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, October 12, 2022

7:00 PM

Council Chambers - Town Hall Annex

In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex

Remote: Information noted below:

Join Zoom Meeting from your Computer, Smart Phone or Tablet:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81027468671?

pwd=a3BobVRMeExTSWFEWkFXdW9vS1JxZz09

Or by Audio Only: Telephone: +1 646 558 8656; Meeting ID: 810 2746 8671; Passcode:

050351

CALL TO ORDER

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

Hall Annex Building.

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

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

Councilor Whit Irwin

Present:

Councilor Whit Irwin

Councilor Mary K. McGrattan

Councilor Gary Paul

Councilor S. Naomi Rodriguez

Councilor Bill Saums

Councilor John Marshall

Councilor Tim Ryan

Excused:

Councilor Tim Ryan

IV.

PRESENTATIONS

Chairman Dombrowski presented a “Congressional Record - House of Representatives

Proceedings and Details of the 117Th Congress, Second Session Honoring the Life of Linda C.

Davis” who passed on December 12, 2021 after a courage battle with cancer. Congressman Joe

Courtney asked that his colleagues in the House of Representatives join him in honoring Linda’s

life through the Congressional Record “so that we all may better live up to the standards set by

her dedication to her family and community”. The Full Congressional Record dated January 3,

2022 would remain on display in the Ledyard Town Hall.

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

MINUTES

Mr. Tony Saccone, 29 Richard Road, Gales Ferry, Chief of the Gales Ferry Fire Company,

stated he was present this evening to support the purchase of a 3,000-gallon Tanker-Pumper

Fire Engine for the Ledyard Center Fire Company. He stated this was an important piece of

apparatus explaining that it brings water to the fire. He stated nearly half of Ledyard’s 42

square mile community does not have access to fire hydrants. He stated that he, Ledyard

Center Fire Chief Jon Mann, and Administrator of Emergency Services Steve Holyfield work

together to continuously assess the town’s fire service needs and adjust Fire Apparatus

Replacement Schedule, as needed. He stated in researching options to replace the Ledyard

Center Fire Department’s R-14 they found that a Tanker-Pumper Truck would best meet the

needs of the town. He stated currently the Gales Ferry Fire Department has a Tanker-Pumper

truck they bring to areas of Gales Ferry where they do not have fire hydrants. He stated the

purchase of this 3,000-gallon Tanker-Pumper would be used in the same manor in Ledyard.

He went on to explain in managing the fire apparatus fleet that the resources were shared

between the two fire companies in town, noting that the Tanker-Pumper Trucks would

respond to both fire districts where there were no fire hydrants. He urged the Town Council

to vote “Yes” on the purchase of the 3,000-gallon Tanker this evening.

VI.

COMMITTEE COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

None.

VII. COMMENTS OF TOWN COUNCILORS

Councilor Paul thanked Ms. Charlene Rand at the Sweet Hill Farm in Gales Ferry for her

assistance with the First Fruits of the Harvest event that was held on Saturday, October 8,

2022. He stated the program which included vendors and music focused on Faith and Mental

Health, noting it was well attended.

Councilor Paul continued by noting the First Responders Clam Chowder-Fish Fry that was

held on Sunday, October 10, 2022 was a great event. He thanked Councilor Saums, Police

Chief Rich and the Ledyard Police Department for all their work in planning and putting on

the event. He recognized the following Organizations for their involvement and help in

making the event a success: Boy Scout Troop #16 tended the fire at the Chowder House; the

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (MPTN) Police Department and Fire Department, and

the Ledyard Congregational Church for opening their doors to community.

Councilor Paul stated October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, noting he lost his

Grandmother to breast cancer. He stated one in eight women in the United States would be

diagnosed during their lifetime with cancer. He stated this year 43,000 women would die

from breast cancer in our country. He stated although rare, up-to 2,700 men would be

diagnosed with breast cancer. He stated bringing awareness to Breast Cancer was to

encourage early screening to improve survival rate. He stated the number of deaths from this

disease were coming down because of technology and treatments. He suggested those who

would like to donate; or would like more information to visit the National Breast Cancer

Organization or visit the Susan Koman Foundation.

Councilor Rodriguez thanked the Ledyard Police Department for their interaction with the

community at the September 30, 2022 Ice Cream Social they held at the Ledyard Senior

Citizens Center in preparation for the Mock Traffic Stop presentation that was held on

Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Fitch High School. She stated Police Departments from

Ledyard, Groton and Waterford participated in the Mock Traffic Stop and that it was well

attended by the community. She stated every time she attended a meeting with families who

have members with Autism that she learned something new, noting that the idea to host a

Mock Traffic Stop was suggested by a mother whose sone had Autism. She stated the Mock

Traffic Stop Programs was developed to help individuals with Autism, Deaf - Hearing

Impaired and New Drivers.

Councilor Rodriguez continued by noting that October was also Mental Health Awareness

Month and that Ms. Ann Dagel from Brian Healing Hearts - Suicide Prevention Foundation

would be attending the Town Council’s October 26, 2022 meeting to give a brief

presentation regarding depression, suicide prevention, and the programs available to help

assist individuals and families.

