “Neglected Cemetery Account Grant Program”.

Moved by Councilor Ryan, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, explained that at their February 12, 2025 meeting the Town

Council authorized the Town to submit a Neglected Cemetery Grant in the amount of $5,000

through the "Municipal Certification of Resolution ~2025 Office of Policy and Management

Neglected Cemetery Account Grant Program". He stated because the Office of Policy and

Management (OPM) did not receive a lot of Grant Applications the town was notified that they

would be receiving $8,000. He stated Cemetery Committee Chairman William Videll and Mr.

Vincent Godino prepared the Grant Application; which included their intended use of the Grant

Funding; and that they also provided a revised Plan to incorporate the additional $3,000. He

noted the Cemetery Committee’s Plan for the use of the funds included removing brush, fixing

broken gravestones, repairing fences, and a number of other maintenance items.

Mayor Allyn went on to explain with the receipt of the $8,000 Grant funding that this action was

to move to the funding to the Cemetery Committee Account so that they could start to do the

work. He stated the funding needed to be fully expended by May 18, 2026.

VOTE: 9 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tim Ryan

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

Transfer Town of Ledyard transfer town-owned property located at 19 Avery Hill Road

Extension “Kettle Hole” to Avalonia Land Conservancy.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Land Use Director/Town Planner Elizabeth Burdick, noted that Avalonia Land

Conservancy President Dennis Main was also present this evening via Zoom to answer questions.

Ms. Burdick proceeded by providing some background stating that the property located at 19 Avery

Hill Road Extension was 4.978 acres; known as the “Kettle Hole”, was donated to the Town of

Ledyard by Mr. Main’s parents. She stated that Avalonia Land Conservancy has requested that

Ledyard transfer 19 Avery Hill Road Extension to their Organization to be added to other Open

Space parcels they currently own and maintain

Ms. Burdick went on to note at their September 11, 2025 meeting the Planning& Zoning

Commission conducted an 8-24 Review and provided a Favorable Recommendation with some

conditions as noted in the Motion. She explained that a Planning & Zoning Commission Referral

was required prior to the transfer of any town-owned property, noting that in accordance with

changes to Connecticut General Statutes that this has already been done.

Ms.. Burdick stated that 19 Avery Hill Road Extension “Kettle Hole” was a good-size piece of

property. She explained that Avalonia Land Conservancy’s proposal was to take the Kettle Hole

property along with all the land in the grey crosshatched area; which was being donated by

DDJJM, LLC., to Avalonia, and combine them into one large open space piece. She pointed out

that there was a house within this area, which would remain as a private property.

Ms. Burdick reviewed the property maps that were attached to the Agenda on the meeting portal.

Ms. Burdick asked whether Avalonia Land Conservancy President Dennis Main would like to

also provide some comments.

Mr. Dennis Main Avalonia Land Conservancy President, attending remotely via Zoom,

explained that 19 Avery Hill Road Extension “Kettle Hole” was an exceptional geological

feature, noting that it was over 600 feet long and 60 feet deep; and a dry kettle hole. He stated

that Avalonia Land Conservancy has been looking to conserve the Kettle Hole for many years,

noting that it was a great habitat area with the moraine that goes down and back up. He stated

this major open space piece would go through the Pratt's property to the Glacial Park that was

Rod Leland's property before 1979. He stated although all of these properties were pretty much

connected, that Avalona Land Conservancy was working to acquire some additional lots from

surrounding properties.

Mr. Main went on to explain that there would be trail all along the front of the property; and that

Avalonia Land Conservancy would provide an easement to the town across the front of 175

Stoddards Wharf Road so that it would connect to the existing trail for passive recreation. He stated

that Avalonia Land Conservancy recently received approval from the Inland Wetland and Water

Courses to construct a raised trail structure on the only seepage area on this property, which at

the northeast corner, where it goes across to the Pfizer property. He stated that Avalonia Land

Conservancy was excited about it for passive recreation; and for the habitat protection.

Ms. Burdick noted that the trail would be on the inside of the guiderail. She also noted that this

request went before the Land Use Planning and Public Works Commission at their October 6,

2025 meeting; and that she reviewed all of these documents that they have seen online with the

LUPPW Committee, and they then forwarded this to the full Town Council.

VOTE: 9 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

AYE:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

Transfer town-owned property located at 13 Applewood Drive to Avalonia Land Conservancy.

