741 Colonel Ledyard Highway

Ledyard, Connecticut 06339-1551

(860) 464-3203

TOWN OF LEDYARD

Town Council

council@ledyardct.org

Meeting Minutes

Chairman Kevin J.

Dombrowski

Regular Meeting

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

7:00 PM

Town Hall Council Chambers

In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex

Remote: Information noted below:

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301085

CALL TO ORDER

IC.hairman Dombrowski called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers,

Town Hall Annex Building.

Chairman Dombrowski welcomed all to the Hybrid Meeting. He stated for the members

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

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

Website - Granicus-Legistar Meeting Portal.

II.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

III.

Chairman Kevin Dombrowski

Councilor Bill Saums

Present:

Councilor Andra Ingalls

Councilor Gary Paul

Councilor Mary K. McGrattan

Councilor S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Tim Ryan

Councilor Whit Irwin

Councilor John Marshall

Excused:

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

None.

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

MINUTES

Ms. Minna DeGaetano, 10 Marla Avenue, Ledyard, noted the State Legislature’s proposed

Senate Bill 146 “The Act Increasing Uniform Assessment Rate for Property Tax”. She stated

should the Legislature approve this Bill that it would have an effective date of October 1,

2023. Therefore, she questioned whether the town’s residents would be hit with an increase

in the mil rate and an increase on the percentage of the assessed property value rate from

70% to 75%. She also questioned whether the Town Council has considered the provisions

of Bill 146 in their preparation of the Town’s Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Budget.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated the State Legislature had a number of proposed Bills that were being

considered. He explained an increase in the Assessment Rate would be similar to a

revaluation year, noting that when they see the Assessments Increase that they typically see

the Mil Rate go down. He stated this may be a ploy by the State because they were

considering Senate Bill 1240 - Mil Rate Tax Cap which would apply to all commercial and

industrial properties. He stated this proposed Bill would work similar to the car tax cap, noting

that the Mil Rate Tax Cap has been proposed for 31.25 mils, noting that Ledyard’s mil rate was

currently slightly over the proposed cap. He explained Bill 1240 called for the State to create a

New Revenue Sharing Account to cover the loss of revenues between the Mil Rate Tax Cap and

the Municipalities Mil Rate. Therefore, he stated increasing the Assessment Rate may be a

way to push the valuations below the cap so that the state could avoid having to pay out to

municipalities. He explained by the State increasing the Assessment Percentage Rate that it

would not impact their taxes. However, he stated if Senate Bill 1240 - Mil Rate Tax Cap were

to be approved that it would impact their taxes. He concluded by stating that he did not think the

State would implement Legislation that would impact towns mid-year, knowing that all the

Municipalities were doing their budget this time of year.

Councilor McGrattan noted per state statute Municipalities were required to approve a mil rate

by the fourth Monday in June. Therefore, she did not think the State would implement

something that would impact Municipalities’ Mil Rate after they have been set.

Chairman Dombrowski stated if the State were to approve such a Bill that it most likely not

become effective until the next fiscal year; even if the Bill was effective October 1st. He stated

to the Mayor’s point, changing what the taxes could be in the middle of the year would throw

every Municipality into turmoil. However, he stated he did not know the particulars of the Bill

Ms. DeGaetano mentioned this evening, noting that he did not know what Hartford’s

thoughts were or even if the proposed Bill would pass. He thanked Ms. DeGaetano for her

question.

Mayor Allyn stated the State Legislature would adjourn in June this year. Chairman

Dombrowski stated the town could reach out the Ledyard’s Delegation to obtain more

information regarding Ms. DeGaetano’s question pertaining to the status of Bill 145 “The

Act Increasing Uniform Assessment Rate for Property Tax”.

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Councilor Rodriguez noted a Drug Take Back Day was held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 in

Ledyard Center. She stated the program was sponsored by the Ledyard Police Department,

Ledge Light Health District, and Ledyard Prevention Coalition. She stated they had a good

response with people dropping off over 60 pounds of unused prescriptions, and unused over

the counter medications.

Councilor Rodriguez continued by commenting on the tragic accident that took place on

Friday, April 21, 2023 on the Groton-New London Gold Star Bridge. She offered her

condolences to the family of Wallace Joseph Fauquet III, who was the Oil Truck Driver who

lost his life in the accident. She started the Fauquet Family was well-known in Ledyard,

noting they were part of the Soccer Club. She stated that their hearts go out to the Family.

She stated it was a horrible tragedy, but that they saw the heroes in their communities that

day, acknowledging all those who responded to the accident. She went on to state that

unfortunately because of the impact to the traffic throughout the area, which included

moving traffic from one freeway to the other freeway, that there was another fatal accident.

She stated emergency vehicles and ambulances were having difficulty getting to the

accidents, noting that Life Star was called in. She thanked all of the First Responders, the

Police Departments, Fire Departments, Ambulances, and the overall community who reached

out during this tragedy.

Councilor Paul stated that he wanted to echo Councilor Rodriguez’s comments regarding the

tragic accident last Friday. He expressed his condolences to the family of Wallace Joseph

Fauquet III, noting that Walt worked for him at Spicer Oil for a short time. He addressed the

newspaper articles and on-line reports which talked about what a great guy Walt was. He

stated it was all true, noting that Walt was a great person, he loved his family, and his

community and he was a hard worker. He stated the Fauquet Family was part of their

community and he wanted to express his condolences to them.