Councilor Saums addressed the First Responders Clam Chowder - Fish Fry that was held on

Sunday, October 9, 2022. He stated the event was great noting they had great weather, great

attendance and great food. He provided some background explaining the objective of the

“National Faith and Blue Weekend”(First Responders Clam Chowder Fish Fry) was to

pro-actively engage community members, faith-based organizations, civic organizations, and

law enforcement in activities to connect on a personal level and create a safer and stronger

community. He stated Chief Rich learned about the national program scheduled for the

weekend of October 7 - 10 at the Police Chief’s Association Meeting. He stated in thinking

about putting together an event for Ledyard that Chief Rich came up with the idea to

incorporate the Police Union Fish Fry with Ledyard Congregational Church Chowder. He

stated Chief Rich asked the Congregational Church to host the event and to make the

Chowder in the Chowder House. He stated it was a tremendous amount of work to organize

and host the First Responders Clam Chowder - Fish Fry in recognition of the “National Faith

and Blue Weekend”.

Councilor Saums stated he was struck by The Welcoming Statement Chief Rich gave before

the meal was served. He noted that Chief Rich remarked that “In Ledyard we feed everyone”

and he read the Webster Dictionary’s definition for “Community” as follows: “A feeling of

fellowship with others as a result of having common attitudes, interests, and goals”.

However, he stated Chief Rich noted that although Webster Dictionary’s definition was close

to defining Ledyard as a “community” that in his eyes the dictionary’s definition fell a little

short. He noted that Chief Rich stated in thinking about Ledyard that he would add “ People

who come together, support one another in times of crisis, sorrow or loss, that was what he

has seen in Ledyard…And that was why it was such an honor for all on the Ledyard Police

Department to serve this community”.

Councilor Saums went on to note that Chief Rich also mentioned during his opening remarks

that Ledyard was one of the greatest communities he has ever been a part of; and he thanked

the following people: Ms. Tammy Brannon and everyone at the Ledyard Congregational

Church, the Ledyard Town Council Community Relations Committee Gary Paul, Bill

Saums, and John Marshall, Police Sergeant Jason Pudvah and the Ledyard Police Union, the

Ledyard Center and Gales Ferry Fire Companies, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation

Police and Fire Departments, the Ledyard Boy Scout Troop #16; and Parks & Recreation

Director Scott Johnson, Jr. who provided support for the whole event, Senator Cathy Osten

for attending the event, Connecticut State Police Troop E Lieutenant Albert Gosselin, the

Congregational Church’s Chowder House Crew: Jim Ball, Scott Ingalls, Alex Dozier, Dolly

Haze, and Toby Duncan, Chaplin Bob Petrel, Recruit Matthew Burchell, and the One and

Only Sergeant Michael McKinney “Big Mac” for preparing the food for everyone. Councilor

Saums stated in closing Chief Rich asked that everyone enjoy the food, company and the

beautiful day. He stated Chief Rich then introduced Councilor Gary Paul who played a

beautiful rendition of “Amazing Grace”. Councilor Saums stated it was a great event.

Councilor McGrattan stated the Ledyard Rotary was once again sponsoring their Soctober

Drive. She explained during the month of October the Rotary was collecting new socks for

men, women and children. She stated the Rotary would distribute the socks to the Homeless

Shelter in New London and to the Malta Organization in Groton. She provided some

background regarding the Malta Organization, explaining that before there was a Shelter this

group of citizens began an effort to feed, clothe, and encourage the homeless who were

living on the streets and under the bridges in New London, recognizing the need to help

those in extreme poverty.

Councilor McGrattan went on to state that she attended the Ledyard Inter-Faith Emergency

Assistance Fund (LICEAF) meeting this morning at which Ledyard Social Services

Coordinator Kristen Chapman reported the Linda C. Davis Food Pantry has received a few

new patrons; and that her Office at the Town Hall was also an intake site for residents

seeking Rental and Utilities Assistance thru the Thames Valley Community Council for

Assistance (TVCCA) Program.

Chairman Dombrowski asked Councilor McGrattan where the drop off locations were for the

socks. Councilor McGrattan stated there were baskets to drop off socks at the Town Hall,

Ledyard Police Department, Parks Place Restaurant, REMAX Reality Office, Ledyard Senior

Center, Holdridges Home & Garden Center, and the Village Market.

Councilor Ingalls noted the most recent Town’s Committees/Commissions/Boards Vacancy

List included six vacancies on the Ledyard Beautification Committee. She noted this group

meets four times a year and it was a great Committee for someone who may be interested in

becoming more involved in the community to serve on. She also stated that there were a

number of vacancies on other committees and board. She explained that interested residents

could contact the Republican Town Committee, Democratic Town Committee or the Town

Council Office to obtain information. She explained because the town was still transitioning

to the new meeting portal that the on-line Appointment Applications would be available

soon. She stated the town’s residents were very generous in the time they volunteer to serve

the community.

