Tolland Democratic Town Committee Newsletter
Update from Your Town Council Chair, Steve Jones:
Good Afternoon, and a happy Mother’s Day weekend neighbors! Please see below a review of our regular town council meeting to be held on May 9th.
On Tuesday, May 9th the Town Council first read into the record a proclamation recognizing International Firefighters Day, which was on Thursday May 4th. The Council sent a care package in appreciation as well on Thursday.
Following this reading, the Town Council completed five new items of business. The first was a general budget discussion and a consideration of a resolution to establish the mill rate based on the passage of the budget at referendum on May 2nd. Discussions around making proposed cuts on the town’s portion of the budget increase more transparent in future years were had prior to unanimous approval.
The next two items of business set public hearings for Tuesday, May 23rd. The first public hearing is a consideration for supplemental appropriations for a bridge improvement project across the Willimantic River at South River Road, which will be reimbursed 100% by state and federal funding by allowing the Town Manager to accept the reward after funds are allocated by the town up front. The town may or may not issue debt depending on the cash flow and cash on hand. Grant anticipation notes may need to be issued. If this is the case, the council will be asked to authorize this action. The council unanimously approved setting the public hearing.
The second public hearing item are revisions to Ordinance 60, Tolland’s local tax relief program for seniors or disabled homeowners. The program is proposed to be revised from a flat freeze based on the home’s assessed value to a credit program with annual increases in the credit. Council members requested the proposed changes be adjusted so that the starting credit is increased from a proposed $250 to $300, and that the reapplication period be conducted every three years instead of every two years.
The intent of these changes will maintain benefit levels for those households under the current plan or expand their credit, simplify implementing the program going forward for staff and improve participation by making the application process easier. The council unanimously approved setting this public hearing as well.
The fourth item of business was a consideration of a resolution to authorize the Town Manager to submit an application for the Department of Agriculture’s Farm Viability Grant. This grant will award up to $5,000 to the Agriculture commission to develop new marketing materials and other projects to support the new farmer’s market on the Tolland Green. The state will offer a 60% match and the town will cover the remaining 40% of whatever is awarded. The Town Council unanimously approved this resolution.
The final item of business is appointing a new member to the Tolland Housing Authority, who was approved unanimously by the Town Council.
To review the minutes and packet, please visit:
May 9th Meeting Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/725858914.pdf
May 9th Regular Meeting Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/2023-05-09_regular_meeting…
Town Manager’s May Report – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/2023-05-09_mnanger_report…
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. I hope everyone has a great Mother’s Day Weekend, however you celebrate, and consider visiting any of our restaurants or shops for a celebratory meal/gift. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council regarding town-related topics, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
I also hope you will join multiple elected officials for our ‘Open House’ on Wednesday, May 17th from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at the Tolland Fire Training Center located on Merrow Road. For more details, please visit https://www.tollandct.gov/…/tolland-open-house-may-17-2023 .
April 21, 2023 Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Morning, and a happy Friday to you neighbors! From the Council Chair, please see below a review of our budget presentation on April 19th and a preview of our special and regular town council meetings to be held on April 25th.
On Wednesday, April 19th the Town Council convened for the charter required presentation of the proposed budget. A high-level review of expenditures, revenues and referendum information was presented.
On Tuesday, April 25th the Town Council will first be convening for a special meeting site walk at the ‘Tolland Marsh’ property off cider mill known, commonly known as the Hatch Property or Lyle Thorpe property. This land was previously purchased by a resident who has interest in providing it to the town for recreation purposes. Both the town as well as the conservation commission have engaged in activities to seek out grants from the state to help with the cost of taking ownership of this property and have proposed plans for various recreational trails, ADA accessible parking and kayak/canoe pathways for fishing.
Following that meeting, the council will reconvene for our second regular meeting of the month. The first item of business will be presenting a proclamation to Mr. Leon H. Parker for his 50 years of service to the Town of Tolland in the Public Works Department.
The Town Council will then convene for a public hearing to amend a revise chapter 20, subsection 20-3 of the Town code (Ordinance 91) regarding fire mitigation rates for fire and rescue. Rates are being adjusted and increased to align with current industry standards based on the consultation of Fire Recovery USA, which provides consultation to 10 departments in CT including Tolland as well as clients in 43 other states.
After the public hearing, the Town Council will meet with resident Bob Rubino, Tax Assessor Jason Lawrence and Human Services Director Beverly Bellody to discuss improvements and changes to Tolland’s Ordinance 60 tax relief program. This program is designed specifically for permanently disabled residents and senior residents of Tolland. They will provide a review of the current program and costs and scenarios that would increase use of the program if revised to a stepped-benefit program.
April 19th Meeting Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/722058314.pdf
April 25th Special Meeting Agenda – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/722047182.pdf
April 25th Regular Meeting Agenda – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/722047210.pdf
April 25th Regular Meeting Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2023-04-25_regular_meeting_packet.pdf
Town Manager’s April Report – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2023-04-11_town_managers_report_with_attachments.pdf
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council regarding the budget and other town-related topics, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Links for Minutes:
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/715163620.pdf
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/718114662.pdf
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/720514071.pdf
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/720541718.pdf
March 17th Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Morning, and a Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Tolland! From the council chair, providing a review of our March 14th regular meeting, our first two budget sessions and a preview of our upcoming meetings.
On Tuesday, March 14th the Town Council met for our first regular meeting. Two proclamations were read into the record recognizing Women’s History Month and Developmental Disability Awareness Month.
Following these readings, the Council unanimously authorized the Town Manager to enter into a contract with the State Library Association for a Historic Documents Preservation Grant. This $6,000-dollar grant will assist with the restoration and preservation of 60 original linen and paper maps.
The Town Council then reconvened on March 15th and 16th to review portions of the Town Manager’s proposed budget. On March 15th the Town Council received an overview of the budget and presentations for the Public Works (Highway and Parks & Facilities), Law Enforcement and Community Services (Human Services, Library and Recreation), with questions answered by department heads and the Town Manager. March 16th included a review of Finance, Public Safety and General Government expenditures with questions answered by various department heads and the town manager.
