Waterford meeting summaries, agendas, and minutes

Waterford approves $200K emergency water reserve; other boards act on fees, trees, traffic

The Board of Selectmen approved a $200,000 appropriation for a new Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve at its Aug. 18 meeting, the largest money action taken by any town board in the past two weeks. The board also declared a surplus mower, awarded a contract, and approved a tax refund.

Board of Selectmen

The board voted 3-0 to fund the reserve from the General Fund Balance. It also declared a 2016 Toro Groundsmaster mower surplus by a 2-1 vote, awarded a grass seed and fertilizer contract to Tom Irwin, Inc. (3-0), authorized the First Selectman to sign a CT DOT Master Municipal Agreement (3-0), and approved a tax refund of $5,952.83 (3-0). Minutes from Aug. 4 were approved 3-0.

Economic Development Commission

At its Aug. 12 meeting, the commission approved the SECTER annual municipal contribution of $8,806.95 by a 3-0 vote. It also approved minutes from March 11 and June 10, 2026, both 3-0.

Conservation Commission

The commission approved the removal of invasive tree-of-heaven trees at 2 Chapman Avenue as an as-of-right activity under Section 4.1(d) of the regulations, by a 6-0 vote. It also approved July 23 meeting minutes 5-0-1, with Ivy Plis abstaining.

Police Board

At its Aug. 10 meeting, the Board of Police Commissioners received a presentation from the Chief on a traffic plan for the anticipated 5,000 employees at General Electric Boat's Crystal Mall facility, including staggered work hours. No formal action was taken; the board only accepted routine reports and minutes.

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance met Aug. 12 to review the FY2026 fourth quarter capital project status report, according to the agenda. The report includes the new Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Project ($13,319,471 budget, contracts signed, construction to begin soon), conversion to State Radio System ($4,600,000 budget, $47,482 over budget), School Security ($2,082,900 budget, cameras installed at High School softball field and Quaker Hill school), Paving on Old Norwich Road ($1,053,000 budget, paving and stripping completed), and Library HVAC Upgrade ($1,596,278 budget, heating completed, A/C being tested). No votes were reported.

Other agenda items

The RTM Finance, Wage, & Personnel Committee met Aug. 12 to consider salaries for elected officials, a review of Ordinance 3.17 (Fleet Management), and a CIP Approval Process Pilot Program. No decisions were reported.

The Flood and Erosion Control Board met Aug. 17 to discuss an upcoming Alewife Cove co-refining solutions meeting on Aug. 20, the CT ECO Map, and a climate change risk vulnerability and adaptation study.

The Personnel Review Board met Aug. 20 to consider a new job description for an Economic Development Community Liaison.

The Waterford-East Lyme Shellfish Commission met Aug. 20 to discuss clam and oyster stock purchases, oyster shell restoration, an eelgrass restoration project, and the Niantic River closure.

Two meetings were cancelled: the Design Review Board and Planning & Zoning Commission, both scheduled for Aug. 11.

Coming up

The Representative Town Meeting will hold a special meeting Aug. 31. The agenda consists of two agenda and backup documents; no specific action items are listed.

Waterford RTM approves funding for sewer, water tank, and youth services

The Waterford Representative Town Meeting approved three funding items at its Aug. 3 meeting, including a $15,000 donation for Youth & Family Services, a $100,000 transfer for Cross Country sewer main access, and a $45,671 transfer for Fargo Road water tank maintenance. All three votes were unanimous. The RTM also voted 23-0-1 to take no action on a Public Comment Ordinance and instead charged the Education Committee with developing guidelines.

Representative Town Meeting

The RTM approved the following items unanimously:

• $15,000 donation from the Gardiner Family Foundation for Youth & Family Services
• $100,000 transfer for Cross Country sewer main access Phase Two
• $45,671 transfer for Fargo Road water tank maintenance

The board also approved the June 1, 2026 meeting minutes unanimously. On the Public Comment Ordinance, the vote was 23-0-1, with one abstention.