Chairman Dombrowski addressed the importance for residents to become involved in their

community, noting that just about all of the members serving on the Town Council began by

volunteering to serve on some of the other various town committees.

VIII. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MOTION to approve the Town Council Regular Meeting Minutes of September 28, 2022

Moved by Councilor Rodriguez, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

S. Naomi Rodriguez

RESULT:

MOVER:

Andra Ingalls

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

IX.

COMMUNICATIONS

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

referrals listed.

Communications List October 12, 2022

RECEIVED AND FILED

RESULT:

REFERALS

XI.

COUNCIL SUB COMMITTEE, LIAISON REPORTS

Administration Committee

Councilor Ingalls stated the Administration Committee met earlier this evening and voted to

forward the following items to the Town Council: (1) Appointments - The Committee address a

number of both new and reappointments; (2) Clinician Job Description. She also noted that the

Committee had a number of items on tonight’s agenda.

RESULT:

Community Relations Committee

Councilor Paul stated the Community Relations Committee has not met since the last Town

Council meeting. He noted the Committee’s next meeting was scheduled for October 19, 2022 at

6:30 p.m. and he encouraged folks to join them.

RESULT:

Finance Committee

Councilor Saums stated the Finance Committee held their hybrid meeting on October 5, 2022.

He stated in addition to the items on tonight’s agenda the Committee discussed the following:

(1) Annual Audit Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022 - Councilor Saums stated Finance Director

Matthew Bonin reported that the Annual Audit work has begun; (2) American Rescue Plan

Act (ARPA) Funding - The Town has received the second and final tranche of ARPA funds.

The Finance Committee planned to review the ARPA Projects with the Mayor at their

October 19, 2022 meeting regarding the approved ARPA Projects List, what has been spent,

and what the estimated costs for each project would be compared to the dollar amount that

was approved; (3) Board of Education $6,725,000 Various Projects Including School Roof

Projects - Councilor Saums stated the Committee continued to discuss a requirement by the

State for the to Town approve a new resolution setting an increased estimated per square foot

costs for the school roof projects. Details about this requirement have been limited, the

requirement was conveyed in a teleconference to the Board of Education and repeated

attempts by the Town and the Board of Education to obtain specifics from the State have

been unsuccessful. Some information was requested by the State this week, and efforts

continue to obtain a clearer picture of the requirement. Councilor Saums continued to

explain the State was also requiring that the Town Council acknowledge that the State would

only provide grant reimbursement on 75% of the cost of the Gales Ferry School. The State

was basing this reduction on their records which showed the school was not accepted until

2006, therefore, the State asserted that the school did not meet the State’s 20-year criteria for

full reimbursement; even though the Gales Ferry School project was completed in 1999 and

was 20-years old. Councilor Saums stated Superintendent of Schools Jason Hartling attended

the Finance Committee’s October 5, 2022 meeting and reported that he discovered

documents that indicated that the project was completed in September, 2001. Councilor

Saums stated because they have not received the requested information from the State that

the Town Council would not be acting on Old Business Item #1 this evening; (4) Public

Works Reserve Fund - The Committee continued to discuss setting up a reserve fund to

set-a-side a portion of the revenues received from the Transfer Station and Recycling to be

used for Public Works initiatives and capital improvements at the Transfer Station. Public

Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin was working with the Finance Director

Matthew Bonin to draft an Ordinance to support that recommendation.

RESULT:

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

Councilor Paul stated the LUPPW Committee met on October 3, 2022 and discussed the

following: (1) Park on East Drive (Christy Hill Park) -The lights have been connected to the

electricity and were now turned on. He stated work continues at the Park and that progress

was being made.

Councilor Rodriguez stated the residents were happy with the lights.

RESULT:

Liaison Reports

Housing Authority

Councilor McGrattan stated the Housing Authority met on October 3, 2022 and discussed the

following: (1) Annual Audit for Fiscal Year 2021/2022 has been completed. During the Housing

Authority’s meeting with the Audit Firm the Auditors congratulated the Housing Authority for their

positive net position; (2) Kings Corner Manor Improvements - At the end of October, 2022 the

Tenants would be meeting with the Contractors, who would be doing the improvement work to the

Apartments Units.

Conservation Commission 10/12/2022

Councilor McGrattan stated the Conservation Commission met on October 11, 2022 and voted to

accept the 2022 Ledyard Open Space Acquisition Plan. The Plan identified areas that need to be

protected and was a guide for future development.

REPORT OF THE MAYOR:

XII.

Mayor Allyn, III, reported on the following: (1) Ledyard Rotary Soctober - Mayor Allyn stated

Town Hall had a white laundry basket in the upstairs hallway which currently had five pairs of

socks. He stated he would like to see the basket full to the top before October 26, 2022 with socks

for men, woman, and children; (2) Police CALEA Accreditation Training - Mayor Allyn stated the

Ledyard Police Department was randomly selected to be the first Connecticut Police Department in

the State to be required to undergo the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies

(CALEA) Training this year. The Police Department would begin this training program on January

3, 2023. He stated the Police Department was currently taking actions to be fully prepared for the

Audit and Accreditation; (3) Annual Audit Fiscal Year June 30, 2022- Mayor Allyn stated Auditing

Firm CliftonLarsonAllen LLP have completed their work at the Town Hall and were currently

working at the Board of Education. He stated the Auditors were moving along quickly this year.