Finally, on March 20th, the Town Council will review Planning & Community Development, Board of Education and Solid Waste, with questions to be answered by department heads, the Board of Education Superintendent and the town manager. Public Comment on all Department presentations will be available at this time and is encouraged.
On Thursday, March 23rd, the Town Council will hold the Public Hearing on the Town Manager’s Proposed Budget. Public Participation is also highly encouraged.
To view the budget in its entirety, please visit https://town-tolland-ct-budget-book.cleargov.com/7169/introduction/transmittal-letter as a starting point and browse the various sections of this website to view all budget-related documents that discuss the town’s revenues, expenditures, capital debt, etc.
To view the March 14th meeting information, please check out –
Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/do…
Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2023-03-14_regular_meeting_packet_0.pdf
To view the budget meeting presentations, visit the following links (March 23rd Agenda is pending):
March 20th – (agenda, presentation pending) https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712636864.pdf
March 23rd Agenda – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/715347311.pdf
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council regarding the budget and other town-related topics, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Links to minutes:
March 10th Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Afternoon, and a happy Friday neighbors! From the council chair, providing a review of our March 14th regular Town Council meeting and our upcoming budget sessions.
On Tuesday, March 14th the Town Council will meet for our regular meeting. Two proclamations will be read into the record recognizing Women’s History Month and Developmental Disability Awareness Month.
Following these readings, the Council will consider a resolution authorizing the Town Manager to enter into a contract with the State Library Association for a Historic Documents Preservation Grant. This $6,000-dollar grant will assist with the restoration and preservation of 60 original linen and paper maps.
The Town Council will then reconvene on March 15th, 16th and 20th to review the Town Manager’s proposed budget. The Town Manager’s proposed budget includes a total expenditure increase of 3.4% and a mill rate increase of .85 mills or 2.32%. If approved, Tolland’s mill rate would then be set to 37.43 for Real Estate and Personal Property. The mill rate for Motor Vehicles is capped at 32.46 mills.
On March 15th the Town Council will receive an overview of the budget and presentations for the Public Works (Highway and Parks & Facilities), Law Enforcement and Community Services (Human Services, Library and Recreation), with questions answered by department heads. March 16th includes a review of Finance, Public Safety and General Government expenditures with questions answered by various department heads. Finally, on March 20th, the Town Council will review Planning & Community Development, Board of Education and Solid Waste, with questions answered by department heads and the Board of Education Superintendent.
Public Comment on all Department presentations will be available at this time and is encouraged.
On Thursday, March 23rd, the Town Council will hold the Public Hearing on the Town Manager’s Proposed Budget.
To view the budget in its entirety, please visit https://town-tolland-ct-budget-book.cleargov.com/…/tran… as a starting point and browse the various sections of this website to view all budget-related documents that discuss the town’s revenues, expenditures, capital debt, etc.
To view the March 14th meeting information, please check out –
Agenda – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/do…
Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/2023-03-14_regular_meeting…
To view the budget meeting agendas, visit the following links (March 23rd Agenda is pending):
March 15th – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712636676.pdf
March 16th – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712636766.pdf
March 20th – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712636864.pdf
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council regarding the budget and other town-related topics, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/706153272.pdf
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712043951.pdf
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/710216908.pdf
https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712634739.pdf
March 3rd Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Weekly Update from our Town Council Chair, Steve Jones:
Good Afternoon, and a happy first Friday of March! From the council chair, providing a review of our February 28th regular Town Council meeting
On Tuesday, February 28th, the Town Council met for our second regular meeting of the month. First, a proclamation congratulating Emma Tremblay on receiving their Gold Award from the Girl Scouts, the highest honor in their organization, was read into the record after being presented to her at a special event held on Sunday the 26th.
Following this recognition were two regular business items. The council first unanimously authorized the finance director to sign documentation that will allow for settlement funds from claims against various pharmaceutical distributors and manufacturers to be deposited into the Capital Non-Recurring Expenditure Fund (CNRE). These settlements include payments that will be disbursed over the next six to 15 years.
Questions were asked by council-members regarding the use of these funds and which local organizations could have access to these funds to combat opioid-related issues in our community. There will be an upcoming seminar held by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) regarding appropriate use of these funds as well.
The second item of business was a unanimous approval of several ARPA Subcommittee recommendations. These recommendations from the town’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) included Tolland Intermediate School updates to a seclusion room and their Nurse’s area as well as a public works heavy duty truck for a total of up to $394,000 being taken off long-term debt obligations.
Additionally, funding for Phase II of a forestry management plan for the Conservation Commission at $15,000, a variety of field improvements for the Tolland Little League at $63,000, and an Ice Skating Rink Replacement through the Recreation department for up to $10,000 were also unanimously approved. Inquiries were also made by council members regarding ARPA requests from other departments and efforts to utilize remaining funds to assist the Economic Development Commission or economic development in general.
After these approvals, Tolland will have $2,368,964.62 remaining for use towards other expenditures.
The Tolland Town Manager Brian Foley also provided an update on several ongoing initiatives in the town, including ADA Accessibility projects, potential sale of the Tolland Water system, returning the farmer’s Market to the Tolland Green and other projects.
For the February 28th meeting minutes and packet, please visit:
Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/712634739.pdf
Meeting Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/february_28_2023_council…
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. As the Town moves forward in the community planning and budget conversation, please check out https://www.tollandct.gov/…/uploads/budget_schedule_12.pdf for the full schedule of upcoming meetings and hearings for March. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Have a great weekend and stay safe on the roadways as more winter weather makes its way through our region!
February 9th Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Afternoon, and a very warm Friday neighbors! I hope you are all taking time to enjoy the warmer temperatures. From the Council Chair, below is a review of our Capital Budget Public Hearing held on Thursday, February 9th and a preview of our regular council meeting, to be held on Tuesday, February 14th.
