741 Colonel Ledyard Highway

Ledyard, Connecticut 06339

TOWN OF LEDYARD

Finance Committee

Meeting Minutes

Chairman S. Naomi

Rodriguez

Regular Meeting

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

5:00 PM

Town Hall Annex Building - Hybrid

Format

CALL TO ORDER

the Meeting was called to order by Committee Chairman Councilor Saccone at 5:00

p.m. at the Council Chambers Town Hall Annex Building.

Councilor Saccone welcomed all to the Hybrid Meeting. He stated for the Town

Council Finance Committee and members of 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.

ROLL CALL

Tony Saccone

Jessica Buhle

Tim Ryan

Present:

In addition, the following were present:

S. Naomi Rodriguez Town Council Chairman

Carmen Garcia-IrizarryTown Councilor

Fred Allyn, IIMI ayor

Matthew Bonin Finance Director

Juliet Hodge Director Planning & Development

Scott Johnson, Jr. Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director

Earl (Ty) Lamb Historic District Commission Chairman

Betsy GrahamLantern Valley Hill Association

Roxanne Maher Administrative Assistant

III.

IV.

RESIDENTS & PROPERTY OWNERS COMMENTS

None.

PRESENTATIONS / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

None.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the Finance Committee’s Meeting Minutes of February 7, 2024

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan

VOTE: 3 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

FINANCE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

Finance Director’s Report

Finance Director Matthew Bonin reported that Fiscal Assistant Nancy Michard was

making good progress with getting caught up on the posting of receipts and outstanding

billing.

FINANCIAL REPORTS

Financial Reports

Finance Director Matthew Bonin noted that he provided an updated American Rescue

Plan Act (ARPA Projects List for discussion later this evening.

VII. NEW BUSINESS

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 Saccone, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Ryan stated he read the background information noting that 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. He stated that he did some research and found that Quiet

Corner Restoration, LLC, was a reputable contractor; and that he understood the

request for the bid waiver.

Councilor Ryn continued by noting Item #2 on tonight’s agenda, in which the

Historic District Commission was requesting that $55,575.17 of the American

Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding that was allocated for the Historic Up-Down

Sawmill improvements be moved to the Nathan Lester House to pay for the exterior

improvements to the house. He stated after paying for this work that there would be

no ARPA Funding remaining for the Nathan Lester House. Therefore, he questioned

whether any other funding would be required for improvements to the Nathan Lester

House. Mr. Earl (Ty) Lamb, Historic District Commission Chairman, replied “No”;

stating that there were no other projects planned using the ARPA funding for the

Nathan Lester House.

Councilor Ryan went on to note by moving the $55,575.17 American Rescue Plan

Act (ARPA) Funding from the Up-Down Sawmill improvements that they would

only have $33,000 remaining for the Sawmill improvements. Mr. Lamb explained

although they had projects planned for the Sawmill that the Historic District

Commission felt that re-siding the Nathan Lester House was much more important

than the work that was planned for the Sawmill. Councilor Ryan stated later this

evening the Finance Committee would be discussing the ARPA funding. Therefore,

he stated if there were projects for the Sawmill that might exceed the remaining

$33,000 that they could talk about them at that time.

Councilor Saccone stated that he had the same question that Councilor Ryan asked

relative to taking some of the ARPA Funding away from the Sawmill projects, noting

that Mr. Lamb stated he was comfortable with doing that. He noted that the Finance

Committee would be discussing the ARPA funding in depth later this evening and he

invited Mr. Lamb to stay for that discussion, noting that if there was any additional

funding need for the Sawmill that tonight would be the time to speak up. Mr. Lamb

stated that he would stay for the ARPA Funding discussion later this evening.

VOTE: 3 - 0 Approved and so declared

RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL

Tony Saccone

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Saccone, Buhle and Ryan

AYE:

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 Buhle, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Saccone noted that moving the $55,575.17 American Rescue

Plan Act (ARPA) funding from the Up-Down Sawmill to the Nathan Lester House

to pay for the residing of the house was discussed as part of Item #1 (see above) this

evening.

Mayor Allyn, III stated that he and Historic District Commission Chairman Lamb

discussed the re-siding of the east side of the Nathan Lester House, noting that it

would be a long-term solution to the exterior of the home.

Councilor Ryan stated the re-siding of the east side of the Nathan Lester House was

a good use of ARPA Funding, because it would mitigate capital expenses. He also

noted in reviewing the bid proposal that they received a good price for the reglazing

of the windows as well.

VOTE: 3 - 0 Approved and so declared

RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL

RESULT:

Jessica Buhle

Tim Ryan

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Saccone, Buhle and Ryan

AYE:

Discussion and possible action to consider the Lantern Hill Valey Association’s (LHVA)

request for the Town of Ledyard to include $5,000 in the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 General

Government Budget to help support a PILOT Program to develop a “Sustainable Boat

Launch Monitoring Program at the Long Pond State Boat Launch”.

Councilor Buhle noted that Mrs. Betsy Graham representing the Lantern Hill Valley

Association (LHVA) appealed to the Town Council at their February 14, 2024

meeting to provide funding to help support the development of a “Sustainable Boat

Launch Monitoring Program at the Long Pond State Boat Launch”. She stated

although she agreed that addressing and preventing invasive plants from being

transferred from different bodies of water was an important initiative, that more

information was needed for the Finance Committee to consider the Lantern Hill

Valley Association $5,000 request.

Councilor Saccone stated that he would like to see a town employee oversee the

“Sustainable Boat Launch Monitoring Program at the Long Pond State Boat

Launch” Program.

Councilor Ryan explained the next step in considering the Lantern Hill Valley

Association (LHVA) $5,000 request, would be for the Finance Committee to

determine whether this was an expense that could find a home for in the General

Government’s Budget.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated on March 4, 2024 he would submit a proposed Fiscal Year

2024/2025 Budget to the Town Council; at which time the Finance Committee would

begin their work.