He stated once the Auditors complete their work on-sit at the Board of Education that they

would prepare their report, which would be presented to the Finance Committee; (4) Practice

Nuclear Regulatory - Millstone FEMA Drill - September 27, 2022 - Mayor Allyn stated Ledyard

received some feedback from the Controller/Evaluator which noted some minor issues that they

would like the town to address before the November 1, 2022 Evaluated Drill; (5) Road Surface

Rating and Paving Work - Mayor Allyn stated the BETA Group issued Ledyard a Road Surface

Rating (RSR) of 83.78 this past Spring. He stated the town’s road conditions had a strong

number based on a 100-rating scale. He stated the road paving season was winding down and

that he would provide a list of all the roads that were treated this year (milling and reclaimed,

crack sealed, micro surfaced, etc.); (6) Police Cruisers - Mayor Allyn stated the four newest Ford

Explorer Police Cruisers had a critical recall which required the vehicles to immediately be taken

off the road. He stated one cruiser has been returned to the fleet and the other three vehicles

should be coming back to Ledyard soon; (7) Events Magazine - Mayor Allyn stated Ledyard has

lost some of the advertisers that support the publication and some advertisers have reduced the

size of their ad (i.e., half page to sixth of a page). He stated the Events Magazine goes to all the

households and provided a lot of town information to residents. He stated if there were any

businesses that may be interested in advertising in this publication to contact him or his

Executive Assistant Kristen Chapman or anyone in Town Hall. He explained without the support

of their advertisers that they would either lose the number of content pages in the publication or

the town would have to pay more for the content pages; (8) Building Official - Mayor Allyn

stated he and Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG) Executive Director

began interviews today to replace the Building Official. He stated Mr. Tom Weber, who had

been serving as a Regional Building Official, took a serious fall and has been at Yale New

Haven Hospital for a number of weeks, noting that it was highly improbable that Mr. Weber

would be returning. He stated he was thankful for former Building Official Randy Dalton

helping out for a few weeks. He stated the town had a new commercial project in Gales Ferry,

north of McDonalds, that would be coming on-line, which would require a lot of inspection

work, in addition to the various house projects and other projects such as decks, sheds, pools. He

stated that they would do their best to try to get someone hired this week; (9) Whitford Brook

Bridge and Bush Pond Dam - Mayor Allyn stated Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve

Masalin has been instrumental in putting the State of Connecticut package together for Ledyard

to receive the $3 million grant that the State Bonded for these projects. He stated they hoped that

the final bridge design plan from the Engineering Firm would be provided soon; (10) Merge

Senior Citizens Commission and Parks & Recreation Commission - Mayor Allyn requested the

Town Council consider merging Ordinance #100-014 “An Ordinance Establishing a Parks and

Recreation Commission for the Town of Ledyard” and Ordinance #100-016 “An Ordinance

Establishing a Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of Ledyard”. He stated Parks &

Recreation has been operating in the building on Van Tassel Drive in Gales Ferry and working in

tandem with the Senior Citizens Center providing oversight of the facility. He noted Mr. Scott

Johnson, Jr. has been serving as the Director of both the Parks & Recreation and the Senior

Citizens for the past few years and he stated that it may be time to combine the two

Commissions. He explained Ordinance #200-009 Ordinance Providing for the Transfer of

Revenue from the Real Estate Conveyance Tax to the Park and Recreation Capital and

Non-Recurring Expense Fund”, calls for forty percent (40%) of the revenue received from

conveyance tax to be deposited into the Parks and Recreation Capital and Non-Recurring

Expense Fund. He stated by merging the Senior Citizens Commission with the Parks &

Recreation Commission that both groups could benefit from these funds; (11) Lantern Hill

Valley Park - Mayor Allyn noted at the Town Council’s July 27, 2022 meeting he was

authorized to engage professional services to conduct a survey and draft a legal description of

the .75-acre +/ parcel on Bush Pond in preparation to enter into a lease with Robert and Betsy

Graham. He stated as the Town Council may recall, Bob and Betsy Graham purchased a piece of

land on the twenty-three-acre Bush Pond which was parallel to Long Pond. He stated Mr. and

Mrs. Graham hired a demolition contractor to remove the decrepit cottages, which included the

structures and all the subsurface infrastructure, foundations, etc., and the land has been returned

to its original state. He stated the survey was completed under budget and that they were waiting

on the draft Lease. He stated the proposed 99-year Land Lease would be for $1.00 with the

caveat that the town could not construct a building on the parcel, but they could put in a gazebo

for picnicking, and the Graham’s would allow the town to put a port-a-john on the property

seasonally. He stated the leased waterfront park would be under the Administrative Control of

the Parks & Recreation Department and would allow non-motorized activities such as fishing,

picnicking, canoeing, and kayaking; (12) Ribbon Cuttings - Mayor Allyn stated on October 11,

2022 he along with Councilor McGrattan attended a Ribbon Cutting at Portalemia on Route 12

in Gales Ferry. He stated they had incredible deserts, salads, etc. He went on to announce that he

would be attending a Ribbon Cutting for Mudworks Pottery Studio, located in the former

Ledyard Center School Building on October 13, 2022 and that all were welcome to attend; (13)

Coast Guard Academy Center for Excellence Ribbon Cutting - Mayor Allyn stated he attended

the Ribbon Cutting today. He stated the Center for Excellence was located on the waterfront and

was a beautiful facility.