On Thursday, the Town Council convened for our first formal meeting of the 2023-2024 budget process with a public hearing on the proposed capital budget. Discussions regarding various plans for capital equipment purchases over the next five years were held for public works, public safety, the school systems and more.
To find the agenda for the Capital Budget Public Hearing, please click here – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/707440781.pdf
For the 5-year Capital Budget plan , please visit – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/december_8_2022_five-year_capital_budget-condensed.pdf
For the capital budget presentation, please check out – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2023-02-09_revised_with_debt_capital_budget_public_hearing_presentation_brian_revised-condensed_0.pdf
On Tuesday, February 14th, the Town Council will be have two new items of discussion at our meeting. The town council will first hold a discussion of our town’s health benefits plan with Seth LaVigne of Lockton.
Following this discussion, the town council will review and discuss a proposal to acquire the Tolland Marsh from owner Adam Grossman as well as proposed trail systems and parking that could be developed within the parcel. This acquisition would be assisted through applying for a state grant, which would require the town to provide a 20% match to the purchase, which is currently estimated at $300,000. The town’s contribution would be $60,000 from our Open Space account, which has roughly $590,738.65 in their account.
To view the meeting packet, please visit – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/february_14_2023_council_packet.pdf
For the meeting agenda, click here – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/708914264.pdf
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Board of Education, Wednesday, 2/8/23, 7 pm; agenda: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/707871558.pdf
Town Council Capital Budget Public Hearing, Thursday, 2/9/23, 7 pm; agenda: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/707440781.pdf
See the Tolland Board of Education Budget page here: https://tps.sharpschool.net/board_of_education/budget/budget_documents
Here are the updates from your Town Council. See links for meeting minutes:
February 5th Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Evening, and an especially chilly First Friday of February neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a preview of our Capital Budget Public Hearing to be held on Thursday, February 9th.
But first, please be sure to prepare yourselves for the incoming drops in temperature and high wind chill factors. A summary of that information can be found here – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/information-help-you… , and more specifically here https://www.tollandct.gov/…/cold_weather_safety11.pdf for cold weather safety tips.
On Thursday, the Town Council will convene for our first formal meeting of the 2023-2024 budget process with a public hearing on the proposed capital budget. This is a presentation by the Town Manager and staff, followed by questions from Town Council and then questions or input from the public.
To find the agenda for the Capital Budget Public Hearing, please click here – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/707440781.pdf
For the 5-year Capital Budget plan, please visit – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/december_8_2022_five-year…
To view the full budget schedule, check out – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/uploads/budget_schedule_12.pdf
And for a guide to the budget process itself, you can view it here – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/citizens_guide_to_the_town…
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
January 30, 2023
A STATEMENT FROM OUR TDTC CHAIR, RYAN MCCANN:
We are heartbroken for the family of Tyre Nichols as we all bear witness to the sickening video of his fatal beating in Memphis. January is not yet over, and mass shootings and senseless acts of violence continue to be a daily occurrence. Many are angry, outraged, overwhelmed, looking for blame or feeling hopeless. We share in those emotions, as it hurts to see humans treat each other this way.
But we must not let those negative reactions take hold of us. We must continue to support each other, believing in the power of human beings to overcome and persevere, and believing in our community, and not tolerating violence as an option. We must advocate and strengthen our resolve for a better world that embraces differences, uses democracy to resolve issues, and most importantly, cares for one another, mentally and physically.
Should you or someone you love find yourself overwhelmed, overcome and stressed, please use the resources below:
https://www.tollandct.gov/human-services/pages/resources/
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help
To learn more and get involved to change our antiquated gun laws:
https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/
On Behalf of the TDTC,
Ryan McCann, Chair
January 24th Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Afternoon, and a Happy Friday neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of our special and regular meetings to be held on January 24th.
First, the Town Council convened for an Executive Session for the purposes of Discussing the Potential Sale of the Tolland Water System.
Following the Executive Session, the Town Council will reconvene for our regular meeting. Prior to new business, a proclamation recognizing Black History Month will be read into the record.
This reading will be followed by four new business items. The first new business item is 2021-2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) audit by Clifton Larsen Allen, LLP. The town received a clean opinion from the firm from all financial statements, with recommendations to improve existing practices that do not impact these statements.
The second item of business is a resolution authorizing Town Manager Brian Foley to apply for a FEMA grant from the Assistance to Firefighters program. This program would allow the Tolland Fire Department to procure Bail Out Kits for Air Packs and other possible expenditures to better equip and train emergency personnel.
The third item of business is a consideration of a resolution authorizing Town Manager Brian Foley to apply for and accept on behalf of Tolland a grant from the Neglected Cemetery Account in the amount of $5,000. The grant would be used for restoration and repair of various headstones in the North and East cemeteries.
The fourth and final item of business is a consideration to reappoint a member to the Tolland Water Commission and a new appointment to the Veteran’s Recognition Commission.
To find the agenda and meeting packet for the January 24th meeting, please visit:
Executive Session Agenda – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/705073438.pdf
Regular Agenda – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/705073469.pdf
Meeting Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2023-01-24_regular_meeting_packet.pdf
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. For those who were able to stop by the Red, Warmth and Blue event to donate food pantry items and enjoy the bon fire, thank you. And a thank you to all who helped organize as well as execute the event. We look forward to future community events. If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
January 10th Town Council Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Afternoon, and a Happy Friday neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of our special and regular meetings held on January 10th.
First, the Town Council convened for an Executive Session for the purposes of Union Negotiations.
Following the Executive Session, the Town Council met for our regular meeting. We first received an update of the ARPA Subcommittee on their activities as of 12/31/2022 and plans going forward.
Following this discussion was a unanimous approval to establish a Road Salt Task Force. This Task Force will consist of two Town Council Members (Councilwoman Murray and Councilwoman Nuccio), Town Manager Brian Foley, the town’s head of Administrative Services Mike Wilkinson and the Town Attorney Rick Conti. They will work to review and disseminate information regarding the impact of road salt on residential well water and provide recommendations to the council.
