News – Be Informed – Democratic Town Committee

Welcome.

The New Fairfield Democratic Town Committee wants to help keep you informed of significant town events and news from our elected officials.

Our Town runs because people volunteer their time for these Boards and Commissions and we welcome your participation.

2024

This is another important year for all of us, with the budget referendum coming this spring, and a state election later this year. We will provide you information on these and other events, as well as information on Board and Commission vacancies here.

Also stay informed by looking at important Letters to the Editor.

From 2023

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, October 26, 2023, PAGE 2

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SELECTMAN’S UPDATE

Decorate your house creepy displays: Many thanks to everyone who decorated their houses for Halloween. I hope everyone can take a ride to enjoy these creative displays!

37 NORTH:

7 North Forty – off Beaver Bog

8 Cornell Road – Warwick to Columbia

157 Rte 37 – Past Warwick

BALL POND AREA:

10 Manning Street

21 Manning Street

36 Lillian Ave

14 Old Town Road (off Newfane)

28 Ball Pond Road East

OFF BARNUM ROAD:

18 Charcoal Ridge Rd. East

OFF SAW MILL ROAD:

23 Musket Ridge Road

CANDLEWOOD HILLS AREA:

18 Hilltop Drive

TRICK OR TREAT FEST: The annual Tricks or Treats Fest will be held this Friday, October 27 from 4:30 – 6:30. Arrive at Town Hall beginning at 4:00 to pick up your Trick or Treat bag, map and first treat. Trick or Treating at the businesses on the map will continue through 6:30 – and don’t forget to stop by the Library at 5:00 for Legacy Dance performance of the Thriller dance! We look forward to seeing everyone!

RUN FOR THE TURKEYS: The 39^th Annual Run for the Turkeys will be held on Sunday, November 19^th. The event includes a 5 K Run, Health Walk and Kids’ Fun Run. The event will be held at New Fairfield High School, starting at 11:00. Digital timing, positional placing and trophies highlight this year’s event. Prizes will be awarded for the three best Thanksgiving themed costumed runners. Register on-line https://web1.myvscloud.com/wbwsc/ctnewfairfieldwt.wsc/ or call the P&R office at 203-312-5633. T-shirts are available only from Godfather Productions at https://stores.inksoft.com/nf_park_n_rec/shop/home until November 3rd. For questions about T-shirts, call 203-746-2183.

ELECTION DAY is Tuesday, November 7. Polls will be open from 6:00 AM until 8:00 PM. If you have questions regarding your voting district and polling locations, please contact the Town Clerk at 203-312-5613 or the Registrar of Voters at 203-312-5616. Absentee ballots are available at the Town Clerk’s Office Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, and on Saturday, November 4 from 9:00 AM – noon. Absentee ballots will be issued by the Town Clerk through close of business on Monday, November 7. All absentee ballots must be received by the Town Clerk no later than 8:00 PM on Election Day. Election Day Registration is available to new voters and those who have recently moved to New Fairfield or moved to a new address within New Fairfield. To register, you must be over the age of 18 and provide proof of New Fairfield residency to the Registrar. Election Day Registration is only available at the Registrar of Voters Office in Town Hall, not at the polls.

CONNECTICUT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Households with income below 60% of the State Median Income may be eligible for assistance towards their winter heating bills. Both homeowners and renters may apply. Households that are eligible for the winter heating program may also be eligible for other assistance programs and to receive weatherization assistance from Eversource. For more information, you can contact Social Services at 203-312-5669, or visit the Town website, www.newfairfield.org and click on Municipal Departments, Social Services and Programs. You may also visit CT.gov and search for “Energy Assistance.”

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, October 12, 2023, PAGE 2

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WINTER PREPAREDNESS

As winter approaches, we are reminded that winter in the Northeast can bring all types of weather, including snow, sleet and freezing rain accompanied by strong winds and sub- zero temperatures. As we have learned from past storms, it is not unrealistic for New Fairfield residents to be isolated and without power for an extended period of time. The following tips from the National Weather Service, CDC and NFPA will help you plan to safely shelter at home. If you are unable to provide a reliable source of heat in your home, make arrangements to shelter with family or friends who may be unaffected by the emergency.