Questions to the Mayor

Councilor Rodriguez addressed the Mayor’s request for the Town Council to consider merging

the Senior Citizens Commission and Parks & Recreation Commission. She stated combining the

two groups would be a positive step forward for the Senior Center, noting that it would attract a

higher percentage of residents to attend the Center’s programs.

Chairman Dombrowski referred merging the Senior Citizens Commission and Parks &

Recreation Commission to the Administration Committee. (Ordinance #100-014 “An Ordinance

Establishing a Parks and Recreation Commission for the Town of Ledyard” and Ordinance

#100-016 “An Ordinance Establishing a Senior Citizens Commission for the Town of Ledyard”).

RESULT:

XIII. OLD BUSINESS

Finance Committee

MOTION to authorize the Permanent Municipal Building Committee (PMBC) to set the bid rate

for the Gales Ferry School and Juliet W. Long School roofing projects at $50.00 per square foot

to account for inflation.

In addition, the Permanent Municipal Building Committee may, with Town Council approval,

modify the scope of the “Various School Improvement Projects” to include the 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; upgrades to the building

management systems at Gales Ferry School; and electrical and HVAC upgrades at Juliet W.

Long School) to stay within the authorized amount $6,725,000, as approved by the townspeople

at the February 22, 2022 town-wide referendum.

Also, the Town Council acknowledges that the Town of Ledyard is aware that the State of

Connecticut notified the Board of Education that the State would only provide a reimbursement

rate of 75% for the cost of the Gales Ferry School roof. This reduction in State grant

reimbursement was based the State’s record that the Board of Education accepted the school in

2006, although the Gales Ferry School project was completed in 2001; therefore, the State

believed that school did not meet the State’s the 20-year criteria for full reimbursement.

NO ACTION

XIV. NEW BUSINESS

RESULT:

Without objection Chairman Dombrowski suggested addressing New Business Item #10 as the first

item of business this evening.

MOTION to authorize purchase of fire apparatus (3,000 gallon tanker) from New England Fire

Equipment and Apparatus Corporation in an amount not to exceed $640,412.00 for the Ledyard

Fire Company from Account #0210-21020401-54325

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

Discussion: Councilor Saums noted as Gales Ferry Fire Chief Tony Saccone stated earlier this

evening (V. Residents and Property Owners) a lot of thought has gone into the purchase of this

3,000-gallon Tanker-Pumper Fire Truck. He stated the Administrator of Emergency Services

works together with both of the town’s Fire Companies (Ledyard Center and Gales Ferry) to

continuously assess their apparatus/fleet to best meet the needs of the town. He stated this work

included maintaining an Apparatus Replacement Schedule. He went on to explain as part of the

annual budget process funding was allocated to the Capital Reserve Fund so that funding was

in-place when a piece of apparatus has reached the end of its planned lifecycle and needed to be

replaced.

Councilor Saums provided some background explaining that the town’s fire services have

discussed and researched Tankers for a number of years. He noted the Ledyard Center Fire

Company has not had a Tanker for about seven years noting that the Tanker (R-14) was taken

out of service because it was unserviceable and not safe for the road. He stated the reason there

has been a gap in the replacement of the Tanker was because there were some challenges within

the Leadership in deciding on the best direction for the town. He stated the town has used

various fire suppression strategies in the past such as the Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS)

and the Drop Tank Systems and determined for a town where only about 50% of the structures

had access to fire hydrants that a Tanker that could bring water to the scene was the best

solution. He stated in managing the fire apparatus fleet that the two fire companies work together

and try supplement the equipment that each had. He went on to note that that the Ledyard Center

Fire Company and Gales Ferry Company support each other in responding to large structure fires

and when there was a fire where no fire hydrants were available. He also stated that if they had a

large fire that other Fire Companies Tankers would also respond to the scene providing Mutual

Aid, and that Ledyard’s Tankers would also go out of town for Mutual Aid support as well.

However, he stated they have agreed that one Tanker would stay in Ledyard at all times.

