741 Colonel Ledyard Highway  
Ledyard, Connecticut 06339-1551  
(860) 464-3203  
TOWN OF LEDYARD  
Town Council  
council@ledyardct.org  
Meeting Minutes  
Chairman S. Naomi  
Rodriguez  
Regular Meeting  
Wednesday, June 11, 2025  
7:00 PM  
Town Hall Council Chambers  
In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex  
Remote: Information noted below:  
Join Zoom Meeting from your Computer, Smart Phone or Tablet:  
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87357670053?pwd=an50JgqiBIq4R7qBalh6Wl9YwQmH0d.1  
Audio Only: Telephone: +1 646 558 8656; Meeting ID: 873 5767 0053; Passcode: 832043  
I.  
CALL TO ORDER  
Chairman Rodriguez called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers, Town  
Hall Annex Building.  
Chairman Rodriguez welcomed all to the Hybrid Meeting. She stated for the members of  
the Town Council and the Public who were participating via video conference that the  
remote meeting information was available on the Agenda that was posted on the Town’s  
Website - Granicus-Legistar Meeting Portal.  
II.  
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  
ROLL CALL  
III.  
Councilor William Barnes  
Councilor April Brunelle  
Councilor Jessica Buhle  
Present:  
Councilor Kevin Dombrowski  
Councilor Carmen Garcia-Irizarry  
Chairperson S. Naomi Rodriguez  
Councilor Tony Saccone  
Councilor Gary St. Vil  
Councilor Tim Ryan  
Excused:  
IV.  
PRESENTATIONS  
None  
V.  
RESIDENT & PROPERTY OWNERS (COMMENTS LIMITED TO THREE (3)  
MINUTES  
Mr. Whit Irwin, 2 Winfield Way, Ledyard, stated that he was present this evening to tell the  
Town Council that he voted “No” on the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget at both the May 20,  
2025 Referendum and at the second Referendum on June 10, 2025 noting that inflation in  
2022 was 8%; in 2023 it was 3.3%; in 2024 it was 2.95%. He stated after the May 20, 2025  
Budget Referendum failed the Finance Committee came up with a plan at their May 21, 2025  
meeting. However, he stated the Town Council at their May 26, 2025 meeting threw out the  
Finance Committee’s recommendations and added more cuts that were frankly disgusting.  
He stated the Town Council did not address the Board of Education, which was larger side of  
the budget. He stated instead the Town Council went after the salaries of a few town  
employees that moved the needle less than five one hundredths of one percent of the budget,  
noting that it amounted to a penny. Therefore, he stated the budget the Town Council  
presented at the Second Referendum was garbage; and that he voted against the budget for a  
second time; noting that the Town Council should be ashamed. He noted that Waterford,  
Bozrah, Sprague, Colchester, Preston, Griswold, East Lyme, Salem, Groton, Baltic, Franklin,  
Lyme, North Stonington, and Lisbon all held line on tax increases. He stated every one of  
these towns have a mil rate that was lower than Ledyard’s mil rate. He stated Ledyard’s  
residents were getting squeezed noting consumer prices across the board. He noted State  
Senator Cathy Osten championed a Bill in Hartford that stripped away $600,000+ in tax  
revenues that the Town has been collecting from the commercial businesses operating at the  
Mashantucket Pequot Foxwoods Resort and Casino. He stated the loss of $600,000+ in tax  
revenue from these commercial business was almost 1% every year, and that the taxpayers  
would have to make up for that loss in tax revenue. He stated instead of addressing the larger  
side of the house; the Board of Education, that the Town Council went after 0.05 of 1% on  
the General Government side of the budget; and now they want to raise their taxes.  
Mr. Irwin continued by addressing the property revaluation that would take effect next year.  
He stated during the last five-years the median home price in Connecticut went up 45%.;  
which means that their homes were going to be worth more; therefore, residents would be  
taxed more based on the increased value of their property. He stated even if the town lowered  
the mil rate that resident’s tax bills were still going to go up, noting that the lower mil rate  
would not offset the increase in the value of their homes.  
Chairman Rodriguez noted that Mr. Irwin’s three minutes were up; and she thanked him for  
his comments.  
Dr. Adrienne Parad, 5 Birch Street, Ledyard, noted that she submitted comments ahead of  
time, so they were on the record. She addressed Mayor Allyn, III, and the Town Council  
reading her June 11, 2025 email as follows:  
I would not advocate for an improved budget, but to champion a vison, one that  
prioritizes the needs of the majority, not just the desires of a few.  
A budget is not just a collection of numbers; it is a reflection of our town’s values, our  
priorities, and our commitment to each other. We all recognize that resources are  
limited, and difficult choices must be made. But when we revise our budget, let us ask  
not, “What do people want?” but rather, “What do people truly need?”  
As a physician, I often have difficult discussions with patients and colleagues about  
noting the differences between wants and needs. Just because one person may want a  
full body MRI, they likely do not need to have that. They do, however, need to follow  
evidence-based guidelines on screening for and treating any diseases. I can’t be  
focused on Press-Ganey reviews when making tough medical decisions, and I have to  
focus on doing the right thing. In my profession, it is very difficult to simultaneously  
do the right thing and make everyone happy. It is not possible, so I choose to focus on  
making meaningful and actionable plans even if it doesn’t necessarily make everyone  
happy. If I focused on my image and how people think of me all of the time, I  
wouldn’t be able to make tough decisions and do the right thing.  
So, what do we NEED? We need safe roads and reliable infrastructure. We need  
strong schools that prepare our children for the future. We need emergency services  
that protect us, social programs that uplift us, and economic initiatives that create  
opportunity-not just for today, but for the generations that will follow.  
Of course, compromise is inevitable. No budget will satisfy every individual  
preference. But what matters is ensuring that we invest in the greatest good-the  
foundational services and initiatives that affect the majority of our town’s residents.  
This means resisting pressure from loud voices advocating for pet projects that benefit  
a few at the expense of the many. It means making decisions based on necessity,  
impact, and long-term sustainability.  
In my opinion, I would like to see the budget originally proposed by the Board of  
Education, with the adjustment of revenue, to be fully reinstated. Our school district  
is egregiously underfunded, and we need to slowly try to remediate all of our  
deficiencies now, and focus on growth in the years to come. I also would like to see a  
compromise on the raises to the Town employees to show them that we value them,  
while not also burdening our residents with a large tax increase to pay for it.  
Additionally, I am a strong believer in environmental stewardship, and would like to  
see the town composting program to stay intact.  
I urge you-our leaders-to craft a budget that stands for fairness, responsibility, and  
the collective well-being of this town. A budget that may not satisfy every want, but  
one that meets the essential needs of our community. Because when we prioritize  
wisely, we don’t just balance the numbers-we build a stronger, more equitable future  
for all.  
Thank you.  
Mr. Jeff Eilenberger, 2 Village Drive, Ledyard, stated he was present this evening to defend  
the hacking of Finance Director Matthew Bonin’s salary in the Fiscal Year 2025/2026  
Budget. He stated for those who do not know Mr. Bonin or know what he has done for this  
town that he would tell them that since Mr. Bonin joined the Town Hall Staff around 2022  
that he worked with the banks to obtain higher interest earnings on the funds the town has in  
their Capital Reserve Accounts. He stated that these funds were designated for future capital  
investments and were sitting idle in the bank. However, he stated because of Mr. Bonin’s  
work the Town’s Capital Account earned $43,000 in 2022 (for a partial year) which was  
.74% of the town’s revenue for that year, and saved taxpayers money. He went on to note  
that in 2023 the interest earnings was $576,000; in 2024 the interest earnings was  
$1,010,000, and to date for 2025 interest earnings was $623,000. Mr. Eilenberger stated that  
Mr. Bonin has saved Ledyard’s taxpayers more than $1.5 million by the revenue that has  
been received through the interest earnings on money that had been previously sitting  
stagnate in the town’s bank accounts. He stated that he understands that a salary increase of  
over 10% seemed like a lot. However, he stated that he believed that by explaining to  
residents the amount of revenue Mr. Bonin has brought into the town; his education and  
background, and the need to bring the Finance Director’s salary in-line with the market rate  
for the position that residents would understand. Mr. Eilenberger went on to state at their  
May 21, 2025 meeting the Finance Committee spent hours working on the Fiscal Year  
2025/2026 Budget. He stated that both Councilor Buhle and Saccone signed off on budget.  
However, he stated Councilor Buhle basically lied at the Finance Committee Meeting rather  
than say what she was going to do with the salaries. Thank you.  
Ms. Wendy Hellekson, 14-L Lakeside Drive, Ledyard, stated that while she was many  
things in this town, that tonight she was speaking as a private citizen to speak about truth.  
She stated that every morning during her school day she was reminded about what makes  
this town special. She stated that every person that she encounters was kind, helpful, and  
generous. Therefore, she stated that was the reason the recent budget vote was confusing and  
disappointing. She stated out of the roughly 1,100 eligible voters, only about 700 voted  
against moving the budget forward, noting that this was not the mandate that some may  
claim. She stated what they were hearing from the voters was the result of a campaign that  
was driven by lies and fear. She stated when they live in a time when some say that there was  
no more truth, noting that too, was misinformation. She stated the truth was that the town  
started the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget preparation with a $2.4 million dollars shortfall.  
The truth was that 700 people voted based on fears and that should not dictate the future of  
the town’s 15,000 residents.  
Ms. Hellekson went on to state that she would also like to tell them that Google was not  
where they could always go to get the truth. She stated that Google was a filing cabinet with  
the most used documents at the front, noting that it did not matter if the documents were  
right or wrong, noting that they were just the documents that were looked at the most. She  
stated that the truth lied in the investigation and verification of information in Ledyard, and  
like many places, has been assaulted by false information. She stated that anyone could say  
anything on the Internet. Therefore, she asked that they please be aware of what they were  
reading and reposting on social media. Thank you.  