Moved by Councilor Dombrwoski, seconded by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry

Discussion: Land Use Director/Town Planner Elizabeth Burdick provided some background

stating that Avalonia Land Conservancy has submitted a proposal to the Town requesting the

transfer 13 Applewood Drive to their Organization to be combined with their 272-acre “Pike

Marshall Preserve” which included 104 Gallup Hill Road, 104R Gallup Hill Road, 199 Lambtown

Road, 49 Pumpkin Hill Road, and 480 Pumpkin Hill Road. She stated 13 Applewood Drive was

a 1.7 acre open space lot that was part of the Applewood Subdivision Association.

Ms. Burdick went on to explain, as Councilor Dombrowski could attest, that there were some

small open space pieces in town that were part of “Conservation Subdivisions” and were owned

by Homeowners Associations. However, she stated the Homeowners Associations have asked

the town to take parcels because they were paying taxes on the property; which had to remain as

open space parcels.

Ms. Burdick stated at their September 11, 2025 meeting the Planning & Zoning Commission

conducted an 8-24 Review and provided a Favorable Recommendation with four Conditions, as

noted in the Motion above, explaining that prior to the transfer of any town-owned property it

had to go to the Planning and Zoning Commission for an 8-24 Referral.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Kevin Dombrowski

RESULT:

MOVER:

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

MOTION LEGAL NOTICE -TOWN OF LEDYARD- NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

-November 12, 2025 at 6:25 p.m. - Transfer town-owned property to Avalonia Land

Conservancy.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated in accordance with CGS 07-163e; a Public Hearing

was required to receive comments and recommendations regarding the transfer, sale, or lease of

town owned property.

Chairman St. Vil noted that this motion was just to set the Public Hearing date.

VOTE: 9 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

MOTION NOTICE OF SPECIAL TOWN MEETING - TOWN OF LEDYARD- NOVEMBER

12, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. - Transfer Town-Owned to Avalonia Land Conservancy.”..

10.

Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry

Discussion: Councilor Dombrowski stated in accordance with Chapter VII; Section 9 of the

Town Charter: “ Any resolution making a non-budgeted appropriation of more than one (1)

percent of the current tax levy, but less than five (5) percent for any purpose, any resolution

authorizing the issuance of bonds or notes or other borrowing of less than five (5) percent of the

current tax levy, except notes in anticipation of taxes to be paid within the fiscal year in which

issued, and any sale or purchase of real estate or interest therein shall become effective only

after it has been approved by the Town Council and adopted at a Town meeting by a majority

vote of the qualified voters present and voting at such meeting.” He noted that this motion was

to schedule the Special Town Meeting.

VOTE: 9- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Kevin Dombrowski

RESULT:

MOVER:

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

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"

11.

In addition, amend Ordinance #100-018 “Appendix A - Town of Ledyard Hunting Rules and

Regulations” to paragraph (5) as follows:

5) Hunting shall be limited to the following Town of Ledyard owned properties and open space

properties not owned by the Town of Ledyard, as recorded on the Deed of the Land Records or

with written consent of the property owner.

a) Clark Farm (1025 Colonel Ledyard Highway) (Town Owned

Property)

b) Founders Preserve Parcel (REMOVE 332 - CHANGE TO 334 Colonel Ledyard Highway

(Avalonia Land Conservancy)

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Dombrowski

Discussion: Councilor Dombroski 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 town-owned 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 (fka

-Paint Mill) Property located between Colonel Ledyard Highway and Pumpkin Hill Road on the

south end of town (both properties were about 100 acres). He stated this Program was a Lottery

System in which six people would win a lottery for each property to archery hunt; and that they

would be required to be qualified for archery (bow) hunting by the State to qualify for Ledyard’s

Program.

Councilor Dombrowski went on to explain that at a Special Town Meeting that was 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. 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 stated in accordance with Section 4. “Annual Expiration” the Ordinance

would expire (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. He went on to explain that this motion also included

Amending Appendix A: because there were some property boundary adjustments regarding the

properties located 332 & 334 Colonel Ledyard Highway that merged the two parcels. He stated the

new address for the merged property was 334 Colonel Ledyard Highway. Therefore, Appendix A

was being updated to reflect the correct number/address which was now 334 Colonel Ledyard

Highway. He also noted that annually extending the archery hunting for one-year was an

Administrative Action.