Plan ahead to identify a safe source of heat for your family. If you use a generator, make sure that you have a fuel supply and that you identify a safe location for the generator. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends locating portable generators at least 20 feet away from the house and any open window or vent to prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning. The NFPA also recommends the following:

Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.
Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors, or other openings in the building. The exhaust must be directed away from the building.
Make sure to install carbon monoxide alarms in your home.

Have your chimney or flue inspected each year. If you plan to use a fireplace or wood stove for emergency heating, have your chimney or flue inspected each year.

Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector.

If you’ll be using a fireplace, wood stove, or kerosene heater, install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near the area to be heated. Test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
Keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby.
All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside.
Each winter season have your furnace system and vent checked by a qualified technician to ensure they are functioning properly.

Weatherproof your home.

Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so your water supply will be less likely to freeze.
Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm.

For older adults, keep an easy-to-read thermometer inside your home. If you or a loved one are over 65 years old, place an easy-to-read thermometer in an indoor location where you will see it frequently. Our ability to feel a change in temperature decreases with age, and older adults are more susceptible to health problems caused by cold.

Prepare a basic emergency kit. The National Weather Service recommends having enough food, water and other supplies on hand to last for 72 hours.

Water– one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
Food– at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

Battery-powered or hand crank radio
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Fuel for generator and cars
Supplies as needed for children and/or seniors
Prescription medications
Non-prescription medications, such as pain relievers, allergy medication, etc.
Glasses and contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes
Pet food and extra water for your pet

Create an emergency car kit. It is best to avoid traveling during a storm, but if travel is necessary, keep the following in your car:

Cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries
Items to stay warm such as extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets
Windshield scraper
Shovel
Flashlight with extra batteries
Water and snack food
First aid kit with any necessary medications and a pocket knife
Cat litter or sand to help tires get traction, or road salt to melt ice
Booster cables with fully charged battery or jumper cables
Hazard or other reflectors

New Fairfield Public Works

Sand/salt mixture is available to residents at the Drop Off Center. Residents may fill two 5 gallon buckets with sand per storm. The Drop Off Center is open on Saturdays and Tuesdays from 8:00 AM until 3:45 PM and on Thursday evenings from 2:00 – 5:00 PM. Please bring your own buckets and shovel!

Mailboxes and posts that receive direct contact from snow removal equipment will be replaced with a standard mailbox and post. If your mailbox was damaged directly by a Town plow, please call the Public Works Department at 203-312-5628. The Public Works Superintendent will inspect the damage and replace the mailbox accordingly.

Town ordinance requires that you remove parked cars from Town roads during a storm so that the plows can clear your road safely and completely.

Alert Now Notification System

I also recommend participating in the “Alert Now” system to receive notification from the Selectman’s Office regarding weather alerts and emergency response. The system is used to provide information on road closures, power restoration and shelter services. You may choose to receive notification by land line phone, cell phone, text and/or e-mail. To sign up for the service, fill out the form on the Home Page of the Town Website, www.newfairfield.org. Emergency information will also be posted on the website, as well as on the Town Facebook Page “Town of New Fairfield CT”.

If you or a family member has special medical needs that could be impacted by an extended power outage or other emergency, please contact the New Fairfield Director of Emergency Management at 203-312-5723 to complete a “Medical Disability or Special Assistance Notification Form.” This information will remain confidential, but will alert emergency responders to your needs.

More information can be found at www.cdc.gov and www.weather.gov/safety/winter.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, October 5, 2023, PAGE 2

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SELECTMAN’S UPDATE

ABSENTEE BALLOTS for Municipal Elections on Tuesday, November 7

Absentee ballots for the municipal election will be available beginning on October 6. Absentee ballots can be obtained in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours and on Saturday, November 4 from 9:00 AM until noon. Note that ballots must be returned by the close of polls on Election Day. The Official Ballot Drop Box will be locked at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. More detailed information regarding voting districts, voting locations and absentee ballots can be found on the on the Town website at www.newfairfield.org, by clicking on Municipal Departments, Town Clerk, and Voting.

Voter Registration

If you are not registered to vote, there are several ways to get registered before the municipal election:

Online at https://voterregistration.ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do

In-Person: Come to town hall to fill out a voter registration card available in
our office or by the town clerk’s office.

Drop Off your Card: You can drop off voter registration cards in the drop
box behind town hall, Attention Registrar of Voters Office.

