741 Colonel Ledyard Highway

Ledyard, Connecticut 06339-1551

(860) 464-3203

TOWN OF LEDYARD

Town Council

council@ledyardct.org

Meeting Minutes

Chairman Kevin J.

Dombrowski

Regular Meeting

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

7:00 PM

Council Chambers - Town Hall

Annex- Hybrid Format

In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex

Remote: Information noted below:

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CALL TO ORDER

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

Annex Building

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

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

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

Granicus-Legistar Meeting Portal.

II.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

III.

Chairman Kevin Dombrowski

Councilor Whit Irwin

Present:

Councilor Whit Irwin

Councilor Gary Paul

Councilor S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Tim Ryan

Councilor Bill Saums

Councilor Andra Ingalls

Councilor John Marshall

Councilor Mary K. McGrattan

Excused:

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

None.

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

MINUTES

Ms. Joanne Kelley, 12 Thames View Pentway, Gales Ferry, stated she has lived at this

address for 43 years noting that the road opened onto Route 12 close to the traffic light at the

Dow Chemical site. She stated she was present this evening to comment on the complicated

and confusing process the Cashman Dredging and Marine Contracting proposed Solid Waste

Facility at the former Dow Chemical Site on Route 12 was to residents. She stated that she

belonged to a Committee of Concerned Citizens who were trying to follow the process, be

informed, and to seek as much transparency as possible. She requested the following:

· The Town’s Traffic Commission schedule Public Meetings to allow residents to ask

questions regarding traffic impact, traffic studies, traffic history and historical data. Ms.

Kelley noted it was the residents understanding that this type of data may come into play

as part of the approval process.

· The Town Council, the Mayor, and others to be transparent with the residents about the

benefits the proposed Solid Waste Facility at the former Dow Chemical Site on Route 12

would provide to the Town.

Ms. Kelley stated records from the Tax Assessor’s Office show that over the last several

years the value of the former Dow Chemical property has dramatically decreased noting it

has dropped from $8 million to $5.4 million. Therefore, she stated that she would assume

that tax revenue has also been sharply reduced during that time period. She questioned

whether there was a reason to believe that the proposed Solid Waste Facility would increase

the value to the town. She stated it did not appear that the Developers planned to build any

structures and that they would mostly use third party vendors.

Ms. Kelley stated that she was not anti-dredging or anti-business, noting that she understood

that it was a necessary evil for our industries and our national security. She stated that she

saw a number of potential businesses that would be a very nice fit at the Dow Chemical site,

even if they would increase traffic. She stated she was pro-development for Ledyard, noting

that there was such a thing as the “Right Plan for the Wrong Place”.

Ms. Kelley stated she first heard about the Solid Waste Facility proposal when Mr. Bill

Saums posted the Environmental Justice Public Participation Plan on Facebook last spring

(2022). She stated as a resident who lived less an a tenth of a mile from the site that it was a

red flag to her when she was not included on the list of abutters the Developers notified. She

stated the Environmental Justice Public Participation Plan stated the Developer would notify

the impacted community. She noted the Application for the proposed Solid Waste Facility

was currently being reviewed by the Department of Environmental and Energy Protection

(DEEP) and she explained that this process included a 60-day clock, which began on July 18,

2022 with the Public Information Forum that was held at the Ledyard Middle School, which

only left residents with more questions than answers, noting that there was a lot of

information that was contradictory to the written Plan. She stated at the July 18, 2022 Public

Information Forum the residents were promised that there would be more meetings and

vigorous interaction with the Company. However, she stated to-date the Company has

refused any and all of the residents attempts to have further meetings. She stated the written

Plan has not been revised to reflect any of the verbal concessions that were given at the July

18, 2022 Public Information Forum, noting that the Plan still stands with 1,000 trucks per

day.

Ms. Kelley stated residents thought that perhaps they could talk with the Planning & Zoning

Commission and look at the Zoning Regulations to learn about the process. However, she

stated residents learned that the Zoning Regulations were in the middle of being completely

overhauled. Therefore, she stated they have no idea if the permits for the Solid Waste

Facility would fall under the old Zoning Regulations or the new Zoning Regulations. She

stated every question regarding the process was answered with “Well, it depends”. She

stated that the residents were aware that to-date an Application for the Solid Waste Facility

has not been submitted to the town; and that DEEP would be a big factor in all of this. She

stated residents cannot find any information. She stated State Senator Cathy Osten attended

the DEEP August, 2022 meeting and that there was no Public Hearing planned for the

approval of the proposed Solid Waste Facility on Route 12 in Gales Ferry.

Ms. Kelley continued by noting that residents have heard that there may be other agencies

involved in the process regarding the proposed Solid Waste Facility, such as the

Environmental Protection Agency, Army Core of Engineers, Department of Transportation,

Federal Railroad Administration, and on, and on. She stated residents were struggling to

understand the process.

Ms. Kelley concluded by asking whether the Town could provide to residents any resources,

or information other than the two items she requested this evening.

Chairman Dombrowski thanked Ms. Kelley for her comments. However, he stated Ledyard

does not have a Traffic Commission, noting that the State has a Traffic Commission. Ms.

Kelley stated she was told by an elected official that every town has a Traffic Commission

and that they rarely meet, and that Ledyard’s Traffic Commission was headed up by Police

Chief Rich. Ms. Kelley asked that Police Chief Rich hold a meeting for residents to ask

questions and to obtain general information about traffic. Chairman Dombrowski stated that

Chief Rich would only be able to obtain any previous traffic records that the Department of

Transportation had. He stated that Ms. Kelley could obtain the same information from the

Department of Transportation. Ms. Kelley stated that it would be helpful if Chief Rich could

obtain the records from the State Department of Transportation (DOT).

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Councilor Paul stated on August 31, 2022 he had the honor and privilege to serve his

community with some of his fellow Councilors at the Community Relations Committee “Are

You Ready for Winter?” table at the Farmers Market. He thanked Councilor Saums and

Councilor Rodriguez for their efforts in preparing for and their participation in hosting the

event. He stated the “Are You Ready for Winter?” Event featured the following gtown and

regional services:

ü Mental Health Resources

ü Brian’s Healing Heart Suicide Prevention from Niantic

ü Youth & Family Counseling Services -

ü Ledyard Visiting Nurses - Home Health Care

ü Energy Home Heating Fuel Assistance

ü Utilities - Electric & Water Assistance

ü Meal Delivery for Home Bound Individuals

ü Renters Rebate Program

ü No Interest Home Improvement Loans

ü Linda C. Davis Food Pantry

ü United Way of Southeastern Connecticut located in Gales Ferry

ü Special Needs Family Registry

ü Blue Envelope & Green Envelope Program for drivers with special needs was

supported by the Police Department

ü Ledge Light Health District Alliance for Living

ü NLC Cares Team who were in attendance to recognize “Overdose Awareness

Day”

Councilor Paul thanked the Ledyard Farmers’ Market Committee and all the volunteers who

work hard every week to put on the Farmers Market all summer long. He stated there was no

better Farmers Market than what they have in Ledyard; and that it was the volunteers who

run it that make it so successful. He thanked the Farmers Market Committee for allowing the

Community Relations Committee to host tables at the Market this summer to provide

important information to our residents.