Councilor Barnes questioned whether the archery hunting on town-owned property would have any

impact on the town’s insurance. Mayor Allyn stated per State Statute, when they allow hunting for

no fee that the individuals that were hunting would incur the liability.

Councilor Buhle noted that the Tri-Town Trail passes through the Clark Farm property, therefore,

she questioned whether there was signage to alert hikers to wear bright colored clothing during

hunting season. Councilor Dombrowski stated that the Tri-Town Trail has signage to alert hikers

about the archery hunting on the property and to wear bright colored clothing.

VOTE: 9- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

Kevin Dombrowski

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

General Business

MOTION to override the Mayor's disapproval/veto dated October 16, 2025 and approved the

"An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics And Ethics Commission" as

approved by the Town Council at their October 8, 2025 meeting.

12.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded Councilor Garcia-Irizarry

Discussion: Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she would like to postpone this Motion to a

future meeting; date to be determined by the Town Council Chairman.

MOTION to Postpone the

MOTION to override the Mayor’s disapproval/veto dated October 16, 2025 and approved the

“An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics And Ethics Commission” as

approved by the Town Council at their October 8, 2025 meeting; o a future meeting; date to be

determined by the Town Council Chairman.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Chairman St. Vil stated the temperature and emotions were too high; and that they

have to do what was right for the town. He stated the polarizing rhetoric was clouding folks

judgement. He stated the reality was either you agreed with the Ordinance as written; or you

disagreed with it; or procedurally they did not do it the right way; and it should have gone to a

Public Hearing; or that this should have another read around.

Chairman St. Vil continued by stating that the “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard

Code of Ethics And Ethics Commission” does not violate any State Statute; and it does not

violate the Town Charter. He stated the Ordinance has gone to a Public Hearing and they have

received public comment. The Ordinance has gone to the Mayor; and the Mayor has vetoed the

Ordinance, and he provided his reasons for doing so. He stated the Mayor’s Department Heads

have provided input, noting that they have received input on the Ordinance from everyone. He

stated that he wanted to allow time for them to recognize that they could agree to disagree and to

then vote on it. However, he stated that this was an opportunity to do what was right. He stated if

members of the Town Council would like to bring forth an amendment; that he would ask that

they get the language of the amendment to Councilor Buhle for her to incorporate; and that they

would do it again. He stated that they would go back to a Public Hearing and then they would

vote on the Ordinance. He stated this was their opportunity to work together. He stated that he

did not invite Attorney Matt Ritter to tonight’s meeting noting that he was attending remotely via

Zoom for hours. He stated in his conversation with Attorney Ritter earlier this week that

Attorney Ritter stated that the Ordinance was close; and that he would work them to get them

there.

Chairman St. Vil proposed that the Town Council Table this for one week, and if there was a

way to modify the Ordinance that Councilors get feedback from their constituents and that write

up their amendments, and propose them to Councilor Buhle; noting that Councilor Buhle would

take them back to the Administration Committee. He stated the Town Council had

fourteen-days to either override the Mayor’s veto; or let the Mayor’s veto stand, and the

Ordinance would fail; or they could go to a Public Hearing with a new document. He stated they

could collectively lead.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated her Motion was to “Postpone”. Councilor Dombrowski

explained because they had a Motion on the floor that they could not “Postpone” noting that the

only Motion they could do was to “Table”. Chairman St. Vil stated to “Postpone” and to

“Table” were the same thing. Councilor Dombrowski stated that he agree that essentially do the

same thing; however, he stated “Table” was the proper terminology in this instance.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry agreed to restate the Motion as follows:

MOTION to Table the

MOTION to override the Mayor’s disapproval/veto dated October 16, 2025 and approved the

“An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics And Ethics Commission” as

approved by the Town Council at their October 8, 2025 meeting; o a future meeting; date to be

determined by the Town Council Chairman.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Buhle

VOTE: 9 - 0 Approved and so declared To TABLE

TABLED

RESULT:

Jessica Buhle

MOVER:

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

SECONDER:

Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Ryan, Saccone, St.

Vil, and Parad

AYE:

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Buhle, moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Brunelle

VOTE:

9 - 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.

_____________________________________

Transcribed by Roxanne M. Maher

Administrative Assistant to the Town Council

I, Gary St. Vil , 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 22, 2025.

____________________________________

Gary St. Vil, 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.