Mr. Steve Munger, 12 Nutmeg Drive, Gales Ferry, noted that he would begin his comments  
this evening the way he has started his comments every time he has addressed the Town  
Council. He stated that he appreciate everybody on the Town Council for their dedication to  
the town even though he disagreed with about 90% of what they do, as he has repeatedly said  
at prior meetings. He proceeded to address the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget; and he noted  
as others have said, it was tough on both sides (General Government and Board of  
Education). He stated that he no longer had kids or grandkids in the school system. However,  
he stated that he loves kids which was why he fought to allow Ledyard kids, who were  
attending other schools to play sports in town, noting that it was his understanding that it has  
not gone through yet. However, he stated if he happens to get back on the Board of  
Education that he would again fight for that because it was for all the kids in town. He stated  
that he did not prepare any comments because he did not plan to speak tonight. However, he  
stated in looking at Chairman Rodriguez he thought he better say something otherwise she  
would be disappointed.  
Mr. Munger continued by addressing comments provided by other residents this evening. He  
stated that they were not all doctors, nurses, or engineers that work at Electric Boat and earn  
six-digit salaries every year. He stated for those families it was fantastic; however, he stated  
there were a lot of people who might not earn half that. Therefore, he stated for some to say  
they should pass the budget because they could afford it, that they were being selfish;  
because they have to consider everybody in town. He stated in September, 1996 when he  
bought his house in Ledyard that he did not think many people were that well off; however,  
he stated that he may have been wrong because from what he was hearing, Ledyard must be  
upper middle class, noting that everybody was saying “We need more money for this, and we  
need more money for that”. He stated that he heard residents say that more money for the  
schools would mean a better education. He stated if more money meant better schools and  
better graduation rates then the inner-city schools would have the best education and the  
highest graduation rates, because they get extra money. Therefore, he stated that he did not  
think that more money was the issue, noting that Ledyard has great teachers, and great  
schools. He stated that they have to take care of everybody, noting that the budget was  
supported by everybody’s money. Therefore, he asked when the Town Council makes their  
final decision on the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget that they consider everybody, not only  
the people that were screaming “No or Yes” ; but that they think about everybody in the  
middle.  
Mr. Munger addressed the comments about misinformation, noting that some have said  
“Don’t believe this; or don’t believe that”; noting that people were going to believe what  
they want to believe. He stated that he believed that they need to make sure they have the  
right budget for everybody, not just for those who were well off, but also for people who  
were in the middle; and in the lower income area, noting that should be their number one  
concern. He stated that the did not care whether the members of the Town Council were  
Republican Democrat, or Independent, that they have to take care of the whole entire Town.  
Mr. Earl (Ty) Lamb, 95 Lambtown Road, Ledyard, addressed the Town Council’s May 27,  
2025 meeting in which they worked to make budget adjustments to submit to the Second  
Referendum on June 10, 2025. He specifically noted the reductions to the some of the  
General Government’s Administrators/Department Head salaries, stating that he thought  
their action was a political game. He questioned whether any member of the Town Council  
knew how the General Government would work without the Mayor and their key  
Administrators /Department Head Staff. Thank you.  
Mr. Edwin Murray, 26 Devonshire Drive, Gales Ferry, noted at the Town Council’s May  
27, 2025 meeting they came up with the adjusted budget, after a lot of discussion and  
compromise. He stated the reason he attended the meeting was because he wanted to hear  
what the Town Council was going to do for the folks who have told them that they did not  
agree with what they say. He stated that they may not have all the information, noting that  
some folks heard the wrong information. He stated that he has lived in Ledyard for two-years  
and that it was his perspective that the Annual Budget Process was this thing that just  
happened and that 400 to 500 people showed up and voted on the budget, noting that he  
wondered whether they were the same 400-500 people every year. He stated the point that  
he was making was that in past years that if about 200 voters said “Yes” the town got their  
budget. Therefore, he questioned those who have said that the 700 people that voted “No” at  
this year’s Second Budget Referendum was not a mandate, when they were looking at the  
whole population of the town. However, he stated 700 “No” votes was really the people’s  
frustration, because this year, for some reason, they decided to let people know. He stated  
right now a lot of people did not know everything , but the point was that more people came  
out. Therefore, he stated out of the 1,100 people who showed up at the polls that 700 people  
voted “No”; noting that in past years that out of the 400 - 500 people who showed up at the  
polls that maybe 200 people voted “No”. He stated the difference was not only did 1,300  
people showed up for the First Referendum that was held on May 20, 2025, but that 1,100  
came back for the Second Referendum yesterday on June 10, 2025 to tell them what they  
thought; and he noted that the Town Council needed to take notice of that participation.  
Therefore, he stated that the Town Council needed to ask themselves some questions and get  
some answers for the next budget. He stated the earlier they can hear what people think about  
the Budget the better. Thank you,  
Mr. Matthew Bonin, Finance Director, stated that he would like to speak to the Town  
Council this evening. Chairman Rodriguez stated that Mr. Bonin could address the Town  
Council. Mr. Bonin noted that he sent an email to the Town Council. He stated although he  
did not receive an response that he assumed they read it, but that he was not sure if they did.  
He stated he had a few comments regarding the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Special  
Meeting. He stated that he has never felt more unappreciative than he did at that meeting. He  
stated the message he heard loud and clear was that members of the Town Council do not  
value what the General Government Administrators/Department Heads do for the Town. He  
stated the fact that none of the Town Councilors who were championing the salary cuts could  
look him or Town Clerk Patricia Riley in the eye when they brought forth the Motion was  
very telling. He stated that the entire process of un-doing the long overdue salary survey was  
pre-orchestrated. He stated that he would like to clarify a glaring error in Councilor St. Vil’s  
Motion, noting that the Motion was presented in response to the Budget Advisory Questions;  
however, Mr. Bonin stated that the problem was that the budget failed. He noted that  
Councilor St. Vil claimed that he was pushing for 4% raises for the  
Administrators/Department Heads, but that was not true. Mr. Bonin stated that Land Use  
Director/Town Planner Elizabeth Burdick was hired at a salary of $105,220 annually and that  
the information that was provided in the proposed budget reflected a 3% raise to get to the  
total of $108,150. Yet Councilor St. Vil proposed reducing that salary line to $102,066,  
resulting in a pay cut of $2,934; stating that they were reducing her salary to less than what  
she was making now, which was a pay cut.  
Mr. Bonin continued by addressing Councilor Brunelle’s comment regarding why employees  
were paid more than others could not have been more disingenuous and insulting to all of the  
Town’s Administrators/Department Heads. He stated that Councilor Brunelle’s comment,  
was “The pay is probably appropriate to what the Education and skill level is.” Mr. Bonin  
said seriously education and skill level. He stated that he has BS in Accounting, and he is a  
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), which was one of the hardest professional certifications  
to acquire, of which Councilor Brunelle clearly knows nothing about what any of their  
education and skill sets were. Mr. Bonin stated in talking about pay disparity, for comparison  
purposes, that he would note that the salary of his counterpart at the Board of Education was  
$155,250 a year, noting that his annual salary is $111,459. He noted that his Board of  
Education counterpart was being paid almost $44,000 more per year than he was being paid,  
that was a difference of $850 a week, noting that he would remind the Town Council that he  
is a CPA; while his Board of Education counterpart is not a CPA. Mr. Bonin stated that  
based on Councilor Brunelle’s statement that it would seem as though he should be making  
north of $155,000. He stated the Finance Director’s salary that was requested in the Fiscal  
Year Budget was not even close to that. He stated that he found it ironic that there was no  
discussion whatsoever on Board of Education’s salary increases, noting that although  
Councilor Ryan tried it fell on deaf ears.  
Mr. Bonin went on to note Councilor Garcia-Irizarry’s pre-orchestrated comments in which  
she referenced Colchester as a comparison; and he questioned whether any members of the  
Town Council knew the history of the Finance Director position in Colchester.  
Chairman Rodriguez thanked Mr. Bonin for his comments noting that his three-minutes was  
up.  
Ms. Rebecca Watford, 429 Colonel Ledyard Highway, Ledyard, stated as a low- income  
family that she has seen how one bad vote could turn low-income families in town to being  
homeless. She stated that they were now homeowners and that a tax increase could very well  
tip that scale, to make her family homeless again. She went on to address the Board of  
Education, noting that she did not have much faith in the Ledyard School District. She stated  
that she had two autistic children in the Ledyard Public Schools, and that they absolutely  
failed; therefore, she has chosen to homeschool her children, and she pays for all the  
curriculum they need. She also noted the large population of Ledyard residents that were  
pulling their children from the Ledyard Public Schools and were also homeschooling their  
children. She stated the homeschooled children do not get invited to play sports in this town,  
and that their children cannot take part in any activities in this town. She stated as taxpayers  
on a low-income they have to question how a tax increase fits into their household budget.  
She stated that she wanted the town to know that a vote to increase taxes could make these  
homeowners who were living on a very low-income, to become a homeless population in  
Ledyard. She questioned with no low-income housing in town where these families could go,  
noting that these low-income residents would be pushed to leave the town the town they  
loved so much. Thank you.  
Mr. Mike Cherry, 5 Whippoorwill Drive, Gales Ferry, stated that he and his wife Mary have  
lived in town for about 40 years. He stated that this was probably the first year that he voted  
against the budget. He stated during the budget process that most years he has talked with the  
School Superintendent and that he has asked how they could do more for the schools. He  
stated this year they did do more for the schools to the tune of about seven (7) full-time  
positions noting that there was a reason for those positions. He stated that he was not an  
educator, and he did not know what the requirements were, but that he trusted the Board of  
Education, the Superintendent, and the staff to know what those needs were.  
Mr. Cherry went on to state in reviewing the numbers that were presented at the Second  
Referendum on June 10, 2025 that the General Government budget increased by $742,429.  
