West Hartford public meetings in 2022

General

The West Hartford Housing Authority Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting. The board will consider Resolution 2022-8 regarding the approval and issuance of Project Based Vouchers.

• Resolution 2022-8: Approval of award and issuance of Project Based Vouchers

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will review the minutes from November 16, 2022, and receive a memo regarding the New Park Avenue Complete Streets Bike Facility Evaluation. Staff will also provide a community development update.

• Approval of November 16, 2022, minutes
• New Park Avenue Complete Streets Bike Facility Evaluation Memo
• Community Development Update

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding an ordinance for specific indoor venues in the CBDH District. The proposal would allow these venues to stay open until 1:00 AM under a Café Liquor Permit with age restrictions.

• Ordinance for modified hours in the CBDH District
• Proposal for venues to operate until 1:00 AM
• Use of Café Liquor Permits with age restrictions

The Town Council held a public hearing to discuss a proposed ordinance allowing indoor recreation facilities in the CBDH district to operate until 1 a.m. and use cafe liquor permits. No formal vote was taken during this hearing; the proceedings were adjourned after public testimony and staff presentations.

• Held public hearing on proposed amendments to Sections 177-2, 177-37.1-C, and 177-36F

Town Council

The Town Council will revisit a rezoning application for a mixed-use redevelopment project involving multiple properties. The council will also discuss an ordinance regarding 1:00 AM closing hours and liquor permits for certain indoor venues in the CBDH District.

• Rezoning of 27-43 & 53-65 LaSalle Road, 8 & 12 Arapahoe Road, and 1001 Farmington Avenue to BC with Special Development District Designation
• Ordinance for certain indoor venues in the CBDH District to stay open until 1:00 AM under a Café Liquor Permit

The Town Council approved a zoning change and Special Development District for a mixed-use project at Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue. The approval includes requirements for affordable housing, public space, and traffic calming payments. The Council also amended an ordinance regarding indoor venue operating hours.

• Approved mixed-use redevelopment application for The Arapahoe Group, LLC (8-1)
• Required $150,000 payment from developer for off-site traffic calming on Arapahoe Road and Woodrow Street
• Mandated four residential rental units be leased as affordable at 80% area median income for 40 years
• Approved amendment restricting extended operating hours for certain CBDH District indoor venues (9-0)
• Set public hearing for amended indoor venue ordinance for January 10, 2023 (9-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will review November minutes and hear reports on social services and senior transportation. Town Assessor Joseph Dakers, Sr. is scheduled to present on available tax abatement programs. The agenda also includes discussions regarding a senior job bank and housing subcommittees.

• Presentation on Tax Abatement Programs by Town Assessor Joseph Dakers, Sr.
• West Hartford Social Services Report
• Discussion regarding Seniors Job Bank
• Discussion regarding Transportation for Seniors
• Approval of the 2023 Meeting Schedule

The Commission voted to shorten member terms and approved the 2023 meeting calendar. Members discussed senior center budget constraints, tax assessment programs, and priorities for the new Community Center.

• Approved November 2022 meeting minutes
• Voted to change member commitment from 5 years to 3 years
• Approved 2023 calendar of meetings

Commission on the Arts

The commission will discuss several ongoing initiatives, including public art policies and wayfinding signage plans. The meeting also includes updates on the Elmwood Amtrak Bridge Mural and the redevelopment of St. Brigid School.

• Elmwood Amtrak Bridge Mural
• Redevelopment of St. Brigid School/Community Center
• West Hartford Wayfinding Signage Plan
• Playhouse on Park Ownership and Expansion Plan
• Town Hall Public Art Criteria & Display Policy

Clean Energy Commission

The commission will review the status of a recycling pilot and an ordinance for a Sustainable West Hartford Commission. Members will also plan priorities for 2023 and discuss the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan.

• Recap of recycling pilot status
• Status of Sustainable West Hartford Commission ordinance
• Planning 2023 priorities
• West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan discussion

Conservation and Environment Commission

This meeting consists of procedural items. The commission will host a public comment period and consider the approval of the October 26, 2022, minutes.

• Approval of October 26, 2022 Minutes

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review a site plan application to redevelop the West Hartford Inn into multifamily housing. They will also hold a study session regarding potential mixed-use development at 1700 and 1800 Asylum Avenue. The agenda includes approving the 2023 meeting calendar and recent minutes.

• Site plan application #1397 for West Hartford Inn redevelopment
• Study session for a potential Special Development District at 1700 and 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Approval of the 2023 regular meeting calendar
• DRAC membership changes and appointments

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a variance request for an addition at 110 Kingswood Road. The board will also vote on the 2023 meeting calendar, bylaws, and elect officers for 2023.

• Variance request for 110 Kingswood Road to allow a home addition
• Vote on the 2023 ZBA regular meeting calendar
• Discussion and vote on ZBA Bylaws
• Election of ZBA Officers for 2023

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding an application by The Arapahoe Group, LLC. The proposal seeks a zone change and Special Development District designation for properties on LaSalle Road, Arapahoe Road, and Farmington Avenue.

• Zone change from RP, RO & RM-O to BC with Special Development District (SDD) designation
• Proposed mixed-use redevelopment at 27-43 & 53-65 LaSalle Road, 8 & 12 Arapahoe Road, and 1001 Farmington Avenue

The Town Council held a public hearing regarding a request by the Arapahoe Group, LLC to rezone property for a mixed-use development including 58 condominiums and 25 rental units. No vote was taken; the decision was postponed to December 21 to validate a protest petition and determine if a supermajority vote is required. The public hearing was closed at 12:17 a.m.

• Tabled vote on Arapahoe Group rezoning application until December 21
• Approved waiver of application fee
• Closed public hearing on the application

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will review school reports and updates from various subcommittees. Members will discuss the 2022-2023 budget, including prizes for an environmental video contest. The meeting also addresses roles within West Hartford Immigrant Teens.

• 2022-2023 budget discussion regarding contest prizes and project kits
• Human Rights Declaration event on January 12
• Subcommittee reports including the Butterfly Project and Kindness Project
• Clarification of roles between MYC and West Hartford Immigrant Teens

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is holding a public hearing regarding an ordinance for the CBDH District. The proposal would permit certain indoor venues to operate until 1:00 AM under a Café Liquor Permit with age restrictions.

• Ordinance for modified hours in the CBDH District
• Proposal for Café Liquor Permits with age restrictions

The Town Council held a public hearing regarding an ordinance for modified hours and liquor permits for indoor venues in the CBDH District. No presentation or testimony was received, and the hearing was continued to December 21, 2022.

• Postponed ordinance permitting certain indoor venues in the CBDH District to stay open until 1:00 AM
• Continued public hearing to December 21, 2022

Town Council

The Town Council is reviewing several items including zoning changes and committee appointments. The agenda includes an appropriation not to exceed $1,500,000 for properties at 12 Brixton Street and 705 Oakwood Avenue. The council will also consider an ordinance regarding operating hours for certain indoor venues.

• Appropriation of up to $1,500,000 for properties at 12 Brixton Street and 705 Oakwood Avenue
• Zoning change application for redevelopment at Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue
• Ordinance for certain indoor venues in the CBDH District to operate until 1:00 AM
• Amendment to Blue Back Square guidelines regarding "Freestanding Shade Structures"
• Proposed Starbucks building at 433 South Main Street

The Town Council adopted a resolution to use American Rescue Plan Act grant funds for affordable housing. Several other items, including property purchases and zoning amendments, were referred to commissions or postponed.

• Approved resolution appropriating ARPA grant funds for affordable housing (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Jenna McClure to Design Review Advisory Committee (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Elizabeth Pang to Design Review Advisory Committee (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Joshua Kaplan to Town Plan and Zoning Commission (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Donald Neville as Town Plan and Zoning Commission alternate (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Deepak Khatiwada as Town Council Zoning Alternate (9-0)
• Approved reappointment of Robert Haber as Constable (9-0)
• Approved reappointment of four members to the Zoning Board of Appeals (9-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The Commission will review a presentation on the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan by Stantec. The meeting includes engineering updates regarding New Park Avenue and the operation of e-bikes and electric scooters. An update on the Road Safety Audit and Bike Facility Plan Revision RFP is also scheduled.

• West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan presentation
• Bicycle Friendly Community application review
• New Park Avenue Complete Streets alternatives review
• Discussion on e-bike and electric scooter operation
• Road Safety Audit and Bike Facility Plan Revision RFP update

Prevention Council

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate regarding requests for auxiliary aids or services. No meeting items, discussions, or decisions are listed.

The Council approved the November meeting minutes with minor corrections. Members discussed the use of approximately $130,000 in initial opioid settlement funds to address priorities from a 2021 Wellness/Needs Assessment. Howard Dashefsky agreed to serve another term on the Council.

• Approved November minutes with minor corrections (unanimous)
• Confirmed Howard Dashefsky's reappointment to the Council
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The meeting includes scheduled staff reports from the Fire Department and Police Department. No specific business items or communications were detailed on the agenda.

• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will receive updates on the adaptation of an Antisemitism Definition. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a student-led vigil for victims of gun violence and the 2022 Human Rights Day Celebration. Additionally, commissioners will provide updates on the West Hartford Food Pantry and commission outreach.

• Update on the adaptation of an Antisemitism Definition
• Discussion of a student-organized vigil for victims of gun violence
• Update on the 2022 Human Rights Day Celebration
• Update regarding the West Hartford Food Pantry
• Review of 2023 meeting dates

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The subcommittee is discussing plans for an upcoming project to assess the need for additional senior affordable housing in West Hartford. Members are also working to identify specific statistics regarding senior services and budgets that can be used to inform future recommendations.

• Plans for a project assessing senior affordable housing needs
• Identification of measurable concerns regarding senior services and budgets
• Development of a list of statistics to be gathered
• Discussion on ways to assist in finding senior housing
• Exploration of town funding for subcommittee projects

The Survey/Statistical Collections and Housing Subcommittee discussed logistics for a targeted survey of residents over 50. Members also discussed collaborating with the Housing Commission regarding affordable housing and the use of town structures.

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider resolutions to appropriate DOT Click It or Ticket grant funds and ARPA funds for affordable housing support. Staff reports will include updates on the operating budget projection and small business recovery grants. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss a property purchase.

• Resolution to appropriate DOT Click It or Ticket grant funds
• Resolution to appropriate ARPA grant funds for affordable housing support
• Update on the current year operating budget projection as of October 31, 2022
• Update on ARPA Small Business/Non-Profit Recovery Grants
• Executive session discussion regarding property at 705 Oakwood Avenue and 12 Brixton Street

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding synthetic turf fields at 29 Wampanoag Drive and baseball improvements at 170 Kingswood Road. The agenda also includes a review of a mixed-use redevelopment referral for LaSalle, Arapahoe, and Farmington Avenue.

• Rezoning referral for mixed-use redevelopment on LaSalle, Arapahoe, and Farmington Avenue
• Permit for synthetic turf field installation at 29 Wampanoag Drive
• Special Use Permit for baseball dugouts at 170 Kingswood Road
• Application for a portable modular trailer at 2240 Albany Avenue
• Proposed ordinance for extended hours in the CBDH District

The Commission approved special use permits for a high school turf field, school baseball dugouts, and a restaurant drive-through. It also recommended two items to the Town Council: a mixed-use redevelopment zone change and an ordinance regarding indoor venue hours in the CBDH District.

• Conditionally approved Inland Wetlands permit for synthetic turf at 29 Wampanoag Drive (5-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for synthetic turf at 29 Wampanoag Drive (4-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for baseball dugouts and netting at 170 Kingswood Road (5-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for restaurant drive-through at 433 South Main Street (5-0)
• Recommended approval to Town Council for mixed-use redevelopment zone change (4-1)
• Recommended approval to Town Council for CBDH District indoor venue ordinance (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 2240 Albany Avenue modular trailer application for Jan 4, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved November 2, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee meeting includes a business item regarding the Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) Grant Program. The agenda also covers communications, staff reports, and future agenda items.

• Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) Grant Program

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review a rezoning application for a project involving 83 multifamily units and 3,500 square feet of commercial space. They will also discuss the redevelopment of 900 Farmington Avenue into residential apartments.

• Rezoning application for LaSalle Road and Arapahoe Road properties
• Proposed construction of 83 multifamily units and 3,500 s.f. of commercial space
• Site Plan Application #1397 for 900 Farmington Avenue redevelopment
• Conversion of West Hartford Inn property into residential use

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding an application to amend the Special Development District at 433 South Main Street. The proposal by Corporate Center West Associates, LLC includes constructing a new 2,417 square foot Starbucks building and creating a mixed-use development parcel. Proposed improvements also include parking reconfiguration, landscaping, lighting, and pedestrian amenities.

• Amendment to SDD#15 at 433 South Main Street
• Construction of an approximately 2,417 s.f. Starbucks building
• Proposed parking layout reconfiguration
• Installation of new landscaping, lighting, and pedestrian amenities

The Town Council conducted a public hearing regarding an application by Corporate Center West, LLC to amend Special Development District 15. The proposal includes a 2,417 square-foot Starbucks building with a drive-through and associated site improvements. No final vote was taken during this hearing.

• None: Public hearing only

Town Council

The Council will consider an amendment to the Special Development District for a new 2,417 square foot Starbucks building. The agenda also includes a lease authorization for property at 10-50 Starkel Road and several board reappointments.

• Amendment to SDD#15 for a new 2,417 s.f. Starbucks building at 433 South Main Street
• Lease authorization with WHFH Development Corporation for 10-50 Starkel Road
• Reappointments to the Civilian Police Review Board and various town commissions
• Proposed architectural changes to Blue Back Square at 65 Memorial Road
• Proposed drive-through improvements for Chick-Fil-A at 511 New Park Avenue

The Town Council approved an amendment to Special Development District #15 to allow a new mixed-use development including a 2,417 s.f. Starbucks building. The approval includes specific conditions regarding snow removal, lighting, and construction parking. Several board reappointments and minor architectural amendments to other districts were also processed.

• Approved amendment to SDD#15 for Starbucks building at 433 South Main Street (9-0)
• Referred lease for 10-50 Starkel Road to Town Plan and Zoning Commission (8-0)
• Reappointed Kathleen Hindman and Matthew Horowitz to Civilian Police Review Board
• Reappointed Javier Colon, Susan Rothenberg and Mirela Panaitisor to Commission on the Arts
• Reappointed Jason Mirsky and Erin Conneely to Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities
• Reappointed Andrei Tarutin and Pamela Howard to Historic District Commission
• Reappointed Dawn Ennis, Essam Boraey and Kristyn Rosen-Jacobs to Human Rights Commission
• Appointed Mark D’Addabbo to West Hartford Housing Authority

Clean Energy Commission

The Clean Energy Commission will discuss a food waste pilot grant and a draft ordinance for a Sustainability Commission. Administrative updates and old business have been deferred to the next meeting.

• Blue Earth & Sustainable Materials Management Grant: Food Waste Pilot
• Draft Ordinance for Sustainability Commission
• Staff report regarding utility budget and Sustainable CT Awards

The Commission approved the minutes from the October meeting. Members discussed a food waste pilot program and a draft ordinance for a Sustainability Commission, though no formal votes were recorded for these items.

• Approved October meeting minutes

Conservation and Environment Commission

The Conservation and Environment Commission is holding a special virtual meeting on November 30, 2022. The agenda contains only procedural items, specifically the approval of the October 26, 2022, minutes.

• Approval of October 26, 2022 minutes

Library Board

The Board will review the library's piano policy and receive an update on the New Community Center & Library Project feasibility study. Members will also review October administrative reports and budget expenditures.

• Review of the library Piano Policy
• Update on the New Community Center & Library Project feasibility study
• Review of FY23 October budget expenditures totaling $1,093,772.33
• Approval of 2023 meeting dates

The Board approved the 2023 meeting schedule and the minutes from October 24, 2022. The December 2022 meeting was cancelled. The Board also noted that feasibility study results for the New Community Center & Library Project will be presented to the Town Council in early 2023.

• Approved October 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved cancellation of December 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Board meeting calendar (unanimous)

Mayor's Youth Council

The West Hartford Mayor's Youth Council meeting includes school reports from local institutions. Members will discuss new communication tools such as Discord and Google Classroom. The council will also address subcommittee updates and the Human Rights Commission Declaration of Human Rights.

• School reports from Conard, Hall, Kingswood Oxford, and New England Jewish Academy
• Discussion of communication methods including Email, Text, Discord, and Google Classroom
• Updates on the Butterfly Project and Environmental Video Contest
• Review of QPR Gatekeeper and Narcan Administration Training
• Human Rights Commission Declaration of Human Rights discussion

The council voted to use iMessage over WhatsApp for their group chat. Members also coordinated progress on several community projects, including a ceramic butterfly display and a food drive. The council decided to implement 'subcommittee weeks' for the 2023-2024 schedule.

• Approved use of iMessage for group chat (6-7 vote against WhatsApp)
• Decided to include subcommittee weeks in the 2023-2024 schedule
• Approved minutes with one correction to room number
• Appointed Tziyona and Jack as co-chairs of the Butterfly Project subcommittee

Human & Community Services Committee

The committee will receive staff reports regarding the library, leisure services, and social services. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from September 2019 and October 2022.

• Approval of September 19, 2019, and October 25, 2022, minutes
• Library Update November 2022
• Leisure Services and Social Services Update

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will review the application process for the Town Hall Public Display Committee's public art criteria and display policy. Members will also discuss the redevelopment of St. Brigid School/Community Center and private property murals. New business includes a discussion regarding the Elmwood Amtrak Bridge Mural.

• Review of Town Hall Public Art Display Policy application process
• Redevelopment of St. Brigid School/Community Center
• Private Property Murals and decorative signage
• Elmwood Amtrak Bridge Mural discussion

General

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to discuss Resolution 2022-6 regarding the approval of 2023 Payment Standards. This item will be addressed during an executive session that is not open to the public.

• Resolution 2022-6 to approve 2023 Payment Standards

Community Planning & Economic Development

This meeting consists of routine procedural items and a community development update. No specific projects, contracts, or ordinances are listed on this agenda.

• Approval of October 25, 2022 minutes
• Community Development Update

Civilian Police Review Board

The board will review West Hartford Police Department Administrative Inquiry 2022-02 and discuss proposed draft bylaws. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the October 19, 2022 meeting.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department Administrative Inquiry 2022-02
• Discussion of proposed draft bylaws
• Approval of October 19, 2022 meeting minutes

The board voted to sustain the findings of Administrative Inquiry 2022-01. Members also reviewed a third draft of the board's bylaws and established a monthly meeting schedule for 2023.

• Approved meeting minutes from 10/19/22 (3-0-2)
• Sustained findings of Administrative Inquiry 2022-01 (unanimous)
• Set 2023 meeting dates for the third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 pm

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The commission will review reports regarding social services, senior transportation, and senior centers. Members will also discuss proposed updates to the SCAC Town Code and Mission Statement.

• Proposed changes to the SCAC Town Code and Mission Statement
• Reports on social services, senior job bank, and transportation
• Updates regarding Senior Centers and Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee

The Commission voted to establish a sub-committee to collect and analyze data on adults over 55 to develop budget and resource recommendations for the Town Council. Members also discussed concerns regarding a new design for the ECC, specifically citing insufficient space for senior center areas and limited parking.

• Approved minutes from September 20, 2022
• Voted to create a Sub-Committee to analyze data on adults over 55 for budget recommendations
• Appointed Beth Rocco, Mary Reilly, and Kevin Ryan to the new Sub-Committee

Pension Board

The meeting materials provide an asset allocation review and market updates from Fiducient Advisors. The report details changes to inflation forecasts, interest rate expectations, and projected returns for various asset classes over 10-year and 20-year periods.

• Review of 10-year and 20-year investment return assumptions
• Update on inflation and interest rate forecasts
• Analysis of global bond and stock market performance

The Pension Board approved the 2023 meeting schedule with one date change and authorized pension administration updates, including memberships and retirement applications. The Board also approved a payment to Milliman for actuarial and special services.

• Approved 2023 meeting schedule with Nov. 27 meeting moved to Dec. 4
• Approved October 17, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Pension Administration updates for memberships, terminations, and retirement applications
• Approved $5,100 Milliman invoice for actuarial and special services

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss budget development and potential price increases. The meeting also includes updates on the Mayflower Property and capital improvements.

• Mayflower Property Update
• Capital Improvements Update
• Budget Development
• Price Increases
• Board position appointments

The Board adopted the September 19, 2022 meeting minutes. Members discussed updates on the New Elmwood Community Center feasibility study and several park infrastructure projects, including a $50,000 quick-fix for Eisenhower Pool.

• Adopted September 19, 2022 meeting minutes

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The commission will receive updates from the Town ADA Coordinator and the CERT Team. The agenda includes a report and discussion regarding IVS accessible voting. Dani Brown, Inclusion Support and Special Needs Coordinator, will also present as a guest speaker.

• Report/discussion on IVS Accessible voting
• Staff report from Town ADA Coordinator Suzanne Oslander
• ECC Advisory Commission update
• CERT Team update
• Presentation by Dani Brown, Inclusion Support and Special Needs Coordinator

The commission approved the 2023 meeting dates and the minutes from the September 12, 2022 meeting. Members discussed accessibility issues at polling sites and the Children's Museum, and heard a presentation on inclusion supports for teens and adults.

• Approved September 12, 2022 meeting minutes with one correction
• Approved 2023 meeting dates: Jan 9, Mar 13, May 8, Jun 26, Sep 11, and Nov 13

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold study sessions regarding potential new development applications. These include apartments with an affordable component at 900 Farmington Avenue and mixed-use development for the former UConn campus.

• Potential apartment redevelopment at 900 Farmington Avenue
• Proposed mixed-use development at 1700 and 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Study session for West Hartford Inn site plan application
• Study session for former UConn campus Special Development District application

Prevention Council

The council will compile achievements for the Town Council and discuss goals for 2023. The meeting also includes a review of the 2023 calendar and discussion regarding potential board members. Standing reports from various departments will be presented.

• Review of 2023 Council achievements and goals
• Discussion of potential Board members
• Review of 2023 calendar
• Standing reports from Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge), and Prevention Partnership Coalition

The Council unanimously approved the 2023 meeting calendar for the second Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m. Members discussed compiling 2022 achievements for the Town Council and identified a need for three new board members. Department reports covered opioid settlement funds, mental health activity, and school security.

