Ledyard public meetings in 2024

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting to close the public hearing for a Special Use Permit and Site Plan Approval. The application, filed by Gales Ferry Intermodal, LLC, seeks to modify an existing mixed-use development at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12 to add a Major Excavation Operation. The hearing has been continued multiple times, with a final deadline of December 20, 2024, after which the commission must issue a decision.

• Public Hearing: PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM for 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12
• Applicant: Gales Ferry Intermodal, LLC (Agent: Harry Heller, Esq.)
• Request: Special Use Permit/Site Plan Approval and Coastal Site Plan Review
• Scope: Modification of existing mixed-use development to add a Major Excavation Operation
• Status: Public hearing must close by December 20, 2024; Decision required within 65 days of close

The Planning & Zoning Commission closed the public hearing for the Gales Ferry Intermodal special use permit and coastal site plan review applications (PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM) after hearing closing remarks from both the applicant's attorney and the opposition. The commission then voted to continue the discussion and decision on the application to a special meeting on January 23, 2025. No final decision was made on the application itself.

• Closed public hearing for PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM (5-0, 1 recused)
• Continued discussion and decision on PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM to January 23, 2025 special meeting (5-0, 1 recused)

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Ledyard Water Pollution Control Authority will review operations and financial reports, including a year-to-date water and sewer report. The meeting includes a progress report on the Trail/Sewer line and the lead survey grant submittal. The primary decision is a vote to allow the Chairman to sign a commitment letter for the Habitat for Humanity project.

• Vote to approve the Habitat for Humanity Water & Sewer Main Extension Agreement commitment letter
• Progress report on the Trail/Sewer line and Ledyard Low Pressure Sewer Upgrade Phase 3
• Update on the Lead Survey Review and DWSRF Grant Submittal for Ledyard and Gales Ferry systems
• Discussion of the new budget structure using FY24 Water and Sewer Budget Worksheets
• Review of the WPCA Handbook

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a motion allowing Chairman Lynch to sign the Water Main and Sewer Line Extension Agreement with Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut, Inc. The agreement commits the town to supply water and sewer service for a Habitat development, with each resident owning their own grinder pump. The vote was 4-0 with two members excused. The board also approved the November 26, 2024 meeting minutes as amended.

• Approved Water Main and Sewer Line Extension Agreement with Habitat for Humanity (4-0)
• Approved November 26, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:56 p.m. (4-0)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board will review the GASB Disclosure Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, and approve minutes from November 19, 2024. The board will discuss Amendment 2015-1 and Amendment 2024-1 to the retirement plan for full-time employees. It will also approve specific pension benefits and pay consulting invoices.

• Motion to approve a monthly retirement benefit of $2,469.62 for Bobby Kempke effective December 1, 2024
• Motion to approve payment of $12,849.65 to Fiducient Advisors for consulting costs from October 1 to December 31, 2024
• Motion to approve payment of $800.00 to USI for benefit calculations for Bobby Kempke and Belinda Learned
• Discussion of Amendment 2015-1 to the Retirement Plan for Full-Time Employees
• Discussion of Amendment 2024-1 to the retirement plan for full-time employees

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved a recommendation to the Town Council to adopt amendment 2024-1 to the Retirement Plan for Full-Time Employees, with a change to use 're-employed' instead of 'continues employment'. The board also approved a monthly retirement benefit for Bobby Kempke, payments to Fiducient Advisors and USI, and discussed the FY 25/26 contribution, deferring a decision to January 21, 2025.

• Approved recommendation to Town Council to adopt amendment 2024-1 to Retirement Plan (8-0)
• Approved monthly retirement benefit for Bobby Kempke of $2,469.62 (8-0)
• Approved payment of $12,849.65 to Fiducient Advisors (8-0)
• Approved payment of $800.00 to USI for benefit calculations (8-0)
• Approved minutes of November 19, 2024 (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Discussed FY 25/26 contribution; decision deferred to January 21, 2025

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission will hold its regular meeting on December 16, 2024, at the Gales Ferry Library. The main items are a vote on the proposed FY2026 Library budget and approval of the 2025 slate of officers. The commission will also welcome a new member, review treasurer and director reports, and discuss committee updates.

• Motion to approve proposed FY2026 Library budget
• Motion to approve 2025 officers: John Bolduc (Chair), Elizabeth Rumery (Vice Chair), Ralph Hightower (Treasurer), Ellin Grenger (Secretary)
• Welcome Wendy Hellekson, new Town Council appointment
• Reappointments of Ralph Hightower, Rolf Racich, and Peter Diette
• LION Proposed Fees FY 2025_2026 discussion

The Ledyard Library Commission approved the proposed FY2026 library budget with several amendments, including a 2.5% increase for Library Associates, restoration of a Library Page position, a Sunday Supervisor hourly rate, a $1,000 programming increase, and a $31 domain renewal fee. The commission also approved the 2025 slate of officers. All votes were 9-0.

• Approved FY2026 library budget with amendments (9-0)
• Approved 2.5% increase for Library Associates (9-0)
• Restored Library Page position up to 15 hrs/pay period at $16.35/hr (9-0)
• Approved Sunday Supervisor hourly rate of $22.44 (9-0)
• Approved $1,000 increase to programming budget (9-0)
• Approved $31 increase for domain name renewal (9-0)
• Approved 2025 officers: Bolduc (Chair), Racich (Vice Chair), Hightower (Treasurer), Grenger (Secretary) (9-0)
• Approved November 18, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission approved the November 18 minutes, elected officers for the coming year, and discussed progress on the Sawmill penstock repair, including approval of Savy and Sons as vendor. No public comments were made, and no other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved November 18, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Elected Ty Lamb as Chairperson (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Elected William Barnes as Vice-Chairman (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Elected Kelley Lamb as Secretary (5-0)
• Approved Savy and Sons as vendor for penstock repair (discussed, no formal vote recorded)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission continued the public hearing for the Gales Ferry Intermodal special use permit and coastal site plan application (PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM) to December 19, 2024, after hearing extensive public comment. Two other applications were tabled to January 9, 2025: a bank stabilization project at 109 Military Highway and a new building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway. No final decisions were made on any application.

• Continued public hearing for PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM to Dec 19, 2024 (3-0)
• Tabled PZ#24-10SITE & PZ#24-11CAM bank stabilization project to Jan 9, 2025 (4-0)
• Tabled PZ#24-12SITE new building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Pkwy to Jan 9, 2025 (4-0)
• Tabled approval of Nov 21, 2024 minutes to Jan 9, 2025

Administration Committee

The Ledyard Administration Committee will discuss and possibly act on creating an Ethics Commission and drafting an ordinance about unofficial third-party flags on town property. It will also vote on several appointments and reappointments to town boards and commissions.

• Discussion and possible action to create an Ethics Commission for the Town of Ledyard
• Discussion and possible action to draft an Ordinance regarding the raising of Unofficial-Third-Party Flags on Town Property
• MOTION to reappoint John Rodolico and Roger Codding to the Retirement Board for three-year terms ending January 20, 2025
• MOTION to appoint Carol Schneider to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission as Regular Member
• MOTION to appoint Stephanie Bacon as Alternate Member to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Administration Committee discussed the proposed Ethics Commission ordinance, incorporating resident suggestions, and agreed to continue refining the draft at its January 8, 2025 meeting before sending it to the Town Attorney. The committee also approved several appointments and reappointments to town boards, all by 2-0 votes, with one member excused.

• Continued discussion on Ethics Commission ordinance, to finalize draft at January 8, 2025 meeting
• Approved reappointment of John Rodolico and Roger Codding to Retirement Board (2-0)
• Approved appointment of Carol Schneider to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission (2-0)
• Approved appointment of Stephanie Bacon as Alternate to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission (2-0)
• Approved appointment of Rhonda Spaziani as Alternate to Planning & Zoning Commission (2-0)
• Approved reappointment of Roger Codding to Board of Assessment Appeals (2-0)
• Approved reappointment of Joseph Lozier as Alternate to SCRRRA (2-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council will hold a regular meeting on December 11, 2024, to consider several motions, including appointments to town boards and commissions, and a series of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding appropriations. The council will also review minutes, communications, and other routine business.

• Appointments to Planning & Zoning, Inland Wetlands, Library, and Parks & Recreation commissions
• Approve ARPA fund transfers and appropriations, including $46,404 bid waiver for Sawmill repairs and $74,000 for youth mental health clinicians
• Approve $226,728 Town Council FY 2025/2026 budget and $1,500 capital improvement budget
• Approve two tax refunds totaling $6,559.73
• Cancel December 25, 2024 regular meeting for Christmas holiday

The Ledyard Town Council approved multiple appointments to town commissions and several ARPA funding allocations, including $74,000 for youth mental health clinicians and $10,000 for sawmill improvements. They also approved bid waivers, tax refunds, and the FY 2025/2026 Town Council budget. All votes were 6-0 with three councilors excused.

• Approved appointments to Planning & Zoning, Inland Wetlands, Library, and Parks commissions (6-0)
• Approved ARPA fund transfer of $1,680 to Sawmill project and bid waiver to Savy & Sons for $46,404 (6-0)
• Appropriated $74,000 ARPA funds for Child and Family Agency mental health services (6-0)
• Increased Rotary Drum Thickener Panel project budget by $3,118.33 (6-0)
• Appropriated $10,000 ARPA funds for Up-Down Sawmill improvements (6-0)
• Appropriated ARPA funds for multiple projects including smart projectors, playground surface, and CPR devices (6-0)
• Approved two tax refunds totaling $6,559.73 (6-0)
• Approved FY 2025/2026 Town Council budget of $227,279 and capital budget of $1,500 (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission approved its slate of officers for the upcoming term, reappointing Mike Marelli as Chairman, James Harwood as Vice-Chairman, Betsy Graham as Treasurer, and Kathleen Edgecomb as Secretary. The commission also approved the minutes from the November 12, 2024 meeting. No other formal decisions were made; discussions on the Long Island Resilience Planning Support Program, field clearing at White-Hall Property, and invasive species monitoring at Long Pond were informational only.

• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved slate of officers: Marelli (Chair), Harwood (Vice-Chair), Graham (Treasurer), Edgecomb (Secretary) (7-0)

Public Safety Commission

The Ledyard Public Safety Commission will discuss ongoing items including emergency medical dispatch, police radio updates, and a fire/EMS radio project. The body will also vote to approve the 2025 regular meeting schedule and the minutes from the September 16, 2024 meeting.

• Discussion of emergency medical dispatch
• Update on police department radio
• Update on Fire / EMS Radio Project
• Motion to approve 2025 regular meeting schedule
• Motion to approve September 16, 2024 minutes

The Ledyard Public Safety Commission approved its 2025 regular meeting schedule and elected officers for the year. Steve Holyfield was re-elected as Chair and Jon Mann as Vice Chair. The commission also discussed forming a subcommittee to review the emergency medical dispatch program and noted that the fire alarm system at Juliet W. Long School has been bid and awarded for replacement.

• Approved minutes of September 16, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)
• Approved 2025 regular meeting schedule (5-0)
• Re-elected Steve Holyfield as Chair for 2025 (5-0)
• Elected Jon Mann as Vice Chair for 2025 (5-0)
• Discussed forming EMD subcommittee (no formal action)
• Noted JWL fire alarm system replacement awarded to vendor

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting to continue the public hearing and then discuss and decide on applications PZ#24-8SUP and PZ#24-9CAM by Gales Ferry Intermodal, LLC. The applicant seeks a Special Use Permit, Site Plan Approval, and Coastal Site Plan Review to add a major excavation operation to an existing mixed-use development at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12 in Gales Ferry. The hearing has been continued multiple times and must close by December 20, 2024.

• Public hearing and decision on Special Use Permit/Site Plan Approval for major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12, Gales Ferry
• Applicant: Gales Ferry Intermodal, LLC; agent Harry Heller, Esq.
• Coastal Site Plan Review included
• Hearing continued from previous dates; must close by 12/20/2024
• Extensive public comments and expert reports submitted

The Planning & Zoning Commission held a special meeting to take public comment on a special use permit and coastal site plan review for a major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12 in Gales Ferry. After hearing from numerous residents, the commission voted 5-0 to continue the public hearing and the application decision to a future meeting. No final decision was made on the application.

• Continued public hearing PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM (excavation operation at 1737/1761 CT-12) to next meeting (5-0)
• Continued discussion and decision on the same application to next meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:30 p.m. (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee will consider several motions, including transferring ARPA funds, granting bid waivers, approving tax refunds, and adopting the Town Council's FY 2025/2026 budgets. They will also continue discussions on opioid settlement fund uses and capital improvement planning.

• Motion to transfer $1,680 from Nathan Lester House to Sawmill Projects and grant bid waiver to Savy & Sons for $46,404 (Bid #2025-03)
• Motion to appropriate additional $74,000 for Youth Mental Health Clinicians (total $164,888)
• Motion to approve two tax refunds totaling $6,559.73 (Schmidt $3,901.97; Smith $2,657.76)
• Motion to approve Town Council FY 2025/2026 budget of $226,728 and capital budget of $1,500
• Motion to grant bid waiver to Perkins Home Improvement LLC for $20,700 (Bid #072-PI-31)

The Finance Committee recommended approval of multiple ARPA funding allocations, including $74,000 to extend Child and Family Agency services at two elementary schools into the 2025/2026 school year. The committee also recommended approving a $46,404 bid waiver for Up-Down Sawmill repairs, $10,000 for sawmill improvements, and a package of projects totaling over $100,000 for items like smart projectors, a playground surface, and CPR devices. All votes were 3-0.

• Approved $74,000 ARPA appropriation for Child and Family Agency services (3-0)
• Approved $46,404 bid waiver for Up-Down Sawmill repairs (3-0)
• Approved $10,000 ARPA for Up-Down Sawmill improvements (3-0)
• Approved $14,999 for smart projectors, $10,000 for boiler room wall, $50,000 for playground surface, $10,000 for camp scholarships, $2,500 for A2 survey, $20,000 for CPR devices, $5,500 for ADA counter (3-0)
• Approved reclassifying unspent ARPA funds to sewer design/engineering projects (3-0)
• Approved $227,279 Town Council FY2025/26 operating budget (3-0)
• Approved $1,500 Town Council capital budget (3-0)
• Approved $20,700 bid waiver for housing rehab at 43 Blacksmith Dr. (3-0)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Commission approved a site plan for a new commercial building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway, classifying it as a Class B activity and imposing conditions. It also approved an as-of-right determination for timber harvest crossings at 101 Sandy Hollow Rd. The public hearing on proposed wetlands regulation text amendments was continued to January 7, 2025, and the November 12 meeting minutes were approved as amended.

• Approved IWWC#24-19 site plan for 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway (5-0)
• Classified IWWC#24-19 as Class B activity (5-0)
• Approved IWWC#24-20AOR as-of-right determination for six timber harvest crossings at 101 Sandy Hollow Rd (5-0)
• Continued public hearing IWWC#24-10RA on regulation text amendments to Jan 7, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Nov 12, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee met on December 3, 2024, and approved the November 12, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. The bulk of the meeting was a discussion of upcoming events, including the wreath-making event, Valentine's Day teacups, Earth Day, and a mural project, with members volunteering to lead various initiatives. No formal votes were taken on these future projects.

• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 excused)
• Discussed wreath event logistics; volunteers and materials confirmed
• Assigned project leads for 2025 events (recycled art, mural, teacups)
• Agreed to repeat Valentine's Day teacup event on Feb 8 or 9
• Planned Earth Day event for April 26, 2025, 1-4 PM
• Discussed composting pilot program and community garden relocation

Economic Development Commission

The Ledyard Economic Development Commission is holding its regular meeting to discuss ongoing projects, including updates on the corridor study, business directory, and the FY 2023-2024 annual report. The commission will also hear reports from the mayor and planner, and consider approving the minutes from the November 12, 2024 meeting.

• Corridor Study Update
• Business Directory Update
• Development of FY 2023-2024 EDC Annual Report
• Business Directional Signage

The Economic Development Commission approved the final draft of its FY 2023-2024 annual report and the minutes from the November 12 meeting. The commission also discussed ongoing projects, including the GFI LLC application and a new commercial building application, and scheduled a CT Main Street visit for December 16.

• Approved FY 2023-2024 EDC Annual Report Final Draft #3 (6-0)
• Approved EDC Regular Meeting Minutes of November 12, 2024 (6-0)

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved a motion to authorize Chairman Schneider to sign a change order cover sheet for school roof projects, and approved multiple invoices from STV Construction and other vendors. The committee also received updates on the roof projects, noting that the Gales Ferry roof completion is delayed to February, and discussed the Juliet Long HVAC project, which is out to bid.

• Approved motion to authorize Chairman Schneider to sign change order cover sheet for school roof projects (4-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032347 for $6,856.40 for Gales Ferry School (4-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032348 for $7,272.08 for Juliet Long School (4-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032622 for $5,623.68 for Gales Ferry School (4-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032623 for $13,020.00 for Juliet Long School (4-0)
• Approved Friar Architecture invoice #2023-121A-06 for $4,515.00 for Juliet Long HVAC project (4-0)
• Approved The Day Publishing Company order for $668.40 for HVAC bid advertisement (4-0)
• Received and filed updates on roof projects and RFP/RFQ for Juliet Long HVAC owner's representative services

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority will review financial reports and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. The board will discuss and potentially adopt the FY2025 budget and a new live-in caregiver policy. They will also review updates on renovations and the final drafts of the lease and rules regulations.

• MOTION to adopt the Ledyard Housing Authority proposed FY2025 budget
• Discussion and possible action on Live-In Caregiver Policy
• MOTION to accept Payment of Bills and Financial Reports of November 2024
• MOTION to approve minutes of November 4, 2024
• Review of updated LHA Kings Corner Manor Rules Regulations and Lease Template

The Ledyard Housing Authority approved its proposed FY2025 budget and accepted Costello Company, LLC to perform audits, including a renovation cost certification. Board member Paula Crocker's resignation was announced. Several items, including a Live-In Caregiver Policy review, were continued.

• Approved Payment of Bills and Financial Reports for November 2024 (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes of November 4, 2024 meeting (2-0, 1 abstention, 1 absent)
• Approved FY2025 budget (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved engaging Costello Company, LLC for audits (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Continued review of Live-In Caregiver Policy
• Continued small work groups to update lease, rules, regulations and policies

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Ledyard Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee will continue discussions on enforcing blight regulations and reviewing historical research for the Spicer Homestead Ruins. The primary focus is considering provisions to address illegal dumping and drafting a new ordinance to address noise issues, as requested by a resident. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from November 4, 2024.

• Discussion on drafting an ordinance to address noise issues, referencing a request from Ms. Johnston dated August 12, 2024
• Discussion on provisions to address illegal dumping, referencing a draft ordinance dated September 3, 2024
• Continued discussion on enforcing regulations to address blight issues, referencing the Blight Ordinance and Public Nuisance document
• Review of historical research and photos regarding the Spicer Homestead Ruins (4.4 acres)
• Approval of minutes from the November 4, 2024 meeting

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee discussed blight enforcement, the Spicer Homestead Ruins grant, and illegal dumping/noise concerns. It decided not to pursue a noise ordinance or an illegal dumping ordinance, relying instead on state statutes. The committee will draft a letter to residents explaining the decision and keep the illegal dumping topic on the agenda for January 2025.

• Approved minutes of November 4, 2024 (3-0)
• Decided not to draft a noise ordinance, relying on state statutes
• Decided not to draft an illegal dumping ordinance, relying on state statute 22a-250
• Agreed to draft a letter to residents explaining the noise ordinance decision
• Kept illegal dumping on agenda for January 6, 2025 meeting

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Ledyard Water Pollution Control Authority will hold a regular meeting to review operations reports, approve minutes, and discuss old and new business. Key actions include voting on a tabled $9,850 payment for Phase III sewer line upgrades and a $2,253.46 invoice for lead inventory work. The board will also receive updates on the lead service line survey, budget structure, and a proposed Habitat for Humanity project.

• Motion to approve $9,850 payment to Weston & Samson for Phase III sewer line upgrade (tabled May 28, 2024)
• Motion to approve $2,253.46 invoice from Groton Utilities for lead inventory
• Review of lead service line survey and grant submittal update
• Discussion of new budget structure for water and sewer
• Habitat for Humanity correspondence and design discussion

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a $2,253.46 invoice from Groton Utilities for lead inventory and tabled a $9,850 payment to Weston & Samson for Phase III sewer work, referring it to the Public Works Director. The board also discussed a pool billing adjustment, a Habitat for Humanity infrastructure letter, and service area boundary issues.

• Approved Groton Utilities invoice #0026061 for $2,253.46 for lead inventory (5-0)
• Tabled Weston & Samson invoice #4241190 for $9,850, referred to Public Works Director
• Approved October 22, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Directed request to adjust Dewey Hinman's sewer bill for pool water
• Adjourned meeting at 7:55 p.m. (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission continued the public hearing for the special use permit and coastal site plan review for an excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12 in Gales Ferry. No decision was made; the hearing was continued to a future meeting. The commission also voted to adjourn the meeting.

• Continued public hearing PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM for excavation operation at 1737/1761 CT Route 12 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:45 p.m. (3-0)

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Ledyard Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion met and heard a presentation from Library Director Jennifer Smith on library services, programs, and grants. The committee approved the October 16, 2024 minutes and amended the agenda to remove two items. They continued planning for spring 2025 informal conversations at parks and discussed preparations for the 2025 Black History Month program.

• Approved October 16, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Amended agenda to remove Items #1 and #3 (3-0)
• Continued planning for spring 2025 Informal Conversations at Lantern Hill Waterfront Park and all town parks
• Continued work on department head government training presentations, with website link titled 'Ledyard Academy'
• Continued discussion on relationship with Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council
• Continued monitoring of opioid settlement funding and community programs
• Continued preparations for 2025 Black History Month program

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ledyard Zoning Board of Appeals held a remote meeting with no public hearings or applications. The board voted to approve the 2025 meeting schedule and elect new officers. They also approved the minutes from the August 21, 2024 meeting.

• Motion to approve Zoning Board of Appeals 2025 Meeting Schedule
• Election of ZBA Officers
• Approval of ZBA Regular Meeting Minutes of August 21, 2024

The Ledyard Zoning Board of Appeals held a regular meeting with no public hearings or new business. The board approved its 2025 meeting schedule, amending the start time from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and re-elected John Proctor as Chairman and Eric Treaster as Vice Chairman. Minutes from the August 21, 2024 meeting were also approved.