Councilor Buhle questioned whether Ms. Graham has discussed the Sustainable Boat

Launch Monitoring Program at the Long Pond State Boat Launch with the

Conservation Commission to see if it was something they would be interested in

taking on. Ms. Betsy Graham, 72A Long Pond Road, South, Ledyard, Conservation

Commission Member, stated that the Commission did not have the budget to allocate

funding for the Program. However, she stated if the town allocated the requested

$5,000 to the Conservation Commission’s budget that she did not know if they would

be as dedicated to overseeing the program as the Lantern Hill Valley Association

would be. She continued by addressing the uncertainty of grant funding, noting that

you do not know when grant opportunities would come along; if your grant

application would be approved, and if approved whether the timing of the receipt of

the grant funding would coincide with their Program. She stated the Sustainable Boat

Launch Monitoring Program at the Long Pond State Boat Launch would be time

sensitive, explaining that they have to have the people and other components in-place

to make it work. She stated in attending a conference in 2019 she leaned that the CT

River Hydrilla was one of most invasive plants they were aware of, noting that these

types of invasive plants would eventually kill their lakes; although they would not see

it in their lifetime. She stated the Connecticut River was in jeopardy, the Mysitc

River was in jeopardy, and all the freshwater lakes were in jeopardy. She asked the

town to think about whether an ounce of prevention would be worth a pound of cure.

Ms. Graham provided the Finance Committee with a copy of the CT Aquatic

Invasive Species (AIS) Grant. Councilor Buhle suggested Ms. Graham look for

additional conservation type of grants such as a Water Conservation Stewardship

grant, noting that she believed the Grant Application period was open around April.

Councilor Saccone questioned the process should a Boat Monitor find a boat or a

piece of equipment that was contaminated. Mrs. Graham stated the Invasive

Investigator Program would teach the Boat Monitors how to approach boaters,

engage them, and help them learn about the best boating practices. She stated that if

they found invasive fragments they were supposed to take them off the

boat/equipment and put them on the ground way above the waterline in a pile where

they would dry out and defecate. However, she stated if a boat owner said the

Volunteer Boat Monitor could not look at their boat, even if they saw a plant on the

boat, that they would have to step back. However, she stated if she was the Boat

Monitor that she would take a picture and send it to the Department of Energy &

Environmental Protection (DEEP) noting that there was a $90 fine for transporting

invasive plants. She stated that she would take that risk, but that she would not expect

other volunteers to take that type of risk. She went on to state that in working to help

the public learn about best boating practices that if boaters see the invasive plants in

the water that they should bring the plant back to shore to let it defecate to help stop

the spread of the plant. She noted the handout she provided at the February 14, 2024

Town Council meeting included a picture of the CT River Hydrilla.

The Finance Committee noted that they would discuss Ms. Graham’s $5,000 request

during their Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget preparations.

Ms. Graham questioned the process going forward. Councilor Saccone suggested Ms.

Graham discuss the Lantern Hill Valley Association’s proposal regarding Sustainable

Boat Launch Monitoring Program at the Long Pond State Boat Launch with the

Conservation Commission. Mayor Allyn explained that Town Council

Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher would send Ms. Graham a copy of the

Agenda the next time they plan to discuss her proposal.

The Finance Committee thanked Ms. Graham for attending tonight's meeting.

Ms. Graham thanked the Finance Committee for their time this evening and she left

the meeting at 5:18 p.m.

DISCUSSED

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

RESULT:

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.

Moved by Councilor Buhle, seconded Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Finance Director Matthew Bonin 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. He stated that this was an administrative action

to document on the record the transfer of the surplus funds.

Councilor Saccone suggested the Town Council consider revisiting the “Resolution

Creating a Funding Mechanism for Making Annual Appropriations to a Capital

Reserve Fund for the Board of Education” to see if it was still needed 36 years later.

Mayor Allyn, III, explained when the Town Council adopted “Resolution Creating a

Funding Mechanism for Making Annual Appropriations to a Capital Reserve Fund

for the Board of Education” in 1988 the idea was that if the Board of Education was

fiscally responsible and underspent their budget; they would essentially be rewarded

by having funding available to help meet their capital needs.

Mayor Allyn went on to note a recent newspaper article which reported that after

ten-years of use the Town of Stonington had to replace their artificial turf football

field which cost $1million. However, he stated when Ledyard installed their artificial

turf multi-use field in 2020 that they were told the turf would last about 12-years and

would cost $250,000 to replace. He stated $1 million was a substantial investment;

and therefore, he stated it was important to continue to transfer the Board of

Education’s surplus to their Capital Fund.

Councilor Buhle recognized that the Board of Education was fiscally responsible and

underspent their budget by $217,387. She questioned whether the Board of Education

would be allocating these funds based on capital needs that were not approved as part

of the Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Budget. She explained the reason for her question was

because the Town Council approved the Board of Education’s Fiscal Year 2022/2023

Budget based on the needs/expenses that the Board presented for that budget year.

However, she stated once they get to the end of the year, if the Board of Education

had surplus funding that they could spend it however they wanted, which did not fall

in-line with the current practice of the Town Council approving the Board of

Education’s budget.

Mayor Allyn addressed Councilor Buhle’s comments explaining that during the past

several years the Board of Education has been using their surplus funds for capital

projects such as renovating the High School bathrooms and updating classrooms.

Councilor Buhle stated that she would like to see the Board of Education provide a

list prioritizing their capital projects for the use of the surplus funds; noting that the

Town Council could have allocated those $217,387 differently. Therefore, she stated

at this point in the process that it felt like the Town Council did not make a decision

on where that money would be used.

Councilor Ryan responded to Councilor Buhle stating that the Town Council’s

decision was the initial approval of the Board of Education’s budget. He explained

that the Board of Education does present a Capital Plan that the Town Council

approved each year,

which included large expenses such as roof replacements. He went on to explain that

the Board of Education has typically used their surplus funds to off-set smaller capital

projects, as the Mayor mentioned. He stated that he was not arguing for or against the

transfer of the Board of Education’s surplus funds. He explained by allowing the

Board of Education to keep and use their surplus funds that it does off-set potential

future expenses that may have gone into their capital plan or their facilities budget

request. However, he stated to Councilor Buhle’s point, that it would be nice to see

an accounting of those costs.