• Approved minutes of September 9, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting calendar for 2nd Thursdays at 5:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Fair Rent Commission

The Commission will continue the hearing for Case #2022-09 involving Espinal De Perez, et al. and 3Fabco-Concord LLC. The meeting also includes an explanation of administrative hearing guidelines.

• Continuation of Case #2022-09 Espinal De Perez, et al. v. 3Fabco-Concord LLC
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines
• Approval of October 27, 2022 meeting minutes

The Commission approved a motion to withdraw a complaint in Case #2022-09 (Perez, et al. v. 3Fabco-Concord, LLC) contingent on specific conditions. These conditions include the completion of a rental application and identification by a named party and the withdrawal of an eviction from housing court.

• Approved minutes from October 27, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved withdrawal of Case #2022-09 complaint if rental application/ID is provided and eviction is withdrawn from housing court (unanimous)

Special Services District

The agenda consists of procedural items, including the approval of minutes from August 16, 2022. The body will also adopt a meeting schedule for 2023.

• Approval of August 16, 2022, meeting minutes
• Adoption of 2023 meeting schedule

The District approved the minutes from the August 16, 2022 meeting and adopted the schedule of meetings for 2023.

• Approved August 16, 2022 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Adopted 2023 schedule of meetings (9-0)

Public Hearing

Corporate Center West Associates, LLC has applied to amend Special Development District #15 for a new mixed-use development. The proposal includes an approximately 2,417 square foot Starbucks building and associated site improvements. No public testimony will be taken at this meeting as the hearing is expected to continue.

• SDD Amendment for 433 South Main Street
• Construction of a ~2,417 s.f. Starbucks building
• Parking layout reconfiguration
• New landscaping, lighting, and pedestrian amenities

The Town Council postponed the public hearing regarding a proposed mixed-use development and Starbucks building at 433 South Main Street. The hearing was continued to November 30, 2022.

• Postponed application for 433 South Main Street SDD#15 amendment
• Continued public hearing to November 30, 2022

Town Council

The Council will consider a mixed-use development amendment at 433 South Main Street that includes a new Starbucks building. The agenda also features several resolutions to allocate grant funds for highway safety, voting support, and library equipment.

• Mixed-use development and Starbucks construction at 433 South Main Street
• Zoning change application near Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue
• Grant funds for absentee ballot voting support
• Federal Highway Safety Program grants for speed and distracted driver enforcement
• Library Fund appropriation for computers, furniture, and equipment

The Town Council appointed Debra S. Polun to the council and updated committee assignments. The council approved several resolutions to appropriate grant funds for absentee voting, speed enforcement, and distracted driver enforcement. A zoning application for a mixed-use redevelopment was referred to commissions for further review.

• Approved appointment of Debra S. Polun to the Town Council (7-0)
• Referred Arapahoe Group, LLC zoning application to TPZ and DRAC (8-0)
• Waived fees for Arapahoe Group, LLC application (8-0)
• Adopted resolution for Secretary of State grant funds for absentee ballot voting (8-0)
• Adopted resolution for Federal Highway Safety Program funds for speed enforcement (8-0)
• Adopted resolution for Federal Highway Safety Program funds for distracted driver enforcement (8-0)
• Approved appropriation of West Hartford Library Fund for computers and equipment (Consent)
• Approved appropriation of funds for pest management (8-0)

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider several resolutions to appropriate grant funds for voting support, distracted driving enforcement, and speed enforcement. Additionally, members will review funding for pest management and library equipment purchases. An executive session is scheduled regarding a real estate lease at 10-50 Starkel Road.

• Grant from the Secretary of State to support absentee ballot voting
• Federal Highway Safety Program grant for distracted driving enforcement
• Highway Safety Program grant for speed enforcement activities
• Appropriation of funds for pest management
• Library fund appropriation for computers, furniture, and equipment

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will discuss the 'Bicycle Friendly Community' application and updates to the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan. The meeting also covers Fern Street traffic calming and Bicycle Network Map revisions.

• League of American Bicyclists “Bicycle Friendly Community” application
• West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan update
• Fern Street traffic calming
• Bicycle Network Map revision

The commission unanimously agreed to send a letter to the town supporting traffic calming on Fern Street and High Farms. Members also established a committee to review the town's 'Bicycle Friendly Community' application before a February resubmission.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to send letter to town supporting traffic calming on Fern Street and High Farms (unanimous)
• Established committee of Paul and Sandy to review Bicycle Friendly Community application
• Set 2023 meeting calendar

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will review the September 1, 2022, meeting minutes and receive an update on the Material Solution Center. The agenda also includes staff reports regarding facilities, public works, and sustainability.

• Approval of September 1, 2022, minutes
• Material Solution Center update
• Facilities update report
• Public Works update report
• Sustainability update report

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The sub-committee will continue its review of West Hartford Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, specifically sections 5-32 through 5-39. The group aims to propose language updates for the commission's mission statement for a future report.

• Review of West Hartford Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII (Sec. 5-32 through Sec. 5-39)
• Proposal of language and updates regarding the Commission mission statement

Public Safety Committee

The committee will receive staff reports from the Fire and Police Departments. The agenda also includes procedural items such as the approval of minutes from September 7 and October 7, 2022.

• Fire Department update
• Police Department update
• Approval of September 7, 2022, meeting minutes
• Approval of October 7, 2022, meeting minutes

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will receive updates on the adaptation of an antisemitism definition and the 2022 Human Rights Day celebration. The meeting also includes presentations from officials at the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities and the West Hartford Public Library.

• Update on the adaptation of an Antisemitism Definition
• Human Rights Day Celebration 2022 update
• West Hartford Food Pantry update
• Presentation from the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
• Approval of September 2022 meeting minutes

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will review applications for a new restaurant building, a Starbucks out-parcel, and a Special Development District amendment at 433 South Main Street. The agenda also includes permit requests for athletic field improvements at Northwest Catholic High School and Kingswood Oxford School.

• Resubdivision of 433 South Main Street to create an out-parcel for a Starbucks
• Inland Wetlands Permit for a new 2,417 sq. ft. restaurant at 433 South Main Street
• Special Use Permit for synthetic turf fields at 29 Wampanoag Drive
• Special Use Permit for baseball field dugouts and netting at 170 Kingswood Road
• Amendment to Special Development District #15-R1-22 for mixed-use development

The Commission approved a resubdivision and a conditional wetland permit for a new Starbucks restaurant at 433 South Main Street. Other applications for Northwest Catholic High School and Kingswood Oxford School were scheduled for future public hearings.

• Conditionally approved Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit for restaurant at 433 South Main Street (5-0)
• Approved Subdivision application for 433 South Main Street to create a new out-parcel (5-0)
• Found Northwest Catholic High School wetland application (29 Wampanoag Drive) potentially significant; set hearing for Dec 5 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Kingswood Oxford School special use permit (170 Kingswood Road) for Dec 5 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for Northwest Catholic High School special use permit (29 Wampanoag Drive) to Dec 5 (4-0)
• Approved 2023 TPZ meeting and filing dates (5-0)
• Approved October 3, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold an initial study session regarding a potential Special Development District application for 1700 and 1800 Asylum Avenue. The proposal involves the redevelopment of the former UConn campus with multifamily housing and mixed-use development.

• Initial study session for 1700 & 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Potential Special Development District application for former UConn campus
• Approval of September 1, 2022 and September 15, 2022 meeting minutes

Fair Rent Commission

The West Hartford Fair Rent Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss administrative hearing guidelines and review two specific rent cases. The commission will also approve minutes from the May 26, 2022, meeting.

• Case #2022-08: Maraschiello v. Highland Creativity LLC, et al.
• Case #2022-09: Espinal De Perez, et al. v. 3Fabco-Concord LLC
• Approval of May 26, 2022, meeting minutes
• Explanation of administrative hearing guidelines

The Commission determined rent amounts for Case #2022-08 and continued Case #2022-09 to a later date. The body also established a new monthly meeting schedule.

• Approved May 26, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Case #2022-08: Set rent at $985 for November and December 2022, increasing to $1,135 in January 2023 (unanimous)
• Case #2022-08: Made a referral to Social Services (unanimous)
• Case #2022-09: Continued meeting in two weeks to review health district notes; November 2022 rent check to be sent to the town (unanimous)
• Approved meeting on the 1st Thursday monthly

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is reviewing multiple applications for tax-exempt status. These include real property requests from RMS Development Inc. and a personal property request from Jewish Family Service of Greater Hartford. The board will also approve minutes from the June 9, 2022 meeting and set the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Tax exempt status request for 104 Oakwood Avenue units A-3, T-4, and B-7
• Tax exempt status request for 1074 North Main Street
• Tax exempt status request for 18 Thorne Road
• Tax exempt status request for Jewish Family Service of Greater Hartford at 333 Bloomfield Avenue

The Board of Assessors approved tax exempt status for several real and personal property requests from RMS Development Inc. and Jewish Family Service of Greater Hartford. The board also approved the meeting schedule for the 2023 calendar year.

• Approved minutes of June 9, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Granted tax exempt status for RMS Development Inc. at 104 Oakwood Avenue, Units A-3, T-4, and B-7 (unanimous)
• Granted tax exempt status for RMS Development Inc. at 1074 North Main Street (unanimous)
• Granted tax exempt status for RMS Development Inc. at 18 Thorne Road (unanimous)
• Granted personal property tax exempt status for Jewish Family Service of Greater Hartford at 333 Bloomfield Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule (unanimous)

Clean Energy Commission

The commission will review past meeting minutes and discuss upcoming 2023 schedules. The agenda includes updates on federal funding for sustainability projects and the town's energy plan. Staff will also report on EV charging and other programs.

• $140,000 in ARPA Sustainability Projects funds
• $137,000 IIJA EECBG funding
• Updates to the Energy or Climate Action Plan
• Staff reports on EV Charging and SolSmart
• Review of HeatSmart West Hartford

The Clean Energy Commission decided to form a working group to draft a new ordinance for a combined Sustainability Commission. The body also approved meeting minutes from August and September and agreed that Wednesdays are the preferred day for 2023 meetings.

• Approved August and September meeting minutes
• Agreed to Wednesday as the preferred meeting day for 2023
• Decided to form a working group to address the creation of a new ordinance for a Sustainability Commission

Conservation and Environment Commission

This special meeting is primarily procedural, featuring a public comment period and the approval of October minutes.

• Approval of October minutes

The Commission held a special virtual meeting to approve previous minutes. The Town Manager and Town Council indicated they do not intend to take action on the Commission's recommendations regarding law equipment at this time.

• Approved September meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will receive a presentation from Tecton concerning the New Elmwood Community Center. The agenda also includes staff reports and communications.

• New Elmwood Community Center - Tecton Presentation

Human & Community Services Committee

The committee will receive a presentation from Tecton regarding the New Elmwood Community Center. The agenda also includes staff reports and communications.

• New Elmwood Community Center - Tecton Presentation

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will conduct elections for officers and receive updates from various subcommittees. New business involves training on suicide prevention and Narcan administration.

• Election of officers
• Subcommittee reports including the Butterfly Project and Environmental Video Contest
• Elmwood Community Center Advisory Group Alternate discussion
• QPR Gatekeeper and Narcan Administration Training

The council held elections for officer and subcommittee chair positions. Members reviewed plans for a Holocaust remembrance project, an environmental video contest, and a personal care item drive.

• Approved amendments to previous meeting minutes
• Elected officers for Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, and various subcommittee roles via paper ballot
• Scheduled Butterfly Project events for January 29, 2023
• Set Environmental Video Contest timeline for January advertising and April winners
• Scheduled Kindness Project drop-offs from November 14 to December 16
• Scheduled West Hartford Immigrant Teens Halloween Meetup for October 29

Town Council

The Town Council will consider an ordinance allowing specific indoor venues in the CBDH District to operate until 1:00 AM three days a week. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding police vehicle funding, ARPA grants, and tax suspensions.

• Ordinance for certain CBDH District venues to stay open until 1:00 AM
• Resolution appropriating funds for additional police vehicles
• Resolution amending the FY 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant Budget
• Resolution authorizing suspension of taxes on the 2018 Grand List
• Appointment of Maura Malliet to the Board of Assessors

The Town Council approved several resolutions to appropriate funds for police vehicles, ARPA grants, and Community Development Block Grants. The Council also authorized the suspension of certain 2018 taxes and referred a liquor permit ordinance to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission.

• Approved appropriation of funds for additional police vehicles (8-0)
• Approved appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds (8-0)
• Approved amendment to FY 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant Budget (8-0)
• Approved suspension of 2018 Grand List taxes for motor vehicles and personal property (8-0)
• Referred indoor venue liquor permit ordinance to Town Plan and Zoning Commission for Dec 13 hearing (8-0)
• Appointed Maura Malliet to the Board of Assessors through Dec 31, 2026 (8-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 10-12-2022 (8-0)
• Received resignation of Councilor Adrienne Billings-Smith (8-0)

Historic District Commission

The commission will consider a certificate of appropriateness for a new mini split heat pump system at 55 West Hill Drive. The meeting also includes approval of the September 26, 2022, minutes and the 2023 calendar.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for a mini split heat pump system at 55 West Hill Drive

The Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for heat pump installations already completed at a residential property. The commission also approved the meeting minutes from September 26, 2022.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for two mini split heat pumps at 55 West Hill Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved September 26, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider resolutions to appropriate American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds and purchase additional police vehicles. The agenda also includes amending the FY 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant Budget and suspending certain 2018 taxes. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation strategy regarding NASRA WH, LLC v. Town of West Hartford.

• Appropriating American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds
• Amending the FY 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant Budget
• Purchasing additional police vehicles
• Suspending taxes owed on the 2018 Grand List for motor vehicles and personal property

Library Board

The Library Board will discuss updates regarding the New Community Center & Library Project and review the 2022-2023 holiday and Sunday schedule. The meeting also includes a presentation of administrative and budget reports for August and September.

• Progress update on the New Community Center & Library Project
• Review of the 2022-2023 holiday and Sunday schedule
• Presentation of August and September administrative and budget reports
• Establishment of 2023 meeting dates

The West Hartford Public Library Board met virtually on October 24, 2022, and unanimously approved the 2022-2023 holiday and Sunday schedule. The board also approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes and director's reports. A proposed policy review calendar was presented but no vote was taken. The feasibility study for the new Community Center and Library project is concluding, with presentations scheduled for the following week.

• Approved 2022-2023 holiday and Sunday library calendar (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including September 29 meeting minutes and director's reports (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of 2023 meeting dates to November

General

The West Hartford All Sports Council will meet to discuss leadership changes for the council. The agenda also includes reviews of gym use, capital project updates, and the role of the town regarding the ASC.

• Discussion of ASC leadership changes
• Review of gym use
• Capital project update
• Discussion on the role of the Town regarding the ASC
• League updates

Civilian Police Review Board

The board will review and evaluate West Hartford Police Department Administrative Inquiry 2022-01. Members will also discuss proposed draft bylaws.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department Administrative Inquiry 2022-01
• Discussion of proposed draft bylaws
• Approval of September 22, 2022 meeting minutes

The board voted unanimously to sustain the findings of Administrative Inquiry 2022-01, a review of a West Hartford Police investigation. They also approved the September 21, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0-1) and discussed a second draft of proposed bylaws, with a subcommittee tasked to prepare a revised draft for the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Sustained findings of Administrative Inquiry 2022-01 (unanimous)
• Approved September 21, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0-1)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on two variance petitions. One request involves a 2.1-foot rear yard setback for an addition at 242 Steele Road, while the other concerns fencing and netting at Northwest Catholic High School. The board will also approve minutes from February and September 2022.

• Variance for a +/- 2.1-foot rear yard setback at 242 Steele Road
• Request for 8-foot tall fencing and 30-foot safety netting at 29 Wampanoag Drive
• Request for dugout structures in front of the building line at 29 Wampanoag Drive
• Approval of minutes from February 16, 2022, and September 21, 2022

The West Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals approved two variance petitions at its October 19, 2022 meeting. The first granted a 2.1-foot rear yard setback variance for a home addition at 242 Steele Road. The second granted variances for an 8-foot fence, 30-foot safety netting, and dugout structures at Northwest Catholic High School, 29 Wampanoag Drive. Both votes were 5-0. Minutes from February and September 2022 meetings were also approved.

• Approved variance #23-22 for 242 Steele Road: 2.1-foot rear yard setback reduction for a home addition (5-0 vote).
• Approved variance #24-22 for 29 Wampanoag Drive (Northwest Catholic High School): 8-foot fence, 30-foot safety netting, and dugout structures in front of building line (5-0 vote; Commissioner Harris recused).
• Approved minutes from February 16, 2022 and September 21, 2022 regular meetings.

General

The West Hartford Senior Citizens Advisory Commission will review reports regarding social services, senior transportation, and senior centers. The commission will also discuss proposed updates to the SCAC Town Code and Mission Statement.

• Proposed changes to the SCAC Town Code and Mission Statement
• Reports on social services, senior job bank, and senior transportation
• Update on Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee

The West Hartford Senior Citizens Advisory Commission voted to create a new subcommittee to collect and analyze data on the town's allocation of resources for seniors, comparing it to surrounding communities. The subcommittee will work with town officials and groups like AARP to develop recommendations for the Town Council on budget increases and resources for seniors. The commission also discussed concerns about the proposed new ECC design, including insufficient space for senior areas and limited parking.

• Approved minutes of September 20, 2022 meeting as distributed
• Voted to establish a new Sub-Committee to analyze data on senior resources and budget allocations

Pension Board

The board will review a September market update and continue discussions on active versus passive investment strategies. Members will also consider approving pension administration records, including retirements and refunds. Additionally, the board will review invoices for consulting and custody services.

• Discussion of active versus passive investment strategy
• Review of September market flash report
• Invoice for Principal Custody Solutions ($9,706.31)
• Invoice for Fiducient Advisors ($12,500)
• Approval of pension administration including retirements and refunds

The West Hartford Pension Board approved amended minutes from its September 26 special meeting and unanimously passed several routine pension administration items, including membership lists, terminations, retirements, and two invoices totaling $22,206.31. No substantive policy decisions were made; the board deferred deeper discussion of investment strategy to its November meeting.

• Approved amended minutes from September 26 special meeting (unanimous)
• Approved pension administration items including memberships, terminations, and retirement applications (unanimous)
• Approved invoices: $9,706.31 to Principal Custody Solutions and $12,500 to Fiducient Advisors (unanimous)

General

The Commission on the Arts will review the application process for public art displays at Town Hall. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the redevelopment of St. Brigid School and private property murals.

• Review of Town Hall Public Art Criteria & Display Policy
• Redevelopment of St. Brigid School/Community Center
• Private Property Murals
• Elmwood Amtrak Bridge Mural

General

The Board of Assessors will review multiple requests for real and personal property tax-exempt status. The agenda also includes approving June 2022 meeting minutes and setting the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Tax exempt status request for RMS Development Inc. at 104 Oakwood Avenue (units A-3, T-4, B-7)
• Tax exempt status request for RMS Development Inc. at 1074 North Main Street
• Tax exempt status request for RMS Development Inc. at 18 Thorne Road
• Tax exempt status request for Jewish Family Service of Greater Hartford at 333 Bloomfield Avenue

General

The Design Review Advisory Committee is reviewing applications for several local development projects. These include a proposed Starbucks with a drive-through and multiple new residential buildings.

• Proposed 2,417 s.f. Starbucks with drive-through at 433 South Main Street
• New 22-unit multifamily apartment building at 52-54 North Main Street
• Five-story mixed-use building proposed for 1051-1061 New Britain Avenue
• Development with 89 housing units and 3,500 s.f. commercial space on LaSalle and Arapahoe Roads

The Design Review Advisory Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval of a new Starbucks with a drive-through at 433 South Main Street, the first application under the town's new restaurant drive-through zoning. The committee also voted 5-0 to recommend approval of a 22-unit multifamily apartment building at 52-54 North Main Street. Two other projects were discussed but no formal votes were taken. Minutes from the September 29 meeting were approved; minutes from three earlier meetings were tabled.

• Recommended approval of Starbucks drive-through at 433 South Main St (6-0)
• Recommended approval of 22-unit apartment building at 52-54 North Main St (5-0)
• Approved September 29, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Tabled approval of September 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Tabled approval of September 1, 2022 meeting minutes
• Tabled approval of July 28, 2022 meeting minutes

General

The council will approve minutes from the September 9, 2022 meeting. Members will also compile achievements for the Town Council and set goals for 2023. Standing reports from various departments will be presented.

• Approval of September 9, 2022 minutes
• Compilation of council achievements for Town Council
• Setting of 2023 goals
• Standing reports from Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge), and Prevention Partnership Coalition

General

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will discuss a recommendation regarding an antisemitism definition. The meeting includes updates on the 2022 Human Rights Day Celebration and the West Hartford Food Pantry. Guest speakers from the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities and the library system will also present.

• Update on adaptation of Antisemitism Definition
• Human Rights Day Celebration 2022 update
• West Hartford Food Pantry update
• Presentation by investigators from the CT Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
• Approval of September 2022 meeting minutes

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding a zone change application from WH Partners LLC. The proposal seeks to rezone 3.9 acres at 950 Trout Brook Drive and part of 125 Kingswood Road for multi-family residential use. This includes a request for a Special Development District Designation overlay.

• Zone change from RM-2 and RM-3 to RM-MS at 950 Trout Brook Drive
• Request for Special Development District Designation overlay
• Redevelopment of 3.9 acres for multi-family residential use
• Application includes a portion of 125 Kingswood Road

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on an application by West Hartford Partners, LLC to rezone 3.9 acres at 950 Trout Brook Drive and a portion of 125 Kingswood Road from RM-2 and RM-3 to RM-MS with a Special Development District overlay for a 172-unit multifamily residential building. The applicant presented plans including 9 affordable units, traffic improvements, and a 1.88 parking ratio. Public comment was divided, with neighbors raising concerns about traffic, noise, light, and building scale, while supporters cited housing demand and economic benefits. The hearing was closed after 10 p.m.; no vote was taken during the hearing.

• No decisions were made during the public hearing; the hearing was closed and the matter was continued to the Town Council meeting.

Town Council

The Town Council will consider a rezoning application for a multi-family residential project at 950 Trout Brook Drive and part of 125 Kingswood Road. The meeting also includes the appointment of a new Zoning Alternate. Additionally, the council will receive communications regarding several commission resignations.