• Approved 2025 ZBA meeting schedule with start time changed to 7:00 p.m. (5-0)
• Re-elected John Proctor as Chairman and Eric Treaster as Vice Chairman (5-0)
• Approved ZBA Regular Meeting Minutes of August 21, 2024 (5-0)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved a motion to restructure the international equity portfolio, including retaining Causeway International Value at 7.5%, adjusting John Hancock International Dynamic Growth to 7.5%, replacing Invesco Developing Markets with Arga Emerging Markets Value and Driehaus Emerging Markets Growth at 3% each, and eliminating the Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund. The board also approved the October 15, 2024 meeting minutes and discussed updating the Town's Defined Benefit Plan with USI's assistance.

• Approved international equity restructuring (4-0, 1 excused)
• Approved October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 excused)
• Discussed using USI for Defined Benefit Plan update
• Discussed allowing rehired retirees to receive defined contribution match

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission will discuss relocating pickleball courts and reviewing maintenance contracts. The body will also vote to approve specific projects for funding with ARPA funds. Additionally, the commission will approve minutes from September and October 2024.

• MOTION to approve projects to be funded with ARPA Funds
• DISCUSSION on relocating pickleball courts
• Review of maintenance contracts for grass cutting, routine maintenance, and turf management
• MOTION to approve September 2024 Facilities Committee Meeting Minutes
• MOTION to approve October Regular Meeting Minutes

Agricultural Commission

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission is holding its regular November meeting in hybrid format. The agenda consists of standard procedural items: call to order, roll call, public comments, member comments, informational items, approval of the October 15, 2024 minutes, correspondence, and open old/new business. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Approval of October 15, 2024 regular/joint meeting minutes
• Citizens comments period
• Open old business and new business items

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission held a regular meeting on November 19, 2024, and approved the minutes from the October 15, 2024 joint meeting. Members discussed a proposal to connect Ledyard High School agriscience students with local farmer mentors, and agreed to hold the next joint commission meeting in April, with no regular meetings planned for December through February unless new agenda items arise. No formal decisions were made on these discussion items.

• Approved October 15, 2024 joint meeting minutes (5-0, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:07 p.m. (5-0, 1 absent)

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes reports from the treasurer and library director, updates from the Investment and Consortium working groups, and a proposal for LION fees for FY 2025-2026. The commission will also vote to approve the minutes from the October 21, 2024 meeting.

• Treasurer's reports for June through October 2024
• Director's reports for September, October, and November 2024
• LION Proposed Fees FY 2025-2026
• Approval of October 21, 2024 meeting minutes

The Ledyard Library Commission met on November 18, 2024, and approved the minutes from the October 21 meeting. The commission discussed the rising cost of the Hoopla e-media service, which averages $1,500 per month, and the director recommended capping monthly spending rather than limiting checkouts. No formal action was taken on Hoopla. The meeting was otherwise informational, with reports on the treasurer, director, and consortium.

• Approved October 21, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:36 p.m. (6-0)

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission is holding its regular November meeting. The agenda includes approval of October 28 special meeting minutes, reports from the Town Council liaison and chairman, and updates from several committees (Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, Research/Preservation, Center School, Social Media). No major decisions or public hearings are listed; the meeting appears to be largely procedural and informational.

• Approval of Special Meeting Minutes from October 28, 2024
• Financial reports: Sawmill donation, ARPA YTD, Capital account, General fund, NLH donation
• Committee reports: Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, Research/Preservation, Center School, Social Media

The Ledyard Historic District Commission met on November 18, 2024, and approved the October 28, 2024 special meeting minutes as written. The commission discussed several ongoing projects, including the Sawmill RFP responses due November 21, maintenance and future plans for the Nathan Lester House, and a potential A2 survey for a 4.4-acre ruins site. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved Special Meeting Minutes from October 28, 2024 (5-0)
• Discussed Sawmill RFP responses due November 21, 2024
• Discussed Nathan Lester House maintenance and long-term capital improvement plans
• Discussed need for A2 survey on 4.4-acre ruins, potential cost $5-6k
• Discussed emergency spending authorization limits ($1,000 by Kelley/Barnes, $5,000 with Chairman Lamb)
• Discussed financial workbook for tracking POS and balances

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a special meeting to continue the public hearing and make a decision on a special use permit and coastal site plan review for Gales Ferry Intermodal, LLC to add a major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12. The commission will also discuss a site plan application for a new 2,370-square-foot building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway, and consider approving the 2025 meeting schedule and electing officers.

• Public hearing and decision on PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM for major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12, Gales Ferry
• Site plan review PZ#24-12SITE for new 2,370 sq ft building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway, Ledyard
• Old business: PZ#24-10SITE & PZ#24-11CAM for bank stabilization at 109 Military Highway, Gales Ferry
• Motion to approve 2025 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting schedule
• Election of officers

The Planning & Zoning Commission tabled two applications to its December 5, 2024 special meeting: a bank stabilization project at 109 Military Highway and a new building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway. It approved the 2025 meeting schedule and elected officers. The public hearing for a major excavation operation at 1737/1761 Route 12 was continued to the next meeting.

• Tabled PZ#24-10SITE & PZ#24-11CAM (bank stabilization, 109 Military Hwy) to Dec 5, 2024 (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Tabled PZ#24-12SITE (new 2,370sf building, 5A Lorenz Industrial Pkwy) to Dec 5, 2024 (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved 2025 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting schedule (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Elected Marty Wood as Chairman, Paul Whitescarver as Vice Chairman, Howard Craig as Secretary (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Continued public hearing PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM (excavation operation, 1737/1761 Route 12) to next meeting (5-0, 1 recused)
• Tabled decision on PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM (5-0, 1 recused)
• Approved minutes of Oct 24, 2024 special meeting (5-0, 1 recused)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council will consider several financial items, including a letter of commitment for $80,000 toward acquiring 35.95 acres of open space at 154 Stoddard's Wharf Road, and updates to the ARPA projects list that reallocate funds from Erickson Park to other park and senior center projects. The council will also vote on amendments to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee ordinance, a $27,950 grant for radio equipment, and a $100,446 transfer for revaluation. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and appointments.

• Motion to authorize $80,000 from Open Space Fund for Avalonia Land Conservancy acquisition of 154 Stoddard's Wharf Road
• Motion to appropriate $27,950 for Fire Marshall radio equipment upgrades (Nuclear Safety Emergency Program funding)
• Motion to add Town Hall Vertical Lift project ($135,000) and grant bid waiver to Lifeway Mobility ($45,600)
• Motion to reallocate $55,000 from Erickson Park to other ARPA projects totaling $59,876 (tennis court, basketball court, fence, senior center floors)
• Motion to transfer $100,446 to Revaluation account

The Ledyard Town Council approved amendments to Ordinance #100-015, establishing rules for hiring Owner's Representatives for projects over $500,000. The council also authorized a letter of commitment for $80,000 from the Open Space Fund to support Avalonia Land Conservancy's acquisition of 154 Stoddard's Wharf Road. Several other motions were approved unanimously, including funding for radio equipment, reallocating ARPA funds for park and senior center projects, and appropriating funds for the property revaluation.

• Approved amendments to Ordinance #100-015 for Permanent Municipal Building Committee (9-0)
• Authorized $80,000 Open Space Fund commitment to Avalonia Land Conservancy for 154 Stoddard's Wharf Road (9-0)
• Appropriated $27,950 for Emergency Operations Center radio equipment upgrades (9-0)
• Approved $135,000 ARPA allocation and $45,600 bid waiver for Town Hall Vertical Lift (9-0)
• Reallocated $59,876 in ARPA funds from Erickson Park to park and senior center projects (9-0)
• Transferred $100,446 for property revaluation costs (9-0)
• Cancelled November 27, 2024 Town Council meeting for Thanksgiving (9-0)
• Approved minutes of October 23, 2024 meetings (9-0)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Ledyard Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission will hold a public hearing and make a decision on proposed text amendments to its regulations, covering sections 2.1, 7.5.b, 7.6.1, 7.8, 7.9, 11.6, 19.b, and 20. The commission will also discuss a new site plan application for a building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway, elect officers, and set the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Public hearing and decision on IWWC24-10RA: proposed text amendments to Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Regulations sections 2.1, 7.5.b, 7.6.1, 7.8, 7.9, 11.6, 19.b, & 20
• Site plan review for new 2,370 sq ft building at 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway (IWWC#24-19SITE)
• Election of officers
• Approval of 2025 meeting schedule
• Approval of October 1, 2024 meeting minutes

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission continued the public hearing on proposed text amendments to the wetland regulations to December 3, 2024, and tabled a decision on them. A new site plan application for 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway was also tabled to the same date. The Commission elected Justin DeBrodt as Chairman and Beth E. Ribe as Vice Chair, approved the 2025 meeting schedule as amended, and approved the October 1, 2024 minutes as amended.

• Continued public hearing on regulation amendments IWWC24-10RA to Dec 3, 2024 (5-0)
• Tabled decision on regulation amendments IWWC24-10RA (5-0)
• Tabled site plan application IWWC#24-19SITE for 5A Lorenz Industrial Parkway to Dec 3, 2024 (5-0)
• Elected Justin DeBrodt as Chairman and Beth E. Ribe as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule as amended (5-0)
• Approved Oct 1, 2024 minutes as amended to reflect vacancy (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission is holding its regular meeting to approve minutes, discuss correspondence, and hear public comments. Under old business, they will review property walks, financial reports, the Pollinator Pathways Project, and field clearing at White-Hall Property. New business includes a support letter for Avalonia's OSWA Grant and comments on the LISS 2025-2035 Plan.

• Approve minutes from October 8, 2024
• Review financial reports (White Hall GL, Conservation general, Trail Maintenance YTD)
• Pollinator Pathways Project continued
• Field clearing at White-Hall Property
• Support letter for Avalonia's OSWA Grant

The Ledyard Conservation Commission approved a letter of support for Avalonia Land Trust's application for Open Space and Watershed Acquisition grant funding to purchase property at 173-165 Stoddards Wharf Road. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included discussions on correspondence, informational items, and old business.

• Approved letter of support for Avalonia's OSWA grant application (7-0)
• Approved minutes from October 8, 2024, as written (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:20 p.m. (7-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission approved its 2025 meeting calendar and the October 1, 2024 minutes. Members heard reports on proposed developments in Ledyard Center and Sweet Hill Farm, including estimated school-age child impacts and tax revenue, and discussed a corridor study contract ready for signing. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or administrative.

• Approved EDC regular meeting minutes of October 1, 2024 (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved EDC 2025 calendar (5-0, 1 absent)
• Deferred election of officers to January meeting

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee is holding a regular meeting to review and approve the October 1, 2024 minutes, review financial reports, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes future projects, while new business includes a Wicked Tulip bulb giveaway. The meeting is open to the public in a hybrid format.

• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes from October 1, 2024
• Review of Ledyard Beautification Committee Financial Reports (as of 11-5-24)
• Discussion of future projects
• Wicked Tulip bulb giveaway

The Ledyard Beautification Committee discussed and tentatively planned its holiday wreath project for senior housing, deciding to make and deliver wreaths in one day on either December 7 or 8. They also discussed combining Earth Day and Spring Festival into one event in early May, and reviewed the Veterans Day sign initiative, noting 21-22 signs were purchased and $7 per sign will fund a veterans-themed project. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only formal action was approving the October 1, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved October 1, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 excused, 2 absent)
• Decided to make and deliver holiday wreaths in one day, either Dec 7 or 8
• Tentatively planned combined Earth Day/Spring Festival event for week of April 28, culminating May 3
• Discussed Veterans Day sign initiative; $7 per sign earmarked for veterans project

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee is meeting to approve motions regarding the use of federal opioid settlement funds and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money. Key decisions include funding a vertical lift at the Town Hall and authorizing a payment to the Avalonia Land Conservancy for land acquisition. The committee will also review year-to-date budget reports and discuss capital improvement plans.

• Motion to add Town Hall Vertical Lift Project to ARPA list with up to $135,000 allocation and $45,600 bid waiver to Lifeway Mobility
• Motion to authorize Mayor to issue $80,000 Letter of Commitment to Avalonia Land Conservancy for 154 Stoddard’s Wharf Road
• Motion to appropriate $27,950 for radio equipment upgrades to the Emergency Operations Center using Nuclear Safety Emergency Program funds
• Motion to transfer $100,446 from CNR Undesignated account to CNR Revaluation account
• Discussion on potential uses for National Opioid Settlement Payments

The Ledyard Finance Committee approved several recommendations, including adding a $135,000 Town Hall Vertical Lift project to the ARPA list and granting a bid waiver to Lifeway Mobility for $45,600. They also approved reallocating $55,000 from Erickson Park improvements to fund various Parks, Recreation, and Senior Center projects totaling $59,876. Additionally, they recommended authorizing a letter of commitment for $80,000 to Avalonia Land Conservancy for open space acquisition, appropriating $27,950 for radio equipment upgrades, and transferring $100,446 for a property revaluation. All votes were 2-0 with one member excused.

• Approved adding Town Hall Vertical Lift project ($135,000) to ARPA list (2-0)
• Approved bid waiver to Lifeway Mobility for $45,600 for vertical lift installation (2-0)
• Approved removing Erickson Park Enhancements ($55,000) from ARPA list and adding $59,876 for other projects (2-0)
• Approved motion to authorize letter of commitment to Avalonia Land Conservancy for $80,000 for open space acquisition (2-0)
• Approved appropriation of $27,950 for radio equipment upgrades to EOC (2-0)
• Approved transfer of $100,446 to CNR account for revaluation (2-0)
• Approved minutes of October 16, 2024 (2-0)
• Removed agenda item regarding BOE capital fund transfer (2-0)

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee met and approved the October 7, 2024 minutes. They continued discussions on blight enforcement, the Spicer Homestead Ruins historic designation, a potential noise ordinance, and illegal dumping, but took no final action on these items. The committee agreed to keep the noise and dumping items on the agenda for the December 2, 2024 meeting.

• Approved October 7, 2024 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Continued blight enforcement discussion; noted 14 properties, 2 closed, 1 in court, 2 with new owners, 9 outstanding
• Continued Spicer Homestead Ruins historic designation discussion; no action taken
• Continued noise ordinance discussion; no ordinance drafted, kept on agenda
• Continued illegal dumping discussion; no ordinance drafted, kept on agenda

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority will approve the October 2024 financial reports and minutes from the previous meeting. The board will also review updates on renovations and the draft Live-In Caregiver Policy, which may result in a formal decision.

• Motion to accept Payments of Bills and Financial Reports of October 2024
• Motion to approve minutes from the October 7, 2024 meeting
• Discussion and possible action on Live-In Caregiver Policy
• Review of updated Housing Authority Lease, Rules, Regulations, and Policies

The Ledyard Housing Authority met on November 4, 2024, and approved the October 2024 payments and financial reports, as well as the minutes from the October 7, 2024 meeting, both by a 3-0 vote with two members excused. No other formal decisions were made; items on the Live-In Caregiver Policy and lease/policy review work groups were continued without action. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.

• Approved October 2024 payments and financial reports (3-0)
• Approved October 7, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Continued work group on lease, rules, regulations, and policies
• Continued discussion on Live-In Caregiver Policy

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission held a special meeting on October 28, 2024, and approved the 2025 meeting calendar, moving the March meeting from March 17 to March 24. The commission also approved the September 16, 2024, minutes as amended. No other formal decisions were made; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and discussions on various projects and future plans.

• Approved 2025 meeting calendar, moving March meeting to March 24 (5-0)
• Approved September 16, 2024, minutes as amended (5-0)
• Appointed Kenneth Geer as voting member

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss and decide on an 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Road. The commission will also continue a public hearing and consider a decision on a special use permit and coastal site plan review for a major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12 in Gales Ferry.

• Discussion & decision on PZ#24-2RESUB: 18-lot affordable housing subdivision at 96-100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. (Avery Brook Homes, LLC)
• Public hearing on PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM: Special use permit and coastal site plan review for major excavation operation at 1737 & 1761 CT Route 12 (Gales Ferry Intermodal, LLC)
• Discussion & decision on PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM: Same Route 12 excavation application

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved PZ#24-2RESUB, an 18-lot resubdivision/affordable housing development at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd., with conditions and modifications. The vote was 5-0 with two abstentions and one excused. The commission also waived a $760 application fee for a separate special use permit application and continued that public hearing to November 14, 2024.

• Approved PZ#24-2RESUB, 18-lot resubdivision/affordable housing development at Stoddards Wharf Rd., with conditions (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved waiver of $760 application fee for PZ#24-8SUP-9CAM (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for PZ#24-8SUP-9CAM to November 14, 2024 (7-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council held a public hearing on proposed amendments to Ordinance #100-015, which would require hiring an Owner's Representative or Consulting Engineer for projects over $500,000. No vote was taken; the amendments will be considered at the November 13, 2024 meeting.

• Public hearing held on amendments to Ordinance #100-015 (no vote)
• Amendments to require Owner's Representative for projects over $500,000 presented
• Public comment received from Douglas Kelley regarding Historic District Commission partnership
• Amendments scheduled for Town Council meeting on November 13, 2024

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council is scheduled to vote on several major financial actions, including a $750,000 construction contract for Phase III sewer line installation and a $72,500 bid waiver for a Route 12 corridor study. The agenda also includes the approval of the FY 2025/2026 budget directive and multiple reappointments to town commissions.

• Authorize $750,000 construction contract with Gerber Construction, Inc. for Phase III Sewer Line Installation
• Grant $72,500 bid waiver to Goman & York Property Advisors, LLC for the Route 12 Corridor Study
• Approve $10,000 proposal from Community Speaks Out for National Opioid Settlement Funding
• Authorize $71,000 for resident inspection and engineering services by Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc.
• Reappoint members to the Planning & Zoning, Inland Wetland, and Historic District Commissions

The Ledyard Town Council approved several major items, including a $750,000 contract for Phase III of the sewer line extension and a $72,500 bid waiver for a Route 12 Corridor Study. The council also reappointed numerous commission members, approved a $10,000 opioid settlement funding proposal, and extended archery hunting on town lands. All votes were 7-0, with two councilors excused.

• Approved $750,000 Phase III sewer line installation contract (7-0)
• Approved $72,500 bid waiver for Route 12 Corridor Study (7-0)
• Approved $10,000 Community Speaks Out opioid settlement proposal (7-0)
• Approved FY2025/2026 Budget Letter of Directive (7-0)
• Extended archery hunting on town-owned lands for one year (7-0)
• Reappointed members to Agricultural, Historic District, Library, Beautification, Inland Wetlands, and Planning & Zoning Commissions (7-0)
• Appointed Michael Marelli and James Thompson to Inland Wetlands Commission (7-0)
• Appointed James Harwood to Planning & Zoning Commission (7-0)

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved an amendment to its leak investigation policy allowing residential customers with large leaks to be billed at the commercial flat rate once that rate is reached, effective October 22, 2024. The board also approved the 2025 meeting calendar and discussed several ongoing projects, including the Lakeside pump station upgrade and a proposed development at Stoddards Wharf Road. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved amendment to leak investigation policy allowing residential customers to use commercial rate for excess leak usage (4-1)
• Approved 2025 WPCA meeting calendar (5-0)
• Approved September 24, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Discussed Lakeside pump station upgrade estimated at $45,000
• Discussed leak test request for Cashman blasting impact on Route 12 water main
• Discussed proposed 15 Stoddards Wharf Road development, confirmed sufficient water capacity

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission will hold a regular meeting at the Gales Ferry Library to review informational reports and approve administrative schedules. The agenda includes the FY2024 Annual Report, treasurer's reports for June through September 2024, and the Friends of the Ledyard Library final budget. The commission will vote to approve the minutes from the September 16, 2024 meeting, as well as the 2025 meeting schedule and 2025 holiday closing schedule.

• Motion to approve the 2025 Library Commission meeting schedule
• Motion to approve the 2025 Library Holiday closing schedule
• Motion to approve the regular meeting minutes from September 16, 2024
• Review of the 2024.2025 Friends Final Budget
• Review of the Ledyard Public Library FY2024 Annual Report

The Ledyard Library Commission approved the 2025 meeting schedule and the 2025 holiday closing schedule, both unanimously. The commission also approved the minutes from the September 16, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and updates on library operations.

• Approved September 16, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved 2025 Library Commission meeting schedule (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Library Holiday closing schedule (7-0)

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Ledyard Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion will hold a regular meeting to discuss and possibly act on scheduling public information forums, hosting 'Informal Conversations in the Park' at specific venues, and increasing communication with residents. They will also discuss starting a relationship with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council and researching community organizations for opioid settlement funding. The agenda includes approval of the September 18, 2024 minutes and setting the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Continued discussion on scheduling Public Information Forums to explain town services
• Discussion on hosting 'Informal Conversations in the Park' at Long Pond on Lantern Hill Road and Winthrop Park near Gales Ferry Community Center
• Discussion on increasing communication/transparency, including a governance training proposal from Beth Ribe
• Discussion on starting a relationship with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council
• Research on community organizations for opioid and substance abuse programs using Opioid Settlement Funding

The Ledyard Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion approved a motion to support and sponsor a school contest or event for Native American Heritage Month in November. The committee also continued planning for public information forums, informal conversations in parks, and a relationship with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council. The 2025 meeting schedule was approved.

• Approved motion to support and sponsor a Ledyard School System contest for Native American Heritage Month (2-0)
• Approved 2025 regular meeting schedule (third Wednesday monthly, 2-0)
• Approved minutes of September 18, 2024 (2-0)
• Continued discussion on public information forums with department head presentations
• Scheduled informal conversation at Winthrop Park for November 7, 2024
• Continued discussion on opioid settlement funding proposals

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the Town Council accept a $10,000 proposal from Community Speaks Out for opioid settlement funding, with amendments removing school presentation and awareness event costs and adding $2,000 to financial recovery assistance. The committee also approved a bid waiver and $72,500 for the Route 12 Corridor Study, authorized up to $750,000 for Phase III sewer line construction plus $71,000 for engineering services, and approved a budget letter of directive for FY 2025/2026. A motion to transfer Board of Education capital funds back to the Town's Capital Nonrecurring Fund was tabled 2-1.