Mayor Allyn stated the Board of Education’s annual proposed budget does include a

Capital Plan along with a narrative explaining each of the projects and prioritizing

their capital projects. He noted as an example that the Juliet W. Long School

Classroom Renovations would be included in the Board of Education’s Fiscal Year

2024/2025 Capital Plan. He recognized that although $217,387 seemed like a lot of

money to most of us, that it was a small percentage of a $35,908,368 education

budget, noting that the surplus money would go a long way, especially when they

were looking at a cost of $70,000 for a playscape.

Councilor Buhle stated that she understood Mayor Allyn’s and Councilor Ryan’s

comments. However, she stated it would be helpful for the Board of Education to

identify how each of their capital projects would be funded. Mayor Allyn stated when

the Board of Education submitted its Annual Budget to him that the Capital Plan

would typically show tax levy for all of the projects, which actually meant “Tax the

residents this year and they would do the projects”. Therefore, he explained that the

Board of Education has left it to the Town to decide which projects to fund, noting

that the Board of Education has stated that planning and budgeting for capital

projects was not their thing. He noted as an example, the Board of Education was

aware and should have been planning over the past few years for the $300,000

elevator car at the High School. Therefore, he stated that the town would not be able

to do the elevator car this year, explaining that they would now need to begin

allocating funding over the next couple of fiscal years for the elevator car.

Councilor Ryan expressed concern that the Board of Education felt that their capital

expenses relative to strategic planning was not their thing, noting that the Board of

Education’s budget represented 68.5% of the total budget. Mayor Allyn stated it was

important for the Board of Education to make capital expenses and strategic planning

their thing and that they start planning for capital expenses that they know were

needed in the next five years, etc. He noted as an example the Fire Departments and

other departments know that equipment and other capital items have a specific

lifecycle, and therefore, they work to plan for the replacement of those items over a

period of time.

Councilor Ryan asked Board of Education Member Earl (Ty) Lamb to bring the

message regarding the importance for the Board to start to strategically plan for

capital items back to the Board of Education. Mr. Lamb stated he would convey the

Finance Committee’s message, noting that although he could not speak for the Board

of Education, that some of the issues the Finance Committee was discussing this

evening were the reasons he decided to get involved.

Councilor Saccone stated although the school buildings were town facilities, that the

Board of Education should be participating in the strategic planning for capital

expenses such as roof and window replacement, noting that they were the everyday

stewards of those facilities and should be able to identify those types of capital needs.

Councilor Buhle stated should the Town Council decide to revisit the 1988

“Resolution Creating a Funding Mechanism for Making Annual Appropriations to a

Capital Reserve Fund for the Board of Education” that they include language that

would require the Board of Education to provide a capital spending plan on how their

surplus funds would be used.

Councilor Garcia-Irizarry, Board of Education Liaison, noted that in speaking with

Board of Education Members they were not aware, or included in the process to

transfer their surplus funds at year end to their Capital Account, noting that the Board

of Education has not talked about the transfer of their surplus funds at their meetings.

She suggested that the Board of Education be made aware of the transfer of their

surplus funds.

Councilor Buhle explained that the Board of Education’s $217,387 surplus they were

transferring this evening was from the Fiscal Year 2022/2023, noting that they had to

wait until the Annual Audit Report was completed to determine the whether the

Board of Education had a surplus and the dollar amount. She went on to comment

that she could not imagine that the $217,387 would be allocated to projects without

the Board of Education voting on it.

Councilor Ryan explained per the 1988 “Resolution Creating a Funding Mechanism

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

Education” the transfer of the Board of Education’s surplus funds was an automatic

function; unless the Town Council decided to do something different, noting that the

transfer of funds was done without the Board of Education getting involved.

Mr. Lamb, Board of Education Member, stated he was not aware that the 1988

“Resolution Creating a Funding Mechanism for Making Annual Appropriations to a

Capital Reserve Fund for the Board of Education” existed.

Finance Director Matthew Bonin explained 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, he stated, as has been the practice in past

years, that he would then reduce the amount of tax levy needed to support the Board

of Education's Capital Projects request for the upcoming fiscal year budget.

VOTE: 3 - 0 Approved and so declared

RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL

Jessica Buhle

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Saccone, Buhle and Ryan

AYE:

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 Ryan, seconded Councilor Buhle

Discussion: Finance Director Matthew Bonin explained that he was recommending

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

General Government’s Capital Nonrecurring Fund (CNR). He explained that

currently the Board of Education has five non-bonded capital lines that were nested

within the Town’s CNR Fund 210. He stated because these capital lines were part of

the Town’s Capital Account, that all the activity had to flow through the General

Government’s Finance Department, which has created additional work and oversight

for the Town’s Finance Department that could be alleviated by creating a new, stand

alone, Board of Education Non-Bonded Capital Fund. He stated by removing the

Board of Education’s capital lines from the Government’s Capital Nonrecurring Fund

that it would also speed up the process and create a smoother workflow for the Board

of Education.

Mr. Bonin went on to explain that because the Board of Education’s five non-bonded

capital lines were nested within the Town’s CNR Fund 210 that he has been holding

them accountable relative to the compliance with the provisions of Ordinance

#200-001 (rev 1) “An Ordinance for Purchasing” which included thresholds for the

solicitation of bids and quotes, payment of invoices, vendor numbers, etc. He stated

that processing payments has become time consuming because he continuously had

to send things back to the Board of Education because invoices were not signed off,

or they did not comply with other requirements.

Mayor Allyn, III stated that Ordinance #200-001 (rev 1) “An Ordinance for

Purchasing” only applied to the General Government and did not include the Board

of Education.