• Rezoning application for 950 Trout Brook Drive and 125 Kingswood Road
• Appointment of Diana Sousa as Town Council Zoning Alternate
• Resignations from the Human Rights Commission
• Resignation from the Conservation and Environment Commission

The Town Council approved a zone change and Special Development District designation for 3.9 acres at 950 Trout Brook Drive and part of 125 Kingswood Road, allowing redevelopment as multi-family housing. The vote was 7-2, with Councilors Cortes and Fay opposed. Several items were approved on the consent calendar, including appointments and resignations.

• Approved rezoning and SDD for 950 Trout Brook Drive multi-family project (7-2)
• Adopted consent calendar including minutes, appointments, and resignations (8-0)

General

The commission will discuss the structure of a proposed “umbrella” Sustainability Commission and receive answers from town staff regarding its implementation. The meeting also includes updates on the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan and Woodrow Street traffic calming.

• Proposed “umbrella” Sustainability Commission
• West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan update
• Woodrow Street traffic calming
• Discussion of possible locations for a new bicycle repair station

The West Hartford Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission discussed a proposed umbrella Sustainability Commission that would consolidate multiple commissions. No decision was made; the commission agreed to continue discussions at a future meeting. A vote was taken to support a new bicycle repair station at Blueback Square near the Noah Webster Library.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Supported Blueback Square near Noah Webster Library as location for new bicycle repair station (vote)
• Tabled West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan update to next meeting
• Tabled Woodrow Street traffic calming to next meeting
• Deferred decision on joining umbrella Sustainability Commission

Public Safety Committee

The committee will receive staff reports from the Fire and Police Departments. The agenda does not list any specific business items or communications for discussion.

• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

General

The Conservation and Environment Commission will discuss reorganizing its efforts, including a vote on whether to combine with other town commissions. The meeting also includes discussions on municipal land management proposals and new study topics such as waste and water resources.

• Vote on combining the commission with other groups or staying separate
• Discussion of C. Feely proposals regarding municipal land management
• Drafting a joint letter to support ARPA sustainability projects
• Introduction of study topics including food waste, composting, and water resources

The Conservation and Environment Commission voted unanimously to adopt a resolution initiating the process of merging with the Clean Energy Commission and/or the Bike/Ped Commission to form a single Sustainability Commission. The commission also agreed to support a joint letter requesting $140,000 in ARPA funding for three sustainability projects, with a request for future involvement in project selection. No other binding decisions were made; several items were discussed but deferred to future meetings.

• Approved resolution to initiate merger with Clean Energy and/or Bike/Ped Commissions into a Sustainability Commission (unanimous)
• Approved September, June (amended), and July (amended) meeting minutes (all unanimous)
• Agreed to support joint letter for $140,000 ARPA funding for tree canopy survey, pollinator gardens, and rainwater runoff gardens

General

The Commission will review several applications for 433 South Main Street, including a new restaurant building and a parcel resubdivision for a Starbucks. The agenda also includes a public hearing for parking lot lighting at 87 Mountain Road and a rezoning request for 950 Trout Brook Drive.

• Resubdivision of 433 South Main Street to create an out-parcel for a new Starbucks
• Permit application for a 2,417 square foot restaurant building at 433 South Main Street
• Special Use Permit for a new drive-through facility at 433 South Main Street
• Public hearing for parking lot lighting at 87 Mountain Road
• Rezoning of 950 Trout Brook Drive to RM-1 for parking expansion

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved a Special Use Permit for the West Hartford Art League to install new parking lot lighting, with conditions including lights off by 10 PM. The commission also scheduled public hearings for a proposed Starbucks restaurant with drive-through at 433 South Main Street and a resubdivision for the same parcel, and recommended approval of a zone change for a multi-family development at 950 Trout Brook Drive to the Town Council.

• Approved Special Use Permit for West Hartford Art League parking lot lighting (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Starbucks restaurant with drive-through at 433 South Main Street (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for resubdivision at 433 South Main Street (5-0)
• Recommended approval of zone change for multi-family development at 950 Trout Brook Drive to Town Council (5-0)
• Determined Cinepolis SUP compliance required no additional conditions (5-0)
• Continued Northwest Catholic High School synthetic turf field hearing to November 2 (5-0)
• Received withdrawal of two applications for 85 Sunset Farm Road (5-0)
• Determined 433 South Main Street wetlands application potentially significant, set for hearing (0-5)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold an initial study session regarding a revised application by The Arapahoe Group, LLC. The proposal includes the construction of 89 multifamily housing units and 3,500 square feet of commercial space. The project involves the demolition of two existing buildings on Arapahoe Road.

• Proposed mixed-use development at LaSalle Road, Arapahoe Road, and Farmington Avenue
• Construction of 89 multifamily housing units
• Creation of 3,500 square feet of new commercial space
• Demolition of two existing buildings on Arapahoe Road

The Design Review Advisory Committee held a study session on a revised application for a mixed-use development at 27-43 & 53-65 LaSalle Road, 8 & 12 Arapahoe Road and 1001 Farmington Avenue. The applicant presented changes including a 15-foot reduction in building A's length and increased landscaping, but multiple committee members stated the mass and scale of building A remained incompatible with the site. No formal vote was taken; the discussion was preliminary and the committee encouraged further refinement.

• No formal decisions made; study session only on revised mixed-use plan for LaSalle Road properties
• Committee members expressed that building A's mass and scale remain incompatible with surroundings despite 6% reduction
• Applicant asked to continue refining design collaboratively with DRAC

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will discuss an application from Blue Back Capital Partners, LLC regarding indoor recreation or amusement facilities in the CBDH Zoning District. The proposal seeks to amend the West Hartford Code of Ordinances to allow these facilities to stay open until 1:00 am three days a week. The application also includes requests for Café Liquor Permits and age-based access restrictions.

• Proposed ordinance amendment for Blue Back Square owners
• Extension of operating hours to 1:00 am three days a week
• Request for Café Liquor Permit for certain facilities
• Age-based access restrictions for indoor recreation or amusement facilities

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is holding a public hearing regarding an application from Northbrook Place, LLC & Elite Apartments, LLC. The application seeks rezoning and a Special Development District designation for 99 South Main Street.

• Rezoning application for 99 South Main Street
• Special Development District (SDD) designation request for 99 South Main Street

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on September 28, 2022, for an application by Northbrook Place, LLC and Elite Apartments, LLC to rezone and designate a Special Development District at 99 South Main Street. The proposal includes adding 22 parking spaces, re-permitting a basement unit, and installing an eight-foot fence. No decision was made; the hearing was closed and the matter will be considered at a future council meeting.

• Public hearing opened and closed for rezoning and SDD application at 99 South Main Street
• No vote taken; application remains pending

Clean Energy Commission

The Commission will discuss federal funding opportunities, including $137,000 from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Members will also review updates on sustainability commissions and a joint letter supporting ARPA projects.

• $137,000 EECBG funds via the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
• Joint Letter to support ARPA 'sustainability projects'
• Review of natural gas leak data from Sierra Club
• Planning for an insulation workshop through the library

The West Hartford Clean Energy Commission voted 6-0 to send a joint letter to Town Council supporting $140,000 in ARPA-funded sustainability projects, subject to adding language about future implementation funding. The commission also discussed merging with the Conservation & Environment Commission, received updates on HeatSmart and the Elmwood Community Center, and noted the town will receive $137,000 in federal EECBG funds. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved joint letter to Council supporting $140K sustainability projects (6-0)
• Postponed approval of August 31, 2022 meeting minutes due to posting delay
• Tabled discussion of natural gas leaks FOIA data from Sierra Club

Town Council

The Council will consider a rezoning application for 99 South Main Street and easements for the Fern Street Bridge Replacement Project. The agenda also includes an amendment for a new Starbucks building at 433 South Main Street.

• Rezoning application for 99 South Main Street
• Easements for the Fern Street Bridge Replacement Project
• Proposed Starbucks building at 433 South Main Street
• Approval of minutes regarding $495,000 tennis court replacement funding

The West Hartford Town Council voted 9-0 to approve a rezoning and special development district designation for 99 South Main Street, and also unanimously authorized easements for the Fern Street Bridge replacement project. A proposal for a new Starbucks at 433 South Main Street was referred to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission for a public hearing.

• Approved rezoning and Special Development District for 99 South Main Street (9-0)
• Authorized temporary and permanent easements for Fern Street Bridge replacement (9-0)
• Referred 433 South Main Street Starbucks proposal to TPZ and DRAC, set public hearing for November 9, 2022 (9-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including minutes from September 13, 2022, and communications (9-0)

Pension Board

This report provides a performance update for the Town of West Hartford Pension Plan through August 2022. It reviews market trends across fixed income, equities, and real assets. The fund recorded a monthly loss of $16,525,978.

• Ending market value of $480,060,185 for August 2022
• Monthly loss of $16,525,978
• Year-to-date loss of $66,642,460
• Domestic equity holdings valued at $216,592,712
• Fixed income holdings valued at $139,436,969

The West Hartford Pension Board voted unanimously to move from biennial to annual pension valuations, increasing fees by $18,000 every other year with a potential $2,000 credit. The board also approved minutes, pension administration items including memberships, terminations, and retirement applications, and received a quarterly investment review showing the portfolio down approximately 11% for the quarter.

• Approved switch from biennial to annual pension valuations (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 16, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 13, 2022 special meeting (unanimous)
• Approved pension administration items including memberships, terminations, and retirement applications (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Historic District Commission will review several applications for Certificates of Appropriateness. These requests include door replacements, heat pump installations, and structural changes to various properties. The commission will also approve minutes from the July and August 2022 meetings.

• Garage door replacement at 7 West Hill Drive
• Front entry door and sidelight replacement at 112 Mountain Road
• Heat pump installation and shingle replacement at 1563 Boulevard
• Framed dormer and new garage shed at 1597 Boulevard
• Parking lot light fixture installation at 87 Mountain Road

The West Hartford Historic District Commission approved four Certificates of Appropriateness and denied one. Approved: replacement garage doors at 7 West Hill Drive, fiber-cement siding at 1563 Boulevard, a mini-split heat pump at 1563 Boulevard, a dormer and shed at 1597 Boulevard, and a parking lot light at 87 Mountain Road (with a 10:00 p.m. shutoff condition). Denied: replacement front entry and side windows at 112 Mountain Road. The commission also approved minutes from July and August 2022 meetings.

• Approved COA for replacement garage doors at 7 West Hill Drive (unanimous)
• Denied COA for replacement front entry and side windows at 112 Mountain Road (unanimous)
• Approved COA for fiber-cement siding at 1563 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved COA for mini-split heat pump at 1563 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved COA for dormer and shed at 1597 Boulevard (unanimous; Tarutin recused)
• Approved COA for parking lot light at 87 Mountain Road with 10:00 p.m. shutoff condition (4-0-1; Tarutin abstained)
• Approved July 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 25, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

General

The West Hartford Housing Authority Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to discuss a real estate transaction. This discussion is scheduled for an executive session and will not be open to the public.

• Executive session regarding a real estate transaction

Civilian Police Review Board

The West Hartford Civilian Police Review Board will review West Hartford Police Department Investigation File CC 22-05. The board will also discuss proposed draft bylaws.

• Approval of August 17, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of West Hartford Police Department Investigation File CC 22-05
• Discussion of proposed draft bylaws

The Civilian Police Review Board voted unanimously to sustain the findings of Internal Affairs Investigation CC-22-05. The board also approved the August 17, 2022 meeting minutes with 3 in favor, 0 opposed, and 2 abstentions. A subcommittee was formed to revise draft bylaws for discussion at the next meeting.

• Sustained findings of Internal Affairs Investigation CC-22-05 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of August 17, 2022 (3-0, 2 abstentions)
• Formed subcommittee to revise draft bylaws

Human Rights Commission

The commission will discuss adapting an Antisemitism Definition and upcoming community events. Members will also plan for October meetings and coordinate with investigators from the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

• Adaptation of Antisemitism Definition
• Park Road Parade (October 1, 2022)
• Lieutenant Governor’s Hands Off Our Bodies rally (September 24, 2022)
• Coordination with Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities investigators
• October meeting date change due to Yom Kippur

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission decided to march in the Park Road Parade on October 1, 2022, with a banner. Members also agreed to promote the Lieutenant Governor's 'Bans Off Our Bodies' rally on social media, and Eric Schoenberg volunteered to take over the project of recommending an antisemitism definition. The October meeting was rescheduled to Thursday, October 13, 2022, due to Yom Kippur, and the commission agreed to invite Ron Simpson, Ann Galer, and Laura Irmscher as speakers. A subcommittee was created to plan Human Rights Day, and members will reach out to the Food Pantry and local businesses about food insecurity.

• Decided to march in the West Hartford Park Road Parade on October 1, 2022, with a banner
• Approved motion to share information about the Lieutenant Governor's 'Bans Off Our Bodies' rally on social media (voice vote passed)
• Eric Schoenberg volunteered to lead the adoption of an antisemitism definition, replacing Sarah Raskin
• Changed October meeting date to Thursday, October 13, 2022, at 7:00 PM at Elmwood Community Center due to Yom Kippur
• Agreed to invite Ron Simpson and Ann Galer from the CT Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities as October speakers
• Agreed to invite Laura Irmscher, West Hartford's new Library Director, as an October speaker
• Created a subcommittee (Kristyn Rosen-Jacobs and Aurora Melita) to plan Human Rights Day event (motion passed by voice vote)
• Decided to contact the Food Pantry and local businesses to address food insecurity in West Hartford

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review four petitions regarding zoning variances. These include requests for additional signage at 180 Mohegan Drive and changes to parking at 8 Colonial Street. The board will also approve minutes from February and July 2022 meetings.

• Signage variance at 180 Mohegan Drive requesting 48 additional square feet
• Side yard setback variance at 54 Four Mile Road for a second-floor addition
• Parking and fencing variances at 8 Colonial Street
• Special Exception request for elderly home-care services at 795 Farmington Avenue

The West Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals approved all four petitions on its agenda, including variances for signage at the Children's Museum, a side-yard setback for a home addition, parking and fence variances for a condo association, and a one-year special exception for a home-based elderly care office. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved variance for Children's Museum signage at 180 Mohegan Drive, limiting approval to four new signs (19 sq ft) and excluding existing non-conforming signs (5-0)
• Approved 9-inch side-yard setback variance at 54 Four Mile Road for a second-floor addition (5-0)
• Approved 27-foot parking variance and fence variance at 8 Colonial Street for three additional parking stalls and screening fence (5-0)
• Granted one-year special exception at 795 Farmington Avenue for home-based elderly care office with conditions on hours, parking, employees, and signage (5-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission will review minutes from the June 21, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes discussions regarding senior transportation, senior centers, and a seniors job bank.

• Report by new West Hartford Town Manager Rick Ledwith
• Review and approval of June 21, 2022 minutes
• Seniors Job Bank discussion
• Transportation for Seniors discussion
• Sub-Committee on SCAC Code & Mission Statement report

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission heard a presentation from Town Manager Rick Ledwith on the new Elmwood Community Center/Senior Center/Youth Center/Library project at 100 Mayflower Street. Three design options are under review with Tecton Architects, and public input meetings are scheduled for October 6 and October 26. The commission also approved the minutes of the June 21, 2022 meeting as distributed.

• Approved minutes of June 21, 2022 meeting as distributed

Pension Board

The board will conduct a quarterly investment review and discuss active versus passive investment strategies. Members will also continue discussions regarding changing valuation services from biennial to annual. Additionally, the board is scheduled to approve various pension administration items.

• Q2 2022 quarterly investment review
• Discussion on active versus passive investment strategy
• Continued discussion on changing valuation service frequency
• Approval of pension memberships, terminations, and refunds
• Approval of retirement applications

The West Hartford Pension Board's regular meeting scheduled for September 19, 2022 was cancelled because of technological problems that prevented streaming via YouTube. No decisions or discussions took place.

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will review the May 16, 2022 meeting minutes and receive updates on the Mayflower Property and capital improvements. The agenda also includes discussions regarding pollinator gardens, the Feast on the Farm event, and board position appointments.

• Mayflower Property Update
• Capital Improvements Update
• Pollinator Gardens discussion
• Feast on the Farm – September 30
• Board position appointments and terms

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board met on September 19, 2022, and discussed updates on the Mayflower Property planning, Eisenhower Pool closure, and various capital improvements. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved change of next meeting date to November 14, 2022 (4-0)

Human & Community Services Committee

The committee will discuss the New Elmwood Community Center and receive staff updates on library and social services.

• New Elmwood Community Center
• Library Services Update
• Leisure and Social Service Update

The committee received updates on the Elmwood Community Center project, including public outreach and design options, and on Leisure and Social Services, including a strong summer program return and two bequests to lower senior center costs. The Eisenhower Pool RFP ends next week with a goal to open next summer. No formal votes were taken; all items were informational.

• No formal votes or decisions recorded; all items were updates and discussions

Library Board

The Library Board reviewed August administrative reports, including an 18% increase in circulation. The meeting also covered progress on the new Community Center & Library project and the formation of a new emergency response group.

• Tecton Architects presented feasibility updates for the New Community Center & Library project
• Formation of a new Emergency Response Working Group to create procedures for library buildings
• Elimination of Interlibrary Loan (ILL) fees
• Fern Street Backpack Program distributed over 4,000 pounds of food this summer

The West Hartford Library Board met virtually on September 19, 2022, and unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the meeting minutes from July 25, 2022. The board discussed the library's strategic plan, staff professional development, and community outreach efforts such as the Fern Street Summer Backpack Program. No votes were taken on new business items.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes from July 25, 2022) unanimously

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review a rezoning application for 950 Trout Brook Drive to allow for a 172-unit multifamily building. The meeting also includes a study session regarding the redevelopment of 52-54 North Main Street.

• Rezoning of 950 Trout Brook Drive for a 172-unit multifamily residential building
• Proposed demolition and construction at 52-54 North Main Street
• Review of design, landscape, and shadow studies for the Trout Brook Drive project

The Design Review Advisory Committee voted unanimously (4-0) to recommend approval of a new Special Development District and rezoning for a 172-unit multifamily building at 950 Trout Brook Drive. The committee also held a second study session for a proposed multifamily building at 52-54 North Main Street, discussing design changes. No other decisions were made.

• Recommended approval of 172-unit multifamily building at 950 Trout Brook Drive (4-0)
• Held second study session for multifamily building at 52-54 North Main Street (no vote)

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will discuss meeting structures, past accomplishments, and new subcommittee collaborations for the 2022-2023 term. The agenda also covers procedures for upcoming leadership elections. A presentation by the Sierra Club Connecticut Chapter is scheduled.

• Establishment of 2022-2023 subcommittees including Golden Door Hartford and Sierra Club CT Chapter
• Elections for roles including Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, and various subcommittee chairs
• Presentation by Christine Feely of the Sierra Club Connecticut Chapter

The Mayor's Youth Council reviewed past accomplishments and organized into subcommittees for the 2022-2023 year, including environmental video contest, butterfly project, immigrant teens, walking tour, and kindness project. Members must serve on at least one subcommittee with no more than 9 members. Elections for officers were announced for October 25.

• Announced 2022-2023 impact projects and subcommittees
• Members selected subcommittees; chairs designated for each
• Set subcommittee size limit of 9 members to avoid quorum
• Scheduled next meeting and elections for October 25
• Discussed meeting frequency; will continue monthly with optional subcommittee work sessions

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is holding a public hearing regarding an ordinance to replace tennis courts at Conard High School and Hall High School. The proposal includes an appropriation of up to $495,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. It also seeks authorization to issue bonds up to $495,000 to fund the project.

• Ordinance for tennis court replacement at Conard and Hall High Schools
• Appropriation of up to $495,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund
• Authorization of bond issuance not to exceed $495,000

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on an ordinance to appropriate up to $495,000 and authorize bonds for replacing tennis courts at Conard and Hall High Schools. The project's total cost is $3,354,500, with the additional funds covering potential overruns. A resident raised concerns about lack of construction notice and landscaping, which the town manager apologized for and promised to address. No vote was taken at this hearing.

• Public hearing held on ordinance to appropriate $495,000 and issue bonds for tennis court replacement at Conard and Hall High Schools
• Town manager apologized for lack of construction notice to neighbor and committed to improved communication
• Town manager confirmed construction will include privacy barriers and proper drainage for adjacent properties

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council scheduled a public hearing regarding an application by The Arapahoe Group, LLC for a zone change and Special Development District designation. This application has been withdrawn, and no presentation or testimony will be taken.

• Withdrawal of The Arapahoe Group, LLC application for Zone Change & SDD at Arapahoe/LaSalle Roads

The applicant requested withdrawal of the zone change application for a mixed-use development along Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue to allow more time for design improvements. The Town Council accepted the withdrawal without objection, and the public hearing was closed with no public comment.

• Applicant withdrew zone change from RP/RO/RM-O to BC with Special Development District (no vote needed)
• Council accepted withdrawal and closed public hearing

Town Council

The council voted 8-0 to adopt an ordinance appropriating up to $495,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund and authorizing bonds to replace tennis courts at Conard and Hall High Schools. Two applications were withdrawn: a mixed-use development rezoning by The Arapahoe Group, LLC, and a request by Blue Back Capital Partners to allow later hours and a liquor permit for an indoor recreation facility. The council also approved resolutions to participate in a brownfield grant program for 900 Farmington Avenue and to appropriate American Rescue Plan Act funds.

• Adopted ordinance appropriating $495,000 and authorizing bonds for tennis court replacements at Conard and Hall High Schools (8-0).
• Received withdrawal of rezoning application by The Arapahoe Group, LLC for mixed-use development (9-0).
• Received withdrawal of application by Blue Back Capital Partners, LLC to amend code for later hours and liquor permit at Blue Back Square (9-0).
• Adopted resolution authorizing participation in Brownfield Municipal Grant Program for 900 Farmington Avenue (9-0).
• Adopted resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act grant funds (9-0).
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, police communications equipment relocation funds, and police vehicle purchase funds (9-0).

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will review resolutions regarding American Rescue Plan Act funds and police department equipment. The agenda also includes discussing participation in a grant program for the remediation of 900 Farmington Avenue.

• Appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds
• Additional funds for police vehicle purchases
• Funding for temporary relocation of police communications equipment
• Brownfield Municipal Grant Program participation for 900 Farmington Avenue
• Human Resources update

The Finance & Administration Committee voted to appropriate $500k in ARPA funds for a town-wide wayfinding signage project, $41k for 2023 police vehicles after a Ford order cancellation, and $101k for relocating police communications equipment. They also authorized applying for a $998k Brownfield grant to remediate 900 Farmington Avenue for 44 affordable housing units. All items were approved without recorded opposition.