By Mail: You can fill out a Voter Registration Card and mail it to the
Registrar of Voters (4 Brush Hill, New Fairfield, CT 06812)

Where to get Voter Registration Cards: Voter Registration Cards can be
obtained anytime from the New Fairfield Public Library or in the Town Hall
during regular business hours, Online & Students can get them at the High
School Guidance office.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP OFF EVENT

The next Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off event will be held on October 14 from 9AM – 1PM at John Pettibone School in New Milford. For more information, visit the Town website at www.newfairfield.org or www.hrra.org

NEW FAIRFIELD DAY

Join New Fairfield Parks and Recreation for an afternoon of fun! The New Fairfield Town Fair has been rescheduled to Saturday, October 14 from 12-5PM on Memorial field (behind Town Hall). There will be fun events for all ages, including the Snake Dog America Band performing classic hits, the Westchester Circus Aerial Acrobatic Show, the “Got Your Goat” program (create hoofprints, walk, pet and feed the goats!), over 50 booths set up by local businesses and organizations, a fire truck showcase, food and beverages provided by Icons, Candlewood Creamery and the Moonlight Mobile Kitchen.

HALLOWEEN EVENTS

The Parks and Rec Department has once again planned fun, family-oriented activities for the month of October. Join the ghoulish fun and decorate your house creepy for display this October! Let Parks and Rec know by October 16 if you would like to be included on the list for the community to view and enjoy your creations! Our popular Tricks and Treats Fest will be held on October 27. Bring the family dressed in costume to Trick or Treat at businesses throughout the Town Center!

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

Next week is Fire Prevention Week, a great time to test your smoke alarms and review your home escape plan. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level and should be connected so that when one sounds, they all sound. Detectors should be tested monthly and replaced every 10 years.

Everyone in your home should be familiar with your escape plan and should be aware of at least two ways out of every room (If possible). You should identify an outdoor meeting place at a safe distance from your home and practice your plan at least twice per year using different ways out of the house. Teach children how to escape on their own in the event that you can’t help them. If the alarm sounds, GET OUT AND STAY OUT, if you have to escape through smoke, GET LOW AND GO, and CALL the fire department from outside your home. More tips can be found at nfpa.org.

ALERT NOW

As we edge closer to winter, I strongly recommend participating in the New Fairfield “Alert Now” system to receive notification from the Selectman’s Office regarding weather alerts and emergency response. The system is used to provide information on road closures, power restoration and shelter services. You may choose to receive notification by land line phone, cell phone, text and/or e-mail. To sign up for the service, fill out the form on the Home Page of the Town Website, www.newfairfield.org. Emergency information will also be posted on the website, as well as on the Town Facebook Page “Town of New Fairfield CT”.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, September 28, 2023, PAGE 2

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THANK YOU

On Saturday, we celebrated the opening of our beautiful new High School, our students, teachers, staff and Administrators, our Town’s commitment to Education, and all those who have helped us reach our goal. It has been fascinating to watch as the pieces of the puzzle have come together. From the referendum to educational specifications, design, state approvals, permitting, financing, site work, construction, furnishing and technology, it takes a small army of people to build a school. Our taxpayers went to the polls in October 2019 and supported this ambitious project. Together with the new Consolidated Early Learning Academy, this is the largest capital project the Town has ever undertaken and I thank you for recognizing the need, acknowledging the cost, and voting “yes.”

None of us could have imagined what was around the corner in 2020. March brought the start of the pandemic, a disruption of our lives that we could never have imagined, and the supply issues and increased costs that followed. But through it all, our Permanent Building Committee, School Administrators, Board of Education and our talented design and construction team designed and built the new school, opening on schedule and within budget. I want to offer my thanks and congratulations to all of those who have spent countless hours on this project:

The School Administration and Board of Education for identifying the need for new schools and envisioning 21^st century schools that will meet the needs of all students and carry them forward into the future,

Our State Senator, Julie Kushner, State Representative Pat Callahan and former Representative Ken Gucker, for assisting us through the School Construction Grant Process and always advocating for our taxpayers and students, ensuring that we received the maximum state grant funding possible,

Our Treasurer, Terry Friedman and Deputy Treasurer, Ed Sbordone for executing the bond issuances necessary to fund the project,

Our Town Officials, Boards and Commissions, for reviewing permit applications and ensuring that the projects met all Town requirements,