Councilor Ryan stated that he was in-favor of moving the Board of Education’s

non-bonded capital lines to outside of the General Government’s Capital Fund from

the perspective that it would help Finance Director Mr. Bonin with making his job

more efficient; and because it would put more accountability and ownership on the

Board of Education. However, he questioned whether there would be the same level

of accountability; and stewardship of taxpayer funds if the Board of Education’s

non-bonded capital lines were outside of the General Fund.

It was noted that the Board of Education’s Regulation #3320 pertained to

“Purchasing Procedures Guidelines for Bids and Quotes.” Finance Director

Matthew Bonin stated the Board of Education’s Purchasing Regulations had higher

purchasing thresholds.

· Goods and Services between $5,000 and $14,999 required three quotes;

· Goods and Services between $15,000 and $29,999 required that written quotes be

obtained;

· Goods and Services between $30,000 required a formal advertised process to

solicited proposals.

Mr. Bonin stated the Board of Education’s new Finance Director Kenneth Knight

previously worked for the Town of Groton. He stated since Mr. Knight joined

Ledyard in July, 2023 that they have been working well together; and that they have

discussed moving the Board of Education’s non-bonded capital lines to outside of the

General Governments Capital Account. He went on to note that there have been

staffing changes in the Central Office, stating that the Board of Education recently

posted their Assistance Finance Director job opening.

Councilor Saccone questioned whether Finance Director Matthew Bonin would still

have access to view the Board of Education’s five non-bonded capital lines. Mr.

Bonin stated that he would continue to have visibility of all accounts.

VOTE: 3 - 0 Approved and so declared

RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL

Tim Ryan

RESULT:

MOVER:

Jessica Buhle

SECONDER:

Saccone, Buhle and Ryan

AYE:

Discussion regarding potential uses for the funding received from the National Opioid

Settlement Payments.

Mayor Allyn, III noted that since 2022 the Town has been receiving National Opioid

Settlement Funding that was coming from the Sackler Family Trust - Purdue Pharma,

and others who were party to the case such as Johnson & Johnson, Teva, Allergan,

Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart. He stated that he received notification earlier this

week that the town would be receiving a Settlement Payment from Walmart in the

amount of $28,400, which would be added to the payments that the town has already

received from other companies.

Chairman Rodriguez provided some background noting at that their September 27,

2023 meeting the Town Council appropriated $36,100 from the National Opioid

Settlement Funds to Ledge Light Health District/ Ledyard Prevention Coalition to

implement programs to address opioid use disorder and prevention, and to expand

access to intervention, treatment, and recovery options. She went on to note that she

along with Mayor Allyn, Police Chief Rich, and Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens

Director Scott Johnson, Jr. attended yesterday’s Ledyard Prevention Coalition

Meeting at which Senior Program Health Coordinator Kerensa Mansfield provided a

Report that included maps showing that since January, 2023 to February, 2024 that

there were 40 overdoses and one fatal overdose in Ledyard/Gales Ferry.

Chairman Rodriguez provided an overview of the map that was forwarded to the

Town Council. Chairman Rodriguez stated per the Overdose Map the Ledyard

Prevention Coalition agreed to place Emergency Overdose Kits which included 12

doses of Narcan, 6- 8 Fentanyl Testing Strips, and Resource Cards to provide contact

information at the following two locations: (1) Ledyard Center area; and (3) Gales

Ferry. She stated Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Mr. Johnson would

have the Narcan Emergency Overdose Kits placed on town-owned property. She

stated the Kits would be periodically checked to make sure the supplies were stocked.

She also stated that they would begin to work to get the word out regarding the

availability of the Narcan & Emergency Overdose Kits and their locations. She noted

that Ms. Mansfield indicated that that one dot on the map identified one overdose but

that there could have been more than one at that location and that they did not know

if the overdoses was accidental or intentional.

Mayor Allyn stated that there was also one overdose death that occurred at the end of

2022 calendar year that was not included in this data set.

Councilor Rodriguez addressed the importance to help their community noting that

people experiencing an overdose were not only drug addicts, explaining that they

were people who may have taken a medication such as Zantac which unbeknownst to

them contained Fentanyl.

Councilor Buhle commented on the importance of using the National Opioid

Settlement Funds to help people in their community, who may not know that they

needed help, noting that opioid medications were incredibly addictive. She stated

there were people in their community who may have been prescribed a pain

medication after a surgery or after an accident, noting that you do not know how the

medication would affect a person. Therefore, she stated it may be worth taking home

Narcan, because by the time they realized they needed the Narcan, that they may not

have the resources needed.

Mayor Allyn stated allocating some of the National Opioid Settlement Funds to the

Ledyard Prevention Coalition was one avenue that the Town Council decided to give

the funding to for the implementation of programs to address opioid use disorder and

prevention, and to expand access to intervention, treatment, and recovery options.

However, he stated that there were other local Organizations such as SERAC that

does similar work, noting that the Town Council could also consider other

groups/organizations to be recipients of these funds.

Councilor Ryan questioned the balance in the town’s Opioid Settlement Fund.

Finance Director Matthew Bonin stated to date Ledyard has received about $90,000

which would include the $28,000 the Mayor mentioned earlier this evening. He stated

$36,100 was allocated to the Ledyard Prevention Coalition leaving a current balance

of $54,000.

Councilor Saccone addressed how the temperature could affect the Narcan in the

Emergency Overdose Kits. He stated the medication would not freeze, but that the

mist could freeze when it goes through the applicator nozzle to spray the medication

into the nose. Chairman Rodriguez stated someone asked a question at yesterday’s

Ledyard Prevention Coalition meeting about the Narcan medication freezing with the

Emergency Overdose Kits being outside. She stated that Senior Program Health

Coordinator Ms. Mansfield stated that the Narcan would be fine in the weather.

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Mr. Johnson stated that Ms. Mansfield

stated the temperature would need to be well below freezing (in the negative

temperatures) before it would affect the Narcan, commenting in our area that it would

most likely not happen.

CONTINUE

RESULT:

Any other New Business proper to come before the Committee.