He stated in looking at the Healthcare Expenses, which has been a subject of discussion  
throughout this budget process, that the Board of Education Employees Healthcare increased  
by $875,960. He stated if you take that almost $1 million off of the General Government’s  
proposed $29,901,179 Budget that the General Government was less than their current year’s  
budget to support the town’s operation and services to residents, noting there was nothing to  
cut without impacting services. He stated that they could cut bulky waste pick-up but that  
would make the town look bad, noting that they had been there before. He stated that they  
could eliminate one of the library buildings; which was discussed in previous years, and it  
was decided that it was not a good idea. Therefore, he stated that there was no place to cut in  
the General Government side of the budget. He stated while he understands the constraints,  
and he understands how people feel, noting that the town paid to educate his two children  
and the majority of that came from other people, who paid their taxes; that it was now his  
turn. Thank you.  
State Senator Cathy Osten, asked Chairman Rodriguez if she could speak during public  
comment. Chairman Rodriguez stated “Yes”. Senator Osten stated that she wanted to correct  
the record regarding the Dual Taxation Bill that has been talked about this evening. She  
explained that the Dual Taxation Bill passed the General Assembly today; and as a result  
Ledyard would receive $800,000, which was more than the amount they were receiving  
right now; and it was more than what the town would receive next year after the Property  
Revaluation has been completed. She stated with the current Property Revaluation that there  
would be a decrease in commercial property; and an increase in residential property. She  
stated the State has included that $800,000 for Ledyard through the year 2027. However, she  
stated that some people were saying “Well, we can't trust the State.” She stated that since she  
has been a State Senator, that she has brought in more than $1.2 million in grants that were  
directly reflective of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation; and an increase in PILOT  
Funding (Payment in Lieu of Taxes); and an increase in Pequot Fund, that has been  
incorporated in this year’s State Budget, noting that it has been incorporated in every State  
Budget for the last five (5) years, stating that there has never been a decision to decrease  
those dollars. She stated in addition; the State has put into their budget that they would  
maintain Hold Harmless for the Schools. She stated for Ledyard this was a lot of money  
noting that it was $13,000 in year-one; and $26,000 in year-two. She also stated that there  
was also additional special education money that for Fiscal Year 2025, noting for the current  
year Ledyard received $192,000 that they were not expecting to receive and that these funds  
helped out with special education costs. Senator Osten stated in addition to that, there was  
the same dollar amount in both year-one and year-two, with an increase for Special  
Education. She noted the State has $181 million dollars in year-one and year-two which was  
increased by $40 million dollars. In addition to that, she stated that the State put $30 million  
dollars in the Budget for Seed Money, noting according to the Office of Fiscal Analysis  
(OFA), Ledyard would receive $173,000.  
Senator Osten concluded by stating that every year she works to make sure that she brings  
more dollars back to this town, and that she would continue to protect those dollars as she  
has done every year, noting that she had a proven track record of that. Thank you.  
Ms. Joanne Kelley, 12 Thames View Pentway, Gales Ferry, stated that she wanted to correct  
the record on a lot of the inflammatory rhetoric that has been going around; and she wanted  
to correct statements made by Mr. Bonin and Councilor Ryan, who she was sorry was not  
present this evening.  
Ms. Kelley noted at the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Meeting that Councilor Ryan stated  
that he was reading from a Report that stated the Board of Education had salary increases in  
the amounts of 10%; 26% and 36%. She stated that it was all made up, noting that those  
percentage increases had nothing to do with salaries, and as she has stated there has been a  
lot of inflammatory rhetoric going around town. She stated that she gets it, noting that it was  
an election year; and that it was an attempt to pit residents against each other; and  
particularly against the Board of Education, and it was successful. She stated the Budget  
Referendum failed twice, noting that there was a lot of information put out without context,  
that led people to make incorrect assumptions about what the mil rate increase would mean  
to them. She stated that she tried to correct a lot of that as she could, but it was like playing  
whack-a-mole.  
Ms. Kelley continued by stating that she was not going to stand here and beg the Town  
Council to listen to the results of the Budget Advisory Questions and to restore the $160,000  
to the Board of Education’s Operating Budget, noting that more people asked that the Board  
of Education Budget not be cut, commenting that it was bad enough that 80% of the  
approved Capital Plan that was presented had been chopped away. She stated that the  
original Capital Plan that the Board of Education approved was $569,000; and that only  
$114,000 was left. She stated in reality, what that does was just kick the can down the road,  
which will wind up costing taxpayers more in the long run, and that she thought it was  
important for people to know that. She stated that they all know what happens when they  
defer maintenance on our homes, noting that it may be necessary at times, but that it was  
never cost effective.  
Ms. Kelley went on to state that she wanted to talk a little bit about last year's Board of  
Education Budget, noting that they attempted to cut roughly $300,000 from the budget that  
was related to two very important positions. She noted one position was for the one full-time  
Multi-Tiered Support Systems (MTSS) Coordinator to oversee the literacy and numeric  
numeracy intervention team that they had slowly, laboriously, and incrementally funded  
over the previous eight-years, with the very spare budget increases because Ledyard was  
sorely lacking in these skilled specialists who assess plans and provides support for students.  
Chairman Rodriguez thanked Ms. Kelley for her comments noting that her three-minutes  
was up.  
Ms. Elizabeth Burdick, Land Use Director/Town Planner, noting that she was not a Ledyard  
Resident, but was a member of the Town’s Staff. She stated after the Town Council’s May  
27, 2025 meeting that she received a copy of the Post Meeting Action Letter, which showed  
that her salary had been cut. She stated that she sent a letter to Councilor St. Vil because he  
made the Motion. She stated although she did not receive a response to her letter that she  
hoped all the members of the Town Council read her letter noting that it was posted to the  
Correspondence List for tonight’s meeting.  
Ms. Burdick continued by stating her comments would be brief noting that the Town of  
Ledyard Staff were some of the hardest working, most qualified, and most pleasant people  
she has had the privilege to work with in municipal government. She stated any of the staff  
members whose salaries were cut and those who were not cut, would go out of their way to  
help any resident that asked for their assistance, and they should be paid at least the  
mid-range market rate salaries for high-rate service they provide to the public. She stated that  
she felt that none of them deserved to be blindsided, or to have their salaries cut. She stated  
that she watched the video of the meeting and that she was disappointed that one Councilor  
said that the Board of Education Staff should be paid more because of their education and  
skill level. She stated that she would invite any Board of Education Department Head to  
walk into Town Hall and perform the duties of any Town Hall Department Heads; and  
vice-versa, noting that she does not know anything about running school. She stated that they  
were all skilled in their respective jobs. She stated that she confirmed that there were no cuts  
to the Board of Education salaries that she was aware of; and she asked that the Town  
Council correct her if she was wrong. She stated that she started working in Ledyard in 2018  
and after three-years she relocated out of state. She stated that she came back to Connecticut  
because her parents were ill, and when she had the opportunity to come back to Ledyard that  
she was thrilled because she loved working in Ledyard during the three-years she had  
previously spent here. She stated even though there was no complaints about her and that she  
did great work in the just over 3-years she had spent in Ledyard, that she was not given a  
warm welcome by the residents of this town when she returned. She stated in fact, that she  
has been treated by the residents of this town worse than in any town that she has ever  
worked in, despite the fact that she was the Ledyard Town Planner before, simply because  
she was not the previous Town Planner. Therefore, she stated having her salary reduced felt a  
little personal; noting that not only did the Town Council not give her a cost-of-living  
increase, that they actually cut her salary current salary by $3,000, noting that she just wanted  
to say that for the record. Thank you for listening.  
Ms. Caitlyn Greco, 9 Stone Court, Gales Ferry, attending remotely via Zoom, stated that she  
and her husband were raising three boys that were attending Ledyard Public Schools. She  
stated that she has a background in finance, technology, and education. She stated after  
extensively reviewing the Board of Education Budget that she voted “No”. She stated the  
reason she was present this evening was because she attended the Board of Education’s June  
10, 2025 meeting and after only partially providing her comments regarding her reasons for  
voting “No” on the budget; that she was cut-off, and the Board of Education told her to tell  
the Town Council her reasons instead  
Ms. Greco continued by stating that she was extremely disappointed in the Budget, as well as  
some of our Elected Official’s insistence in misleading residents about the budget on social  
media and she noted the following:  
· Funding Residency Verification - Ms. Greco stated if the quality of Ledyard’s education  
was suffering so much over money, why the School Administration was asking for additional  
funding for Residency Verification, stating that non-Ledyard Residents prefers Ledyard’s  
Schools to the ones in their town.  
· STEM Elementary Teachers - Ms  
VI.  
COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS  
None.  
VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS  
Councilor Barns stated that the Town Council has some serious things to talk about this  
evening. However, he stated that first he would like to talk about two really great things in  
town.  
· Ledyard Farmers’ Market - Councilor Barnes stated this evening he could not find a  
parking spot at the Farmers Market, noting that once he was able to get his dinner that he had  
to eat a little quicker than he planned. He stated that the Ledyard’s Farmers’ Market was  
amazing. He went on to note that his family has talked about how much they missed the  
Ledyard Fair, noting that it was a really great weekend that they looked forward to each year.  
He stated that there were a lot of people in this room who either partake or volunteer to make  
the Ledyard Farmers’ Market happen each week during the summer and he thanked everyone  
for their participation and support.  
· Community - Councilor Barnes stated that he was in awe this evening noting that the  
Council Chambers was full because a lot of people love this town. He stated that he was not  
elected to serve on the Town Council, explaining that Mr. Gary Paul, who spoke during  
Citizens Comments this evening, decided that he could have his spot on the Town Council;  
and that he very much appreciated having the opportunity to serve Ledyard, because he loves  
this town.  
Councilor Barnes went on to state when they talk about a political party, that he liked to  
think of his Party as Ledyard. However, he stated when residents would say what about  
Gales Ferry, that former Town Council Chairman Linda Davis said it best, noting that she  
would say: “Gales Ferry is the Capital of Ledyard”. Therefore, he stated that he did not care  
which party they were, or which side of the town they live on, that they need to do, what they  
need to do for the town. He thanked all those here tonight regardless of their perspective, and  
he stated that he was glad to be in a town where people cared enough to come out and speak.  
Thank you.  