• Appropriated $500k in ARPA funds for the Wayfinding Signage Project to improve navigation and connectivity across town
• Appropriated $41k from the Capital Nonrecurring Fund to cover increased cost of five 2023 police vehicles after Ford cancelled the original order
• Appropriated $101k from an expired overpayments account to temporarily relocate a police radio antenna during roof replacement at the Hartford Insurance Group building
• Authorized the Town Manager to apply for a $998k Brownfield Municipal Grant for environmental remediation and redevelopment of 900 Farmington Avenue into 44 mixed-income housing units

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The commission will receive updates on new voting locations and discuss crosswalks, curb cuts, and traffic signals. The meeting includes reports from the Town ADA Coordinator and the CERT Team. A guest speaker will also present on equity advancement for public schools and the town.

• Update on new voting locations
• Discussion of crosswalks, curb cuts, and traffic signals
• Staff report from Town ADA Coordinator Suzanne Oslander
• ECC Advisory Commission update
• CERT Team update

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities reviewed ADA compliance problems at two polling locations and a dangerous crosswalk misalignment that has since been corrected. They also heard from the town's new Executive Director of Equity Advancement about accessibility concerns. No formal decisions were voted on.

• Minutes from June 27, 2022 meeting approved
• Next meeting scheduled for November 14, 2022 at 7:00 PM at Elmwood Community Center Auditorium

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review updates regarding the New Park Avenue Complete Streets analysis and a walk audit presentation. The meeting also includes a request for traffic calming on Woodrow Street.

• New Park Avenue Complete Streets alternatives analysis update
• New Park Avenue “Walk Audit” presentation by Transport Hartford Academy
• Woodrow Street traffic calming request
• Updates from Engineering and Planning & Zoning

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission voted to draft a letter to town staff supporting traffic calming measures on Woodrow Street, where residents reported speeds up to 63 MPH. The commission also discussed its position on a proposed umbrella sustainability commission, voting to remain independent. Updates were provided on the New Park Avenue Complete Streets project, including town decisions on road diet and bike lane designs.

• Approved motion to draft letter supporting traffic calming on Woodrow Street (unanimous)
• Voted to remain independent from proposed umbrella sustainability commission (6-0-1, Paul abstained)
• Approved previous meeting minutes

Prevention Council

The council will discuss the introduction of 988 and updates regarding the hiring process for a West Hartford Prevention Specialist. The agenda also includes reviews of upcoming mental health event calendars and training opportunities for Narcan and QPR.

• Introduction of 988
• Update on West Hartford Prevention Specialist position
• Narcan and QPR training sessions
• SAMHSA mental health event calendar

The West Hartford Prevention Council met on September 8, 2022, and received updates from member agencies. No formal votes or decisions were made. The meeting included reports on social services (housing, mental health), police (active shooter drills), public health (QPR, Narcan, flu/COVID clinics), schools (sports programs, mental health focus), and youth services (school-based clinic, mentoring program growth). The Council discussed the need for new members and a secretary. The meeting adjourned at 6 p.m.

• Approved minutes of June 9, 2022 meeting
• Discussed need for new Council members and secretary; no appointments made
• Heard reports from Social Services, Police, Public Health, Schools, and Youth Services Bureau
• Adjourned at 6 p.m.

Public Safety Committee

The committee will review staff reports from the Fire and Police departments. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the June 1, 2022, meeting.

• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update
• Approval of June 1, 2022 minutes

The Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and discussed two upcoming resolutions: an appropriation to replace five cancelled police vehicles with 2023 models, and funding to relocate a police communications antenna due to roof work. The committee also received updates on fire department outreach and police accreditation progress.

• Approved June 1, 2022 minutes

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission is reviewing several applications for land use and special permits. This includes a proposal for a new multi-unit residential complex and a request for a temporary dog park. Several public hearings are also scheduled regarding golf course restoration and field conversions.

• Proposed 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive
• Request for a temporary dog park at 100 Mayflower Street
• Conversion of grass sports fields to synthetic turf at 29 Wampanoag Drive
• Golf course restoration and drainage improvements at 60 Wampanoag Drive
• Rezoning request for parking expansion at 99 South Main Street

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission conditionally approved an Inland Wetlands permit for a 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive, finding the project non-significant. The commission also approved a temporary dog park at 100 Mayflower Street, a greenhouse at 139 North Main Street, and wetland permits for a new home at 2 Ferncliff Drive and a golf course restoration at 60 Wampanoag Drive. Several items were continued to the October 3 meeting, including a Cinepolis alcohol service review and a synthetic turf field at Northwest Catholic High School.

• Approved 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive (4-0)
• Approved temporary dog park at 100 Mayflower Street (5-0)
• Approved greenhouse at 139 North Main Street (5-0)
• Approved wetland permit for new home at 2 Ferncliff Drive (4-0)
• Approved wetland permit for golf course restoration at 60 Wampanoag Drive (5-0)
• Approved Woodridge Lake and Wood Pond fall drawdown (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Fern Street Bridge easements to Town Council (5-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning at 99 South Main Street to Town Council (5-0)

Conservation and Environment Commission

The Commission will review draft recommendations regarding the use of combustion-powered landscape maintenance equipment. The meeting also includes discussions on the CEC strategic agenda and potential joint meetings with other commissions.

• Review of draft recommendations for transitioning from combustion to battery-powered lawn equipment
• Approval of May, June, and July meeting minutes
• Discussion of the CEC strategic agenda and ordinance changes
• Follow-up on joint meetings with Clean Energy and Bike/Pedestrian Commissions

The Conservation and Environment Commission held a special virtual meeting, approving minutes from June and July 2022. The main focus was a continuing discussion on coordinating with the Clean Energy Commission and Bike Ped Commission, including topics like wetlands review, stormwater, drought mitigation, composting, and landscaping regulations. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved June 2022 minutes (Sexton and Daly abstained)
• Approved July 2022 minutes (Sexton abstained)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review a Town Council referral for a mixed-use project by The Arapahoe Group, LLC. The proposal includes 85 multifamily housing units and 3,500 square feet of commercial space.

• Proposed development at 27-43 & 53-65 LaSalle Road, 8 & 12 Arapahoe Road, and 1001 Farmington Avenue
• Demolition of two existing buildings on Arapahoe Road
• Construction of 85 multifamily housing units and 3,500 square feet of new commercial space
• Approval of August 18, 2022 meeting minutes

The Design Review Advisory Committee voted unanimously (5-0) to not recommend approval of a proposed mixed-use development at 27-43 & 53-65 LaSalle Road, 8 & 12 Arapahoe Road and 1001 Farmington Avenue. The project would have demolished two buildings and constructed 85 multifamily units and 3,500 sq ft of commercial space. The committee also approved the August 18, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0).

• Voted 5-0 to not recommend approval of the LaSalle Road mixed-use development
• Approved August 18, 2022 regular meeting minutes (3-0)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will review the CT DEEP Sustainable Materials Management Grant Program and electric vehicle supply equipment. Staff updates for facilities, sustainability, and public works are also scheduled.

• CT DEEP Sustainable Materials Management Grant Program
• Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment
• Material Solution Center

Clean Energy Commission

The Clean Energy Commission will discuss options for a potential merger with the Conservation & Environment and Ped Bike commissions. The meeting also includes updates on air-quality projects at Webster Hill and Duffy elementary schools.

• $20,952 CMAQ grant for EV/EVSE
• Air-quality projects in design at Webster Hill and Duffy elementary schools
• Potential merger of Clean Energy, Conservation & Environment, and Ped Bike commissions
• Drive Electric Week EV Showcase Event on September 25
• FOIA request regarding West Hartford natural gas leaks

The Clean Energy Commission voted 4-0 to support creating a single 'Mega Sustainable WH Commission' (options #1 or #2), with the Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission either included or remaining separate. The commission also approved the May 25, 2022 meeting minutes. No other formal votes were taken; other items were updates or discussions.

• Approved May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted 4-0 to support merging into a Mega Sustainable WH Commission (options #1 or #2)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will meet to review the New Park Avenue Complete Streets Improvements Plans. This review will be conducted with the Town Engineer.

• Review of New Park Avenue Complete Streets Improvements Plans

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission held a special meeting to review 35% design plans for the New Park Avenue Complete Streets project. Members discussed extending bicycle facilities south to New Britain Avenue and the feasibility of a cycle track, but no formal decisions or votes were taken. Town staff agreed to review feedback and report back.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded at the meeting

Historic District Commission

The commission will consider certificates of appropriateness for several property projects. These include a wooden fence installation and various roofing updates.

• Wooden fence at 204 Raymond Rd
• Asphalt reroof and ridge vent installation at 1563 Boulevard
• Flat rubber roof replacement for garage at 1563 Boulevard
• Garage work proposal by American Excellence LLC at 1563 Boulevard

The West Hartford Historic District Commission approved all four Certificate of Appropriateness applications at its August 22, 2022 meeting. The approvals were unanimous (3-0) for a fence replacement at 204 Raymond Road and three projects at 1563 Boulevard. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned at 8:49 p.m.

• Approved fence replacement COA at 204 Raymond Road (unanimous)
• Approved asphalt roof replacement and ridge vent COA at 1563 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved garage rubber roof replacement with incline COA at 1563 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved garage door replacement COA at 1563 Boulevard (unanimous)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee is reviewing a Town Council referral regarding a rezoning application for 99 South Main Street. The proposal seeks to rezone portions of the property and adjacent land to RM-1 to expand and reconfigure parking for an existing apartment building.

• Rezoning 99 South Main Street from R-6 and RM-1 to entirely RM-1
• Rezoning approximately 7,988 s.f. of undeveloped land from R-6 to RM-1
• Parking expansion and reconfiguration for existing apartment building

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will discuss the feasibility study for the Elmwood Community Center. The agenda also includes approval of June 15, 2022 minutes and a July 2022 community development update.

• Elmwood Community Center Feasibility Study
• Approval of June 15, 2022 minutes
• July 2022 Community Development Department Update

The meeting was largely informational, with no substantive decisions or votes taken. The Elmwood Community Center Feasibility Study was presented by Tecton Architects, with a final report expected in November. Staff also provided updates on the Center Infrastructure Project, including ARPA-funded work on LaSalle and Farmington, and other ongoing projects. Minutes from May 18, 2022, were approved.

• Approved minutes of May 18, 2022

Civilian Police Review Board

The Board will review and evaluate three West Hartford Police Department investigation files. One item involves an executive session to discuss confidential medical information.

• Review of WHPD File CC 22-02
• Review of WHPD File CC 22-07
• Review of WHPD File CC 22-06 (Executive Session)
• Approval of June 22, 2022 meeting minutes

The Civilian Police Review Board reviewed and sustained findings in three completed West Hartford Police Department Professional Standards investigations (CC-22-01, CC-22-07, and CC-22-06). One case (CC-22-06) was discussed in executive session. The board also noted one pending case for its next meeting and will begin work on its bylaws.

• Sustained findings of investigation CC 22-02 (unanimous)
• Sustained findings of investigation CC 22-07 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss CC 22-06 (motion by Vice Chair Burke, seconded)
• Sustained findings of investigation CC 22-06 after executive session (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 22, 2022, with a correction to Vice Chair Burke's name (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:18 pm (motion by Chair Morales, seconded)

Human & Community Services Committee

The committee will discuss a feasibility study for the Elmwood Community Center. The agenda also includes staff updates from the Library and Leisure Services departments.

• Elmwood Community Center Feasibility Study
• Library Update
• Leisure Services Update

The committee received an update on the Elmwood Community Center feasibility study from Tecton Architects, including upcoming public events and a project website. No votes or decisions were taken; the June 15 minutes were tabled due to a member's absence. Staff reports covered library and leisure services activities, with discussions on food insecurity partnerships and summer camp demand.

• Tabled approval of June 15, 2022 minutes due to Councilman Cortes's absence

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will review and vote on drafted social media posts presented by a subcommittee. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding potential speakers for Facebook Live.

• Vote on drafted social media posts
• Discussion of potential FB Live speakers
• Approval of July 6, 2022, meeting minutes

Special Services District

The meeting includes a resolution to authorize a parking agreement between the West Hartford Center Special Services District, the Town of West Hartford, and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC. The board will also review minutes from the May 10, 2022, meeting and receive a communication regarding representation for owners of taxable commercial land use property.

• Resolution authorizing a parking agreement among West Hartford Center SSD, the Town of West Hartford, and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC
• Approval of May 10, 2022, meeting minutes
• Communication regarding representation for owners of taxable commercial land use property within the district

The West Hartford Center Special Services District approved a resolution authorizing a parking agreement among the district, the Town of West Hartford, and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC. The vote was 9-2, with Commissioners Johnson and Spivak opposed. The minutes include a letter from Blue Back Capital Partners expressing concerns about the agreement's impact on parking availability.

• Approved parking agreement with Farmington Avenue Acquisitions (9-2)
• Approved minutes of 05-10-2022 meeting (11-0)
• Received communication regarding appointment of alternate member for commercial property owners (11-0)

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is reviewing a zone change application for a mixed-use development. This hearing is expected to be continued to September 13, 2022, so no public testimony will be taken on August 16.

• Zone change application by The Arapahoe Group, LLC
• Proposed mixed-use development at Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue
• Request for Special Development District designation

The Town Council held a public hearing on August 16, 2022, but no testimony was taken. The applicant agreed to a continuance to September 13, 2022, to allow time for technical review and referrals. No substantive decisions were made.

• Continued public hearing on Arapahoe Group rezoning application to September 13, 2022

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is reviewing a rezoning and Special Development District application for 99 South Main Street. This hearing is expected to be continued to September 28, 2022, and no public testimony will be taken on August 16.

• Rezoning and SDD application for 99 South Main Street by Northbrook Place, LLC & Elite Apartments, LLC

The Town Council held a public hearing but took no testimony or decisions. The applicant agreed to continue the hearing to September 28, 2022 at 7:00 PM to allow time for technical review and referrals. The rezoning and Special Development District application for 99 South Main Street was postponed.

• Continued public hearing for 99 South Main St rezoning to Sept 28, 2022 (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will consider several rezoning applications for mixed-use and multi-family residential developments. The agenda also includes an appropriation of up to $495,000 for tennis court replacements at Conard and Hall High Schools. Additionally, the council will review easements for the Fern Street Bridge Replacement Project.

• $495,000 appropriation for Conard and Hall High School tennis courts
• Rezoning for mixed-use development at Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue
• Rezoning for multi-family residential at 950 Trout Brook Drive and 125 Kingswood Road
• Easements to support the Fern Street Bridge Replacement Project
• Rezoning application for 99 South Main Street

The West Hartford Town Council voted unanimously to postpone two rezoning applications (Arapahoe Group and Northbrook Place) to future meetings, and referred a proposed multi-family development at 950 Trout Brook Drive to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission for a public hearing. The council also adopted a parking agreement with the West Hartford Center Special Services District and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC, and set a public hearing for a $495,000 bond appropriation to replace tennis courts at Conard and Hall High Schools.

• Postponed Arapahoe Group rezoning application to September 13, 2022 (9-0)
• Postponed Northbrook Place rezoning application to September 28, 2022 (9-0)
• Referred 950 Trout Brook Drive rezoning to TPZ and DRAC, set public hearing for October 12, 2022 (9-0)
• Set public hearing for $495,000 tennis court replacement bond for September 13, 2022 (9-0)
• Adopted parking agreement with West Hartford Center Special Services District and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC (9-0)
• Referred Fern Street Bridge easements to TPZ (9-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including appointments and grant appropriations (9-0)

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider an ordinance to fund tennis court replacements at Conard and Hall High Schools. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding various grants and equipment purchases for the Town Clerk's Office. Members will also receive an update on ARPA funding status.

• Tennis court replacements at Conard and Hall High Schools up to $495,000
• Appropriation of unexpended Assistance to Firefighters Grant funds
• Appropriation of Historic Documents Preservation Grant
• Additional equipment funds for the Office of the Town Clerk
• Update on current ARPA funding status

The Finance and Administration Committee approved an ordinance to appropriate up to $495,000 for replacing tennis courts at Conard and Hall High Schools, funded by state bond proceeds. The committee also advanced resolutions to carry forward $268,000 in unspent firefighter grant funds, accept a $7,500 historic documents preservation grant, and allocate additional funds for Town Clerk equipment. Several ARPA-funded projects were discussed, including a Wayfinding signage project and funding for an Assistant Director of Social Services and a mobile command vehicle shortfall.

• Approved ordinance for $495,000 in bonds for Conard and Hall High School tennis court replacements
• Approved resolution to carry forward $268,000 in unspent Assistance to Firefighters Grant funds
• Approved resolution appropriating $7,500 historic documents preservation grant from State Library
• Approved resolution appropriating additional funds for Town Clerk printing equipment
• Approved resolution closing completed capital projects in the Capital Projects Fund
• Advanced ARPA-funded Wayfinding signage project to Town Council for consideration
• Moved to place on Council agenda funding for Assistant Director of Social Services ($60,400) and mobile command vehicle shortfall ($40,000) using ARPA funds

General

The Special Plan Implementation Sub-Committee will discuss tools and strategies to create affordable housing. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding plan organization and format.

• Discussion of tools and strategies to create affordable housing
• Discussion of plan organization and format

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission is reviewing several new applications, including a 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive. Public hearings are also scheduled for cemetery expansions and school facility upgrades. The meeting includes discussions on inland wetlands permits and housing analysis updates.

• Proposed 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive
• Creation of a temporary dog park at 100 Mayflower Street
• Development of 360 grave sites at Fairview Cemetery
• Installation of a new scoreboard at Hall High School
• Temporary relocation of the Children’s Museum to 160 Mohegan Drive

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved several special use permits, including 360 new grave sites at Fairview Cemetery (4-0), a temporary Children's Museum relocation to Emanuel Synagogue (4-0), a temporary athletic lights permit for Kingswood Oxford School (5-0), and a new scoreboard at Hall High School (5-0). The commission also scheduled public hearings for September on multiple applications, including a new dog park at 100 Mayflower Street and a 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive. An inland wetlands permit for a retaining wall and drainage improvements at 11 Midlands was conditionally approved (5-0).

• Approved 360 grave sites at Fairview Cemetery (4-0)
• Approved temporary Children's Museum relocation to Emanuel Synagogue (4-0)
• Approved temporary athletic lights for Kingswood Oxford School football game (5-0)
• Approved new scoreboard at Hall High School softball field (5-0)
• Conditionally approved inland wetlands permit for retaining wall at 11 Midlands (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearings for September 7 on dog park, shooting range lock-back, Art League lighting, greenhouse, and wetlands map amendment
• Tabled discussion on 172-unit multifamily development at 950 Trout Brook Drive to September 7
• Continued public hearing on single-family home at 2 Ferncliff Drive to September 7

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will conduct study sessions regarding proposed developments at 950 Trout Brook Drive, 52-54 North Main Street, and 25 Brixton Street. These sessions involve reviewing design concepts and site plans for residential and waste center redevelopments. The committee will also approve minutes from June meetings.

• 950 Trout Brook Drive: Study session for a new Special Development District application for multi-family residential use
• 52-54 North Main Street: Study session for a site plan application to construct a multifamily apartment building
• 25 Brixton Street: Study session for landfill closure and redevelopment of the waste and recycling center

General

The Affordable Housing Advisory Group will review a presentation regarding the West Hartford Housing Analysis and Housing Needs Assessment. The group will also address scheduling a Data Collection and Analysis Subcommittee meeting for August.

• Presentation on West Hartford Housing Analysis and Housing Needs Assessment by Donald J. Poland, PhD
• Scheduling of the Data Collection and Analysis Subcommittee meeting for August

Conservation and Environment Commission

The commission will continue a joint meeting to discuss sustainability and various commissions. The agenda also includes reviewing gas-powered lawn equipment recommendations from Greenwich, CT, and discussing pollinator pathways.

• Discussion of a potential new Sustainability Commission structure
• Review of gas-powered lawn equipment recommendations from Greenwich, CT
• Discussion regarding Pollinator Pathways
• Approval of June 27, 2022 minutes

The Conservation and Environment Commission held a joint discussion with the Clean Energy and Pedestrian and Bicycle Commissions about coordinating efforts and potentially forming a new consolidated sustainability commission. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily a working session to explore the idea. The commission tabled approval of its minutes to a future meeting.

• Tabled approval of meeting minutes to forthcoming meeting
• Held joint discussion with Clean Energy and Pedestrian and Bicycle Commissions on sustainability coordination

Library Board

The board will review June administrative and budget reports, including total expenditures of $3,136,236.27 for the fiscal year to date. The meeting includes approval of minutes from the June 27, 2022, meeting. The director's report also covers library statistics and updates on the Elmwood Community Center project.

• Review of June budget expenditures totaling $3,136,236.27
• Update on Elmwood Community Center & Library Advisory Committee
• 12% increase in total circulation compared to June 2021
• Removal of security gates at Noah Webster library
• Recruitment for Local History Specialist and Studio 20 South Coordinator

The West Hartford Public Library Board unanimously approved a schedule change closing all three branches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 8, 2022, for staff professional development. The board also approved the consent agenda, including June meeting minutes and reports, and added an agenda item to discuss the schedule change. No public comments were made, and the board entered executive session for a personnel matter.

• Approved consent agenda including June 27, 2022 minutes and reports (unanimous)
• Approved adding agenda item on staff development schedule (unanimous)
• Approved schedule change for staff professional development on Sept. 8, closing branches 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for personnel matter (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Commission will consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing 69 windows at 52 West Hill Dr. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the June 27, 2022, regular meeting.

• Window replacement at 52 West Hill Dr
• Approval of June 27, 2022, meeting minutes

The West Hartford Library Board approved a schedule change closing all three branches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 8, 2022, for staff professional development. The board also approved the consent agenda, including June meeting minutes and reports, and added an agenda item for the schedule change. No public comment was received.

• Approved consent agenda including June 27, 2022 minutes and reports (unanimous)
• Approved adding agenda item for staff development schedule change (unanimous)
• Approved closing all library branches 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sept 8, 2022 for staff training (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for personnel matter at 7:05 p.m. (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review petitions for side yard variances at 96-98 South Quaker Lane and 142-144 Brace Road. The meeting also includes a request for a permit fee waiver related to South Quaker Lane.

