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, February 28, 2024

7:00 PM

Town Hall Council Chambers

In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex

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CALL TO ORDER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

II.

III.

Councilor April Brunelle

Councilor Jessica Buhle

Councilor Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

Councilor Gary Paul

Present:

Chairman S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Tony Saccone

Councilor Gary St. Vil

Councilor Kevin Dombrowski

Councilor Tim Ryan

Excused:

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

Rabbi Marc E. Ekstrand, Temple Emanu-El; Waterford, Connecticut

Chairman Rodriguez stated in November 2023 she had a conversation with Dr. Adrienne

Parad who lives in Ledyard, during which time she asked Dr. Parad questions regarding

certain statements and chants. She noted that Dr. Parad kindly told her what the statements

and chants meant and how she felt as a Jewish woman and the experiences that her children

were having in the school system. She noted that Dr. Parad informed her that Rabbi Ekstrand

had come to a past Town Council meeting in 2020 to discuss Anti-Semitism when a

Swastika was found spray painted in our town. Chairman Rodriguez told Dr. Parad that it

would be a good idea for Rabbi Ekstrand to give an updated presentation to the Town

Council in light of what her children were experiencing. She stated that she and Dr. Parad

were in contact with each other during the past couple of months and Rabbi Ekstrand chose

the Town Council’s February 28, 2024 meeting to give his presentation. She welcomed

Rabbi Marc E. Ekstrand, of Temple Emanu-El; Waterford, Connecticut, to tonight’s

meeting, noting that she looked forward to hearing his presentation

Rabbi Ekstrand thanked Chairman Rodriguez and the Town Council for having him at their

meeting this evening, noting that he recognized some members of the Town Council from his

last visit. He stated that he has come to Ledyard many times, noting that although he enjoyed

coming to Ledyard, that he did not enjoy having to talk about the subject of Anti-Semitism

and how it affects the Jewish community. He stated his Congregation Temple Emanu-El has

members from the Connecticut River north to past the Rhode Island border, noting that

there were quite a few members who reside in Ledyard. He stated when he attended the

Town Council’s February 12, 2020 meeting it was to speak about a particular incident that

had occurred. However, he stated during that intervening time that he visited the Ledyard

Middle School, and that he has been listening to his congregants and hearing about their

experiences, noting that during the past couple of years there has been a steady state of

Anti-Semitism. He stated since October 7, 2023 when there was the terrible situation in the

country of Israel that Anti-Semitism has peaked, not only here in Southeastern Connecticut

but throughout our nation and around the world. He stated this Anti-Semitism has your

friends and neighbors fearful and nervous about their safety and the safety of their children in

school. He commended Middle School Principal Ryan Earley for being open to discussion

and for the positive actions he has taken to has change this situation in the school, noting that

he has been a good partner, but that there was still work to be done. He provided a pamphlet

from T’ruah which was the Rabbinic call for Human Rights, noting that they published a

brief guide on Anti-Semitism. He noted there was often confusion regarding what

Anti-Semitism was; and what Anti-Semitism was not, and he provided some history

regarding Anti-Semitism, noting examples of both. However, he stated the most

recent/prevalent was associating all Jews with the actions and things that were going on in the

State of Israel. He stated most of the Jew’s we encounter in our communities are not Israeli

Citizens, noting that there might be one or two who have dual citizenship; or there might be

an Israeli or two who might be living in the United States on a long-term basis. However, he

stated most Jews in our communities were citizens of the United States, just like you, and

their loyalty was to this country. He stated tying things that were going on half aworld away

was placing criticisms on people who have nothing to do with those issues.

Rabbi Ekstrand continued by addressing the notion that all Jews were liberal and were

constantly fighting against conservative values. He stated this notion was not true, noting

the whole political spectrum was represented in his congregation Temple Emanu-El. He

stated this made it interesting in delivering sermons, noting that he has to walk the tight

rope of political ideals. He stated the way he does that was to talk about values, noting

that we all care about the safety of our communities, we all care about educating our

children, we all care about uplifting our communities, economic development, and he

noted that these were not a right-left-conservative-liberal thing. He stated these values

were being a citizen of the Town of Ledyard, being a citizen of the State of Connecticut,

being a citizen of the United States, its being a member of the community.

Rabbi Ekstrand went on to talk about the most common form of Anti-Semitism right now,

which was the issues that surrounded Israel and Palestine. He explained that the following

were potentially Anti-Semitism things that might come up during conversations or in things

that people might see: (1) Portraying Israel as an ultimate evil or grossly exaggerating its

actual influence in the world - Rabbi Ekstrand stated Israel was a tiny nation, however, it gets

a lot of Press. He stated Israel’s influence was not as big as some make it out to be. He stated

Israel has done some wonderful things for the world, but that it also had its problems just like

any other nation; (2) Holding Jews collectively responsible for Israel’s conduct; (3) Treating

Jews as agents of Israel, simply because they were Jewish; (4) Referring to Jews as Zionists,

when they really mean Jew; (5) Denying Jewish history, denying that they have a connection

to the land of Israel; (6) Claiming that today’s Jews were not real Jews; (7) Claiming that

Jews’ presence in the land of Israel was colonist endeavors. He stated that all these things

were not true, were Anti-Semitic, and had no place in our conversations.

Rabbi Ekstrand also talked about what was not Anti-Semitic and were perfectly reasonable

as follows: (1) To criticize or be opposed to the idea of Zionism; (2) Support arrangements

that call for the full equity of both Israelis and Palestinians; (3) Calling for a two-state

solution; or one-state solution; or binational state; (4) Being concerned for Palestinians who

live in the occupied territory, or Gaza; and pointing out their terrible situation; (5) Calls for

non-violence protests against the things that were happening in Israel, including boycotts; and

divestment in sanctions; (6) They should be careful not to create double standards, where

they hold one group of people to a higher standard than they hold other people to; or that

they hold other nations to; or even to ourselves. However, he stated holding Israel to some

standards was not Anti-Semitic. Rabbi Ekstrand stated all of these things were only criticism

and were based on evidence of the things that were actually going on in Israel, noting in his

opinion that they were not Anti-Semitic, however, he stated that there was some controversy

about these things. He stated these things were all part of the discourse that they should be

having about important issues that were going on in the world.

Rabbi Ekstrand noted that he was concerned about all minorities, noting that he had

friends that were Islamic and Palestinian. He stated Jews and other Minorities were no

different than you and that they should be recognized as your friends and neighbors. He

stated Jews and other Minorities concerns and interests were largely the same as your

concerns, noting that they wanted to make our communities a welcoming, wonderful,

successful place to live, where everyone was safe, and where every citizen felt valued. He

stated this could be achieved by welcoming Jews and other Minorities into their

communities. He stated that Ledyard has done that in a lot of ways, noting evidence of

that was inviting him to speak at tonight’s Town Council Meeting, or his audience with

the Middle School Principal, and being invited to give an Invocation at a Veterans Day

event in Ledyard. He suggested that Ledyard and other communities continue to do these

types of things. He suggested communities find ways to uplift all minorities, whether it be

recognizing their holidays in some way, or asking them to do culturally significant things

in their community, and to let people know what they were about and to understand their

traditions, etc.

