The BOS held a public hearing on the same evening prior to their regular meeting on Thursday, May 25, to hear public comments on a proposal to transfer ownership of 8 Cameron Road, Map 33, Block 1, Lot 68, from the Town of New Fairfield to resident Ms. Bailey Santucci, who is the owner of the adjacent property at 5 Cameron Road. The small piece of property is three-tenths of an acre and is an “unbuildable” lot; Santucci plans to make it a buffer space between her home and a two-acre lot on which a new home is being built. No public comments were voiced. The matter will move to a Town meeting on Thursday, June 8.
First Selectman Ms. Pat Del Monaco explained that Blueberry Island on Candlewood Lake will be closed for the summer. New Fairfield’s Health Director Mr. Tim Simpkins has ordered the closure in conjunction with the property owner FirstLight “due to unsanitary conditions.” Notices are posted and will be enforced by the Candlewood Lake Authority’s marine patrol. Del Monaco explained, “it will be an indefinite closure at this point as we try to clean up the island and give it a chance to recover.”
The Senior Center received a grant through the State of Connecticut’s Department of Aging and Disability Services for $35,973. They are considering how best to spend it, possibly on a new sound system, which Del Monaco says, “I think is something that is very reasonable and something that they need for the many programs that they provide.” In addition, they would like to complete work on the Senior Center’s front doors to make them compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A proclamation was read for the New Fairfield Outstanding Senior Citizen of the Year Peggy Katkocin. Many wonderful details were included about Katkocin’s 38 years in the town, including her work on numerous boards, extensive volunteerism, and employment as a school nurse.
The BOS reappointed Del Monaco to the Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority. The group is comprised primarily of the chief executives of all towns in the region. They are also seeking an alternate member for that group.
Following public comment requesting an update on when the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for new Communication Center equipment—which was ensured to be in the works, with a quote expected soon—it was agreed that an update on all ARPA projects should be had in an upcoming meeting.
Tax refunds were approved to several parties who requested refunds after overpaying their bills.
The next regular Board of Selectmen meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June
8, 7:30 p.m.