• Variance for air compressors and generator at 96-98 South Quaker Lane
• Variance for a second-floor deck at 142-144 Brace Road
• Permit fee waiver request for 96-98 South Quaker Lane

Commission on the Arts

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts will review the application process for public art displays at Town Hall. The meeting includes discussions regarding arts and culture set-asides for new developments and follow-up on issues involving murals and advertising.

• Review of Town Hall public art criteria and display policy
• Discussion of arts and culture set-asides from new development applications
• Follow-up on murals on private property and decorative cylindrical advertising
• Exploration of town promotional signage and Unity Green banners

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council is reviewing several rezoning applications and budget amendments. The agenda includes resolutions regarding grant acceptance and a collective bargaining agreement with firefighters. The Council will also address property purchases and street renaming.

• Rezoning for 99 South Main Street
• Rezoning for Arapahoe Road, LaSalle Road, and Farmington Avenue
• Purchase of 705 Oakwood Avenue and 12 Brixton Street
• Collective bargaining agreement with Local 1241 IAFF
• Renaming Sycamore Lane to Peleg Nott Lane

The West Hartford Town Council approved a collective bargaining agreement with Local 1241 International Association of Firefighters for 2022-2025, authorized the purchase of 705 Oakwood Avenue and 12 Brixton Street, and authorized settling pending litigation. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved collective bargaining agreement with Local 1241 firefighters (7-0)
• Authorized contract to purchase 705 Oakwood Avenue and 12 Brixton Street (7-0)
• Authorized Corporation Counsel to settle pending litigation (7-0)
• Referred rezoning for 99 South Main Street to TPZ/DRAC with public hearing Aug 16 (7-0)
• Referred rezoning for Arapahoe Road/LaSalle Road/Farmington Ave to TPZ/DRAC with public hearing Aug 16 (7-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including budget amendments and grants (7-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will discuss updates on the Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District and engineering projects. The meeting also includes a review of the New Park Avenue “Walk Audit” and Complete Streets site plan.

• Status of proposed Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District
• New Park Avenue “Walk Audit”
• New Park Avenue Complete Streets site plan review
• Update on PBC vacancy and August recess
• Summary of Sustainability Advisory Group joint meeting

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission discussed several items, including support for a Transit-Oriented Development zoning district, which was approved by the Town Council without objection. The commission deferred approval of the previous meeting's minutes and agreed to invite a town staff member to address questions about a proposed umbrella organization. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy items.

• Deferred approval of June 13 meeting minutes
• Agreed to invite town staff member to upcoming meeting
• Approved August recess (no meeting)
• Forwarded names of 4 candidates for commission vacancies to town clerk
• Discussed potential modifications to New Park Avenue Complete Streets site plan; Ed to draft letter to Town Engineer

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The commission will hold public hearings regarding a landfill redevelopment and new parking at the University of Saint Joseph. Other items include cemetery expansion and temporary museum relocation. A presentation on affordable housing economics is also scheduled.

• Redevelopment of waste and recycling center at 25 Brixton Street
• New 74-space gravel parking area at University of Saint Joseph
• Development of 360 grave sites at Fairview Cemetery
• Temporary relocation of the Children’s Museum to 160 Mohegan Drive
• Installation of a new scoreboard at Hall High School

The West Hartford Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved an amendment to the Official Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Map for 11 Midlands, conditionally approved wetland permits for 25 Brixton Street and 1678 Asylum Avenue, and approved a special use permit for a 74-space gravel parking lot at the University of Saint Joseph. The commission continued the special use permit for Fairview Cemetery's 360 grave sites to August 8, 2022, and scheduled several other public hearings for that date.

• Approved map amendment to Official Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Map for 11 Midlands (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for landfill closure and waste center redevelopment at 25 Brixton Street (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for gravel parking area at 1678 Asylum Avenue (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for 74-space gravel parking lot at University of Saint Joseph (5-0)
• Continued special use permit for 360 grave sites at Fairview Cemetery to August 8, 2022 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearings for August 8, 2022: 25 Flagg Road, 160 Mohegan Drive, 170 Kingswood Road, 975 North Main Street (5-0 each)
• Opened and continued public hearing for 2 Ferncliff Drive to August 8, 2022 (5-0)

Human Rights Commission

The Commission will discuss the criteria and process for posting public statements. The meeting also includes an announcement regarding Commissioner Sarah Raskin’s revised resignation date.

• Approval of minutes from April 6 and June 1, 2022
• Discussion on the timing and content of commission statements
• Announcement of Commissioner Sarah Raskin’s revised resignation date

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission held a special meeting to clarify rules on public statements and social media posts. It created a social media subcommittee, adopted guidelines for posts, and scheduled a special meeting to review drafted posts. The commission also accepted April and June 2022 meeting minutes.

• Approved April 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved June 2022 meeting minutes (voice vote, 1 abstention)
• Created social media subcommittee with Ted Mancini and Aurora Melita as members
• Adopted social media guidelines for the commission
• Scheduled special meeting before August to discuss social media posts (voice vote)

General

The Affordable Housing Advisory Group will hear a presentation by consultant Donal J. Poland regarding housing markets and affordable housing economics. The meeting also includes a summary of recent community outreach efforts.

• Presentation on housing market economics and financial feasibility by Donal J. Poland, PhD
• Summary of outreach at West Hartford Community Job and Resource Fair
• Summary of outreach at Celebrate! West Hartford
• Introduction of Acting Town Manager Rick Ledwith

Town Council

The Council will consider a resolution to appoint Richard C. Ledwith as Town Manager. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding American Rescue Plan Act funds and Community Development Block Grant budget amendments.

• Appointment of Richard C. Ledwith as Town Manager
• Resolution amending the FY 2022-2023 Community Development Block Grant budget
• Resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act grant funds
• Resolution approving the assignment of real estate tax liens

The Town Council unanimously appointed Richard C. Ledwith as Town Manager, with Councilor Fay joining by phone for the vote. The council also approved the assignment of real estate tax liens and the appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act grant funds, both by 6-0 votes. Several items were approved on the consent calendar, including budget amendments and committee minutes.

• Appointed Richard C. Ledwith as Town Manager (7-0)
• Approved assignment of real estate tax liens (6-0)
• Appropriated American Rescue Plan Act grant funds (6-0)
• Approved consent calendar items including CDBG budget amendment and committee minutes (6-0)

Library Board

The West Hartford Public Library Board will meet to review April administrative and budget reports. The agenda also includes discussions on digital equity trends and the Gertrude Blanks Storytelling Event.

• Review of April Library Administrative and Budget reports
• Discussion on Digital Equity trends
• Update on Gertrude Blanks Storytelling Event
• Establishment of summer meeting calendar

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities will review minutes from the May 9, 2022 meeting and receive staff reports. The agenda includes updates on the ECC Advisory Commission and CERT team. Members will also discuss a letter supporting the use of grants to promote accessibility in all West Hartford parks.

• Review and Approval of Minutes from May 9, 2022 meeting
• Staff Report from Town ADA Coordinator
• ECC Advisory Commission Update
• CERT team update
• Letter supporting grants for park accessibility

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities approved the May 9, 2022 minutes with additions. They reviewed ongoing ADA-compliant upgrades to Eisenhower Pool, Kennedy Park Pool House, and Wolcott Park restrooms, all in design or planning stages. A guest speaker, Samantha Innis, presented on her role as a social worker with the West Hartford Police Department, required by the Police Accountability Act. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting focused on updates and discussion.

• Approved May 9, 2022 minutes with additions (unanimous)
• Reviewed Eisenhower Pool ADA upgrade design, construction starting late summer 2022
• Reviewed Kennedy Park Pool House ADA upgrade design, construction starting late summer 2022
• Reviewed Wolcott Park restroom replacement plan, design contract to be awarded shortly
• Discussed upcoming ADA bridge projects at Spicebush Swamp and Miracle League parking lot
• Noted grant opportunity from Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities

Conservation and Environment Commission

The Conservation and Environment Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Pedestrian & Bicycle and Clean Energy Commissions. The agenda also includes reviews of gas-powered lawn equipment recommendations from Greenwich, CT, and pollinator pathways.

• Approval of May 23, 2022 minutes
• Review of gas powered lawn equipment recommendations from Greenwich, CT
• Discussion regarding Pollinator Pathways
• Joint meeting to discuss sustainability objectives and the Sustainable Advisory Group

The Conservation and Environment Commission met jointly with the Clean Energy and Pedestrian and Bicycle Commissions to discuss coordination and potential reorganization. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational and exploratory. The commission tabled approval of its minutes to a future meeting.

• Tabled approval of minutes to forthcoming meeting
• Held joint discussion with Clean Energy and Pedestrian and Bicycle Commissions on coordination (no action taken)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider certificates of appropriateness for various residential projects. These include requests for new fences, a solar array, and an entrance portico. The commission will also approve minutes from the May 23, 2022 meeting.

• Front gable dormer and portico at 1617 Boulevard
• New wooden fence at 1579 Boulevard
• Roof-mounted solar array at 1637 Boulevard
• New wooden picket fence at 1593 Boulevard
• Replacement cedar fence at 204 Raymond Road

The West Hartford Historic District Commission unanimously approved three Certificates of Appropriateness for renovations at 1617, 1579, and 1593 Boulevard, including a front entrance remodel and two fence installations. The commission also approved the February 28, 2022 meeting minutes and discussed recruiting a new commissioner.

• Approved COA for front entrance renovation at 1617 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved COA for 6' stockade fence at 1579 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved COA for 3' picket fence at 1593 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved February 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold study sessions regarding proposed redevelopments at 1051-1061 New Britain Avenue and 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue. The New Britain Avenue proposal includes a five-story mixed-use building. The Farmington Avenue proposal involves replacing a commercial building with a residential building.

• Proposed five-story mixed-use building at 1051-1061 New Britain Avenue
• Proposed residential redevelopment at 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue
• Approval of June 16, 2022 meeting minutes

The Design Review Advisory Committee held study sessions for two proposed redevelopments but took no formal votes. For 1051-1061 New Britain Avenue, a five-story mixed-use building was discussed and received positive feedback. For 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue, the committee encouraged the owners to submit a formal application after reviewing design changes. No decisions were made.

• No formal action taken on 1051-1061 New Britain Avenue study session
• No formal action taken on 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue study session
• Encouraged 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue owners to proceed with formal application
• Unanimously agreed garage screening unnecessary for 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue

Civilian Police Review Board

The Civilian Police Review Board will review and evaluate two police department investigation files. The board will also approve the minutes from the May 18, 2022 meeting.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department File CC 22-01
• Review of West Hartford Police Department File CC 22-03
• Approval of May 18, 2022 meeting minutes

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will review reports on social services, senior transportation, and the senior job bank. It will also hear a presentation regarding 2022 state legislation affecting West Hartford seniors.

• Presentation on 2022 new legislation affecting seniors by State Representative Kate Farrar
• West Hartford Social Services report
• Seniors Job Bank update
• Senior transportation discussion
• Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee report

The West Hartford Senior Citizens' Advisory Commission met on June 21, 2022, and approved the May minutes. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting featured reports from staff and a presentation by State Representative Kate Farrar on recent state legislation affecting seniors. The commission discussed potential future action on housing and other topics, with no concrete outcomes.

• Approved May 17, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• No other formal decisions or votes recorded

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will discuss follow-up items including murals on private property and arts and culture set asides from new development applications. Members will also review the application process for public art displays at Town Hall.

• Review of West Hartford Town Hall Public Display Committee policy
• Discussion of arts and culture set asides from new development applications
• Follow-up on murals on private property
• Future development of St. Brigid School
• Exploration of town promotional signage/Unity Green banners

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold a study session regarding a Special Development District amendment application for Corporate Center West. The proposal includes office building expansion and a new restaurant with a drive-through. The session also involves reviewing updated civil and architectural plans.

• Study session for 433-445 South Main Street
• Proposed office building expansion at Corporate Center West
• New restaurant building with drive-through proposal
• Review of updated civil and architectural plans

The Design Review Advisory Committee held a study session for a proposed Special Development District amendment at 433-445 South Main Street, covering an office expansion, a new Starbucks with drive-through, signage, parking, and landscaping. The committee unanimously supported advancing the Starbucks portion as a separate application, while continuing to review other components. Minutes from the May 19, 2022 special meeting were approved 4-0.

• Unanimously supported advancing Starbucks portion as separate application
• Approved May 19, 2022 special meeting minutes (4-0)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The West Hartford Public Works, Facilities & Sustainability Committee will discuss vegetation management resiliency and conduct a tour of the Brixton Street Complex. The meeting also includes staff updates for the public works, facilities, and sustainability departments.

• Approval of May 5, 2022 minutes
• West Hartford Vegetation Management Resiliency discussion
• Tour of the Brixton Street Complex
• Public Works, Facilities, and Sustainability staff updates

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will review the final recommendations for the North Main Street Road Diet Study, Phase 2. Staff will also provide updates on community and economic development.

• North Main Street Road Diet Study, Phase 2 Final Recommendations
• Approval of May 18, 2022 minutes
• Community Development Update
• Economic Development Update

The committee approved the May 18, 2022 meeting minutes and decided to permanently maintain the North Main Street road diet, following a trial that reduced crashes and speeds and improved pedestrian and bicyclist access. The decision includes future improvements such as widening North Main Street south of Fern Street to Loomis for bike lanes, adding bike lane markings and signs, and modifying signal phasing at two intersections. Staff reports covered drainage study updates, Trout Brook Trail Phase 5 completion and Phase 6 plans, and an economic development quarterly report with declining vacancy rates.

• Approved May 18, 2022 meeting minutes
• Maintained North Main Street road diet permanently
• Planned widening of North Main Street south of Fern Street to Loomis for 5-foot bike lanes (est. $300,000, next fiscal year)
• Planned delineation of bike lanes with 6-inch white edge lines and signs along entire road diet (this year)
• Planned signal phasing modification at North Main and Fern for eastbound protected left turn (2023)
• Planned signal phasing modification at Trout Brook and Fern for eastbound and westbound left turns (2023)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The West Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals will review two petitions regarding land use. The board will consider a variance for a shed at 1 Scarsdale Road and a renewal for a career counseling office at 22 Montclair Drive. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from February, April, and May 2022.

• Variance request for an 8’ x 10’ shed at 1 Scarsdale Road
• Special Exception renewal for a career counseling office at 22 Montclair Drive
• Approval of minutes from February 16, April 20, and May 18, 2022

Public Hearing

The Town Council is holding a public hearing for a presentation regarding an ordinance to establish a Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District. The meeting includes time for questions and comments from councilors and members of the public.

• Ordinance Establishing the Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District

The Town Council held a public hearing on a proposed ordinance establishing a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Zoning District near the Elmwood and Flatbush CTfastrak stations. The ordinance would allow higher-density mixed-use development, reduce parking requirements, and include incentives for affordable housing and sustainability. No vote was taken; the hearing was closed after public comment.

• Public hearing opened and closed on TOD zoning ordinance (no vote taken)
• Received referral letters from CRCOG and Town Planning and Zoning Commission recommending approval
• Heard public comment from Elmwood Business Association, Rick Liftig, Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission, and Emily Oumano

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing to review a resolution. The session includes a presentation on programs eligible for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program.

• Resolution Approving Programs Eligible for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on a resolution approving programs eligible for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program. Director Helen Rubino-Turco presented the resolution, and no public comments were made. The hearing was adjourned without a vote or decision.

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss an ordinance establishing a Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District. The agenda also includes resolutions for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program and grants for new athletic facilities at Hall and Conard High Schools.

• Ordinance Establishing the Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District
• Urban Development Project Grant for Hall and Conard High School athletic facilities
• Renaming of Sycamore Lane to Peleg Nott Lane
• Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program resolution

The Town Council adopted the Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District ordinance, approved programs for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit, and accepted an Urban Development Project Grant for new athletic facilities at Hall and Conard High Schools. A street renaming request was postponed to July 14, 2022. All votes were unanimous (9-0).

• Adopted Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District ordinance (9-0)
• Approved Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit programs (9-0)
• Accepted Urban Development Project Grant for Hall and Conard High School athletic facilities (9-0)
• Postponed renaming of Sycamore Lane to Peleg Nott Lane to July 14, 2022 (9-0)

Pension Board

The Pension Board will discuss and vote on a motion to implement the MARC pension administration system. The meeting also includes a review of the 2022 meeting schedule and potential fee adjustments for Milliman actuarial services.

• Motion to approve implementation of MARC pension administration system
• $48,000 one-time implementation fee for MARC Option 2
• Review of the 2022 Pension Board meeting schedule

The West Hartford Pension Board voted unanimously to adopt Option 1 of the MARC pension administration system, which covers most calculations but not COLAs, employee deaths, or disability retirements. The decision follows discussion of costs and benefits, including a $36,000 implementation fee and $2,500 monthly maintenance. The board also reviewed the 2022 meeting schedule and noted the remaining meetings are set for September 19, October 17, and November 14.

• Approved MARC pension administration system Option 1 (unanimous)
• Noted remaining 2022 meetings: September 19, October 17, November 14

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider a resolution for a tax lien assignment at 18B Deer Run and the appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act funds. Staff will also provide updates on small business recovery grants and projected operating results through March 31, 2022.

• Tax Lien Assignment Agreement for 18B Deer Run
• Appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds
• Small Business and Non-Profit Recovery Grant Review
• Projected operating results as of March 31, 2022

The Finance & Administration Committee approved the minutes from May 9, 2022, and passed resolutions authorizing the Town Manager to sign a tax lien assignment agreement for 18B Deer Run and appropriating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funds. The committee also reviewed the current ARPA funding status, a financial services update, and the Small Business and Non-Profit Recovery Grant program. No votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved minutes of May 9, 2022
• Approved resolution authorizing Town Manager to sign tax lien assignment for 18B Deer Run
• Approved resolution appropriating ARPA grant funds

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The Commission will discuss updates on 2022 road reconstruction, the Trout Brook Trail, and New Park Avenue Complete Streets. Members will also review a draft letter to the Town Council regarding proposed Transit-Oriented Development Zoning.

• 2022 road reconstruction and resurfacing projects update
• Trout Brook Trail update
• New Park Avenue Complete Streets project update
• Review of draft letter regarding Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District
• Bicycle Network Map and Crosswalk Map revisions

The commission approved a letter to the Town Council supporting the proposed Transit Oriented Development (TOD) ordinance, which aims to create walkable neighborhoods near CTfastrak stations. They also discussed bike lane projects, crosswalk improvements, and the New Park Avenue complete streets plan, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved letter to Town Council supporting TOD ordinance (motion by Ed, seconded, approved)
• Approved last month's meeting minutes (motion by Colin, second by Ken, accepted)

Board of Assessors

The West Hartford Board of Assessors will meet to select a new Board Chair. The agenda also includes reviews of personal and real property assessments for several organizations and group homes.

• Selection of a Board of Assessors Chair
• Property assessments for Hebrew Home and Hospital
• Assessments for CT Association of Public School Superintendents Inc.
• Real property reviews for RMS Development Inc. group homes
• Real property reviews for CIL Realty Incorporated and Harc, Inc.

The Board of Assessors approved tax-exempt status for three organizations and tabled two requests pending further information. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved tax-exempt status for Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (unanimous)
• Approved personal property tax exemption for Hebrew Home and Hospital Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved personal property tax exemption for Harc Inc. (unanimous)
• Tabled tax exemption for RMS Development Inc. (5 parcels) pending further info (unanimous)
• Tabled tax exemption for CIL Realty Incorporated pending further info (unanimous)

Prevention Council

The West Hartford Prevention Council met to approve minutes and receive standing reports from several departments. The council also noted the final passage of three bills regarding children's mental health.

• Passage of three bills targeting children’s mental health
• Standing reports from Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge), and Prevention Partnership Coalition

The West Hartford Prevention Council met on June 9, 2022, and approved the minutes from the March 10 meeting. They discussed a potential three percent tax on marijuana sales that could fund prevention efforts, and a proposal to hire a full-time Prevention Coordinator. The council reviewed new state bills targeting children's mental health and heard reports on social services, police, schools, and prevention programs. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes of March 10 meeting (moved by Bob Macca, seconded by Carl Shields)
• Discussed potential funding from 3% marijuana sales tax for prevention programs
• Discussed proposal to hire full-time Prevention Coordinator
• Reviewed state bills on children's mental health and their potential impact on West Hartford schools

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will review permit applications for cemetery expansion, wetland-related residential work, and university parking improvements. Public hearings are scheduled for street renaming, park lighting amendments, and school facility upgrades. The commission also received a referral regarding a new Transit-Oriented Development zoning district.

• Proposed renaming of Sycamore Lane to Peleg Nott Lane
• Amendment for athletic field lighting at Wolcott Park
• New greenhouse and high ropes course at Renbrook School
• Development of 360 grave sites at Fairview Cemetery
• Redevelopment of the waste and recycling center at 25 Brixton Street

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved the honorary renaming of Sycamore Lane to Peleg Nott Lane (3-1), approved a special use permit for athletic field lighting at Wolcott Park with a 10 PM curfew (5-0), and approved a special use permit for a greenhouse and high ropes course at Renbrook School (5-0). The commission also scheduled public hearings for July 6 on several applications, including a cemetery expansion, a landfill closure, and a new parking area at the University of Saint Joseph. A proposed Transit-Oriented Development zoning district was recommended for approval.

• Approved street renaming of Sycamore Lane to Peleg Nott Lane (3-1)
• Approved special use permit for Wolcott Park baseball field lighting with 10 PM curfew (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for Renbrook School greenhouse and high ropes course (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Fairview Cemetery 360 grave sites expansion (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 25 Brixton Street landfill closure and recycling center redevelopment (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for University of Saint Joseph gravel parking area (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 2 Ferncliff Drive new single-family home (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Transit-Oriented Development zoning district (5-0)

Public Safety Committee

The committee is scheduled to review the Civilian Police Review Board Annual Report and approve minutes from May 4, 2022. The agenda also includes updates from the Fire and Police departments.

• Civilian Police Review Board Annual Report
• Approval of May 4, 2022 minutes
• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

The West Hartford Public Safety Committee met virtually on June 1, 2022, and approved the minutes from the May 4, 2022 meeting unanimously. The committee received the first annual report from the Civilian Police Review Board and updates from the Fire and Police Departments. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved May 4, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will review May 2021 meeting minutes and discuss upcoming community topics. The agenda includes updates on Pride Month, Juneteenth, and the selection of officers.