Councilor Brunelle thanked the residents for coming, whether we agree or we do not. She  
was so glad that everybody came out today and online to speak their minds, noting that it  
was important.  
Councilor Saccone stated that he would reiterate the comments that he appreciated  
everybody coming out to participate in this budget process. He stated at every Finance  
Committee he begged residents to attend the Finance Committee meetings to see what the  
Town was being faced with; which was a steep increase, because before they even began to  
look at projected expenses for the coming year, that they were dealing with a $2.5 million  
loss in revenues. He stated it was a lot of hard work to minimize the impact for their  
residents, explaining that they used some funding from the Mil Rate Stabilization Fund  
(Rainy Day Fund), noting that he would talk more about the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget  
which was voted down at the Second Referendum yesterday (June 10, 2025). He stated all  
the Finance Committee Members did everything they could to keep the mil rate increase to a  
minimum; noting the many State Unfunded Mandates, and skyrocketing inflation, however,  
he stated that any increase was not good. He stated based on the current budget and projected  
mil rate that a home with an average assessed value of $200,000 would see about a $31  
increase a month. He thanked the residents for their comments.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she would like to make a statement regarding the May  
27, 2025 Special Town Council Meeting and the emails sent by the Mayor and Finance  
Director Mr. Bonin to the Town Council; as well as the email that Land Use Director/Town  
Planner Ms. Burdick’s email to Councilor St. Vil.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated as Town Councilors, they were the stewards of the  
taxpayers’ money. They try to find a balance between compensating the town’s employees  
fairly and their duty to the taxpayers. Six out of the nine Town Councilors were serving for  
the first time. Many of them were not aware of the Resolution Establishing Administrators  
/Department Head Benefits that passed in 2023 regarding the Department  
Heads/Administrator’s salaries. That Resolution was passed by the 26th Town Council.  
That being said, it was their duty to be familiar with all the Town’s Ordinances and  
Resolutions.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that she found all the messages and feedback that they have  
received very disheartening and disappointing. She stated that they all appreciate immensely  
what their town employees do. None of them made lightly the decision of cutting the  
magnitude of the salary increases for the Town Clerk, the Human Resources Director, the  
Finance Director, and the Land Use Director. Before the First Referendum, they all voted  
“Yes” for those increases. On making the decision of decreasing the amount of the salary  
increases, that she took the task of looking at the salaries of other Towns and sharing that  
information with her fellow Councilors. She stated that she looked at the salaries of the  
Towns surveyed in the Salary Study that was done specifically for Preston. In that study,  
after the Town of Preston received the results, they decided to increase the salaries of their  
Department Heads/Administrators in a staggered way and not all at once as has been  
proposed in Ledyard’s Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget. She stated that her intention was to  
approach those salary increases in a similar way to how Preston adopted their salary  
increases and that it was not in a pre-orchestrated way as was stated in Mr. Bonin’s email. In  
addition to that, she stated that it was important to clarify that the results of the Salary Study  
was specific to Preston. The Firm hired to conduct the Salary Study did an analysis of what  
each position entailed and interviewed each employee to understand their responsibilities,  
skills, education, experience, etc. Based on that information and the Survey that they  
surveyed other towns, and the Firm recommended a range of salaries (low-point, mid-point,  
high-point) for each position. Such a Study has not been done for Ledyard. As Mr. Bonin  
expressed in his email regarding her comparison of salaries to Colchester, the results from  
the Preston study cannot be applied completely to the Town of Ledyard due to the  
differences in responsibilities, skills, education, and experience of the employees in  
analogous positions. That being said, her vote for the Motion that Councilor St. Vil made  
was based on the information available, noting that they do not have a Study for Ledyard like  
the Study that was done for Preston. She noted in the Town Council Meeting of February 15,  
2023, Former Councilor Bill Saums stated the following “…they did not have a mechanism  
to survey surrounding towns to find out what employees do in similar positions because all  
of the positions were different, the requirements were different, and the staffing level was  
different among towns.”  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went on to state that she and the rest of the Councilors that voted  
“Yes” for Councilor St. Vil’s Motion did it with a heavy heart as they all know that Ledyard  
employees give their best to their town. She stated that it was very difficult for them to come  
to their decision as this year the increase in the mil rate was quite significant and as the  
Mayor has mentioned many times, that many residents can barely make ends meet, which  
was something that they have to consider when making decisions regarding the taxpayers’  
money.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted at the time when the Resolution Establishing  
Administrator/Department Head Benefits was passed, Former Town Councilor Andra Ingalls  
(Republican), Former Town Councilor Bill Saums (Democrat), and even Town Councilor  
Tim Ryan and Kevin Dombrowski (Republicans) shared the same or similar sentiment as the  
majority of the Councilors on the 27th Town Council. She noted the Finance Committee  
Minutes of January 4, 2023, and she quoted Former Councilor Bill Saums as follows:  
“Councilor Saums addressed the language in the new Wage and Compensation Section as  
follows: “Employees shall be paid at the rate as designated by the Mayor or contractually  
negotiated. Increases in wages shall be effective on the first day of July and may not be less  
than the percentage of the highest union contracted increase for that fiscal year”. He stated  
that the town has been very careful with raises for Department Heads; noting that the  
Department Heads have not received many raises; and the raises they received have not  
been much. Therefore, he stated that he was in-favor with keeping the Department Head’s  
wage increases at par or upping them a little based on the past cycle. However, he stated if  
this clause was included in the Resolution; and for some reason one union asked for a 5%  
wage increase, and the town said “No”; but the union then won their case through  
Arbitration; that the fourteen Department Heads covered by the Resolution would also  
receive a 5% wage increase. Therefore, he stated he had concerns, because the town did not  
have total control over what they give their union employees.” Councilor Garcia-Irizarry  
stated in addition, Former Councilor Saums also expressed during that meeting the  
following: “He concluded by expressing concern that with the proposed wage language, as  
written, in the ‘Resolution Establishing Administrator/Department Head Benefits’ that they  
could end up giving some big raises unintentionally. He questioned whether they could  
write the wage language in a way that would prevent them from unintentionally giving big  
raises to Department Heads.” Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went on to note at the same meeting  
that Councilor Ryan suggested the following: “…basing the Department Head wage  
increases on an average of wage increases of the bargaining units.”  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated as they could see, at the time the Councilors back then were  
concerned about a 5% increase, noting that it seemed like increases of 10% and 20% was not  
something that they ever imagined back then.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry continued to quote excerpts from the February 15, 2023 Finance  
Committee Meeting by Former Councilor Andra Ingalls as follows: “…stating that she  
agreed with sunsetting the term and making sure that they were paying competitive wages.  
She stated part of the work in stewarding the town’s resources was that they were  
stewarding tax dollars, noting that the best resource the town had was their employees.  
Therefore, she stated in stewarding the resource of the town it meant taking proper care of  
our professionals. She stated the best way they could do that was to pay them a competitive  
rate. She stated that they could not afford to go to high, noting that every tax bump was  
being paid by people who cannot afford it. She stated one person’s pay increase was coming  
out of someone else’s household budget. She stated that they were aware of all of this, and  
that they feel the tension of it, and that they want to do right by everyone, as much as they  
can.”  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry went to note the following quotes from the February 22, 2023  
Council Meeting noting that Former Councilor Bill Saums “stated while the Finance  
Committee understood the intent, that they had concerns regarding the possible long-term  
and unintended consequences.” In addition, he “stated the Finance Committee talked with  
the Administrator of Human Resources Don Steinhoff about a couple of ideas and they  
settled on the idea of accepting the Department Heads proposed language for three years:  
“wage increases may not be less than the percentage of the highest union contracted  
increase for that fiscal year”, noting that conceptually that would put the Department Heads  
wages closer to about where they should be. However, he stated to avoid the law of  
unintended consequences, the Finance Committee added the following language to sunset  
the clause after three years ‘…and continuing until June 30, 2025.”  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that the term of the Resolution was scheduled to sunset at  
the end of this month which meant that the Resolution has to be reviewed and acknowledged  
with any changes becoming effective on after July 1st, 2025. She stated that she would also  
like to add that the salary increases could have been started in the FY of 2025, but that was  
not done and now it was all being done at once before the Resolution sunsets.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted the February 22, 2023 Town Council Minutes in which  
Former Councilor Andra Ingalls was quoted as follows “stated budgets were a value  
statement. She stated by putting numbers into a budget that they were communicating their  
values, priorities, what the community needed and the things they think were important. She  
stated because there were always multiple needs pulling on the same pot of money there  
were tensions. She stated part of that pulling/tension was stewarding their tax dollars and  
stewarding their professionals. She stated the town’s professionals were paid with tax  
dollars and that some of those tax dollars were being demanded of people who could not  
afford to pay somebody else’s pay increases. She stated every time she voted ‘yes’ on these  
types of decisions that she feels the tension, noting that she feels the need to take care of our  
staff and that she feels the ach of someone who cannot afford to pay somebody else’s pay  
increase; and that she knows everyone on the Town Council feels the same way. She stated  
the reality of working with the budget was that it affects people. She stated that they were  
always working to try to find that balance, noting that they cannot be absorbent, and at the  
same time they cannot be dismissive of the skill set that was being brought to the town.”  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated in addition to Former Councilor Andra Ingalls’ comments  
that Former Councilor Saums “stated during the School Superintendent’s Fiscal Year  
2023/2024 Budget presentation earlier this evening, that he had the same thoughts that  
Councilor Ingalls expressed. He stated he was thinking that the taxpayers cannot afford an  
increase; or if they can afford it that they do not want to pay it. However, he stated at the  
same time they have to look at what was happening to their kids. He stated that they have to  
strike a balance, noting that they have to get the kids the education they need, because they  
were going to produce and pay the taxes down the road; and at the same time, they have to  
be sensitive to those who have to pay for that education. Councilor Paul stated that he  
appreciated the comments made this evening. He stated from a layman perspective that  
every time he hears about a tax increase that his heart sinks. He stated these are the types of  
things he talks about with residents, noting that it comes down to money. However, he stated  
they have a responsibility to provide education and services to the town.” Also, “Chairman  
Dombrowski noted both Councilor Saums’ and Councilor Ingalls’ comments, and he stated  
by making an investment in their employees that they were making an investment for their  
residents and for the town, but at the same time he stated they needed to be careful not to  
over burden their residents. He also addressed the importance to recognize the skill set of  
their employees and to make sure they were compensated at a point in which they wanted to  
continue work and produce for the town. However, he stated at the same time they have to  
recognize that it was the residents of the town who have to pay for it. He stated this was the  
difficult challenge they had serving as members of the Town Council.”  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated in reading all the minutes from 2023 that she quoted this  
evening that she agreed with the statements that Former Councilors Andra Ingalls, Bill  
Saums, and Gary Paul expressed in that meeting. She stated that she also agreed with the  
statements made at that meeting by Councilor Dombrowski.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that they want to appropriately compensate their employees  
and diminish the impact of taxes in their residents, which was why they proposed an  
increase of 4%; and they suggested that additional salary increases in the same range be done  
each year to try to bring the Department Heads salaries to market rate.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted during the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Meeting that  
Councilor Ryan mentioned the salaries of the School Principals and other School  
Administrators. She stated that those salaries were negotiated by the Board of Education;  
and the Town Council has no say over those negotiations, noting that the salary increases  
were 3% per year. She stated in addition to that; they acknowledge that the voters said that  
both the General Government Budget and the Board of Education Budget were Too High  
with more voters saying that the General Government was Too High. Taking in  
consideration the opinion of the voters, the Motion that Councilor St. Vil made did not  
include any wording to reinstate the funds that were cut at the Finance Committee meeting  
for the Board of Education’s Operational and Capital Budgets, noting that those cuts were  
not touched by this Town Council. She stated even with the cuts to the salary increases; the  
dollar amount of the cuts made to the Board of Education were still higher than the dollar  
amount of the cuts made to the General Government Budget.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry proceeded by stating that now, she would like to address the  
discrepancies regarding Land Use Director/Town Planner Ms. Burdick’s salary. She stated in  
the FY 2024, the salary approved by the voters for the Land Use Department Head was  
$95,270, but the actual salary was $105,220, pointing out that this was a significant  
discrepancy that does not match what the voters approved. In addition to that, Finance  
Director Matthew Bonin and Land Use Director/Town Planner Elizabeth Burdick brought to  
the Town Council’s attention that the salary for the Land Use Director position that was  
included in the Motion that Councilor St. Vil made was an actual reduction of her current  
salary. Both Mr. Bonin and Ms. Burdick wrote to the Town Council to clarify that Ms.  