Councilor Saums went on to state in soliciting Request for Proposal #22-25 ( Fire Apparatus

3,000-gallon Tanker) to replace R-14 the town received three bids from the following three

companies: (1) Greenwood Emergency Vehicles $680,000; (2) New England Fire Equipment

and Apparatus Corp. $640,412; and (3) Shipman’s Fire Equipment $628,972. He stated the

Apparatus Committee reviewed the bids and agreed that the bid received from New England Fire

Equipment was the lowest bid that met all the bid specification requirements. He stated although

Shipman’s Fire Equipment came in with the lowest bid in the amount of $628,972 that they did

not meet the specifications because their proposal was for a stainless-steel body, noting that the

specifications in Bid #22-15 called for an aluminum body. He explained in accordance with

Ordinance #200-002 (rev 1) Section 2: “Bid awards shall be determined by assessing the best

interest of the Town in terms of the scope of work, qualified bidders’ overall approach to the

project or service, past performance, and cost. The bid shall be awarded to the lowest qualified

bidder if it is in the best interest of the Town.” He stated because the lowest bid did not meet the

specifications, and because the assessment of the bids found that with some negotiations to

remove some features from the apparatus that New England Fire Equipment and Apparatus

Corp. proposal was the best value for the town.

Councilor Saums concluded by noting the lead time for the construction and delivery of the

Tanker was 20-24 months.

VOTE:: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Andra Ingalls

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

CONSENT CALENDAR

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Rodriguez

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

This was Approved and so declared.

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Ledyard Beautification Committee for a

three-year (3) term ending October 26, 2025:

*1.

Ms. Carol Christiansen (R) 29 Quakertown Road, Ledyard

Ms. Julie M. Brousseau (R) 1649 Route 12, Gales Ferry.

Carol Ann Schneider (D) 101 Inchcliffe Drive, Gales Ferry

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Inland Wetland and Water Courses

Commission for a two-year (2) term ending October 31, 2024:

*2.

Ms. Lynmarie R. Thompson (D) 2 Blackwell Drive, Gales Ferry (Regular Member)

Ms. Beth E. Ribe (U) 129 Rose Hill Road, Ledyard (Regular Member)

Mr. Dan Pealer (R) 48 Highland Drive, Ledyard (Regular Member)

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

MOTION to reappoint the following members to the Building Code of Appeals for a

five-year (5) term ending October 14, 2027:

*3.

Mr. Ernest A. Maynard, Jr. (U) 746 Shewville Road, Ledyard

Mr. Stanley Juber (R) 13 Iron Street, Ledyard

Mr. Gabriel B. Stern, (D) 1065 Long Cove Road, Gales Ferry

Mr. Wayne Chiapperini (R) 150 Library Street, Mystic

Mr. Hubert B. Sokolski (R) 14 Mary Belle Circle, Gales Ferry

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

S. Naomi Rodriguez

SECONDER:

Administration Committee

MOTION to appoint Ms. Elizabeth Peterson (D) 15 Browns Crossing Road, Gales Ferry to the

Permanent Municipal Building Committee to complete a three-year term ending March 25, 2023

filing a vacancy left by Mr. Juskiewicz.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor McGrattan

Discussion: Councilor Ingalls stated for all of tonight’s Appointments that the Applicants’

application and resume’ were attached to the Agenda packet on the meeting portal.

Councilor Ingalls provided an overview of the appointment process explaining that if the interested

resident had a political affiliation that they would apply through their pollical party; and if they

were unaffiliated that the individual would apply directly to the Town Council Office. She stated

Ledyard was fortunate to have great volunteers in town.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Mary K. McGrattan

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Ms. Allison Troy (D) 548 Pumpkin Hill Road, Ledyard, to the Ledyard

Farmers’ Market Committee to complete a three (3) year term ending May 9, 2024 filling a

vacancy left by Ms. Yaras.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Irwin

Discussion: None.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

MOTION to appoint Ms. Sarah Martic (R) 59R Long Pond Road South, Ledyard, to the

Ledyard Farmers’ Market Committee to complete a three (3) year term ending May 9, 2024

filling a vacancy left by Ms. Allyn.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Irwin

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated Ms. Martic of Cider Hill Farms has been a regular vendor and

volunteer at the Ledyard Farmers Market. He stated it was ideal that Ms. Martic has volunteered to

serve on the Committee, noting that she understands the time commitment in serving on the Farmers

Market Committee. He commented on the amount of work and administrative oversight required to

put the Farmers Market on every week during the summer months.

Councilor Ingalls stated Ledyard had the best Farmers Market in the region, noting that vendors

were very happy with the number of patrons that visit the Market each week.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Whit Irwin

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Ms. Carol A. Schneider, (D) 101 Inchcliffe Drive, Gales Ferry, to the

Senior Citizens Commission to complete a two (2) year term ending December 9, 2023 filling a

vacancy left by Ms. Dykes.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor McGrattan

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated Ms. Schneider has been an active volunteer in the

community for many years. He stated that she was well versed in working with the town and he

noted that she did a lot of work with the Ledyard Beautification Committee.

Councilor Rodriguez stated Ms. Schneider had a great background noting that she has Graphic

Art, Retail, and Marketing skills. She stated that Ms. Schneider would be an asset to the Senior

Citizens Commission.