Rabbi Ekstrand stated the Town Council’s business was to make their local community

the best it could be. He stated there would be people who would be asking the Town

Council to make statements about things that were going on in the much wider world,

about things that were going on with Israel, Hamas, and with the Palestinians. He stated

there were places to make those statements. However, he suggested the place to make

those statements was not here at the Local Level. He stated the right place to make those

statements would be at the Federal Level. He noted those who are involved in

government at any level know making statements at the local level was not their job,

noting that it occurred at the Federal level. He stated the State Department was in charge

of the Administration of Foreign Policy for our Nation, noting that they were experts on

that; and that we should leave that work to them. He asked the Town of Ledyard to resist

the call to make statements regarding this matter. He stated by doing so would not mean

that the Town does not care about Palestinians or Israelis. He stated that they would be

recognizing that there was a higher level of government, which was the on the national

level, stating that was their job and they had the expertise to do that. He stated that did

not mean that they cannot have opinions as individuals, noting that as citizens of the

world that we should have opinions. However, he stated we should place the

responsibility to make those statements about what they would like Israel to do; or not

do; or what we would like to see for the Palestinian people, to the people in Washington

D.C. in the State Department.

Rabbi Ekstrand concluded his remarks by thanking the Town Council for having him this

evening. He stated that he deeply appreciated being invited for a second time and that he

was a resource for them. He stated should the Town Council like to discuss how to uplift

minority in their community; or specific Anti-Semitic Incidents that he was available to

help. He stated people listen and respect their Elected Officials and what they say

matters. He noted that there were other organizations in Southeastern Connecticut who

were also available and allies to help such as the Jewish Federation of Eastern

Connecticut; the Antidefamation League; and the Jewish Community.

Chairman Rodriguez thanked Rabbi Ekstrand for his insightful presentation. She stated

for a small community such as Ledyard, that we can learn from each other so that we can

coexist with respect and understanding for all, as a community should. She again thanked

Rabbi Ekstrand for taking time out of his busy schedule for the Town of Ledyard.

RECEIVED AND FILED

RESULT:

Board of Education proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget

Chairman Rodriguez noted that the Board of Education submitted its proposed Fiscal Year

2024/2025 Budget to the Mayor’s Office on Monday, February 26, 2024 in accordance with

Chapter VII; Section 4 of the Town Charter. She invited Board of Education Finance

Committee Chairman Joanne Kelley to present the Board of Education’s proposed budget

this evening.

Board of Education Finance Committee Chairman Joanne Kelley stated before she began her

presentation that she wanted to thank Rabbi Ekstrand for his comments this evening. She

stated it was gratifying to hear that Ledyard’s Middle School Principal was welcoming,

open to speaking with Rabbi Ekstrand, and was doing the right things for their students.

Ms. Kelley thanked the Town Council for the opportunity to present the Board of

Education’s proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget this evening in the amount of

$38,369,823; noting that this was an increase of $2,461,455or 6.85% over the current year’s

budget.

Ms. Kelley stated the proposed budget was a result of a careful and methodical budget

process which showed that the Board of Education continued to be good stewards of the

resources allocated to them. She stated the PowerPoint Presentation would illustrate that

over 90% of the proposed budget increase reflected contractual obligations, inflationary

increases for existing line items, and other non-negotiable obligations such as State

Mandates for programing. She noted as Superintendent Hartling stated in his Budget

Transmittal Letter that the Board of Education’s proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget

primarily funded the status quo.

Ms. Kelley stated the Board of Education believed that the proposed Fiscal Year

2024/2025 in the amount of $38,369,823 supported the following:

· The critical and increasing needs relative to the academic achievement with the

continuation of a year long implementation of a multi-tiered system of targeted

intervention to address the persistent failure to meet grade level learning expectations in

Literacy and Math.

· It recognizes and takes on critical mental health needs for our children in a

school-based student centric environment.

Ms. Kelley stated the mental health crisis in our schools was not only a Ledyard problem,

noting as everyone was aware. However, she stated that Ledyard was taking some

meaningful steps to address it in the upcoming proposed budget.

Ms. Kelley began her presentation of the Board of Education’s Fiscal Year 2024/2025

Budget by providing an overview of their Mission Statement as follows:

v Mission Statement

“Ledyard Public Schools provides every child with the experiences, support, and

opportunism necessary for life and success in our diverse and evolving world.”

v Values

Ms. Kelley noted the Board of Education’s Values were part of their upcoming Strategic

Plan:

Ø Belonging

Ledyard’s Schools promote and instill a sense of belonging for all by creating a safe,

caring, respectful environment where diversity is acknowledged, encouraged, and

celebrated.

Ø Partnerships

Ledyard’s Schools reflect the beliefs, values, and aspirations of the community and

are most successful when true partnerships exist within and beyond our schools.

Ø Learning

Ledyard’s Schools provide multiple opportunities within and outside the classroom

for rigorous and relevant learning experiences that allow students to develop and

pursue their passions.

Ø Critical Thinking

Ledyard’s Schools encourage students and staff to ask questions, explore, and

persevere, to advance understanding, and solve problems.

Ø Achievement

Ledyard’s schools support students to achieve academically, socially, and

emotionally, while developing the skills necessary for learning and success

throughout one’s lifetime.

v Increasing Needs of Students

Ms. Kelley stated the demand for programming, intervention, and other support would

not disappear anytime soon. She reviewed the “General State of Connecticut Indications

for At- Risk Students” noting the following percentages:

· 19% Special Education Students

· 32% Students receiving Free and Reduced Lunch Program

· 2% Language acquisition - English Language Learners

Blue Metric - Illustrated the work Ledyard has done to stabilize the increase of needs by

appropriately identifying their students and providing them with the services that would

eventually allow them to exit out of the special education program if appropriate.

Orange Metric: Illustrated the Free or Reduced Lunch population which was over 30%

for this current school year. The State of Connecticut and Federal Government used the

Free or Reduced Lunch population to measure the level of poverty in the community.

v Per Pupil Expenditures

Ms. Kelley presented the Per Pupil Expenditure Graph noting that Ledyard continued to

be in the lowest 10% of Connecticut’s 169 towns. She noted Ledyard’s Per Pupil

Expenditure at $16,871 was the lowest in our area, noting as a comparison that

Waterford’s Per Pupil Expenditure was $21,235.

Ms. Kelley provided a Comparison of School Districts Relative to Support which provided a

breakdown of the Per Pupil Expenditures. She stated that Ledyard continued to have the

highest Student per Adult Ratio noting that Ledyard’s ratio was 7.5 students to one Adult,

compared to Norwich which had 4.4 Students per Adult. She explained the student to adult

ratio data included the following:

· Certified Student Support

· Certified General Education

· Para-Professionals

· Other

v Budget Priorities

Ms. Kelley stated the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Education Budget addressed the

following priorities:

· Continue the evolution of literacy and numeracy instruction and the ongoing

profession growth of our educators.

· Continue enhancements and evolution of the Interventionist Model.