Our Owners Representative, Colliers International, led by Scott Pellman and Mark Schweitzer,

Our Construction Manager, O & G Industries, led by Joe Vetro, and the hundreds of individuals who did the work of constructing the building,

Our Architects, JCJ Architecture, led by Christine O’Hare, and finally,

the dedicated members of our Permanent Building Committee, chaired by Don Kellogg, P.E., who have worked tirelessly over the past three years to ensure that the new schools meet necessary educational and safety specifications, were constructed to specifications, and finished on time and within budget. These volunteers are Professional Engineers and construction professionals with decades of experience designing and constructing large commercial and municipal buildings. Over the past four years, after putting in a full day of work, they have returned to New Fairfield to attend meetings, review drawings and specifications, discuss budgets and monitor the progress of construction. We are very lucky to have this dedicated group of professionals serving on the PBC.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, September 21, 2023, page 2

SELECTMAN’S UPDATE

DRAINAGE: As many of you witnessed last week, the abundance of rain this summer has exacerbated drainage issues around Town. We are asking for your help to reduce the risk of flooding in your neighborhood.

Please DO NOT blow leaves, cut grass or other debris into nearby waterways. This debris finds its way into storm drains causing them to overflow.
Please keep the out flow of any drainage pipes on your property clear of any debris. If storm water cannot exit the pipe, it will result in localized flooding.
If you observe storm drains that are filled with debris or pipes that are compromised in any way, please call Public Works at 203-312-5628.

RIBBON CUTTING: Please join us for the ribbon cutting for the new High School! The ceremony acknowledging all who have worked for the past three years to achieve this goal will be held at the new school on Saturday, September 23 at 10 AM. Tours will be available for community members following the ceremony.

FISH of NEW FAIRFIELD: FISH (Friends in Service Here) is in need of volunteer drivers. FISH of New Fairfield provides rides to medical appointments for New Fairfield residents. However, without drivers, providing this service is extremely difficult. You can select assignments that fit your schedule – even volunteering one ride per month will help FISH continue to offer this service. If interested, send an email to fishofnf@gmail.com.

COVID VACCINES: FDA has approved updated COVID vaccines. CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against the potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19 illness this fall and winter. Updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna will be available later this week. For more information, go to http://www.cdc.gov

BEACH HOUSE UPDATE: I have received many inquiries regarding the status of the beach house project at the Town Park. The design has been completed, and the new building will include a community room, concession stand, indoor restrooms and changing rooms. Demolition of the old building is scheduled for this winter with the goal of opening next summer.

Beach House 1 Beach House 2

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, September 14, 2023, PAGE 2

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TOWN GREEN PROJECT

Over the course of the past fifteen years, we have seen a decline in the condition of our Town center. Commercial spaces have remained vacant, and the buildings have begun to deteriorate – a common concern among Town residents. These conditions not only affect the quality of life for our residents, but also affect property values and negatively impact the Town’s Grand List. In 2019, the BOS appointed the Economic Development Commission to help us identify the root causes of this decline. Together, we identified two areas of concern – the lack of supportive infrastructure and limited opportunities to gather and recreate in the center of Town.

Over the past 10 years, the Town has made substantial investments in infrastructure to support local businesses, including construction of sidewalks throughout the Town center, development of a public drinking water system to provide potable water to properties in the business/commercial zone, and an investigatory study and subsequent design of a sewer collection system for the Town Center to replace aging septic systems in the business/commercial zone. With the help of Parks and Recreation and the Economic Development Commission, the Town has also created annual events such as Sip and Stroll, Trick or Treat Fest, New Fairfield Fair Day, Holiday Caroling, Outdoor Cinema and Summer Concerts to attract residents and visitors to the business/commercial district. These investments have resulted in increased foot traffic in the center of town and a reduction in commercial vacancies.

In December 2021, the Town purchased property totaling 6.5 acres located in the center of Town. We proposed the purchase of the properties with the intention of creating a gathering space to attract more residents to the center of Town and to connect our municipal and recreational properties. This open space connects the municipal property at 4 Brush Hill Road (Town Hall, Memorial Field) to the property at 33 Route 37 (the Senior Center, Community Garden and historic houses managed by Preserve New Fairfield).