Councilor Paul continued by thanking the following:

· Ledyard Police Department - Councilor Paul stated the Police Department’s willingness

to actively seek out ways to bring our community together, while also being willing to

listen, learn and grow. He noted the Police Department’s work does not go unnoticed.

· Brian’s Healing Heart Suicide Prevention from Niantic. - Councilor Paul stated the

Brian Dagel Foundation provides education to help break the stigma of mental health,

while saving countless lives.

· Ledyard Prevention Coalition and Ledge Light Health District Alliance for the Living

and the NLC Cares Team. Councilor Paul stated they provided Narcan Kits to reverse

drug overdose.

· Ledyard Youth Services Coordinator Kate Sikorsky-Maynard andSocial Services

Coordinator Kristen Chapman. Councilor Paul stated Ms. Sikorsky took the time to talk

with him about the various services she and her Department provides to the community.

He also thanked Ms. Chapman for her work in helping to support residents in our

community. He stated Ms. Chapman provided the Committee with a lot of information

which helped the Community Relations Committee prepare for the August 31, 2022

event.

Councilor Paul concluded by stating he was grateful, and that he appreciated everyone who

helped the Community Relations Committee host the “Are You Ready for Winter?” table at

the Farmers Market. He noted the number people he thanked this evening showed the

community that help, and services were available. He stated it showed that to break the

stigma of mental health, to overcome racism, and to beat violence that they must come

together as a community. He stated only by listening, educating and overcoming challenges

together was how they could build a strong community that would weed out the things that

seek to divide us. He stated it starts with us, within our homes, and moves to our neighbors,

then the neighborhood, then the schools, and then to other towns, and to the region. He stated

he was proud of our community and that he was proud of Ledyard’ volunteers who serve to

make Ledyard such a great place live and work. He stated all this was on display at the

Community Relations “Are You Ready for Winter? table at the August 31, 2022 Farmers

Market; like it was everyday here Ledyard. He reminded people that if they need to help to

please reach out, noting information was available on the town’s website at

www.ledyardct.org <http://www.ledyardct.org>; or they could call the Town Hall or any

member of the Town Council. He stated folks should never be ashamed or embarrassed if

they need help. He stated if you were suffering from depression, anxiety or any mental

health crisis please call 211;or the Ledyard Youth & Social Services Department at: (860)

464-3213 or (860) 464-3222 to find out how you can be connected to people who can help.

He stated No One is Alone and if you or someone you know was having thoughts of suicide,

to please call the Suicide Crisis Center at 988 or dial 911.

Councilor Paul continued by announcing on Saturday, October 8, 2022 that an Inspirational

Festival - First Fruits of the Harvest will be held at the Sweet Hill Farm in Gales Ferry from

12:00 Noon - 4:00 p.m. He stated this would be a non-town event, which would feature

vendors, inspirational worship music, and some churches would be represented. He stated

the focus would be on mental health and that he would give a short talk on mental health.

Councilor Rodriguez thanked the Ledyard Farmers’ Market Committee for organizing and

managing the Farmers’ Market. She stated the Committees hard work does not go unnoticed,

stating that she enjoyed the Farmers Market all summer. She stated on August 31, 2022 the

Farmers Market and Community Relations Committee hosted the Brian Dagel Foundation

and Brian’s Healing Heart Center for Hope and Healing. She stated the Brian Dagel

Foundation had many visitors to their tent at the Market at which they spoke with folks about

dealing with grief, loss, and suicide prevention. She thanked Brian’s Healing Heart for

coming to Ledyard.

Councilor Rodriguez stated Chief Rich has been working with the Groton Town Police

Department, Waterford Police Department, and the Southern Connecticut State University

Center for Excellence in Autism Spectrum Disorders to provide a Mock Traffic Stop

Program that would be directed toward individuals with Autism, Deaf -Hearing Impaired or

New Drivers. She stated the Mock Traffic Stop Presentation would be held on Saturday

October 1, 2022 at Fitch High School from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 Noon. She noted this idea for a

Mock Traffic Stop came up during a meeting with the Ledyard Police Department and

parents of autistic children. She stated in preparation for the Traffic Stop the Ledyard Police

Department would be hosting an Ice Cream Social at the Ledyard Senior Center on Van

Tassel Drive, Gales Ferry, on Friday, September 30, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. for the community

and families with autistic individuals.

Councilor Rodriguez continued by noting that she along with Mayor Allyn, III, attended the

Ledyard Prevention Coalition Meeting on September 6, 2022 at which their Annual Report

was provided. She went on to announce the following events: (1) Trunk or Treat October 28,

2022 - Ledyard Prevention Coalition would participate in the event; (2) National Prescription

Drug Take Back Day October 29, 2022 - The Ledyard Police Department would be

participating in the event; (3) Suicide Mental Health Prevention Awareness September 21,

2022 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Pharmacy parking lot.

Councilor Saums complemented Community Relations Committee Chairman Paul on the

work he was doing. He stated Councilor Paul was doing a great job and he thanked him for

his work.

Councilor Irwin stated tonight was the last Farmers’ Market for the 2022 Summer Season.

He stated the Farmers Market was a phenomenal weekly event that has brought the

community together all summer long. He thanked Market Manager Lauriann Hary and

Committee Volunteers who put their hearts and sole into the event and it showed every

week.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the following:

Special Meeting Minutes of July 27, 2022

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Whit Irwin

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

Regular Meeting Minutes of July 27, 2022

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

Whit Irwin

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

Special Meeting Minutes of August 3, 2022

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

RESULT:

Whit Irwin

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

Chairman Dombrowski stated a Communications List has been provided and he noted the

referrals listed.

Communications List for September 14, 2022

REFERALS

XI.

COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS

Administration Committee

Councilor Irwin noted although the Administration Committee has not met since the last Town

Council meeting, that they had two items on tonight’s agenda.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee

Councilor Paul stated the Community Relations met on August 17, 2022 and addressed the

following: (1) Are You Ready for Winter Event ? - Councilor Paul stated as he mentioned earlier

this evening ( see above - VI. Councilor Comments) the Committee hosted a table at the August

31, 2022 Farmers Market to connect the community with services that were available to help

those in-need and to focus on mental health; (2) Mission Statement - The Committee was

making progress on their Mission Statement to more accurately reflect the purpose and goals of

the current committee; (3) Informal Gathering with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council

(MPTN) - Councilor Paul stated due to illness the Gathering that was previously scheduled for

September 8, 2022 would be rescheduled; (4) Informal Conversations with the Community -

Councilor Paul noted the Community Relations Committee engaged with residents at the East

Drive Park on July 20, 2022 and he stated that the Committee was looking to host more informal

conversation with residents at various venues in town. He stated The Committee would be

looking for community input on topics for discussion. He stated the Informal Conversations

around town was a great way for residents to engage and talk about issues in a casual setting and

allowed the Committee to bring those issues back to the Town Council. He encouraged residents

to contact any member of the Town Council to suggest topics that they were interested in; (5)