· Continue to address and ameliorate achievement gaps and the number of students

below basic on the Smarter Balanced Assessment Chart (SBAC)

v Key Changes

Ms. Kelley reviewed the following Key Changes:

· $150,000 Savings related to three (3.0) known teacher retirements (Full-Time

Teachers would be retained).

· Increase Substitute Teacher wages from $100 to $125 per day; and to provide an

additional 10% coverage - Ms. Kelley explained at $100 per day that Ledyard was

paying the lowest rate for substitute teachers in the area, noting that they were not

able to get the substitute teachers when needed. However, she stated increasing the

substitute teacher wages to $150.00 would not necessarily solve that problem.

· Increase Multi-tiered Support Systems (MTSS) with the addition of a Full-time

Coordinator - Ms. Kelley stated the Board of Education added a Full-time

Coordinator for the MTSS, noting that they needed the additional position last year,

but they put it off a year. She explained the Coordinator would help to expand their

Interventionist Programs that had been bolstered by the Department of Defense

Education Agency Grant funding (DoDEA). She stated the Interventionist Programs

were essential to meet the increased needs of their students who were requiring

targeted interventions to meet grade level learning expectations. She explained that

the MTSS Program has been implemented over several years ( 6 - 7 years) with

incremental additions of Interventionists in their Schools System. She stated they

now have baseline coverage with Literacy and Math Interventionist in each school

building. She stated the final piece of the MTSS was the addition of the Coordinator,

who would proactively assess students for what was needed, coordinate the targeted

interventions, monitor progress, and making data driven decisions on how to best

intervene for each individual student.

· Compliance with State “Right to Read Program” Requirements - Ms. Kelley

explained that this was a State Mandated Curriculum. She stated The Board of

Education attempted to obtain a waiver, because they believed that their curriculum

met all of the requirements of the Right to Read Program. However, she stated the

State has only approved specific curriculum packages for the Program. Therefore, she

stated like many other schools that Ledyard would continue to seek waivers, noting

that in the meantime it was going to cost Ledyard about $200,000 to implement the

Right to Read Program to comply with the unfunded mandate.

· Add Teacher at Middle School to reduce classroom overcrowding - Ms. Kelley

explained this would add a Family Consumer Science Teacher.

· Add Social Worker at the Middle School to replace an outside provider - The

Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant (ESSR) funding would end

in 2024. This was a critical position to their Mental Health Team.

· Clinical Supervision - Ms. Kelley stated this position would complete their

school-based Student Centrix Mental Health Team. She noted that this area was

critical and as she mentioned earlier this evening mental health was not only a

Ledyard issue.

· Literacy Interventionist - Ms. Kelley stated the addition to the Literacy Interventionist

would be the final complement to the Literacy Team.

· $75,000 Savings with the Elimination of “Over the River” choice transportation - Ms.

Kelley stated the elimination of the choice transportation was due to the decrease in

grant funding and a reduction in ridership.

v Budget Expenditures

Ms. Kelley provided an overview of the Budget Expense Breakdown as follows:

· 72.4 % Salary and Wages

· 3.1% Utilities

· 3.1 % Supplies

· 1.2% Special Education

· 6.8% Transportation

· 2.2% Purchases Property Services

· 3.0% Professional Technology

· 2.2% Insurance and Benefits (This does not

include Healthcare costs. The healthcare costs are

carried on the General Government side

of the Ledger)

v Inflationary Budget Adjustments

Ms. Kelley noted that inflation has impacted the Board of Education’s expenses

specifically Transportation and Energy costs, which have put a stress on the Education

budget. She reviewed the breakdown of the Inflationary Budget Adjustments as follows:

· Budget Increases:

Ø Salary Increases

$983,842

Ø Inflationary Adjustments:

ü Transportation/Utilities

ü Services

$407,900

$155,267

ü Year 1 State Mandated Reading Curriculum

$100,000

· Total Increases:

$1,735,293

· Budget Decrease/ Savings:

Ø Budget Reductions/Savings

ü Teacher Retirements

$105,000

$532,105

ü Other Budget Requests

· Total Budget Savings:

$637,105

v Unbudgeted District Needs

Ms. Kelley stated as they have been doing for the past several; years the Board of

Education has continued their “Needs Assessment” activities with the Administrators of

each school to prioritize their request and needs. She stated although many of items in

the yellow area were important, that they: (1) May not be able to secure funding; (2) May

not be able to secure staffing; or (3) May not have the structure in place to fully utilize

the program.

Ms. Kelley stated the District Requests in Red were needs that have been identified;

however, they recognize that they most likely would not be included in Ledyard’s Education

Budget for the foreseeable future.

v Projected Revenues:

Ms. Kelley explained that the Board of Education’s Projected Revenue were estimates of

what they expected as follows:

· 61.7% Town Appropriation (Tax Revenue) an increase of 2.7% over the current year.

· 31.0% Education Cost Sharing - A slight decrease in ECS Funding in the amount of

0.7% from the current year.

· 2.7 % Federal Impact Aid - Ms. Kelly explained for Fiscal Year 2022/2023 they

projected Impact Aid to come in at $1,500,000. However, the actual amount came in

higher than projected at $1,558,207. She noted that the Board of Education has been

working to maximize the Impact Aid by trying to increase awareness in the value of

completing the request forms to identify eligible families. However, she noted these

revenues were projected estimates.

· 4.2% Agri-Science - slight decrease of 0.2 % from the current year.

· 0.3% Non-Resident Tuition - slight decrease of 0.3 % from the current year.

· Enrollment

Ms. Kelley stated although Ledyard’s enrollment oscillated slightly from year to year,

that it was typically steady with a total enrollment between 2,400 - 2420, with the

exception of the 2020/2021 School year because of the Covid-19 Pandemic, noting that

their enrollment dropped with many students being homeschooled.

Ms. Kelley went on to explain that the Enrollment was only one data point of many that

impacted their budget. She stated with seeing all of the new three-to-four-bedroom

homes being constructed in Ledyard that she anticipated that they would see some growth

with the school’s enrollment numbers.

Ms. Kelly noted number of students per class, stating that there was not much change.

Ms. Kelley stated that she was excited about the Board of Education’s proposed Fiscal

Year 2024/2025 Budget in the amount of $38,369,823 because it would provide critical

resources to meet their students’ needs. She stated that she has had children in Ledyard

Public Schools for over forty years, noting her youngest child was 7-years old when her

first grandchild was born. She stated that she currently had a High School Senior and a

grandchild who was attending the Pre-K program. She stated during the past 7-years,

with the support of the Board of Education Central Office Administration and the support

of the Town Council that the Ledyard Public Schools has come so far in what they offer

their students. She stated about five-years ago in speaking with a Specialist about a

family member who needed some support in school that the Specialist suggested she get

the student into another school because they would not get the type of support they

needed from the Ledyard School System. Ms. Kelley stated that this was very

disheartening because she loved Ledyard Schools, noting she educated all of her kids

here. She stated that she could have moved to any town, noting there was nothing

holding her to Ledyard. However, she stated the reason she has stayed in Ledyard was

because of the schools, and she commented that she believed most people come to

Ledyard because of their schools.

