By Michelle L. Santoro
Sherman – A small group of residents attended the Annual Budget Meeting on Saturday, April 20 at Charter Hall. First Selectman Don Lowe was faced with questions from residents regarding Happy Acres Farm and how the town funds farm maintenance. Residents will be asked to vote on the budget proposed by the Board of Selectmen (“BOS” or “Board”) acting as the Board of Finance on Saturday May 4 beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Immediately following the annual meeting, the BOS held its first Town Meeting of the new quarter. The two dozen plus residents in attendance were asked to vote on three items. The first, which was discussed at the Board’s March 21 special meeting, was to authorize an appropriation of $260,000, representing eighty percent of the total cost, from the capital non-recurring fund or American Rescue Plan (“ARPA”) funds toward the purchase of a new ambulance for the Sherman Volunteer Fire Department (“SVFD”). Residents voted unanimously to approve the purchase, the total cost of which is $324,00. The remaining twenty percent of the cost will be paid by the SVFD.
Next, residents were asked to authorize an appropriation not-to-exceed $10,000 from the capital non-recurring fund to fund the purchase of two Marlin “YOUR SPEED” signs for placement on State Route 37 in town. One resident voiced concern over how the installation of such signs would change the look of the Town. While Mr. Lowe noted the concern and agreed with the assessment of the signs’ look, he reminded residents that the Board has utilized several means to address the issue of speeding in Sherman – particularly in the Town’s center, which continues to be an issue for all residents. Although Mr. Lowe said he wished the “YOUR SPEED” were not a necessity, they are another tool to assist the Board in its effort to mitigate speeding drivers – for the benefit of all residents. Another resident, living within the Town Center, spoke in favor of the indicators. The motion passed, with three residents voting against the expenditure.
Lastly, those in attendance were asked to authorize an appropriation not-to-exceed $20,000 from the capital non-recurring fund or ARPA funds for the purchase of eleven automated external defibrillators (“AEDS”). SVFD Chief Chris Fuchs made the request for this appropriation at the BOS’ March 28 regular meeting. As explained by Chief Fuchs when requesting the BOS approve the expenditure for resident approval, the AEDs are carried throughout town by emergency medical trained SVFD members. Residents voted unanimously to approve such authorization.