• Recommended $10,000 opioid settlement funding for Community Speaks Out with amendments (3-0)
• Approved bid waiver and $72,500 for Route 12 Corridor Study (3-0)
• Authorized up to $750,000 for Phase III sewer construction and $71,000 for engineering (3-0)
• Approved FY 2025/2026 Budget Letter of Directive (3-0)
• Authorized overspending Town Attorney account through June 30, 2025 (3-0)
• Tabled motion to transfer Board of Education capital funds back to CNR Fund (2-1)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission approved seating two alternate members as regular members, approved the August 2024 meeting minutes, and approved the 2025 commission meeting dates. The commission continued discussions on relocating pickleball courts and reviewing maintenance contracts, with no final decisions on those items. The director's report noted upcoming events and projects, including the Park Caretaker job posting and ARPA project ordering.

• Approved seating alternates Schneider and Hawes as regular members
• Approved August 2024 meeting minutes
• Approved 2025 commission meeting dates
• Continued discussion on relocating pickleball courts
• Continued review of maintenance contracts

Agricultural Commission

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission held a joint work session with other town commissions, discussing farmland preservation, the town's Plan of Conservation and Development, and trail projects. The commission approved the September 17, 2024 meeting minutes and the 2025 meeting date calendar, both by a 4-0 vote with two excused and one absent. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved September 17, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting date calendar (4-0)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board is meeting to approve routine items including minutes, a death benefit payment, a new retirement benefit, and the 2025 meeting schedule. They will also hear updates from the Human Resources Director and Finance Director, and continue discussing a plan amendment.

• Approve $35,485.68 death benefit for David Browning's beneficiary
• Approve monthly retirement benefit of $1,975.22 for Dennis Deslandes
• Approve 2025 meeting date calendar
• Discuss Amendment 2015-1 to the Retirement Plan
• Approve September 17, 2024 minutes

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved a $35,485.68 death benefit for David Browning and a $1,975.22 monthly retirement benefit for Dennis Deslandes. They also approved the 2025 meeting calendar and the September 17, 2024 minutes. The board discussed recommending deletion of Amendment 2015-1 to the Town Council and agreed to have Attorney Bruce Barth review the Defined Benefit Plan.

• Approved $35,485.68 death benefit for David Browning (5-0)
• Approved $1,975.22 monthly retirement benefit for Dennis Deslandes (5-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting date calendar (5-0)
• Approved September 17, 2024 minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Discussed recommending deletion of Amendment 2015-1 to Town Council
• Agreed to hire Attorney Bruce Barth to review Defined Benefit Plan

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission denied a proposed zoning amendment (PZ#24-7ZRA) that would have added affordable housing development regulations, following staff advice to deny without prejudice. The commission continued discussions on an 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision (PZ#24-2RESUB) and tabled a coastal site plan for a bank stabilization project. A public hearing for a major excavation operation special permit was continued to October 24, 2024. The meeting also approved minutes from two prior special meetings.

• Denied zoning amendment PZ#24-7ZRA for affordable housing regulations (5-0)
• Continued discussion on 18-lot resubdivision PZ#24-2RESUB to Oct 24 (5-0)
• Tabled site plan PZ#24-10SITE & PZ#24-11CAM for bank stabilization to Nov 14 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM for excavation operation to Oct 24 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Sept 12, 2024 special meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Sept 26, 2024 special meeting (5-0)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee recommended approval of 10 appointments and reappointments to various town commissions, including Inland Wetlands, Planning & Zoning, Agricultural, Historic District, Library, and Beautification. All recommendations passed 2-0 with one member excused. The committee also approved its 2025 meeting schedule and deferred two items—creating an Ethics Commission and drafting a flag ordinance—to the November 13, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended Michael Marelli to Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission (2-0)
• Recommended James Thompson to Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission (2-0)
• Recommended James Harwood to Planning & Zoning Commission (2-0)
• Recommended Michael Marelli to Agricultural Commission (2-0)
• Recommended Kelly Lamb and Vincent Godino to Historic District Commission (2-0)
• Recommended Ralph Hightower, Rolf Racich, and Peter Diette to Library Commission (2-0)
• Recommended Jennifer Eastbourne and Kathrine Kohrs to Beautification Committee (2-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (2-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council will vote to approve a tax refund of $3,925.04 for Christopher Callaghan and establish the 2025 regular meeting schedule. The agenda includes presentations from State Senator Cathy Osten and Ms. Beth Ribe regarding governance training, as well as reports from various committees. The meeting also covers the approval of previous minutes and communications regarding school roof projects and budget requests.

• Motion to approve a tax refund of $3,925.04 to Christopher Callaghan at 41 Woodridge Circle
• Motion to set the Town Council’s 2025 Regular Meeting schedule
• Presentation by Ms. Beth Ribe on a Town Governance Training proposal
• Communication regarding School Roof Projects contract schedule
• Communication regarding Perkins Coie Budget FY 25-26 request

The Ledyard Town Council approved a $3,925.04 tax refund to Christopher Callaghan for a double property tax payment, and set its 2025 regular meeting schedule (second and fourth Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.). The meeting also included a presentation by State Senator Cathy Osten on Public Act 24-46, which provides a property tax exemption for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans, and a proposal for a governance training program. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $3,925.04 tax refund to Christopher Callaghan (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Town Council meeting schedule (7-0)
• Approved minutes of September 25, 2024 (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission will approve the September 10, 2024 minutes and review financial reports for the White Hall GL account, general conservation, and trail maintenance. The body will continue discussions on the Pollinator Pathways Project and field clearing at the White-Hall Property. The only new business item is a vote on the 2025 calendar year meeting schedule, followed by a discussion of the Greenskies Solar Farm Project.

• Vote on the Conservation Committee 2025 Calendar Year Meeting Schedule
• Discussion of the Greenskies Solar Farm Project
• Review of Financial Reports: White Hall GL account detail, Conservation general YTD, and Trail Maintenance YTD
• Continuation of the Pollinator Pathways Project
• Field Clearing at White-Hall Property

The Ledyard Conservation Commission approved its 2025 calendar year meeting schedule and the September 10, 2024 meeting minutes. No public comments were received. The commission discussed several informational items, including a solar array proposal in Stonington and updates to state conservation plans, but took no action on them.

• Approved September 10, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (6-0)

Cemetery Committee

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee meets to approve September minutes and review fiscal reports. The agenda includes updates on flags, adopters, and veterans, as well as continued discussion on right-of-way and cemetery book updates. The primary decision is a vote on the 2025 calendar year meeting schedule.

• Vote on the Cemetery Committee 2025 Calendar Year Meeting Schedule
• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes from September 10, 2024
• Continued discussion on Right of Way (ROW)
• Update on Cemetery Book
• Review of Fiscal Reports

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee met on October 8, 2024, but could not hold votes due to a lack of quorum. Members discussed flag selection (preferring sleeved silk flags), cemetery adoptions, and a 2025 meeting schedule, which was informally approved but not voted on. No formal decisions were made.

• No votes occurred due to lack of quorum
• Agreed to use sleeved silk flags over cotton stapled flags (informal)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule informally, no vote
• Discussed creating volunteer work parties for cemetery cleanup

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items. They will continue discussions on blight enforcement, consider drafting a noise ordinance, and review provisions for illegal dumping. The committee will also vote on extending archery hunting on town-owned lands and setting its 2025 meeting schedule.

• Continued discussion on enforcing blight regulations (Ordinance ORD-300-012-rev-1)
• Discussion to draft a noise ordinance (requested by Ms. Johnston, Aug 12, 2024 email)
• Discussion on provisions to address illegal dumping (draft ordinance ORD-ILLEGAL DUMPING-2024-09-03)
• Motion to extend archery hunting on town-owned lands for one year (Ordinance #100-018 rev. 1)
• Motion to set 2025 regular meeting schedule

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved a motion to consult the Town Attorney regarding performance issues with The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor, Inc., which is behind schedule on the Gales Ferry School roof project. The committee also approved multiple invoices and payment applications for roof and HVAC projects, and discussed ongoing concerns about the contractor's progress and potential delays.

• Approved consultation with Town Attorney re: Imperial Company performance issues (5-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032098 for $1,781.00 (5-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032099 for $9,943.28 (5-0)
• Approved STV Construction invoice #90032100 for $9,874.00 (5-0)
• Approved Imperial Company payment application for $39,060.00 (5-0)
• Approved Imperial Company payment application for $121,365.00 (5-0)
• Approved Gold Seal Roofing payment for $147,254.15 (5-0)
• Approved 2025 regular meeting schedule (5-0)

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority will hold its regular meeting on October 7, 2024, at Kings Corner Manor. The board will vote to accept financial reports for August and September 2024, approve the August 5, 2024 minutes, and set the 2025 meeting schedule. They will also discuss renovation updates, a live-in caregiver policy, and lease/rule revisions.

• Motion to accept Payments of Bills and Financial Reports for August and September 2024
• Motion to approve August 5, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion and possible action on Live-In Caregiver Policy
• Discussion on renovation updates
• Motion to set 2025 regular meeting schedule

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee approved a donation of up to $500 to the Rotary Club for entertainment services at four 2024 Summer Market events, and approved the 2025 meeting schedule. The committee also approved the August 12, 2024 special meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved up to $500 donation to Rotary Club for 2024 Summer Market entertainment (5-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved August 12, 2024 special meeting minutes (5-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Ledyard Economic Development Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on October 1, 2024, to approve minutes and a specific invoice. The agenda includes updates on the Corridor Study and the FY 2023-2024 Annual Report. New business involves a motion to pay a regional invoice and a discussion on business directional signage.

• Motion to pay Southeastern Connecticut Enterprise Region invoice of July 12, 2024 for $6,935.85
• Discussion of Business Directional Signage
• Update on Corridor Study
• Review and update of the FY2022-2023 Annual Report
• Development of the FY 2023-2024 EDC Annual Report

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing on a special use permit and coastal area management review for a major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12 in Gales Ferry. The hearing included presentations on archaeology, engineering, blasting, traffic, and air emissions, with commissioners asking detailed questions. No decision was made; the hearing was continued to the October 10, 2024 special meeting. The meeting adjourned at 10:17 p.m. with a 6-0 vote.

• Continued public hearing PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM to October 10, 2024 special meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 10:17 p.m. (6-0)

Town Council

The Town Council approved amendments to Ordinance #100-011, renaming it to establish a Youth and Social Services Board but removing all references to youth services, effectively formalizing the dissolution of the Youth Services Department. The decision followed a lengthy discussion where residents and councilors raised concerns about the loss of youth mental health services, but staff argued the services were underutilized and available through other agencies. The council also approved a digital sign use policy, a Gold Star Families tax relief ordinance, amendments to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee ordinance, and several other administrative items.

• Approved amendments to Ordinance #100-011 establishing Social Services Board, removing youth references (7-0)
• Approved Town of Ledyard Digital Sign Use Policy (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance Providing Tax Relief for Gold Star Families (7-0)
• Adopted amendments to Ordinance #100-015 Permanent Municipal Building Committee (7-0)
• Appointed Cynthia Wright to Library Commission (7-0)
• Approved tax refund to Hoops & Associates LLC for $2,523.86 (7-0)
• Appropriated $4,063.07 Early Voting Grant for Registrar expenses (7-0)
• Approved minutes of September 11, 2024 meetings (7-0)

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Ledyard Water Pollution Control Authority is holding a regular meeting to review old business, including the Trail/Sewer line project, lead service line survey and grant submittal, and the Lakeside Association pump replacements. New business includes an emergency plan update from Groton Utilities, a Department of Public Health grant, and a new Gerber installation estimate. The board will also vote on two payments: $5,441.62 to Groton Utilities for lead inventory and $66,125.00 to Weston & Samson for professional services.

• Review of Trail/Sewer line continued progress report with Gerber invoices and Phase 3 bid
• Lead survey review and grant submittal update
• Lakeside Association pump replacements update
• Motion to approve $5,441.62 payment to Groton Utilities for lead inventory
• Motion to approve $66,125.00 payment to Weston & Samson for professional services

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved payments for lead inventory and Phase III design services, and discussed water bill relief for two residents with unusually high usage. No final relief decisions were made; the Authority will review rate options and data before deciding.

• Approved $5,441.62 payment to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (6-0)
• Approved $66,125.00 payment to Weston & Samson for Phase III design services (6-0)
• Approved August 27, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments (6-0)
• Appointed Jim Ball and Jeremy Norris as voting members
• Discussed possible rate structure changes for high-water usage cases; no action taken
• Tabled relief decision for 1026 Long Cove Road pending further data review

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee is meeting to discuss potential uses for National Opioid Settlement funds, including a proposal from Community Speaks Out for a recovery coach program, and to continue discussions on the Capital Improvement Plan and ARPA-funded projects. They will also consider a request from the Board of Education for a comprehensive infrastructure study of school facilities and vote on a tax refund to Hoops & Associates LLC.

• Discussion on allocating opioid settlement funds to Community Speaks Out Recovery Coach Program
• Continued discussion on Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Capital Non-Recurring (CNR) Fund status and ARPA project approval process
• Request from Board of Education Chairman for comprehensive infrastructure study of school facilities
• Motion to approve tax refund of $2,523.86 to Hoops & Associates LLC, 19A Thames St., Groton, CT
• Approval of Finance Committee minutes from September 4, 2024

The Finance Committee approved a tax refund of $2,523.86 to Hoops & Associates LLC due to a double payment of property taxes, and recommended it for approval. They also discussed potential uses of opioid settlement funds, including a proposal from Community Speaks Out, and reviewed ARPA project statuses. No final decisions were made on these discussions.

• Approved minutes of September 4, 2024 (3-0)
• Approved tax refund of $2,523.86 to Hoops & Associates LLC (3-0), recommended for approval

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Ledyard Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion will discuss and possibly act on scheduling public information forums, hosting 'Informal Conversations in the Park' at specific venues, and improving communication with residents. They will also discuss starting a relationship with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council and researching opioid settlement funding for substance abuse programs. The meeting includes approval of the August 21, 2024 minutes.

• Continued discussion on scheduling Public Information Forums to explain town services
• Discussion of 'Informal Conversations in the Park' at Long Pond on Lantern Hill Road and Winthrop Park near Gales Ferry Community Center
• Discussion on increasing communication/transparency, including a resident's suggestion for town governance training
• Discussion on starting a relationship with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council
• Research on community organizations for opioid and substance abuse programs using Opioid Settlement Funding

The Ledyard Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion approved its August 21, 2024 minutes (3-0) and continued discussions on public information forums, informal conversations in parks (including pickleball courts at Winthrop Park), and a resident's proposal for a governance training program. No formal decisions were made on these discussion items; they remain under consideration for future meetings.

• Approved August 21, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Continued discussion on public information forums; no action taken
• Continued discussion on informal conversations in parks; no action taken
• Discussed resident Beth Ribe's governance training proposal; no action taken
• Discussed outreach to Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council; no action taken
• Discussed opioid settlement funding outreach; no action taken

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission held a special facilities meeting on September 17, 2024, with all commissioners present. The only substantive item was a discussion of maintenance contracts, which were referred to the Facilities Subcommittee for review. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

• Discussed maintenance contracts and referred them to the Facilities Subcommittee

Agricultural Commission

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission met on September 17, 2024, and approved the minutes from its July 16, 2024 meeting. The commission discussed the passing of two community members, Keith Parkinson and Paul Maugle, and noted a new barn opening on Pumpkin Hill Road. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from July 16, 2024 (5-0, 2 excused)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board will review investment performance and fee structures with Fiducient Advisors. The board will vote to approve minutes from June 18 and August 20, 2024. It will also discuss labor contract reviews and an amendment to the full-time employee retirement plan.

• Approval of $35,485.68 death benefit payment for David Browning's accumulated balance
• Discussion of Amendment 2015-1 to the Retirement Plan for Full-Time Employees
• Review of labor contracts and retirement documents for employee groups
• Presentation by Fiducient Advisors on fee structure and performance history

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved moving international equity investments from T. Rowe Price to John Hancock and increasing the Vanguard index fund allocation, while deferring other manager changes. The board also approved prior meeting minutes, two invoices for consulting and actuarial services, and discussed but did not vote on a death benefit payment and a retirement plan amendment.

• Approved closing T. Rowe Price Overseas and moving 6% to John Hancock, 1.4% to Vanguard Index (5-0, 1 excused)
• Approved June 18, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 excused)
• Approved August 20, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 excused)
• Approved $12,475.39 invoice to Fiducient Advisors for consulting (5-0, 1 excused)
• Approved $1,200.00 invoice to USI for benefit calculations (5-0, 1 excused)
• Withdrew motion to approve $35,485.68 death benefit payment for David Browning (5-0, 1 excused)

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee is approving three large payment applications totaling approximately $1.6 million for roof replacement and photovoltaic projects at Gales Ferry School, BOE Central Offices, and Juliet Long School. The meeting also includes updates on the Juliet Long HVAC project and a discussion on increased insurance costs for the ongoing roof work.

• Approval of $850,020.00 payment to The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor for Gales Ferry School roof project
• Approval of $676,253.22 payment to Gold Seal Roofing LLC for Juliet Long School roof replacement and photovoltaic project
• Approval of $75,253.74 payment to The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor for Ledyard BOE Offices roof project
• Approval of $13,545.00 invoice to Friar Architecture for Juliet Long HVAC project
• Discussion of increased costs to extend CIRMA builder’s risk policy for Gales Ferry and BOE roof projects

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved multiple payments for ongoing school roof and solar projects, including $850,020 for Gales Ferry School, $75,253.74 for BOE Offices, and $676,253.22 for Juliet Long School. They also approved three invoices from Silver Petrucelli & Associates for project oversight, a $1,250 CIRMA insurance increase, and a $13,545 invoice for HVAC design work. The committee voted to begin the process of hiring an Owner's Representative for the Juliet Long HVAC project. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved $850,020 payment to Imperial Company for Gales Ferry School (7-0)
• Approved $75,253.74 payment to Imperial Company for BOE Offices (7-0)
• Approved $676,253.22 payment to Gold Seal Roofing for Juliet Long School (7-0)
• Approved $1,890 invoice from Silver Petrucelli for Gales Ferry roof/PV oversight (7-0)
• Approved $1,890 invoice from Silver Petrucelli for Juliet Long roof/PV oversight (7-0)
• Approved $498 invoice from Silver Petrucelli for BOE roof oversight (7-0)
• Approved $1,250 CIRMA Builder's Risk insurance increase (7-0)
• Approved $13,545 Friar Architecture invoice for Juliet Long HVAC design (7-0)

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission is holding its regular meeting, where it will accept the resignations of two commission members, Cronin and Nash. The commission will also review the Treasurer's Report for June through August 2024, the Director's Report, and updates from the Investment Working Group, Consortium Working Group, and Friends of the Ledyard Library. Minutes from the June 17, 2024 meeting will be considered for approval.

• Resignations of commission members Cronin and Nash
• Treasurer's Reports for June, July, and August 2024
• Director's Report for September 2024
• Bill Library Association Portfolio Update for July 2024
• Approval of June 17, 2024 meeting minutes

The Ledyard Library Commission accepted the resignation of Brian Cronin, effective immediately, and the retirement of Rebecca Nash at the end of her term. The commission noted that if Cynthia Wright is still interested, she would be the sixth appointed Democrat, and the next commissioner must be unaffiliated or a registered Republican per state statutes. The commission also approved the June 17, 2024 meeting minutes with a 5-0 vote and three abstentions.

• Accepted resignation of Brian Cronin, effective immediately
• Accepted retirement of Rebecca Nash at end of term
• Approved June 17, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 3 abstentions)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:34 p.m. (8-0)

Public Safety Commission

The commission approved the June 17, 2024 meeting minutes. They discussed ongoing police radio encryption talks with the state, a fire/EMS radio project update, and a review of emergency medical dispatch practices. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved minutes of June 17, 2024 meeting (moved by John Rich, seconded by Joshua Beaulieu)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting with public hearings and decisions on two major applications: proposed zoning regulation amendments to add affordable housing developments under CGS §8-30g, and a special use permit/coastal site plan review for a major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12. The commission will also discuss an 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision at Stoddards Wharf Road and review a bank stabilization project on Mill Cove.

• Public hearing and decision on PZ#24-7ZRA: amendments to zoning regulations to add 'Affordable Housing Developments (R.I.G.L. §8-30g Applications)'
• Public hearing and decision on PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM: Special Use Permit and Coastal Site Plan Review for major excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12, Gales Ferry
• Discussion and decision on PZ#24-2RESUB: 18-lot resubdivision/affordable housing development at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd.
• New application PZ#24-10SITE & PZ#24-11CAM: bank stabilization project on Mill Cove at 109 Military Highway
• Approval of minutes from August 8 and August 22, 2024 meetings

The Planning and Zoning Commission continued two public hearings: one on proposed zoning regulation amendments to add affordable housing provisions, and another on a special use permit for a major excavation operation in Gales Ferry. No final decisions were made on either application; both were continued to future meetings. The commission also tabled discussion on an 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision and a bank stabilization project, and approved minutes from two prior meetings.

• Continued public hearing on PZ#24-7ZRA (zoning amendments for affordable housing) to Oct 10, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing on PZ#24-8SUP/9CAM (excavation operation at 1737/1761 CT-12) to Sept 26, 2024 (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on PZ#24-2RESUB (18-lot affordable housing resubdivision) to Oct 10, 2024 (5-0)
• Tabled PZ#24-10SITE/11CAM (bank stabilization at 109 Military Highway) to Oct 10, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 8, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 22, 2024 special meeting (5-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council is holding a public hearing on two proposed ordinances: one providing property tax relief for Gold Star Families and another amending Ordinance #100-011 to establish a Youth & Social Services Board. Residents may comment for up to three minutes. No final votes are scheduled at this hearing; it is for public input only.

• Public hearing on proposed ordinance providing tax relief for Gold Star Families
• Public hearing on amendments to Ordinance #100-011 establishing a Youth & Social Services Board
• Resident comments limited to three minutes
• Meeting held in person and via Zoom

The Ledyard Town Council held a public hearing on two proposed ordinances: one providing property tax relief for Gold Star families and another amending the Social Services Board ordinance to remove youth services. No votes were taken; the ordinances will be considered at the September 25, 2024 Town Council meeting.