Ms. Kelley continued by noting that she hears residents say that they pay a lot of money

in taxes and yet question why the students test scores were not that good, or why Ledyard

Schools were not top notch when they look at the List of School Ratings. Ms. Kelley

stated although they do pay a lot in taxes that Ledyard has always funded their Schools at

a low level. However, she stated it was not just about money, explaining that the

commitment that has been made to their students over the past 6-7 years to improve

outcomes in literacy, numeracy, social and emotional areas has been phenomenal. She

stated this work was not done overnight, stating that they have incrementally done a lot.

She stated that Ledyard was now on parity with a lot of schools in our area, that they

were not measuring up to 5-6 years ago. She stated that they were already seeing

improvement in test scores, noting that previously they had been persistently not reaching

grade level. She stated that they owed Ledyard taxpayers a quality performing School

District, noting that she believed that they were getting there. She stated that she realized

that a 6.85% education budget increase was high for this town. She stated that in the

upcoming budget year the Board of Education would be providing an Interventionist and

the MTSS Coordinator, stating the reason they were not included in the current year’s

budget (fy 23/24) was because the Board of Education was mindful of the budget number

and they brought the education budget in with a 3.92% increase, when towns all around

Ledyard were coming in with much higher budget increases. She asked that the Town

Council average the education budget increase from the current year and the upcoming

year, noting that she believed that the Board of Education’s Fiscal Year 2024/2025

Budget was fair and reasonable and it would get Ledyard Public Schools to where they

needed to be. She stated that there were plenty of other things the Board of Education

would like to see happen, noting that what they have included in the proposed Fiscal

Year 2024/2025 Budget would make a significant difference for their students. She stated

to put any of their requests off would be a disservice to the students.

The Town Council, Board of Education Finance Committee Chairman Joanne Kelley,

and Superintendent of Schools Jason Hartling discussed the following in further detail:

Clinical Mental Health Supervisor would oversee 8-Staff members (4 Clinical Social

Workers and 4 Psychologists). School Districts were taking on a larger role in the mental

health aspect of their students’ growth. Ledyard’s Social Workers were Licensed Clinical

Social Workers who deliver mental health services.

Federal Impact Aid Revenue $1,050,000 was based on the number of students that the

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (MPTN) certified were living on tribal land. The

Federal Impact Aid goes directly to the Town of Ledyard; and was not managed by the

Board of Education. The funds were treated as a “Pass-thru”; the Town’s Finance

Director and the Board of Education’s Finance Director worked together to manage the

Federal Impact Aid funding and move the funds from the Town to the Board of

Education’s expenditures. The grant funding was drawn down from the specific grant

account to directly off-set a portion of the expenditures associated with each pupil.

Ledyard’s per pupil cost was $16,871, and the Federal Government was providing the

town $4,050 to off-set those per pupil costs.

Utilities Electricity Increase $407,900 the current rate was favorable and would carry

into December, 2024. The Central Office actively reviews the utility market for

commodities and has locked-in a new rate that would begin in January, 2025 which was

higher than what they

were currently paying. The Purchase Power Agreement associated with the solar panels

on the High School, Middle School and Gallup Hill School, does help to mitigate the

increased costs of electricity. Solar panels would also be installed with new roofs on the

Juliet W. Long School which would generate 60% of the electricity load, and at the Gales

Ferry School, which would generate 90% of the electricity load.

Grant Funding comes into specific Grant Accounts and could only be used for the

specific program that they were received for. The grant funding was drawn down from

the specific grant account to directly pay for the expenses for which the grant funding

was received for. If the grant funding came in higher than projected that the funding

would reside in the grant account until the funding was drawn down. The grant funding

could not be used for any other purpose.

Board of Education Budget once approved by the townspeople that the Board of

Education would have their funding (current year fy 23/24 - $35,908368), which they

would use to pay for all of the expenditures for the School District. The source of the

revenues, whether it was tax revenue, grant funding from the Federal Government, State

of Connecticut, Out of Town Tuition, Agri-Science Grant Funding, etc. were all managed

by the Town.

Special Education Grant Funding (SPED) was the only revenue that impacted the

Board of Education because they received the grant funding directly from the State;

therefore, they had full responsibility and liability for these funds. The increase in the

Special Education costs were related to the out placements of students; and increased

needs for specialized services that were outside the scope that Ledyard could provide for

students in the district. The Board of Education has built well designed programming;

however, there were still some services they could not provide. In addition, the State

Legislature increased the age for School District’s responsibility for special education

students from 21 to the end of age 22. Because these were students that could not be

serviced within Ledyard Public Schools that they go to a specialized placement school.

The costs ranged between $60,000 - $250,000 per student, which did not include

transportation costs. The other variable that impacts special education costs were

students transferring from another school district to Ledyard. Ledyard has appealed to

their State Delegation to allow the special education funds to follow the student.

District Wide Teacher Account Lines had a significant increase. In Fiscal Year

2022/2023 the expense was $500,373; but for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 the expense was

$818,342. The District Wide Teacher Salary Accounts were primarily listed for the

elementary schools, because that was how the expenses were bucketed, noting at the

elementary school they shared some interventionists and some teachers for things such as

music/instrumental, art, etc., and shared some interventionists. One of the Board of

Education’s goals was to clean this up with the addition of the Interventionist and the

MTSS Coordinator in the upcoming budget (fy 24/25) to more accurately reflect the

expenses for each school.

Family Consumer Science Teacher was being funded for the Middle School in the

proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget. However, there was also a Family Consumer

Science Teacher for the High School, which was not funded and was included on the

2024/2025 Unbudgeted District Needs by Tier- Red Table. Mr. Hartling explained that

during the 2017 School Year some positions were cut at the High School. Long-term the

Board of Education would like to restore the Family Consumer Science Teacher for the

High School, which was the reason the position for the High School was included on the

Unbudgeted District Needs by Tier- Red Table.

Tuition Public Expenses was to pay tuition for Ledyard students who were attending

Magnet Schools providers, such as LEARN in New London; and to pay tuition to schools

around the state for Ledyard students who were placed at those schools by the

Department of Children and Families (DCF). Also, if Ledyard students attending Magnet

Schools have disabilities that Ledyard also pays for those Special Education costs.

Tuition Non-Public Expenses was to pay tuition to Specialized Schools for students with

disabilities, such as Johsua Center, and others.

Education Cost Sharing Revenue (ECS) projected increase in the amount of $428,954

(Fiscal Year 2022/2023 $11,475,245 - Fiscal Year 2024/2025 $11,904,199) would

mitigate the projected reduction in the Federal Impact Aid. The projected ECS Grant

Funding dollar amount included in the proposed revenue was taken from the State’s

Biennium Budget that was passed last year by the State of Connecticut. Although State

funding was not guaranteed, the Board of Education provided revenue estimates as a

starting point based on the information they had at the time their proposed budget was

submitted. The Mayor and The Town Council would then make adjustments/decisions in

establishing the Mil Rate. Both the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) and the Agri-Science

Grant Funding could change. Although the State was in the second year of the Biennium

Budget that the Legislation would continue to work to finetune the numbers. Prior to this

year’s Legislative Session, the Governor proposed reducing the proposed increase for the

ECS Grant funding by $150 million.

