By Michelle L. Santoro

Sherman – At the first regular Board of Selectman’s (“BOS”) meeting of the summer, First Selectman Don Lowe commenced the meeting with the reading of lengthy correspondence from a resident regarding the importance of appointing a qualified veteran as the Town’s Veterans’ Municipal Representative (“VetRep”).  During public comments, several residents, including veterans, voiced their opinions, reiterating the importance of the position.  The takeaway – residents feel Sherman and the State failed to educate folks about the importance of the role and the BOS must take the filling of the position seriously and it should be filled with a veteran.  There was also a plea for the Town to hold the Sherman Veterans Association (“SVA”) accountable to its bylaws, particularly regarding elections and leadership.  Mr. Lowe commented that the BOS would look to the SVA for guidance in filling the role, with the hope of appointing a veteran.  While the BOS is committed to appointing someone soon, Lowe expressed the desire to “properly” filling the position.   

The purpose of Veterans’ Municipal Representative is to provide a local point of contact for veterans, facilitating access to information and services. Vet Reps play an important role assisting veterans by connecting them with the resources and support they need, particularly with respect to healthcare, social services and career development.

Administratively, the Board approved the meeting minutes from May 22 and voted to increase the Park and Recreation budget by $45,000. With camp enrollment higher than expected –  over 200 students enrolled this year – the department’s expenses were more than was budgeted for. Business Manager Liz LaVia provided a brief financial review.  Per the Town’s auditor, approval is needed for the adding of July 1-4 into the end of the current fiscal year.  She noted that EMS services are over budget, which was expected, while the Resident Trooper’s line is less and the school budget is expected to break even.  The Board appointed Merialis Lewis and Susan White to the Commission on Aging for three-year terms. 

Sherman Volunteer Fire Department (“Department”) Chief Chris Fuchs sent correspondance advising of the Department’s monthly report.  The Department responded to 191  emergency calls year-to-date, and members completed the annual swift water rescue refresher training.  Tickets are available for the Department’s Annual Fireman’s Ball. The Public Works (“PW”) Supervisor provided his usual comic relief.  Kris Fazzone advised that chip sealing is complete and the four- and one-half miles of road “looks great.”  PW spent much time recently with Park and Rec fencing around the beach and completing the playground.  Discussion ensued regarding signage and the ongoing problem of unleashed dogs in areas where they are prohibited.  Mr. Lowe acknowledged PW’s request for an additional employee.  The request will be considered in the next budget cycle.    

The Board discussed the Town’s income threshold for tax relief for its elderly and disabled residents.  Lowe and the Town’s Treasurer, Andrea Maloney, reviewed other towns’ threshold for this type of relief and “Sherman’s threshold is arguably low,” Lowe said noting it has not changed since 2015.  Selectmen Bob Ostrosky offered his support for setting the Town’s threshold at whatever the State threshold is plus a sum certain.  Discussion on this topic will continue. 

The Board voted to bring to a Town Meeting a request, not to exceed $521,694, from the capital non-recurring fund for the resurfacing of Anderson Road. 

In other news, the Board agreed to pass on an offer from the Housatonic Recovery & Resource Association for a “free” food scrap program, which would require Sherman paying for pickup and cleanup afterward.  All agreed that the costs outweighed the benefits.  A committee will be formed for purposes of digesting, and potentially seeking funding to proceed with, a free Local Traffic Authority report/Connectivity Study to be performed by WestCog.   They will study and then decide the best way to connect entities in Town – Sherman Library with the Colonial Field area.  Lowe advised that the to-be-named committee already has a member, resident Steve Fratini.  Selectman Joel Bruzinski volunteered his time for the committee. 

Mr. Bruzinski then discussed the Town’s entity email and social media account policy, noting a clear policy is non-existent on what Sherman should or should not do. Ms. Maloney mentioned the need to educate town employees on “best use” of email.  With the next Building Committee meeting scheduled for June 30, Mr. Lowe noted his intention to advise the committee that its outreach needed more clarity.  The renovation project was “status quo” as of the BOS meeting.  Lowe also mentioned his desire for more public attendance at meetings of the proposed Sherman Senior Center committee.  He advised that the committee plans to host a series of Town Forums when appropriate.  Discussion ensued regarding the proposed location of  a social services office.    Mr. Bruzinski raised concern over the initial four-million-dollar budget if use of the proposed project changes to a more encompassing community center.  Mr. Fazzone voiced his desire for Park and Rec to be involved in such discussions.  The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday July 1 in Mallory Town Hall.   During public comment at the end of the meeting, some opined that putting “other folks” with seniors is a good thing.

Mr. Lowe announced that First Light was moving forward with Sherman’s application for the Town Beach dock additions and redesign work.  He was awaiting word as to whether there are changes, or whether First Light was ready to submit the application as is.   Lastly, it was announced that the Town lost the grant it used to pay for extra traffic enforcement hours.  Much discussion ensued regarding the ongoing problem of speeding and privacy issues that arise with the use of certain methods for tracking speed.  

The next Board of Selectmen’s meeting is scheduled for July 24 at 7:00 pm in Mallory Town Hall.