Zoning and Conservation

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a front setback variance for Owen and Gayle O'Neill at 156 Butlertown Road (ZBA-26-8) by a 5-0 vote. The board continued the application for 20 Laurel Street (ZBA-26-9) to Sept. 2, 2026, due to technical difficulties with the public hearing recording. Minutes from the July 1 meeting were approved 5-0.

The Conservation Commission approved the removal of invasive tree of heaven trees at 2 Chapman Avenue as an as-of-right activity under Section 4.1(d) of the regulations, by a 6-0 vote. The commission also approved the July 23 meeting minutes 5-0-1, with Ivy Plis abstaining.

Harbor and Shellfish

The Shellfish Commission authorized Chairman Porter to order $3,000 worth of little neck clams for restocking the recreational shellfishing area, which is currently closed due to heavy rainfall. The vote was unanimous. The commission also discussed interest from Josh Bakoulis in leasing Bay Point bottom land and will consult the Town Attorney regarding multiple interested parties.

The Harbor Management Commission approved the July 1 meeting minutes unanimously but deferred action on Three Belles Marina's proposal to install 20 buoys in the Niantic River, pending harbor master feedback and homeowner consultations. The commission also scheduled tagging of delinquent moorings for a future date when the harbor master is present.

Police and Fire

The Board of Police Commissioners accepted the July 13 meeting minutes unanimously and received routine reports. The board heard a presentation from the Chief on a traffic plan for the anticipated 5,000 employees at General Electric Boat's Crystal Mall facility, with staggered work hours to manage rush-hour congestion. No formal action was taken on the plan.

The Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Committee met Aug. 6 to review construction schedules and consider a request from Barton & Loguidice for additional funds for Phase III soil investigation and soil management plan. Minutes are not yet published.

Other meetings and cancellations

The Board of Selectmen met Aug. 4 and considered several appropriations and contract awards, including a $200,000 appropriation for a Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve, a $141,000 contract to Donnegan Systems, Inc. for police locker replacement, and a $178,000 contract to The Imperial Company for Goshen Fire Station Roof Replacement. Minutes are not yet published.

The Economic Development Commission met Aug. 12 to discuss an update on Electric Boat at Crystal Mall, the 2026 Plan of Conservation and Development, a part-time EDC Community Liaison position, and the SECTER annual membership fee of $8,806.95. The RTM Finance, Wage, & Personnel Committee met the same day to consider salaries for elected officials, a review of Ordinance 3.17 (Fleet Management), and a CIP Approval Process Pilot Program. The Board of Finance reviewed the FY2026 fourth quarter capital project status report, including the New Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Project ($13,319,471 budget) and the Conversion to State Radio System ($4,600,000 budget, $47,482 over budget).

The Aug. 11 meetings of the Design Review Board and the Planning & Zoning Commission were cancelled.

Coming up

The Board of Selectmen will meet Aug. 18 to vote on a $200,000 appropriation for the Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve, declare a 2016 Toro Groundsmaster mower surplus for auction on GovDeals, award a grass seed and fertilizer contract to Tom Irwin, Inc. via CRCOG Bid #789, and authorize the First Selectman to sign a CT DOT Master Municipal Agreement for Rights of Way Projects. Public comment is scheduled.

Waterford Utility Commission accepts 2027 rate increases, schedules public hearing

The Utility Commission accepted recommended 2027 utility rates and scheduled a public hearing for August 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The decision, made unanimously at the July 28 meeting, follows the Raftelis Rate Study and will affect residential and business utility bills next year.

Utility Commission

The commission voted unanimously to accept the recommended 2027 rates from the Raftelis Rate Study. It also approved the July 2026 bill lists and authorized writing off identified charges to bad debt for 207 Boston Post Rd. The public hearing on the proposed rate increase is set for August 25 at 6:00 PM. Minutes from the June 23, 2026 meeting were also approved unanimously.

Design Review Board

The regular meeting scheduled for July 28, 2026 was cancelled. No items were considered.

Recreation & Parks Commission

The commission met on July 28 with an agenda limited to procedural items: approval of June 23, 2026 minutes, staff reports from Director Ryan McNamara, Assistant Director Tim Cieplik, and Program Coordinator Nolan Clack, plus committee and representative reports. No decisions or public hearings were on the agenda.