None.

VI.

OLD BUSINESS

Continued discussion regarding potential uses of the revenue received from Public Act

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

Regarding Revenues Received from Beverage Container Surcharges” (Nip Bottle Revenue)

adopted on June 8, 2022.

Councilor Buhle stated as she mentioned at the Finance Committee’s February 7,

2024 meeting, that she has been researching how other towns were spending their

Nip Bottle Surcharge Revenues noting that the use of Solar Powered Trash

Compactors peaked her interest.

· Solar Powered Trash Compactors - Councilor Buhle stated one of the allowed uses

provided in Public Act No.21-58 for the Nip Bottle Revenue was “Environmental

measures intended to reduce the generation of solid waste”. She stated that Groton,

East Lyme, Rocky Hill and other towns have pursued Solar Powered Trash

Compactors with the use of their Nip Bottle Revenue.

Councilor Buhle went on to state that she and Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens

Director Scott Johnon, Jr., had a Zoom call with a sales representative from Bigbelly

Solar Powered Trash Compactor, during which they asked a lot of questions.

Councilor Buhle provided an overview of the Bigbelly Solar Powered Trash

Compactors noting that they were made in the United States:

· Lifecycle of about 10-12 years.

· Five-year warrantee that covered everything including battery replacement if it

occurred during the warrantee period. The warrantee would not cover vandalism,

theft, or damage such as being hit by a car.

Batteries lasted about 4-5 years.

· Fully enclosed container would keep trash from blowing out of the container;

and would keep bees and other pests out of the trash.

· Could hold anywhere from three-times to eight-times the capacity of traditional

trash cans (Bin sizes 32 or 5- gallon capacity) using the same footprint of the

traditional trash cans.

· Reduced collections by 80%; plus, reduced costs for fuel and staff time to empty

the trash cans.

· Had both trash containers and recyclable containers.

· Connect to the internet.

· Included Mobile App software that would provide the following types of

notifications:

When the bin was full and needed to be emptied

Battery replacement

Bin status (door & hopper activity, bin location, change bags)

Diagnostics

Service History

· Made of corrosion-resistant material.

· Allowed for custom graphic wraps and provided for interchangeable Message

Panels

Councilor Buhle noted that she and Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director

Scott Johnon, Jr., thought a good location to try the solar powered trash compactors

would be at the Lower Town Green because of the amount of trash that was

generated by the Farmers Market. She stated information regarding Big Belly Solar

Powered Trash Compactor was attached to the agenda on the meeting portal for

discussion this evening.

Councilor Buhle stated she obtained a cost estimate in the amount of $7,770.80 the

following:

· 1- Solar Powered Unit that connected to the internet, with the hopper, and foot

peddle.

· 1- Recycling Unit with a circle open top for bottles and cans that connected to

the internet, but did not have the compactor.

· Five years of software.

· 2- Bags of trash liners for the trash compactor unit.

· 1-Bag of non-compactor recycle bags.

· Cost for Shipping.

Councilor Buhle stated for two set-ups as described above the cost would be

$15,543.60

Councilor Ryan noted that the five-year software would be a recurring expense.

Councilor Buhle stated the Bigbelly Solar Powered Trash Compactors were

available without the software and could operate without the software. She also

explained at the end of the five-years, the town had the option not to renew the

software; however, if they chose to renew the software the current cost was $100 per

year, per unit. She stated the reason she liked the idea of the software for their

PILOT Program was because it would provide them with data that would allow them

to determine whether the units provided a benefit/cost savings to the town.

Councilor Ryan stated after the five-year warrantee period that the costs to maintain

the units would become the town’s responsibility. Therefore, he questioned whether

the Bigbelly Sales Representative provided general maintenance costs for items such

as the replacement of batteries, bags, etc. Councilor Buhle noted that the Bigbelly

Sales Representative said the maintenance costs would be about $100-$200 per year,

per unit. She stated the units were built to last and the parts were interchangeable.

She also noted that should the town find the Solar Powered Trash Compactors

PILOT Program was beneficial that the Implementation Plan would not purchase all

units at the same time, explaining that the units could be purchased and maintained

as the Nip Bottle Revenue came into the town.

Mayor Allyn, III, questioned whether the Solar Powered Trash Compactors

Software would need to be able to connect to a Wi-Fi network. Councilor Buhle

stated it was a Mobile App Software, noting that all it needed was a cell phone.

Councilor Saccone questioned whether there had been any incidents of vandalism at

the Town Green. Mayor Allyn stated he was not aware of any vandalism, nothing

that the parking lot was well lit. Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott

Johnon, Jr., stated that he was not aware of any incidents of vandalism at the Town

Green, noting that the area was highly visible. However, he stated that they do see

vandalism at other parks in town that were not as visible.

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnon, Jr., stated the Town

Green was the only park where they had to empty trash cans, explaining all the other

Park Facilities had trash containers that were like the household trash containers,

where the Trash Contractor picked up the trash carts with the automated trucks. He

stated because of the volume of trash that was generated during the Farmers’ Market

that he was considering assigning a staff person to work during the Farmers' Market

to change out the trash bags. Therefore, he stated the Solar Powered Trash

Compactors might alleviate that need.

Mr. Johnson continued to state that Bigbelly Solar Powered Trash Compactor

containers looked cleaner, and that they could use them for Marketing with the

interchangeable Message Panels to advertise upcoming events; or perhaps sell

advertisements to businesses to offset the cost of the units. He also suggested they

put a pad under the units to make it easier to trim and mow around the units.

Councilor Buhle added that the Message Panels could be wrapped with the town

seal or to advertise sports registration, trunk or treat, summer camp registration, etc.

She also noted that it would be great to get the Beautification Committee, or the

schools to involved with an Environment Drawing Contest for earth day, etc.

Councilor Saccone noted because the units were solar powered that they could not

be placed under the pavilion. Councilor Buhle stated that they could be under a tree

canopy, but as Councilor Saccone noted the units could not be under a completely

covered structure. Mr. Johnson stated that Bigbelly also offered an adopter kit that

would allow them to connect to a solar panel and run a wire to trash container.