Councilor Saums stated that he also echoed the comments of both Councilor Rodriguez and

Councilor Paul noting that it was well said. He noted the many people who have contributed

to the GoFundMe Page, stating that since Friday, over $150,000 has been donated, stating

that the goal was $100,000. He stated there was a lot of generosity in their community.

Chairman Dombrowski stated today was Administrative Professionals Day, and he thanked

Town Council Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher for her effort and all of her work

that she does t support the Town Council. He presented Ms. Maher with a bouquet of

flowers. Ms. Maher thanked the Town Council for their recognition, noting that she enjoyed

working for each one of them and that she sincerely appreciated their recognition and

thoughtfulness.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the following Town Council Minutes:

Public Hearing Minutes of April 12`, 2023

Regular Meeting Minutes of April 12, 2023

Public Hearing Minutes of April 17, 2023

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Rodriguez

VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Saums, Ingalls, Paul, McGrattan, Rodriguez, Ryan, and

Irwin

AYE:

Marshall

EXCUSED:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications List - April 26, 2023

Chairman Dombrowski stated a Communications List has been provided. He noted there

were no referrals listed.

REFERALS

XI.

COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS

Administration Committee

.1.

Councilor Ingalls stated although the Administration Committee has not met since the last

Town Council meeting they had few items on tonight’s Agenda.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee

.2.

Councilor Paul stated the Community Relations Committee met on April 19, 2023 and

continued to discuss the following: (1) Black History Month Event for 2024 - Councilor Paul

stated the Committee agreed that presenting the Awards and recognizing the work of the

kids who participated in the Essay and Poster Contest at a Town Council Meeting was a

positive event for the community; and they hoped that would continue. He stated the

Committee noted that some of the ideas they have discussed may not be right for local

government; or for a Community Relations Committee event. Therefore, he stated the

Committee would like to serve in a supportive role, and work to bring in some different

things next year; (2) Farmers Market Booths - Councilor Paul stated the Committee would

like to host three booths at the Summer 2023 Market as follows: (i) June 21, 2023 or July

19, 2023 - Mental Health Awareness featuring the following services: Brian Dagle Healing

Hearts Foundation; Home heating fuel through Thames Valley Council for Community

Action (TVCCA) and other assistance programs; Utilities - Electric/Water Assistance;

Homeowners Assistance program that provided no interest loans to help people replace

their furnace, roof or septic system, etc. Home meal delivery available for those who

cannot get out to grocery shop through Thames Valley Council for Community Action

(TVCCA); The Linda C. Davis Food Pantry located in Ledyard Center; United Way

located in Gales Ferry was a great resource; Connecticut’s Paid Family Medical Leave

Program; Police Department “Green and/or Blue Envelope” for drivers with Autism or

Hearing Impaired; (ii) August 20, 2023 - Library Services - Back to School -This would

also include a Bill Library Open House, Short Presentation, and Tour of the Library; (iii)

September 19, 2023 - First Responders - Home Town Heroes - Volunteer - To provide

information on how residents could volunteer. Councilor Paul stated that the Committee

would like to promote the many organizations and committees that are operated with

volunteers from the community. He stated that the Committee would like to invite the

following to attend their Booth that day: Representative from the Police Department;

Representative from the Ledyard Center Fire Company; Representative from the Gales

Ferry

Fire

Company;

Chairman

from

each

the

town’s

committees/commissions/boards.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

.3.

Councilor Saums stated the Finance Committee met on April 19, 2023 and he noted in

addition to the items on tonight’s Agenda that the Committee also had a motion on their

agenda to consider a bid waiver to STV Construction for the oversight of the school roof

projects. He stated because the Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC) was not

ready with an update, the Finance Committee took no action.

RESULT:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

.4.

Councilor Paul stated the LUPPW Committee has not met since the last Town Council Meeting.

He noted the LUPPW Committee’s next meeting was scheduled for May 1, 2023.

RESULT:

Water Pollution Control Authority

Councilor Saums stated the WPCA met on April 25, 2023 and addressed the following: (1)

Rate Increase - As required, the WPCA conducted a Public Hearing on April 25, 2023

regarding a proposed 4.5% rate increase for July 1, 2023; (2) Wastewater Sewer Pump -

Construction will begin on the Smith & Loveless skid mounted sewer pumps at the

Waste Water Treatment Plant on May 1, 2023; (3) Ledyard Center Sewer Line Extension

Project - After reviewing the Application Process for the CT Communities Challenge

Grant Program for both the Sewer Line Extension Project and for a Water Main on

Baldwin Hill Road, the WPCA determined that substantially more time would be

required to prepare the Application than expected. They concluded that the next round

should include assistance from an engineering firm due to the size and number of

estimates required. The Grant opened twice annually for applications. They also

discussed the possibility of a trail along an existing utility easement on Gallup Hill Road

as the route for the larger sewer line, which is planned as Phase III of the Sewer Line

Extension Project using ARPA Funds. If the utility easement could be used for the new