Burdick’s current salary was $105,220; however, Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the salary  
approved by the voters for her position in FY 2025 was $98,150. She stated the 4% increase  
proposed in Councilor St. Vil’s Motion was based on the $98,150 salary that was approved  
by the voters; and not what her current salary was. Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated that if  
her memory does not fail her, that the Town Council was never informed of the increase in  
the salary of that position. She noted the numbers that were included in the Councilor St.  
Vil’s Motion were based on the numbers provided to them in the budget materials. She  
stated that the Town Council could not make accurate decisions if the numbers were  
incorrect.  
Councilor St. Vil stated what Councilor Garcia-Irizarry just presented were the facts. He  
stated to summarize that they reviewed facts, data, and previous Town Council actions. He  
stated as First Term Councilors that they were ignorant of the politics, of how information  
can be presented, and how misinformation plays a part in their constituents perspective.  
Nonetheless, Councilor St. Vil stated that he would vote for what he believed was the right  
thing; noting that the right thing was the children in this town.  
Councilor Dombrowski stated that this Town Council now had the challenge to figure out  
what was the right path forward; noting that he appreciated the comments made this evening  
by all of their residents, town staff, and Board of Education Members. He stated in working  
on this partnership that they need to be engineers and analytically review the data and the  
facts; while they try to take the emotion out of their decisions to determine what was the  
right number for the town. He stated that they might not agree on what that number should  
be; or they may not agree on how to achieve that number, or they may not agree on what the  
number would ultimately end up being. However, he stated that what they do must be in the  
best interest of the town, noting that was their task, regardless of emotion. Thank you.  
Councilor Buhle stated at the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Meeting that she voted  
alongside four other Councilors to reduce the salary increases of four talented and  
hardworking department heads. She stated that despite the information presented after the  
fact that this was not something within Town Council’s authority, that she must be honest,  
noting that she regretted her “Yes” vote as soon as the meeting was over, probably actually  
right after she said “Yes”. Not because of backlash from opposing Councilors, but because  
she voted to support those pay increases the first time and truthfully, she supported the first  
budget forwarded by the Council wholeheartedly. However, she heard the voices of the  
residents who spoke out, both in public comment and email, and also in private and in  
personal conversations. The overwhelming concern that market rate salary adjustments were  
not appropriate in this budget year, and some residents, as a whole, feeling that the salary  
increases were unjustified.  
Councilor Buhle went on to note that she heard the comments from Councilor  
Garcia-Irizarry, with information providing other salary numbers that aligned with the  
Motion presented: “to reduce the salary increases to 4% instead of the market rate  
adjustments originally proposed”. She stated that she personally attempted to start the  
discussion to find a halfway point that valued their town employees but also respected the  
concerns of their residents and voters, though there were no alternative numbers proposed.  
With that she learned that she should have had more of a spine and proposed something  
more fair and favorable all around. She stated the longer she had to think about it, not  
because of corrections and backlash, but because her brain does not let things go; and  
because she does not sleep when she is anxious, she must say that she has grown to regret it  
further. She noted that she did not regret acting in what she had considered to be the wishes  
of the residents who voted and expressed their opinions publicly or privately. However, she  
stated that she does regret that she did not address it the way she had addressed the Board of  
Education funding, which was to continue to fight for what the right thing was for this town  
with education and good conversations. She stated that she personally thinks the negativity to  
these increases were a knee jerk reaction to the numbers, the same way others have a knee  
jerk reaction to the overall Board of Education Budget.  
Councilor Buhle stated that she knows that the path forward to fund the Board of Education  
at the right levels needed to continue to provide excellent education required her to push  
back against those who argue to reduce funding. She stated that she should have brought that  
same energy to defining the market rate salary adjustments/increases.  
Councilor Bule concluded her comments by stating that she apologizes to those who dedicate  
their work to the growth and improvement of this town, whom she has slighted and  
disrespected when she should have used her voice to stand up for them the way she has stood  
up for education funding.  
VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES  
MOTION to approve the following Town Council Minutes:  
·
·
·
·
·
·
Special Meeting Minutes of May 14, 2025  
Regular Meeting Minutes of May 14, 2025  
Special Meeting Minutes of May 19, 2025  
Special Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2025  
Public Hearing Minutes of June 4, 2024  
Special Meeting Minutes of June 4, 2025  
Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Brunelle  
VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Kevin Dombrowski  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
April Brunelle  
SECONDER:  
IX.  
COMMUNICATIONS  
Communications List - June 11, 2025  
X.  
REFERALS  
XI.  
COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS  
Administration Committee  
1.  
Councilor Buhle stated the Administration Committee met earlier this evening and  
addressed the following: (1) “Ordinance Establishing an Ethics Commission for the Town of  
Ledyard”.- Councilor Buhle noted the Committee made some final edits to the Ordinance  
and would be forwarding the document to the Town Attorney for their legal review and  
recommendations; (2) “Resolution Establishing a Sustainable-CT Ad-hoc Committee” -  
Councilor Buhle stated the Committee made some final edits to the Ad Hoc Committee  
Membership and forwarded a recommendation for Town Council approval at their July 9,  
2025 meeting; (3) Job Descriptions - Councilor Buhle noted the Committee reviewed  
updates with Human Resources Director Christine Dias regarding the following: Mechanic  
II; Fiscal Assistant II Finance and Human Resources; Fiscal Assistant II Finance  
Department; and Assistant to the Tax Collector; and (4) Reappointments to the Farmers  
Market Committee and the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission - Councilor  
Buhle noted these reappointments would be forwarded to the Town Council’s July 9, 2025  
Agenda.  
.
RESULT:  
Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion  
2.  
Councilor Brunelle stated the Community Relations Committee for DEI next meeting was  
scheduled for June 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. She reported that the Pride Day Pizza In the Park  
would be held on the Town Green on Saturday, June 28, 2025 from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m.  
She stated that they would have a Pizza, Ice Cream, Balloon Twister, and D.J. She stated  
that all were welcome.  
.
RESULT:  
Finance Committee  
3.  
4.  
Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee cancelled their June 4, 2025 meeting;  
however, they have two items on tonight’s Agenda.  
.
RESULT:  
Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee  
Councilor St. Vil stated the LUPPW Committee met on June 2, 2025, however, he stated he  
did not have anything noteworthy to report for this evening.  
.
RESULT:  
Liaison Reports  
Historic District Commission  
1.  
Councilor Barnes stated the Commission has been working through the process to seek a  
Historic Designation for the Spicer Homestead Ruins which was located within the town-owned  
Clark Farm Property. He stated the A2 Survey was complete, which was good news, noting that  
they were looking at the next step in the process.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission Fiscal Year 2024/2025  
2.  
Councilor Barnes stated the Town received the Good News! that their 2025 STEAP Grant  
Application was approved in the amount of $892,000 noting that it would require a $179,000  
town match for Playscape Improvement Projects for the following:  
·
·
$567,588.38 - Town Green ADA Park included new equipment, installation, Poured In  
Place (PIP) Surfacing, R& D of existing equipment.  
$199,113.00 - Colonel Ledyard/Blonders Park included new Playground Equipment,  
installation, Poured In Place (PIP) Surfacing under new equipment and under existing swings  
and R&D of existing equipment.  
·
·
$141,321.42- Aljen Heights Park included new Playground Equipment and swings,  
installation, Poured In Place (PIP) Surfacing under new equipment and swings and R&D of  
existing equipment.  