National Faith and Blue Weekend - Sunday October 9, 2022 from 2:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. -

Councilor Paul stated the Community Relations Committee would be participating in the

“National Faith and Blue Weekend” with the Ledyard Police Department. He explained the

focus of the National Faith and Blue Weekend, which was scheduled for the weekend of

October 7 - 10, 2022, was to pro-actively engage community members, faith-based

organizations, civic organizations, and law enforcement in activities that would allow them

to connect on a personal level, and in doing so, create a safer and stronger community. He

stated the event would be a Clam Chowder-Fish Fry and would be held at either the

Holdridge Pavilion at the Town Green or at the Congregational Church Fellowship Hall. He

stated this would be a non-political event with the hope that they would be joined by other

civic and faith-based organizations, along with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Police

Department and Tribal Members as well. He encouraged residents to mark their calendars for

the Ledyard’s Faith and Blue Weekend - Sunday October 9, 2022 from 2:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Councilor Saums addressed National Faith and Blue Weekend, noting that the date has been

set for Sunday October 9, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. however, the event was still in

the planning phase. He stated to-date the Congregational Church has not met to consider the

proposal. He stated that they were also reaching out to other churches in town.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

Councilor Saums stated the Finance Committee held their hybrid meeting on September 7, 2022.

He stated in addition to the items on tonight’s agenda the Commission discussed a Board of

Education request to: (1) Increase the Roof Project Bid amount from $35.000 per square foot

to $50.000 per square foot for the reroofing of the Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long

School; and (2) Acknowledge that the town was aware that the State would only provide a

Grant reimbursement rate of 75% of the cost of the project to satisfy the State and their

process. He explained according to the State’s records, the Gales Ferry School roof was not

accepted by the Board of Education until 2006. He stated although the School opened in

1999 that the State’s records indicate that the roof does not meet the 20-year lifecycle

requirement. Therefore, he explained the State would reduce the reimbursement by 20%; and

that the State was looking for the Town Council to acknowledge this 20% reduction in the

grant reimbursement to the town. He also noted that Finance Director Matthew Bonin has

contacted the State Board of Education to obtain the documentation imposing these

requirements. He noted Board of Education Director of Facilities and Grounds Mr.

Donaldson stated for the School reroofing projects that he obtained a cost estimate in the

amount of $35.00 per square foot from the contractor who put the new roofs on the Town

Hall and the Annex Building this summer. He stated in developing his numbers that Mr.

Donaldson stated that he increased the dollar amount to $38.00 per square foot because he

knew the Board of Education’s roof projects were going to be a year out. Councilor Saums

stated at the February 22, 2022 Town-wide Referendum the townspeople approved to Bond

$6,725,000 for various school improvement projects, including replacement of the roofs at

the Central Office, Gales Ferry School, and Juliet W. Long School; installation of solar

equipment at Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School “Resolution Appropriating

$6,275,000 for Various School Improvement Projects; and Authorizing the Issue of Bonds

and Notes in the Same to Finance Said Appropriation”. Therefore, he stated they believed

the town has bonded enough money to cover the State’s increase requirements. He stated the

Finance Committee hoped to have more information at their September 21, 2022 to make a

recommendation to the Town Council.

RESULT:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

Councilor Paul stated at their August 1, 2022 meeting the LUPPW Committee discussed the

following: (1) “An Ordinance Regulating Parking of Commercial Vehicles on Public Streets

in Residential Zones and/or In Front of Residentially Used Properties” - Councilor Paul

explained in response to some residents’ concerns regarding safety issues pertaining to large

commercial vehicles being parked on residential streets which was impeding sightlines, and

other concerns, the LUPPW Committee forwarded a proposed Ordinance, as contained in the

draft dated June 8, 2022 to the Administration Committee for their review; (2) Commercial

activity at 576 Lantern Hill Road, relative to the Court’s Stipulated Agreement to determine

whether the matter was a Zoning issue or a Town legal matter - Councilor Paul reported that

the LUPPW Committee agreed by consensus that the 576 Lantern Hill Road matter was a

Zoning Issue; and therefore, the Town Council had no authority to take any action regarding

this land use matter; (3) Proposed Ledyard Garden - Councilor Paul noted the LUPPW

Committee discussed Mr. Moriarty’s proposal dated July 13, 2022 regarding a Ledyard

Garden and invited him to attend their September 19, 2022 meeting to further discuss Mr.

Moriarty’s proposal and to obtain clarification regarding his idea.

Councilor Rodriguez addressed the LUPPW Committee’s decision regarding the commercial

activity at 576 Lantern Hill Road. She stated although the LUPPW Committee discussed the

subject that they did not come to the conclusion Councilor Paul reported this evening.

Councilor Paul stated during their discussion the LUPPW Committee realized that the Town

Council had no authority on the pending legal matter.

RESULT:

Water Pollution Control Authority

Councilor Saums stated the WPCA met on August 23, 2022 and addressed the following: (1)

Tetrahedrane (THM) Levels - Routine flushing (twice per week) of specific fire hydrants and

blow-offs resulted in the THM Levels dropping just below the .081 milligrams per liter in both

water systems in July. Customers have been notified of this change thru their Billing Statement;

(2) Wastewater Treatment Plant agitator was not properly working and may need to be

redesigned at a cost of approximately $15,000. The WPCA planned to have an Engineer assess

the cause and recommend a solution; (3) Chidley Way Dry Main Connection - Groton Utilities

provided a cost estimate to connect the dry main on Chidley Way to the watermain on Gallup

Hill Road, as requested by the Chidley Way residents. The cost would be $500,000 for an 8-inch

main or $618,000 for a 12-inch main if they decided to install a larger main for future expansion

to Iron Street. If the testing of the dry main on Chidley Way was found not compliant with water

class pipe, the pipe must be replaced at an additional cost of $390,000. The WPCA would be

communicating this information to the Chidley Way residents. If the Chidley Way residents

were willing to support a portion of the cost the watermain project, the WPCA may come to the

Town Council to seek additional funds; (4) Demolition of Gallup Hill Water Storage Tank - The

demolition of the Gallup Hill Water Tank has been completed; (5) Ledyard Center Water Tank

Painting - To-date no estimates to paint the Ledyard Center Water Tank (Route 117) have been

received. Groton Utilities continues to pursue companies to provide cost estimates to paint the

top/roof of the Ledyard Center Water Storage Tank. Calls to painters were not being returned;

(6) Wastewater Pump - The installation of the Smith and Loveless Pump was completed in

mid-August, 2022. However, the delivery of the pump has been delayed to October, 2022; (7)

Ledyard Center Sewer Line Extension Project - Multi-Model Pathway Project - The Engineering

Plans for the Ledyard Center Sewer Line Extension Project - Multi-Model Pathway Project have

been completed. The Plans will be sent for an Agency review before soliciting competitive bids.