Sewer Line, the existing sewer line under Gallup Hill Road could be abandoned, and the

road would not need to be excavated; (3) Policy Manual - The WPCA Policy Manual was

under review for a number of policy updates. He credited Member Terry Jones for all his

work to maintain the Policy Manuel; (4) Multi Model Pathway - The Town still expected

a Spring, 2023 start for construction on the Multi-Model Pathway and Sewer Line

Extension. While many of the questions Groton Utilities posed have been resolved, there

is some question as to whether all of them have been addressed; (5) Booster Chlorination

Treatment System - The Department of Public Health (DPH) and Groton Utilities (GU)

recommended inactivating the Booster Chlorination Treatment System on Route 12;

because it was no longer used or needed. The WPCA agreed, noting that the Treatment

System had been used to sanitize water in the Route 12 main. However, with the

addition of the Holmberg Tank and the Regional Interconnection crossing under the

Thames River, there was enough water moving that it does not stagnate or require

additional chlorine; (6) WPCA Membership - Councilor Saums stated that Ledyard was

very fortunate in that this WPCA had in its ranks a financial person, several engineers, a

doctor of chemistry, an employee of a municipal water company, a former town council

chair, two other former town councilors (when the council was also the WPCA), two

planning commission members, and new members, as well as members with long

experience with the WPCA. He stated at their meeting last night that he commented with

all seriousness that this was the best WPCA ever.

RESULT:

Board of Education

Councilor Irwin stated the Board of Education met on April 19, 2023 and addressed the

following: (1) Proposed Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Budget - The Board was pleased with the

Public Hearing regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2023/2024 that was held on April 17,

2023; (2) Connecticut Nutrition Standards - Ledyard Public Schools would be meeting

the Connecticut Nutrition Standards. Everything sold in the schools included vending

machines and other groups that sell food products to the students would meet the

Standards. There would be an exemption for Events and the details were available on the

Board of Education website at: www.Ledyard.net <http://www.Ledyard.net>; (3) Tuition

and Facilities Rates for 2024 were set; (4) Board of Education changed their regular

meeting night from Wednesday to Tuesday.

Chairman Dombrowski stated in speaking with Board of Education Finance Committee

Chairman Mike Brawner they discussed the Board’s meeting date change, noting that it

would allow the Members of the Board of Education to attend Town Council meetings

and members of the Town Council to attend Board of Education meetings.

XII. REPORT OF THE MAYOR

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) MIS Technician - Mayor Allyn stated Mr.

Kirk Bryson was selected to fill the MIS Technician role, noting that he began work on April

17, 2023. He stated that Mr. Bryson would be working under MIS Director Justin Dube,

stating that the Department had a full complement; (2) Deer Strikes - Connecticut

Department of Energy & Environment Protection (DEEP) April 18, 2023 - Mayor Allyn

stated he and Police Chief Rich met with DEEP to discuss the 300% increase in deer strikes

that has occurred in Ledyard since September, 2022. He stated that he was looking for DEEP

to change the Management Zone from 12 to Zone 10 (Coastal Zone). Mayor Allyn stated

DEEP had some data sets and that they would continue to monitor this issue, and collect

more data before making a decision regarding the Management Zone; (3) Health Districts -

FDA Food Code - Mayor Allyn stated all the Eastern Connecticut Health Districts have

adopted the Food and Drug Administration’s Food Code. He stated the Food Code was a

three-year project, noting that since the COVD-19 Pandemic there were a lot more Outdoor

Dining opportunities. He stated under the FDA Food Code dogs were permitted to be outside

when people were dining outside. He stated Ledge Light Health District asked that the

public be made aware of this Food Code, noting that outdoor diners could experience having

a dog sitting at a table next to them; (4) New London - Groton Gold Star Bridge Accident -

April 21, 2023 - Mayor Allyn stated that he too expresses his deepest condolences to the

Fauquet Family, noting that Wallace Joseph Fauquet III, was a 1999 Ledyard High

School Graduate; (5) Police Department Chaplin Herman Pollard - Mayor Allyn stated

on April 22, 2023 Chaplin Pollard passed away. He stated Chaplin Pollard was a

wonderful man, noting that he served as Ledyard’s Police Department Chaplin for

decades. He stated the passing of Chaplin Pollard was a big loss for the Police

Department, the Town and the Country, noting that he was fantastic man; (6) Public Act

No. 21-58 “An Act Concerning Solid Waste Management” in accordance with

“Resolution Regarding Revenues Received from Beverage Container Surcharges” - Nip

Bottle Surcharge Disbursement - Mayor Allyn reported Ledyard received $13,048.20

from the Nip Bottle Surcharge. This equated to 260,964 nip bottles (17 nips bottles per

capita) sold in Ledyard during the past six-months. He stated that he would share the data

sheet with the Town Council. He stated Public Act No.21-58 (Nip Bottle Surcharge) has

not changed the littering of nip bottes on the roads. He stated on Earth Day (April 22,

2023) he picked-up about 35 nip bottles in cleaning up about one mile of road. He stated

the 35 nip bottles was not too bad, noting that he had cleaned up the same stretch of road

about six months earlier. However, he stated there were other roads in town that were

covered with nip bottles; (7) Senate Bill 1242 “Solid Waste Management Disposal” -