The second new item of business was unanimously approving a Recreation Coordinator Job Position. This 24-hour, part-time position was approved in the last town budget for fiscal year 2023 to further assist the head of the Recreation Department with the creation and management of programming as well as managing seasonal staff.
To find the minutes and meeting packet for the January 10th meeting, please visit:
Executive Session Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/703657094.pdf
Regular Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/703665157.pdf
Meeting Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2023-01-10_regualr_meeting_packet_0.pdf
Town Manager Report – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2022-01-10_manager_packet.pdf
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the attached links above. I encourage all residents to take time to donate needed items for the food pantry and the Red, Warmth and Blue event Saturday the 13th, from 4pm-6pm. Find more information here https://www.tollandct.gov/home/news/red-warmth-blue-reminder . If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Documentation / Background information for above points:
Bullets 1 & 2: https:/https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/695199590.pdf
Bullets 3 & 4: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/698761149.pdf
Bullet 5: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/701370072.pdf
December 27th Town Council Town Council Report by Town Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Afternoon, and a Happy final Friday of 2022 neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of our regular held on December 27th.
For Tuesday, December 27th, the Town Council met for two items of discussion and business. The first item was a legislative discussion regarding priorities and concerns for the 2023 legislative session. Topics of concern included goals each legislator has for the 2023 session, well water contamination concerns, crumbling foundation updates, environmental policies to reduce waste, healthcare consolidation issues and other topics. The second item of business was a unanimous approval for a reappointment to the Blight Review Committee.
To find the minutes of the December 27th meeting and meeting packet, please visit:
12/27 Minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/701370072.pdf
12/27 Packet –https://www.tollandct.gov/…/december_27_2022_town…
pine cone 1 (source- https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/688956539.pdf )
pine cone 2 (source- https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/690438712.pdf )
pine cone 3 (source – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/690438712.pdf )
pine cone 4 (source – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/690438712.pdf )
November 22, 2022 Town Council Chair Report from Steve Jones
Good Morning, and a happy final Friday of November neighbors! I hope you all had a pleasant Thanksgiving holiday with family, friends and loved ones. From the Council Chair, providing a review of our Tuesday, November 22nd regular meeting.
The Town Council first conducted four public hearings. The first hearing unanimously approved a resolution appropriating $500,000 in STEAP Grant funds for the Tennis Court Renovation and Replacement Project. This allows Town Manager Foley authority to execute the funds.
The second public hearing item was the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust Fund. After multiple joint meetings with the Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC), this trust fund will receive monies managed by an Affordable Housing Committee in the event a developer does not wish to build a sufficient number of affordable housing units. This ordinance was also unanimously approved.
The third public hearing item before the Town Council was an unanimously approved resolution amending Section A173-9 of the Tolland Town Code, which pertains to PZC Application Permit Fees. The proposed changes will place Tolland’s permitting fees in line with neighboring communities and encourage developers to consider Tolland for multi-family and other non-residential developments.
The fourth and final public hearing was a consideration of a resolution appropriating $1,500,000 for HVAC system improvements for Tolland Middle School (TMS) and Tolland Intermediate School (TIS), and authorizing the issuance of up to $900,000 in bonds. The Board of Education (BoE) provided this Capital Improvement Plan project in advance due to an opportunity for the town to apply for a grant that would reimburse 49.64% of the costs through a state law that took effect over the summer. This final public hearing was unanimously approved as well. If the grant is not awarded, the council can reconsider the timing of this capital project in conversation with the BoE.
Following these public hearings, there were five new business items. The first two items were unanimously approved amended resolutions establishing building committees for the two HVAC improvement projects for TMS and TIS. These committees would be comprised of town and school staff to oversee the project and grant funding applied to the project. They were amended to include our new grants and project manager.
The third new business item before Town Council was a resolution for a supplemental appropriation for three bridge improvement projects to be funded 100% by state and federal funds and setting the public hearing for these projects on December 13th. The town applied for four bridge project and thus far have been awarded funding for three at the amount requested. This hearing is required as a part of the Town Charter section 9-14. This was unanimously approved as well.
The fourth item of business is a resolution declaring Engine Tank 540 as surplus property within the town. The council unanimously approved the sale in “as is” condition, or to be disposed of in accordance with town policies and any profits from the sale deposited into the town’s Ambulance Reserve Fund.
The fifth and final new business item is an appointment to the Commission on People with Disabilities, which was unanimously approved.
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the subsequent minutes and packet below:
November 22nd meeting minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/695199590.pdf
November 22nd meeting packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2022-11-22_regular_meeting_packet_0.pdf
If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov. Be sure to make time this weekend to support small business across town and attend the Festival of Lights Parade on the Tolland Green on Saturday!
November 8, 2022 Town Council Chair Report from Steve Jones
Good Morning, and a peaceful Veterans Day Friday neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of the Tuesday, November 8th regular meeting. But first, please take a moment to reflect on a family member, friend or loved one who has served and show gratitude to those who have made sacrifices in service to our country if you happen to see them today.
First, the Town Council approved unanimously revisions to an application through SHPO (State Historic Preservation Office) for restoration, repairs and building and ADA ramp for the Old Tolland County Jail and Museum. The town was awarded $20,000 for consulting services towards an architectural plan. The documentation now includes Town Manager Brian Foley’s name on the agreement, as the application was submitted prior to their hire date.
The second item of business is a consideration of a resolution approving the ARPA subcommittees recommendation for a Fire Rescue truck not to exceed $1,000,000. Town Manager Brian Foley provided an update that based on a report commissioned for the town regarding the appropriate amount of public safety vehicles that Tolland was at or above the necessary vehicles and would be reviewed thoroughly going forward with the Capital Improvement 5-year plan. As a result of this information, they recommended the Town Council not approve the use of these funds. The Town Council voted unanimously to decline use of these funds towards the fire rescue truck and will consider other projects on the ARPA subcommittee’s docket at a future meeting.