$163,865.30 - East Drive includes new Playground Equipment and swings, installation,  
Poured In Place (PIP) Surfacing under new equipment and swings, and R&D of existing  
equipment.  
Councilor Barnes also noted that the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP)  
would be stocking the Sawmill Pond with fish for no cost to the Town.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
Conservation Commission  
3.  
Councilor Barnes stated the Conservation Commission has some concern regarding invasive  
species in Long Pond and Bush Pond. He noted that the Conservation Commission would be  
working with Parks & Recreation on the invasive species, explaining that the cost to treat the  
invasive species was about $2,500; and that it would need to be done every few years. He stated  
there was going to be some discussion regarding the Parks and potential avenues for funding to  
share the burden. He stated the Conservation Commission may hold a “Fishing a Challenge” at  
Long Pond and Bush Pond this year.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
Library Commission  
4.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Library Commission’s next meeting was scheduled for June  
16, 2025. She reported the Library App, which was paid in part by the Town and in part by the  
Friends of the Library allowed residents to borrow 4 books a month through the Book Cloud.  
However, she explained because funding for the Library App has run out they had to stop  
offering books through the Book Cloud; but that eBooks were still available to patrons.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
Board of Education  
5.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Board of Education met on June 10, 2025 and she reported  
the following: (1) Teacher Workload - Teachers spoke during “Public Comment” about their  
increasing workload at the expense of their lesson planning time. They normally have an hour or  
so for lesson planning for grading, but sometimes they have to use that time to do other  
administrative work that they did not have to do in the past and that it keeps getting bigger and  
bigger. After their work day during the week when they go home that they keep grading papers  
and making lesson plans, and on Saturdays as well; (2) Recognition Ceremony for Juliet W.  
Long School and Gallup Hill School was scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025; and (3)  
Discussed the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget and other Policy Matters.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission  
6.  
7.  
Councilor St. Vil noted the IWWC met on June 3, 2025 and he noted that he had no major  
updates to report.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
Planning & Zoning Commission  
Councilor St. Vil stated the Planning & Zoning Commission would be meeting on Thursday,  
June 12, 2025 in the Council Chambers. He stated their Agenda included proposed text  
Amendments to the Zoning Regulations. He stated the Commission would be looking for  
feedback from the residents regarding the proposed Zoning Regulations Amendments.  
RECEIVED AND FILED  
RESULT:  
REPORT OF THE MAYOR:  
XIII  
Mayor Allyn, III, stated that he wanted to touch on a couple of things Councilor Garcia-Irizarry  
mentioned specifically not only here tonight, but also on her incredibly lengthy Facebook Post as  
follows:  
· Staggering the Salary Increases:. Mayor Allyn noted that Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated  
that many Town Councilors advocated to stagger the salary adjustments until the salaries were at  
market rate. He reminded the Town Council that last year they began the process to stagger  
bringing the Administrator/Department Head salaries up to market rate with their Administrative  
Assistant Roxanne Maher and his Executive Assistant Kristen Chapman, noting the remaining  
Administrator/Department Heads whose salaries were below market rate would be increased in  
the upcoming budget year (fy 25/26). Therefore, he stated that they put two salaries through last  
year with the plan to put the remaining three salary adjustments in this coming year’s budget,  
noting that was the “Staggering Plan”.  
· Salary Survey Study: Mayor Allyn stated that he understands that this was Councilor  
Garcia-Irizarry’s first two-year term as an elected official, however, he was disappointed with  
her comments regarding Ledyard not conducting their own Salary Study when other towns were  
willing to share the Salary Survey Study they conducted noting that this saved Ledyard about  
$30,000. He stated the $30,000 Ledyard saved by using the Salary Survey Study that Preston  
conducted with Brooklyn; was about equal to the Administrators/Department Head salary  
adjustments required to bring them up to the mid-range of the market rate for their positions. He  
stated by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry advocating that Ledyard go out on their own to conduct a  
Salary Survey Study was senseless and pointless, noting that if all the town’s did that they would  
be reinventing the wheel 169 times in this state.  
· Department Head Wages in Budget Book- Mayor Allyn noted that Councilor  
Garcia-Irizarry talked about the department head wages and what appears in the budget book,  
and she said that she would rather see Munis printouts; which was actually shocking, because  
most people do not want to see Munis printouts. He stated that most would prefer to see a  
spreadsheet that showed a three-year history; the current year; and then the proposed budget  
year. He stated during the Budget Work Sessions, which was very early in the budget process it  
was mentioned that there were several people that were hired during the interim of the year; and  
that those salaries were identified as the predecessor's salary at the time.  
· 4% Salary Increases - Mayor Allyn stated that Councilor Garcia-Irizarry mentioned 4%  
raises and the “Resolution Establishing Administrator/Department Head Benefits” that was adopted  
on February 22, 2023. However, he stated the “Resolution Establishing Administrator/Department  
Head Benefits” was originally adopted on March 10, 1989; noting that the  
Administrators/Department Head Resolution has been around long before many of us. He  
explained that the Resolution was a long-standing five- page document that was essentially a  
handshake Agreement with Department Heads, as opposed to a union contract that could be 50-  
60 pages or more. He stated the “Resolution Establishing Administrator/Department Head  
Benefits” talks about 3% raises, which was the typical the increase that the Union Contracts  
received. He stated in bringing these Administrators/Department Head salaries up to the  
mid-range of the market rate for their positions, that giving them a 4% increase was like maxing  
out a credit card and then saying that they were going to make the minimum payment every year;  
and that they were going to catch-up. However, he stated that it would never happen, noting with  
a minimum payment they would never be able to catch-up. He stated that he proposed adjusting  
these salaries to below the mid-range of a salary survey that was already two-years old. He stated  
these Administrators/Department have been underpaid for many years with the continuous  
promise that their salaries would be brought up to market rate, but each year that does not  
happen. He stated if Ledyard does not start paying these employees fairly for the work they do;  
the town would lose some incredibly high-quality staff; and that would turn the town upside  
down; however, he stated that it may be their goal. He stated that he was stunned to hear what  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry was saying, and to see what she put in print, noting that they have  
talked about the Salary Study for the 6th or 7th time.  
Mayor Allyn stated that he would yield the remainder of his time for his Report to any other  
Administrator/Department Heads that wanted to speak to the Town Council this evening.  
Chairman Rodriguez responded to Mayor Allyn stating that this time of the meeting was for the  
Mayor Report, noting that the Public already had their time to speak at the beginning of the  
Meeting. Therefore, she stated if he would like to give his Report that the floor was his.  
Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) National Opioid Settlement Funding - Mayor  
Allyn stated the town received $11,507 in the latest National Opioid Settlement Disbursement;  
(2) Gales Ferry School Roof Replacement - Mayor Allyn stated they were still having major  
issues with the roof, noting that more information would be coming; (3) Farmers Market  
Opening Day - June 4, 2025- Mayor Allyn stated he Rang the Bell for the Opening of the 2025  
Farmers Market Season, noting they had a fantastic turn out; (4) Yale- Harvard Regatta  
Luncheon - June 5, 2025 - Mayor Allyn stated he attended the Luncheon noting that the Regatta  
Day Weekend was great; (5) Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG)  
Legislative Breakfast - June 10, 2025 - Mayor Allyn stated that the SCCOG’s has been lobbying  
the State to stop putting Unfunded Mandates on the towns. He noted that there were more than  
1,400+ Unfunded Mandates and that the list grows every year. He stated the Veterans Tax  
Exemption was one of the recent Unfunded Mandates. Mayor Allyn noted the following State  
Legislative Updates: (a) Farm Equipment Exemption increased from $100,000 to $250,000; and  
(b) Omnibus Housing Bill passed; (6) Town Attorney Protocol - Mayor Allyn stated in response  
to a number of people independently reaching out to Town Attorney Matt Ritter; that Attorney  
Ritter followed up with him because people should not be contacting him directly; and that they  
needed to go through the Mayor’s Office. He stated that if the Town Council would like  
Attorney Ritter to put this protocol in writing that he has offered to do so. Mayor Allyn stated  
that per Attorney Ritter the town would be billed for every one of the emails that Councilors sent  
to him because he received multiple emails. He stated this was not to say that he pulled back  
what Members of the Town Council could do, but that they need to go through the proper  
channels; (7) Organic Compost Program - Southeastern Connecticut Regional Resources  
Recovery Authority (SCRRRA) - Mayor Allyn stated Public Works Director/Town Engineer  
Steve Masalin spoke with SCRRRA today about Ledyard discontinuing their Organic Compost  
Program. He stated that SCRRRA has agreed to continue Ledyard’s Organic Compost Program  
and to also pick-up the cost.  
Questions to the Mayor  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry addressed the Organic Compost Program with Blue Earth and she  
requested clarification, noting that Ledyard would discontinue the Program with Blue Earth and  
that Southeastern Connecticut Regional Resources Recovery Authority (SCRRRA) would  
continue the Program and pay for the cost. Mayor Allyn stated that Public Works Director/Town  
Engineer Steve Masalin and SCRRRA just spoke today noting that the details still needed to be  
ironed out.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry noted Mayor Allyn’s comments regarding the Land Use  
Director/Town Planner’s salary being reduced and her preference to receive the Munis Printouts.  
She stated that she agreed with Mayor Allyn that no one wants to read the Munis Printouts  
because they are complicated. She stated that the Munis Printout Salary Line for Land Use  
Director/Town Planner said that Ms. Burdick was hired at $105,220; that was the reason she said  
they should read the Munis Printout, noting that the Town Council went by the numbers in the  
Budget spreadsheet. She noted that the Town Council gets a lot of information, and she stated if  
the Land Use Director/Town Planner’s $105,220 salary was mentioned during one of the  
meetings, that she does not remember that. She stated that she feels bad for Ms. Burdick because  
they were unaware, and unintentionally cut her salary, noting that Ms. Burdick was completely  
right, that was never their intention, noting that they were just following the numbers that were  
provided.  