• Public hearing held on proposed Gold Star family tax relief ordinance
• Public hearing held on proposed amendments to Ordinance #100-011 (Social Services Board)
• Ordinances moved to Town Council meeting on September 25, 2024

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council will consider several financial items, including authorizing engineering design for sewer mains along Fairway/Colby Drives and Route 117, and approving a special appropriation for land use consultants. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval and communications.

• Motion to authorize sewer main engineering design: Fairway/Colby Drives ($108,000) and Route 117 ($137,500), funded by $245,500 transfer from CNR Undesignated
• Motion to approve $75,000 special appropriation from Undesignated Fund Balance for Land Use Professional/Tech Services
• Motion to approve tax refund of $3,817.82 to June Munch, 119 Whalehead Rd., Gales Ferry
• Approval of minutes from August 14 and September 4, 2024 meetings
• Communications include quarry application, flag flying memo, and resignations from Library Commission

The Town Council approved $245,500 from the CNR Undesignated account for engineering design of sewer mains along Fairway/Colby Drives and Route 117. The Council also approved a $75,000 special appropriation for Land Use consultants and a $3,817.82 tax refund. A request from the Board of Education for a comprehensive infrastructure study was referred to the Finance Committee.

• Approved $245,500 for sewer main engineering design (7-0)
• Approved $75,000 for Land Use consultants (7-0)
• Approved $3,817.82 tax refund to June Munch (7-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 14 and Sep 4 meetings (7-0)
• Added BOE infrastructure study discussion to agenda (6-0-1)
• Referred comprehensive infrastructure study to Finance Committee

Administration Committee

The Ledyard Administration Committee is scheduled to vote on amendments to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee ordinance and discuss creating a Town Ethics Commission. The body will also approve a Digital Sign Use Policy and appoint a new Library Commission member. A public hearing on the building committee changes is set for October 23, 2024.

• Motion to adopt amendments to Ordinance #100-015 establishing a Permanent Municipal Building Committee
• Discussion and possible action to create a Town of Ledyard Ethics Commission
• Motion to approve a proposed Town of Ledyard Digital Sign Use Policy
• Motion to appoint Cynthia Wright to the Library Commission to fill a vacancy
• Discussion to draft an ordinance regarding the raising of unofficial third-party flags on town property

The Administration Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of amended Ordinance #100-015, which establishes a Permanent Municipal Building Committee, and set a public hearing for October 23, 2024. The committee also recommended approval of a new Digital Sign Use Policy and the appointment of Cynthia Wright to the Library Commission. Discussion on creating an Ethics Commission was continued to the October 9, 2024 meeting, and no action was taken on a proposed ordinance regarding unofficial third-party flags.

• Approved amended Ordinance #100-015 establishing Permanent Municipal Building Committee (3-0)
• Set public hearing for Oct 23, 2024 on amended Ordinance #100-015 (3-0)
• Approved Town of Ledyard Digital Sign Use Policy (3-0)
• Approved appointment of Cynthia Wright to Library Commission (3-0)
• Continued discussion on Ethics Commission to Oct 9, 2024 meeting
• Took no action on ordinance regarding unofficial third-party flags

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission is holding its regular meeting, primarily covering routine items such as approving minutes, correspondence, public comments, and informational items. Old business includes property walks, financial reports, the Pollinator Pathways Project, and field clearing at White-Hall Property. No major decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes from August 13, 2024
• Financial reports: Trail Maintenance YTD 8-28-24 and Conservation general YTD 8-28-24
• Pollinator Pathways Project continued
• Field Clearing at White-Hall Property

The Ledyard Conservation Commission held a regular meeting with no substantive decisions. They approved the August 13, 2023 meeting minutes with an amendment to correct an organization name. Other items were informational or discussed, including property maintenance, the Pollinator Pathways project, and upcoming events.

• Approved August 13, 2023 meeting minutes as amended (7-0)
• Amended minutes to replace 'Lantern Hill Valley Association' with 'Lantern Hill Valley Alliance'
• Adjourned meeting at 7:38 p.m. (7-0)

Cemetery Committee

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, review a fiscal report, and discuss committee updates. Old business includes a continued right-of-way matter and a cemetery book update, while new business covers social media interest. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve June 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Fiscal report review
• Right-of-way (ROW) continued discussion
• Cemetery book update
• Social media interest discussion

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee approved the June 11, 2024 meeting minutes and discussed upcoming flag purchases, veteran grave identification, and cemetery maintenance. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only official action was the minutes approval. The committee also discussed right-of-way issues and a cemetery book update.

• Approved June 11, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0-1 excused)
• Agreed to provide pre-addressed postcards for sextons to offer flag placement for veterans' graves
• Agreed to create a Facebook page for public outreach, pending committee approval
• Agreed to exchange contact information among members via email

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee will discuss drafting a noise ordinance and provisions to address illegal dumping, both as new business. They will also continue prior discussions on enforcing blight regulations and the historical designation of the Spicer Homestead Ruins. The meeting includes public comments and approval of the August 5, 2024 minutes.

• Discussion to draft a noise ordinance, requested via Ms. Johnston's August 12, 2024 email
• Discussion to consider provisions to address illegal dumping
• Continued discussion on enforcing blight regulations (ORD-300-012-rev-1)
• Spicer Homestead Ruins historical research and next steps for historic designation
• Approval of minutes from August 5, 2024

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Ledyard Permanent Municipal Building Committee is holding a special meeting to review progress on roof replacements at Juliet Long School, Gales Ferry School, and the Board of Education Central Office. The agenda includes motions to approve three payment applications totaling approximately $1.6 million for these construction projects. The committee will also discuss the Juliet Long School HVAC project scope, including the potential hiring of an Owner's Representative, and review updates on summer projects.

• Motion to approve $850,020.00 payment to The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor, Inc. for Project 24-135 Gales Ferry School
• Motion to approve $676,253.22 payment to Gold Seal Roofing LLC for Project 24-139 Juliet Long School Roof Replacement and Photovoltaic Project
• Motion to approve $75,253.74 payment to The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor, Inc. for Project 24-137 Ledyard BOE Offices
• Motion to approve $13,545.00 invoice to Friar Architecture for Project 2023-121A Ledyard - Juliet Long HVAC
• Discussion on increased costs to extend CIRMA builder’s risk policy for Gales Ferry School and BOE Central Offices roof projects

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council is holding a special meeting that consists solely of an executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding land use matters. The council will also consider appointing the law firm Halloran & Sage LLP as the town's alternate land use attorney. No public decisions or votes on substantive items are scheduled.

• Motion to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation on land use matters
• Motion to appoint Halloran & Sage LLP as Alternate Land Use Attorney

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee is meeting to approve financial reports and vote on specific funding motions. Key decisions include authorizing engineering design for sewer mains and a special appropriation for land use consultants. The committee will also continue discussions on the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, National Opioid Settlement payments, and beverage container surcharge revenues.

• Motion to authorize $245,500 for engineering design of sewer mains along Fairway/Colby Drives ($108,000) and Route 117 ($137,500) via Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc.
• Motion to approve a $75,000 special appropriation from Undesignated Fund Balance for Land Use Professional/Tech Services.
• Motion to approve a $3,817.82 tax refund to June Munch of 119 Whalehead Rd., Gales Ferry.
• Discussion on potential uses for National Opioid Settlement Payments and Public Act No. 21-58 beverage container surcharge revenues.

The Finance Committee approved a $245,500 transfer from the Capital Non-Recurring (CNR) Undesignated Account to fund engineering design for sewer mains along Fairway/Colby Drives and Route 117. They also recommended a $75,000 special appropriation for Land Use Department consultants and approved a $3,817.82 tax refund. The committee continued discussions on ARPA fund reallocation and the CIP/CNR status.

• Approved $245,500 transfer for sewer main engineering design (3-0)
• Approved $75,000 special appropriation for Land Use consultants (3-0)
• Approved $3,817.82 tax refund to June Munch (3-0)
• Approved minutes of August 14, 2024 special meeting (3-0)

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes from July 2, 2024, review financial reports, and discuss future projects. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of July 2, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of financial reports including budget and donation details as of July and August 2024
• Discussion of future projects

The Ledyard Beautification Committee voted to move forward with Thirty Marketing to sell custom Veteran signs at $45 each, with $5 per sign going toward a flag street pole banners fundraiser, and authorized a $100 deposit if needed. The motion was discussed and approved. Other items were discussed but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved motion to sell $45 custom Veteran signs with $5 fundraiser markup (5-0)
• Authorized up to $100 deposit for Thirty Marketing signs
• Approved July 2, 2024 meeting minutes as written (5-0)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission is holding a public hearing and discussion on a proposal by C.R. Klewin LLC to build a 353-unit multifamily residential development at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway in Gales Ferry. The commission will also consider an as-of-right determination for trail work by Avalonia Land Conservancy and proposed text amendments to wetland regulations. The agenda includes several public comments and exhibits related to the housing application.

• Public hearing on IWWC#24-9: 353-unit multifamily housing at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway
• Discussion and decision on IWWC#24-9 (same application)
• As-of-right determination for three wetland crossings and trail reroute at 32 & 35 Avery Hill Road (Avalonia Land Conservancy)
• Proposed text amendments to Inland Wetlands Regulations Sections 2.1, 7.5.b, 7.6.1, 7.8, 7.9, 11.6, 19.b, & 20
• Approval of minutes from August 6 and August 24, 2024 meetings

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Ledyard Water Pollution Control Authority will hold a regular meeting to review operations reports, approve minutes and payments, and continue discussions on several ongoing items, including a Habitat for Humanity proposal, water usage reports, trail/sewer line work, a lead survey and grant submittal, and a Lakeside Association agreement. The board will also consider approving two payments: $1,201.86 to Groton Utilities for lead inventory and $361.67 to Ti-Sales for a Neptune meter.

• Motion to approve payment of $1,201.86 to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (invoice #0024190)
• Motion to approve payment of $361.67 to Ti-Sales for Neptune meter purchase (invoice INV0174094)
• Continued discussion of Habitat for Humanity proposal
• Review of lead service line inventory and grant submittal
• Discussion of Trail/Sewer line Phase II design

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved preliminary engineering designs for sewer main extensions along Route 117 and Fairway Drive, subject to funding availability. The board also approved payments for a lead inventory and a meter purchase, and discussed a resident's high water bill and a proposed 600-unit development.

• Approved preliminary Weston & Sampson Amendment 4 Route 117 sewer design, $137,500, subject to funding (5-0)
• Approved preliminary Weston & Sampson Amendment 3 Fairway Drive sewer design, $108,000, subject to funding (5-0)
• Approved $1,201.86 payment to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (5-0)
• Approved $361.67 payment to Ti-Sales for Neptune meter (5-0)
• Approved July 23, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission will hold a site walk and special meeting at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway in Gales Ferry to inspect the property for a proposed 320-unit multifamily residential development. Discussion at the site walk is limited to locating plan features in the field. The application (IWWC#24-9) was submitted by C.R. Klewin LLC and a public hearing is set for September 3, 2024.

• Site walk for IWWC#24-9: 320-unit multifamily housing development at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway
• Applicant/Owner: C.R. Klewin LLC
• Public hearing scheduled for 9/3/2024
• Decision required within 35 days after public hearing closes

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission held a special meeting site walk at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway for a proposed 355-unit multifamily housing development by C.R. Klewin LLC. No decisions were made; the meeting was limited to locating proposed improvements on the site. The public hearing is scheduled for September 3, 2024.

• Adjourned site walk meeting (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting to continue and potentially close the public hearing and make a decision on an 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision at 96-100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. The commission will also discuss proposed zoning regulation amendments related to affordable housing and excavation, and review project review fees for a separate application.

• Public hearing and decision on PZ#24-2RESUB: 18-lot affordable housing development at 96, 98, 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. (Avery Brook Homes, LLC)
• Discussion and decision on PZ#24-7ZRA: proposed amendments to zoning regulations to add affordable housing development provisions and revise excavation, multifamily, and parking sections
• Discussion of project review fees for PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM: special use permit and coastal area management review for excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12, Gales Ferry

The Planning & Zoning Commission voted 5-0 to close the public hearing for the 18-lot resubdivision/affordable housing development at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. No decision was made on the application itself; discussion and decision were tabled. The commission also approved retaining experts for the Gales Ferry Intermodal special use permit application and continued a zoning regulation amendment hearing to September 12.

• Closed public hearing for PZ#24-2RESUB, 18-lot affordable housing development (5-0)
• Approved request to retain experts for PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for PZ#24-7ZRA zoning amendments to September 12, 2024
• Took no action on PZ#24-7ZRA discussion and decision
• Took no action on PZ#24-2RESUB discussion and decision

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ledyard Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing and vote on application ZBA#967. The applicant seeks a 25.54-foot variance to reduce lot frontage to 124.46 feet in the R40 zone to correct a survey error. The board will also approve the minutes from the December 20, 2023 meeting.

• Public Hearing ZBA#967: 25.54' variance of Section 5.2 (Lot Frontage - R40 Zone) at 65 Inchcliffe Dr., Gales Ferry, CT
• Applicant Cheryl Winston (Schulman) seeks to reduce lot frontage to 124.46' to correct a survey error
• Approval of Regular Annual Meeting Minutes from December 20, 2023

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for 65 Inchcliffe Dr., Gales Ferry, reducing the required lot frontage from 150 ft to 124.46 ft to correct a survey error. The vote was 5-0. The board also approved the minutes from the December 20, 2023 meeting.

• Approved variance ZBA#967 for 65 Inchcliffe Dr. to reduce lot frontage from 150 ft to 124.46 ft (5-0)
• Approved minutes of December 20, 2023 regular meeting (5-0)

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The committee continued discussions on scheduling public information forums and creating short educational videos to improve resident communication, but took no formal votes on these items. It approved the June 5, 2024 special meeting minutes (3-0) and adjourned. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved June 5, 2024 special meeting minutes (3-0)
• Continued discussion on public information forums and educational videos (no action)
• Continued discussion on increasing communication/transparency with residents (no action)
• No action on starting relationship with Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council
• Continued research on opioid settlement funding for recovery programs

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission is meeting to discuss several items, including a proposal to allow a Boy Scout to build a stage on the Ledyard Town Green, an ARPA grant agreement, and the annual report. They will also review maintenance contracts and consider a summer camp letter. The meeting includes routine items like minutes approval and director's report.

• Discussion to allow Boy Scout to build a stage on Ledyard Town Green
• ARPA Grant and Agreement presentation
• Review of maintenance contracts (RFP 2019-03 Grass Cutting, RFP 2019-04 Routine Maintenance, RFP 2019-05 Turf Management)
• Summer Camp Letter and Annual Report FY24
• August Director's Report

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board will review its second-quarter 2024 financial performance and approve minutes from its June 18 meeting. The primary decision involves approving a monthly retirement benefit of $3,207.60 for Karen Goetchius, effective September 1, 2024, which was previously tabled. The board will also approve a $3,300 invoice for actuarial services related to Goetchius's benefit calculation and approve a new monthly benefit for Mark Yuells.

• Motion to approve a monthly retirement benefit of $3,207.60 for Karen Goetchius effective September 1, 2024
• Motion to approve a $3,300 invoice from USI for Karen Goetchius benefit calculation and actuarial services
• Motion to approve a monthly retirement benefit for Mark Yuells
• Presentation by Chris Rowlins of Fiducient Advisors on the Second Quarter 2024 review

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved a monthly retirement benefit of $3,207.60 for Karen Goetchius, a $3,300.00 USI invoice for benefit calculation and actuarial services, and a monthly retirement benefit for Mark Yuells. The board tabled approval of the June 18, 2024 meeting minutes until September 17, 2024, because two members were absent. A presentation by Fiducient Advisors recommended changing international investment managers, with a fee report to be provided in September.

• Approved monthly retirement benefit of $3,207.60 for Karen Goetchius (5-0)
• Approved USI invoice #90097419 for $3,300.00 (5-0)
• Approved monthly retirement benefit for Mark Yuells (5-0)
• Tabled approval of June 18, 2024 meeting minutes until September 17, 2024

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee recommended approval of a $257,000 bid waiver for Vision Government Solutions to conduct the town's revaluation, noting the cost exceeds the $187,000 budgeted. The committee also recommended approving a $90,888 appropriation for mental health clinicians at two elementary schools, a $66,467.49 annual lease for a shared street sweeper with Preston, and several other items. A motion to fund $245,500 in sewer design engineering was tabled until the next meeting.

• Recommended bid waiver for Vision Government Solutions revaluation services, $257,000 (2-0)
• Recommended $90,888 ARPA appropriation for Child & Family Agency clinicians at Gales Ferry and Juliet W. Long Schools (2-0)
• Recommended $66,467.49/year lease-purchase of Elgin Pelican street sweeper, shared with Preston (2-0)
• Recommended $30,300 supplemental engineering services for Multi-Use Pathway (2-0)
• Recommended $245,500 sewer design engineering for Fairway/Colby Drives and Route 117 — TABLED (2-0)
• Recommended $7,250 appropriation from GovDeals vehicle sales to capital accounts (2-0)
• Recommended salary adjustments for Administrative Assistant ($80,217) and Executive Assistant ($56,952) with $20,000 from Undesignated (2-0)
• Recommended $3,000 appropriation to Land Use from blight fine settlement (2-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council is holding a special meeting that consists almost entirely of a motion to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding town-owned property. No other business items are listed on the agenda. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers.

• Motion to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding town-owned property

The Ledyard Town Council held a special meeting and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding town-owned property. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned immediately after the session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session for pending litigation (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting after executive session (8-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council will vote on several financial actions, including a $257,000 contract for municipal revaluation services and $245,500 for sewer engineering design. The body will also approve a five-year lease for a street sweeper and transfer federal education funds to the Board of Education. Additionally, the council will set a public hearing date for proposed tax relief for Gold Star families and amendments to the Youth & Social Services Board ordinance.

• Motion to grant a $257,000 bid waiver to Vision Government Solutions for Revaluation Services
• Motion to appropriate $245,500 for sewer main engineering design along Fairway/Colby Drives and Route 117
• Motion to approve a five-year lease for a new Elgin Pelican sweeper at $66,467.49 per year
• Motion to transfer $304,635 in Federal Impact Aid and $39,502 in ASTE funding to the Board of Education
• Motion to set a public hearing for September 11, 2024, regarding Gold Star Family tax relief and Youth & Social Services Board amendments

The Ledyard Town Council approved $90,888 in ARPA funds for Child and Family Agency clinicians at Gales Ferry and Juliet W. Long schools for one year. They also approved a $257,000 bid waiver for revaluation services, a shared street sweeper purchase with Preston, and several other appropriations. All votes were 8-0.

• Approved $90,888 ARPA appropriation for school mental health clinicians (8-0)
• Approved $257,000 bid waiver for Vision Government Solutions revaluation (8-0)
• Approved $66,467.49/year lease-purchase of Elgin Pelican street sweeper shared with Preston (8-0)
• Approved $30,300 ARPA transfer for Multi-Use Pathway geotechnical services (8-0)
• Approved $245,500 for sewer main engineering design (tabled, no action)
• Approved salary adjustments for Administrative Assistant and Executive Assistant (8-0)
• Approved $3,000 appropriation from blight fines to Land Use (8-0)
• Approved $7,250 appropriation from GovDeals sales to capital accounts (8-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission is holding its regular meeting, primarily to review and approve the July 9, 2024 minutes and to discuss old and new business. Key items include continued work on the Pollinator Pathways Project, field clearing at White-Hall Property, and a new discussion on the Burton Trail Management Proposal. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Approve minutes from July 9, 2024
• Continued discussion on Pollinator Pathways Project
• Field clearing at White-Hall Property
• Review of SCCOG Open Spaces Plan draft
• Discussion of Burton Trail Management Proposal

The Ledyard Conservation Commission approved spending up to $2,000 for FW Foresters to survey and create a management plan for the Burton Property at 90 Gallup Hill Road. The commission also approved the July 9, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments, and discussed several informational items, including the Stoddard's Wharf development and the Pollinator Pathways project.

• Approved up to $2,000 for FW Foresters to survey and create a management plan for the Burton Property at 90 Gallup Hill Road (6-0)
• Approved July 9, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments (6-0)

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee will hold a special meeting to review and vote on payments for ongoing roof, solar, and HVAC projects at Ledyard schools. They will also discuss the Juliet Long HVAC project and consider hiring an owner's representative. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and citizen comments.

• Approve $945.00 invoice for Juliet Long Roof & PV project
• Approve $945.00 invoice for Gales Ferry Roof and PV project
• Approve $113,925.00 payment for Ledyard BOE Offices project
• Approve $67,239.00 payment for Gales Ferry School project
• Approve $140,986.33 payment for Juliet Long School roof and PV project

The committee approved the project drawings and specifications for the Juliet Long School HVAC project, along with a $67,725 invoice from Friar Architecture. It also approved several payments for roof and solar projects, including $113,925 for BOE offices and $140,986.33 for Juliet Long roof work. The committee discussed drainage issues at Juliet Long and the Gales Ferry roof project, but took no action on those items. The meeting was procedural in part, with no citizen comments and no action on the owner's representative RFQ/RFP, which was continued.

• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #24-870 for $945 for Juliet Long roof & PV (5-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #24-869 for $945 for Gales Ferry roof & PV (5-0)
• Approved Imperial Company payment application of $113,925 for BOE Offices Project 24-137 (5-0)
• Approved Imperial Company payment application of $67,239 for Gales Ferry School Project 24-135 (5-0)
• Approved Gold Seal Roofing payment of $140,986.33 for Juliet Long roof replacement (5-0)
• Approved Juliet Long HVAC project drawings & specifications (5-0)
• Approved Friar Architecture invoice #2023-121A-03 for $67,725 for Juliet Long HVAC (5-0)
• Continued discussion on Owner's Representative RFQ/RFP for Juliet Long HVAC to next meeting

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee held a special meeting on August 12, 2024, and approved a motion to allocate $500 for legal fees. The committee also approved the minutes from June 6, 2024, and entered executive session to review vendor contracts. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $500 allocation for legal fees (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 6, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved motion to enter executive session to review vendor contracts (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and make a decision on an 18-lot resubdivision and affordable housing development at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. The commission will also discuss and decide on proposed amendments to zoning regulations regarding affordable housing, excavation, and multifamily uses. Additionally, there will be a discussion on project review fees for a special use permit application at 1737 and 1761 Connecticut Route 12.