The third and final agenda item was the unanimous reappointment and appointment of several residents to various commissions. These appointments include the Permanent Celebration Committee, Historic District Commission and the Veteran’s Recognition Commission. Thank you to all those who step up to help in these volunteer capacities. You can contact vacancies@tollandct.gov to apply to any existing vacancies or learn more about what is currently available.
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the subsequent minutes and packet below:
November 8th meeting minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/692746018.pdf
November 8th meeting packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2022-11-08_regualr_meeting_packet.pdf
Town Manager November Report – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/november_8_2022_town_managers_report.pdf
If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov. Have a great weekend!
October 25, 2022 Town Council Chair Report from Steve Jones
Good Morning, and happy final Friday of October neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of the Tuesday, October 25th regular meeting.
First, a citation was read into the record recognizing outgoing Water Commission member Mr. Tom Rallo for their 11 years of service on the commission. We greatly appreciate their years of service and encourage residents to contact vacancies@tollandct.gov to consider volunteering on our numerous boards or commissions.
Following this, the Town Council approved a resolution to authorize the Town Attorney to enter into an agreement with Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. regarding contaminated well issues.
The second item of new business was a unanimous approval of a revised inter-municipal agreement with the Town of Vernon for sewage and septic treatment. Minor changes include adding language to allow for billing software to generate charges that will reduce errors and several grammatical error corrections.
The Town council then unanimously approved closing out the Board of Education’s COVID relief fund. There are no further required expenditures from this fund and it was required for the Town Council to meet between October and December to review the continuation or termination of this fund. Any remaining balance of these funds will be returned to the town’s general fund.
Fourth, the Town Council voted to send to a public hearing a consideration for $1.5 Million in HVAC improvements to Tolland’s Intermediate and Middle Schools, with an issuance of up to $900,000 in bonds and notes. The hearing will be held on November 22nd. This project is a part of the Board of Education’s upcoming Capital Improvement plan and is a response to available grant monies associated with state laws requiring HVAC equipment upgrades to these schools.
Additional public hearings unanimously approved to be set for November 22nd, which include a resolution to create an Affordable Housing Trust, a resolution to amend Section A173-9 of the Tolland Town Code related to PZC Application/Permit Fees and a resolution authorizing the use of the 2022 STEAP Grant Award for the Tennis Court Renovation and Replacement.
An approval for a lease for land between the Town of Tolland and Tolland County Mutual Aid Fire Services Inc. (“TN”) for 20 years was also unanimously approved. This land is where a communications tower is located and has been on lease for 20 years with WFSB, however they no longer need the tower and will not be renewing.
Ninth, the Tolland Town Council approved a Hamada offset printing press from the BoE as obsolete or in disrepair status so it may be sold for parts or disposed of.
The final new item of business was a unanimous approval for an appointment to the Veterans Recognition Commission.
Thank you for taking the time to review this report and the subsequent minutes and packet below:
October 25th meeting minutes – https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/690438712.pdf
October 25th meeting packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/regular_meeting_packet_-_2022-10-25.pdf
If you would like to submit any questions or comments to the Town Council, please email us at towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Additional information about the three “leaf” bullet points above:
Bullet point one: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/683818152.pdf
Bullet point two: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/681230494.pdf
Bullet point 3: https://ecode360.com/TO1208/document/687781718.pdf
October 15, 2022: Democrats at the Harvest Fest, Enjoying “Tolland Perk” with Friends!
October 15, 2022: Sign waving for Democratic Candidates!
October 11, 2022 Town Council Chair Report from Steve Jones
Good Morning, and happy first Friday of October neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of the special and regular meetings to beheld on October 11th and a special meeting on October 12th.
First, the Town Council met in Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter.
The Council will then reconvene for our regular meeting to review several new business items. The first new item of business is a consideration for ARPA Funding Use to support a 50% reduction on Recreation Programs to not exceed $200,000 dollars. These funds will cover expenses for roughly 1.5 years and leave additional funding available to the Recreation Department for extra and/or new programming.
The second item of business is the annual meeting with the Tolland Public Library Foundation Board to present their annual report to the Tolland Town Council. This report includes their activities and accomplishments over the last year, goals for the upcoming year and their approved budget.
The third item of business is a consideration for a resolution to apply for the Federal Local Bridge Program to support four priority projects that include Gerber Drive bridge over Gages Brooks, Industrial Park Roads East as well as West bridges over Gages Brook and South River Road #2 bridge over the Willimantic River. If awarded, they will cover 100% of the project costs
The fourth and final item of business before Town Council is a resolution to approve the reuse of capital project funds of a boiler and controls replacement at Tolland High School. This equipment has been identified as having a number of significant issues for repair due to cracks and replacement of obsolete controls. If approved, funding will be utilized within the capital projects fund for roughly $85,000 dollars.
Following this meeting, the Tolland Town Council will host a second special meeting on Wednesday, October 12th to discuss a Pending Claim as well as a Real Estate Transaction (Lease) in executive session.
To view the Town Council Meeting Agendas and Packets, please visit:
October 11 Special Agenda – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/685078705.pdf
October 11 Regular Agenda –https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/685078771.pdf
October 11 Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/october_11_2022_council_packet.pdf
October 12 Special Agenda – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/685085262.pdf
Town Manager October Report – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/october_11_2022_town_managers_report.pdf
Thank you for taking time to review the Town Council’s upcoming meeting. To submit any questions or comments to the Tolland Town Council, please email towncouncil@tollandct.gov .
September 30, 2022 Town Council Chair Report from Steve Jones
Good Morning, and happy final Friday of September neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of our regular meeting to be held on Tuesday, September 27th.
First, the Town Council chair read into the record a Proclamation Recognizing Long-Time Employee Tina Binheimer, who served for 16 years as an Animal Control Officer (ACO) for our community. We thank her for her service and wish her the best in her future role as a dispatcher with the State Police.