Agri-Science Grant Funding was funding that came from both the State and from

out-of-town students attending Ledyard’s Agri-Science Program. Should the

Agri-Science Grant Funding come in above the projected budgeted amount those funds

would be used for capital purchases/improvements for the Program, upon the approval of

the Town Council.

Inflationary Adjustments (Transportation, Utilities, Services) were based on market

changes and the cost of commodities. The increases were not based on a general Cost of

Living increase. The Board of Education was currently in negotiations with their

Transportation provider and may decide to solicit bids depending on the results of the

negotiations. Natural Gas which was the fuel source to heat the schools increased by

$50,000.

Net Current Expenditure Per Pupil (NCEP) Chart indicated that the closest Ledyard

was to the State’s Average Per Pupil Expenditure was in Fiscal Year 2022/2023. The

numbers in the five-year chart provided in the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget PowerPoint

presentation this evening were based on unaudited actuals and those numbers fluctuate

depending on date.

Interest Revenue projected for the General Government budget was $500,000 for the

upcoming Fiscal Year 2024/2025. The Capital Reserve Funds for things such as fire

trucks, public works equipment, large purchases, etc., resided in interest bearing

accounts. These funds were in the State Investment Fund (STIF) which was currently

earning 5.20% interest. The Operating Funds for salaries, etc., do not reside in a

long-term interest-bearing account. The Board of Education did not have any money in

the bank that would carry interest.

Purchase Property Services (copier leases, fiber network maintenance, technology

services, etc.) included an increase of $185,000. The reason these expenses were

considered operating expenses was because they were not tangible property assets.

Capital expenses would be things that were depreciable assets, such as new roof or stools

for the science lab.

Instructional Supplies incurred to comply with the State Mandated “Right to Read

Program” Requirements would be paid using an $86,000 State Grant that was received

after the Board of Education submitted its proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget.

Assistant Superintendent of Schools Anne Hogston and staff would be reworking the

Department of Defense Education Agency Grant (DoDEA) to help mitigate the cost to

implement the first year of the Right to Read Program. The reason the instructional

supplies expenditure account fluctuated from year to year was because it included all the

School District’s curriculum materials. The purchase of textbooks and other supplies

vary from year to year based on what was purchased the previous year and the needs for

the upcoming year.

$2,921,000 Grant Funding in the Board of Educations’ proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025

Budget was not reflected on the Revenue Pie Chart in the Board’s PowerPoint

presentation because those revenues go directly to, and were managed by the Board of

Education. Therefore, the Board of Education’s proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget

in the amount of $38,369,823 was actually $2,921,000 higher with the addition of this

Grant Funding. These grant funds paid for expenses such as salaries and costs associated

with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Grant Funding. Because

these grant funds have remained flat some of the expenses for the students with

disabilities would be paid by town allocations.

Salary Budget Lines provided in the Munis Financial budget report do not delineate the

number of staff that were being paid from a particular salary line. Knowing the number

of teachers the salary lines included would provide some perspective in understanding

the dollar amount. Superintendent Hartling stated the Board of Education’s Executive

Summary, and the Projected Salary Section (page 18) of their budget may help to

understand those numbers. However, he stated that he would try to get those numbers

from the Munis Financial System for the Town Council.

Capital Projects included $7.6 million in bonded projects that were requested in the

current year’s budget (fy 23/24) with the projects spanning over multiple years. Several

of those bond project requests were then moved forward to the upcoming Fiscal Year

2024/2025 Budget; and now go out to 2026; 2027; 2028. Bonded projects such as: (1)

High School Parking Lot; (2) High School Window Replacement; (3) Middle School

Cafeteria Expansion; (4) High School Classroom ventilation and air conditioning were

pushed to subsequent years because they recognized the fiscal realities the Town of

Ledyard faced relative to the costs of those projects. The Board of Education approved

and submits a Capital Plan to the Town and then the Town decides which projects they

were going to fund based on the available funding. The budget included the following

Capital Accounts: (1) Capital Non-Recurring which was funded by the Board of

Education’s budget surplus from the previous year; (2) Town Allocation on an annual

basis; (3) Bonded Items for larger projects such as roof replacements etc.; (4) Operating

Capital Account that addressed things such as parking lot repairs, etc.; (5) Agri-Science

Capital which was funded by grant funding received for the Ag-Science that came in

higher than the amount budgeted, as discussed earlier this evening. The Board of

Education’s approved Capital Projects were listed in the Town’s Spending Plan.

Board of Education Finance Committee Chairman Joanne Kelley noted that the

Committee to Review the Budget Process discussed the Budget Format and the Munis

Financial Reports. She stated the Committee considered formatting the Board of

Education’s budget by each school building. However, she stated the Committee found

that because none of the schools were the same (size, number of students, energy costs,

etc.) that they decided there was no benefit to changing the format.

Chairman Rodriguez stated that she attended one of the Board of Education’s Budget

Workshops. She noted that she was disheartened to hear a Member comment that the

proposed 6.85% budget increase would increase residents taxes by about $100, implying

that it was not that much money. She stated as Town Councilors their role was to serve

as the financial stewards of the residents tax dollars; and therefore, they needed to make

sure the Board of Education’s proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget was the best they

could do. She stated $100 was a lot of money for someone who was living just above the

poverty level, or for a senior citizen; or a disabled person who was on a fixed income.

Therefore, she asked if the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget in the amount of

$38,369,823 was the best they could do. Ms. Kelley stated the Board of Education took

its time to discuss and deliberate their expenses. She stated the Board of Education found

that they needed to finish some of the initiatives that they had been working on for years

in the area of the Intervention Program and the Mental Health Program. She stated not to

fund the services that were included in the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Education

Budget would be detrimental to their students, noting that they had a legal obligation to

educate their students.

Chairman Rodriguez thanked Ms. Kelley, Superintendent Mr. Hartling, and the members

of the Board of Education for their hard work in preparing a proposed Fiscal Year

2024/2025 Education Budget. She stated although no one wanted to see increases, that

they needed to recognize that the Board of Education has been holding the line for many

years, with minimal increases in years past; and therefore, they knew at some time they

were going to see increases. She stated the Board of Education’s proposed Fiscal Year

2024/2025 Budget in the amount of $38,369,823 has been received and filed. Thank you.