• Public hearing and decision on PZ#24-2RESUB: 18-lot affordable housing development at 96, 98, 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd.
• Discussion and decision on PZ#24-7ZRA: amendments to zoning regulations for affordable housing, excavation, and multifamily uses.
• Discussion of project review fees for PZ#24-8SUP & PZ#24-9CAM: special use permit and coastal area management review for excavation operation at 1737 and 1761 Route 12.
• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2024 meeting.

The Planning & Zoning Commission continued two public hearings to a special meeting on August 22, 2024: the 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. (PZ#24-2RESUB) and the proposed zoning regulation amendments by Eric Treaster (PZ#24-7ZRA). Both continuations were approved unanimously (5-0, with two excused). No final decisions were made on either application.

• Continued public hearing PZ#24-2RESUB (18-lot affordable housing, Stoddards Wharf Rd.) to Aug. 22 special meeting (5-0)
• Continued public hearing PZ#24-7ZRA (zoning regulation amendments) to Aug. 22 special meeting (5-0)
• Approved agenda of Aug. 8, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 11, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Ledyard Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission is meeting to discuss a proposed 320-unit multifamily housing development at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway, Gales Ferry, and to consider an as-of-right determination for tree removal at 121 Whalehead Road. They will also review draft text amendments to the definition of regulated activity and approve minutes from the July 2 meeting.

• IWWC#24-9: 320-unit multifamily housing development at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway (C.R. Klewin LLC)
• IWWC#24-11AOR: As-of-right determination for tree/stump removal and regrading at 121 Whalehead Road
• Discussion of draft text amendments to Section 2.1 (Definitions - Regulated Activity)
• Approval of minutes from July 2, 2024 regular meeting

The Commission scheduled a public hearing for September 3, 2024, and a site walk on August 24, 2024, for the proposed 320-unit multifamily housing development at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway. It also approved an As of Right Determination for tree and stump removal at 121 Whalehead Road, and discussed but did not finalize proposed text amendments to the regulated activity definition. The July 2, 2024 meeting minutes were approved as amended to correct a vote tally misrecording.

• Set public hearing for IWWC#24-9 (320-unit housing) for Sept 3, 2024 (5-0)
• Scheduled site walk for Aug 24, 2024 at 9:00am at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway (5-0)
• Approved As of Right Determination IWWC#24-11AOR for tree/stump removal at 121 Whalehead Road (5-0)
• Approved July 2, 2024 meeting minutes as amended to correct vote tally (5-0)
• Discussed draft text amendments to Section 2.1 (Definitions - Regulated Activity); no vote taken

Economic Development Commission

The Ledyard Economic Development Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on August 6, 2024, to approve minutes and review reports. The agenda includes updates on the Corridor Study and the Business Directory. The commission will also review and update the draft FY 2023-2024 Annual Report.

• Approval of EDC Regular Meeting Minutes from July 2, 2024
• Review and update of the FY 2023-2024 EDC Annual Report
• Corridor Study Update
• Business Directory Update

The Economic Development Commission approved the July 2, 2024 meeting minutes and reviewed its FY 2023-2024 annual report, making several content decisions. Updates were provided on the Gales Ferry corridor study RFP, multiple housing projects, and business directory changes. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters.

• Approved July 2, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Kept Ledyard Economics Index chart in annual report
• Added 1772A Rt 12 as a Prime Property in annual report
• Noted 59 Kings Highway housing approved
• Noted 154 Stoddards Wharf Rd under contract for $195,000

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee is holding its regular meeting to approve minutes from July 2, 2024, review financial reports, and discuss future projects. The agenda includes public comments and old/new business items, but no major decisions or proposals are listed.

• Approval of July 2, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of financial reports and budget as of July 23, 2024
• Discussion of future projects

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee is holding a regular meeting to discuss ongoing enforcement of blight regulations and the next steps for historic designation of the Spicer Homestead Ruins. The agenda includes approval of the June 3, 2024 minutes and time for public comments. No new business items are listed beyond general discussion.

• Continued discussion on enforcing blight regulations, with a blight report for June-August 2024
• Spicer Homestead Ruins: next steps for historic designation, including historical research and photos
• Approval of minutes from June 3, 2024 meeting

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee heard complaints from two residents about a neighbor dumping yard debris over a fence. The committee discussed possible solutions, including reviewing the existing blight ordinance and researching state statutes, but took no formal action. The committee approved the minutes from the June 3, 2024 meeting.

• Approved minutes of June 3, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Discussed resident complaints about neighbor dumping yard debris; no action taken
• Agreed to research neighboring towns' ordinances on dumping on others' property
• Agreed to have Blight Officer engage with resident about dumping
• Agreed to review Ordinance #300-012 for possible amendment
• Agreed to review state statutes on dumping and blight

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting, including public comment periods and reports. The board will vote on the July 2024 financial report and approve the July 1, 2024 meeting minutes. Under old business, they will discuss renovation updates, review and update the lease and rules, and consider a draft Live-In Caregiver Policy.

• Motion to accept Payments of Bills and Financial Report for July 2024
• Motion to approve July 1, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion on renovation updates
• Small work groups to review and update Housing Authority Lease, Rules, Regulations and Policies
• Discussion and possible action on Live-In Caregiver Policy

The Ledyard Housing Authority approved the July 2024 payments and financial report (4-0, with one abstention) and approved the July 1, 2024 meeting minutes with noted corrections. No other substantive decisions were made; items on lease/policy review and a live-in caregiver policy were continued without action.

• Approved July 2024 payments and financial report (4-0, Waterhouse abstained)
• Approved July 1, 2024 meeting minutes with corrections (5-0)

Administration Committee

The Ledyard Administration Committee will hold a special meeting and work session to consider recommending the reappointment of David Nelson to the Board of Assessment Appeals, set a public hearing date for proposed ordinances on Gold Star family tax relief and amendments to the Youth & Social Services Board, and discuss amendments to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee ordinance.

• Motion to recommend reappointing David Nelson (R) to the Board of Assessment Appeals for a 4-year term ending August 26, 2028
• Motion to set a hybrid public hearing on September 11, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. for proposed Gold Star family tax relief ordinance and Youth & Social Services Board amendments
• Work session discussion on amending Ordinance #100-015 (Permanent Municipal Building Committee)
• Approval of June 12, 2024 committee minutes

The Administration Committee voted 0-2 to reject the reappointment of David Nelson to the Board of Assessment Appeals due to poor attendance. The committee also recommended setting a public hearing date for two proposed ordinances, including tax relief for Gold Star families. A work session on amendments to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee ordinance resulted in no formal action, with discussion only.

• Rejected reappointment of David Nelson to Board of Assessment Appeals (0-2)
• Recommended setting public hearing for proposed ordinances, including Gold Star family tax relief (2-0)
• Discussed amendments to Ordinance #100-015 for Permanent Municipal Building Committee; no vote taken

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council is holding a special executive session to review collective bargaining records for two town employee unions: the Nurses Union Local 1303-182 (covering July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2027) and the General Teamsters Union Local 493 (covering July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027). Following the closed session, the council will vote on motions to approve funding to implement the proposals for both unions. No other business is on the agenda.

• Executive session to review collective bargaining records for Nurses Union Local 1303-182 (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2027)
• Executive session to review collective bargaining records for General Teamsters Union Local 493 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027)
• Motion to approve funds for Nurses Union Local 1303-182 proposal
• Motion to approve funds for General Teamsters Union Local 493 proposal

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council will discuss and potentially act on the renewal of the Pfizer Solid Waste Land Disposal Facility stewardship permit at 215 Stoddards Wharf Road. The body will also approve financial adjustments to American Rescue Plan Act projects, including a $29,535 bid waiver for wastewater facility repairs and a $22,710 bid waiver for emergency building security upgrades. Additionally, the council will vote to opt-in to the Small Town Economic Assistance Program and reappoint a member to the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission.

• Discussion and possible action on Pfizer Stewardship Permit Application Renewal (Permit No. DEEP/SWF/CS-072-021) at 215 Stoddards Wharf Road
• Motion to grant a $29,535 bid waiver to Oak Hill Controls for rebuilding the Rotary Drum Thickener Panel at the Highland Wastewater Treatment Facility
• Motion to grant a $22,710 bid waiver to MSS Electronics, Inc. for upgrading the electronic lock system at the Emergency Services Building on Fairway Drive
• Motion to adopt a resolution authorizing the Town of Ledyard to opt-in to the Small Town Economic Assistance Program
• Motion to reappoint Ms. Loretta Kent to the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission for a term ending June 28, 2027

The Ledyard Town Council approved several financial and administrative items, including a $29,535 bid waiver to rebuild the Rotary Drum Thickener Panel at the Highland Wastewater Treatment Facility, funded by reallocating ARPA funds (removing $20,000 for EV charging stations and reducing Youth Mental Health Clinician allocation by $9,535). They also approved a $22,710 bid waiver for an electronic lock system upgrade at the Emergency Services Building, reappointed Loretta Kent to the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission, and adopted a resolution to opt-in to the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). The meeting included extensive public comments on proposed developments (Sweet Hill Farm apartment complex and Cashman quarry) but no action was taken on those matters.

• Approved $29,535 bid waiver to Oak Hill Controls for Rotary Drum Thickener Panel rebuild (6-0)
• Approved ARPA project list adjustments: added RDT rebuild, removed EV charging stations, reduced Youth Mental Health Clinician by $9,535 (6-0)
• Approved $22,710 bid waiver to MSS Electronics for electronic lock system upgrade (6-0)
• Reappointed Loretta Kent to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission (6-0)
• Adopted resolution to opt-in to Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) (6-0)
• Approved minutes of June 12, 2024 with typographical corrections (6-0)

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Ledyard Water Pollution Control Authority will hold its regular meeting to review water and sewer operations, discuss old business including water usage reports and a lead service line survey, and consider new business such as a water supply request from Sweet Hill Acres. The board will also vote on three invoices totaling $3,120.87 for materials and services.

• Review of water usage reports for commercial and residential customers (2021-2024)
• Discussion of Trail/Sewer line Phase II design
• Lead survey review and grant submittal for lead service line replacement
• Sweet Hill Acres intent to supply water at 29 Military Highway
• Payment approvals: Groton Utilities invoices ($125.93, $194.94) and Ti-Sales invoice ($2,800.00)

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved three payments to Groton Utilities and Ti-Sales, and amended the June 25, 2024 minutes to note a tabled item. They discussed an 86,000-gallon water leak on a resident's property, offering a payment plan, and noted the sewer project will exceed budget due to backfill costs. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or routine approvals.

• Approved amended June 25, 2024 minutes (6-0)
• Approved $125.93 payment to Groton Utilities for materials (6-0)
• Approved $194.94 payment to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (6-0)
• Approved $2,800.00 payment to Ti-Sales for Neptune R900 RF Endpoint Wall Mount V4 (6-0)
• Discussed 86,000-gallon water leak at 19 Tom Allyn Court; payment plan offered
• Discussed sewer project over budget due to $200,000 backfill purchase
• Completed lead inspection at 17 Inchcliffe Drive; samples met standards
• Signed 'ability to serve' for Sweet Hill Acres

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee will consider several motions, including bid waivers for wastewater and emergency services equipment, adoption of a Gold Star family tax relief ordinance, and opting into the Small Town Economic Assistance Program. They will also discuss ARPA funding, opioid settlement funds, and nip bottle revenue uses.

• Bid waiver to Oak Hill Controls for $29,535 to rebuild Rotary Drum Thickener Panel at Highland Wastewater Treatment Facility, funded by ARPA
• Bid waiver to MSS Electronics for $22,710 to upgrade electronic lock system at Emergency Services Building on Fairway Drive
• Adopt ordinance providing tax relief for Gold Star families (draft dated May 14, 2024)
• Adopt resolution to opt-in to Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP)
• Transfer of $39,502 (ASTE) and $304,635 (Impact Aid) to Board of Education accounts

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee will consider approving multiple payments for ongoing roof and solar projects at Ledyard schools and the BOE central office, including a $879,237.46 payment to Gold Seal Roofing for the Juliet Long School roof replacement and photovoltaic project. The committee will also discuss updates on these projects and the Juliet Long School HVAC project, and consider a possible amendment to the ordinance establishing the committee.

• Approve $879,237.46 payment to Gold Seal Roofing LLC for Juliet Long School roof and PV project
• Approve $442,215.00 payment to Imperial Company for Gales Ferry School roof project
• Approve $31,749.00 builder's risk premium invoice for school roof projects
• Approve $5,000.00 CIRMA builder's risk policy invoice
• Discuss possible amendment to Ordinance #100-015 establishing the committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved several payments for ongoing roof and solar projects, including a $879,237.46 payment to Gold Seal Roofing LLC for the Juliet Long School roof replacement and photovoltaic project. The committee also approved payments to Silver Petrucelli & Associates and The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor, Inc., and tabled one invoice pending further review. Updates were provided on roof projects, including a potential issue with the auditorium roof at Juliet Long School, and the HVAC project at Juliet Long School is continuing.

• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #24-765 for $1,260.00 (Project 22.331 Ledyard - Gales Ferry Roof and PV) (4-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #24-766 for $945.00 (Project 22-331 Ledyard-Juliet Long Roof & PV) (4-0)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #24-767 for $249.00 (Project 22-331 Ledyard - BOE Roof)
• Approved The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor, Inc. Payment Application for $3,796.26 (Ledyard BOE Offices Project 24-137) (4-0)
• Approved The Imperial Company Restoration Contractor, Inc. Payment Application for $442,215.00 (Project 24-135 Gales Ferry School) (4-0)
• Approved Application & Certification for Payment for $879,237.46 to Gold Seal Roofing LLC (Juliet Long School Roof Replacement and Photovoltaic Project) (4-0)
• Withdrew motion to approve The Imperial Company Inv #245962 for $4,082.00 (Ledyard BOE Offices roof project)
• Withdrew motion to approve The Imperial Company Inv #245956 for $19,291.00 (Gales Ferry School & Photovoltaic Project)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission will hold its regular meeting, including public comments, a report from the director, and approval of June minutes. The main new business items are discussions on allowing a Boy Scout to build a stage on the Ledyard Town Green and allowing Ledyard Football to build a floating deck at Judge Crandall. The commission will also receive an informational update on an ARPA grant.

• Discussion to allow Boy Scout to build a stage on Ledyard Town Green
• Discussion to allow Ledyard Football to build a floating deck at Judge Crandall
• ARPA grant informational item from Board of Aldermen
• Approval of June meeting minutes

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission approved a request from Ledyard Football to build a 10x10 rolling deck at Judge Crandall for their snack bar fryers and grills, with the group supplying materials and labor. The commission also approved transferring an unused donated air fryer to Ledyard Football. Discussions on a Boy Scout stage at Ledyard Town Green were continued without a vote. The meeting included member comments about senior center engagement and staff interaction, but no formal action was taken on those topics.

• Approved Ledyard Football floating deck at Judge Crandall (6-0)
• Approved transfer of donated air fryer to Ledyard Football (6-0)
• Continued discussion on Boy Scout stage at Ledyard Town Green
• Approved Director's Report (6-0)
• Approved June minutes (6-0)

Agricultural Commission

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission is holding its regular July 2024 meeting in a hybrid format. The agenda consists of standard procedural items: call to order, roll call, public comments, member comments, informational items, approval of the June 18, 2024 minutes, correspondence, and old/new business. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes from June 18, 2024
• Citizens comments period
• Comments of commission members
• Informational items
• Old and new business items

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission is holding its regular July 2024 meeting. The agenda includes approval of June minutes, a Town Council liaison report, a Beautification Committee presentation, and financial reports. Committee updates cover the Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, Research/Preservation, Center School, and Social Media. No major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of June 17, 2024 meeting minutes
• Beautification Committee presentation
• Financial reports: Sawmill donation, ARPA, Capital account, General fund, NLH donation
• Committee reports: Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, Research/Preservation, Center School, Social Media

The Ledyard Historic District Commission approved the June 17, 2024 meeting minutes and voted to cancel its August 19, 2024 meeting. The commission discussed ARPA-funded project ideas, lead concerns at the Nathan Lester House, and a dam permit application, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved June 17, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Cancelled August 19, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission voted to continue the public hearing for the Avery Brook Homes 18-lot affordable housing subdivision to August 8, 2024, accepting a 7-day extension. The commission also set public hearings for a zoning regulation amendment and a special use permit application. No final decisions were made on any applications.

• Continued PZ#24-2RESUB public hearing to Aug. 8, 2024 with 7-day extension (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for PZ#24-7ZRA zoning regulation amendments for Aug. 8, 2024
• Set public hearing for PZ#24-8SUP and PZ#24-9CAM for Sept. 12, 2024 at Ledyard Middle School
• Approved June 13, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 3 excused)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission voted 4-0 to take no action regarding jurisdiction over PZ#24-2RESUB, an 18-lot affordable housing subdivision at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. The decision followed legal arguments that the property has no wetlands and the commission lacks jurisdiction. The commission also tabled a new application for a 320-unit multifamily development at 19, 29 & 39 Military Highway to its August 6 meeting.

• Approved motion to take no action on jurisdiction over PZ#24-2RESUB (4-0)
• Failed motion to decline jurisdiction over PZ#24-2RESUB (2-2)
• Failed motion to take no action on jurisdiction (no second)
• Tabled IWWC#24-9 for 320-unit multifamily development to 8/6/24 meeting
• Approved minutes of June 4, 2024 meeting (4-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission met and received updates on the sewer line extension project, including progress on Phase 1 and design work for Phase 3. The commission also discussed the FY 2023-2024 annual report, with feedback from the mayor and suggestions to remove the Business Directional Signs page as a future project. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was approval of the April 2, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved April 2, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Received and filed Mayor's report on sewer project
• Received and filed Planner's report on development applications
• Continued discussion on corridor study update
• Continued discussion on business directory update
• Continued discussion on FY 2023-2024 annual report

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee approved a motion to proceed with planning a Veterans Day project featuring yard signs with local veterans' photos and names, and to obtain quotes for the signs. The committee also discussed upcoming events including a rock painting event at the Bill Library on September 14 and a breakfast fundraiser on July 6. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to proceed with Veterans Day event planning and obtain quotes for signs (6-0)
• Approved minutes from June 4, 2024, as written (6-0)

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority approved the June 2024 financial report and payments, elected a slate of officers for the coming term, and approved minutes from May and June meetings. No substantive policy decisions were made; the Live-In Caregiver Policy discussion was continued for further research.

• Approved Payments of Bills and Financial Report for June 2024 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes of May 6, 2024 meeting (4-1)
• Approved minutes of June 3, 2024 meeting (5-0)
• Elected officers: Chairman Charles Duzy, Vice-Chairman Thomas Cassabria, Treasurer Margaret Boyd, Secretary Paula Crocker, Tenant Commissioner Dayna Waterhouse (5-0)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The commission denied a motion to waive the permit fee for Challenger Sports to hold a soccer camp through Ledyard Youth Soccer. They also discussed issues with middle school field maintenance and Town Green garbage, but took no formal action on those items. The director's report was approved, and the May minutes were approved as amended.

• Denied fee waiver for Challenger Sports soccer camp (9-0)
• Approved Director's Report (7-0)
• Approved May 21, 2024 minutes as amended (9-0)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved a $12,475.39 consulting invoice from Fiducient Advisors and tabled a vote on a monthly retirement benefit for Karen Goetchius until August 20, 2024, after a discussion about the timing of the vote. The board also approved the April 16, 2024 meeting minutes and received updates on the pension portfolio and a planned union brainstorming session.

• Approved April 16, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 2 excused)
• Approved $12,475.39 invoice to Fiducient Advisors (4-0, 2 excused)
• Tabled monthly retirement benefit for Karen Goetchius ($3,207.60) until August 20, 2024 (4-0, 2 excused)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:27 a.m. (4-0, 2 excused)

Agricultural Commission

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission held a regular meeting on June 18, 2024, and approved the minutes from March 19, 2024, as written. Members discussed several informational items, including a development approval for Sweet Hill Farm, the return of Liz Burdick as Town Planner, and the possibility of deed restrictions on farm properties. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved Regular/Joint Meeting Minutes from March 19, 2024, as written (5-0, 2 excused)

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission approved the FY2025 Special Fund Budget and two Investment Fund Budgets (Gales Ferry Library and Either Library), all by 6-0 votes. They also approved canceling the August 19, 2024 meeting. The commission approved the May 20, 2024 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved FY2025 Library Commission Special Fund Budget (6-0)
• Approved FY2025 Investment Fund Budget - Gales Ferry Library (6-0)
• Approved FY2025 Investment Fund Budget - Either Library (6-0)
• Approved canceling August 19, 2024 meeting (6-0)
• Approved May 20, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission approved the May 20, 2024 public hearing and regular meeting minutes, with an editorial correction to the latter. The commission discussed ARPA fund deadlines, the Sawmill project, and the Nathan Lester House restoration, but took no substantive votes on these items.

• Approved May 20, 2024 public hearing minutes (5-0)
• Approved May 20, 2024 regular meeting minutes with typo correction (5-0)
• Appointed Kenneth Geer as voting member
• Adjourned meeting at 8:25 p.m. (5-0)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee recommended approval of a new ordinance providing property tax relief for Gold Star families and amendments to the Youth & Social Services Board ordinance, both forwarded for further review. The committee also approved a joint work session with the Board of Education to discuss amendments to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee ordinance and reappointed a member to the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission. Discussion on creating an Ethics Commission was continued.

• Approved motion to schedule joint work session with Board of Education on Ordinance #100-015 amendments (2-0-1, Dombrowski abstained)
• Approved reappointment of Loretta Kent to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission (3-0)
• Recommended approval of new Gold Star Families tax relief ordinance (3-0)
• Recommended approval of amendments to Youth & Social Services Board ordinance (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 8, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Continued discussion on creating an Ethics Commission
• Continued discussion on amending Ordinance #100-015 (Permanent Municipal Building Committee)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council approved a Fiscal Year 2024/2025 real estate and personal property mil rate of 35.21 and a motor vehicle mil rate of 32.46. The council also approved several financial items, including a $5,000 purchase of a used SCBA cascade filling station for the fire department, a $129,698 transfer to the Board of Education's Agri-Science account, and a transfer of $68,748.54 in uncollectable tax accounts to the suspense file. The council discussed but did not vote on flying the Pride Flag, referring the matter to the Administration Committee for further work on a potential ordinance.