The second item of business was a public hearing to amend Ordinance #54, which updates the town’s voting districts to reflect changes in the state legislative district maps. This was approved unanimously by the council after the Republican Registrar of Voters Len Bach provided commentary and appreciation for the council’s efforts. 200 addresses will move from District 3 to 1, but will still be voting in the same location. One address will be moving from District 2 to District 1, which is Parker Place and allows the senior residents who live there to vote closer to where they live.
The Town Council’s third item of business was a consideration to extend the due date of payment in lieu of taxes for Parker Place housing due to delays in reaching occupancy rates related to the pandemic as well as unexpected repair costs to the site. This was unanimously approved contingent upon a letter being received ensuring the funds not provided to the town would be directly invested in the Parker Place project.
The Town Council then reviewed and unanimously approved a consideration of a resolution to authorize the town to apply for a grant offered by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS). The grant will support the town’s Local Prevention Council (LPC), which provides substance use/misuse prevention strategies and increase public awareness.
The fifth item of business was a discussion of providing ADA updates to the Tolland Green. The Town Manager Brian Foley reached out to Robert Symonds, a local business owner who provided options and discuss the scope of the project. Due to concerns raised by Mr. Symonds regarding the impact of moving the stones causing significant damage, difficulty sourcing certain materials, the location of several sections being on private property and the inability to make them easily accessible or ADA accessible, the council opted to pursue developing a town-maintained, ADA compliant walkway as a part of the town’s capital improvement plan.
The final business before the Town Council was a unanimous approval of three residents to vacancies on the Tolland Historic District Commission, Planning & Zoning Commission (Alternate), and the Library Advisory Board.
To view the Town Council Meeting Minutes and Packets, please visit:
September 27 Special Minutes – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/683818117.pdf
September 27 Regular Minutes – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/683818152.pdf
September 27 Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/…/september_27_2022_council…
Thank you for taking time to review the Town Council’s upcoming meeting. To submit any questions or comments to the Tolland Town Council, please email towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
September 14, 2022
The Tolland Democrats are saddened to learn of the recent threats made against State Representative Nuccio. We condemn any threats of violence to one’s person or property, and are thankful Ms Nuccio and her family were not harmed. We applaud the service of the State Capital Police in ensuring our elected officials and state employees are protected and safe.
Celebrate Tolland, September 11, 2022
Successful School Supply Drive! 8/21/22
August 9, 2022 Town Council Update from Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Morning, and Happy Friday Tolland! From the Council Chair, providing a review of our regular meeting to be held on August 9th.
First, the Town Council continued a discussion first had on July 26th regarding the Firehouse Improvement Plans. Due to inflation, the general cost of bids, materials and labor, prices have increase dramatically, causing the town to reconsider the scope of the project. Town staff indicated that at this point the best path going forward would be to fully replace station 340 on Gehring Road and receive an engineering estimate to refurbish 440 on Plains Road to best meet the needs of Public Safety while staying within the amount approved at the 2021 Referendum. Following these stations, the town would examine addressing the crumbling foundation situation at 140. Additionally, the council will be seeking to establish a Firehouse Building Subcommittee at our next regular meeting.
For the second item of business, the Town Council unanimously approved several recommendations for use of Tolland’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds by our ARPA Subcommittee comprised of council members and town staff. These recommendations included a number of capital improvement projects that will reduce long-term debt, reduce use of our Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure (CNRE) Fund, and provide consulting services for the Tolland Mental Health Task Force to better carry out their goals and tasks.
The third item for consideration before the Town Council was a unanimous approval to declare Rescue Truck 240 as surplus property within the town. This vehicle is from 2002 and is being replaced by another truck that was ordered last year. The truck will be advertised for sale in “as is” condition. In the past, similar equipment has been sold to smaller communities within the region. Monies earned from the sale may either go into the CNRE fund or the Ambulance Reserve Fund depending on which funding source the 2002 truck was purchased from, however the council has the option to deposit the proceeds elsewhere according to town staff.
The final item for action was several appointments and reappointments to various boards and commissions, which includes four members of the Commission on People with Disabilities and three members of the Agriculture Commission. These were all approved unanimously
To view the Town Council Meeting Minutes and Packet, please visit: Minutes – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/675400050.pdf
Packet: https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/july_26_2022_council_packet_0.pdf
To view the Town Manager’s August Report, please visit: https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/august_9_2022_managers_report.pdf
Thank you for taking time to review the Town Council’s upcoming meeting. To submit any questions or comments to the Tolland Town Council, please email towncouncil@tollandct.gov.
Lisa Thomas, Kenny Trice, Mary Ann Hansen, Joe Courtney and Ned Lamont, working hard in the heat to show up to talk to YOU!
August 5, 2022
The Tolland Democrats are disappointed that the sign at Exit 68 has again been vandalized. This time, the perpetrator has escalated the damage by destroying the wooden sign supports with a power tool. The incident has been reported to Troop C, and they are investigating.
We live in a small town and we know that sometimes we don’t always agree. But bedrock American principles such as respecting one another, respecting private property, and honoring every person’s right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness should govern all of our actions. The gift of living in a Democracy requires us to use our intellect, our compassion, and the guidance of the Golden Rule to engage in conversation and debate to resolve issues.
It is unfortunate that one or more of our neighbors do not uphold these principles. The Tolland Democrats vow to honor and uphold the principles of our Democracy in order to continue to foster an inclusive, accepting home. We look forward to working with our fellow community members to reinforce the message that all human beings are contributors to the fabric of our community. We believe that Love Conquers All!
July 23, 2022
The Tolland Democrats, led by Marilee Beebe and Chair Ryan McCann, along with many other friends and helpers, altered the vandalized sign (with owner permission) today. The wording of the message was voted upon by members of the local LGBTQIA+ community, and we are grateful for the general outpouring of support from the entire town.