Mayor Allyn stated there were five Administrators/Department Heads whose salaries needed to  
be adjusted to bring them up to the mid-range of the Salary Survey Study that was already  
two-years old. He stated two Administrators/Department Head’s salaries were adjusted last year  
(fy 24/25) and the salaries for the remaining three Administrators/ Department Heads were  
supposed to be adjusted in the upcoming budget year (fy 25/26). He provided clarification noting  
that the salaries were supposed to be “Adjusted” they were not talking about a “General Wage  
Increase”. He stated ironically, the Land Use Director/Town Planner salary was not part of the  
five Administrators/Department Heads that were identified for a Salary Adjustment.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated the Town Council received the Mayor’s proposed Fiscal Year  
2025/2026 Budget on March 3, 2025 in accordance with the Town Charter. She stated the Town  
Council was working off the proposed budget that was submitted, noting that was the document  
they worked from during this whole budget cycle. She stated that she attended every Budget  
Work Session (March 6, 10, 18); and she took notes on every page of the budget. She stated in  
the Mayor’s proposed budget the history provided for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 listed Land Use  
Director/Town Planner salary at $98,140; noting that if there was a change that she would have  
written it down. Therefore, she stated the increase provided in the Mayor’s submitted budget was  
reflecting a 10.2% salary increase for the Land Use Director/Town Planner from the current  
year’s salary that was listed in the budget spreadsheet. She noted the current year’s salary listed  
was $98,140; and the proposed Fiscal Year 2025/2026 salary was listed as $108,150 showing a  
10.2% increase.  
Chairman Rodriguez went on to state in March and in April during the Finance Committee  
Meetings that she commented that the voters would not like to see double digit salary increases.  
Mayor Allyn stated during the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Special Meeting that she also said  
that they thought they were giving 4% salary increases for these Administrators/Department  
Heads. Chairman Rodriguez noted the May 19, 2025 Annual Town Meeting Fiscal Year  
2025/2026 Budget Handout to the residents for the May 20, 2025 Referendum that the budget  
history listed for the Land Use Director/Town Planner salary in the current fiscal year (fy 24/25)  
showed a salary of $98,140 with a proposed fiscal Year (25/26) salary of $105,220; reflecting a  
10.2% increase, noting that this was the information the Town Council worked from and the  
proposed budget the voters received. She stated that she apologized to Land Use Director/Town  
Planner Elizabeth Burdick, noting that it did look like a pay cut. She stated no wonder Ms.  
Burdick was upset, noting that it was unintentional stating that nobody wanted to do that.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated immediately after the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Special  
Meeting that she saw Councilor Barnes, Councilor Buhle, Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, and  
Councilor Saccone talking about what could be done to make this right, noting that they  
regretted what was done. She stated that she thought about options, noting that the first person  
she called was the Mayor. She stated that she went to the Mayor’s Office to speak to him twice,  
but because he was not in his Office, she later called and gave him her idea of a plan to make  
this right; and that he immediately agreed to her plan. She stated that she told the Mayor that she  
wanted to talk with the Administrators/Department Heads right away to relieve their anxiety.  
She stated that she first spoke to Town Clerk Patricia Riley, noting they had a heart-to-heart  
honest conversation, and she appreciated that. She stated she then spoke with Finance Director  
Matthew Bonin, noting that he had to rush off to a meeting, but he let her know how he felt  
about what the Town Council did. She stated because she was sick on Tuesday that she was not  
able talk to anyone else until this week. She stated that she had conversations with Land Use  
Director/Town Planner Elizabeth Burdick, and Human Resources Director Christine Dias about  
the plans that were put into place to correct what had been done.  
Chairman Rodrigeuz noted as Councilor Dombrowski stated, they were between a rock and a  
hard place when it comes to this budget. She stated during the time the Town Council was  
working to prepare the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget in March that her husband was laid off,  
noting she does hear the concerns about the 31% of Ledyard residents that were included in the  
ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed); and therefore, she was worried. She  
stated that she heard that residents cannot afford a tax increase as Executive Assistant/Social  
Services Coordinator Kristen Chapman described earlier this evening. She stated they were in  
the same position and know what residents were going through. She stated the Town Council  
has to make some hard decisions on the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 budget noting that absolutely no  
one would be happy with whatever they decide tonight; but they have to come up with a budget  
by the fourth Monday in June per the Town Charter and they have to notify the State of the  
Town’s Budget by June 30, 2025.  
Councilor Brunelle stated that she did not say anything earlier this evening during the  
“Councilor Comments” portion of tonight’s Agenda. She stated that she wanted to apologize for  
her words, explaining that they came out in a way that she did not intend. She stated in no way  
did she want to insult anyone's intelligence, or how hard they work. She stated that her intention  
was only to comment that they could not compare salaries fairly between the Town side and  
Public Education side. She stated that the Town Council does not have all the information, and  
they were not allowed to mention anything about the salaries for the Board of Education because  
the Board of Education handles them. She stated that she totally gets it, that the  
Administrators/Department Heads think that she hates them, or that she thinks that they stupid,  
but that was not true. She stated that anybody who knows her knows that she is a very nice  
person, that she likes everyone, that she was very respectful, and very appreciative of everyone.  
She stated that she feels really bad, because she does not like to see animosity and finger  
pointing and acting like someone has a hidden agenda. She stated that none of them have a  
hidden agenda, and they do not want to make anybody suffer, or take your money away, noting  
that was never the intention. She stated as many people have said the Town Council did not want  
to make anybody feel bad; and they did not want to make anybody feel like they were not being  
heard. But sometimes words are misspoken, and they come across incorrectly, and she  
apologizes for that. She stated that they all have to get along and work together. She stated that  
none of them would be sitting here if they did not care about the town. She stated it was easy to  
say “You're a bad guy; You're a bad guy; I don't like you; . You're wrong. You're against this or  
that” . But that was not true; nobody here was against anybody, we were just trying to make the  
best decisions as Councilor St. Vil said. She stated that she does not agree with taking all the  
emotion out of their decisions because emotion was what makes us. She stated Yes, at some  
point they have to be analytical; Yes, at some point they have to look at the numbers and the  
data; Yes, but you also have to have a heart and compassion, or you would not care about  
people. She stated that she has three jobs; she grew up and went to school in Olneyville, which  
was an inner city in Providence, Rhode Island. She stated that she could tell them that her school  
was not the best funded, noting that they were lucky if they had grants once in a while that got  
them out of the city to do fun things, but it was very few and very far between. She stated that  
they did not have an excellent education system. She stated the reason she was making this  
comment was because she wants to encourage everyone tonight to work together because they  
need to make the best decision for the town. She stated unfortunately this budget was always  
going to be hard because there was too much that had to be funded with too little to fund it with.  
She stated that nobody wants to attack the General Government versus Board of Education, but  
that they have to make some kind of decision tonight, and that was all she wanted to say. Thank  
you.  
Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated at the end of the Town Council’s May 27, 2025 Special Meeting  
that she approached Councilor Saccone and Councilor Barnes and asked if there was any way  
that the Finance Committee could have a Motion that would guarantee a certain percentage  
increase for Administrators/Department Heads, that could be done in a period of 2 or 3 years,  
until their salaries were adjusted.  
Mayor Allyn stated that he hears what Councilor Garcia-Irizarry was saying. However, he stated  
when they were talking about $30,000 in a $29,901,179 General Government Budget that they  
were splitting hairs for the minutia on this issue. Chairman Rodriguez stated at the Town  
Council’s May 27, 2025 Special Meeting that she recommended doing half this year and half  
next year. Mayor Allyn stated that although he was nodding his head in agreement that no one  
made a Motion to support Chairman Rodriguez’s idea, so nothing happened. He stated that it  
was important to note that he has never been as vocal as he has been in these meetings, because  
these were critical staff people in Town Hall for the operation of the General Government and  
town services provided to residents. He went on to note that he has said it time and time again at  
least 6 or 7 times, so the Town Council knows where he stands on fairly compensating their  
Administrators/Department Heads for the work they do for the town.  
.
RESULT:  
XIII. OLD BUSINESS  
None.  
XIV. NEW BUSINESS  
Finance Committee  
MOTION to grant a Bid Waiver to Groton Utilities, 295 Meridan Street, Groton, in the amount  
of up-to $138,000 for emergency repairs to a water line that has impacted 10 homes in the  
Highlands Neighborhood.  
2.  
Moved by Councilor Dombrowski, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
Discussion: Water Pollution Control Authority Chairman Ed Lynch, attending remotely via  
Zoom, explained that one of the original 10-inch cast-iron water pipes that was installed during  
the 1960’s on Thompson Road in the Highlands Neighborhood was falling apart. He stated every  
time there was a leak they have to shut down the entire Highlands Neighborhood because of the  
lack of valves on the system. He stated because they were actually repairing something that was  
not originally done properly that it would be considered “New Construction” and it would  
involve some engineering work; and Groton Utilities, as their water operations provider, would  
need to inspect the installation, etc., before they took on the responsibility of the water line. He  
stated because the engineering, inspections and other things were already included in the current  
Water Operations Contract the WPCA has with Groton Utilities that a Bid Waiver to Groton  
Utilities was being requested for several reasons, which included the cost savings for the  
engineering work, inspections; and other associated costs. In addition, he stated that because  
Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin indicated that the road needed to be paved  
that the WPCA thought it would be a good opportunity to get the water line repaired before the  
road was paved. Mr. Lynch stated that this work would include the installation of a 4”- 352-foot  
ductile iron pipe with a 10-inch valve to prevent them from having to shut all the water down for  
the entire Highlands Neighborhood in the future should they have a leak. Mr. Lynch also noted  
that there would also be a cost savings by doing this during the day instead of at night and  
having to pay overtime rates. He stated that ten homes on Thompson Road would be affected.  