RECEIVED AND FILED

RESULT:

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

MINUTES

Mr. Mike Cherry, 5 Whippoorwill Drive, Gales Ferry, stated he was not an educator and

that he was not an educational administrator, therefore, he assumed that a lot of work

went into preparing the Board of Education’s proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget,

and that these were the minimum needs the town had. He stated that he thought a number

of the expenses listed in 2024/2025 Unbudgeted District Needs by Tier in the yellow and

red charts should be funded. He stated over the years that he has had discussions with

Superintendent of Schools Mr. Hartling about what the cost would be to increase their

Per Pupil Expenditures to “Average”. He provided the following cost scenarios based on

this year’s proposed Education Budget numbers: (1) Fund Per Pupil Expenditures at

Average would increase the Per Pupil Expenditures by $3,000 per student for a total

education budget of $7.2 million which was a 5-mil rate increase which would require an

additional $150 a month for residents who lived in a home that was valued at $300,000;

(2) Fund Per Pupil Expenditures at Median would increase the Per Pupil Expenditures by

$4,000 per student for a total education budget of $9.6 million, which would require an

additional $200 per month for residents who lived in a home that was valued at

$300,000. He stated that he did not think the town could afford to do this; and he stated

that the question was “How do we fix this?” He stated the Mil Rate/Taxes were based on

their Grand List, which in Ledyard was almost exclusively residential and automobile,

with only 5% of the Grand List coming from commercial/industrial. He stated the way

out of this situation was for the Economic Development Commission to help the Mayor

build their Grand List. He stated the Board of Education did an excellent job on the

proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget.

Mr. Cherry continued by commending Board of Education Member Joanne Kelley and

Town Councilor Jessica Buhle, noting that they responded to questions that were posted

on Facebook asking how the Covid Pandemic Funding was used. He stated that Ms.

Kelley and Ms. Buhle provided answers the same day that the questions were posted,

noting that the responses were specific and showed that Ledyard met the criteria for the

use of the funds as well as the deadlines. He thanked those who made the decisions on

how to spend the Covid Pandemic funding noting that Ledyard did not use the money for

recurring expenses that they would then have to provide for going forward.

Mr. Cherry concluded his comments by suggesting the town not support the budget by

taking money from the Rainy-Day Fund or the Mil Rate Stabilization Fund, noting that

these funds were in-place to off-set one-time expenses, not reoccurring expenses. He

stated if these funds were used this year that it would only put the town in worse shape

for next year. He concluded his remarks by thanking everyone who worked on the

proposed Board of Education Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget.

Chairman Rodriguez thanked Mr. Cherry for his comments.

Mr. Earl (Ty) Lamb, 95 Lambtown Road, Ledyard, noted that Ledyard was very fortunate

to have exceptional residents who have volunteered to serve their town. He noted that

Mr. and Mrs. Godino were some of those exceptional residents. He recognized Mrs.

Sheila Godino’s letter dated February 21, 2024 in which she stepped down from serving

as Chairman of the Cemetery Committee; and the item on tonight’s Agenda in which Mr.

Vincent Godino was being reassigned to continue to serve on the Historic District

Commission. He stated that Mr. and Mrs. Godino were two examples of dedicated

residents who have served the Town of Ledyard for many years. He stated it was people

like Mr. and Mrs. Godino and all the other volunteers who chose to serve their

community making Ledyard a little better than a lot of other towns. He concluded his

comments by stating that he wanted to recognize Vincent and Sheila (Rusty) Godino for

all the different Committees and Commissions they have served on.

Chairman Rodriguez thanked Mr. Lamb for this comments, noting that she sent Mrs.

Sheila (Rusty) Godino a letter to thank her for her many years of service to the Ledyard.

Mr. Andy Parad, 5 Birch Street, Ledyard, thanked Rabbi Ekstrand for attending tonight’s

Town Council meeting. He noted that he agreed with Rabbi EKstrand’s comments

regarding focusing on local issues and building communities with that in-mind. Mr.

Parad continued by stating that he was present this evening to talk about Pickleball. He

stated that he has been playing Pickleball for about 5-years, noting that he plays against

Pickleballers from all over New England. He stated that he has traveled to Dallas, Texas,

for a national tournament a few months ago. He stated that we were probably all aware of

the increasing popularity of pickleball, both for good and not as good reasons. He stated

that it was his opinion that the best thing about pickleball, was that it brings people

together to be active who otherwise would not be active or have that social connection.

He went on to state, as he traveled to other towns to play pickleball, and in getting to

know people from other towns who have undertaken building pickleball courts in their

own town, he has learned a lot about pickleball courts. He stated with the building of

pickleball courts invariably coming up in Ledyard, that he wanted to bring up a few

points so that Ledyard does not mess this up.

Mr. Parad continued by explaining that tennis and pickleball were not the same sport,

noting that the net requirements were different. Tennis players do not like having the

pickleball lines on the courts and the need to readjust the nets. Also, pickleball players do

not like using temporary nets or chasing the ball all the way to the back of the tennis

court. Pickleball needs dedicated courts. He stated that Stonington was the only town in

the area that he was aware of that has redone their tennis courts and has put in dedicated

pickleball courts at their High School. However, he stated Stonington made a huge

mistake, because they only put in 2 pickleball courts when they had the room to put in at

least 6, if not more, and he noted that the people who play at the Stonington pickleball

courts were not happy that more courts were not built. He stated once they started the

process to construct the pickleball courts that in terms of cost, that it proportionally made

sense to build more than two-courts. He stated that he believed the same mistake was

made when the four tennis courts were built at Ledyard High School. He stated every

other high school in the area has at least 6 tennis courts. He stated that he has had some

difficulty getting more information, but from what he understood for legal reasons the

two courts at Blonders Park cannot be used, at least for matches. He stated the last time

he was at Blonders Park he noticed that the courts were not well maintained. He stated

according to someone with knowledge from when the four courts were built, he noted the

following a quote: “Town Council said it would cost more to build the 6 courts than 4

courts”. However, Mr. Parad stated that it would have been pennies for the taxpayers,

commenting to save a buck they burden two sports programs for decades.

Mr. Parad suggested to learn from Ledyard history and not make the same recent mistake

that Stonington did, that they should add 2 tennis courts and as part of that project build

essentially as many pickleball courts, probably 6 or 8, that would fit on the plot of land

by the current tennis courts. He stated that while the 2 courts at Blonders Park could be

resurfaced and turned into probably 4 pickleball courts at a lower cost, that it would not

take into account that pickleball in the coming years was going to become at least an

intramural sport and probably a team sport. He stated that because they would be needing

the pickleball courts at the High School, that was where they should be focused, rather

than building town pickelball courts. He stated that it would be a benefit for our

community and our High School athletes. He stated the town needed to start planning

now for the future and do the right thing, so we do not end up with decades of regrets and

spending more money later.

Mr. Parad THEN concluded by stating that grant funding was available, noting that he

and some other people around town would be happy to explore this further. However, he

stated that they would need to know if seeking grant funding for the construction of

pickleball courts at the High School was something that would be supported by the Town

Council and the Board of Education before they started to proceed down that path.

Chairman Rodriguez thanked Mr. Parad for his comments.

Mayor Allyn, III, addressed Mr. Parad’s comments regarding the construction of

Pickleball Courts, noting that the Parks & Recreation Commission has included funding

in their budget for the upcoming fiscal year (24/25) to construct six pickleball courts. He

stated tax dollars would not be used for the project, noting that the funds would be

coming from the Parks & Recreation Capital Account (Fund 0203) that was funded by

Ordinance #200-009 “An Ordinance Providing for the Transfer of Certain Revenue From

the Real Estate Conveyance Tax to Specific Town of Ledyard Funds” which allocated

40% percentage of the Conveyance Tax from the Real Estate Transactions to the Parks &

Recreation Capital Account. He suggested Mr. Parad provide input to Parks &

Recreation regarding the Pickleball Courts.