The proposed Town Green project will provide dedicated space for artistic events and the opportunity for outdoor gatherings, events, and picnicking, all of which will increase foot traffic in the heart of the business/commercial zone. Future phases of the project include a playground and an ADA compliant nature trail through the adjacent wooded area connecting the Town Green to the Senior Center, Komlo Preserve, and the future Margerie Reservoir multi-use trail. It remains our intention to reuse playground equipment from Consolidated School to create a play area on the Green. I recently completed an application for a Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) Grant to fund this project and should know if we will receive funding before the end of the year.

If our funding request is successful, the project will coincide with a State LOTCIP (Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program) grant to renovate Veteran’s Memorial Park and extend sidewalks in the center of Town.

Town Green Project 091423

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, September 7, 2023, PAGE 2

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SCHOOL BUS SAFETY

It is hard to believe that it’s time for back-to-school! It’s an exciting year as we are opening a brand-new High School. Opening a new school always comes with a few “hiccups” in the beginning, so I am asking for your patience, especially as we introduce a new traffic pattern at the new school. Gillotti Road, home to all our schools, becomes very congested at school arrival and dismissal time. With a new traffic pattern, we strongly recommend that all students ride the bus to school to ease the congestion and to keep everyone safe. If you must drive your child to school, please obey the speed limit and follow the direction of police, crossing guards and Administrators directing traffic. The National Safety Council provide the following safety tips:

Bus Riders An estimated 25 million students nationwide begin and end their day with a trip on a school bus. Designed for safety, with flashing lights, giant mirrors, stop-sign arms and that bright yellow color, students are 70 times more likely to get to school safely when taking a school bus instead of traveling by car, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. School buses are designed to protect students through compartmentalization – closely spaced seats and high, energy-absorbing seat backs. Seat belts protect students, too.

Teach your children school bus safety rules and practice with them.

Go to the bus stop with your child to teach them the proper way to get on and off the bus.
Teach your children to stand 6 feet (or three giant steps) away from the curb.
If your child must cross the street in front of the bus, teach him or her to walk on the side of the road until they are 10 feet ahead of the bus; your child and the bus driver should always be able to see each other.

At the Bus Stop:

Arrive early at the bus stop – at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
Supervise young children.

Around the Bus

Cross in front of the bus – at least 10 feet (or five giant steps) – and make eye contact with the driverbefore crossing.
Never walk behind the bus
If you drop something near the bus, do not pick it up; tell the bus driver instead.

Getting On/Off the Bus

Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus or standing up on the bus.
Use the handrail.
Secure any loose or hanging objects like straps on a backpack or drawstrings on a hood.

Behavior on the Bus:

Buckle up if seat belts are available.
Stay in your seat keeping your head, arms, and papers inside the bus, and talk quietly.
Keep aisles clear of books and bags.

Driving Your Child to School Stay alert and avoid distracted driving.

Obey school zone speed limits and follow your school’s drop-off procedure.
Make eye contact with children who are crossing the street.
Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks.
Never pass a bus loading or unloading children
The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them to safely enter and exit the bus.

Teen Drivers Car crashes are the No. 1 cause of death for teens. Fortunately, there is something we can do.

Teens crash because they are inexperienced; practice with new drivers every week, before and after they get their license.
Set a good example; drive the way you want your teen to drive.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy school year!

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, August 31, 2023, PAGE 2

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SELECTMAN’S UPDATE

It’s hard to believe that it’s almost time for back-to-school! It’s an exciting year as we are opening a brand-new High School. Opening a new school always comes with a few “hiccups” in the beginning, so I am asking for your patience, especially as we introduce a new traffic pattern at the new school. Gillotti Road, home to all New Fairfield schools, becomes very congested at school arrival and dismissal time. With a new traffic pattern, we strongly recommend that all students ride the bus to school to ease the congestion and to keep everyone safe. If you must drive your child to school, please obey the speed limit and follow the direction of police, crossing guards and Administrators directing traffic. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and productive school year!

September is a busy month in New Fairfield! There is something for everyone to enjoy this month as we head into fall:

NEW FAIRFIELD FAIR DAY

Join New Fairfield Parks and Recreation for an afternoon of fun! The New Fairfield Town Fair will be held on Saturday, September 9 (Rain date September 10) from 12-5PM on Memorial field (behind Town Hall). There will be fun events for all ages, including the Snake Dog America Band performing classic hits, the Westchester Circus Aerial Acrobatic Show, the “Got Your Goat” program (create hoofprints, walk, pet and feed the goats!), over 50 booths set up by local businesses and organizations, a fire truck showcase, food and beverages provided by Icons, Candlewood Creamery and the Moonlight Mobile Kitchen.