Mayor Allyn stated he attended a Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM)

meeting earlier today and received an update regarding Senate Bill 1242. He stated this

Bill would impose a $5.00 per ton surcharge for all waste that originated from your town. He

stated the State would use the surcharge money collected to annually haul 800,000 - 900,000

tons of waste out of Connecticut to landfills in Pennsylvania and Ohio, etc. He stated a Task

Force thru CCM was being formed to try to work with the State to develop other options. He

stated during the meeting they also discussed the removal of Organic Waste from the waste

stream, which would reduce the State’s overall waste tonnage. He stated Governor Lamont,

and the Legislature were working toward mandating the removal of Organic Waste from the

waste stream to become effective in 2028. He stated Southeastern Regional Resource

Recovery Authority (SCRRRA) already had a PILOT Program to remove the Organic Waste

from the waste stream which appeared to be working well. However, he stated because

removing Organic Waste from the waste stream would be considered a “change in service”

that the waste haulers would add a cost for new Organic Waste pick-up. He stated that they

would need to look at the metrics for all of these proposals; (8) Raised Bill 1213 “Pequot

Fund” - Mayor Allyn stated Raised Bill 1213 would increase the Pequot Fund disbursement

to all municipalities throughout the state to $139,380,000. He explained the original intent of

the Pequot Fund when it was implemented in 1993 was for the State to distribute 85% of the

revenues received from the Casino Gaming to the municipalities and that the State would

retain 15%. However, he stated last year the State retained 90% revenues and only

distributed 10% to the municipalities, noting over the years the State found a way to turn the

Program opposite from the original intent. He stated that he commended Senator Osten and

other who were working at turning this back around to the original intent of the Pequot

Fund. He stated the State has had surplus year after year, noting that this was a good

opportunity to make some of these things right with regard to their original intent; (9) Our

Lady of Lords Church - Hate Crime - March 11, 2023 - Mayor Allyn stated on April 25,

2023 an arrest was made regarding an incident in which a man who broke into and

defaced the catholic church by painting profanity and hate speech on the floor and on a

wall; (10) Ledyard Prevention Coalition April 25, 2023 Meeting - Mayor Allyn stated he

along with Councilor Rodriguez attended the Ledyard Prevention Coalition meeting at

which they discussed providing the Finance Committee with recommendations for the

use of the Opioid Settlement Funding. He stated one of the considerations was SERAC

located in Norwich. He noted this Organization that has replaced DARE (Drug Abuse

Resistance Education) along with others, noting that more information would be

forthcoming. He stated SERAC was a non-profit organization that provides services

regarding substance abuse, problem gambling, and mental health challenges. He stated

the Ledyard Prevention Coalition would most likely be ready to provide some

recommendations to the Finance Committee in June; (11) American Rescue Plan Act

(ARPA) Funding - Mayor Allyn stated he participated in a webinar today and learned that

the State would be distributing ARPA Funding that the Federal Government designated

for Senior Citizens Centers. He stated Ledyard would be receiving $29,000, noting that it

was based on a per capita allotment. He stated they had 18 months to designate the use of

the funding and that the funds needed to be spent by 2026; (12) Ledyard and Gales Ferry

Fire Companies - Mayor Allyn thanked both the Ledyard Center and Gales Ferry Fire

Companies for their Mutual Aide Support to other Fire Departments in the region. He

noted the Ledyard Center Fire Department went to a large 7- acre brush fire in Montville;

and the Gales Ferry Fire Department went to 750-acre fire in Exeter, Rhode Island. He

stated sixty-six agencies were involved in the Brush Fire from four different states

including as far away as Maine, and the National Guard. He stated that he received an

email from the Exeter Fire Chief in which he stated that he was overwhelmed that so

many Agencies, from four States, who have never trained, practices, or worked together

in the past, were able to work so seamlessly and effectively contain the 750-acre fire,

noting that they did not lose a single house. He stated following the Exeter, Rhode Island

fire the Gales Ferry Fire Department provided Mutual Aid at the Connecticut Scrap

Facility in Montville. He stated because all of the Fire Tanker Trucks in Hartford County,

including Ledyard Center and Gales Ferry Fire Departments, were being used at the

Scrap Facility fire that the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environment Protection

(DEEP) deployed about six of their Quick Strike Fire Units throughout Eastern Connecticut

to provide coverage. He noted one Quick Strike Fire Unit was deployed to the area of the

Preston Plains Park to provide coverage in Preston, Gales Ferry, and Ledyard Center in the

event something were to happen. He stated it was fantastic to see that all the training and

drills the Fire Departments and their Volunteers do came together as they anticipated and

worked properly. He stated although it was a terrible situation, it was good to see that during

a real event the drills and Departments came together as they have practiced; (13) 334

Colonel Ledyard Highway Property - Mayor Allyn stated the Land Survey was nearly

complete which would result in a Lot Line Adjustment. The only asbestos found on the

house was the black tar mastic that was used to bond between the chimney and the flashing

and he noted that it was being removed next week, He also noted that they have received a

quote for the Demolition of the structure/house.