RESULT:

Economic Development Commission

Councilor Paul stated the EDC met on September 6, 2022 and discussed the following: (1)

Continuing to work on their Strategic Plan; (2) Sunnyside Diner in Gales Ferry Ribbon Cutting

was held on July 27, 2022; (3) Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings, with dates to be announced were

as follows: Portalina Restaurant, My Pets World, Lucille’s Café, Costal Mud Works Pottery

Studio, Lucky’s Nail Salon & Spa under new ownership, and Mohegan Trading Store; (3)

Arc of Eastern Connectictut Donation Station Program - Arc supports individuals with

disabilities. Arc was looking to place bottle recycling bins at various locations. The bottle

return fees would be collected to support Arc. There would be two size bins and most

communities were participating in the program. The EDC discussed the following potential

locations for the Arc Bottle Recycling Bins: Transfer Station, Ocean State Job Lot or CVS in

Gales Ferry. More information can be found at their website at:

<https://www.thearcect.org/>

RESULT:

Senior Citizens Commission

Councilor Rodriguez stated the Senior Citizens Commission met on August 24, 2022. and she

reported: (1) Covid Vaccine Clinic - Wednesday, September 28, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00

p.m.; (2) Flu Vaccine Clinic -Wednesday, October 5, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Bring your

insurance cards. For those who have do not have insurance the cost was $20.00; (3) Senior

Center Power Washing - Public Works power washed the Senior Center Building and expanded

the front entrance. The Senior Citizens Commission thanked Mayor Allyn and the Public Works

Department.

RESULT:

Agricultural Commission

Councilor Rodriguez stated the Commission has scheduled a joint meeting for Tuesday October

18, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Annex Building to meet with other Land Use

Commissions (Conservation Commission, Planning & Zoning Commission, Inland Wetlands

and Watercourses Commission). The joint meeting would focus on common issues to become

aware of the goals that could benefit more than one Commission for both the short-term and

long-term objectives. The Agricultural Commission would like to host this type of joint meeting

on an annual or biannual basis.

RESULT:

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission 9/14/2022

Councilor Paul noted the IWWC met on September 6, 2022 at which Weston & Sampson

Engineers presented their Application for the Multi-Model Pathway (Trail and Sidewalk

Extension Project) for Colonel Ledyard Highway. Of the 3.65 acres of disturbance only about

18,000 square feet was in the wetland regulated area. The only impacted areas were 120 square

feet of permanent wetland in one area and 570 square feet of permanent wetland in another area.

With regard to the impact to water quality and potential runoff new catch basins and a

hydrodynamic separator would be installed to filter out sediments and other substances. The

Plan also included detention basins to naturally filter the water. The IWWC voted to classify the

Application as a Class B Nonsignificant Activity and they also approved the Wetlands

Application.

RESULT:

Conservation Commission 10/12/2022

10.

Councilor Rodriguez stated the Conservation Commission met on September 13, 2022 and she

noted Commissioner David Holdridge attended the meeting and presented a proposal for the

Conservation Commission to apply for an Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition

(OSWA) Grant. She stated Mr. Holdridge has done so much for Ledyard, noting that he served

on the Town Council for sixteen years and has been instrumental in the development of the

Tri-Town Trail (Bluff Point to Preston Plains Park). She congratulated Mr. Holdridge for all that

he has done for the Town, noting that that everyone was very happy to see him and wished him

good health in the future.

RESULT:

XII. REPORT OF THE MAYOR

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Commercial activity at 576 Lantern Hill Road,

relative to the Court’s Stipulated Agreement - Mayor Allyn noted Councilor Paul’s LUPPW

Committee Report earlier this evening and Councilor Rodriguez’s comments regarding the

Lantern Hill property. He urged caution regarding the discussion of the 576 Lantern Hill

Road, explaining that this was a pending legal zoning matter. He stated the Town’s Land Use

Attorney was handling the matter and he stated the matter would likely go back to court. He

stated should anyone involve themselves in the matter they would most likely be called into

court; (2) Cashman Dredging and Marine Contracting proposed Solid Waste Facility at the

former Dow Chemical Site on Route 12, in Gales Ferry - Mayor Allyn stated his first and

only meeting to date with Jay Cashman and his Team was on August 3, 2022. He stated

because there was no pending Application before the Town there was little to no discussion

on the matter. He stated other than the fact that Mr. Cashman owned the former Dow

Chemical property on Route 12 in Gales Ferry, that there was nothing regarding the proposed

development with the town. He stated to meet the Department of Energy and Environmental

Protection (DEEP) requirements Mr. Cashman held an Environmental Justice Informational

Forum on July 18, 2022 at the Ledyard Middle School. Mayor Allyn stated he understood

that there were some frustrations surrounding the property and with what was going on.

However, he stated because there was no Town Application pending there was nothing for

the town to look at to be able to ask questions. Therefore, he asked that residents to be

patient, noting when the time was right more information would come forward; (3) United

States Coast Guard Academy 232nd Birthday Celebration - Mayor Allyn stated he attended

the Celebration at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, noting there was a lot of

positive activity in terms of renovations and construction; (4) Road Surfacing Work

continues - Mayor Allyn noted Oak Hills Trail and sections from Whalehead Road from

Route 214 to Sandy Hollow Road and several smaller roads were on the list for work before

the paving season ends this year; (5) GovDeals.com Surplus Sale - Mayor Allyn stated he

conducted a Surplus Sale for the Board of Education using the on-line Gov Deals.com site,

noting they had a lot of cafeteria equipment to sell; (6) National Opioid Settlement - Mayor

Allyn stated the National Prescription Opiate Litigation Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee

confirmed that the $26 billion global opioid settlements were finalized with the “Big Three”

drug distributors - AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health, and McKesson and opioid

manufacturer Johnson & Johnson for the participation of litigating local governments

nationwide. He stated as part of this settlement that Ledyard would be receiving $8,748.22 in

their first payment. He stated Ledyard would be receiving four payments from the Global

Opioid Settlement Fund. He noted that he forwarded the fifteen-page document that outlined

the terms of how the money could be used, noting that there were multiple options. He

explained that the town could use their funding to support programs provided by

organizations such as Ledge Light Health District Prevention Coalition or Southern

Regional Action Council (SERAC) as subrecipients; (7) Agreement on Food Vendor

Reciprocity - Mayor Allyn stated Ledge Light Health District and Uncas Health have entered

into a ten-year Agreement on Food Vendor Reciprocity. He explained that the Agreement

would allow businesses licensed by either Health District to do business in each other’s

district, noting that both Health Districts hold the Food Vendors to same high standards; (8)

School(s) Consolidation-Improvement Projects (Middle School and Gallup Hill School) -

Mayor Allyn stated another meeting was held with the General Contractor O&G Industries,

Colliers Project Leaders, Superintendent of Schools Mr. Jason Hartling, Finance Director

Matthew Bonin, and former PMBC Chairman Steve Juskiewicz to discuss the Change

Orders. He stated they followed-up the meeting at the Middle School at 7:00 a.m. on

September 7, 2022, where they reviewed the issues with the Audit Team noting they saw two

large trash cans collecting rainwater in the hallway on the third floor of the school; and there

were other locations where they saw water running down the classroom walls causing the

paint to peel off the walls, and heating and cooling issues (one classroom was 87 degrees and

very humid and on other days there were classrooms that were 50 degrees). He stated it was

disheartening to see the many issues in the brand-new wing of Middle School. He stated after

they stop the flow of water that there would need to be remediation work to correct the

internal issues. He stated Colliers Project Leaders, who the Town hired for the State Audit

preparations, was doing an outstanding job and they hoped to get the issues rectified; (9)