VO- 0T-E17Approved and so declared (St. Vil abstained)  
APPROVED AND SO DECLARED  
Kevin Dombrowski  
RESULT:  
MOVER:  
April Brunelle  
SECONDER:  
8
Barnes, Brunelle, Buhle, Dombrowski, Garcia-Irizarry, Rodriguez,  
Saccone, and St. Vil  
AYE:  
1
Ryan  
EXCUSED:  
MOTION to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget in the amount of $70,364,977 comprised  
of:  
2.  
·
·
General Government: $29,902,735_  
Board of Education: $40,462,242.  
Chairman Rodriguez stated the Second Budget Referendum that was held on June 10, 2025  
Failed. She noted in accordance with Chapter VII; Section 6 of 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 there  
with for the ensuing fiscal year. Therefore, she stated that the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget was  
now in the Town Council’s hands at this point in the process. She stated that while we all want  
to be mindful of the many competing demands in both the General Government Budget and the  
Board of Education Budgets that she was going to ask that tonight they focus and work to adopt  
a budget that the Town, Schools, and our residents can live with. She stated that they have all  
given their commentary at many meetings on why they each support; or do not support certain  
aspects of the budget; and many have made their positions known both at multiple meetings; on  
social media; and other venues throughout this process. Therefore, she stated that tonight she  
would ask that they all reserve opening statements; commentary; and posturing; and that they  
stay focused on the task at hand. She stated that this Year has been a long and arduous budget  
process; and it was time to once again roll up their sleeves; work together; and get the business  
of the town done by putting a budget in place for the Town to move forward with the upcoming  
fiscal year; in the interest of their residents.  
Chairman Rodriguez noted the Budget that was presented at the Second Referendum on June 10,  
2025; and failed was as follows:  
Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget in the amount of _$70,408,421; (comprised of  
General Government of $29,901,179; and Board of Education of $40,507,242)  
Chairman Rodriguez stated with that being said that she would like to put forward the following  
budget adjustments.  
vMOTION to approve the following adjustments to the proposed Fiscal Yea2r025/2026 Budget:  
Account #  
Title  
Finance Director  
Town Clerk  
Land Use Director  
Reinstate Salary (change from 6/10/2025  
$133,000 $17,083  
1011-2101-51600  
1011-0311-51600  
1011-4301-51600  
1011-0205-51606  
$ 77,400  
$108,150  
$ 97,850  
$ 7,639  
$ 6,084  
$ 1,442  
Human Resource Director  
Total General Government Increase:  
$32,248  
In addition, Adjust the following Accounts:  
Account #  
10110101-5879  
10110201-58790 Contingency- Mayor  
10110201-51305 Town Hall Floater  
10120301-5611  
10140107-56301  
Title  
Reduction (New Amount 6/11/2025)  
Contingency-Town Council  
$4,000  
$5,000  
$9,692  
$2,000  
$10,000  
$ 3,000  
$ 1,000  
$ 19,000  
$ 6,000  
$125,000  
$30,692  
Fire Marshall Oper  
Sand and Salt  
Total General Government Operating Decrease  
Board of Education Capital  
Title  
Reduction  
Board of Education Capital  
Total Board of Education Decrease  
$45,000  
$45,000  
Moved by Chairman Rodriguez seconded by Councilor Buhle  
Discussion: Chairman Rodriguez question the mil rate increase with the budget adjustments she  
presented in the Motion (above)  
Councilor Buhle noted that the mil rate increase would be 1.95; which was .04 mils less than the  
1.99 mil rate increase that was required to support the Revised Fiscal Year 2025/2026 that was  
presented at the Second Referendum on June 10, 2025.  
Councilor Buhle noted Chairman Rodriguez’s statement asking that they hold comments this  
evening. However, she stated that she had some prepared comments for this evening and  
requested permission to provide just some of her comments. Chairman Rodriguez agreed to  
Councilor Buhle’s request.  
Councilor Buhle proceeded by stating that she has seen this budget support become ridiculously  
partisan. She has seen comments about this budget essentially threatening her to “do the right  
thing” or lose her seat in November.  
Councilor Buhle stated that she would do the right thing; and if she loses her seat in November,  
that she would remind residents that she was here out of a deep love for her town and a desire to  
make it better, and that she does not do this for a love of power or money (certainly wouldn’t  
choose an unpaid position if that was her intention). She stated that she was elected to this seat  
because of the values she shares with the voters in this town, and the experiences that makes  
them neighbors and a great community.  
Councilor Buhle went on to state that her values were to support families like her family all  
around this town. While they may not all have the same experiences, privileges, lifestyles,  
budgets, or desires, they do share a few common goals: to live in a town that was amazing to call  
home, a town they were proud of, a town that values their children’s education, a town that  
strives to be better every chance it gets.  
Councilor Buhle stated that she would tell them right now that any additional cuts into this  
budget would take them all away from those common goals.  
Councilor Buhle noted when it comes to education, Ledyard has been in the bottom 10% of  
funding for ten years. Per Superintendent Hartling, the 2024-2025 School Year had 35 fewer  
support staff than the 2014-2015 School Year with almost the same number of students.  
Councilor Buhle stated, “Over the last decade, this town has continuously decided that  
education is not worth funding, and that she would not support that plan”.  
Councilor Buhle continued by stating that she would like to take a moment to cut out of her  
perfectly written speech and say that her son was in the special education program through the  
Town of Ledyard. She stated that the answer was not to fund education less. She stated the  
answer was to continue to provide resources for their educators; so they have support staff to  
provide the necessary services their special education students need, because they do not fund  
the choices for outplacement or for being homeschooled. She stated unfortunately, that does not  
work for most people, and it was a benefit for their town; and not a benefit for their students. She  
stated that this was something that she certainly struggled with in her family, and that she was so  
disheartened that it was something that affects so many of their residents. She stated that they  
were certainly not going to make it better, noting that 25% of the students in the State were  
special education students. She stated that it was not something they could afford, so it was  
something that absolutely needed their attention. She stated that she had a bunch of other things  
that she was going to say but they were not going to be really positive; so she would stop here.  
Councilor Barnes stated in his absence this evening that Councilor Ryan asked that he read his  
remarks as follows:  
Tim Ryan, Town Councilor  
Member, Ledyard Finance Committee  
Submitted remarks for the 6/11/25 Town Council Meeting to be included in the official record  
Comments for New Business Item #1  
First, I would like to apologize for not being able to be present tonight; I had prior familial  
arrangements and, quite honestly, I did not expect the budget process to continue into mid-June.  
Clearly, that is not the case, as the budget again failed at a second referendum, with 710 voters  
opposed, and 406 in support. Nearly the same margin of failure as the first referendum - in other  
words, not even close. I guess this shouldn’t be surprising given that municipal budgets have  
been failing at referendum in many surrounding municipalities.  
Regardless, per the town charter, it is now up the Town Council to establish a budget that  
represents the will of our constituents, who clearly are not willing to accept such a large increase  
in taxes. As you churn through debate tonight, I will remind everyone that this is the Town  
Council, and we are responsible for representing the town as a whole, not just a specific subset  
of the population of our town.  
In the interest of time, I won’t delve into the forensics as to how we got here, and instead focus  
on the path forward, using the current budget proposed at the second referendum, compared to  
the current years’ budget as a basis:  
I’ve broken out healthcare, recognizing that we don’t control those costs and so that we can have  
a fair comparison. Shockingly, as you can see, the General Government Operational budget is a  
net decrease from the current year, to the tune of about $62,281, or .3%. The BOE budget is still  
enjoying a 5.6% increase compared to last year, even with a $160,000 reduction from the initial  
proposed 25/26 budget.  
First, I would recommend not decimating the General Government with any additional cuts. In  
fact, I would strongly recommend restoring market rate salary adjustments (Based on the salary  
survey) to town department heads, amounting to $32,248. Note that this still puts the General  
Government Operational budget at $30,033 LESS than the current year, or a .1% reduction,  
essentially a net-zero change from the current year. An exceptional achievement by the Mayor  
and the Town Department heads. As I’ve stated in past meetings, recognizing these department  
heads - many of which have advanced education and bring a wealth of professional experience to  
the table - with competitive compensation will actually save the town money, as should the  
council proceed with not including market rate adjustments in the budget, I would fully expect  
affected department heads to seek employment in a town that appreciates what they bring to the  
table, requiring the town to seek - and train - replacements. This aligns with Councilor  
Rodriguez’ comments from the 2/22/23 Town Council Meeting where wage adjustments were  
discussed, where she stated, “if they do not hire qualified people that it would also cost the town  
money”, and she went on to note “that having qualified employees was an investment in the  
town.”  
I will also note that these market rate adjustments actually have been phased in over the last year,  
with the first two adjustments occurring in the current year’s budget, and the last three planned  
for this next year.  
Second, the BOE Operational Budget represents an increase of $2,137,419, which still consists  
of over $500,000 in programmatic improvements. According to the BOE’s presentation at the  
Town Meeting, these expenses are not related to contractual or inflationary increases and are  
additional expenses over and above what is required to maintain current services. These  
improvements also include several new full-time hires, which represent not just new current  
expens  
General Business  
* MOTION to set Fiscal Year 2025/2026 a Real Estate and Personal Property Mil Rate of 37.14;  
and a Motor Vehicle Mil Rate of 32.46.  
3.  
Moved by Councilor Brunelle, seconded by Councilor Buhle  
VO- 2TAEp6proved and so declared (Barnes, Dombrowski, not in favor)  
***POST MEETING NOTE***: 6/18/2025 Town Council Meeting: Real Estate and  
Personal Property Mil Rate was corrected to 37.14.  
XV. ADJOURNMENT  
Councilor Buhle moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry.  
VOTE:  
8 - 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m.  
_____________________________________  
Transcribed by Roxanne M. Maher  
Administrative Assistant to the Town Council  
I, S. Naomi Rodriguez, Chairman of the Ledyard Town Council,  
hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and  
correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Town Council  
Meeting held on June 11, 2025.  
____________________________________  
S. Naomi Rodriguez, Chairman  
DISCLAIMER:  
Although we try to be timely and accurate these are not official records of the Town.  
The Town Council's Official Agenda and final Minutes will be on file in the Town Clerk's  
Office.