Questions to the Mayor -

Councilor Rodriguez asked Mayor Allyn to repeat the following:

· Nip Bottle Surcharge Disbursement to Ledyard - Mayor Allyn stated the payment

received was $13,048.20.

Raised Bill 1213 “Pequot Fund” - Mayor Allyn stated the State had $139,380,000 to be

distributed to all of the 169 Towns based on the Pequot Fund Formula.

ARPA Funds for Senior Citizens Centers - Mayor Allyn stated the $29,000 that Ledyard

would be receiving would need to be designated within 18 months, and that the funding

had to be fully expended by December 31, 2026; or returned back to the Federal

Government.

Councilor McGrattan addressed Raised Bill No. 1213 “Pequot Fund” which would return

the program back to the original intent of the Pequot Fund when it was implemented in 1993

which required the State to distribute 85% of the revenues received from the Casino Gaming

to the Municipalities and that the State would retain 15%. She questioned whether this Bill

(1213) to properly disburse the Pequot Fund to the Municipalities was an attempt to satisfy

towns so that they could proceed with the Legislature’s proposal regarding the Taxation on

Indian Lands that would allow the Vendors doing businesses at the Casinos not to pay

property taxes to the Town. She stated in other words would the Municipalities get the

proper amount of money owed to them from the Pequot Fund in lieu of receiving property

taxes from the Vendors. Mayor Allyn stated the State Legislature was putting together a

Working Group which would involve both the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (MPTN)

Chairman Butler, and Mohegan Sun Tribe Chairman Gessner, Jr., Montville Mayor

McDaniel, himself and six members of the State Legislature. He stated the intent of the

Working Group would be to meet twice a month in Harford for six-months to report on and

discuss taxation issues on Indian Lands. He stated the Working Group would then write a

White Paper on what their feeling was on how this issue should be handled for the next

Legislation Session. However, he stated that he has expressed his concern to their

Legislators; stating that they should not try to legislate something that the Judicial Branch

has already unanimously passed as a judicial ruling. Mayor Allyn continued to explain that

the distribution of the Pequot Fund was based on a per capita formula, noting that he

struggled with this approach stating as an example that the town of Somers received about

150% more Pequot Funding than Ledyard, because all of the people incarcerated in the

Somers’ Prison were counted as part of their town’s population. He stated the people in the

prison were not people who were using services in the community. Councilor McGrattan

requested clarification, noting for this year Ledyard could continue to collect property taxes

from the businesses that were operating at the Casino. Mayor Allyn stated that was correct,

however, he stated this was the second consecutive year that this type of Legislation has

been proposed, which would undo both Montville’s and Ledyard’s ability to collect those

taxes.

Councilor Saums addressed the $29,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding that

Ledyard would receive specifically for the Senior Center. He stated the town had allocated

$160,000 to be used for the replacement of the Heating and Air Condition System (HVAC)

($155,000) and doors ($5,000) at the Senior Center. Therefore, he suggested that the town

apply the $29,000 ARPA Funding that they would be receiving toward these Projects, which

would free up $29,000 for cost overruns on other town ARPA Projects. Mayor Allyn stated

that Councilor Saums’ suggestion was a good approach.

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

None.

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

Administration Committee

MOTION to appoint Mr. Gary St. Vil (D) 2 Thompson Street, Ledyard as a Regular Member of

the Planning & Zoning Commission to complete a three (3) year term ending October 31, 2023

to fill a vacancy left by Mr. Awrach.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor McGrattan

Discussion: Councilor Ingalls stated Mr. St. Vil was currently serving as an Alternate Member

on the Planning & Zoning Commission. She stated Planning & Zoning Commission Chairman

Tony Capon indicated that Mr. St. Vil was serving well and he requested that Mr. St. Vil be

appointed as a Regular Member to fill the vacancy left by Mr. Awrach, noting that he was next

in seniority to be moved to a Regular Member. She addressed Minority Representation, noting

that the Regular Member Pool, now had 3 Democrats, and 2 Republicans.

VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Mary K. McGrattan

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Saums, Ingalls, Paul, McGrattan, Rodriguez, Ryan, and

Irwin

AYE:

Marshall

EXCUSED:

MOTION to approve a revised “Town of Ledyard Employee Handbook” as presented in the

draft dated March 23, 2023.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Irwin

Discussion: Councilor Ingalls stated that the Employee Handbook was last updated in the late

1990’s and that some of the content has become outdated. She stated this was a comprehensive

rewrite of the Employee Handbook, noting that it included Policies as an Appendix to the

Handbook, allowing for the Polices to be updated from time to time, as needed, without having

to rewrite the Employee Handbook.

Councilor Ingalls explained that there were Human Resources Guidance Documents that

provided direction as to what belonged in an Employee Handbook versus what belonged in an

Employee Contract. She stated if there was a discrepancy between the Employee Handbook and

a Labor Contract that the Labor Contract would supersede, noting the following statement was

included in the Employee Handbook:

“Employees represented by a Labor Union would be governed by the polices in their collective

bargaining agreement to the extent that they differ from the polices outlined in the Employee

Handbook.”