Nuclear Safety Desktop Drill - Mayor Ally stated on August 30, 2022 he participated in the

Nuclear Safety Desktop Drill as a precursor for the practice Drill that would take place at the

end of the September. He stated the evaluated Drill has been scheduled for November 2,

2022, which was the same day as the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM)

Annual Convention. Therefore, he asked whether Chairman Dombrowski would be available

to participate in the Drill. Chairman Dombrowski stated he would be available on November

2, 2022; (10) Stormwater Utility - Mayor Allyn stated he attended a Stormwater Utility

Meeting with Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin. He explained the

Stormwater Utility would annually bill every property owner, including non-profit

organizations, who had impervious surfaces, which would include houses, pools, sheds,

barns, church roofs, parking areas, etc. He stated he had reservations regarding the

Stormwater Utility because they were trying to veil this fee as a Utility, when it would be

viewed as another tax. He stated Municipalities would be required to use the Storm Water

Utility money for specific things such as repairing and cleaning storm drains, etc. He stated

New London started their Stormwater Utility last year and was currently the only

municipality in the State of Connecticut that has a Stormwater Utility. He noted for cities

such as New London or Norwich that a Stormwater Utility may make sense because nearly

50% of their property was non-taxable. He stated Ledyard was one of four towns that was

participating in the Stormwater Utility Study and that they had two more meetings

scheduled; (11) DEMIS Region 4 Annual Meeting on September 8, 2022 - Mayor Allyn

stated he attended the DEMIS Annual Meeting at the Southeastern Connecticut Council of

Government’s Meeting at which they budgeted the $343,000 Federal Funding to purchase

various equipment for Region 4; which included all of Eastern Connecticut. He stated the

Region agreed to purchase a second Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) to be positioned in

Voluntown, noting the first UTV that was purchased was positioned Putnam. He stated

funding would also be used to purchase large towable generators, light boards, command

tents that have heating and cooling, etc. He stated all the assets purchased with the federal

funding would be available to all towns in Region 4. He stated the equipment would be

housed in towns throughout the Region 4 District and each town would be responsible to

maintain the equipment housed in their town. He also explained that should equipment be

needed in another area that the town that housed the equipment would be responsible to

bring it to the town that was in-need of the equipment due to an emergency situation; (12)

Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG) Geographic Information

System (GIS) - Mayor Allyn noted Ms. Jessica was attending tonight’s meeting remotely. He

stated Ms. Cobb has taken on the role of the Geographic Information System (GIS) at the

Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG) noting her experience in GIS

would make her an asset to SCCOG; (13) State Hazardous Mitigation Climate Resiliency

Planning - Mayor Allyn stated he participated in the State Hazardous Mitigation Climate

Resiliency Planning Meeting. He noted although Ledyard was not significantly impacted by

Hazardous Mitigation he noted the following statistics: (a) Ledyard had a total of 34 Flood

Policies; (b) During the past twenty years Ledyard has had 24 claims totaling just under

$180,000; with three of the properties being in a flood prone area and they have had multiple

claims. The Rating showed that Ledyard was in a good place in terms of Hazardous

Mitigation, with very limited exposure; (13) Ledge Light Health District Prevention

Coalition Meeting - Mayor Allyn stated at the Ledyard Prevention Coalition Meeting they

discussed: (a) Inviting speakers to talk to the kids; (b) Anti Vaping Message; (c) Upcoming

Cannabis Vote on Ledyard’s November 8, 2022 Ballot; (14) Police Department Promotions

- Mayor Allyn stated he attended the Police Department’s Promotion Ceremony on

September 13, 2022 that took place at the Ledyard Senior Center. He announced Sergeant

Muench was promoted to Lieutenant; and Officer Pudvah was promoted to Sergeant. He

noted the Police Department had 22 Officers, which included 1 Detective, 5 Sergeants, 1

Lieutenant, 1 Captain and 1 Chief of Police; (14) Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

Dispatch Consoles - Mayor Allyn stated the Dispatch Consoles in the EOC that were

purchased using the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding have been installed under

budget and were fully operational; (15) New Zoning Regulations - Mayor Allyn stated after

several public hearings the Planning & Zoning Commission approved the New Zoning

Regulations at their September 8, 2022 meeting. The New Zoning Regulations would

become effective on September 28, 2022. The Zoning Regulations would be available on the

town’s website tomorrow.

Questions to the Mayor

Councilor Saums congratulated Lieutenant Muench on his promotion to Lieutenant and

Officer Pudvah on his promotion to Lieutenant that took place on September 13, 2022. He

stated the promotions were well deserved, noting that they were both fine Officers.

Councilor Saums addressed the Hazardous Mitigation Plan, noting a number of years ago a

resident, who lived on Military Highway in Gales Ferry, asked him whether Ledyard was

planning for the rising of ocean levels; and that the resident also questioned what would

happen to the town. Mayor Allyn stated the State had a Hazardous Mitigation projected map

going out to the year 2050. He stated the scalable map showed the frost level would be

reduced from 121 to 80 which indicated that there was substantial global warming

happening. He also noted that the map specifically showed three properties that would be

affected which were located at the end of Military Highway and were inside the North Gate

of the Navy Subbase. He stated he would provide the Town Council a copy of the Hazardous

Mitigation projected map. Councilor Saums stated he was pleased to hear that the State was

considering these issues and were actively working on them.

Chairman Dombrowski addressed the upcoming Nuclear Safety Drills (practice drill and

evaluated drill) and he stated that he would be available to step in for the Mayor. Mayor

Allyn stated Director of Emergency Management Jim Mann would be pleased that Chairman

Dombrowski would be available for the Drills.

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

None.

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

Administration Committee

MOTION to appoint Mr. James Awrach (R) 1538 Route 12 Unit #30, Gales Ferry, to the

Planning & Zoning Commission, as a Regular Member to complete a three (3) year term ending

October 31, 2023 filling a vacancy left by Ms. Scanlon.

Moved by Councilor Irwin, seconded by Councilor Saums

Discussion: Councilor Irwin noted that Ms. Scanlon resigned from the Planning & Zoning

Commission effective July 20, 2022 because she was moving out of town.

Chairman Dombrowski stated Mr. Awrach has been serving on the Planning & Zoning

Commission as an Alternate Member. He noted in an e-mail dated July 21, 2022 Planning &

Zoning Commission Chairman Capon requested Mr. Awrach be moved from an Alternate

Member to a Regular Member to fill Ms. Scanlon’s vacancy.

VOTE:6- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Whit Irwin

RESULT:

MOVER:

Bill Saums

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Ms. Jessica Cobb (D) 7 Whippoorwill Drive, Gales Ferry, to the Planning

& Zoning Commission, as an Alternate Member to complete a three (3) year term ending

December 31, 2022 filling a vacancy left by Mr. Awrach.