Councilor Buhle stated that the units could also be hard wired to charge the battery.

Councilor Buhle stated should the town decide to move forward with using the Nip

Bottle Revenues to launch a Solar Powered Trash Compactor PILOT Program that

they would be looking at a delivery and installation by early May, 2024, if they

placed their order soon. She went on to note that the other towns that purchased the

Trash Compactors allocated/transferred the funds to their Parks & Recreation

Departments to handle the purchasing of the units along with the related work.

Mayor Allyn agreed that it would make sense for the Parks & Recreation to handle

the Solar Powered Trash Compactors noting that the Town Green was under their

Administrative Control.

Mayor Allyn stated he has seen the trash compactors in airports and other places,

noting that he liked the idea for this use of the Surcharge Revenues (Nip Bottles). He

stated it was incredible to see how much they compact.

Finance Director Matthew Bonin stated the available balance in Surcharge Revenues

(Nip Bottles) Account was just under $29,000; noting that $10,000 was already

encumbered to lease the street sweeper this Spring, 2024.

Mayor Allyn noted the State disbursed the Surcharge Revenues to the towns in April

and October. He went on to explain that normally the street sweeper lease cost

$15,000. However, he stated because the street sweeper they received last year was a

lemon the company was giving the town a break for this coming Spring on the cost

of the lease. He noted as a comparison that the cost to purchase a street sweeper was

about $250,000.

Councilor Ryan offered to develop a spreadsheet similar to the American Rescue

Plan Act Projects List/Funding to track the revenues and expenditures of the

Surcharge Revenues (Nip Bottles) and to plan for recurring expenses such as the

street sweeper, the maintenance of Solar Powered Trash Compactors, as well as

new purchases, etc.

Mr. Johnson stated that he would prepare a full budget cost for the Bigbelly Solar

Powered Trash Compactors to include the concrete pads, etc. He stated that he

would also review the Parks & Recreation’s procedures to see if the Commission

would need to approve the placement of the trash units at the Lower Town Green.

Councilor Buhle stated that currently Bigbelly Solar Powered Trash Compactors was

the only company that sold these types of units in the United States. Mayor Allyn

noted that the Capital Region Council of Governments does not have a bid on this

product.

Councilor Ryan stated in researching how other towns were using their Surcharge

Revenues (Nip Bottles) that many have not started to use the funds yet. He noting

that he thought that the towns were still working to figure out how they could use

the funds within the State’s Guidelines.

CONTINUE

RESULT:

Councilor Saccone suggested the Finance Committee take a short recess before they start their

discussion on the American Rescue Act Funding (ARPA) Projects List.

Entered into Entered into Recess at : 6:10 p.m.

Came out of Recess at 6:15 p.m.

Councilor Saccone called the meeting back to order at 6:15 p.m.

Continued discussion regarding the status and possible changes to Capital Improvement Plan

(CIP) and Capital Non-Recurring (CNR) Fund based on the American Rescue Act Funding

(ARPA) and the process to approve ARPA Projects and expend ARPA Funding.

The Finance Committee, Mayor Allyn, III, and Director of Planning & Development

Juliet Hodge discussed the status of the ARPA Projects relative to the allocation of

surplus funds from completed projects to date; and to consider and prioritize the

remaining needs as follows:

· Gales Ferry Route 12 Corridor Study $15,000 - Mayor Allyn explained that they

have learned that $15,000 was not adequate, noting that $50,000 was going to be

needed to obtain a suitable Study that the town could use to later apply for Grants to

facilitate improvements in that area.

Director of Planning & Development Juliet Hodge explained because of the data

needed, the cost to conduct the Route 12 Corridor Study was going to cost $50,000.

She stated there was a lot happening in Gales Ferry, with a lot more on the way,

therefore, this Study was going to be crucial. She noted the $35,000 ARPA funding

that was included on the Projects List for the sidewalks in Gales Ferry could be

reallocated to be used toward the Gales Ferry Route 12 Corridor Study, noting by

adding the $35,000 to the $15,000 already assigned for the Study that they would

have the $50,000 needed to produce the type of Study needed.

· Sewer Line Extension Project Phase I $1,200,000- Mayor Allyn stated Phase I of

the Sewer Line Extension was currently in-process. He explained that there has been

some savings because they have coordinated this work with the construction of the

Multi-Use Pathway (pedestrian and bicycle) along Colonel Ledyard Highway, which

was being paid for by the by LoTCIP Grant funding (Local Transportation Capital

Improvement Plan). Therefore, he stated the work to lay the pipe under the Multi-Use

Pathway has come in $731,668 under the estimated $1,200,000 amount that was

initially assigned for Phase I of the Sewer Line Extension Project. He stated the

Multi-Use Pathway work would begin on March 4, 2024, with the clearing of the

land, with an expected completion date of November 30, 2024. He stated Weston &

Sampson Engineers, who designed the Multi-Use Pathway, would oversee the

construction of the Pathway project.

Mayor Allyn continued by addressing the importance to also provide construction

oversight of the Sewer Line Extension Project. He stated the cost to hire a Clerk of

the Works, who would be in the field on a daily basis to witness and oversee that

work the was being done properly and that the pipes/connections etc. were being

tested, etc., would cost $50,000.

Councilor Buhle requested clarification, noting that the LoTCIP Grant funding was

paying for the Multi-Use Pathway portion of the project and that the American

Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding was paying for Phase I of the Sewer Line

Extension portion of the project. Mayor Allyn stated that was correct.

Councilor Ryan noted Phase III of Sewer Line Extension Project $950,000. He

questioned based on the timeline of needing to have signed contracts in-place by

December 31, 2024 whether the town would be able to accomplish this project.

Mayor Allyn stated the Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) was working

with Weston & Sampson Engineers to start the engineering work for the next Phase,

which would bring the sewer line from the High School to Pennywise Lane. He stated

the hope was that they would have a signed contract in-place by December 31, 2024.