Councilor Saums commented on the amount of work involved to bring the Employee Handbook

up to date, and to make sure that it complied with all of the Labor Bargaining Contracts. He stated

that he suspected that this was the work of former Administrator of Human Resources Don

Steinhoff before he retired earlier this month.

Mayor Allyn stated former Finance Director Marcia Hancock undertook updating the Employee

Handbook, noting that she worked as a subcontractor during the last six-months, with the

oversight of Administrator of Human Resources Don Steinhoff. He stated because the Employee

Handbook was so old that an electronic version that they could edit was not available. He stated

because the Employee Handbook had not been updated since the 1990’s there were a number of

things that needed to be changed and were changed with this edition.

Councilor Saums stated when he first looked at the draft Employee Handbook he questioned

where the “track changes” were. However, he stated when he saw the 1990 version, which looked

like a photograph, he realized that the Employee Handbook was totally rewritten.

Chairman Dombrowski stated when the Administration Committee first reviewed the draft

Employee Handbook they had the same question regarding the “track changes”. However, he

stated it was difficult to red-line a document that was completely new.

VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Whit Irwin

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Saums, Ingalls, Paul, McGrattan, Rodriguez, Ryan, and

Irwin

AYE:

Marshall

EXCUSED:

MOTION adopt proposed amendments to Ordinance #100-016 (rev 1) “An Ordinance

Combining Parks And Recreation Commission and Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of

Ledyard” as contained in draft dated February, 8, 2023.

DRAFT: 1/11/ 2/8/2023

Ordinance: # 100-016 (rev 1)

AN ORDINANCE COMBINING

PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AND

SENIOR CITIZENS COMMISSION

FOR THE TOWN OF LEDYARD

Be it ordained by the Town Council of the Town of Ledyard there is hereby established a

“Parks, and Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission.

Section 1. Purpose

(a) The purpose of this Ordinance is to formally combine the Senior Citizens

Commission with the Parks and Recreation Commission in the Town of Ledyard.

herein, to be known as Ledyard Parks, and Recreation, Senior Citizens

Commission.

Combining the duties of the Town Committees/Commissions/Boards that have

similar interests into a single commission will provide a financial benefit to the

town as it will minimize administrative support by reducing the number of

Committees/Commissions/ Boards in town and provide services more effectively.

Combining the two Commissions will provide a financial benefit for Senior Citizens

programs because they would be eligible for funding under the Parks & Recreation

Capital Account Fund 203 (formerly Fund 8) established by Ordinance #200-009

“An Ordinance Providing for Transfer of Certain Revenue from Real Estate

conveyance Tax to Special Town of Ledyard Funds; and in accordance with

Ordinance #200-012 “An Ordinance Creating a Municipal Parks and Recreation

Capital and Non Non-Recuring Expense Fund for the Town of Ledyard.

(b) The purpose of Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission is to

provide services for the senior citizens within budgetary limits; and to provide

recreational programs for the general population and manage properties under the

administrative control of the Parks and Recreation Department.

Section 2. Authority and Establishment of Commissions

(a) Parks and Recreation Commission

Pursuant to the authority contained in Section 7-148, General Statutes of

Connecticut, there is hereby created a Parks and Recreation Commission for the Town

of Ledyard.

(b) Senior Citizens Commission

Pursuant to Chapter III, Section 4 of the Charter of the Town Ledyard, there is

hereby established a Senior Citizens Commission.

Pursuant to Chapter III, Section 4, of the Town Charter, commencing on the

nineteenth day after the effective date of this ordinance, the duties of the Senior

Citizens Commission of the Town of Ledyard as set forth in Ordinance #100-016, shall

be discharged in accordance with this Ordinance; and shall hereafter be known as the

Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission.

Section 3. Membership

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission shall consist of

seven (7) regular members and two (2) alternate members who shall be electors of the

Town of Ledyard and who shall hold no salaried municipal office.

Membership on any other Board, Commission or Committee of the Town of

Ledyard shall not preclude membership on the Ledyard Parks and Recreation and Senior

Citizens Commission.

In making the original appointments under this ordinance, the Town Council shall

designate three (3) members to serve for three (3) years, three (3) members to serve for

two (2) years; three (3) members to serve for one (1) year. Thereafter, vacancies shall be

filled for a three (3) year term.

Section 4. Terms of Appointment

The members of the Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission

shall be appointed for a three (3) year term by the Town Council.

Members shall commence to serve their terms immediately upon appointment and

shall serve until their successor has qualified or they have been reappointed or removed by

the Town Council.

As each of the terms of the members expire, the Town Council shall appoint a

successor for a term of three (3) years to fill each vacant position.

Any vacancy on the Commission other than by expiration of term shall be filled

for the unexpired portion of the term by the Town Council.

The Commission shall annually elect a Chairman and Secretary from its members.

In accordance with General State Statutes of Connecticut Section-1-225 a Regular

Meeting schedule shall be set and filed with the Town Clerk before January 31st; of the

coming year, and shall be a thirteen (13) month calendar; inclusive of January of the

following year. Special meetings may be called by a majority of the members of said

Commission.