• Approval of May 5, 2021 meeting minutes
• Town of Compassion calendar and awards update
• WH Pride Month discussion
• WH Juneteenth discussion
• Officer selection

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission met on June 1, 2022, but lacked a quorum (only 3 of 6 members present), so no votes were taken and minutes from the April 6 meeting were not approved. The commission discussed future agenda items, including potential speakers for September, Pride Month activities, and a request for funding from the Town Manager. No formal decisions were made.

• No quorum; minutes of April 6, 2022 not approved
• No votes taken on any issues
• Tabled discussions on reparations and SROs for September meeting
• Agreed to consider joint meetings with Affordable Housing Committee and Civilian Police Review Board in September

Fair Rent Commission

The West Hartford Fair Rent Commission will review administrative hearing guidelines and address Case #2022-06, Sales v. Brookstone Homes CT LLC. The commission will also approve minutes from the April 28, 2022 meeting.

• Case #2022-06: Sales v. Brookstone Homes CT LLC
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines
• Approval of April 28, 2022 minutes

The Commission held a hearing on Case #2202-06 Sales v. Brookstone Homes LLC and voted 3-2 to set the rent at $1,250 per month for the first six months starting June 1, 2022, then $1,350 per month thereafter, and to refer the matter to the West Hartford Bloomfield Public Health Department. An earlier motion to set rent at $1,650 failed 3-2, and a motion to set rent at $1,330 with a lease requirement was reconsidered after counsel noted it exceeded the Commission's scope. The meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Set rent at $1,250/month for 6 months, then $1,350/month, with referral to health department (3-2)
• Rejected motion to set rent at $1,650/month (3-2)
• Reconsidered and withdrew motion requiring lease agreement

Clean Energy Commission

The commission is reviewing energy budget updates for the Board of Education and Town-USF. The meeting also covers ongoing elementary school air-quality projects and a proposed town sustainability website.

• $3M annual funding for elementary school air-quality projects over 15 years
• $20,952 CMAQ grant for EV/EVSE
• Energy budget updates for Board of Education and Town-USF
• Proposed town sustainability website

The Clean Energy Commission discussed and agreed to focus its Celebrate West Hartford booth (#404) on the HeatSmart program, with volunteers and promotional materials to be arranged. The commission also reviewed the town's utility budget, which is projected to be on budget despite higher energy use and record natural gas prices, and discussed ongoing projects including school air-quality upgrades, EV charging infrastructure, and a new sustainability webpage.

• Approved April 27, 2022 meeting minutes
• Agreed to focus Celebrate WH booth #404 on HeatSmart program
• Discussed and supported town's use of solar PPAs and virtual net metering
• Reviewed utility budget; projected to be on budget for FY22
• Discussed school air-quality projects; contractors selected for Duffy and Web Hill
• Discussed EV/EVSE grant and potential first town EV
• Discussed joint meeting with other commissions on June 27
• Discussed new sustainability webpage and content development

General

The sub-committee is continuing a review of West Hartford Town Code sections 5-32 through 5-39. The discussion focuses on proposing language updates for the Commission's mission statement.

• Review of Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, Sections 5-32 through 5-39
• Proposal of language updates for the Commission mission statement

The West Hartford Senior Citizens Advisory Commission sub-committee met to continue reviewing Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, Sections 5-32 through 5-39, which pertain to the commission and its mission statement. The sub-committee discussed proposing language and other updates to be reported at a future 2022 SCAC meeting and to the Town Administrative Liaison. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned.

• Continued review of Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, Sec. 5-32 to 5-39
• Discussed proposing language updates for future SCAC report

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis. The meeting includes a presentation on the ordinance and a period for questions from councilors and the public.

• Presentation on Ordinance Regulating Adult-Use Cannabis

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on a proposed ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis. The ordinance would allow retail sales in commercial zones and production in industrial zones, with a 500-foot buffer from schools, parks, and libraries. No members of the public spoke, and no vote was taken; the hearing was informational only.

• Public hearing opened and closed on adult-use cannabis ordinance
• No public comments received
• No vote taken on ordinance

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hear a presentation regarding an application by Arhaus, Inc. The proposal seeks to amend Special Development District #12 to allow for exterior architectural, signage, and site improvements at 1500/1502 New Britain Avenue.

• Amendment of Special Development District #12 for exterior architectural and site improvements
• New signage and site changes for Arhaus furniture store at Westfarms Mall

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on May 24, 2022, for an application by Arhaus, Inc. to amend Special Development District SDD Number 12 for exterior signage and site improvements at Westfarms Mall. No vote was taken; the hearing was closed after presentations and discussion. The application is pending council action.

• Public hearing opened and closed for Arhaus application (no vote taken)
• Application seeks SDD 12 amendment for exterior signage and site improvements
• No public comments received on the application
• Planning Department, Engineering, Health District, Public Works, Fire Marshal, and Police Department all reported no issues
• Town Plan and Zoning Commission recommended approval on May 2, 2022
• Design Review Advisory Committee recommended approval on April 21, 2022
• Capitol Region Council of Governments found no conflict with regional plans

Town Council

The Council will consider an application to amend the Special Development District for a new Arhaus furniture store at Westfarms Mall. The agenda also includes discussions regarding cannabis regulations and motor vehicle tax levies.

• Application to amend SDD #12 for exterior improvements at Westfarms Mall
• Ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis
• Resolution reducing the tax levy on motor vehicles from October 1, 2021
• Appropriation of historic document preservation funds to the Town Clerk
• Appointment of Philip Orzech to the Board of Assessors

The Town Council adopted an ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis establishments, including a temporary cap on retailers and micro-cultivators until June 30, 2024. The council also approved a special development district amendment for an Arhaus store at Westfarms Mall, reduced the motor vehicle tax levy, accepted a nuclear safety grant, and authorized settlement of a claim against 415-425 Prospect LLC.

• Adopted adult-use cannabis ordinance with temporary density cap (7-2)
• Approved SDD #12 amendment for Arhaus store at Westfarms Mall (9-0)
• Reduced motor vehicle tax levy on October 1, 2021 assessment list (9-0)
• Accepted $59,761 Nuclear Safety Emergency Program grant for equipment (9-0)
• Authorized Corporation Counsel to settle claim against 415-425 Prospect LLC (8-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes and appointments (9-0)

General

The Affordable Housing Advisory Group will review a summary report of all outreach efforts to date. Members will also discuss the objectives of the Affordable Housing Plan and review sample plans from other Connecticut communities.

• Review of outreach effort summary report
• Discussion on purpose and objectives of the Affordable Housing Plan
• Review of sample Affordable Housing Plans from other CT communities
• Planning for subcommittee meetings regarding data collection and implementation

Library Board

The Board is reviewing the approved FY2023 budget, which maintains current spending levels while allowing for contractual salary increases. The meeting also covers updates on library staffing, professional development, and administrative reports.

• FY2023 budget approved with contractual salary increases but no funding for a Librarian II position
• Feasibility study launched for the 100 Mayflower St. property
• Recruitment underway for part-time reference, circulation, and technology positions
• Petition to rename New Street to Dinah Street presented by Mayor's Youth Council
• Total FY22 April expenditures recorded at $2,519,523.61

The West Hartford Public Library Board unanimously approved sending a letter to the Town Council expressing support for the library and the need for the unfunded Librarian 2 position. The board also approved the consent agenda, including the April 25, 2022 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and updates.

• Approved letter to Town Council supporting unfunded Librarian 2 position (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including April 25, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Conservation and Environment Commission

The Commission will review recommendations for gas-powered lawn equipment, including a white paper from Greenwich, CT. The meeting also includes discussions on pollinator pathways and planning for future in-person meetings.

• Review of gas-powered lawn equipment recommendations
• Discussion of pollinator pathways
• Approval of March 28, 2022 minutes
• Planning for in-person meetings

The Conservation and Environment Commission held a virtual meeting with no formal votes or decisions. Members discussed coordinating with other town commissions and agreed to invite the Bike Ped Committee and Clean Energy Commission to their June 27 meeting to discuss processes and purview. They also briefly discussed potential environmental projects, such as pollinator gardens and addressing sewage in Trout Brook, but took no action.

• Approved minutes from March 28, 2022 (motion by Ted Newton, second by Rick Bush; Jessica Schaeffer-Helmecki abstained)
• Agreed to invite Bike Ped Committee and Clean Energy Commission to June 27 meeting

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold study sessions regarding potential Special Development District applications. These include a proposed multi-family residential use at 950 Trout Brook Drive and the redevelopment of properties at 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue.

• Study session for potential multi-family residential use at 950 Trout Brook Drive
• Review of updated design concept for 950 Trout Brook Drive
• Study session for new Special Development District application at 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue
• Review of rendered views and site plan for 1003-1007 Farmington Avenue

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Community Planning & Economic Development Committee will discuss an ordinance to establish a Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from April 5 and April 20, 2022, and a community development update.

• Ordinance Establishing the Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District
• Approval of minutes from 4-5-22 and 4-20-22
• Community Development Update staff report

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from April 5 and April 20, 2022. The Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District ordinance was discussed and is scheduled for a public hearing at the Town Council meeting on June 14, 2022. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included staff reports and future agenda items.

• Approved minutes of April 5 and April 20, 2022 (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District on June 14, 2022

Civilian Police Review Board

The West Hartford Civilian Police Review Board will meet to approve minutes from the May 2, 2022 meeting. The board will also hold a discussion regarding its annual report.

• Approval of May 2, 2022 Meeting Minutes
• Discussion of Annual Report

The board approved its annual report, which will be submitted to the Town's Public Safety Committee at its June 1, 2022 meeting. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved annual report for submission to Public Safety Committee (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission on Veterans’ Affairs will hold a special meeting to discuss an event honoring Vietnam Era Veterans in West Hartford. The agenda also includes an update from the American Legion and approval of minutes from the April 19, 2022, special meeting.

• Event to Honor Vietnam Era Veterans in West Hartford
• American Legion Update – Heidi-Anne Mooney
• Approval of minutes from the April 19, 2022, special meeting

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs approved the minutes from its April 19, 2022 special meeting. Members agreed to serve as co-hosts for a fall 2022 event honoring Vietnam-era veterans, an initiative of Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, with the location to be determined. The Commission also received updates on American Legion Post 96 activities.

• Approved minutes from April 19, 2022 special meeting
• Agreed to serve as co-hosts for Vietnam-era veterans event (fall 2022)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on three property petitions. These include requests for a psychotherapist office and variances for a breezeway and a shed.

• Special Exception for a psychotherapist office at 114 Somerset Street
• Variance for a breezeway at 2 Chesterfield Lane
• Variance for an 8’ x 10’ shed at 1 Scarsdale Road

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a special exception for a psychotherapist home office at 114 Somerset Street and a variance for a breezeway at 2 Chesterfield Lane, both by 4-0 votes. A variance request for a shed at 1 Scarsdale Road was postponed to the June 15, 2022 meeting at the applicant's request. Minutes from the April 20, 2022 meeting were approved.

• Granted special exception for home occupation at 114 Somerset Street (4-0)
• Granted variance for breezeway at 2 Chesterfield Lane (4-0)
• Postponed shed variance at 1 Scarsdale Road to June 15, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved minutes from April 20, 2022 meeting

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will receive a report regarding the new Elder Justice Hotline. Other discussion items include senior transportation, job banks, and social services updates.

• Report on the new Elder Justice Hotline
• Seniors Job Bank update
• Transportation for Seniors discussion
• Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee report
• Sub-Committee on SCAC Code & Mission Statement review

The West Hartford Senior Citizens' Advisory Commission heard a presentation from Sandra Arenas, Special Associate Attorney General, on the Coalition for Elder Justice and the Elder Justice Hotline (860-888-5555). The Commission approved the April meeting minutes as submitted. No formal votes or policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on informational updates and reports.

• Approved April meeting minutes as submitted
• Heard presentation on Elder Justice Hotline and Coalition for Elder Justice
• Noted MDC water bill assistance program for those in need
• Discussed Seniors Job Bank website relaunch and user feedback
• ITN Central Connecticut expanded low-income rider program to all 15 towns served
• Senior Picnic scheduled for July 14 at Town Hall
• No Housing Fair planned for this year; deferred to next year
• Subcommittee on Mission Statement, Charter, and Rules rescheduled to May 24

Mayor's Youth Council

The West Hartford Mayor’s Youth Council is reviewing school reports and subcommittee updates. The meeting includes discussions on the Witness Stones Project/Dinah Road street renaming and upcoming June events.

• Witness Stones Project/Dinah Road Street Renaming update
• Juneteenth Celebration planning
• “Taking Care of Ourselves” workshop for immigrants on June 7
• The Butterfly Project discussion

Pension Board

The board is reviewing the Milliman Actuarial Valuation for the pension plan as of July 1, 2021. This report outlines funding requirements for fiscal year 2022-23 and details changes in liabilities and contributions. It specifically addresses the impact of Pension Obligation Bond proceeds and updated interest rate assumptions.

• Pension Obligation Bond proceeds of $322.9 million included as a receivable contribution
• Interest rate assumption lowered from 6.99% to 6.25%
• Accrued Liability increased by approximately $45.3 million
• Actuarially Determined Contribution decreased by about $20.1 million
• New 25-year closed amortization period for Unfunded Accrued Liability

The West Hartford Pension Board voted unanimously to accelerate half of the June 30th pension contribution for investment in the next week, with the other half invested at the end of June. The board also approved minutes, pension administration items, and invoices, and discussed the MARC pension administration system, scheduling a special meeting for June.

• Approved motion to accelerate half of June 30th DCA amount for investment (5-0)
• Approved minutes of February 28, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved pension administration items including memberships, terminations, and applications (unanimous)
• Approved invoices for payment, including Milliman and Silvercrest (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will meet on May 16, 2022. The agenda includes updates regarding the Mayflower Property and capital improvements, as well as discussion of Celebrate West Hartford.

• Adoption of March 21, 2022 meeting minutes
• Mayflower Property Update
• Capital Improvements Update
• Discussion regarding Celebrate West Hartford
• Report from Friends of West Hartford Parks

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board approved hiring Tecton Architects for a feasibility study of the Mayflower property, and approved the March 21, 2022 meeting minutes. The board also received updates on capital projects, including new pool construction at Eisenhower Park and restroom replacement at Wolcott Park, and discussed seasonal staff hiring and camp enrollment.

• Approved March 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new ECC Advisory Committee members
• Hired Tecton Architects for Mayflower feasibility study

Human & Community Services Committee

The committee will receive an update regarding the Elmwood Community Center and review staff reports from Library and Leisure and Social Services. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from February 14, 2022.

• Elmwood Community Center Update
• Library Updates
• Leisure and Social Services Update
• Approval of Minutes (2-14-22)

The West Hartford Human & Community Services Committee met virtually and approved the minutes from February 14, 2022. The acting town manager provided updates on the Elmwood Community Center and Library Project feasibility study, noting the first Advisory Committee meeting will occur in coming weeks. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved February 14, 2022 minutes (moved by Councilor Sweeney)

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will review draft recommendations for art and signage displays at Town Hall. Members will also discuss the future development of St. Brigid School and arts set-asides for new developments. Committee updates on outreach, finance, and events are also scheduled.

• Review of draft recommendations for Town Hall Art & Signage Display
• Discussion regarding future development of St. Brigid School
• Follow-up on murals on private property and decorative advertising
• Discussion of arts and culture set asides from new development applications

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts held a regular virtual meeting on May 16, 2022, approving the April 18, 2022 minutes (7-0). Members reviewed the draft Town Hall Public Display Committee and Public Art Criteria & Display Policy, with further discussion planned for June. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; all other items were updates or discussions.

• Approved April 18, 2022 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Reviewed draft Town Hall art display policy; further discussion at June meeting
• Discussed artist engagement plan; vote scheduled for June meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve April meeting minutes and select a new Board Chair. The agenda also includes reviews of real and personal property assessments for several local organizations and group homes.

• Selection of a new Board of Assessors Chair
• Personal property assessment for Hebrew Home and Hospital at 1 Abrahms Boulevard
• Real and personal property assessments for CT Association of Public School Superintendents Inc.
• Real property assessments for RMS Development Inc. group homes
• Real property assessments for Harc, Inc. and CIL Realty Incorporated

Design Review Advisory Committee

The Design Review Advisory Committee is holding a study session regarding a rezoning and Special Development District application. The proposal includes the demolition of 8 Arapahoe to create a multi-building, multi-family residential and mixed-use development.

• Rezoning and Special Development District application for 53-65 LaSalle Road & 8 Arapahoe
• Proposed demolition of the building at 8 Arapahoe
• Proposed multi-building, multi-family residential and mixed-use development
• Approval of April 21, 2022 Special Meeting minutes

Special Services District

The West Hartford Center Special Services District is holding a special meeting to consider a resolution authorizing a parking agreement among the district, the Town of West Hartford, and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Resolution authorizing a parking agreement with Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC
• Approval of minutes from the April 25, 2022 meeting

The West Hartford Center Special Services District met on May 10, 2022, and approved the minutes from the April 25 meeting unanimously. A proposed parking agreement involving the district, the Town, and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC was discussed in executive session and then tabled without objection. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 04-25-2022 (11-0)
• Tabled parking agreement with Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Center Special Services District tabled a resolution to authorize a parking agreement with the Town and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC, following an executive session. No substantive decisions were made; the item was tabled without a vote.

• Approved minutes of 04-25-2022 (11-0)
• Tabled parking agreement resolution (no vote)

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss an ordinance to establish a Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District. The agenda also includes several commission appointments and reviews of development plan revisions for Bishops Plaza and Blue Back Square.

• Ordinance establishing the Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District
• Lease amendment for 60 Starkel Road with WHFH III, Inc.
• Plan revisions at 2550-2553 Albany Avenue for a new Chase Bank walk-up ATM
• Architectural amendments to Blue Back Square at 65 Memorial Road
• Renaming of New Street to Dinah Road

The West Hartford Town Council voted to refer a proposed Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District ordinance to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission and other agencies, setting a public hearing for June 14, 2022. The Council also approved a lease amendment for 60 Starkel Road with two recusals, and approved a street renaming of New Street to Dinah Road. All other items were handled via the consent calendar, including appointments and special development district notices.

• Referred Transit-Oriented Development Zoning District ordinance to TPZ, CRCOG, and City of Hartford; public hearing set for June 14, 2022 (9-0)
• Approved lease amendment with WHFH III, Inc. for 60 Starkel Road (7-0, 2 recused)
• Approved renaming of New Street to Dinah Road; directed Town Clerk to publish notice on August 10, 2022 (9-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including minutes, appointments, and SDD notices (9-0)

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider resolutions regarding historic document preservation funds and a parking agreement involving West Hartford Center Special Services District. The agenda also includes staff updates and an executive session regarding a pending claim.

• Resolution to appropriate historic document preservation funds to the Office of the Town Clerk
• Resolution authorizing a parking agreement between West Hartford Center Special Services District, the Town of West Hartford, and Farmington Avenue Acquisitions, LLC
• Staff reports from Financial Services, Human Resources, and the Town Clerk

The Finance and Administration Committee reviewed a resolution to authorize a parking agreement for the 920-924 Farmington Avenue development, but no final action was taken. Councilor Davidoff raised a concern about the lack of a specified start date for parking payments, and staff agreed to seek that term from the owner before presenting the resolution to the Special Services District and Town Council. The committee also approved the April 5, 2022 minutes with corrections and discussed appropriating Historic Document Preservation Funds to the Town Clerk's office, but no votes were recorded on those items.

• Approved April 5, 2022 meeting minutes with corrections (motion by Ledwith, seconded by Sweeney)
• Reviewed resolution to appropriate Historic Document Preservation Funds to Town Clerk's office (no vote)
• Reviewed parking agreement resolution for 920-924 Farmington Ave; deferred pending addition of payment start date (no vote)

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The commission will review a staff report from the Town ADA Coordinator and an update regarding the ECC Advisory Commission. Lt. Thomas Lazure of the WHPD Training Division is scheduled to present on training for interacting with teenagers and adults on the autism spectrum and those with significant communication and learning disabilities.

• Approval of March 14, 2022 meeting minutes
• Staff report from Town ADA Coordinator Suzanne Oslander
• ECC Advisory Commission update
• WHPD presentation on interacting with individuals with autism and disabilities

The commission heard staff reports on ADA-compliant upgrades for Eisenhower Pool, Kennedy Park Pool House, and Wolcott Park Restroom, all in design or early stages. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was informational, with updates on old and new business.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at meeting
• Discussed Eisenhower Pool ADA upgrade, construction late summer 2022
• Discussed Kennedy Park Pool House ADA upgrade, construction late summer 2022
• Discussed Wolcott Park Restroom ADA upgrade, design contract to be awarded
• Noted CERT Covid booster clinic on May 19, 2022

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will discuss updates on engineering projects, including road resurfacing and the Trout Brook Trail. Members will also review progress on the Main Street Road Diet following recent public meetings. Additionally, the meeting includes presentations on crosswalk legislation and bicycle boxes.

• 2022 road reconstruction and resurfacing projects update
• Trout Brook Trail and New Park Avenue Complete Streets updates
• Status of budget request for a town-wide road safety study consultant
• Main Street Road Diet progress following public information meetings
• Presentations on Connecticut crosswalk legislation and bicycle boxes

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes with corrections. They discussed several ongoing projects, including a crash data heat map, bike network map revisions, and crosswalk improvements, but took no formal votes on these items. Updates were provided on the Trout Brook Trail construction and road resurfacing projects. The commission also noted that funding for a town-wide road safety study was eliminated from the 2022 budget.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with corrections
• Discussed crash data heat map and vulnerable user map (no action)
• Discussed bike network map revisions (no action)
• Discussed crosswalk map revision (no action)
• Tabled survey and bicycle education in schools for later
• Noted road safety study funding eliminated from 2022 budget

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold a study session regarding a rezoning and Special Development District application. The proposal includes demolishing the building at 8 Arapahoe to create a multi-family residential and mixed-use development. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the April 21, 2022 special meeting.

• Rezoning and Special Development District application for 53-65 LaSalle Road & 8 Arapahoe
• Proposed demolition of 8 Arapahoe for new development
• Approval of April 21, 2022 meeting minutes

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will meet to approve minutes from March 3, 2022. The agenda includes a discussion on DPW EVSE infrastructure and governance, as well as staff reports for Public Works and Sustainability.