· Sandy Hollow Guiderail Replacement Project $390,000 - Mayor Allyn stated

because the guiderail was 7,000 feet that he asked Public Works Director/Town

Engineer Steve Masalin to identify the critical components of the 1.5-mile stretch of

road. He stated although Sandy Hollow Road has not been designated as a Scenic

Road, that it was quite scenic. Therefore, he stated that he would suggest that they

install the Rusted Metal Guiderails that would blend into the natural rural setting.

Councilor Ryan stated although the Sandy Hollow Guiderail Replacement Project

was included in the initial ARPA Projects List that it was currently not on the List.

Mayor Allyn stated the replacement of these guiderails have been requested in the

Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for several years, however, he stated due to budget

constraints that the project was annually taken out of the Plan.

Councilor Saccone noted when they began talking about the Sandy Hollow Guiderail

Replacement Project several years ago the cost was about $225,000. However, he

stated over the years that the costs have continued to increase, noting that the project

was now going to cost $165,000 more, than it would have if they replaced the

guiderails years ago.

Councilor Buhle questioned the cost for the regular guiderails. Mayor Allyn noted the

following cost estimates:

$1.1 million - Wood Guiderails, similar to the type that were on the Merit Parkway.

$312,000 - Galvanized Guiderails

$390,000 - Rusted Metal Guiderails that would blend into the natural rural setting.

Mayor Allyn, stated that he would ask Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin

to obtain quotes from the State Bid Contract List.

Councilor Ryan stated they had an Uncommitted ARPA Balance in the amount of

$225,962.49. Therefore, he stated if they wanted to move forward with the replacement

of the Sandy Hollow Guiderails this year that they would need to include the project in

the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Budget with $225,962.49

coming from ARPA and the balance in the amount of $164,037 coming from the tax

levy. He stated another option would be to replace as much of the guiderail as they could

with the $225,962 ARPA Funding.

Councilor Buhle questioned the reason Groton Utilities has not been willing to help pay for

the replacement of the guiderails, noting that it would make sense that they would want to

keep vehicles that may go off the road from going into the reservoir property, noting that this

project had been included on the town’s Capital Improvement Plan for many years. Mayor

Allyn stated he has talked with Groton Utilities about co-sharing the cost to replace the

guiderails and he stated that Groton Utilities’ response was an absolute “No”.

Councilor Saccone addressed the need to replace the dilapidated Guiderails on Sandy

Hollow Road. He commented on the safety/protection for motorists stating that it would not

take much to push through the current guiderails. He stated spending the money to replace

the guiderails on Sandy Hollow Road would go a long way in protecting their residents.

Councilor Ryan noted the following projects have not been started:

ü Ledyard Center Sidewalk In-Fill: $35,000 - Mayor Allyn noted they have obtained

quotes for this project, and that it was scheduled to be done this spring, 2024.

ü Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations: $20,000 - Mayor Allyn stated he would be

attending a webinar next week regarding a new program in Connecticut for EV

Charging Stations. He stated that he thought one Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging

Station could be installed on Colonel Ledyard Highway at one of the parallel parking

spots across the street from the Town Hall. However, he stated the town has been

having difficulty identifying a location in Gales Ferry for an Electric Vehicle (EV)

Charging Station, explaining that it would need to be on private property such as the

parking lot of businesses.

Councilor Ryan questioned whether there would be a way to offer a discount to

Ledyard Residents that used the Electric Vehicle Charging Station in town. Mayor

Allyn stated some towns who have installed Electric Vehicle Charging Stations were

offering them for free, noting that the town was paying for the electricity to charge

the vehicles. He addressed the cost of electricity, and he stated that offering the

Electric Vehicle Charging to residents for free was not realistic. Therefore, he stated

that it would need to be a Fee for Service Electric Charging Station, noting that users

would need to use a credit card or some type of payment method. He stated that it

would take some time to figure out how to provide a discount to Ledyard Residents.

Councilor Buhle suggested to provide an incentive to businesses to allow the town to

install an Electric Vehicle Charging Station on their property, that perhaps the

business could provide a validation slip to customers that would provide the

customers with a discount at Electric Vehicle Charging Station. She stated people

could charge their vehicle while they were having breakfast, shopping, etc., noting

that the program could also bring customers to local businesses. Mayor Allyn stated

Councilor Buhle had a good suggestion, however, he explained that some of the

businesses owners/operators were not the property owners, and that he would try to

contact the property owners.

Councilor Ryan questioned whether the Electric Vehicle Charging Stations could be

accomplished within the ARPA Funding timeline. Mayor Allyn stated that he

believed they would be able to get contracts for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in

place by December 31, 2024.

The Group noted the following projects were scheduled to begin soon:

Erickson Park Improvements $55,000 - Mayor Allyn stated the stone dust path was put

down this fall (2023). Therefore, he stated that Parks & Recreation planned to proceed with

the excavation work to create an additional fifteen parking spaces, and the other

improvement work, which included installing a retaining wall this spring (2024).

Councilor Ryan questioned whether there was any plan to improve the boat launch at

Erickson Park. Parks, Recreation, & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr.,

explained that they continuously bring in gravel for that area, noting that the slope and

location made it difficult to maintain. He stated they would be open to ideas to try to

remedy the issue. Councilor Ryan questioned whether improvements to the boat launch

would need to involve the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Mr. Johnson stated because the Erickson Park boat launch was on the Thames River, that

he believed DEEP would need to be involved. Councilor Buhle questioned whether the

Rain Garden has helped with the erosion in that area. Mr. Johnson stated that the Rain

Garden has redirected the water and has helped with some of the washout.

Councilor Saccone noted that the Parks & Recreation Capital Account had a current

balance in the amount of $332,000; noting that this account 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. Finance Director Matthew Bonin stated that there were still

some conveyance tax revenues that have not been recorded to that Account, noting that

Fiscal Assistant Nancy Marchand was continuing her work to catch up on journal entries,

noting the position had been vacant since November, 2023. Councilor Saccone

questioned whether Parks & Recreation would still need the entire $55,000 of ARPA

Funding for the Erickson Park Improvements.