Representative Town Meeting Committee

On July 30, the Public Health, Recreation & Environment Committee will consider a proposal to raise the non-resident annual beach parking fee from $175 to $250 for the 2026 season. The committee will also review Ordinance Chapter 12.12 regarding Jordan Park House, approve minutes from April 16, 2025, and elect a new chair. These items are under review; no vote has been taken.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen agenda for August 4 includes several appropriations and contract awards, all pending action:

• $200,000 for a Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve for FY27
• $141,000 contract to Donnegan Systems, Inc. for police locker replacement
• $178,000 for flat roof replacement at Fire Station #3-Goshen
• $178,000 contract to The Imperial Company for the Goshen Fire Station roof replacement
• FY26 transfers of $60,668 (in-series) and $112,092 (out-of-series)

No votes have been reported yet.

Shellfish Commission

The commission will consider authorizing Chairman Porter to order certified little neck clams and oysters for restocking the recreational shellfishing area. It will also discuss Tim Londregan's interest in leasing Bay Point bottom land for commercial use, online recreational permit sales, public outreach, and updates on commercial lease renewals. All items are agenda items only.

Harbor Management Commission

On August 5, the commission will review the Harbor Master's report on debris removal in the Niantic River, progress on the amended Harbor Management Plan, 2026 mooring applications, and a grant-funded dock repair celebration held at Mago Point on July 29. A proposal from Three Belles for a 'Save the River, Save the Hills' event and participation in the Waterford Day Parade are also on the agenda. No decisions have been reported.

Coming up

The Utility Commission public hearing on the proposed 2027 rate increases will be held August 25 at 6:00 PM. No other upcoming meetings are listed for the next two weeks.

Waterford utility rates, road contracts, and timber harvest approved in busy meeting week

Utility Commission accepts 2027 rate increases; public hearing set for August 25

The Utility Commission voted unanimously to accept recommended 2027 utility rates based on the Raftelis Rate Study and scheduled a public hearing for August 25, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. The study is aimed at making the Enterprise Fund self-sufficient. The RTM's Public Works, Planning & Development Committee reviewed the same study on July 20 but took no action, tabling the matter pending the public hearing. The proposed increases would be the first since 2009.

The Utility Commission also approved July 2026 bill lists and voted unanimously to write off identified charges to bad debt for 207 Boston Post Rd.

Board of Selectmen approves road contracts and budget transfers

The Board of Selectmen approved road maintenance contracts for three vendors — Atlas Fence, Safety Markings, and American Pipe & CB Cleaning — on a 2-1 vote. The Board also approved two budget transfers: a $10,000 FY27 in-series transfer for Fire Services equipment repair (3-0) and a $31 FY26 out-of-series transfer for Ethics (3-0).

On surplus equipment, the Board voted 2-1 to surplus a 2009 International WorkStar 7400 (Asset #100475) for auction and a 2014 International WorkStar 7400 (Asset #1011264). The 2014 truck was reassigned to the Waterford Utility Commission on a 3-0 vote. A request to surplus a 2016 Toro Groundsmaster 10' Mower (Asset #101451) was tabled 2-1. The Board also tabled approval of its July 7, 2026 meeting minutes 3-0.

Conservation Commission approves timber harvest and wetland restoration

The Conservation Commission approved a timber harvest at 36 Pepperbox Road as an as-of-right activity (6-0) and approved a non-encroachment area restoration plan for 22A Avery Lane with a completion date of May 15, 2027 (6-0). The commission accepted its draft 2025/2026 annual report (6-0) and approved July 9, 2026 minutes (5-0-1).

RTM committees review ethics rules, beach fees, and safety ordinances

The Legislation & Administration Committee agreed to revise Ethics Ordinance 2.50 to dismiss complaints if the complainant breaches confidentiality and to require separate complaints for multiple individuals. The committee determined the town attorney's input is needed for key definitions before final recommendations are made. It tabled discussion on RTM committee assignment recommendations.