JUNK IN A TRUNK

The Community Service Club will be hosting “Junk in a Trunk” on September 9 from 9 AM to 3 PM in the Senior Center parking lot. Junk in a Trunk will provide an opportunity for those who have things to sell to sell from their car trunk! A non-refundable donation of $30 made payable to the NF Community Service Club will gain each vendor a designated space with publicity provided to draw tag sale shoppers from far and wide. What you earn from what you sell is yours to keep. This is a perfect opportunity to clear out your basement or attic, raise a little extra cash, and best of all, support the Community Service Club. If you don’t have things to sell this year, come on by and shop for some great bargains!

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP OFF EVENT

The next Household Hazardous Waste Event will be held at Miller-Driscoll School in Wilton on Saturday, September 9 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. For more information, visit the Town website at http://www.newfairfield.org.

SEPTEMBER 11 REMEMBRANCE

There will be a solemn ceremony of remembrance on Sunday, September 10 at 5PM. The ceremony will take place at the 9/11 Memorial, located behind the Senior Center on the South side of the building.

ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS-PAINT THE TOWN PURPLE

You will notice that Town Hall will be illuminated by purple lights and adorned with purple ribbon during the week of September 11-18, as September is Alzheimer’s Awareness month. The Town and some businesses are participating in promoting awareness and education for patients and caregivers afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease during this week. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at Town Hall on Friday, September 8th at 10:00 AM to kick off the event.

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY

Please join us for the ribbon cutting for the new High School. The ceremony acknowledging all who have worked for the past three years to achieve this goal will take place at the new school on Saturday, September 23 at 10 AM. Tours will be available for community members following the ceremony.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, August 24, 2023, PAGE 2

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ARPA PROJECT UPDATE

In October 2022, the Town approved allocation of American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds to the ten projects described below. I am pleased to report that we have completed 3 projects, have made significant progress on 5 others and are in the beginning stages of the remaining two. I have provided brief updates on each project.

BUSINESS/COMMERCIAL SEWER DESIGN AND PERMITTING $1.6 million

Most septic systems serving our small businesses in the center of Town are close to 30 years old and some are starting to experience failures. The business/commercial zone is located above the largest drinking water aquifer in New Fairfield, presenting a potential environmental concern should these systems fail. Ball Pond Brook, which discharges directly to Candlewood Lake, passes through the business/commercial zone and is also at risk of contamination from aging septic systems. Reliance on septic systems also severely restricts both the types of businesses that can operate in Town and the potential growth of our existing small businesses. The project could be expanded to include New Fairfield schools and Town buildings, also served by aging septic systems.

Work continues toward a “shovel ready” sewer project for the New Fairfield business/commercial district and schools. The contracted engineering firm has completed an aerial survey of the proposed sewer route and will be conducting soil borings along the route in upcoming months. The engineers have also identified permitting requirements and begun work on the preliminary design documents. We are pursuing funding opportunities for the project.

CoA FIREHOUSE RENOVATIONS $455,000

The modifications will include providing additional accommodations for contracted paramedics, showers for use by members after fighting fires, a modern gear washer and dryer and a new air compressor to fill SCBA bottles.

The project has been completed.

BEACH HOUSE RECONSTRUCTION $700,000

The Town has long recognized the need to reconstruct the Beach House at the Town Park.

The survey of the property is complete, and demolition plans for the old building have been completed. The Architect has developed preliminary plans for a beach house on the same footprint as the existing building. The facility will include changing rooms, rest rooms, a medical room, concession area and community room. Demolition of the old building is expected later this year.

SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS $150,000

The Economic Development Commission has proposed funding grants to local small businesses impacted by the pandemic.

The EDC has provided grants to 20 local small businesses impacted by the pandemic. They have also expanded the grant program to impacted not-for-profit organizations.

PREMIUM PAY FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY EMPLOYEES $265,000

The working group recommended premium pay for public health and safety employees and volunteer firefighters.

This project is complete.