Any member of the Commission who is absent from three (3) consecutive regular

meetings and any intervening duly called special meetings shall be considered to have

resigned from the Commission and the vacancy shall be filled as hereinbefore provided,

except that the Commission may vote to waive the requirements of the section in each

case where illness or other extenuating circumstances make it impossible for a member to

meet the attendance requirements of this section.

It shall be the responsibility of the Chairman of the Commission to notify the

Town Council when a member has not properly performed his/her duties.

Appointment and removal of any member of the Ledyard Parks and Recreation

and Commission Senior Citizens shall be as provided for in Chapter IV, Section 9, of the

Town Charter.

Section 5. Implementation

Within two weeks after the adoption date of this ordinance, all current members

of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the Town of Ledyard and the current

members of the Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of Ledyard shall indicate to

their respective chairman their desire to serve on the Ledyard Parks, Recreation and

Senior Citizens Commission.

The respective chairman shall thereafter report to the Town Council the desires

of their members. In addition, the respective chairman shall make recommendations to

the Town Council regarding present members to serve on the combined commission.

The Town Council shall appoint members to the Ledyard Parks, Recreation,

and Senior Citizens Commission no later than the effective date of the Ordinance.

Section 6 Responsibilities and Duties

1. To annually prepare a budget containing its estimates of expenses and revenues to

carry out its programs and the purposes of this Ordinance; and to submit the same to

the Mayor for inclusion in the annual budget of the Town of Ledyard. When

requested, and at least annually, the Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens

Commission shall make reports to the Town Council.

2. Shall adopt Rules of Procedure, and establish policies for programs and the operation

and use of facilities under the Commission’s jurisdiction.

3. To plan the development, improvement and expansion of park lands and recreation

facilities and other facilities under the Commission’s jurisdiction, including the

acquisition, erection, installation, improvement, and replacement of park or recreation

facilities and equipment.

4. To develop, establish, improve and coordinate recreational programs to benefit the

general population in the Town of Ledyard. Including nutrition, health, social

services, transportation and other concerns of Ledyard’s senior citizens.

5. To seek federal, state and private funds and may accept any money, gifts or

endowment and expend the same for its designated purpose, provided such conditions

does not remove any portion of the Commission from the control of the facilities or

programs; or in any manner limit the use of the facility or programs to further the

purpose of the Commission.

6. To engage such employees as assigned by the Mayor and other contractors hired by

the Town of Ledyard to provide programs and services, and to maintain facilities

under the Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission’s

administrative control and oversight within the budgetary limits of said Commission.

7. The Ledyard Parks, Recreation, and Senior Citizens Commission shall serve to

represent senior citizens at town meetings, before the Town Council or before its

committees, and if required before other organizations.

Section 7.

Severability

If any section, or part of a section, of this Ordinance shall be held by a court of

competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such holding shall not be deemed to invalidate the

remaining provisions hereof.

Section 8.

Cancellation and Amendment of Previous Ordinances

· This Ordinance amends Ordinance #100-016 “An Ordinance Establishing a Senior

Citizens Commission for the Town of Ledyard”.

· This Ordinance cancels and supersedes Ordinance #100-014 “An Ordinance

Creating A Parks and Recreation Commission for the Town of Ledyard”.

Section 9. Effective Date

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

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

Adopted by the Ledyard Town Council on: __________________

___________________________

Kevin J. Dombrowski, Chairman

Approved / Disapproved on: ___________

___________________________

Fred Allyn, III, Mayor

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Revisions:

Parks and Recreation Commission

Ordinance #12 “Ordinance Creating a Parks and Recreation Commission for the Town of

Ledyard” Adopted by Town Meeting December 11, 1967; Ordinance #12 “Ordinance

Creating a Parks and Recreation Commission for the Town of Ledyard” Amended and

Adopted December 22, 1972; Ordinance # 137 “An Ordinance Amending an Ordinance

Creating A Parks and Recreation Commission for the Town of Ledyard” adopted on

October 22, 2014; Renumbered Ordinance #137 to #100-014 on September 25, 2019 as

part of the Twenty-fourth Town Council 2017-2019 Ordinance Update Initiative

Project.

Senior Citizens Commission

Ordinance #58 “An Ordinance Establishing a Permanent Commission for Senior Citizens

for the Town of Ledyard,” adopted on September 28, 2011 and overrode the Mayor’s

disapproval/veto on October 12, 2011. Ordinance #147 “An Ordinance Amending an

Ordinance Establishing a Senior Citizens Commission in the Town of Ledyard” adopted

December 13, 2017; Renumbered Ordinance #134 to #100-016 on September 25, 2019

as part of the Twenty-fourth Town Council’s 2017-2019 Ordinance Update Initiative

Project.

History:

2023: Ordinance #100-014 “An Ordinance Creating A Parks and Recreation Commission

for the Town of Ledyard” adopted on October 22, 2014; and Ordinance #100-106 “An

Ordinance Establishing a Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of Ledyard were

combined. The duties of both Commissions remained in place and some minor editorials

were made throughout the document creating a Parks and Recreation and Senior Citizens

Commission.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Rodriguez

Discussion: Councilor Ingalls stated that combining the Parks & Recreation Commission with

the Senior Citizens Commission has been discussed for quit sometime. She stated combining

these two Commissions was a good move.