The Public Protection & Safety Standing Committee was scheduled to review street takeover ordinances from Danbury, New Britain, Groton, and Sterling, along with traffic enforcement camera policies from Washington and Middletown. The committee also planned to discuss codifying duties for the Director of Fire Services and revising the Mass Gatherings ordinance (Chapter 9.08), comparing New London and East Lyme codes. Minutes for that meeting have not yet been published.

The Public Health, Recreation & Environment Committee was set to review a proposal raising the non-resident annual beach parking fee from $175 to $250 for the 2026 season, along with a possible amendment to the Jordan Park House ordinance (Chapter 12.12). Minutes have not yet been published.

Fleet Management Committee approves equipment swap

The Ad Hoc Fleet Management Committee unanimously approved a request to modify the FY2027 Fleet Management Plan, replacing one piece of equipment (P63) with two items for a savings of $201.

Design Review Board meeting cancelled

The July 28, 2026 Design Review Board meeting was cancelled.

Coming up

• **August 4 — Board of Selectmen:** Will consider a $200,000 appropriation for a Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve for FY27, a $141,000 contract to Donnegan Systems, Inc. for police locker replacement, and a $178,000 appropriation and contract with The Imperial Company for flat roof replacement at Fire Station #3-Goshen.
• **August 4 — Shellfish Commission:** Will consider authorizing purchase of certified little neck clams and oysters for restocking the recreational shellfishing area, and discuss commercial leasing interest for Bay Point bottom land.
• **August 5 — Harbor Management Commission:** Will review 2026 mooring applications, progress on the amended Harbor Management Plan, and a proposal from Three Belles for a river conservation event.
• **August 25 — Utility Commission:** Public hearing on proposed 2027 rate increases, 6:00 p.m.

Waterford roundup: Selectmen approve $261,744 finance transfer; police vacancy offered to Alexander Wojcik

Waterford's Board of Selectmen approved a series of budget transfers July 7, including a $261,744 finance transfer for various operational costs and a $45,233.43 fire services appropriation for employee payouts. The Board of Police Commissioners, meeting July 13, voted unanimously to offer a current police vacancy to Alexander Wojcik, contingent on completion of the hiring process.

Board of Selectmen — July 7

The board approved eight funding actions, all on 3-0 votes except one:

• $50,000 police transfer to animal control budget (3-0)
• $45,233.43 fire services appropriation for employee payouts (3-0)
• $25,900 youth and family services transfer (3-0)
• $25,000 finance transfer for employee complaint (2-1)
• $3,000 finance transfer for retiree benefits (3-0)
• $261,744 finance transfer for various operational costs (3-0)
• $66,062 finance transfer for automotive repairs and maintenance (3-0)
• $56,000 finance transfer for fire station shifts and storm cleanup (3-0)

The $25,000 finance transfer for an employee complaint was the only item that did not pass unanimously.

Board of Police Commissioners — July 13

The board accepted June 8 minutes and approved two traffic warning sign installations, both unanimously: "Blind Child" signs on Laurel Crest Drive and "Blind Person" signs near 73 Spithead Road. The board entered executive session for officer candidate interviews and later offered the vacancy to Alexander Wojcik, pending hiring completion. The meeting adjourned at 6:21 p.m.

Conservation Commission — July 9

All motions passed 5-0. The commission approved May 14 minutes, granted the owner of 22A Avery Lane an additional 30 days to submit a wetland boundary demarcation plan, concurred with staff that the 21 Sixth Avenue building permit involves no regulated activity, and renewed CACIWC membership for FY 26/27 at $75. The meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.

Ethics Commission — July 7

The commission seated alternate Paul Helvig (5-0-1), approved April 7 minutes (6-0), and approved a $30.99 transfer from Professional Fees to Clerical (6-0). Members discussed updating the commission's ordinance and procedures for storing records for future members.

Shellfish Commission — July 8

The commission approved minutes from June 2 and June 16 and the monthly treasurer's report through June 2026. Recreational shellfish fishing areas remain closed due to heavy rainfall.

Meetings cancelled

The Economic Development Commission (July 8), Design Review Board (July 14), Planning & Zoning Commission (July 14), and Personnel Review Board (July 16) all cancelled their regular meetings. The Personnel Review Board's next meeting is August 20.