Parks, Recreation, & Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson, Jr., stated the stone dust

path was paid out of the Parks & Recreation Capital Account, noting that the parking lot and

stonewall would be paid by the $55,000 ARPA Funding. He went on to explain that much of

the Parks & Recreation Capital Account has already been earmarked for other projects.

Councilor Buhle stated that Parks & Recreation could not apply for grant funding

without documentation showing that the improvement project was needed. Therefore,

she suggested the town consider conducting a Park Study that would evaluate all of the

town’s parks based on the population and location/space/parking/etc. of the parks.

Councilor Ryan noted a Park Study would provide guidance for future investments.

Linda C. Davis Food Pantry Re-siding $28,250 - Mayor Allyn noted the Bid opening for

the Food Pantry Siding Improvements ((Bid #2024-02) was scheduled for February 22,

2024.

· Exterior Doors Town Hall & Annex Building $23,000 - Mayor Allyn stated the doors

were in-process.

Mr. Earl (Ty) Lamb, 95 Lambtown Road, Ledyard, Historic Commission Chairman, noted

earlier this evening (New Business Item #2- see above); the Finance Committee

addressed the Commission’s request to move $55,575.17 of ARPA Funds from the

Up-Down Sawmill to the Nathan Lester House to accomplish the exterior improvements.

However, he stated that the Historic Commission had the following four improvement

projects for the Sawmill:

(1) Raceway

(2) Line Penstock

(3) Handicap Access

(4) Framing

Mr. Lamb went on to note that former Historic District Commission Chairman Vincent

Godino was planning to use ARPA Funding plus $32,000 from their Capital Account to pay

for some of these Up-Down Sawmill improvement projects. However, he explained that the

Commission’s Capital Funds were typically used for emergency expenses. Therefore, he

stated rather than use their Capital Fund for these Sawmill improvements that it would be

helpful if they could use ARPA Funds instead. Councilor Ryan questioned whether they

could have these four Sawmill projects under contract by December 31, 2024. Mr. Lamb

replied “Yes”.

Mr. Lamb continued by stating that the Historic District Commission has also been

discussing the following:

Replacement of the siding on the Sawmill.

Ability to expand the use of the Nathan Lester House for things such as historical

education, which would require the construction of a building on the property.

Mr. Lamb stated the Commission was also planning a trip to a Historical Education Center

in Westwood, Massachusetts, noting that the Center has made money for their town.

Councilor Ryan questioned whether there were some smaller projects on the upcoming

Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Capital Improvement List (CIP) that could be funded using the

remainder of the ARPA Funding, which would help to bring the projected mil rate increase

down. Mayor Allyn stated that there were some projects that were being deferred over the

next 2-3 fiscal years; however, he stated there were some projects on the CIP for the

upcoming fiscal year that had low funding thresholds. He stated they could accomplish a

number of the smaller capital projects/purchases by using the ARPA Funding. Finance

Director Matthew Bonin stated the ARPA funding could also be used for road

improvement work. Councilor Saccone stated although he liked the idea to offset the cost

of the Capital Improvement Plan to keep the mil rate increase low; that he would urge

caution in delaying projects such as the replacement of the Sandy Hollow Road

guiderails noting that the cost was only going to continue to increase, as they have

already experienced.

Chairman Rodriguez questioned whether the replacement of the Sandy Hollow Road

guiderails had ever been included on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Mayor Allyn

stated “Yes”; noting the project had been included on the Capital Improvement Plan

several times but that it was removed, because of budget constraints. He stated every

budget year there were $8 million-$12million in capital costs submitted, noting that they

have to take some projects out, noting that they cannot afford to do them all.

Councilor Buhle suggested they use the $225,000 ARPA funding for projects that were

on the Capital Improvement Plan, instead of doing the Sandy Hollow Guiderail project

this year; and then begin to budget for the guiderail replacement project in the Capital

Impromvent Plan by allocating $125,000 over the next 3-years, noting that it would be

$200,000 less to the taxpayers.

Mayor Allyn stated that he and Finance Director Matthew Bonin could create a short-list of

capital projects, to also present with the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget for the

Finance Committee to consider during their budget work.

Finance Director Matthew Bonin stated that he would like to zero-out the ARPA Projects

that have been completed, which would put any remaining funds from those projects back

into the Uncommitted column. However, he also noted that there were some ARPA Projects

that came in over the amount that was budgeted, noting that the net amount of all those

projects was about $12,000. The Finance Committee noted that a Motion was not required

for Mr. Bonin to close-out the projects and make the adjustments to the ARPA Project

spreadsheet.

Mayor Allyn provided a recap noting the Finance Committee discussed the following ARPA

Funding Adjustments/Reallocations:

Move From:

ü $35,000 Gales Ferry Sidewalks

Move To:

Route 12 Corridor Study

ü $50,000 Sewer Line Extension Phase I

Hire Clerk of the Works for Sewer Projects

Mayor Allyn stated that Mr. Bonin would make the adjustments as noted above along with

closing out the completed projects on the ARPA Project spreadsheet to provide the balances

for the Finance Committee’s March 6, 2024 meeting. He also noted that he would work with

Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin to obtain quotes for replacement of the

Sandy Hollow Guiderails for their next meeting as well.

Councilor Buhle addressed the former Dow-Styrenics property in Gales Ferry, noting that

the property needed to be remediated before it could be developed. The Finance Committee

noted that it was private property and that it would be the responsibility of the current or

future owner of the property to have the remediation work done.

CONTINUE

RESULT:

Any other Old Business proper to come before the Committee.

None.

ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Buhle moved the meeting be adjourned, seconded by Councilor Ryan.

VOTE:

3 - 0 Approved and so declared, the meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Anthony Saccone, Sr.

Committee Chairman

Finance

Committee