Chairman Dombrowski stated a Public Hearing was held on April 12, 2023 at which public

comments were received regarding amendments to Ordinance #100-016 (rev 1) “An Ordinance

Combining Parks And Recreation Commission and Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of

Ledyard”.

It was noted that the Parks & Recreation Department moved from the building on Blonders

Boulevard to the Senior Citizens Center on Van Tassel Drive, Gales Ferry, in 2020; and have

since been sharing staff and resources between the two Offices. The adoption of the amendments

to Ordinance #100-016 (rev 1) “An Ordinance Combining Parks And Recreation Commission

and Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of Ledyard” would complete this merger,

streamline daily operations, provide financial and space benefits, as well as support additional

programs and events.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated Parks & Recreation Chairman Kenneth DiRicco was present this

evening if anyone had questions.

VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Saums, Ingalls, Paul, McGrattan, Rodriguez, Ryan, and

Irwin

AYE:

Marshall

EXCUSED:

Finance Committee

MOTION to accept and appropriate $20,000 to Account #20250101-50000-G0015 (Library

Grants) received from The American Library Association - Libraries Transforming

Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities Grant to be used to purchase books,

programming, and building improvements designed to serve individuals with disabilities.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated at their December 14, 2022 meeting the Town Council

authorized the Library to apply for a 20,000 American Library Association - Libraries

Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities Grant to be used to

purchase books, programming, and building improvements designed to serve individuals with

disabilities.

Councilor Saums stated tonight’s action was to appropriate the funding to the proper account so

they could be expended as intended. He noted Library Director Jennifer Smith was attending

remoting this evening if anyone had questions.

Library Director Jennifer Smith she received notification on April 5, 2023 that Ledyard was

awarded the Grant in the full amount of the $20,000 requested. She stated as part of this grant

process that the Legislative Body (Town Council) was required to formally accept the Grant and

authorize the expenditure of the funds by May 5, 2023. She stated that she would be happy to

elaborate if anyone had questions.

Mayor Allyn, III, commended Library Director Jennifer Smith noting that she joined Ledyard

last summer (2022). He stated Ms. Smith came out of the gate pursuing grant opportunities,

noting that she secured the maximum amount allotted under this grant program. He thanked Ms.

Smith for her efforts.

VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared

MOTION to adopt a proposed Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Budget in the amount of $64,540,940

comprised of:

General Government: $28,632,572

Board of Education: $35,908,368

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated tonight’s meeting packet included a spreadsheet with the

budget reductions that the Finance Committee made at their April 19, 2023 meeting.

Councilor Saums stated with these budget reductions the proposed Mil Rate to support the Fiscal

Year 2023/2024 Budget was reduced from a projected 1.09 mil rate increase, as presented at the

April 17, 2023 Public Hearing, to a 0.74 mil rate increase. He stated these adjustments were a

significant reductions and were not taken lightly.

Councilor Saums went on to explain the reductions in the Healthcare Expenses was a result of

changing from the current CT State Partnership 2.0 Plan (7% increase) to United Healthcare

(3%). He stated changing healthcare plans required a lot of work for both the General Government

and the Board of Education, noting that they had to work with all of the affected unions, explaining

that per their Labor Agreements that the Town has to provide a healthcare plan that was equal to; or

better than the one they currently had.

Councilor Saums continued by addressing the budget reductions for the Ledyard Public Health

Nursing. He explained that the Finance Committee has discussed Ledyard Public Health Nurse

Budget at length throughout this year’s budget preparation, as they have done during the past few

year’s budget preparation cycles. He stated the reason they were discontinuing the Ledyard Visiting

Nurses was not because they do not want it; or they do not think it was a good thing. He stated they

think the Ledyard Visiting Nurses (LVNA) was a great thing; however, he stated including

employee health benefits that the town has been losing money to provide the LVNA services since

the 2018 fiscal year; and that these loses have gone up every year. He stated this year the loses were

significant enough that it would have affected the town’s mil rate, and the town’s ability to pay. He

stated the Finance Committee and the entire Town Council appreciated the work that the LVNA has

done over the years, noting that they were one of the Top 25 Visiting Nurse Agencies in the country.

He stated the reason the LVNA was not returning money to the town, as they once did, was because

large healthcare organizations control where patients were receiving their home healthcare services

from, explaining that they do not tell people that they had a choice. He stated as much as the town

has tried to get the word out to residents that the patient has a choice in the selection of their home

healthcare provider, and that they can ask for the LVNA to call on them, that the patients were

receiving services from elsewhere. He stated this trend has been going on for years; and that they

were sorry that this has been the case. He stated they appreciated all that the LVNA has done over

the years, including the work of Nursing Director Karen Goetchuis.

VOTE:

8 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Andra Ingalls

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Saums, Ingalls, Paul, McGrattan, Rodriguez, Ryan, and

AYE:

Irwin

Marshall

EXCUSED:

General Business

Discuss Work Session Items as time permits.

None.

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Rodriguez moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Paul

VOTE: 8 - 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

_______________________________

Transcribed by Roxanne M. Maher

Administrative Assistant to the Town Council

I, Kevin J. Dombrowski, 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 April 26, 2023.

________________________________________

Kevin J. Dombrowski, Chairman