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Councilor Brunelle stated she noticed a video that showcased Ledyard that was posted on

Town’s website earlier today. She suggested people watch the video, noting that it was

nicely done.

Councilor Saccone noted a few weeks ago the Town’s Fire Companies responded to a

fatal accident that occurred on Route 12, in Gales Ferry. He recognized the Volunteer

Fire Companies for an outstanding job in assessing the situation and in the handling of

the three patients that were involved. He stated although the outcome was unfortunate,

the volunteers did an outstanding job.

Councilor Buhle noted the town video that Councilor Brunelle mentioned. She stated the

Town Marketing Video was an Economic Development Commission project. She

thanked EDC Member Peter Hary for his involvement with the project and she noted that

she took the pictures of the submarines.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the Town Council Regular Meeting Minutes of February 14, 2024

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications List - February 28, 2024

Chairman Rodriguez stated a Communications List has been provided on the meeting portal

for tonight’s meeting and she noted there were referrals listed.

RECEIVED AND FILED

RESULT:

REFERALS

XI.

COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS

Administration Committee

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated although the Administration Committee has not met since

the last Town Council meeting they had a number of items on tonight’s agenda that she

would address later this evening.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee

Councilor Brunelle stated the Community Relations Committee has not met since the last

Town Council meeting. However, she stated the Black History Month Activities/Contest

were going well. She stated the Poetry Slam that was held at Lucille’s Restaurant in Ledyard

Center on Monday, February 19, 2024 went great. She noted Kia Baird sang Lift Every Voice

at the event, noting that she did a great job. She stated for those who may have missed the

Poetry Slam that they planned to have more of these types of events.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee met on February 21, 2024. He stated in

addition to the items on tonight’s Agenda the Committee also discussed the following: (1)

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

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

Councilor Saccone stated the Finance Committee continued to discuss the Surcharge Revenues

the Town has been and would continue to receive from the State, noting that Councilor

Buhle suggested they consider purchasing Bigbelly Solar Powered Trash Compactors to be

used at various town properties such as the Lower Town Green. He noted the Finance

Committee would continue review the information provided at their March 6, 2024 meeting;

(2) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding Project List - Councilor Saccone stated the

Committee discussed the reallocation of surplus funds from completed ARPA Projects in an

effort to prioritize “Add-On Projects”. He noted the following projects were discussed:

Route 12 Corridor Study; Guard Rails for Sandy Hollow Road; Wastewater Treatment

Facility additional equipment; Ledyard Center Sewer Extension Project Phase I & II; (3)

Potential uses of the funding received from National Opioid Settlement Payments -

Councilor Saccone stated at their September 27, 2023 meeting the Town Council

appropriated $36,100 to Ledge Light Health District/ Ledyard Prevention

Coalition to implement and expand access to opioid use disorder prevention, intervention,

treatment and recovery options. He noted that the Ledyard Prevention Coalition provided a

Report noting that from January, 2023 to February, 2024 that there were 40 Overdoses and

one Fatal Overdose in Ledyard/Gales Ferry. In addition, the Committee discussed the

placement of the Emergency Overdose Kits in town.

RESULT:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

Councilor St. Vil stated the LUPPW Committee has not met since the last Town Council

meeting. The LUPPW Committee’s March 4, 2024 meeting would be canceled.

RESULT:

Liaison Reports

This was ..to the Town Council due back on 3/13/2024

RESULT:

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

Councilor Brunelle stated the PMBC was continuing their work on the School Roof projects

at Juliet W. Long School and the Gales Ferry School.

Public Safety Report

Councilor Saccone noted that work has begun to change the town’s emergency radio system

over to the State-wide system, which was being funded by $284,000 Grant.

Library Commission

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry reported that the Library Commission’s February 26, 2024 was

rescheduled to February 29, 2024 due to the lack of a quorum.

Board of Education

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry stated the Board of Education held a special meeting on February

27, 2024 at which they discussed the Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School Roof

Projects.

XII. REPORT OF THE MAYOR

This was ..to the Town Council due back on 3/13/2024

RESULT:

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Retirement Board February 20, 2024

meeting - Mayor Allyn explained that the Defined Benefit Plan which closed in 2012 for

new employees was funded at 88.7%, which was among the top 10 funded pension plans

in the State of Connecticut. The Retirement Board has recommended the Fiscal Year

2024/2025 include $850,000 for Defined Benefit Plan, noting that the program was

funded on an annual basis; (2) Ledyard Prevention Coalition February 20, 2024 Meeting -

Mayor Allyn stated during the meeting they discussed the Opioid Settlement Funds. He

stated Ledyard would be receiving another traunch of funding from Walmart and other

Retailers, noting that the town would be receiving Opioid Settlement funding through the

year 2037. He stated that the Town Council would continue to work to identify needs for

the use/distribution of these funds. He stated the Ledyard Prevention Coalition had

Emergency Overdose Kits ready to be deployed noting that one kit would be located in

Gales Ferry and one kit would be in Ledyard. He stated an Overdose Map was provided at

the meeting which helped to identify potential areas in town for the location of the

Emergency Kits. He stated Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson,

Jr., was working with the Ledyard Prevention Coalition, and Police Chief John Rich on

the two locations; (3) Electric Boat (EB) Legislative Breakfast February 22, 2024 - Mayor

Allyn stated Electric Boat President Kevin Grainey gave an excellent update, noting that

the Norwich-New London Labor Market grew by 3.2% and was the second highest

employment growth in New England; (4) Bid Openings for Bid #2024-01 (Senior Center

Re-shingling) and Bid #2024-02 (Food Pantry Siding Improvements) were held on

February 22, 2024 - Mayor Allyn stated the bids came in under the estimated budget.

However, he stated because the town did not receive the required three bids in accordance

with Ordinance #200-001 (rev. 1) “An Ordinance for Purchasing” that Public Works

Director/Town Engineer would be seeking bid waivers for both projects; (5) Economic

Development Commission Marketing Video - Mayor Allyn stated the EDC completed

their Marketing Video project, noting as mentioned earlier this evening, the video was on

the Town’s website. He thanked EDC Member Peter Hary for his work on the project; (6)

Multi-Use Pathway Project - Mayor Allyn stated the work to construct the Multi-Use

(pedestrian and non-motorized bicycles) Pathway from the Bill Library to the High School

was scheduled to begin next week with the clearing and grubbing of the shoulder of the

road. The work would include realigning how Gallup Hill Road comes into Colonel

Ledyard Highway. He

stated instead of a “Y” configured intersection, it would now be a “T” intersection; (7)

Town Hall Improvements - Mayor Allyn stated the Public Works Crew has been painting

and replacing the carpet in Town Hall, which has not been done in about 25-years. This

project also included the consolidation and reconfiguration of some Department.

Questions to the Mayor - None.

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

None.