Councilor Ingalls stated because two Applications were received for the one vacancy on the Senior

Citizens Commission that she spoke with Senior Citizens Director Scott Johnson Jr. about the two

candidates and the Commission’s work to date. She noted that Mr. Johnson requested Ms. Schneider

be selected to fill the vacancy because her background in Graphic Art, Retail, and Marketing would

help in rebranding the Senior Citizens Commission and help them achieve their current goals

relative to marketing and promoting the Senior Center.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Mary K. McGrattan

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to appoint Planning and Zoning Commission Members as follows:

Mr. Howard Craig (U) 64 Stoddards View, Gales Ferry, as a Regular Member for a term ending

October 21, 2025 taking the place of Regular Member Mr. Baudro;

Mr. Thomas Baudro (R) 135 Whalehead Road, Gales Ferry, as an Alternate Member for a term

ending October 31, 2023 taking the place of Alternate Member Mr. Craig.

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Irwin

Discussion: Councilor Ingalls explained that Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Member Mr.

Tom Baudro’s term was scheduled to expire on October 31, 2022. She stated because Mr. Baudro

indicated that he was looking to step down from the Commission, and because four of the

Commission Members had less than two-years of experience, Planning & Zoning Commission

Chairman Tony Capon asked Mr. Baudro to stay on the Commission as an Alternate Member. In

addition, Chairman Capon also requested the Town Council move (appoint) Alternate Member Mr.

Craig to a Regular Member position to take Mr. Baudro’s place. She stated this would provide time

for some of the newer members to gain more experience and take on a larger role, while still having

the institutional support of veterans members such as Mr. Baudro serving as an Alternate Member.

Councilor Ingalls went on to note that Alternate Member Mr. Craig has also agreed to take on the

role of a Regular Member on the Commission. She explained that basically these two members were

switching places on the Commission.

Chairman Dombrowski stated as Councilor Ingalls mentioned, Planning & Zoning Commission

Chairman Capon contacted him to discuss switching the status of these two Commission Members.

He stated Chairman Capon’s concerned that there was not a breadth of experience on the

Commission as it currently stood. Therefore, Mr. Capon wanted to keep Mr. Baudro on the

Commission in a mentor role and to help with historical background. Chairman Dombrowski stated

it was a good idea to ask Mr. Baudro to stay on the Commission to help out as a mentor and he

thanked Mr. Baudro for his willing to serve the town for one more year.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Whit Irwin

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

MOTION to set a Hybrid (In-Person & Video Conference) Public Hearing date for December

14, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. to be held in the Council Chambers, 741 Colonel Ledyard Highway, to

receive comments and recommendations regarding a proposed amendments to Ordinance

#300-027 (rev 2) “An Ordinance Regulating Parking And Other Activities In Town Roads And

Rights-Of-Way And Providing Penalties For The Violation Thereof” as contained in draft dated

October 13, 2022.

No Action

Chairman Dombrowski stated in working to prepare letters to notify the residents about the

Public Hearing regarding the proposed draft “An Ordinance Regulating Parking of Commercial

Vehicles on Public Streets in Residential Zones and/or In Front of Residentially Used

Properties” that he spoke with Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin about

whether one of the streets from which residents had expressed concerns regarding the

commercial vehicles was a town road. He stated during their discussion Mr. Masalin suggested

rather than create a separate ordinance that they consider adding the commercial vehicle

language to Ordinance #300-027 (rev 1) “An Ordinance Regulating Parking and Other Activities

in Town Roads and Rights-of-Way and Providing Penalties for the Violation Thereof”.

Therefore, Chairman Dombrowski suggested the Town Council not set a public hearing this

evening and that the Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee revisit the proposal.

Councilor Ingalls stated that she agreed with the idea to include the Commercial Vehicle Parking

provision in Ordinance #300-027 (rev 1). However, she suggested this initiative not be delayed

any longer than it needed to be, noting that she understood their residents frustration.

Administrative Assistant Roxanne Maher noted in a conversation with Mr. Masalin that

proposed amendments to Ordinance #300-027 (rev 1) could be presented at the Land

Use/Planning/Public Works Committee’s November 7, 2022 meeting.

The Town Council agreed to remove this item from the Agenda, noting that a motion to set a

public hearing date would come forward at a later time regarding a proposed Ordinance.

NO ACTION

RESULT:

Finance Committee

MOTION to authorize purchase of fire apparatus (3,000 gallon tanker) from New England Fire

Equipment and Apparatus Corporation in an amount not to exceed $640,412.00 for the Ledyard

Fire Company from Account #0210-21020401-54325

10.

11.

Addressed earlier in the meeting (see above)

MOTION to appropriate $6,760.78 to Account 21014301-53342-T0001 (Town Green Upgrade)

from Account 21090305-58915 (Undesignated) to cover the deficit of the Town share of STEAP

grant funding not eligible to be covered by ARPA funding.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

Discussion: Councilor Saums provided some background stating the town received a $124,000

STEAP Grant for the Town Green Improvements initiative. He stated to receive the Grant

Funding the town was required to provide a local match. He stated the town decided to use some

of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding as the town’s match. However, he stated

there were some expenses in the amount of $6,760.78 that were not ARPA eligible. Therefore,

he stated this request was to appropriate $6,760.78 from

Account #21090305-58915 (Undesignated) to cover the expenses.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Andra Ingalls

SECONDER:

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

AYE:

Marshall, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to approve $45,000 in supplemental funding for the construction of the concrete floor

at the Town Green Pole Barn.