Agenda-only items (no decisions recorded)

Several bodies met or are scheduled with agendas published but minutes not yet available:

• **Library Board of Trustees (July 14):** To elect 2026-2027 officers, consider appointing Laura Erickson as Temporary Interim Director, and review requests for $3,000 (Meeting Room A/V Replacement) and $1,000 (Staff Appreciation Dinner).
• **RTM Finance, Wage & Personnel Committee (July 14):** To consider salaries of elected officials, review of Ordinance 3.17 Fleet Management, and a CIP Approval Process Pilot Program.
• **Board of Finance (July 15):** To review FY26 and FY27 appropriations including $45,234 for Fire Services, $100,000 for Cross Country Sewer Main Access, $45,671 for Water Tank Management, and out-of-series transfers totaling $383,744.
• **Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Committee (July 16):** To consider invoice payments, building permit status, and a recommendation to defer the change order process pending the return of Steve Smith.
• **Shellfish Commission (July 16):** To discuss clam and oyster stock purchases and approval limits for the Chair on boat items.
• **Historic Properties Commission (July 14):** To discuss maintenance for Nevins Cottage, the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, and cemeteries.

Coming up

• **July 20 — RTM Public Works, Planning & Development Committee:** Will review findings of the sewer rate study, the Fair Rent Commission, and short-term rentals.
• **July 20 — RTM Legislation & Administration Committee:** Will review Ethics Ordinance 2.50 and the RTM committee assignment recommendation process.
• **July 21 — Board of Selectmen:** Will consider road maintenance contracts for guardrails, line striping, and catch basin cleaning, plus surplus of a 2009 International WorkStar 7400 and a 2016 Toro Groundsmaster mower, and reassignment of a 2014 International WorkStar 7400 from Public Works to the Utility Commission.
• **July 30 — RTM Public Health, Recreation & Environment Committee:** Will consider raising the non-resident annual beach parking fee from $175 to $250 for the 2026 season, and review Jordan Park House ordinance (Chapter 12.12).

Waterford meeting roundup: Dock permit approved, selectmen eyed $261,744 transfer, several meetings cancelled

The Harbor Management Commission approved a dock restoration permit at 54 Shore Road at its July 1 meeting, finding the project consistent with the town's Harbor Management Plan. The decision was the most concrete action among a light stretch of Waterford government meetings, several of which were cancelled or held without published minutes.

Harbor Management Commission

On July 1, the commission reviewed a Connecticut DEEP permit for dock restoration at 54 Shore Road and found the scope consistent with the Harbor Management Plan, with no interference to harbor activities. Commissioners approved the June 3, 2026 meeting minutes unanimously. The commission also agreed to send reminder emails to 25 mooring applicants who have not yet responded and to work with the Town Attorney to update the Harbor Management Plan and maps over the fall and winter. Members discussed an upcoming meeting with Three Belles about a kayak trail.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals held public hearings on July 1 for two residential variance applications involving setbacks and lot coverage. No final decisions were recorded for either application. The board approved minutes from its April 1, 2026 meeting (4-0-1) and its May 14, 2026 meeting (5-0).

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen met July 7 with a packed financial agenda, but minutes have not yet been published, so outcomes are not confirmed. Items on the agenda included a $261,744 FY26 out-of-series transfer covering training, ADP fees, software, contractual obligations, phone and fuel costs, life insurance, and blizzard overtime. Also listed were a $162,214 contract to US Digital Designs for the Oswegatchie Fire Alerting System, a $50,000 transfer from the police budget to animal control to offset a deficit, a $45,233 additional appropriation for a fire employee accrued-time payout, and a $25,900 in-series transfer for Youth & Family Services due to incorrect revenue charging. An appointment to the Economic Development Commission was also scheduled.

Ethics Commission

The Ethics Commission met July 7 and seated alternate Paul Helvig (5-0-1). Members approved April 7, 2026 meeting minutes (6-0) and approved a transfer of $30.99 from Professional Fees to Clerical (6-0) to cover a clerical overage. The commission discussed ongoing efforts to update its ordinance and reviewed procedures for storing records for future members.