• Set FY2024/2025 mil rate at 35.21 real estate/personal property and 32.46 motor vehicle (9-0)
• Approved $5,000 purchase of used SCBA cascade filling station from Town of Preston (9-0)
• Appropriated and transferred $129,698 to Board of Education Agri-Science account (9-0)
• Transferred $68,748.54 in uncollectable tax accounts to suspense file (9-0)
• Approved FY2025 Standing Bid Waiver List (9-0)
• Approved minutes of May 22, 2024 meetings (9-0 and 8-0-1)
• Continued Pride Flag discussion, referred to Administration Committee
• Cancelled June 26, 2024 Town Council meeting by consensus

Cemetery Committee

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee appointed William Vidal III as Chairperson/Treasurer and Kristie Gardiner-Lundgren as Vice Chairperson/Secretary, both by 5-0 votes with two members absent. The committee also approved the April 9, 2024 minutes with corrections, and discussed maintenance issues including a $2,000 quote for tree work at Lee Cemetery.

• Appointed William Vidal III as Chairperson/Treasurer (5-0, 2 absent)
• Appointed Kristie Gardiner-Lundgren as Vice Chairperson/Secretary (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved April 9, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments to correct member designations
• Appointed alternates Vincent Godino and Paul Krug as voting members for this meeting

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission held a routine meeting with no substantive decisions beyond approving the May 14, 2024 minutes. Members received informational updates on trail events, property surveys, and grants, but no new business or public comments were presented.

• Approved May 14, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0)

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee held a regular meeting on June 6, 2024, and approved a motion to open new purchase orders for the upcoming 2024 Summer Market. The committee also reviewed the Summer 2024 Market Kick Off from June 5, 2024, and discussed areas for improvement. The minutes from the May 15, 2024 special meeting were approved. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to open new purchase orders for 2024 Summer Market
• Approved minutes of May 15, 2024 special meeting

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion voted 2-0-1 (Paul abstained) to host a Pride Pizza Party on June 29, 2024, after discussion about procedural concerns. The committee also voted 3-0 to include raising the Pride Flag on the June 12, 2024 Town Council agenda. No town funds will be used for the event; costs are covered by committee members.

• Approved hosting Pride Pizza Party on June 29, 2024 (2-0-1, Paul abstained)
• Approved motion to include Pride Flag discussion on June 12, 2024 Town Council agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes of April 17, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Continued discussion on Farmers' Market booths, park conversations, and Narcan outreach

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend setting the FY2024/2025 real estate and personal property mil rate at 35.21 and the motor vehicle mil rate at 32.46, following the voter-approved budget. The committee also approved several other items, including the purchase of a used SCBA Cascade filling station for $5,000, a $129,698 transfer for Agri-Science capital funds, and the transfer of $68,748.54 in uncollectable tax accounts to the suspense file. All votes were unanimous.

• Recommended FY2025 mil rates: 35.21 real estate/personal property, 32.46 motor vehicle (3-0)
• Approved purchase of used SCBA Cascade filling station from Preston for $5,000 (3-0)
• Approved transfer of $129,698 to Agri-Science capital account (3-0)
• Approved transfer of $68,748.54 in uncollectable taxes to suspense file and $197.41 in overpayments to general fund (3-0)
• Approved standing bid waivers list for FY2025 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 15, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Rescheduled June 19 meeting to June 18 (later cancelled)

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved multiple invoices for roof, solar, and HVAC projects, including payments to Silver Petrucelli & Associates, LocaliQ, and Friar Architecture. The committee also discussed proposed changes to the ordinance that establishes the PMBC, with members raising concerns about owner's representative requirements and voting membership. No final action was taken on the ordinance discussion.

• Approved May 6, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0-2)
• Approved $1,666.00 invoice for Juliet Long Roof & PV (5-0-2)
• Approved $1,666.00 invoice for Gales Ferry Roof & PV (5-0-2)
• Approved $1,148.00 invoice for BOE Roof (5-0-2)
• Approved $1,486.53 advertising invoice for roof projects (5-0-2)
• Approved $1,600.00 asbestos/lead paint testing authorization for Juliet Long HVAC (5-0-2)
• Approved $9,240.00 Friar Architecture invoice for Juliet Long HVAC (5-0-2)
• Approved $55,440.00 Friar Architecture invoice for Juliet Long HVAC (5-0-2)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission holds a special meeting to discuss and decide on PZ#24-2RESUB, an 18-lot resubdivision for affordable housing at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. The agenda also includes old business regarding a 10-unit mobile home park application at 59 Kings Highway. The meeting is held in a hybrid format with remote access via Zoom.

• Discussion & Decision: PZ#24-2RESUB for 18-lot affordable housing development at 96, 98, and 100 Stoddards Wharf Rd.
• Public Hearing: PZ#24-2RESUB for Avery Brook Homes, LLC (18-lot resubdivision)
• Old Business: PZ#24-1SITE for 10-unit mobile home park/affordable housing at 59 Kings Highway
• Old Business: Review of staff memos and applicant responses for 59 Kings Highway

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission held a special meeting on May 30, 2024, and took no final decisions on the two affordable housing applications on the agenda. The commission tabled PZ#24-1SITE, a 10-unit mobile home park at 59 Kings Highway, to the June 13 regular meeting because materials were not posted in time. It also continued the public hearing for PZ#24-2RESUB, an 18-lot resubdivision at 96-100 Stoddards Wharf Road, to June 13, with a unanimous 5-0 vote. The commission noted the withdrawal of two other applications (PZ#24-3SUB and PZ#24-4CAM) for 1736 and 1761 Rt. 12, to be formally recorded at the next meeting.

• Tabled PZ#24-1SITE (10-unit mobile home park at 59 Kings Highway) to June 13, 2024
• Continued public hearing for PZ#24-2RESUB (18-lot resubdivision at 96-100 Stoddards Wharf Rd.) to June 13, 2024 (5-0)
• Noted withdrawal of PZ#24-3SUB and PZ#24-4CAM (1736 & 1761 Rt. 12) for formal record at June 13 meeting

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved several payments, including $16,605 to Weston & Sampson for Phase III sewer work (4-1), and tabled a $9,850 invoice from the same firm pending clarification. Residents asked about sewer connections for Ledyard Center development; the chairman outlined project phases. The authority also discussed water rate data and lead survey grant submission.

• Approved $1,066.75 payment to The Day for public hearing notice (5-0)
• Approved $7,860.95 payment to Groton Utilities for emergency and cost-of-services (5-0)
• Approved $1,771.56 payment to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (5-0)
• Approved $16,605.00 payment to Weston & Sampson for Phase III sewer upgrade (4-1)
• Tabled $9,850.00 payment to Weston & Sampson pending explanation (5-0)
• Approved $6,215.00 payment to Groton Utilities for meters (5-0)
• Approved April 23, 2024 public hearing and regular meeting minutes (5-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council is holding a special meeting on May 22, 2024, solely to enter into executive session. The agenda lists no public business, rezonings, or budget items, only the motion to discuss pending litigation regarding a personnel matter.

• Motion to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding a personnel matter

The Town Council held a special meeting and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding a personnel matter. No substantive decisions were made during the public portion of the meeting.

• Approved motion to enter executive session for pending personnel litigation (8-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn after executive session (8-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council held a special meeting and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss ongoing legal matters pertaining to Indian issues regarding land annexation and taxation. The session included all councilors present, the mayor, an attorney, and the administrative assistant. No substantive decisions were made; the only action was the approval to enter executive session and later adjourn.

• Approved motion to enter executive session on Indian land annexation and taxation (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:02 p.m. (7-0)

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council approved a 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024, as recommended by the WPCA. The council also approved several appointments to town boards and commissions, including the Library Commission, Planning & Zoning Commission, and Cemetery Committee. Two tax refunds totaling $7,321.19 were approved. The meeting included public comments on the firing of Town Planner Juliet Hodge, the Cashman Quarry application, and a request for a Gold Star spouse property tax exemption, which was referred to the Administration Committee.

• Approved 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024 (8-0)
• Appointed Peter Diette to Library Commission (8-0)
• Appointed Beth Ribe to Planning & Zoning Commission as alternate (8-0)
• Appointed Lauren Hawes to Ledyard Beautification Committee (8-0)
• Appointed Martha Reynolds and Vincent Godino to Cemetery Committee (8-0)
• Appointed Kristie Gardiner-Lundgren to Cemetery Committee (8-0)
• Appointed Lauren Hawes to Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission as alternate (8-0)
• Approved two tax refunds totaling $7,321.19 (8-0)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission denied a Boy Scout proposal to build garden beds at the Senior Center, approved an electrical sign at the Ledyard Town Green, and approved waiving summer camp fees for staff members. All votes were 5-0 with three members excused.

• Denied Boy Scout garden bed proposal at Senior Center (5-0)
• Approved electrical sign at Ledyard Town Green (5-0)
• Approved waiving summer camp fees for staff members (5-0)
• Approved April 16th meeting minutes (5-0)

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee conducted a site walk of the Spicer Homestead Ruins located within the Clark Farm property at 1025 Colonel Ledyard Highway. Participants discussed historical facts about the site and information about the Tri-Town Trail (Bluff Point to Preston Plains Park). No formal decisions were made; the walk concluded at 6:30 p.m.

• Held site walk of Spicer Homestead Ruins at Clark Farm (no vote recorded)

Town Meeting

The Annual Town Meeting was held to consider the proposed FY2024-25 budget of $67,430,573. After presentations and public comment, the meeting adjourned to a referendum on May 21, 2024, where voters approved the budget 253 to 169. The budget includes $29,060,750 for general government and $38,369,823 for the Board of Education.

• Approved FY2024-25 budget of $67,430,573 via referendum (253-169)
• Elected S. Naomi Rodriguez as Moderator (unanimous)
• Adjourned Town Meeting to referendum on May 21, 2024

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for new exterior doors on the front of the Nathan Lester House barn. The commission also approved the April 15, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments. Most other items were discussions, including Sawmill penstock lining, Nathan Lester House restoration progress, and research on historic building status.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for Nathan Lester House barn door (5-0)
• Approved April 15, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:18 p.m. (5-0)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission held a public hearing on a Certificate of Appropriateness application to add functional doors to the barn at the Nathan Lester House, 153 Vinegar Hill Road. No public comments were received. The commission will vote on the application at the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. the same evening.

• Public hearing held for Certificate of Appropriateness for barn door addition at Nathan Lester House
• No public comments received
• Vote deferred to regular Historic District Commission meeting at 7:00 p.m.

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission met on May 20, 2024, and approved the April 15, 2024 meeting minutes (4 ayes, 2 abstentions). The commission heard reports from staff and working groups, including updates on state grants, summer reading programs, and the consortium working group's progress. No new business or old business was discussed, and the meeting adjourned at 7:51 p.m.

• Approved April 15, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
• Heard presentation from Assistant Librarian Alyssa Drake on adult services and programming
• Noted Town Council letter recognizing Carol Ganz for 17 years of service
• Received Treasurer's Report for April with fundraising receipts over $1,000
• Received Director's Report including state grants ($828 borrowIT, $1,442 Public Incentive)
• Consortium Working Group to continue analysis and bring recommendation later

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee is meeting to finalize preparations for the upcoming summer season. The committee will discuss market manager reports, financial reports, and the marking of the Pavilion. Members will also consider vendor selection and new purchase orders.

• Final preparations for the June 5, 2024, market kick-off
• Motion to open new purchase orders for the 2024 Summer Market
• Motion to select vendors for the 2024 Summer Market
• Discussion regarding the marking of the Pavilion
• Review of Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Year to Date and Purchase Orders reports

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee met on May 15, 2024, and approved several financial actions for the upcoming 2024 summer market, including opening new purchase orders, increasing an existing purchase order for a magazine advertisement, and approving entertainment invoices. The committee also discussed final preparations for the June 5 kick-off, including access to the Lower Town Green and vendor selection.

• Approved minutes of April 3, 2024 special meeting (3-0)
• Approved opening new purchase orders for 2024 Summer Market (4-0)
• Increased Purchase Order #2024-0327 from $500 to $1,000 for Best of Connecticut Magazine ad (4-0)
• Approved entertainment invoices totaling $825 for June 2024 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:48 p.m. (3-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of a 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024, as proposed by the WPCA. The committee also approved two tax refunds totaling $7,321.19. Discussions were held on ARPA funding, opioid settlement uses, and a food scrap composting pilot program, but no final decisions were made on those items.

• Recommended 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024 (3-0)
• Approved tax refunds totaling $7,321.19 (3-0)
• Approved April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission approved a $1,750 payment to Margarett Jones for the White-Hall Park and Forest Ecological Survey and report, which is complete and will support future grant applications. The commission also approved purchases of two trail signs for Glacier Park (up to $200) and a pop-up tent (up to $120). Minutes from April 9, 2024, were approved with a correction. All votes were unanimous (7-0, with one excused).

• Approved $1,750 payment to Margarett Jones for White-Hall ecological survey (7-0)
• Approved purchase of two trail signs for Glacier Park, up to $200 (7-0)
• Approved purchase of pop-up tent, up to $120 (7-0)
• Approved April 9, 2024 meeting minutes with correction (7-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission postponed the public hearing for the 18-lot affordable housing resubdivision at 96-100 Stoddards Wharf Rd. to a special meeting on May 30, 2024. The Commission accepted a Verified Notice of Intervention from the City of Groton Dept. of Utilities, adding it as a party to the application. The Commission also postponed review of a mobile home park application and set a public hearing for a special use permit application, which was later withdrawn. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Postponed public hearing for PZ#24-2RESUB (18-lot affordable housing) to May 30, 2024
• Approved accepting City of Groton Dept. of Utilities as intervenor (3-0, 3 excused)
• Postponed review of PZ#24-1SITE (mobile home park) to May 30, 2024
• Set public hearing for PZ#24-3SUP & PZ#24-4CAM for June 13, 2024 (later withdrawn)
• Approved April 11, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0, 3 excused)

Town Council

The Town Council held a public hearing on May 8, 2024, to receive comment on accepting a parcel and two easements for no compensation, related to boundary line adjustments near Route 12 and Thamesview Pentway. Residents raised concerns about property ownership, survey markers, and snow removal, but no vote was taken during the hearing. The council moved to a Special Town Meeting immediately following to vote on the conveyance.

• Public hearing held on accepting .04-acre Parcel C from Noah Cardinal (no vote taken)
• Public hearing held on accepting 259.08 sq ft Easement Area D from Daniel Stanavage (no vote taken)
• Public hearing held on accepting 685.67 sq ft Easement Area E from Noah Cardinal (no vote taken)

Town Meeting

At a special town meeting on May 8, 2024, Ledyard voters approved the conveyance of a 0.04-acre parcel and two easement areas along Thamesview Pentway for no compensation. The motion carried 11-5. The town will accept ownership of Parcel C from Noah Cardinal and easements for snow removal from Daniel Stanavage and Noah Cardinal.

• Approved conveyance of 0.04-acre Parcel C from Noah Cardinal to the town (11-5)
• Approved 259.08 sq ft easement from Daniel Stanavage for snow removal (11-5)
• Approved 685.67 sq ft easement from Noah Cardinal for snow removal (11-5)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee recommended Peter Diette for appointment to the Library Commission, while Cynthia Wright's appointment failed. It also recommended appointments to the Planning & Zoning Commission, Beautification Committee, Cemetery Committee, and Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission. Discussion on amending Ordinance #100-015 for the Permanent Municipal Building Committee was continued without action.

• Recommended Peter Diette for Library Commission (2-0)
• Denied Cynthia Wright for Library Commission (0-2)
• Recommended Beth Ribe for Planning & Zoning Commission alternate (2-0)
• Recommended Lauren Hawes for Beautification Committee (2-0)
• Recommended Martha Reynolds and Vincent Godino for Cemetery Committee adjustments (2-0)
• Recommended Kristie Gardiner-Lundgren for Cemetery Committee (3-0)
• Recommended Lauren Hawes for Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission alternate (3-0)
• Continued discussion on Ordinance #100-015 amendments

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee voted not to participate in the Memorial Day parade this year and discussed several potential future projects, including a school mural update, planters at Military Highway, a painted rock snake, and a daffodil festival. The chairperson resigned, and no current members were interested in becoming chair or vice chair, so the committee will seek new members. The minutes were approved, and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved minutes from March 5, 2024 (4-0, 3 absent)
• Decided not to participate in Memorial Day parade
• Discussed potential projects: Regatta cleanup, school mural, planters, rock snake, daffodil festival
• Chairperson Eastbourne resigned; no current members interested in chair or vice chair
• Adjourned at 5:33 p.m. (4-0, 3 absent)

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority approved a maximum monthly rent of $1,006 at King's Corner Manor, adopted its bylaws as amended, and approved HUD FY2024 income limits. All officer nominations failed for lack of a second, leaving positions unfilled. The board also accepted financial reports for March and April 2024 and continued discussions on renovations, smoking policy, and a laundry room change machine.

• Approved maximum monthly rent of $1,006.00 (4-1, Waterhouse abstained)
• Adopted bylaws dated May 6, 2024, as amended (5-0)
• Adopted HUD FY2024 income limits: $63,950 single, $73,100 couple (4-1, Waterhouse abstained)
• Approved payments and financial reports for March and April 2024 (4-1, Waterhouse abstained)
• Approved minutes of March 4, 2024 meeting (5-0)
• All officer nominations failed for lack of second (Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, Tenant Representative)
• Continued renovation updates, smoking policy, and laundry room change machine discussions

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved bids from Imperial for roofing projects at the Board of Education building, Gales Ferry School, and Juliet Long School, with backup bidders designated in case Imperial cannot honor its bid due to a suspected missing scope. The committee also approved several invoices from Silver Petrucelli & Associates and STV for project-related services. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Imperial bid for BOE roof at $378,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Imperial bid for Gales Ferry roof at $2,585,500, with Silktown as backup at $3,574,190 (unanimous)
• Approved Imperial bid for Juliet Long roof at $1,880,300, with Gold Seal as backup at $2,317,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli invoice #24-330 for $238.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli invoice #24-331 for $238.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli invoice #24-332 for $164.00 (unanimous)
• Approved STV invoice #90030811 for $258.50 (unanimous)
• Approved STV invoice #90030812 for $1,400.00 (unanimous)

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority voted unanimously to recommend a 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024, to the Town Council. The board also discussed the lead service line inventory and replacement plan, reviewed the Habitat for Humanity proposal for 35-40 homes on Colby Drive, and received updates on operations and the trail/sewer project.

• Recommended 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved minutes from March 26, 2024 (5-0)
• Discussed lead service line inventory and replacement plan
• Discussed Habitat for Humanity proposal for 35-40 homes on Colby Drive
• Discussed trail/sewer line bids and engineering amendment

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority held a public hearing on a proposed 5% water rate increase, citing increased raw water costs from Groton Utilities and unfunded lead testing mandates. No vote was taken; the hearing was for public input only. Residents raised concerns about rate fairness and water waste.

• Held public hearing on proposed 5% water rate increase (no vote)
• No action taken on rate increase; hearing only

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Ledyard Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion approved the March 20, 2024 minutes (3-0) and selected new Farmers' Market booth dates (June 5, July 3, August 21) after original dates were unavailable. They continued discussions on public information forums, informal conversations in parks, and communication improvements, but took no final action on these items. The committee also discussed opioid settlement funding and potential outreach to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council, with no decisions made.

• Approved March 20, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Selected Farmers' Market booth dates: June 5, July 3, August 21, 2024
• Agreed to submit booth request forms to Farmers' Market
• Councilor Brunelle to contact Tri-Town Trail Association president
• Councilor Brunelle to contact Betsy Graham about Lantern Hill Pond event
• Councilor St. Vil to contact Parks & Recreation director about Winthrop Park

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board met on April 16, 2024, to approve minutes from March 19, 2024, and review labor contracts related to retirement eligibility. The board also approved a payment to Fiducient Advisors for consulting costs associated with the Town's Defined Benefit Pension Plan.

• Approval of invoice #609_03312024 to Fiducient Advisors for $12,475.39
• Review of labor contracts and retirement documents for employee groups
• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes from March 19, 2024

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission is holding a regular meeting to review financial reports, including the FY24 Special Fund budget and monthly treasurer updates from August 2023 to March 2024. The agenda includes an informational presentation by Assistant Librarian II Matt Novosad regarding a commission vacancy and the resignation of Ganz. The body will also approve the minutes from the March 18, 2024 meeting and receive reports from the Director, Friends of the Ledyard Library, and working groups.

• Review of Library Commission Special Fund budget FY24 FINAL
• Presentation on commission vacancy and Ganz resignation
• Approval of minutes from March 18, 2024 meeting
• Investment Working Group portfolio update
• Consortium Working Group report

The Ledyard Library Commission accepted the resignation of Commissioner Carol Ganz, effective April 1, 2024, with appreciation for her service. The commission also approved the March 18, 2024 meeting minutes with a correction to a Dime transfer amount. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and presentations.

• Accepted Carol Ganz's resignation (6-0)
• Approved March 18, 2024 meeting minutes with correction (5-0, 1 abstention)

Town Council

The Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget of $67,430,573, which includes a 4.48% increase and a projected mill rate of 35.21. Presentations were given by the Town Council Finance Committee and Board of Education Finance Committee, followed by public comments both in favor and against the budget. No formal vote was taken at this hearing; the budget is scheduled for final approval at the Annual Town Meeting on May 20, 2024, with a machine vote on May 21, 2024.

• Public hearing held on proposed FY2024/25 budget of $67,430,573 (no vote taken)
• Presentations given by Town Council Finance Committee and Board of Education Finance Committee
• Public comments received from residents both supporting and opposing the proposed budget
• Budget scheduled for final approval at Annual Town Meeting on May 20, 2024, with vote on May 21, 2024

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ledyard Planning & Zoning Commission approved the conveyance of parcels and easement areas to the town for boundary line adjustments near Route 12 and Thamesview Pentway. The commission continued the public hearing for a proposed 10-unit mobile home park at 59 Kings Highway to May 9, 2024, and scheduled a public hearing for an 18-lot affordable housing subdivision for the same date. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved conveyance of parcels and easement areas to town for boundary line adjustments (moved by Paul Whitescarver, seconded by Marcelle Wood)
• Continued PZ#24-1SITE (10-unit mobile home park at 59 Kings Highway) to May 9, 2024
• Scheduled public hearing for PZ#24-2RESUB (18-lot affordable housing subdivision at 96-100 Stoddards Wharf Rd.) for May 9, 2024
• Approved January 11, 2024 meeting minutes as submitted

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council approved several items, including grant applications for library children's collections, a bid waiver for Groton Utilities to supervise fire hydrant moves, a reallocation of ARPA funds for the Multi-Use Pathway, a COPS grant application for a new dispatch system, an audit contract, and a property conveyance. They also set a public hearing and special town meeting for May 8 on the property transfer. All votes were 6-0 with two councilors excused.