BALL POND WATERSHED STORMWATER DRAINAGE $150,000

Over several decades, stormwater drainage has caused severe erosion and flooding in the neighborhoods located between Ball Pond and Putnam Lake, impacting numerous homeowners in the area. The Town Engineer is proposing the study and design of stormwater mitigation measures to control the flow of stormwater in the area.

The Town Engineer has worked with a consulting engineer to design a stormwater detention system to mitigate the erosion and flooding caused by stormwater flows in this area. Subsequently, they have identified property to be purchased by the Town for construction of storm water retention structures and have negotiated necessary purchase agreements. Following required town approvals of the land purchases, final designs will be completed to elevate the project to shovel-ready status. We are pursuing funding opportunities for the project.

COMMUNITY CENTER FEASIBILITY STUDY $25,000

Many residents support the concept of a Community Center in New Fairfield. Before moving forward, several important questions need to be answered before any decisions are made. With that in mind, we are proposing a feasibility study to explore the possibility of a Community Center in Town.

Preliminary discussions have been held with our architectural consultant to determine the approximate building size to accommodate the needs of Parks and Recreation and Social Services. The most critical phase of this project will be community forum, beginning this fall, to identify the needs of Town residents.

EMERGENCY HOUSING FUND $25,000

After reviewing the needs in the community, the Social Services Director has recommended the creation of an Emergency Housing Fund to assist residents who may be on the verge of homelessness.

The fund has been established.

PUBLIC SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS $615,000

The Emergency Management Director and Resident Sergeant have made recommendations on security improvements to Town buildings and Communications infrastructure.

Communications equipment has been specified and ordered.

FIRE MARSHAL VEHICLE $65,000

The Fire Marshal currently uses his personal vehicle when responding to emergency events. The Fire Marshal vehicle should be clearly marked and visible for both the Marshal’s safety and to designate official business. All Town Officials are provided with Town vehicles for the same reasons.

A vehicle has been specified and will be purchased subject to availability.

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

To be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, August 24, 2023, PAGE 5

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THIS AND THAT

With the summer drawing to a close and people starting to return to Town from vacation, I thought I’d review a few things that are underway.

TOWN GREEN – Plans are moving ahead for developing a Town Green on property behind Town Hall. Voters overwhelmingly approved purchasing the property for this purpose a few years ago. The next important step is to find funding for development of an amphitheater, picnic area, walking trails, and small playground. To that end, the Board of Selectmen last week approved a resolution authorizing the First Selectman to apply for a grant under Connecticut’s Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) for the first phase of this project – the amphitheater and picnic area. The application was submitted at the end of last week and we should hear back within a couple of months. Competition for these state grants is intense; we’ll keep trying if we don’t succeed this round.

OPENING OF NEW HIGH SCHOOL – Final touches are being put on the new high school, as teachers report back to work next week. New Fairfield High School will begin Academic Year 23-24 as scheduled on September 5 in its new building. You can see highlights of the building from a presentation made last week to the Board of Education at minute 28 at https://vimeopro.com/user53774442/new-fairfield-board-of-education/video/855702728. It really is a spectacular facility that will serve our students well for many decades. The ribbon cutting for the new high school is set for Saturday, September 23 at 10:00 AM. Tours will be available after the ceremony. Further information on the tours will be forthcoming.

This will be the second new school New Fairfield has opened in the space of a year. Given the challenges of the last three years – COVID, tough supply chain conditions, and a tight labor market – opening these two schools on time and within the budget is a major achievement. I want to say a big thank you to the members of the Permanent Building Committee – all of them volunteers. They are Don Kellogg (Chair), Mike Del Monaco (Vice-Chair), Paul Boniello, Nicholas F. Ciminello, Maureen K. Clegg PE, and Ed Sbordone (alternate). They met frequently during the past three years, reviewed all plans and documents, and held the contractors’ feet to the fire on plans, costs and schedules. Their professional knowledge, long hours, and dedication were invaluable. We all owe them a debt of gratitude for a job well done.

PLAN OF CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT – You may have noticed lawn signs around town urging you to take a survey. The most recent ones are red and featured the clever message: “PLAN like your kids will live here.” They are meant to draw your attention to a survey sponsored by the Planning Commission in preparation for the revision of our Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD), a document that guides decisions concerning development in our town. It is a state-mandated document that is to be revised every ten years. The survey is meant to understand what characteristics of our town we value and what we might like to see changed. You can find the survey at: https://www.newfairfield.org/Home/Components/News/News/773/1069. The results will guide the efforts of the Planning Commission to put in place more effective guidance than the current POCD, which was approved in 2014, contains. I urge you to take the survey and stay engaged with the process as drafts of the POCD emerge for public review during the next eighteen months or so.