The original event was covered in local news by Fox 61: https://www.fox61.com/video/news/crime/tolland-democrat-pride-sign-vandalized/520-7e943bb9-66d4-4fe2-9166-6a0c2a875369?fbclid=IwAR2LCLoysRSRG8rVNWC3tyt4FUxT_f-t50E27PBNl86V_6nqGktWdQvIyyg; and the Journal Inquirer: https://www.journalinquirer.com/crime_and_courts/tolland-democrats-pride-sign-vandalized/article_c5f976ba-0773-11ed-bf4f-7f9984f6d766.html.
We look forward to continue working with the community to prove that Love Conquers All.
July 22, 2022 Town Council Update from Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Morning, and Happy Friday Tolland! From the Council Chair, providing a preview of our regular meeting to be held on July 26th.
First, the Town Council will be considering a resolution designating open space at Lion’s Field as the Tolland Veteran’s Memorial Park at the request of the Tolland Veteran’s Recognition Commission (VRC). This designation also has the support of the Recreation Advisory Board after meeting with the VRC.
For the second item of business, the Town Council will be considering a resolution approving a bid waiver for the purchase of a new ambulance as well as labor and materials to replace ambulance 540. Ambulance 540 is a part of the capital improvement project for fiscal year 2022-2023 and there is a desire to place the order as soon as possible to reduce delays with an established local vendor.
The Town Council’s third item of business is a continuation of discussions regarding the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The council has had prior discussions on this topic, including a joint meeting with the Planning & Zoning Commission. The commission currently has in place zoning regulations that take effect in January of 2023 that mandate affordable housing for new multifamily developments. However, their regulations offer flexibility to developers if the Trust Fund is established by the Town Council. A draft ordinance will be presented for input and discussion, and planning for a future joint meeting with the PZC will be considered as well.
Fourth, the Town Council will be taking action transferring various tax accounts to Suspense. These accounts will still be collectible by the town through Rossi Law Offices doing additional collection efforts, but will no longer be recognized as assets of the town. This list totals $35,981.30 in tax revenue.
Finally, the town council will be considering an appointment to the Tolland Water Commission.
To view the Town Council Meeting Agenda and Packet, please visit:
Agenda – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/671789958.pdf
Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/site…
Thank you for taking time to review the Town Council’s upcoming meeting. To submit any questions or comments to the Tolland Town Council, please email towncouncil@tollandct.gov .
July 18, 2022
The Tolland Democrats are extremely disappointed that someone has defaced the Pride flag painted on the large sign at Exit 68, on private property. The Pride flag is there in our beautiful town as an intentional reminder of inclusion. It is of prime import to Tolland Democrats that every person feels safe and accepted in Tolland. We condemn this individual’s actions, which appear to be motivated by hatred and intolerance. The Tolland Democrats know that each person is #worthit. The owner of the property has contacted the police, and will be pursuing recourse. The Tolland Democrats will be repainting the sign with another message of love and acceptance shortly. We continue to steadfastly champion love in all forms, and we recognize the rights of every person to pursue their own path of happiness. Stay tuned for information about the upcoming sign reveal.
July 12, 2022 Town Council Update from Council Chair, Steve Jones
Good Afternoon, and Happy Friday Tolland! From the Council Chair, providing a review of our regular meeting to be held on July 12th.
First, the Town Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the issuance of bonds and notes up to $1,197,366 to finance various capital budget items that were approved in the 2022 Budget Referendum. Some of these items are currently being considered for use of ARPA funds by the ARPA subcommittee, and the debt will not be issued until later this year. If ARPA funds are approved for use, the town will not issue the debt.
The Town Council then has several new business items for consideration. First the council unanimously authorized the little league to have scoreboards installed at River Park. The Tolland Little League will pay for the boards and installation cost. The town would be responsible for the hook up charge of a meter box in the amount of $1,600 through use of savings in a municipal contingency fund balance.
Second, the town unanimously authorized the Town Manager to submit a Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) application to the state’s Office of Policy and Management (OPM). The town is looking to apply for $500,000 for the renovation and replacement of tennis courts at Crandall Park and Old Cathole Road North. Funds have been allocated in the FY 2022-2023 budget Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which would count towards the municipal match towards the total project cost and provide additional preference for OPM to award these funds.
The Town Council then unanimously declared various equipment in disrepair or obsolete, as approved by the Board of Education unanimously at their June 22, 2022 meeting.
Fourth, the Town Council approved Administrative Secretary position’s job description for the Senior Center, which was approved as a part of the FY 2022-2023 budget. This position is now open and seeking applications through Town Hall. Applications are due by August 8th.
Fifth, the Town Council unanimously approved appointing Brian Foley as a member of the Board of Directors for the Eastern Highlands Health District (EHHD) through May of 2024. The town manager serves as a regular member alongside a member of the town council to represent Tolland.
Sixth, the Town Council passed a resolution authorizing Brian Foley to execute an MOA with the State of CT for participation in the Homeland Security Grant Program. This resolution updates the language reflecting Mr. Foley as the new Town Manager.
Finally, the council unanimously approved several appointments and re-appointments to various boards and commissions. These include appointing the new Town Manager Brian Foley to the ARPA Subcommittee, Delinquent Tax Collection Enforcement and Land Acquisition Advisory Committee for life terms, as well as residents to the Tolland Housing Authority and Mental Health and Substance Use Advisory Task Force and one reappointment to the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee.
To view the Town Council Meeting Minutes and Packet, please visit:
Minutes – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/670433901.pdf
Packet – https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/2022-07-12_regular_meeting_packet.pdf
To view the Town Manager’s Monthly report, please visit:
Thank you for taking time to review the Town Council’s upcoming meeting. To submit any questions or comments to the Tolland Town Council, please email towncouncil@tollandct.gov .
Statement from the TDTC about the Shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas (5/26/22)
Our hearts ache for the families in Uvalde, the families in Buffalo, and all Americans directly impacted by these senseless acts of gun violence. The words escape us as we are saddened, angry, terrified, and disgusted to hear of another mass shooting of innocent Americans: children.