• Approved library grant applications totaling $5,500 (6-0)
• Granted bid waiver to Groton Utilities up to $25,000 for hydrant work (6-0)
• Authorized ARPA fund reallocation of $90,000 for pathway admin and hydrant work (6-0)
• Authorized COPS grant application up to $240,000 for CAD/RMS replacement (6-0)
• Appointed CliftonLarsonAllen LLP for FY2024 audit, fee not to exceed $71,900 (6-0)
• Approved 8-24 review for property conveyance at Route 12/Thamesview Pentway (6-0)
• Set May 8 public hearing and special town meeting for property transfer (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission approved sending a letter to the New England Fisheries Management Council supporting CT DEEP's recommendations on Atlantic Herring Amendment 10, and renewed its CT Land Conservation Council membership with a $150 donation. The commission also approved minutes from March 12, 2024, and nominated Betsy Graham for an environmental award. No public comments were received, and several items were discussed without formal action.

• Approved March 12, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Nominated Betsy Graham for Aquarion Environmental Champions Award (7-0)
• Approved sending letter to New England Fisheries Management Council supporting CT DEEP herring recommendations (7-0)
• Approved renewal of CT Land Conservation Council membership and $150 donation (7-0)

Cemetery Committee

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee approved a $2,000 contract with H&H Landscaping to remove a dead ash tree and limbs at Roach Cemetery. The committee also appointed Paul Krug as a voting member, approved the February 27 special meeting minutes, and set May 4, 2024, for flagging the large cemeteries. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were discussed or tabled.

• Approved $2,000 tree removal contract with H&H Landscaping (3-0)
• Approved February 27, 2024 special meeting minutes (3-0)
• Appointed Paul Krug as voting member
• Set May 4, 2024, 9:00 a.m. for flagging Avery Stoddard and Gales Ferry cemeteries
• Tabled vote for Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson until next meeting

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee approved the selection of six vendors for the 2024 Summer Market, which kicks off June 5. They also approved the minutes from March meetings and entered executive session to review vendor applications. No action was taken on opening new purchase orders or approving expenditures.

• Approved vendor selections for 2024 Summer Market (3-0)
• Approved minutes from March 6 and March 20 meetings (3-0)
• Entered executive session to review vendor applications (3-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission approved the March 5, 2024 draft minutes. The meeting was largely informational, with the Town Planner reporting on recent zoning activity, including a proposed 8-30g affordable housing development with mobile homes on Kings Highway, and updates on various projects. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved March 5, 2024 draft minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting adjournment (4-0, 1 absent)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission reviewed a cease and desist order issued for 47 Terry Road due to siltation in wetlands from a failed silt fence after a septic replacement. The order will be lifted after a re-inspection by zoning enforcement. The commission also approved the February 6, 2024 meeting minutes and discussed an upcoming re-subdivision application.

• Reviewed cease and desist order for 47 Terry Road (siltation violation)
• Cease and desist to be lifted after re-inspection
• Approved February 6, 2024 draft meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:29 PM (unanimous)

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The committee approved six invoices from Silver Petrucelli & Associates totaling $35,210 for roof and solar projects at Gales Ferry, Juliet Long, and BOE buildings. They also discussed the status of the roof and solar projects, which are ready to go out to bid after state approval, and planned for a possible special meeting on May 8 to award the contract if needed.

• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #24-237 for $2,624.00 (Gales Ferry Roof and PV) (6-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #24-238 for $2,220.00 (Juliet Long Roof & PV) (6-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #24-239 for $1,948.00 (BOE Roof) (6-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #23-1521 for $487.00 (BOE Roof) (6-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #23-1522 for $14,016.00 (Gales Ferry Roof & PV) (6-0)
• Approved Silver Petrucelli & Associates Inv #13-1523 for $13,915.00 (Juliet Long Roof & PV) (6-0)
• Approved minutes of March 4, 2024 (6-0)
• Consensus to plan for May 6 meeting, with possible cancellation and special meeting on May 8 to award roof contract

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council approved the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget of $67,430,573, a 4.48% increase over the current year, which will now go to a public hearing on April 15, 2024. The council also approved a $1,517,183.62 Water Operations Budget, set the Annual Town Meeting and referendum for May 20-21, 2024, and renamed the Community Relations Committee to include 'Diversity, Equity and Inclusion' in its title. All votes were 6-0, with three councilors excused.

• Approved $67,430,573 FY2024/25 budget (6-0)
• Approved $1,517,183.62 Water Operations Budget (6-0)
• Set Annual Town Meeting May 20 and budget referendum May 21 (6-0)
• Renamed Community Relations Committee to 'Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion' (6-0)
• Approved two tax refunds totaling $5,892.30 (6-0)
• Approved $8,185 appropriation from GovDeals vehicle sales
• Reappointed five members to Water Pollution Control Authority
• Appointed representatives to SCRRRA

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved scheduling a public hearing for April 23, 2024, to receive comments on a proposed 5% water rate increase effective July 1, 2024. The board also approved paying CorrTech $3,386 for a reservoir inspection, requested a bid waiver from the Town Council for up to $25,000 for Groton Utilities work on the Multi-Use Pathway and a fire hydrant, and approved a $82.08 payment for lead inventory. Minutes from February 27, 2024, were approved with a name correction.

• Approved public hearing for April 23, 2024, on proposed 5% water rate increase (7-0)
• Approved $3,386 payment to CorrTech for reservoir inspection (7-0)
• Approved request for bid waiver up to $25,000 for Groton Utilities pathway/hydrant work (7-0)
• Approved $82.08 payment to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (7-0)
• Approved February 27, 2024 minutes with name correction (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee held a special meeting on March 25, 2024, to consider the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget. The agenda includes a motion to adopt the proposed budget, which incorporates changes from a draft dated March 14, 2024. The package also references the Board of Education's adopted budget and capital projects request.

• Motion to adopt the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget
• Review of budget draft with proposed changes dated 3-14-2024
• Reference to Board of Education Adopted Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget
• Reference to BOE FY25 Capital Projects Request

The Finance Committee voted 2-1 to recommend the Town Council adopt a $67,430,573 Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget, comprising $29,060,750 for General Government and $38,369,823 for the Board of Education. The committee approved several capital project adjustments, including adding $8,000 for a Gales Ferry Fire Station generator and $75,000 for the Juliet W. Long School fire alarm system, while removing a $200,000 Board of Education reserve fund addition. A motion to reduce the Board of Education budget increase to 6.3% failed for lack of a second.

• Recommended $67,430,573 FY2024/25 budget (2-1, Ryan opposed)
• Approved $8,000 for Gales Ferry Fire Station generator (2-1, Ryan opposed)
• Approved $75,000 for Juliet W. Long School fire alarm replacement (3-0)
• Removed $200,000 from Board of Education reserve fund (3-0)
• Approved $45,000 for Dispatch CAD/RMS in 2025 (3-0)
• Approved $80,000 for High School Science Lab upgrades in 2025 (3-0)
• Approved $70,000 for Juliet W. Long Playscape replacement (3-0)
• Failed motion to reduce Board of Education budget to $38,170,595 (no second)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee tabled the proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget after discussing adjustments, including adding funds for school capital projects and restoring Board of Education funding. They approved several smaller items, including vehicle sale appropriations, tax refunds, budget adjustments, and the Water Operations Budget. A special meeting was scheduled for March 25, 2024, to continue budget discussions.

• Approved $8,185 appropriation from GovDeals vehicle sales to Pooled Vehicles CNR account (3-0)
• Approved two tax refunds totaling $5,892.30 (3-0)
• Approved FY2024/25 budget adjustments for Registrars, Elections, Library (3-0)
• Tabled FY2024/25 budget recommendation (3-0)
• Set April 15, 2024 public hearing for FY2024/25 budget (3-0)
• Set May 20, 2024 Annual Town Meeting and May 21, 2024 referendum (3-0)
• Approved FY2024/25 Water Operations Budget of $1,517,183.62 (3-0)

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The Community Relations Committee voted 2-0 to recommend that the Town Council approve an addendum renaming the committee to the 'Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.' The committee also approved the January 17, 2024 minutes and discussed plans for 2024 Farmers' Market outreach events, though only the August 21 date was confirmed available. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved motion to recommend Town Council addendum renaming committee to 'Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion' (2-0)
• Approved minutes of January 17, 2024 meeting (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:02 p.m. (2-0)

Agricultural Commission

The Ledyard Agricultural Commission held a joint work session with land-use boards and commissions to discuss ADUs, farm listings, and future collaboration. No formal decisions were made during the discussion. The commission approved the February 20, 2023 minutes and voted to cancel the April 16, 2024 regular meeting.

• Approved February 20, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0, 2 excused)
• Cancelled April 16, 2024 regular meeting (5-0, 2 excused)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission will review a proposal for a Boy Scout Skate Park project and approve updated Rules and Procedures. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from previous special meetings in January and February 2024. Additionally, the commission will consider a request from the Rotary Club.

• Review of Boy Scout Skate Park Project Proposal
• Motion to approve Rules and Procedures
• Approval of January 17, 2024 Special Meeting Minutes
• Approval of February 20, 2024 Special Meeting and Administration Committee Minutes
• Consideration of Rotary Request

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission approved its revised Rules and Procedures, which outline officer roles, meeting conduct, and sub-committee structures. The commission also accepted the Director's Report and approved minutes from prior meetings. A resident raised concerns about proposed pickleball court expansion, and the director noted the plan is with the Town Council.

• Approved revised Rules and Procedures (6-0)
• Accepted Director's Report (6-0)
• Approved January 17, 2024 special meeting minutes as amended (6-0)
• Approved February 20, 2024 special meeting minutes (6-0)
• Continued Boy Scout Skate Park Project Proposal
• Continued other old business
• Continued new business items

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Administration Committee of the Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission met and discussed two versions of the Rules of Procedure, both containing the same information. Members agreed to follow Robert's Rules with flexibility and to limit speaking times. The committee voted 4-0 to recommend forwarding the formal Rules and Procedures to the full commission for approval.

• Approved forwarding formal Rules and Procedures to full commission (4-0)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board is meeting to approve monthly retirement benefits for two former employees and pay associated calculation invoices. The board will also review labor contracts and plan amendments related to retirement eligibility. Standard procedural items, including the approval of previous minutes, are also on the agenda.

• Motion to approve a $1,305.38 monthly retirement benefit for Jean Dutton effective April 1, 2024
• Motion to approve a $2,516.49 monthly retirement benefit for Scott Petersen effective February 1, 2024
• Motion to approve payment of $800.00 to USI for benefit calculations for Jean Dutton and Sharon Dutra
• Motion to approve payment of $400.00 to USI for benefit calculations for Scott Petersen
• Discussion on the review of applicable labor contracts and retirement documents for Town of Ledyard employee groups

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved monthly retirement benefits for Jean Dutton ($1,305.38, 50% Joint & Survivor annuity, effective April 1, 2024) and Scott Petersen ($2,516.49, modified cash refund annuity, effective February 1, 2024), both by 5-0 votes. The board also approved two USI invoices totaling $1,200 for benefit calculations. Discussions were held on updating the retirement plan document and on the police union's potential interest in CMERS 2.0, but no decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved monthly retirement benefit for Jean Dutton of $1,305.38 (5-0)
• Approved monthly retirement benefit for Scott Petersen of $2,516.49 (5-0)
• Approved USI invoice #90092523 for $800.00 (5-0)
• Approved USI invoice #90093033 for $400.00 (5-0)
• Approved minutes from Jan 23, 2024 special meeting (4-0-1 abstention)
• Approved minutes from Feb 20, 2024 regular meeting (3-0-2 abstentions)

Library Commission

The Library Commission approved a motion to create a working group to evaluate library consortium options, comprising Commissioners Cronin and Ganz, resident Jan Dawson, and Director Smith as ex-officio. The Commission also approved changes to the Community Meeting Room policy, allowing two additional sessions per year for groups at Gales Ferry and adding an exception for Friends of the Library fundraising events. Minutes from January 22, 2024 were approved.

• Approved creation of consortium evaluation working group (7-0)
• Approved Community Meeting Room policy changes allowing two additional sessions per year (7-0)
• Approved exception for Friends fundraising events to book rooms more than 90 days in advance (7-0)
• Approved January 22, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission is meeting to approve its February 26, 2024 minutes and adopt amended Rules of Procedure. The body will also vote to appoint a Secretary and review financial reports for the Sawmill, ARPA, Capital, General Fund, and NLH donation accounts as of March 6, 2024. Committee reports will cover the Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, Research/Preservation, Center School, and Social Media.

• Motion to ADOPT the Ledyard Historic District Commission - Rules of Procedure (amended 3-10-24 rev1)
• Vote to appoint a Secretary
• Motion to APPROVE Regular Meeting Minutes from February 26, 2024
• Review of Financial Reports: Sawmill, ARPA, Capital, General Fund, and NLH donation accounts (YTD 3-6-24)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee approved two recommendations for full Town Council approval. It recommended switching Ledyard's SCRRRA representatives so Public Works Director Steve Masalin becomes Regular Member and Joseph Lozier becomes Alternate Member, with terms ending 2027 and 2025 respectively. It also recommended reappointing five members to the Water Pollution Control Authority for three-year terms ending April 11, 2027. Both motions passed 3-0.

• Recommended SCRRRA appointments: Steve Masalin as Regular Member (term to 2027), Joseph Lozier as Alternate Member (term to 2025) (3-0)
• Recommended WPCA reappointments: Monir Tewfik, Sharon Wadecki, Edmond Lynch, J.A. Capon, James Ball for terms ending April 11, 2027 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of January 10, 2024 (3-0)

Town Council

The Town Council voted 8-0 to adopt an ordinance establishing a Farmers Market Committee, replacing the previous resolution. The council also approved appointments to the committee, authorized bid waivers for two construction projects, and updated the ARPA projects list. All votes were 8-0 with one councilor excused.

• Adopted Ordinance #100-020 establishing a Farmers Market Committee (8-0)
• Appointed 6 members to the Farmers Market Committee (8-0)
• Authorized bid waiver for W.R. Allen & Co. for Food Pantry siding, $28,250 (8-0)
• Authorized bid waiver for Guaranteed Roofing for Senior Center re-shingling, $38,477 (8-0)
• Updated ARPA projects list: added $300,000 for Sandy Hollow Road guardrails and transferred $35,000 to Route 12 Corridor Study (8-0)
• Approved Mayor's appointment of Attorney Robert Avena for Land Use matters (8-0)
• Approved six tax refunds totaling $22,426.00
• Approved two additional tax refunds totaling $5,874.55 (8-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the February 13, 2024 meeting minutes as written. Members discussed a proposed riparian buffer ordinance, agreed to contribute to the Connecticut Land Conservation Council (amount to be voted in April), and discussed several ongoing projects including pollinator pathways, White-Hall field clearing, and a boat inspection pilot program. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved February 13, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 2 excused)
• Agreed to contribute to Connecticut Land Conservation Council (amount to be voted in April)
• Discussed riparian buffer ordinance proposal for inland wetland waterways
• Discussed placing 'private property' signs along Glacier Park trail per resident request
• Discussed boat inspection pilot program funding referral to Mayor and Finance Director

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee held a budget work session for FY2024/25, reviewing proposed budgets from fire, police, dispatch, and water/sewer departments. No formal votes were taken; the session was informational, with discussions on capital requests and project updates. The committee noted the need to address dispatch overtime and ARPA fund deadlines.

• Reviewed Fire Marshal proposed budget of $101,116 (2.9% increase)
• Reviewed Emergency Management proposed budget of $20,450 (no change)
• Reviewed Administrator of Emergency Services proposed budget of $487,883 (3.9% increase)
• Reviewed Gales Ferry Fire proposed budget of $219,094 (1.9% increase)
• Reviewed Ledyard Center Fire proposed budget of $128,000 (increase of $1,870)
• Reviewed Police Department proposed budget of $3,007,655 (9.3% increase)
• Reviewed Dispatch proposed budget of $669,249 (5.4% increase)
• Reviewed WPCA water and sewer operations budgets

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee held a budget work session to review Mayor Allyn's proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget of $67,082,148, a 3.94% increase over the current year, which would require a 34.94 mil rate. The budget includes a $29,028,075 General Government budget and a $38,054,073 Board of Education budget. No formal votes were taken; the session was for review and discussion of departmental proposals.

• Reviewed Mayor's proposed FY2024/25 budget of $67,082,148 (3.94% increase)
• Noted proposed mil rate of 34.94, a 0.38 mil increase
• Discussed General Government budget of $29,028,075 (1.38% increase)
• Discussed Board of Education budget of $38,054,073 (5.98% increase)
• Reviewed elimination of Youth Services Department from budget
• Reviewed Capital Improvement Plan totaling $7,871,864
• Discussed $1,000,000 transfer from Mill Rate Stabilization Fund
• No formal votes taken; session was informational

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee is meeting to plan for the upcoming 2024 Summer Market. The agenda includes electing a Market Manager, reviewing vendor applications, and discussing entertainment and pavilion marking. The committee will also review financial reports and the status of a proposed farmers market ordinance.

• Motion to elect Market Manager
• Motion to open new Purchase Orders for the 2024 Summer Market
• Motion to revise the 2024 Meeting Schedule
• Motion to enter executive session to review vendor applications and contracts
• Motion to select returning vendors for the 2024 Summer Market

The committee approved all returning vendors for the 2024 Summer Market, elected Pam Ball as Market Manager, and appropriated $2,000 for kids activities. It also closed and opened purchase orders, revised the 2024 meeting schedule, and selected Bill Thorne as Treasurer. The committee will hold a special meeting on March 20 to review new vendor applications and food trucks.

• Approved motion to elect Pam Ball as Farmers' Market Manager (5-0)
• Approved closing purchase orders #20240326, #20240334, #20240330 (5-0)
• Approved opening new purchase orders for 2024 Summer Market (5-0)
• Appropriated $2,000 for kids activities, including $1,000 PO for Allison Troy (5-0)
• Approved revised 2024 meeting schedule to first Wednesday of each month (5-0)
• Approved entering executive session to review vendor applications (5-0)
• Approved selecting all returning vendors for 2024 Summer Market (5-0)
• Approved selecting Bill Thorne as Treasurer (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Ledyard Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the Town Council update the ARPA projects list, adding a $300,000 Sandy Hollow Road guardrail replacement project and transferring $35,000 from the Gales Ferry Sidewalk Project to the Gales Ferry Corridor Study. The committee also approved bid waivers for the Food Pantry Siding Improvements ($28,250 to W.R. Allen & Co.) and Senior Center Re-shingling ($38,477 to Guaranteed Roofing), both due to lack of three bids. Additionally, they approved eight tax refunds totaling $28,300.55. The meeting included discussions on ARPA project status, possible capital expenditures, and nip bottle revenue uses, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved motion to recommend ARPA list update: add $300,000 Sandy Hollow Guardrail Replacement and transfer $35,000 to Gales Ferry Corridor Study (3-0)
• Approved bid waiver for Food Pantry Siding Improvements to W.R. Allen & Co. for $28,250 (3-0)
• Approved bid waiver for Senior Center Re-shingling to Guaranteed Roofing for $38,477 (3-0)
• Approved six tax refunds totaling $22,426.00 (3-0)
• Approved two additional tax refunds totaling $5,874.55 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of February 21, 2024 meeting (3-0)

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee discussed and planned its Earth Day clean-up event scheduled for April 21, 2024, on the Town Green. Members proposed trash-collecting and trash-to-treasure contests, demonstrations, and vendor participation, and assigned action items to contact SCRRRA, Willimantic Waste/Casella, Arc, Scotts, and the Police Department. The committee also discussed the nip bottle tax surcharge, with Councilor Ryan volunteering to compile cost estimates for solar-powered trash bins. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only votes were to approve the February 6, 2024 minutes and to adjourn.

• Approved February 6, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 excused, 1 absent)
• Discussed Earth Day clean-up event plans; no formal vote
• Assigned action items for event outreach (SCRRRA, Willimantic Waste/Casella, Arc, Scotts, Police)
• Discussed nip bottle tax surcharge; Councilor Ryan to compile cost spreadsheet
• Discussed potential joint meeting with other boards; no decision
• Adjourned at 5:41 p.m. (5-0, 1 excused, 1 absent)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission approved the February 6, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. The Mayor reported that K-Trail, a trailer manufacturer, plans to open a call center and training facility at 5 Lorenz Pkwy, and that a .38 mil tax increase will be presented to the Town Council. No other formal decisions were made; the rest of the meeting was discussion and updates.

• Approved February 6, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:41 PM (5-0)

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority meets to approve financial reports and minutes from February 2024. The board will discuss and potentially act on a $25 monthly rent increase for grandfathered tenants, effective August 2024. Additionally, the board will count votes on the location of future monthly meetings and discuss a smoke-free housing policy.

• Motion to accept Payments of Bills and Financial Report for March and April 2024
• Motion to approve meeting minutes from February 5, 2024
• Discussion and possible action on a Smoke-Free Housing Policy Lease Addendum
• Vote on monthly meeting location: Kings Corner Manor, Zoom, or Town Hall Annex
• Discussion and possible action to raise grandfathered rents from $212/$222 to $237/$247 starting August 1, 2024

The Ledyard Housing Authority approved a $25 per month rent increase for 19 grandfathered units, effective August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025, raising rents from $212/$222 to $237/$247. The board also approved amended Rules of Procedure and voted to keep monthly meetings at Kings Corner Manor with audio recording using Town equipment when available. The financial report for March and April 2024 was approved, and the board noted the housing complex is at full capacity.