• Approval of March 3, 2022, minutes
• DPW - EVSE Infrastructure and Governance
• Public Works Update
• Sustainability Update

The Public Works & Facilities Committee approved the minutes from March 3, 2022, and discussed a white paper on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and governance. Staff also proposed a tour of the Public Works yard at Brixton Street for council members, with morning and evening sessions to be scheduled. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved minutes of March 3, 2022 (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

This meeting consists of procedural items and departmental updates. The committee will approve minutes from March 3, 2022, and receive staff reports from the Fire and Police Departments.

• Approval of March 3, 2022 minutes
• Fire Department update
• Police Department update

The West Hartford Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from its March 3, 2022 meeting. The committee received detailed reports from the Fire and Police Departments, including updates on incidents, community programs, and crime statistics. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved meeting minutes of March 3, 2022

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will discuss potential guest speakers from ADL CT and the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. The meeting also includes updates on commission vacancies, secretary duties, and a recommendation regarding the IHRA definition.

• Potential guest speakers from ADL CT and the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities
• Discussion of two WHHRC vacancies
• Status update on recommending West Hartford adopt IHRA definition
• Temporary reassignment of secretary duties during Aurora Melita's maternity leave
• Update on the Honor Roll and Facebook Live initiative

Civilian Police Review Board

The West Hartford Civilian Police Review Board will hold a special meeting to discuss its annual report. The board will also review and approve minutes from meetings held on February 16 and April 20, 2022.

• Discussion of Annual Report
• Approval of February 16, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approval of April 20, 2022 meeting minutes

The Civilian Police Review Board held a special meeting on May 2, 2022, approving minutes from two prior meetings and discussing the draft annual report. The board will continue discussing the report at its next meeting on May 18, with presentation scheduled for June 1. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from 2/16/22 meeting (6-0-1)
• Approved minutes from 4/20/22 meeting (4-0-3)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The commission will hold public hearings on several land use applications, including synthetic turf fields at the University of Saint Joseph and Renbrook School. The agenda also includes petitions for street renaming and a proposed ordinance for adult-use cannabis regulation.

• Proposed ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis
• Public hearing for synthetic turf field at 1678 Asylum Avenue
• Application for greenhouse and high ropes course at 2865 Albany Avenue
• Petition to rename New Street to Dinah Road
• Amendment for new Arhaus store at Westfarms Mall

The West Hartford Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved special use permits for synthetic turf athletic fields at Renbrook School (2865 Albany Avenue) and the University of St. Joseph (1678 Asylum Avenue), along with associated improvements, subject to conditions. The commission also approved the honorary street renaming of New Street to Dinah Road, and conditionally approved an inland wetlands permit for the University of St. Joseph's turf field. Several other items were scheduled for public hearings on June 6, 2022, including a proposed street renaming and various permit applications.

• Approved special use permit for synthetic turf field at Renbrook School (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for synthetic turf field at University of St. Joseph (5-0)
• Approved street renaming of New Street to Dinah Road (5-0)
• Conditionally approved inland wetlands permit for University of St. Joseph turf field (5-0)
• Conditionally approved inland wetlands permit for West Hartford Youth Baseball field lighting (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Sycamore Lane renaming to Peleg Nott Lane (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for West Hartford Youth Baseball special use permit amendment (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Renbrook School greenhouse and ropes course (5-0)

General

This special virtual meeting consists of procedural items for the Fair Rent Commission. The commission will approve minutes from the March 31, 2022 meeting and conduct an election of officers.

• Approval of March 31, 2022 minutes
• Membership update
• Election of Chair
• Election of Vice Chair
• Election of Secretary

The Fair Rent Commission held a special virtual meeting and approved the prior meeting minutes unanimously. The commission elected new officers: Commissioner Fulco as Chair, Vice Chair Mahler as Vice Chair, and Commissioners Safo-Agyeman and Berklas as Co-Secretaries. The resignation of Commissioner Joseph Cassidy was noted, leaving a vacant position.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Commissioner Fulco as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Vice Chair Mahler as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Commissioner Safo-Agyeman as Co-Secretary (unanimous)
• Elected Commissioner Berklas as Co-Secretary (unanimous)

Clean Energy Commission

The Clean Energy Commission will review updates on solar workshops and air-quality projects. The commission will also discuss planning a joint meeting with other commissions and the Town Sustainability website.

• Elementary School Air-Quality Projects ($3M per year for 15 years)
• EV/EVSE - CMAQ grant ($20,952)
• Planning a joint meeting with Ped Bike and Cons & Envt commissions
• Town Sustainability website discussion

The West Hartford Clean Energy Commission approved the March 30, 2022 meeting minutes and discussed plans for a joint meeting with other commissions to explore a sustainability umbrella organization. Several items, including elementary school air-quality projects, an EV/EVSE grant, and the town sustainability website, were deferred to the next meeting. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy decisions.

• Approved March 30, 2022 meeting minutes
• Deferred elementary school air-quality projects to next meeting
• Deferred EV/EVSE CMAQ grant ($20,952) to next meeting
• Deferred town sustainability website to next meeting
• Deferred energy update/budget to next meeting

Special Services District

The District will consider a resolution to adopt the annual budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. This includes the imposition of a tax levy on each land use category. The meeting also includes approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Resolution to Adopt the Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023
• Imposition of a Tax Levy on Each Land Use Category
• Approval of March 8, 2022 and April 12, 2022 minutes

The West Hartford Center Special Services District approved the annual budget for fiscal year 2022-2023 and imposed a tax levy on each land use category, all by unanimous vote. The board also approved the minutes from the March 8, 2022 meeting and the April 12, 2022 budget public hearing. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Approved FY2022-2023 annual budget and tax levy (11-0)
• Approved minutes of 03-08-2022 meeting (11-0)
• Approved minutes of 04-12-2022 budget public hearing (11-0)

Library Board

The West Hartford Library Board will review the FY2023 budget update and discuss library trends regarding intellectual freedom. The board will also review administrative reports, quarterly statistics, and determine the location for the May meeting.

• FY2023 Budget Update
• Library Issues and Trends — Intellectual Freedom
• Review of quarterly circulation statistics (58,680 items)
• Determination of May meeting location

The West Hartford Library Board unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the March meeting minutes and the director's reports. The board received updates on the FY2023 budget vote by the Town Council and discussed intellectual freedom trends. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved consent agenda including March 28, 2022 minutes and director's reports (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:10 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation and Environment Commission

The West Hartford Conservation and Environment Commission will review recommendations regarding gas powered lawn equipment. The meeting also includes a discussion on fostering pollinator species through pollinator pathways. Additionally, the commission will coordinate with the Town to plan for future in-person meetings.

• Approval of March 28, 2022 minutes
• Gas powered lawn equipment recommendations
• Pollinator Pathways discussion
• Planning for in-person meetings

Town Council

The Town Council will review ordinances regarding appropriations for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2022. The agenda also includes resolutions for year-end budgetary transfers and the October 1, 2021 tax levy.

• Ordinance deauthorizing $3,000,000 for certain Capital Improvement Program projects
• Ordinance concerning appropriations for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2022
• Ordinance regarding appropriations to the Capital Improvement Fund
• Resolution concerning the tax levy on the October 1, 2021 list
• Resolution authorizing year-end budgetary transfers

The West Hartford Town Council approved the FY2022-23 budget ordinance, capital improvement program appropriations and bond authorization, and the tax levy on the October 1, 2021 grand list. It also approved a two-year phase-in of the property revaluation and year-end budget transfers. All votes were recorded with specific tallies.

• Adopted FY2022-23 appropriations ordinance (6-3)
• Adopted two-year phase-in of October 1, 2021 property revaluation (6-3)
• Approved capital improvement program appropriations and bond issuance for FY2022-23 and FY2023-24 (8-1)
• Approved capital improvement fund appropriation for FY beginning July 1, 2022 (8-1)
• Adopted tax levy on October 1, 2021 grand list (7-2)
• Authorized year-end budgetary transfers (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Commission is reviewing a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior accent wood timber replacements at 25 West Hill Drive. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from February and March 2022 meetings.

• Exterior accent wood timber replacements at 25 West Hill Drive
• Approval of February 28, 2022 Special Meeting minutes
• Approval of March 28, 2022 Regular Meeting minutes

The West Hartford Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for Greg Konover to replace exterior accent wooden timbers on his Tudor-style house at 25 West Hill Drive. The approval allows the use of Boral, a composite material, instead of wood due to lumber shortages. The vote was split 3-1, with Commissioner Harris declining. The commission also unanimously approved the March 28 meeting minutes.

• Approved Konover COA for replacement accent timbers with Boral composite (3-1)
• Approved March 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review an application for architectural and signage changes at 1500-1502 New Britain Avenue. The meeting also includes a study session regarding potential office expansion and a new restaurant at Corporate Center West.

• Proposed exterior and signage improvements for Arhaus at Westfarms Mall
• Study session for development at 433-445 South Main Street
• Approval of March 24, 2022, meeting minutes

Prevention Council

The council will approve minutes from the March 10, 2022, meeting and address a presentation by Ginnie Katz. The agenda also includes updates on the April 30 WHPP Wellness Event and reports from several local agencies.

• Approval of March 10, 2022, meeting minutes
• Ginnie Katz presentation and voting
• April 30 WHPP Wellness Event
• Standing reports from Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge), and Prevention Partnership Coalition

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will receive an update regarding the North Main Street road diet trial. The meeting also includes a report from the Community Development Department.

• North Main Street Road Diet Trial Update
• Community Development Department Update

Civilian Police Review Board

The West Hartford Civilian Police Review Board will meet to discuss its annual report. The agenda also includes approval of meeting minutes from February 16, 2022.

• Approval of February 16, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion of Annual Report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider two petitions regarding yard obstructions and fence height requirements. The board will also review Building Inspection Division comments and approve minutes from the March 16, 2022 meeting.

• Variance for a ~700 sq. ft. garage at 15 Bishop Road
• Variance for a 4.5-foot high fence at 7 Country Lane
• Building Inspection Division comments
• Approval of March 16, 2022 meeting minutes

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The commission will review minutes from March 15, 2022, and hear reports on senior transportation and job banks. A presentation will cover Medicare plan options and IRMAA rules. Members will also discuss the West Hartford Housing Assessment Survey.

• Medicare Plan Options, Savings Plans, & IRMAA Rules presentation
• West Hartford Housing Assessment Survey
• Sub-Committee on SCAC Code & Mission Statement report

Mayor's Youth Council

The West Hartford Mayor’s Youth Council meeting includes school and subcommittee reports. The agenda also features updates on the Witness Stones Project and the Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee.

• Logo Design Contest Winner: Libby Karim
• Witness Stones Project update
• Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee follow up
• Mental Health Action and Awareness Committee report
• West Hartford Climate Projects update

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs will discuss the transition from service to civilian life. The meeting also includes an update on legislation regarding veterans’ grave markers and a discussion on town holiday recognition.

• Discussion: Transition from Service to Civilian Life
• Update: Legislation Regarding Veterans’ Grave Markers
• Town recognition of holidays
• Approval of minutes from September 21, 2021

Town Council

The Town Council is reviewing the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2023. This review includes the Capital Improvement Plan and various general government departments.

• Review of Proposed FY 2023 Budget
• Proposed Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2023-34
• Community Development budget review
• General Government budget review including Registrar Voters, Town Manager, and General Fund

Commission on the Arts

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts will review draft recommendations for Town Hall art and signage displays. The meeting also includes discussions regarding murals on private property and development set asides for arts and culture. Committee updates from various groups will be presented.

• Review of draft recommendations for Town Hall art and signage display
• Discussion on murals on private property
• Discussion on decorative cylindrical advertising
• Follow-up on development set asides for arts and culture
• Future development of St. Brigid School

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review minutes from March 2022 meetings and address several property assessments. These include personal property for multiple organizations and both personal and real property for the CT Association of Public School Superintendents Inc.

• Hebrew Home and Hospital personal property assessment
• Hebrew Community Services personal property assessment
• West Hartford Women’s Chorale Corporation personal property assessment
• CT Association of Public School Superintendents Inc. personal and real property assessment

The Board of Assessors approved tax-exempt status for personal property of Hebrew Community Services and West Hartford Women's Chorale Corporation, with one abstention on the former. Two other exemption requests—Hebrew Home Hospital and Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents—were tabled pending further information. Minutes from prior meetings were accepted unanimously.

• Approved tax exemption for Hebrew Community Services personal property (all in favor, one abstention)
• Approved tax exemption for West Hartford Women's Chorale Corporation personal property (unanimous)
• Tabled Hebrew Home Hospital tax exemption request pending info from Corporation Counsel and CFO
• Tabled Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents tax exemption request pending further info
• Accepted minutes of March 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of March 23, 2022 special meeting (unanimous)

General

The sub-committee is discussing updates to the West Hartford Town Code regarding the Senior Citizens Advisory Commission and its mission statement. The group aims to propose new language for a future meeting and to the Town Administrative Liaison.

• Review of Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, Sec. 5-32 through Sec. 5-39
• Proposal of updates to the Commission mission statement

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission sub-committee met to begin a partial review of West Hartford Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, Sections 5-32 through 5-39, which established the commission in 1972. They discussed a process to complete the review, bring recommendations to the full SCAC, and forward a draft to the Town Council for action, with a goal of finishing by the end of 2022. Proposed language changes would replace 'elderly and senior citizens' with 'older adults.' No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and discussion-only.

• Reviewed Town Code Chapter 5, Article VIII, Sec. 5-32 to 5-39 (partial)
• Proposed replacing 'elderly and senior citizens' with 'older adults'
• Scheduled next meeting for May 24 at 2:00 PM at Bishops Corner Senior Center

Special Services District

The West Hartford Center Special Services District will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. This proposal was submitted by the District Manager in accordance with local ordinances.

• Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023
• Public hearing for district members and the public

The West Hartford Center Special Services District held a public hearing on the proposed FY 2022-2023 budget. No members of the district addressed the commissioners, and no formal vote or decision was made on the budget during this meeting.

• Public hearing on FY 2022-2023 budget held, no public comments received
• No action taken on proposed budget

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing featuring a presentation on an ordinance concerning outdoor dining. The meeting includes a period for questions and comments from councilors and the public.

• Ordinance concerning outdoor dining

Special Services District

The West Hartford Center Special Services District is holding a special meeting to address unfinished business. The agenda includes elections for a Member and Alternate Member representing owners of taxable residential land use property.

• Election of Member and Alternate Member for residential land use property owners

The West Hartford Center Special Services District held a special meeting to elect a member and alternate member to represent owners of taxable residential land use property. Commissioner Morpurgo was the sole nominee and was elected with one vote in favor and none opposed. He then appointed Art Apivak as the alternate member. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Elected Morpurgo as member representing residential land use owners (1-0)
• Appointed Art Apivak as alternate member representing residential land use owners

Town Council

The Town Council will consider an ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and site improvements for Arhaus at Westfarms Mall. The agenda also includes discussions on outdoor dining ordinances and several board appointments.

• Ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis
• Site improvements for Arhaus at 1500/1502 New Britain Avenue
• Ordinance concerning outdoor dining
• Community Connectivity Grant from the CT Department of Transportation
• Lease amendment regarding 60 Starkel Road

The West Hartford Town Council referred an ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and an application from Arhaus, Inc. for a new store at Westfarms Mall to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission and set public hearings for May 24, 2022. The council also referred a lease amendment for 60 Starkel Road to a public hearing on May 10, 2022, and withdrew an outdoor dining ordinance. All other items were approved via the consent calendar, including appointments and resignations.

• Referred adult-use cannabis ordinance to TPZ and set public hearing for May 24, 2022 (8-0)
• Referred Arhaus store application to TPZ and set public hearing for May 24, 2022 (8-0)
• Referred lease amendment for 60 Starkel Road to public hearing on May 10, 2022 (6-0, 2 abstentions)
• Withdrew outdoor dining ordinance (8-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, appointments, and resignations (8-0)
• Approved appointment of Alexis Davidoff to Commission on Veterans' Affairs (7-0, 1 recused)
• Entered executive sessions for real estate and attorney-client privileged discussions (8-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The Commission will receive several updates from the Director of Engineering regarding road reconstruction and traffic safety. Discussions include progress on the Trout Brook Trail and the North Main Street Road Diet trial. The meeting also covers the status of a budget request for a town-wide road safety study.

• 2022 road reconstruction and resurfacing projects update
• Trout Brook Trail update
• New Park Avenue Complete Streets project update
• North Main Street Road Diet trial update
• Status of budget request for a traffic consultant road safety study

The West Hartford Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission tabled its 2022 projects until the May 9 meeting and heard engineering updates on road repaving, resurfacing, and trail construction. No formal votes were taken; discussions covered bike lane widths on Mayflower St, a Farmington Ave redesign, and a road diet trial on North Main St. The commission also supported drafting a letter to the Town Council in favor of the road diet.

• Tabled 2022 PBC projects until 5/9/22 meeting
• Discussed Mayflower St resurfacing with 5-ft bike lanes and no parking
• Discussed Farmington Ave section options including bike lanes and parking
• Noted Trout Brook Trail Phase 5 under construction, Phase 6 to finish in fall
• Agreed to invite West Hartford Police Department to May meeting
• Ed will draft a formal letter to Town Council supporting the North Main St road diet

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will consider appropriating a state transportation grant and reviewing a lease agreement for 60 Starkel Road. Members will also address the relocation of displaced tenants and fire personnel overtime processes.

• Appropriation of a CT DOT Community Connectivity Grant
• Lease agreement for West Hartford Fellowship Housing at 60 Starkel Road
• Relocation of displaced apartment tenants
• Fire personnel overtime election process
• Litigation regarding 27 Park Road and 14 Ringgold Street

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed 2022-2023 fiscal year budget and Capital Improvement Plan. The proposal was submitted by the Town Manager and the Superintendent of Schools. Residents may provide testimony in person or via email.

• Proposed 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget
• Proposed Capital Improvement Program for FY 2023-2033

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed budget. Five residents spoke on the budget, and no other members of the public wished to speak. The hearing was closed and the meeting adjourned without any substantive decisions being made.

• Public hearing on proposed budget held; no vote or action taken

General

The West Hartford Town Council will review the proposed FY 2023 budget. This includes proposals for the Health District, Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Works.

• Review of proposed FY 2023 budgets for Health District, Fire, Police, and Public Works

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will review meeting minutes from early 2022 and provide updates on several initiatives. The agenda includes discussions regarding a statement of support for Ukraine and the recognition of Superintendent Tom Moore.

• Discussion of HRC statement of support for Ukraine
• Discussion of recognition for Superintendent Tom Moore
• Update on Honor Roll initiative
• Approval of January, February, and March 2022 meeting minutes

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission approved a social media post to wish Superintendent Tom Moore well on his retirement. They also tabled a statement of support for Ukraine, decided not to record meetings, and discussed nominations for the Honor Roll and Memorial Day Parade.

• Approved social media post for Superintendent Tom Moore (voice vote, 1 abstention)
• Tabled statement of support for Ukraine
• Decided not to participate in recording meetings for WHCi
• Agreed to send email to town about low Honor Roll nominations and suggest reopening process
• Set May 4, 2022 meeting at Elmwood Community Center, Room #24

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Community Planning & Economic Development Committee will discuss an ordinance regarding adult-use cannabis and smoking in parks. The committee will also consider approving minutes from the February 16 and March 28, 2022 meetings.

• Ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and smoking in parks
• Approval of meeting minutes from 2-16-22 and 3-28-22

The Community Planning and Economic Development Committee voted 2-1 to adopt an ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis, including restrictions on smoking in parks and distance buffers between retailers and special sites. The motion was made by Councilor Wenograd and seconded by Chairman Davidoff. The item will be scheduled for a public hearing at a future meeting.

• Adopted ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and smoking in parks (2-1)
• Received minutes for February 16 and March 28, 2022 (unanimous)
• Scheduled item 2B for public hearing at future meeting

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will meet with Acting Town Manager Rick Ledwith and Superintendent of Schools Thomas Moore. The meeting is to review, discuss, and make recommendations regarding the Capital Improvements Program for FY 2023-2034.

• Review and recommendation of the Capital Improvements Program (FY 2023-2034)

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission held a special meeting with the Acting Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools to review the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for FY 2023-2034. After discussion, the commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the CIP. The meeting adjourned at 6:58 p.m.

• Recommended approval of CIP FY 2023-2034 (5-0)

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The commission is reviewing applications for new synthetic turf athletic fields at Renbrook School and the University of Saint Joseph. Public hearings are scheduled for several wetland-related permits and a street renaming petition. The commission will also review a proposed ordinance regarding outdoor dining.

• Synthetic turf field application at 2865 Albany Avenue
• Synthetic turf softball field application at 1678 Asylum Avenue
• Platform tennis court installation at 60 Wampanoag Drive
• Petition to rename New Street to Dinah Road
• Proposed ordinance amendment for outdoor dining

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved minutes from March 7 and scheduled public hearings for May 2 on several applications, including synthetic turf fields at Renbrook School and University of Saint Joseph, platform tennis courts at Wampanoag Country Club, and the renaming of New Street to Dinah Road. The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency conditionally approved multiple wetland permits, including for Wampanoag Country Club, 15 Fernbrook, 4 Banbury Lane, and several town-owned drainage system repairs. No action was taken on a proposed ordinance concerning outdoor dining.

• Approved minutes of March 7, 2022 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Renbrook School synthetic turf field (SUP #1377) for May 2 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for University of Saint Joseph synthetic turf field (SUP #1378) for May 2 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Wampanoag Country Club platform tennis courts (SUP #1379) for May 2 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for New Street renaming to Dinah Road for May 2 (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for Wampanoag Country Club platform tennis courts (IWW #1173) (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permits for 15 Fernbrook, 4 Banbury Lane, 574-600 Mountain Road, 660/666/667 Mountain Road, 14 Wendy Lane, and 34-38 Fairfield Road (all 5-0)
• No action taken on outdoor dining ordinance referral

General

The West Hartford Fair Rent Commission will discuss administrative hearing guidelines and hear Case #2022-05, Caldwell v. Hexagon Farmington Ave LLC. The meeting also includes a membership update and approval of February 17, 2022 minutes.

• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines
• Case #2022-05: Caldwell v. Hexagon Farmington Ave LLC
• Membership update
• Approval of February 17, 2022 meeting minutes

The Fair Rent Commission held a hearing on Case #2202-05 Caldwell v. Hexagon Farmington Avenue, LLC, and unanimously found the rental charge excessive. The Commission approved a rent increase of $200 effective May 10, 2022, with an additional $50 increase in 2023 until lease renewal. The next meeting was scheduled virtually for April 28, 2022.