Schools, grocery stores, churches, and workplaces should not be places where one fears for their lives. While mental health is often a factor in these horrific tragedies, access to assault weapons is also a significant factor. Enough is enough, and stronger gun laws are a matter of public safety, necessity, and a characteristic of a mature, civilized nation. We are effectively eroding the essence of our liberties – while claiming to preserve them – by having some of the worst gun control laws among wealthy, developed nations. Enough is enough. We can have liberty without the means to kill each other en masse.
If you are struggling with the news from Uvalde, or struggling in general, please seek assistance via these resources in our community:
https://www.tollandct.gov/human-services/pages/resources/
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help
To learn more and get involved to change our antiquated gun laws:
https://www.everytown.org/
https://giffords.org/lawcenter/gun-violence-statistics/
https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/
On Behalf of the TDTC,
Ryan McCann, Chair
May 9, 2022 – Board of Education Update
In our April 27th meeting, we began with a moment of silence for Laura Hayes, school psychologist at TIS, who recently passed away. Laura was a beloved member of our school community and Dr. Willett and the Board send their deepest condolences to the Hayes family.
The Board of Education then received a presentation on the Science curriculum and the Next Generation of Science Standards from Mark Ruede. The curriculum includes a focus on “doing science” rather than “learning science,” using real world content to learn a greater context with connections to Tolland and Connecticut, and an inclusion of engineering standards and practices to apply science to human problems.
The board then reviewed the White House Infrastructure Grant, a $500M grant program. Dr. Willett explained that the administration is looking at investing in more efficient energy savings programs for school buildings. Given that both the high school and Birch Grove are newer buildings and very efficient, and the use of systems such as geothermal are being used at TMS and TIS, Dr. Willett believes priority districts may get preference and Tolland may not be first to receive these funds, however he will look for opportunities as they arise.
Next, the board discussed goal setting sessions and dates to meet with CABE. The Board will have their first session on July 27th and ask for more options in August and September for a second session.
The board then entered into Executive Session for the purpose of the Superintendent Evaluation.
Full pending meeting minutes of the April 27th meeting (and others) can be found here:http://www.tolland.k12.ct.us/…/b_o_e_agendas__minutes…
Please reach out to the Board of Education with any questions or comments at:
http://www.tolland.k12.ct.us/board_of_education
Thank you,
–Jennifer Gallichant, Communications Committee Chair
May 5, 2022 – Town Council Update
Second Budget for May 17th Referendum Proposed, Miracle Field Site Narrowed Down, Discussion of Negotiations with Miracle League and more
Good Afternoon and a pleasant Mother’s Day Weekend neighbors! From the Council Chair, providing a review of the May 5th Special Meetings and a Preview of the May 10th Meeting.
On Thursday, May 5th the Council convened to set a new budget after the failed referendum on May 3rd. The Bi-partisan proposal negotiated by the Chair and Vice Chair was presented to the council with a reduction of $395,208 from the original budget. $92,317 was removed from the Town Budget and $302,891 was removed from the Board of Education Budget.
The new budget total is a proposed increase of 2.57%, which was clarified by the interim town manager as not being the tax increase. With this budget, residents would expect a reduction in the mill rate of approximately -.53 mills, or a decrease in property taxes of 1.43%. Additionally, the motor vehicles will be capped at a rate of 32.46 mills per the new state law passed by the CT legislature. These taxes will vary per resident depending on the assessed value of their vehicle.
The vote for this proposal to be sent out to a second referendum on May 17th, from 6AM to 8PM at the Recreation Center was passed by a vote of 5-2. The vote to approval a resolution authorizing the form of the ballot for the referendum was passed on a 4-3 vote retaining the language of the first budget referendum after a vote to reincorporate information about the mill rate failed on a 3-4 vote.
Following this meeting there was a presentation by our Town Engineer Chuck Eaton on several proposed miracle field sites. The Board of Education, Miracle League of Northern CT, Recreation Department and Sports Leagues were invited to attend and provide input. Dave Garritt of Tolland Soccer Club also shared a presentation with information and input with the council and will be incorporated into the meeting minutes alongside commentary from any invited attendees who could not make it.
After discussion and input from various stakeholders, a location at Crossfarms identified in the Mr. Eaton’s report as Option 5 was seen as the most optimal location, with an opportunity for adjustments with the assistance of sports leagues potentially relocating a shed in the area to avoid grading issues.
On Tuesday, May 10th the council will be convening for a regular meeting to conduct three items of new business. First, the council will be reviewing a request for a proclamation recognizing a resident for winning the Nightingale Award for Excellence in Nursing.
Following this discussion, the town will be considering a resolution to apply for a State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) grant $20,000 to have Architectural Plans and Specifications developed by a historical architect to address several improvements needed at the Old Tolland County Jail and Museum.
This resolution will be followed by another resolution the council will be considering to authorize the interim Town Manager to negotiate an agreement with the Miracle League of Northern CT based on the discussions at our May 5th special meeting. If approved, the resolution would allow the town through the Manager’s office to begin working with the Miracle League, Legal Counsel and the Town Council to develop a suitable agreement.
The minutes of the May 5th meetings will be published next week.
To view the meeting agenda and packet for May 9th, please visit:
Agenda – https://ecode360.com/documents/TO1208/public/658480589.pdf
Packet https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/may_10_2022_council_packet.pdf
To view the Town Manager’s monthly report, please visit https://www.tollandct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3921/f/uploads/may_10_2022_town_managers_report.pdf
Thank you everyone for taking the time to review the Town Council’s business. I hope you all have a pleasant and peaceful Mother’s Day. Be sure to visit any local shops for quick gifts and enjoy a Mother’s Day Meal at any of our restaurants. To submit any questions or comments to the Tolland Town Council, please email towncouncil@tolland.org.
–Steve Jones, Town Council Chair
Tolland Democratic Town Committee 