12.

Supplemental funding to come from remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

Discussion: Councilor Saums provided some background stating at its December 8, 2021

meeting, the Town Council approved $55,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding

for a concrete floor at the Vo-Ag-Science Pole Barn at the Lower Town Green. He stated when

this request for additional funding was initially presented at the Finance Committee’s September

7, 2022 meeting they were stunned with the $95,000 cost (Gordian Group: $61,433.07; +

materials and miscellaneous efforts supplied by the Town $27,566.93 + contingency $6,000) of a

concrete pad. He stated because the initial cost, which was provided by Contractor who was

operating under a State Bid and included the town doing some of the work to save money, the

Finance Committee asked Public Works Director/Town Engineer Steve Masalin to again seek

bids with the hope that the cost would come in lower.

Councilor Saums stated on September 29, 2022 four proposals were received in response to Bid

#2023-04 noting the bids ranged of $152,400 to $196,014. He stated the previous proposal of

$95,000 which still seemed to be excessive, became more reasonable. He stated the Finance

Committee was disappointed with the results of the RFP, and shocked with cost. However, he

stated the town did what they were supposed to do in seeking bids for the projects; and that the

Public Works Director/Town Engineer validated the State Bid Contract and confirmed that the

original Gordian Group price of $61,433.07 remained good through the end of the year.

Councilor Saums went on to state that the current millings was not a suitable floor for the Pole

Barn for safety reasons. He stated in trying to navigate the Pole Barn on crutches or trying to use

a walker, wheelchair or a stroller that it was difficult because the millings never get sunlight and

do not get pounded down, noting because it was difficult to navigate was a liability to the Town.

He went on to state the Pole Barn was being put not great use in terms of economic development

and the number of people who come into town every Wednesday night during the summer

months.

Mayor Allyn, III, stated the Town Green as a whole was getting a lot of positive use, noting the

Pole Barn was the corner stone.

Councilor Rodriguez stated the Town Green was beautiful, noting it was great place for families

to picnic.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Andra Ingalls

SECONDER:

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

AYE:

Marshall, and Ryan

EXCUSED:

MOTION to approve a bid waiver to Girard Ford of Norwich, CT, in the amount of $72,168 for

purchase of a 2023 Ford Econoline Cutaway with utility body for the Public Works Department.

13.

Moved by Councilor Saums, seconded by Councilor Ingalls

Discussion: Councilor Saums stated in accordance with the Public Works Small Truck Capital

Replacement Plan the red Public Works Van was at the end of its useful life. He stated the van

was being replaced with a Ford Econoline Cutaway Truck with a utility body model, which

would allow the employees to have easier access to the materials and tools that were stored in

the back of the truck. He stated in purchasing the vehicle the town used the State Bid process.

However, he stated after nearly a year of delays in the delivery of the truck due to shortage of

vehicles, the Public Works Department located a very similar Truck that would be arriving soon

at Girard Ford in Norwich. He stated it was a 2023 model year truck and it had a comparable

body to what the original would have been outfitted with and cost $138.00 more than the truck

they ordered a year ago. He stated although the truck did not have some relatively minor

accessories that were ordered with the original package, that it had some advantages that the

Public Works Department believed would more than offset the accessories that were previously

ordered. He noted as an example, the 2023 model truck was an E450 versus and the F350, which

would offer greater load capacity, and the body was a larger capacity and better construction.

VOTE:7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Bill Saums

RESULT:

MOVER:

Andra Ingalls

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

General Business

MOTION to approve the Town Council 2023 Meeting Schedule.

14.

to be the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. as follows:

Town Council (2nd & 4th Wednesday, Council Chambers 7:00 p.m.)

January 11, 25

May 10, 24

September 13, 27

January 10, 24, 2024

February 8, 22

June 14, 28

October 11, 25

March 8, 22

July 12, 26

November 8, 22

April 12, 26

August 9, 23

December 13, 27

Moved by Councilor Ingalls, seconded by Councilor Irwin

Discussion: Chairman Dombrowski stated in accordance with CGS 1-225 each the Town

Council must file its meeting schedule for the coming year in the Town Clerk’s Office. He stated

if there were no objections that the Town Council would continue to meet on the second and

fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

Chairman Dombrowski stated that the Town Council also served as the Flood/Erosion Control

Board and that the Board would meet on an as needed basis.

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared

APPROVED AND SO DECLARED

Andra Ingalls

RESULT:

MOVER:

Whit Irwin

SECONDER:

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

Marshall, and Ryan

AYE:

EXCUSED:

Discuss Work Session Items as time permits.

None.

15.

XV. ADJOURNMENT

Councilor Rodriguez moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Irwin

VOTE: 7 - 0 Approved and so declared. The meeting adjourned at 7:58 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 October 12, 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.