• Approved $25/month rent increase for 19 grandfathered units, effective Aug 1, 2024–Jul 31, 2025 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved amended Rules of Procedure (5-0)
• Approved payments of bills and financial report for March and April 2024 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes of February 5, 2024 meeting
• Tenant vote: keep meetings at Kings Corner Manor with audio recording via Town equipment when available

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved a contract with Friar for architectural services for the Juliet Long School HVAC system, not to exceed $224,620, with a 3-0-1 vote (Tyminski abstained). All six invoices from Silver Petrucelli & Associates for roof and solar projects were tabled. The committee also discussed delays in the roof and solar projects due to incomplete plans from SPA, and agreed to proceed with a state meeting on Wednesday.

• Approved Friar architectural services contract for Juliet Long HVAC, not to exceed $224,620 (3-0-1, Tyminski abstained)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #24-237 for $2,624.00 (Gales Ferry Roof and PV)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #24-238 for $2,220.00 (Juliet Long Roof & PV)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #24-239 for $1,948.00 (BOE Roof)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #23-1521 for $487.00 (BOE Roof)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #23-1522 for $14,016.00 (Gales Ferry Roof & PV)
• Tabled Silver Petrucelli & Associates invoice #13-1523 for $13,915.00 (Juliet Long Roof & PV)
• Approved minutes of February 6, 2024, and February 20, 2024, as amended

Town Council

The Town Council received and filed the Board of Education's proposed Fiscal Year 2024/2025 budget of $38,369,823, a 6.85% increase over the current year. The council also adopted an ordinance establishing a farmers market for the town. Several appointments to town boards and commissions were approved, along with a bid waiver and fund transfers for capital projects.

• Received and filed $38.37M FY2024/25 Board of Education budget proposal (7-0)
• Adopted ordinance establishing a Farmers Market for the Town of Ledyard (7-0)
• Approved bid waiver for Nathan Lester House exterior rehab to Quiet Corner Restoration LLC for $83,025.17 (7-0)
• Authorized transfer of $55,575.17 in ARPA funds from Sawmill to Nathan Lester House projects (7-0)
• Transferred $217,387 BOE FY2022/23 audited surplus to BOE Reserve Fund (7-0)
• Approved reappointments to Permanent Municipal Building Committee, Retirement Board, and Housing Authority (7-0)
• Approved appointments to Historic District Commission for Godino, Lamb, Chittim, and Parkinson (7-0)
• Approved minutes of February 14, 2024 meeting (7-0)

Cemetery Committee

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee held a special meeting on February 27, 2024, to approve minutes from October 10, 2023, and review fiscal reports. The agenda included discussions on flagging, adopters, and veterans, as well as continued review of right-of-way, metal medallions, and cemetery book connections. The committee also addressed the fulfillment of chairperson and flagging positions.

• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes from October 10, 2023
• Review of Fiscal Reports
• Continued discussion on Right of Way (ROW)
• Continued discussion on Metal Medallions
• Committee Position Fulfillment for Chairperson and Flagging

The Ledyard Cemetery Committee held a special meeting with three voting members present. They approved the October 10, 2024 regular meeting minutes as written. The committee discussed the chairperson vacancy following Sheila Godino's resignation, with William Vidal expressing interest, and scheduled a vote for the next meeting on April 9, 2024. No other formal decisions were made; most items were discussions or updates.

• Approved October 10, 2024 regular meeting minutes (3-0)
• Appointed Paul Krug as voting member
• Scheduled chairperson vote for April 9, 2024 meeting

Water Pollution Control Authority

The Water Pollution Control Authority approved a $1,517,183.62 water budget for FY 2024/2025, including a 5% water rate increase, and a $671,749.34 sewer budget. The water budget addresses a deficit partly due to one-time write-offs and depreciation. The authority also discussed lead pipe surveys, a sewer line project, and agreed to sell unused pumps.

• Approved FY 2024/2025 water budget of $1,517,183.62 with 5% rate increase (5-0)
• Approved FY 2024/2025 sewer budget of $671,749.34 (5-0)
• Approved payment of $82.08 to Groton Utilities for lead inventory (5-0)
• Approved minutes from January 23, 2024 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Agreed to sell unused pumps at existing pump station
• Agreed to install meter on Dow Chemical hydrant line (quote $24,000)

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission approved the January 23, 2024 meeting minutes as written and appointed Kelly Lamb as a voting member. The commission discussed financial reports, including a bid waiver for the Nathan Lester House siding project and an ARPA fund transfer, both slated for the Town Council's February 28 agenda. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval and alternate appointment; all other items were discussed only.

• Approved January 23, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 excused)
• Appointed Kelly Lamb as voting member

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of a bid waiver for Quiet Corner Restoration LLC ($83,025.17) for the Nathan Lester House exterior rehabilitation, and to transfer $55,575.17 in ARPA funds from the Up-Down Sawmill project to cover the work. The committee also recommended transferring the Board of Education's $217,387 audited surplus to its capital reserve fund and creating a standalone BOE capital fund. Discussions on opioid settlement funds, nip bottle revenue uses, and ARPA project reallocations were continued without final action.

• Approved bid waiver for Quiet Corner Restoration LLC, $83,025.17 (3-0)
• Approved transfer of $55,575.17 ARPA funds from Sawmill to Nathan Lester House (3-0)
• Approved transfer of $217,387 BOE surplus to capital reserve fund (3-0)
• Approved creation of standalone BOE non-bonded capital fund (3-0)
• Approved minutes of February 7, 2024 (3-0)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission held a special meeting to discuss updating its Rules of Procedure. No final decision was made; members agreed to review draft versions of the rules at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned with a 4-0 vote.

• Discussed changing Rules of Procedure for Commission Powers and Purpose
• Agreed to have Commissioner Crocker prepare draft rules in two versions for next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission approved a motion to increase the 2024 Summer Camp pay scale, with 8 in favor and 1 absent. Other items discussed included a street light request, a Boy Scout skate park proposal (continued), and the January minutes (referred to March for corrections). No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved 2024 Summer Camp Pay Scale Increase (8-0, 1 absent)
• Referred January 17, 2024 minutes to March meeting for corrections
• Continued Boy Scout Skate Park Project proposal
• Continued Rules of Procedure discussion

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The Permanent Municipal Building Committee approved the construction drawings, project manuals, and cost estimates for roof and solar panel projects at Juliet Long School, Gales Ferry School, and the Board of Education building, all dated February 2, 2024. The committee also approved nine invoices from Silver Petrucelli & Associates for design services related to these projects. All motions passed unanimously with 6 ayes and 1 absence.

• Approved BOE roof project drawings, manual & estimate (6-0, 1 absent)
• Approved Juliet Long School roof & PV drawings, manual & estimate (6-0, 1 absent)
• Approved Gales Ferry School roof & PV drawings, manual & estimate (6-0, 1 absent)
• Approved SPA invoice #23-1311 for $440.00 (Gales Ferry)
• Approved SPA invoice #23-1480 for $880.00 (Gales Ferry)
• Approved SPA invoice #24-093 for $6,360.00 (Gales Ferry)
• Approved SPA invoice #23-1312 for $394.00 (Juliet Long)
• Approved SPA invoice #23-1481 for $788.00 (Juliet Long)

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved liquidating the Metropolitan West fixed income allocation and reallocating the funds equally to Baird and Harbor bond funds, as recommended by Fiducient Advisors. The board also approved increasing the fixed income allocation by 5% over the next year. Two retirement benefits were approved, and the approval of January minutes failed due to abstentions.

• Approved liquidation of Metropolitan West fixed income and reallocation to Baird and Harbor (4-0, 2 excused)
• Approved increase of fixed income allocation by 5% over next year (4-0, 2 excused)
• Approved monthly retirement benefit for Sharon Dutra of $690.12 effective Feb 1, 2024 (4-0, 2 excused)
• Approved monthly retirement benefit for Jean Dutton of $1568.97 effective Apr 1, 2024 (4-0, 2 excused)
• Motion to approve January 23, 2024 minutes failed due to two abstentions and two absences

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee will vote to recommend the Town Council adopt an ordinance establishing a farmers market. It will also set a public hearing for March 13, 2024, to gather comments on that proposal. Additionally, the committee will approve several board appointments and reappointments.

• Motion to recommend adoption of 'An Ordinance Establishing a Farmers Market for the Town of Ledyard'
• Motion to set a public hearing on March 13, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. regarding the farmers market ordinance
• Motion to appoint five regular members and one alternate to the Farmers Market Committee
• Motion to reappoint George Hosey to the Permanent Municipal Building Committee for a three-year term
• Motion to reappoint William Thorne to the Retirement Board and Thomas Cassabria to the Housing Authority

The Administration Committee voted to adopt a proposed ordinance establishing a farmers market for the Town of Ledyard, and set a public hearing for March 13, 2024. It also made several appointments and reappointments to town boards and commissions. The minutes are a working draft and do not include vote tallies.

• Adopted proposed Farmers Market ordinance (draft dated Jan 17, 2024)
• Set public hearing on Farmers Market ordinance for March 13, 2024 at 6:30 p.m.
• Appointed 5 regular and 1 alternate member to Farmers Market Committee
• Reappointed George Hosey to Permanent Municipal Building Committee (3-year term)
• Reappointed William Thorne to Retirement Board (3-year term)
• Reappointed Thomas Cassabria to Housing Authority (5-year term)
• Appointed 4 members to Historic District Commission (alternate and regular)
• Approved minutes of January 10, 2024 meeting

Town Council

The Ledyard Town Council voted 0-8 to reject the proposed three-year contract with the Ledyard Administrators' Association, effectively disapproving the agreement. The council also approved revisions to the building permit fee schedule, increasing the fee from $10.00 to $15.00 per $1,000 of construction value. Both actions were taken at the February 14, 2024 regular meeting.

• Rejected Ledyard Administrators' Association contract (0-8)
• Approved building permit fee increase to $15.00 per $1,000 (8-0)
• Approved minutes of January 24, 2024 (8-0)

Conservation Commission

The Ledyard Conservation Commission held a remote-only meeting on February 13, 2024, due to inclement weather. The agenda included standard procedural items such as approving minutes from January 9, 2024, and reviewing financial reports. The commission discussed ongoing work at the White-Hall Property, including field clearing and new signage, as well as the Pollinator Pathways Project. No specific dollar amounts or new ordinances were listed in the provided text.

• Review of financial reports for White Hall GL account, Conservation general, and Trail Maintenance as of 1-30-24
• Discussion of field clearing at White-Hall Property
• Discussion of new signage at White-Hall Property
• Continuation of the Pollinator Pathways Project
• Review of areas of interest and goals for 2024

The Ledyard Conservation Commission met remotely on February 13, 2024, and approved the January 9, 2024 meeting minutes as written. No public comments or correspondence were received. The commission discussed several informational and old business items, including property walks, the Pollinator Pathways Project, and a potential $5,000 budget request for an invasive species monitoring program at Lantern Hill boat launch. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved January 9, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 excused)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission approved the December 2023 minutes and re-elected its officers for 2024. Members discussed the draft RFQ for the Route 12 Corridor Study, noting it may exceed the $15,000 budget, and reviewed the proposed 2024-2025 budget of $8,460. No major decisions were made on these items.

• Approved December 5, 2023 meeting minutes (motion by Tashea, second by Hary)
• Approved agenda without objection
• Re-elected officers for 2024 (motion by Tashea, second by Hary)
• Adjourned at 6:49 PM (motion by Tashea, second by Hary)

Permanent Municipal Building Committee

The committee rejected a proposal from Silver Petrucelli & Associates (SPA) for the Juliet Long School HVAC project due to a bid process violation, and tabled acceptance of roof/solar drawings for three schools pending more detailed plans. All SPA invoices were tabled until design plans are approved, while STV invoices were approved. Interviews with HVAC architect bidders were held, and the committee will seek clarification from Friar on design costs.

• Rejected SPA proposal for Juliet Long HVAC project (unanimous)
• Tabled acceptance of BOE roof/solar drawings dated Feb 2, 2024
• Tabled acceptance of Juliet Long roof/solar drawings dated Feb 2, 2024
• Tabled acceptance of Gales Ferry roof/solar drawings dated Feb 2, 2024
• Tabled 9 SPA invoices totaling $19,090 for roof/PV projects
• Approved STV invoice #90029958 for $5,479.00 (5-0)
• Approved STV invoice #90029959 for $6,275.50 (5-0)
• Approved STV invoice #90029960 for $5,134.00 (5-0)

Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission

The Inland Wetland and Water Courses Commission approved a timber harvest notification at 101 Sandy Hollow Rd as an 'As of Right' determination under section 4.2. The December 5, 2023 meeting minutes were also approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved IWWC#24-2AOR timber harvest at 101 Sandy Hollow Rd as 'As of Right'
• Approved December 5, 2023 meeting minutes

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The Ledyard Beautification Committee met on February 6, 2024, and approved the January 2, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously (6-0, with one excused). The committee discussed upcoming projects, including the February planter assembly and delivery, and the Earth Day event on April 21. No formal votes were taken on these projects; they were discussed and planned. The committee also discussed a possible ad hoc committee for a nip bottle tax surcharge and heard from the Historic District Commission about potential collaboration.

• Approved January 2, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 excused)
• Agreed to have 5-6 National Honor Society students help with February planter project
• Reserved Town Green for Earth Day on April 21, 2-4 p.m.
• Discussed forming ad hoc committee for nip bottle tax surcharge (no vote)
• Discussed pancake breakfast fundraiser on July 6, 2024 (no vote)
• Approved Carol Schneider as Treasurer (6-0, 1 excused)
• Discussed collaboration with Historic District Commission (no vote)

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee voted 2-1 to recommend approval of revised building permit fees, increasing the rate from $10 to $15 per $1,000 of construction value, as proposed in the January 23, 2024 draft. The motion was moved by Councilor Dombrowski (who voted against) and seconded by Councilor Buhle. The recommendation will now go to the Finance Committee for review. The committee also agreed to receive blight reports monthly instead of quarterly.

• Recommended approval of revised permit fee schedule raising fee to $15 per $1,000 (2-1, Dombrowski opposed)
• Agreed to receive blight reports on a monthly basis
• Approved minutes of January 8, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Continued discussion on blight enforcement and Spicer Homestead Ruins historic designation

Housing Authority

The Ledyard Housing Authority approved the payments of bills and financial reports for December 2023 and January 2024, with one abstention. The board took no action on the smoking policy, deferring further discussion until the town completes sidewalk work. A vote on the monthly meeting location was opened for tenants, with results to be counted at the March 4 meeting. The board also continued renovation updates and discussed new meeting protocols.

• Approved payments of bills and financial reports for Dec 2023 and Jan 2024 (4-0-1)
• Approved minutes of Nov 20, 2023 and Dec 28, 2023 special meetings (5-0)
• Took no action on smoking policy, pending town sidewalk work
• Continued discussion on monthly meeting location; tenant vote opened, closes 2/20/2024
• Continued renovation updates; BRD to address open items
• Continued discussion on new meeting protocols

Ledyard Farmers Market Committee

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee is holding a special meeting to review financial reports and approve previous minutes. The agenda includes discussions on potential actions to set 2024 market fees, weekly themes, and entertainment. It also covers updates on the proposed ordinance establishing the market and changes to vendor and food truck applications.

• Possible action to set 2024 Market Fees
• Discussion of proposed changes to market vendor and food truck applications
• Update on the proposed 'An Ordinance Establishing a Farmers Market for the Town of Ledyard'
• Approval of Farmers Market Minutes from January 4, 2024
• Review of Fiscal Year 2023/2024 financial and purchase order reports

The Ledyard Farmers Market Committee held a special meeting on February 1, 2024, and approved several actions for the 2024 market season. They approved a $1,000 purchase order for website and market expenses, a $3,500 appropriation for entertainment, and kept market fees unchanged. The committee also recommended a new membership structure to the Administration Committee and discussed support from Parks & Recreation.

• Approved $1,000 purchase order for website and market expenses (5-0)
• Approved $3,500 for 2024 Farmers Market entertainment (5-0)
• Kept 2024 market fees unchanged: $200 full-time, $125 part-time, $25 one-time
• Approved minutes of January 4, 2024 (5-0)
• Recommended regular and alternate members for proposed ordinance
• Agreed to forward membership recommendation to Administration Committee

Retirement Board

The Ledyard Retirement Board approved a proposed $850,000 pension contribution for the current fiscal year, exceeding USI's recommendation of $689,218 but below last year's $950,000. The board tabled a monthly retirement benefit for Sharon Dutra pending clarification on which labor contract was used in calculations. They also approved a $12,475.39 consulting invoice from Fiducient Advisors and discussed reviewing retirement plan documents to reference union contracts rather than duplicate them.

• Approved proposed $850,000 FY24-25 pension contribution (4-0, 2 excused)
• Tabled monthly retirement benefit for Sharon Dutra ($690.12) until February 20, 2024
• Approved $12,475.39 invoice to Fiducient Advisors for Q4 2023 consulting (4-0, 2 excused)
• Approved December 19, 2023 meeting minutes as written (4-0, 2 excused)

Historic District Commission

The Ledyard Historic District Commission will hold a hybrid meeting to approve December minutes and review year-to-date financial reports for the general fund, capital account, and specific donation accounts. The primary decision on the agenda is the election of new officers, including the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary. Committee reports will be presented regarding the Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, and Center School projects.

• Election of Officers: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary
• Approval of Regular Meeting minutes from December 18, 2023
• Review of Fiscal Reports: ARPA, Capital, General Fund, NLH, and Sawmill accounts
• Committee Reports: Sawmill, Nathan Lester House, Research/Preservation, and Center School

The Ledyard Historic District Commission elected Earl Lamb as chairman, with Vincent Godino stepping down to remain as an alternate. The commission also approved the December 18, 2023 meeting minutes and discussed various projects, including the Nathan Lester House film rental and maintenance plans. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved December 18, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Elected Earl Lamb as chairman (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Elected William Barnes as vice-chairman (5-0)
• Tabled secretary election until new members are seated

Public Safety Commission

The commission unanimously elected Steve Holyfield as chair and Jon Mann as vice chair. It also approved the 2024 meeting schedule and the minutes from the September 11, 2023 meeting. The police radio update noted that the CLMRN project is progressing, with all cruisers now equipped with 800 MHz radios and two of five channels programmed.

• Elected Steve Holyfield as chair and Jon Mann as vice chair (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 9/11/2023 meeting (5-0, 2 absent)

Library Commission

The Ledyard Library Commission approved the FY25 budget as revised to include $21,262 for new photocopiers in the operating budget. They also approved the December 2023 meeting minutes and a revised holiday closing schedule adding a floating holiday on June 19, 2024. The commission discussed a potential consortium change, comparing costs and benefits of LION, Bibliomation, and LCI, but took no action.

• Approved FY25 budget as revised to add $21,262 for copiers (8-0)
• Approved December 11, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved revised holiday closing schedule including June 19, 2024 floating holiday (9-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee held a joint work session with the Town Council and Board of Education to discuss preparation of the FY2024/25 budget, including recommendations from the Committee to Review the Budget Process. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the session was informational, covering budget schedules, anticipated increases, and potential savings. The meeting adjourned with a 6-0 vote.

• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Community Relations Committee For Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The committee discussed and continued planning for the 2024 Black History Month Activity/Contest, including essay and poster contests with cash prizes, and discussed outreach events like a Mental Health Awareness event and a possible 'Senior Day'. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only votes were to approve prior meeting minutes and to adjourn.

• Approved Organizational and Regular Meeting Minutes of December 20, 2023 (3-0)
• Continued discussion on 2024 Black History Month Activity/Contest (no vote)
• Continued discussion on Public Information Forums schedule (no vote)
• Continued discussion on 'Informal Conversations in the Park' (no vote)
• Discussed ideas to increase communication/transparency with residents (no vote)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission approved the department's Fiscal Year 2025 operating budget and capital budget, both by a 6-0 vote. The operating budget includes a $29,000 increase and plans to hire a gym monitor. The capital budget includes funding for pickleball courts behind the Gales Ferry Community Center, park automation, and other improvements. The commission also approved the 2024 meeting schedule and the October 17, 2023 minutes.

• Approved FY2025 operating budget (6-0)
• Approved FY2025 capital budget (6-0)
• Approved 2024 meeting schedule (6-0)
• Approved October 17, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved Director's Report (6-0)
• Seated alternate Carol Schneider for Lucrezia Finegan (6-0)

Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission

The Ledyard Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Commission meets to approve its 2024 meeting schedule and the Fiscal Year 2025 operating and capital budgets. The agenda includes discussions on a Boy Scout skate park proposal, subdivision recreation spaces, and pickleball infrastructure needs. The body will also review the commission's rules of procedure and powers.

• Motion to approve the Parks, Recreation & Senior Citizens Department Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
• Motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget, including quotes for pickleball courts, door replacement, and basketball court repairs
• Discussion of the Boy Scout Skate Park Project Proposal (Eagle Project)
• Discussion regarding recreation space within subdivisions
• Review of Rules of Procedure for Ledyard Parks, Recreation and Senior Citizens Commission Powers and Purpose

Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee

The Land Use, Planning, and Public Works Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss the progress of enforcing blight regulations. The committee will also review historical research and photos regarding the Spicer Homestead Ruins.

• Discussion on enforcing regulations to address blight issues
• Review of Spicer Homestead Ruins historical research and photos
• Approval of December 11, 2023, meeting minutes

The Land Use/Planning/Public Works Committee reviewed a blight enforcement report and took no action, but continued monitoring. It also discussed the Spicer Homestead Ruins historic designation, with the Historic District Commission authorized to develop a roadmap and a donation account. The committee approved prior meeting minutes and adjourned.

• Approved Organizational Meeting Minutes of December 11, 2023 (2-0)
• Approved Special Meeting Minutes of December 11, 2023 (2-0)
• Continued monitoring of blight enforcement; no action taken
• Continued discussion on Spicer Homestead Ruins; no formal action

Ledyard Beautification Committee

The committee approved the December 5, 2023 minutes and discussed several projects. They decided to hold the Valentine's Day bouquet assembly at Hourglass Insurance on February 10, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., with deliveries to seniors the next day. No formal votes were taken on other items; the meeting was primarily discussion and planning.

• Approved December 5, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Set Valentine's bouquet assembly for Feb 10, 2024 at Hourglass Insurance
• Decided to use teacups for women and coffee mugs for men in bouquets
• Adjourned meeting at 5:48 p.m. (5-0)