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

CONSENT CALENDAR

MOTION to reappoint Mr. George Hosey (U) 2 Lucienne Way, Ledyard, to the Permanent

Municipal Building Committee for a three (3) year term ending March 26, 2027.

*1.

*2.

*3.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

MOTION to reappoint Mr. William Thorne (R) 3 Adios Lane, Ledyard to the Retirement Board

for a three (3) year term ending January 20, 2027.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

MOTION to reappoint Mr. Thomas Cassabria (R) 18 Silas Dean Road, Ledyard, to the Housing

Authority for a five (5) year term ending March 31, 2029.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor St. Vil

VOTE:

7 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Gary St. Vil

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

Administration Committee

MOTION to appoint the following to the Historic District Commission:

Mr. Vincent Godino (D) 1906 Center Groton Road, as an Alternate Member for a five (5)

year term ending, December 6, 2024, filling a vacancy left by Mr. Lamb

Ms. Kelly Lamb (U) 93R Lambtown Road, Ledyard, as a Regular Member for a five year (5)

year term, ending December 6, 2024, filling a vacancy left by Mr. Godino.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Brunelle

Discussion: None.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

April Brunelle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Ms. Ammie M. Chittim (D) 972 Shewville Road, Ledyard,as a Regular

Member to the Historic District Commission to complete a five (5) year term ending December

6, 2028, filling a vacancy left by Ms. Dyson.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor Brunelle

Discussion: None.

VOTE:

7- 0 - Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

April Brunelle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Mrs. Karen Parkinson (R) 55 Rose Hill Road, Ledyard, as an Alternate

Member to the Historic District Commission to complete a five (5) year term ending December

6, 2028, filling a vacancy left by Ms. Lamb.

Moved by Councilor Brunelle, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Councilor Buhle stated that she has talked with Mrs. Parkinson on several

occasions and she noted that she would be an asset to the Historic District Commission.

Chairman Rodriguez noted Mrs. Parkinson’s background, enthusiasm, and energy, noting that

she would be a great addition to the Historic District Commission.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

April Brunelle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to adopt a proposed “An Ordinance Establishing a Farmers Market for the Town of

Ledyard” as presented in the draft dated January 17, 2024.

Moved by Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, seconded by Councilor St. Vil

Discussion: None.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Carmen Garcia-Irizarry

RESULT:

MOVER:

Gary St. Vil

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

Finance Committee

MOTION to grant a Bid Waiver to Quiet Corner Restoration LLC, of Hampton, Connecticut, the

amount of $83,025.17 due to receiving fewer than the required three bids in response to Bid

2024-03 (Nathan Lester House Exterior Rehabilitation ) in accordance with Ordinance #200-001

(rev 1) “An Ordinance for Purchasing”.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Councilor Buhle stated in response to Bid #2024-03 RFP (Nathan Lester House

Exterior Rehabilitation) that only two Bids were received from the following: (1) Proulx

Building & Remodeling, LLC in the amount of $111,240.00; and (2) Quiet Corner

Restoration, LLC in the amount of $83,025.17. She stated that the Quiet Corner Restoration,

LLC proposal was reasonable.

Chairman Rodriguez questioned whether Historic District Commission Chairman Earl (Ty)

Lamb would like to add any additional information regarding the Commission’s bid waiver

request. Mr. Lamb noted that he attended the Finance Committee’s February 21, 2024 at

which they asked the appropriate questions regarding the project. He stated the exterior work

was needed to keep the Nathan Lester House in good shape.

VOTE:

7 -0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to authorize the Finance Director to revise the tracking of the American Rescue Plan

Act (ARPA) funding in account #21010103-54500-G0014 (Historic District - Building

Maintenance- ARPA) to transfer $55,575.17 from the Sawmill Projects to the Nathan Lester

House Projects to facilitate the Nathan Lester House Exterior Rehabilitation work (Bid

#2024-03).

Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Historic District Commission Chairman Earl (Ty) Lamb, 97 Lambtown Road,

explained in allocating the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for the Historic District

Commission that the funding was being tracked by two separate accounts; one Account

designated for the Nathan Lester House projects; and one Account designated for the

Up-Down Sawmill projects. However, he stated in soliciting bids for the Nathan Lester

House Exterior Rehabilitation Work the cost was more than they initially estimated.

Therefore, he stated the Historic District Commission decided that the best approach for all

of their projects was to request these funds be transferred from the Up-Down Sawmill

account to the Nathan Lester House account.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

AYE:

Dombrowski, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appropriate and transfer the Board of Education Fiscal Year 2022/2023 audited

surplus of $217,387 from unrestricted fund balance to Account #21070101-58250 (BOE Reserve

Fund) in accordance with “Resolution Creating a Funding Mechanism for Making Annual

Appropriations to a Capital Reserve Fund for the Board of Education” adopted on September 28,

1988.

10.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Saccone

Discussion: Councilor Buhle explained with the receipt of the Annual Audit for the Fiscal

Year Ending June 30, 2023 that in accordance with the “Resolution Creating a Funding

Mechanism for Making Annual Appropriations to a Capital Reserve Fund for the Board of

Education” it has been the Town Council’s practice to annually transfer the Board of

Education’s surplus to their Reserve Capital Fund to be used for capital projects. She stated

that this was an administrative action to document on the record the transfer of the surplus

funds.

Councilor Buhle continued by noting in discussing the process to allocate these surplus funds

from the Board of Education’s Capital Account with Finance Director Matthew Bonin, that

Mr. Bonin explained that when the Board of Education submitted its Capital Projects List

they note that all the funding to support their projects would be coming from the tax levy.

However, she stated in preparing the budget for the upcoming fiscal year that Mr. Bonin

explained that the amount of tax levy needed to support the Board of Education's Capital

Projects request would be reduced by their surplus amount for the upcoming fiscal year

budget, noting that this has been the practice for many years.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tony Saccone

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to set-up a new, stand alone, Board of Education Capital Fund for Non-Bonded Board

of Education Capital Items to reside outside of the Town’s Capital Nonrecurring Fund (CNR

Fund 210).

Moved by Councilor Saccone, seconded by Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Mayor Allyn, III, explained that Finance Director Matthew Bonin has recommended

the Board of Education’s Capital Lines for non-bonded expenses be taken out of the General

Government’s Capital Nonrecurring Fund (CNR) and moved into the Board of Education’s side

of the ledger to manage these funds. He explained that currently the Board of Education had five

non-bonded capital lines that were nested within the Town’s CNR Fund 210. He stated by

moving these capital accounts to the Board of Education that it would provide them with more

flexibility. He stated that Finance Director Matthew Bonin would continue to have the same

visibility of these capital accounts that he currently had.

Councilor Saccone stated that it would also make it easier to track the projects and funding.

VOTE:

7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Brunelle, Buhle, Garcia-Irizarry, Paul, Rodriguez, Saccone, and St. Vil

Dombrowski, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Buhle moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Paul

VOTE:

7- 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 9:07 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 February 28, 2024.

___________________________

S. Naomi Rodriguez, Chairman

DISCLAIMER:

Although we try to be timely and accurate these are not official records of the Town.

The Town Council's Official Agenda and final Minutes will be on file in the Town Clerk's

Office.