Moved by Councilor Irwin, seconded by Councilor Rodriguez

Discussion: Councilor Irwin stated Ms. Cobb has been an active member in the community and

that she has expressed an interest in serving on the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Councilor Saums stated Ms. Cobb was attending tonight’s meeting remotely, and he thanked her

for serving the community, noting with her background in land use that she would be an asset to

the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Councilor Rodriguez stated Ms. Cobb has a great resume, noting her background would make

her a great addition to the Planning & Zoning Commission. She stated Ms. Cobb has a Bachelors

of Science in Geosciences and a Certificate of Achievement in Inland Wetland Agency

Comprehensive Training Program. She thanked Ms. Cobb for stepping forward to serve on the

Planning & Zoning Commission.

VOTE: 6- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Whit Irwin

RESULT:

MOVER:

Gary Paul

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

Finance Committee

MOTION to authorize the Mayor to enter into an Interlocal Agreement and sign a “Southeastern

Connecticut Special Response Team Agreement” as presented in the draft dated August 10,

2022.

DRAFT: 8/10/2022

SOUTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT

SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM AGREEMENT

WHEREAS, Section 7-148 cc of the Statutes of the State of Connecticut authorizes

municipalities to enter into interlocal agreements; and

WHEREAS, the undersigned municipalities find that the deployment of a highly trained and

skilled special response team coupled with a crisis negotiation team can substantially reduce

the risk of injury or loss of life to citizens, police officers, criminal suspects and persons in

crisis; and

WHEREAS, the undersigned municipalities recognize the inherent manpower and training

demands associated with special response and crisis negotiation teams and agree that it is in

the best interest of the participating municipalities to share manpower, resources, and

equipment associated with special law enforcement responses; and

WHEREAS, the undersigned municipalities find that an interlocal agreement is beneficial in

order to protect the safety and well-being of the citizens of the respective municipalities; and

WHEREAS, the undersigned municipalities wish to cooperate on providing police services

and in pursuing grants and raising monies to obtain capital resources in furtherance of these

goals under the terms of this agreement;

NOW, THEREFORE, the undersigned municipalities, acting by their respective chief

executive officers, duly authorized, mutually agree, pursuant to this Interlocal agreement

(hereafter, "Agreement") to establish the Southeastern Connecticut Special Response Team

(hereafter "SCSRT") in accordance with the following:

ARTICLE ONE: Provision of Personnel and Equipment

1.The chief executive officers of the undersigned municipalities hereby delegate to the chiefs

of police of their respective municipalities the authority to determine when the provision of

police personnel and equipment best serves the purposes of this agreement.

2.The participating chiefs, hereinafter collectively designated and referred to as the "Board",

shall meet periodically as determined by the needs of the Unit, but at least once per year, and

each Chief of Police shall have an equal vote on decisions affecting the administration of the

SCSRT.

3.The chiefs of police, collectively, as the decision-making authority, have the responsibility

for the coordination of grant applications and the administration of funding awards and

other initiatives.

4.The Board anticipates and agrees to make resources available for at least one full or partial

deployment per quarter of personnel and equipment pursuant to this agreement for the

duration of this agreement. Additional deployments are authorized, without further action,

by the mutual consent of the participating municipalities.

5.During the deployment of personnel and equipment pursuant to this agreement, the

officers so deployed shall be deemed members of their respective departments acting to

further the goals of this agreement and each shall have the same powers, duties, privileges

and immunities as are conferred on the police officers of the municipality in whose

jurisdiction the Unit or any of its officers is operating.

6.During a SCSRT emergency deployment, it is expected that the undersigned municipalities

shall provide at a minimum the following quantity of personnel and equipment:

One or more specially trained and equipped police officers and one or

more marked and/or unmarked police vehicles.

7. A municipality may elect not to participate in a deployment if it has a good faith reason to

do so. However, each municipality, in its discretion, may determine the extent of its

participation in any deployment through the specific assignment of personnel and

equipment.

8. The Board shall appoint collectively a supervisor from one of the participating departments

to function as the SCSRT Team Commander. The Team Commander must at least hold

the rank of sergeant in his/her department. The Board acknowledges appointment of a

Unit Commander is necessary to maintain continuity of the unit and its members especially

in the case of an emergency deployment. It will be preferable that the Team Commander

have experience and training in the area of tactical command. The Team Commander shall

have the authority to appoint assistant team leaders as necessary.

9. The SCSRT Commander will act as the liaison between the departments for all activities of

the unit.

10. During each full deployment, the host municipality, which is the municipality requesting

the services, shall make every effort to provide a sergeant or higher-ranking officer to

coordinate operations with the SCSRT Team Commander while in the field.

ARTICLE TWO: Duties of Personnel

1. The Chief of Police or designee in the host municipality shall retain ultimate responsibility

for operational decisions and act as incident commander during any operation or team

deployment.

2. Each officer assigned to the SCSRT shall wear the unit's approved uniform.

3. All custodial arrests or investigations shall be processed in a manner designated by the

host agency.

4. In the case of a planned deployment for a warrant service or other planned event, the

host agency shall prepare and distribute to all participating officers an operations plan

for each deployment of a non-emergency nature.

ARTICLE THREE: Reimbursement and Liability

1. Each participating municipality agrees that it shall be responsible for its respective police

department expenses incurred while participating in each deployment, whether that

municipality's equipment and personnel was operating within or without its own

jurisdiction. Any entitlement to reimbursement, except as stated herein, is hereby waived by

the chief executive officer of each municipality that is a party to this agreement. Such

expenses may include, but are not limited to:

a) The actual payroll (including overtime) cost to the municipalities of all personnel

assigned;

b) The replacement cost of all equipment lost, destroyed or made unavailable for further

service as a result of proper use in a SCSRT deployment. Nothing in this section

waives a municipality's right to seek reimbursement for equipment lost or destroyed

negligently, recklessly, willfully, or purposefully.

c) Fuel and maintenance for police vehicles;

d) The cost of repairing damaged equipment;

e) Awards for death, disability or injury to personnel arising as a result of services

provided pursuant to this agreement to the extent that such awards exceed Worker's

Compensation coverage;

f) Worker's Compensation claims as set forth in C.G.S. 31-275, et seq.;

g) Survivor's benefits as set forth in C.G.S. 7-323.

2. In the event outside funding becomes available to pay for the expenses of the

municipalities operating under this agreement such funds shall be allocated among the

participating municipalities on a proportional cost basis agreed to in advance. This does

not include subrogation. The proportional cost basis may be adjusted to each

deployment or initiative depending on the location of the host, number of personnel

assigned to the deployment by each agency, etc.

3. The services performed under this agreement shall be deemed for public and

governmental purposes, and all immunities from liability enjoyed by the local

government within its boundaries shall extend to its participation under this agreement

outside its boundaries.

4. Each municipality shall indemnify and hold harmless the other municipalities to this

agreement from all claims, including, but not limited to, third party claims, for property

damage or personal injury (including death) which may arise out of and be attributable to

a municipality or to the actions of those acting on behalf of each municipality. Each

town shall be liable only for their own percentage of negligence as determined by the

courts or a jury.