Other meetings

The Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Committee met July 3 to review June minutes, invoice payments, and building permit status. A change order process was deferred pending the return of Steve Smith, and the construction schedule was discussed. Minutes have not been published.

The Shellfish Commission met July 8 to review minutes, the treasurer's report, and monitoring data. Agenda items included Riverside Grocery permit sales collection, online recreational permit sales, public outreach, and commercial shellfish lease renewals. Minutes have not been published.

The July 8 Economic Development Commission meeting was cancelled. No business was conducted.

The Conservation Commission met July 9 to approve May 14, 2026 minutes and discuss a proposed garage reconstruction at 21 Sixth Avenue. Minutes have not been published.

Coming up

• **Board of Police Commissioners** — July 13: Speed study data for upper Oswegatchie Road, a 'No Parking' sign on Cedar Street, executive session for officer candidate interviews, and a Life Saving Award for Officer Stephen Colkos.
• **Library Board of Trustees** — July 14: Annual meeting to elect 2026-2027 officers, consider appointing Laura Erickson as Temporary Interim Director, and review requests for $3,000 (Meeting Room A/V Replacement) and $1,000 (Staff Appreciation Dinner).
• **Historic Properties Commission** — July 14: Ongoing maintenance discussions covering Nevins Cottage, the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, and cemeteries.
• **Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Committee** — July 16: Change order deferral, building permit status, and construction schedule update.
• **Waterford/East Lyme Shellfish Commission** — July 16: Potential clam and oyster stock purchases, Chair approval limits for boat items, and correspondence on a Niantic River closure.

The July 14 Design Review Board and Planning & Zoning Commission meetings are both cancelled.

Waterford selectmen approve utility and school tech spending; zoning board denies parkway zone change

Waterford's Board of Selectmen approved more than $414,000 in utility and school technology appropriations at its June 23 meeting, while the Planning & Zoning Commission denied a zone change for 140 Waterford Parkway South in a split vote.

Board of Selectmen

The selectmen approved two Utility Commission appropriations: $100,000 for the Cross Country Sewer Main Access project (3-0) and $45,671 for the Water Tank Management program (3-0).

On Board of Education technology purchases, the board's path was less straightforward. A motion to table the initial Chromebook and desktop computer contract failed. The board then amended the Apple Inc. contract to remove desktop computers (3-0) before approving a $46,389 Apple Inc. Chromebook contract (2-1). It also approved a $222,353 Meraki network upgrade contract with Total Communications, Inc. (3-0).

A June 22 selectmen agenda had outlined a larger set of items for review, including a proposed $200,000 addition to the Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve and $691,188 in total school computer contracts. Minutes for that session have not yet been published.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission denied a zone change for 140 Waterford Parkway South from IP-1 to I-MF and R-40, citing traffic, utility, and planning concerns. The vote was 2-3.

The commission approved a coastal site plan (PL-26-12) for a new home at 8 Race Rock Road (5-0) and granted a 90-day extension for a subdivision at 97 Spithead Road (5-0).

Harbor Management Commission

On July 1, the commission reviewed a Connecticut DEEP permit for dock restoration at 54 Shore Road and found the scope consistent with the Harbor Management Plan, with no interference to harbor activities. Commissioners agreed by consensus.

The commission also approved its June 3 meeting minutes unanimously, agreed to send reminder emails to 25 mooring applicants who have not yet responded, and agreed to work with the Town Attorney to update the Harbor Management Plan and maps over the fall and winter. Members discussed an upcoming meeting with Three Belles about a kayak trail.

Meetings cancelled

The Design Review Board's June 23 meeting and the Conservation Commission's June 25 meeting were both cancelled. The Conservation Commission is scheduled to resume regular business on July 9.

Agenda-only items

Several bodies met or are set to meet with only agenda information available:

• The Recreation & Parks Commission on June 23 was scheduled to consider a facility fee waiver request for the Tom Thurlow Class of 1975 pavilion reunion.
• The Utility Commission on June 23 was set to discuss a water rate study update, the interlocal water agreement with the City of New London and Veolia, and personnel reviews for a Sewer Tech 1 and Compliance Enforcement Tech.
• The Zoning Board of Appeals on July 1 was scheduled to hear variance requests ZBA-26-8 at 156 Butlertown Road and ZBA-26-9 at 20 Laurel Street.
• The Oswegatchie Fire Station Building Committee on July 3 was set to review invoice payments, a building permit, and a change order process deferred pending Steve Smith's return.