• Found rent increase excessive in Caldwell v. Hexagon Farmington Avenue, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $200 rent increase effective May 10, 2022, plus $50 in 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting virtually for April 28, 2022 at 6:30 pm

General

The Town Council will discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Budget and Capital Improvement Plan. This proposal was submitted by the Town Manager and Superintendent.

• Discussion of FY 2022-2023 Budget and Capital Improvement Plan

The Town Council and Board of Education held a joint budget workshop to discuss the proposed FY 2022-2023 municipal operating budget, capital improvement plan, and school budget. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the session was for presentation and discussion only.

• Discussed proposed FY 2022-2023 municipal operating budget
• Discussed proposed FY 2022-2023 capital improvement plan
• Discussed proposed FY 2022-2023 Board of Education budget

Clean Energy Commission

The Clean Energy Commission is reviewing air-quality projects for nine elementary schools and a $20,952 CMAQ grant application. The meeting also covers updates on upcoming community energy events.

• Elementary School Air-Quality Projects ($3M per year for 15 years)
• CMAQ grant application for $20,952
• Earth Day event on April 24
• Avon/CT River Valley Energy Fair on May 14

The West Hartford Clean Energy Commission met virtually on March 30, 2022, and approved the minutes from its February 23, 2022 meeting. The commission discussed updates on the HeatSmart campaign, a $20,952 CMAQ grant for EV charging, and plans for upcoming events like the Earth Day celebration and solar workshop. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved February 23, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussed HeatSmart campaign with 113 residents expressing interest
• Noted town awarded $20,952 CMAQ grant for EV charging, but internal review needed
• Discussed potential revisions to commission organization and scope
• Planned Earth Day event on April 24 at 100 Mayflower
• Scheduled solar workshop at WH Library for April 19
• Discussed elementary school air-quality projects with interviews complete
• Explored joint webinar with Chamber and Econ Dev on business energy efficiency

General

The West Hartford Town Council will meet to discuss the town's revaluation and the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget proposed by the Town Manager. No other business items are scheduled for discussion.

• Discussion of Revaluation
• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Budget

The West Hartford Town Council held a budget workshop to discuss the 2021 revaluation and its impact on the proposed FY2022-2023 budget. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational only, with staff answering councilors' questions about tax rate implementation options.

• No formal decisions made; discussion only

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will consider an ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and smoking in parks. Staff reports on community development, street traffic calming, and economic development are also scheduled for review.

• Ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and smoking in parks
• February 2022 Community Development Department Report
• Neighborhood Street Traffic Calming Program report
• Economic Development Quarterly Report

The Community Planning and Economic Development Committee discussed a proposed ordinance regulating adult-use cannabis and smoking in parks, including restrictions on locations near schools and parks, and debated buffer distances. No formal vote was taken; the ordinance will be revisited. Staff reports on the Transit-Oriented District Ordinance and traffic calming were informational only.

• Discussed adult-use cannabis ordinance, no vote taken
• Suggested increasing cannabis establishment separation to 2,500 ft (Mayor Cantor)
• Suggested changing school/childcare buffer from 500 ft to 1,500 ft (Chairman Davidoff)
• Received Transit-Oriented District Ordinance update, no action
• Received traffic calming program summary, no action
• Received Economic Development Quarterly Report for information only

Library Board

The Library Board will review updates regarding the FY2023 budget and e-book licensing legislation. The meeting also includes discussions on staff professional development and the new community center project.

• Update on Connecticut Senate Bill No. 131 regarding e-book licensing
• Progress on selecting an architect for the community center/library branch project
• FY2023 budget update
• Staff professional development updates

Conservation and Environment Commission

The meeting consists primarily of procedural items, including the approval of minutes from February 28, 2022. The commission will also discuss coordination with the Town and other commissions.

• Approval of minutes from February 28, 2022
• Coordination with the Town and other commissions

Historic District Commission

The Commission met to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior window replacements at 7 Buena Vista Road by Elizabeth Woods. The agenda also included approval of minutes from the February 28, 2022, special meeting.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior window replacements at 7 Buena Vista Road

The West Hartford Historic District Commission unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for Elizabeth Woods to replace exterior windows at 7 Buena Vista Road with composite triple-pane windows. The commission also discussed a contractor's use of Boral material for timber repairs at 25 West Hill Drive, advising that a new COA application be submitted, and tabled the February 28 special meeting minutes due to lack of quorum.

• Approved composite window replacement COA for 7 Buena Vista Road (unanimous)
• Tabled review of February 28, 2022 Special Meeting Draft Minutes (no quorum)
• Advised contractor at 25 West Hill Drive to submit new COA for Boral timber replacement

Board of Assessors

The West Hartford Board of Assessors is holding a virtual special meeting to review personal property items. The agenda includes reviews for the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Hartford and the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford, Inc.

• Personal property: Jewish Historical Society of Greater Hartford (333 Bloomfield Avenue)
• Personal property: Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford, Inc. (333 Bloomfield Avenue)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee is conducting study sessions regarding potential rezoning and development applications. These include a multi-family residential project at 53-65 LaSalle Road and improvements at Westfarms Mall.

• Proposed multi-family residential and mixed-use development at 53-65 LaSalle Road & 8 Arapahoe
• Proposed façade, signage, and landscape improvements at 1502 New Britain Avenue
• Approval of March 17, 2022 meeting minutes

Mayor's Youth Council

The West Hartford Mayor's Youth Council will review reports from local schools and subcommittees. The meeting also includes discussions on by-law recommendations and a logo contest winner.

• MYC By-Law Recommendations
• Logo Contest Winner announcement
• Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee Alternate
• Subcommittee updates for mental health, social media, and diversity

The Mayor's Youth Council approved minutes from the 2/15/22 meeting with corrections, and selected logo design #3 as the winner of the logo contest for use on social media and websites in 2022-2023. They also discussed subcommittee updates, including plans for a mental health podcast, Diversity Night on May 14, and a request for an alternate to the Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from 2/15/22 with corrections (unanimous)
• Logo design #3 won the logo contest and will be used on MYC social media and websites in 2022-2023

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing featuring a presentation on an ordinance amendment. This amendment concerns the tax exemption procedure for ambulance-type vehicles. The meeting also includes time for questions and comments from councilors and the public.

• Ordinance amending tax exemption procedure for ambulance-type vehicles

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is reviewing an application from Prospect Plaza Improvements, LLC regarding Special Development District #11. The applicant seeks to remove existing restrictions on uses to allow all uses permitted in the underlying zoning district for 245 Prospect Avenue.

• Request to modify conditions of approval for Special Development District #11
• Proposal to permit all uses allowed in the underlying zoning district at 245 Prospect Avenue

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on an application by Prospect Plaza Improvements, LLC to amend Special Development District #11 at 245 Prospect Avenue, removing a 1966 condition that required Council approval for each new use. The applicant argued this would help attract tenants by allowing all uses permitted in the underlying BG zone. No members of the public signed up to speak. The Council did not vote at this hearing; it was a public hearing only, with the application pending further action.

• Public hearing held on application to amend SDD #11 at 245 Prospect Avenue
• No public speakers signed up; hearing closed without Council vote
• Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval (unanimous)
• Design Review Advisory Committee recommended approval (unanimous)
• Capitol Region Council of Governments found no regional conflicts

Town Council

The Town Council will consider applications for rezoning at New Britain Avenue and Prospect Plaza. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding voting district boundaries and various budget appropriations.

• Zoning change request for 12 Grove Street, 1105-1115 New Britain Avenue, and 5 Newington Road to expand a parking lot area
• Modification of Special Development District conditions for 245 Prospect Avenue
• Resolution revising West Hartford voting district boundaries
• $25,000 Justice Assistance Grant acceptance for equipment purchase
• $6,500 appropriation from the Drug Enforcement Fund for an unmanned drone aircraft

The West Hartford Town Council approved a modification to the Special Development District at 245 Prospect Avenue (Prospect Plaza), removing use restrictions and allowing all uses permitted in the underlying zoning district. The council also adopted an ordinance amending the tax exemption procedure for ambulance-type vehicles and a resolution revising voting district boundaries. Several items were approved on the consent calendar, including minutes, a $25,000 grant for equipment, and appropriations for the Town Clerk and a drone. The council postponed the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report to May 24, 2022.

• Approved modification to Prospect Plaza SDD to allow all underlying zoning uses (9-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending tax exemption procedure for ambulance-type vehicles (9-0)
• Adopted resolution revising voting district boundaries (9-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, $25,000 grant, $16,000 Town Clerk appropriation, and $6,500 drone purchase (9-0)
• Postponed Comprehensive Annual Financial Report to May 24, 2022 (9-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The board will discuss spring and summer program registrations and capital improvements. Members will also receive an update on the Mayflower property. A guest speaker will present regarding the West Hartford Tree Project.

• Mayflower Property Update
• Spring/Summer Program Registrations
• Capital Improvements Update
• West Hartford Tree Project presentation
• Report from Friends of West Hartford Parks

The board adopted the January 24, 2022 minutes unanimously. They received updates on spring/summer program registrations (over 3,000 in 31 minutes), the Mayflower property feasibility study (hired Tecton, completion by Thanksgiving), and capital improvements (tennis courts, Eisenhower Pool). A guest speaker presented the West Hartford Tree Project's second year, including seedling distribution and plans for deciduous trees. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Adopted January 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Heard update: spring/summer registrations exceeded 3,000 in 31 minutes, valued over $500,000
• Heard update: Tecton hired for Mayflower feasibility study, RFP for architects to follow
• Heard update: Buena Vista tennis courts being renovated to 2 tennis and 6 pickleball courts
• Heard update: Eisenhower Pool project to be time-intensive over next 12 months
• Heard presentation: West Hartford Tree Project to give away deciduous trees/shrubs, requests due April 21

General

The Affordable Housing Advisory Group will meet to finalize its group vision statement. The full group will review proposed community outreach methodologies and deployment timelines. Additionally, the Community Engagement Subcommittee will establish final survey questions and language for comment boards.

• Finalizing the group vision statement
• Presentation on proposed community outreach methodologies and timeline
• Establishing final survey questions for the Community Engagement Subcommittee
• Establishing final language for comment boards

Commission on the Arts

The commission will discuss future development at St. Brigid School and potential annual music events. Members will also review follow-up issues regarding murals on private property and arts and culture set asides from new development applications.

• Future development of St. Brigid School
• Murals on private property
• Arts and culture set asides from new development applications
• Town Hall art and signage display recommendations

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts met virtually and approved minutes from prior meetings. Members discussed the future of the St. Brigid School property, with Chuck Coursey joining a town committee, and explored a possible summer 2023 music event. The town confirmed murals on private property need no permit, and a new set-aside process for arts funding from development applications is being introduced. The commission also reviewed ideas for improving signage and public art displays at Town Hall.

• Approved minutes from Jan 31 and Feb 22, 2022 meetings (unanimous)
• Discussed St. Brigid School property reuse; Chuck Coursey to serve on town committee
• Explored planning a summer 2023 music event, possibly at an outdoor venue
• Noted murals on private property require no permit; neighbor outreach encouraged
• Town has decorative cylindrical advertising on its list of new marketing tools
• Town is implementing a new set-aside process for arts & culture from development applications
• Reviewed Town Hall signage and art display recommendations, including a public art policy
• Adjourned at 7:38 PM (unanimous)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review an application to change the approved conditions for 245 Prospect Avenue to allow all uses permitted in the underlying zoning district. The agenda also includes a study session regarding potential multi-family residential development at 950 Trout Brook Drive. Additionally, the committee will approve minutes from three previous special meetings.

• Application to modify usage restrictions at 245 Prospect Avenue
• Study session for potential multi-family residential use at 950 Trout Brook Drive
• Approval of January 19, February 10, and February 24 meeting minutes

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is holding a public hearing regarding the proposed 2022-2023 fiscal year budget and Capital Improvement Plan. The proposal was submitted by the Town Manager and the Superintendent of Schools. Residents may provide testimony in person or submit written comments via email.

• Proposed 2022-2023 fiscal year budget
• Proposed Capital Improvement Program for FY 2023-2033

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed 2022-2023 fiscal year budget. One resident spoke, asking the council to lower the budget and noting that the mill rate decrease does not offset increased property assessments. No decisions were made; the hearing was closed and a second hearing scheduled for April 6, 2022.

• Opened public hearing on FY2022-23 budget (no vote)
• Closed public hearing at 2:15 PM (no vote)
• Scheduled second public hearing for April 6, 2022 at 6:00 PM

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review several petitions regarding property uses and building setbacks. The agenda includes requests for signage changes, a temporary showhouse, and construction variances for a garage and a home addition.

• Variance for 51 Brookside Boulevard to use the property as a Decorator Showhouse for three weeks
• Signage size variances for 983 New Britain Avenue
• Request to continue garage construction variance at 15 Bishop Road to April 20th
• Side yard and lot coverage variances for an addition at 96-98 South Quaker Lane

Town Council

The Town Council is reviewing the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2023. This review covers various municipal departments, including General Government, Information Technology, and Finance.

• Review of Proposed FY 2023 Budget
• Budget items for General Government, IT, and Finance
• Budget items for Human Resources, Library, and Facilities

The Town Council held a budget workshop and reviewed proposed FY 2022-23 budgets for several departments, including Corporation Counsel, Assessor's Office, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, Leisure and Social Services, Library, Facilities, and Non-Departmental. No formal decisions were made; the presentations were followed by questions and comments. Remaining department budgets will be reviewed at a later workshop.

• Reviewed proposed FY 2022-23 budgets for nine departments (no vote)
• Scheduled remaining department budgets for a future workshop

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will review housing options for seniors through a presentation on the New Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Ordinance. Members will also discuss selecting a designee and alternate for the New Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee. Additional reports cover senior transportation, job banks, and social services.

• Presentation on New Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Ordinance
• Selection of Designee & Alternate for New Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee
• Reports on senior transportation, job bank, and social services

The West Hartford Senior Citizens' Advisory Commission approved Beth Rocco as its representative and Rosemary Cleary as alternate to the New Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee. The meeting also included a presentation on Accessory Dwelling Units, updates from town departments, and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Approved Beth Rocco as representative to New Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee
• Approved Rosemary Cleary as alternate to New Elmwood Community Center Advisory Committee
• Approved January minutes (due to no quorum at prior meeting)
• Approved February notes as is (non-minutes due to no quorum)

General

The Special Bipartisan Committee on Voting Districts will discuss a proposed resolution to revise the boundaries of voting districts within West Hartford.

• Proposed resolution revising the boundaries of voting districts within West Hartford

The Special Bipartisan Committee on Voting Districts unanimously approved a proposed resolution revising the boundaries of West Hartford's voting districts, reducing the number from nine to eight and splitting precincts 1 and 4 into 1A/1B and 4A/4B. The map will be considered by the Town Council at its next meeting. The change is required to align with new state assembly district lines.

• Adopted revised voting district map (unanimous)
• Referred redistricting resolution to Town Council for consideration

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities will introduce a new member and receive a staff report from the Town ADA Coordinator. The agenda also includes an update on interactions with the Sustainability Commission and a presentation by the Deputy Emergency Management Director.

• Introduction of new ACPD member Christy Miller
• Staff report from Town ADA Coordinator Suzanne Oslander
• Update on interaction between ACPD and Sustainability Commission
• Guest presentation by Deputy Emergency Management Director Robert McCue

The commission heard reports on community emergency response training and ADA accessibility improvements at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Appointed Mary Silverberg as WHACPD representative to ECC Advisory Commission
• Accepted final report from Erin Conneely on Town Sustainability Commission work
• Accepted final report from Ann Mione on CERT training

Board of Assessors

The Board will review the 2021 Grand List Summary and minutes from the December 9, 2021 meeting. The agenda also includes several requests for tax-exempt status for various organizations.

• Review of the 2021 Grand List Summary
• Tax-exempt status request: West Hartford Women’s Chorale
• Tax-exempt status requests for organizations at 1 Abrahms Boulevard
• Tax-exempt status request: Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, Inc.
• Tax-exempt status request: Journey Home

The Board of Assessors approved a tax-exemption request for Hebrew Healthcare Inc. and voted to send a letter to Journey Home stating no action was taken because they own no property in West Hartford. Two other exemption requests, for Hebrew Home Hospital and Hebrew Community Services, were tabled pending additional information. The meeting was otherwise procedural, including approval of prior minutes.

• Approved tax-exempt status for Hebrew Healthcare Inc. personal property (unanimous)
• Tabled tax-exemption request for Hebrew Home Hospital pending Corporation Counsel input
• Tabled tax-exemption request for Hebrew Community Services pending additional information
• Approved sending letter to Journey Home stating no action taken (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Dec 9, 2021 and Feb 10, 2022 meetings (unanimous)

Prevention Council

The Council will review minutes from February and receive standing reports from various departments. The agenda includes a presentation regarding Mental Health Awareness Month.

• Presentation by Ginger Katz of the Courage to Speak Foundation on May 12
• Recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month
• Standing reports from Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge), and Prevention Partnership Coalition

The West Hartford Prevention Council approved the February minutes and discussed plans for Mental Health Month, including providing resources for parents. They also discussed a virtual presentation by Ginger Katz on substance abuse on May 12, with Carl Shields to check if it can replace the council's meeting. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved February 10 meeting minutes (moved by Bob Macca, seconded by Patty Graham)
• Discussed creating Mental Health Month resources for parents, with Kelly to obtain flyers for the Resource Fair
• Discussed Ginger Katz's virtual presentation on May 12, with Carl to explore making it the council's meeting

Special Services District

The District Manager will present the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2022-23 for transmission to the West Hartford Town Clerk. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from November 16, 2021.

• Presentation of Preliminary Budget for FY22-23
• Approval of Minutes of Meeting 11-16-2021

The West Hartford Center Special Services District Council approved the minutes from the November 16, 2021 meeting and set the preliminary FY22-23 budget for a public hearing on April 12, 2022 at 6:00 PM. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was brief and procedural.

• Approved minutes of 11-16-2021 (11-0)
• Set FY22-23 preliminary budget for public hearing on April 12, 2022 (11-0)

General

The West Hartford Town Council will hear public communications regarding potential donations for pandemic memorials and the Local Elderly Property Tax Freeze.

• Discussion of memorial donations including park benches, plaques, and planters
• Discussion regarding the Local Elderly Property Tax Freeze

The West Hartford Town Council held a community comment meeting with no substantive decisions. Two residents spoke: one about Boy Scout Troop 70 donations in honor of pandemic losses, and one about the Local Elderly Property Tax Freeze. The meeting adjourned after public comments.

• No formal decisions were made; meeting was for public comment only

Town Council

The Council will introduce the proposed 2022-2023 fiscal year budget for the town and schools. The agenda also includes ordinances regarding outdoor dining and ambulance vehicle tax exemptions, along with several commission appointments.

• Introduction of the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget
• Ordinance amending tax exemption procedure for ambulance-type vehicles
• Ordinance concerning outdoor dining
• Proposed signage revisions for Bishop's Corner Shopping Center
• Proposed architectural and landscape revisions for Corbins Corner Shopping Center

The West Hartford Town Council introduced the proposed 2022-2023 fiscal year budget and set public hearings for March 16 and April 6, 2022. The council also scheduled hearings on an ambulance tax exemption ordinance and an outdoor dining ordinance, referring the latter to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission. All actions were approved unanimously (9-0).

• Set public hearings for FY 2022-23 budget on March 16 and April 6 (9-0)
• Set public hearing for ambulance tax exemption ordinance on March 22 (9-0)
• Referred outdoor dining ordinance to TPZ and CRCOG, set hearing for April 12 (9-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including minutes and appointments (9-0)
• Appointed Elizabeth Rocco to Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
• Appointed Jim Fishman to Conservation and Environment Commission
• Appointed Dennis Swanton to Civilian Police Review Board as alternate
• Appointed Nichole Berklas to Fair Rent Commission

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding several development applications, including a school expansion at 300 Bloomfield Avenue and 24-hour operations for Planet Fitness. The agenda also includes reviews of inland wetlands permits for various town drainage and culvert projects.

• Special Use Permit for 24-hour operations at 245 Prospect Avenue
• Inland Wetlands and Watercourse permits for expansion at 300 Bloomfield Avenue
• Inland Wetlands permit for parking lot reconfiguration at 25 Kane Street
• Special Use Permit for shade structures at 25 Dover Road
• Compliance review for athletic field lighting at 1678 Asylum Avenue

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved several special use permits and wetland permits. It approved a 24-hour operations permit for Planet Fitness at 245 Prospect Avenue and a special use permit for the New England Jewish Academy expansion at 300 Bloomfield Avenue, both with conditions. The commission also approved wetland permits for the academy and for a parking lot reconfiguration at 25 Kane Street, and set public hearings for several other wetland applications.

• Approved 24-hour operations for Planet Fitness at 245 Prospect Ave (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for New England Jewish Academy expansion at 300 Bloomfield Ave (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for New England Jewish Academy expansion (4-1)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for parking lot work at 25 Kane St (5-0)
• Set public hearings for 6 wetland applications for April 4, 2022
• Determined no additional conditions needed for University of St. Joseph synthetic turf field (4-0)
• Approved special use permit for shade structures at St. Thomas the Apostle School (5-0)
• Recommended approval of SDD modification for Prospect Plaza (5-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review engineering updates, including the North Main Street Road Diet and 2022 road reconstruction projects. The meeting also includes discussions on a draft traffic calming report and Google Drive file management.

• North Main Street Road Diet update
• 2022 road reconstruction and resurfacing projects
• Draft Traffic Calming Report
• Google Drive file management usage

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will hear a presentation from the Sustainability Advisory Group. Staff will also provide updates regarding plants, facilities, public works, and sustainability. The meeting includes approval of minutes from January 6 and February 3, 2022.

• Presentation from the Sustainability Advisory Group
• Plant & Facility's Update
• Public Works Update
• Sustainability Update

The committee approved the January 6 and February 3, 2022 minutes, with an amendment to correct a time discrepancy in the Call to Order. The Sustainability Advisory Group presented recommendations, including forming a Sustainable West Hartford team, but no formal action was taken on them. Staff reports covered facility and public works updates, with no votes on those items.

• Approved January 6, 2022 minutes with amended time (unanimous)
• Approved February 3, 2022 minutes with amended time (unanimous)