ARTICLE FOUR: Appointment of a Depository Municipality, Pursuit of Regional

Grant Initiatives, And Revenue Sharing/Usage

1. Appointment of a Depository Municipality; Functions of Depository Municipality

a) The Board of SCSRT shall mutually select a depository municipality from one of the

members of SCSRT which shall receive and hold in trust for SCSRT all monies

obtained by SCSRT from grants or other sources. Said monies shall be held in a

special revenue account (hereafter, the "SCSRT Joint Account") or an account with like

budgetary permissions that will allow the convenient use of said funds as needed by

SCSRT. The depository municipality agrees, in furtherance of the goals of this

agreement, to pass any ordinance or resolution required by its own municipal Charter in

order to effectuate the creation of said SCSRT Joint Account.

b) Upon a request from any member municipality, the depository municipality shall

provide an accounting of all funds contained in the SCSRT Joint Account.

c) Upon affirmative vote of two-thirds of the member municipalities, the depository

municipality may be changed. Upon a vote to change the depository municipality,

the prior depository municipality shall, within 60 days of said vote, turn over all

funds and provide a full accounting to the successor depository municipality.

d) In the event that a depository municipality withdraws from SCSRT or no longer

wishes to serve in said capacity, a successor depository municipality shall be

appointed by the members of SCSRT. At such time, the prior depository

municipality shall, within 60 days of said appointment, turn over all funds and

equipment purchased with funds from the Shared Revenue Account to the successor

municipality. The prior depository municipality shall, within 60 days, provide a full

accounting, and an itemized list of transferred equipment to the successor depository

municipality.

2. Pursuit of Regional Grant Initiatives, Development of Capital Goals

a) It shall be an essential function and purpose of SCSRT to pursue grants and other

initiatives to raise monies in order to purchase capital resources to further the

purposes of this agreement.

b) From time to time, and as necessary, SCSRT shall meet to develop a short-term (1

year) and long term (5-year) capital plan for the SCSRT. The monies raised pursuant

to this agreement shall be utilized to further the capital goals set by SCSRT.

3. Revenue Sharing

a) All revenue raised and remitted to the SCSRT Joint Account shall be shared and

used for the collaborative and joint purposes of the SCSRT. Nothing in this

provision shall be construed to conflict with or alter the reimbursement or funding

provisions of Article III regarding deployments.

b) Expenditures from the SCSRT Joint Account of $500 or less can be made by the

Team Commander, without prior approval. All expenditures greater than $500

from the SCSRT Joint Account shall require the unanimous vote of all SCSRT

member municipalities in writing via electronic mail (e-mail).

c) Any property obtained with funds from the SCSRT Joint Account shall be

considered property of the depository municipality, held for the benefit of itself and

all other SCSRT municipalities. No property obtained with monies from the

SCSRT Joint Account or with funds attributable to said account shall be sold,

modified, gifted, or otherwise transferred without the unanimous vote of all

member municipalities in writing.

d) Any depository municipality which misappropriates funds from the SCSRT Joint

Account or otherwise disposes of property obtained with SCSRT funds in violation

of this section shall be liable to all of the other member municipalities for the loss

to SCSRT and any and all costs, including court costs and attorney's fees, incurred

in recovering said funds or property from the depository municipality or any other

third party.

e) Funds from the SCSRT Joint Account are intended for equipment and services for

the unit and shall not be used to pay salary or overtime to SCSRT members.

ARTICLE FIVE: Miscellaneous

1. The Chief of Police of the municipality providing assistance may, if necessary to protect

the safety and well-being of said municipality, recall any personnel or equipment

provided pursuant to this agreement.

2. Withdrawal from this agreement by any municipality hereto shall be made by thirty (30)

days' written notice to all other municipalities but shall not terminate the agreement

among the remaining municipalities.

3. If any provision of this agreement shall be unlawful, void, or for any reason

unenforceable, then that provision shall be deemed severable from this agreement and

shall not affect the validity and enforceability of any remaining provisions.

4. This Agreement contains the entire understanding between the parties hereto and

supersedes any and all prior understandings, negotiations, and agreements whether

written or oral, between them respecting the written subject matter, hereof.

5. This Agreement, to the extent permitted herein, shall inure to the benefit of and be

binding upon the parties hereto and any and all successors and assigns.

6. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws and

relevant ordinances and regulations of the State of Connecticut and the participating

municipalities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this agreement as follows:

TOWN OF LEDYARD

By: _______________________________

Frederic B. Allyn. III, Mayor

TOWN OF WATERFORD

By: __________________________________

Robert J. Brule, First Selectman

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated the proposed “Southeastern Connecticut Special

Response Team Agreement” was a well thought out, lengthy document and was between the

towns of Ledyard and Waterford at this time. He stated Ledyard has been wanting to have a

Regional Response Team for quite a while and that Police Chief John Rich initiated the idea

and that the Town of Waterford has agreed to participate in Special Response Team. He stated

the goal was to have more than two towns participate in Special Response Team. He explained

the function of the Special Response Team was for towns to share resources including

manpower, equipment, and crisis negotiation teams associated with special law enforcement

responses, if they had a significant and expanding event that was more than one town could

handle. He stated the Special Response Team was similar to the Mutual Aid Agreement

between Fire Departments in the region.

Councilor Saums went on to note that the Agreement included language to:

· Allow the participating towns to separate from the Agreement with a thirty (30)

day notice; and

· Apply for grant funding.

Councilor Saums stated under the Agreement Ledyard Police Officers would be going out of

town, as needed, for training; and Waterford Police Officers would be coming to Ledyard for

training. He commented on the critical importance to provide a regional presence and to be ready

to respond to regional events, should they occur, noting when the country was attacked 21 years

ago on September 11, 2001 the region realized that our emergency response teams were too

separate and too siloed, stating they had a difficult time coordinating with each other.

VOTEA:p6p-ro0ved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to grant a bid waiver in the amount of $34,000 to Physicians One Urgent Care for

firefighter physicals and to authorize the Mayor to sign an MOU with Physicians One Urgent

care to provide physicals for all town firefighters.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated using Physicians One Urgent Care to provide physicals for

all town firefighters would be a benefit to the town, noting that the Firefighters would have more

access to getting physicals at a reasonable cost. He stated Administrator of Emergency Services

Steve Holyfield was present this evening and he deferred to him to provide the background

regarding this request.

Administrator of Emergency Services Steve Holyfield stated about two years ago, they began

discussing the availability of physicals for existing and new candidate firefighters for the fire

departments ( LFD/GFFC/TOLFD). He explained that one of the issues they found was the

limited availability of physicals, nothing that the old practice was to have a physical clinic at a

Ledyard School once per month from September to June. However, he stated the lack of summer

appointments and the fixed time (normally 3:30 on a weekday) effected volunteer recruitment

and retention negatively.