Coming up

• **Board of Selectmen, July 7:** Will vote on a $261,744 FY26 out-of-series transfer covering training, software, contractual obligations, and blizzard overtime; a $162,214 contract with US Digital Designs for the Oswegatchie Fire Alerting System; a $50,000 transfer from police to animal control to offset a deficit; a $45,233 appropriation for fire employee accrued time payout; and a $25,900 in-series transfer for Youth & Family Services. An appointment to the Economic Development Commission is also on the agenda.
• **Ethics Commission, July 7:** Will review a $30.99 budget transfer from Professional Fees and discuss storage of procedural notes, plus an update from the RTM Legislation and Administration Subcommittee.
• **Shellfish Commission, July 8:** Will discuss commercial shellfish lease renewals, Riverside Grocery permit sales collection, online recreational permit sales, and the treasurer's report.

Waterford roundup: Zone change denied; Selectmen OK $414K in spending

The Planning & Zoning Commission denied a zone change for a property at 140 Waterford Parkway South, while the Board of Selectmen approved more than $400,000 in utility and technology spending, including a new network upgrade and a Chromebook purchase. Those were the most consequential decisions in Waterford town government in the past two weeks.

Zone change denied at 140 Waterford Parkway South

At its June 23 meeting, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 2-3 to deny a request to change the zoning of 140 Waterford Parkway South from IP-1 to I-MF and R-40. The motion cited traffic, utility, and planning concerns as the basis for denial.

In other actions the same evening, the commission unanimously approved a coastal site plan (PL-26-12) for a new home at 8 Race Rock Road. The vote was 5-0. Commissioners also granted a 90-day extension for a subdivision at 97 Spithead Road, also by a 5-0 vote.

Selectmen approve sewer, water, and tech funds

The Board of Selectmen authorized four spending measures on June 23, totaling roughly $414,413. Two appropriations advanced from the Utility Commission: $100,000 for a Cross Country Sewer Main Access project and $45,671 for the Water Tank Management program. Both passed 3-0.

On the technology side, the board first rejected a motion to table the initial Chromebook and desktop computer contract. It then voted 3-0 to amend an Apple Inc. contract, removing desktop computers from the purchase. The amended Apple Inc. Chromebook contract, valued at $46,389, was approved on a 2-1 vote. Separately, a $222,353 network upgrade contract with Total Communications, Inc. for Meraki equipment was approved 3-0. The $200,000 addition to the Water Distribution System Emergency Capital Reserve that appeared on the June 22 agenda was not voted on.

Harbor commission finds dock restoration consistent with plan

Meeting on July 1, the Harbor Management Commission reviewed a Connecticut DEEP dock restoration permit for 54 Shore Road and reached a consensus that the scope is consistent with the Harbor Management Plan, with no interference to harbor activities. The commission also agreed to send reminder emails to 25 mooring applicants who had not responded and to work with the Town Attorney over the fall and winter to update the Harbor Management Plan and maps.

Two other meetings were cancelled during the period: the Design Review Board on June 23 and the Conservation Commission on June 25.

Coming up

The Board of Selectmen meets July 7 with a packed agenda. Members will consider a $261,744 out-of-series budget transfer covering training, ADP fees, software, contractual obligations, phone and fuel costs, life insurance, and blizzard overtime. Also on the table: a $162,214 contract with US Digital Designs for an Oswegatchie Fire Alerting System; a $50,000 transfer from police to the animal control budget to offset a deficit; a $45,233 additional appropriation for a fire employee’s accrued time payout; and a $25,900 in-series transfer for Youth & Family Services.

The Ethics Commission meets the same evening to approve a $30.99 budget line item transfer and discuss how procedural notes are stored. On July 8, the Shellfish Commission will discuss commercial shellfish lease renewals and the collection of recreational permit sales through Riverside Grocery.