Mr. Holyfield went on to state in response to Requests for Proposals - RFP #2023-003

(Firefighter Physical Exams) the town only received two responses as follows: (1) Physicians

One Urgent Care; and (2) Site Med, noting that it appears that Yale did not want to get involved

with the bid process. He explained Site Med only offered a clinic style of service where the

firefighters would have to attend on fixed dates. He stated Physicians One was not only the low

bidder, they were also their preferred provider because they offered physicals by appointment,

including Saturdays, at any of their locations including Norwich and Groton, maximizing

appointment options for the town’s current and future members.”.

Mr. Holyfield continued by stating $38,000 was included in the emergency services budget for

physicals and he explained that he opened a Purchase Order for $4,000 to pay for physicals

starting on July 1st until they had a provider in place. He noted the average cost of a physical

was about $500.00. He stated the cost of a physical for a new volunteer firefighter was about

$587.00; which included a chest x-ray and the annual physicals for existing firefighters was

about $413.00, which averaged out to about $500.00 per physical. He went on to explain that

chest x-rays would be repeated about every four years, explaining that there were some pricing

differences for interior and exterior personnel and different services based on new recruits,

existing personnel, age, etc.

Mr. Holyfield addressed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and he stated after the

September 7, 2022 Finance Committee meeting he contacted Physicians One to discuss the

MOU. He stated the premature MOU would provide a thirty-six-month (3-year) Agreement with

no cost increase, and two individual one-year renewals, providing for a five-year fixed price. He

stated the benefit of providing routine physicals would help limit the town’s liability, explaining

that the physicals would help the volunteers to maintain their CDL Licenses to operate the fire

apparatus. He concluded by stating because the required three bids were not received that a Bid

Wavier has been requested in accordance with Ordinance #200-001 (rev.1) “An Ordinance for

Purchasing

VOTEA:p6p-ro0ved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to grant a bid waiver to A & E Services Group, LLC of Cheshire, CT due to receiving

fewer than three bids, as a result of RFP 2023-01 (Administrative and Technical Support for the

Town’s Small Cities Program Income Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program); in accordance

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

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated the town has been involved in the Small Cities Program

Income Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program for over a decade. He stated the program provided

no interest loans to residents who qualified for certain home repairs such as the replacement of a

furnace, new roof, septic system, new roof, etc. He stated Wagner & Associates was the

contractor that had managed the program for the town for many years. He stated Mr. Peter Testa

spun off of Wagner & Associates and started his own company (A&E Services Group , LLC).

He stated A & E Services Group, LLC was the sole respondent to RFP 2023-01 (Administrative

and Technical Support for the town’s Small Cities Program Income Housing Rehabilitation Loan

Program). He stated A&E Services Group, LLC, Peter Testa would act as the General Contractor

on the projects, and that he handled all the paperwork which involved placing the lien on the

property.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated a few years ago Wagner & Associates stopped providing services to

manage the Small Cities Program Income Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program. He stated

because Mr. Testa enjoyed doing this type of work that he has continued providing these services

under A&E Services Group LLC. He stated this would be Ledyard’s second contract with A&E

Services Group LLC to perform this work.

VOTAEp:6p-ro0ved and so declared

MOTION to approve a bid waiver to CLA Engineers in the amount of $25,100 for technical

services related to streamlining and consolidation of ordinances and creation of technical

standards for roads, drainage, and other work in the Town rights-of way.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated he recalled serving on the Land Use/Planning/Public Works

Committee with Chairman Dombrowski and Mayor Allyn, III, a number of years ago during

which time they discussed the need to update Ordinance #300-25 (formerly Ordinance #45) “An

Ordinance Regulating the Addition of Any New Street or Highway to the Highway System of the

Town of Ledyard”. He also stated prior to his passing in 2014 that Mr. Bob Lamb regularly

attended the LUPPW Committee meetings and the Town Council meetings to talk about the

need and the importance to update Road Ordinance.

Councilor Saums went on to explain in rewriting technical regulations and specifications for

engineering projects that you need to be undisturbed. He stated the town did not have the

resources to dedicate to this work, noting that Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve

Masalin wears many hats; and although he has started the work to update the Ordinances that

Mr. Masalin does not have time to dedicate to this type of project. Therefore, he stated he was

pleased that the town was finally going to update Ordinance #300-25 (formerly Ordinance #45)

“An Ordinance Regulating the Addition of Any New Street or Highway to the Highway System of

the Town of Ledyard”.

Chairman Dombrowski stated that the Planning & Zoning Commission also attempted to

update/rewrite Ordinance #300-25 (formerly Ordinance #45) “An Ordinance Regulating the

Addition of Any New Street or Highway to the Highway System of the Town of Ledyard”; noting

that they were also unable to complete the task.

Councilor Saums concluded his remarks by stating because CLA Engineers was currently

operating under a Standing Bid Waiver as the Town’s technical agent in providing substantial

assistance in the management of administrative efforts toward compliance with the Municipal

Separate Storm System (MS4) program that Mr. Masalin has requested a Bid Waiver to engage

CLA Engineers directly for their technical work related to rewriting Town’s road and drainage

ordinances, noting a significant portion of updating the technical standards of the town’s

ordinances overlapped with the MS4 area.

VOTE: 6- 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to authorize the BOE to spend up to $146,558 from Account #21070101-58261 (BOE

CNR Ag-Science) as outlined in the Board of Education Fiscal Year 2021/2022 Supplemental

Spending Plan for Agri-Science Program.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ryan

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated the Board of Education receives state funding and tuition

revenue from out-of-town students that support the Vo-Ag Science Program. He stated for the

Fiscal Year 2021/2022 the town received $997,428 in the Agricultural Technology Education

(ASTE) grant from the State, which was $301,692 more than the amount of revenue that was

included in the budget. He stated the ASTE Funding must be spent on the Ag-Science program;

and he explained rather than use the funding for on-going operational expenses that Ledyard’s

practice has been to spend the funds on capital or one-time expenses.

Councilor Saums continued by providing some background noting that the ASTE Funding

comes into the town in three payments. He stated at their March 9, 2022 meeting the Town

Council authorized the Board of Education to spend 695,736 of the ASTE Funding in

accordance with their Spending Plan. He stated the Town Council’s action also included

transferring and the remaining balance in the amount of $301,692 from Account

10188210-59300 (Transferred Funds) to Account #2101402-49002 (CNR Transfers In). He

stated in a letter dated September 2, 2022 the Board of Education submitted a Fiscal Year

2021/2022 Supplemental ASTE Spending Plan in the amount of $146,558; as listed in the

“ASTE Wish List” above. He stated that he was comfortable with allocating the ASTE Funding

as recommended by the Ag-Science Director.

VOTAEp:6p-ro0ved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Tim Ryan

SECONDER:

AYE:

Dombrowski, Irwin, Paul, Rodriguez, Ryan, and Saums

Ingalls, Marshall, and McGrattan

EXCUSED:

General Business

Discuss Work Session Items as time permits

None.

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Rodriguez moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Irwin

VOTEA:p6p-ro0ved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

________________________________

Transcribed by Roxanne M. Maher

Administrative Assistant to the Town Council

I, Kevin J. Dombrowski, Chairman of the Ledyard Town Council,

hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and

correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Town Council

Meeting held on September 14, 2022.

___________________________________________

Kevin J. Dombrowski, 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.