MARGERIE RESERVOIR TRAIL – Members from New Fairfield and Danbury of the Margerie Reservoir Joint Advisory Committee have been meeting over the summer, with the latest meeting last week. Contracts will be let early this fall to map wetlands and to scope a possible path for the trail. I walked a little over half the property with New Fairfield Committee members Peter Hearn and Jeff Main last month. There are quite a few wetlands – and quite a few storm sewer outflows coming across the property – so this mapping is an important first step. A consultant will be hired later this year or early next to start a more formal process of mapping the trail, determining material, suggesting amenities (benches, etc), outlining ongoing maintenance responsibilities, etc. This will include several opportunities for public input. State money is already available to underwrite this process.

I had a great summer, with multiple visits from grandkids and other family. I hope you did too.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, August 3, 2023, PAGE 2

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Hurricane Preparedness

Although Atlantic Hurricane Season began on June 1, we are now entering the “heart” of the season in New England, the months of August and September. Southern New England is subject to coastal flooding, widespread wind damage and small stream and river flooding during hurricanes and tropical storms. Since 1900, 39 tropical systems have impacted Connecticut – 25 hurricanes and 14 tropical storms.

As we learned in May of 2018 and during Tropical Storm Isaias in 2020, it is not uncommon for New Fairfield residents to be isolated and without power for an extended period of time following a severe weather event. In preparation for a hurricane or tropical storm, the National Weather Service recommends having enough food, water, and other supplies on hand to last for 72 hours. A basic emergency kit should include:

Water -one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for
drinking and sanitation
Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Fuel for generator and cars and
Supplies as needed for children and/or seniors.

You may also consider:

Prescription medications
Non-prescription medications, such as pain relievers and allergy
medication,
Glasses and contact lens solution and
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes.
Pet food and extra water for your pet

The National Weather Service also recommends having a family emergency plan which includes:

a plan for receiving emergency alerts and warnings,
a shelter plan should you be displaced by the storm,
a family communication plan,
plans to address medical needs, prescription medications and equipment, and accommodations for pets.

If you have not signed up for the “Alert Now” system to receive notification from the Selectman’s Office regarding weather alerts and emergency response, I encourage you to fill out the form on the Home Page of the Town Website, http://www.newfairfield.org. Following a significant weather event, I use “Alert Now” to provide information on road closures, power restoration and shelter services. You may choose to receive notification by land line phone, cell phone, text and/or e-mail. Finally, if you or a family member has special medical needs and an extended power outage could impact their care, please contact the New Fairfield Director of Emergency Management at 203-312-5723 to complete a “Medical Disability or Special Assistance Notification Form.” This information will remain confidential but will alert emergency responders to your needs.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Illuminated Boat Parade: Parks and Recreation will host the Illuminated Boat Parade this Friday, AUGUST 4 (rain date August 5. New Fairfield residents can view the parade from the Town beach, which will open at 7:30.

Summer Concert Series: Split Decision will perform on Memorial Field on Thursday, August 10, followed by Not Sorry Band on August 24. Concerts begin at 6:30.

Outdoor Movies: Parks and Recreation will present “The Rise of Gru” on Memorial Field beginning at dusk on Friday, August 11.

New Fairfield Day will be held on Saturday, September 9 at Memorial Field – more to come!

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

To be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, July 20, 2023, PAGE TBD

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I don’t know about you, but I will be happy to have this year’s town budget saga settled and behind us. I am hopeful that the referendum this Saturday (July 22) will do exactly that. I am going to vote “Yes.”

Saturday’s vote is two months later than it should normally occur and follows voter rejection of the Board of Finance’s first two budget proposals. The last vote on June 24 failed overwhelmingly, with residents voting 2:1 against both the town budget and the education budget. The message was pretty clear that voters felt the education budget was still too low and that the Board of Finance’s attempt to reduce the police overtime budget by $100,00 was not acceptable.

The third budget before voters this coming Saturday is a clear improvement. It

restored $195,000 the BoF previously cut from Education and the $100,000 cut from police overtime and
provided an additional $7100 to the Board of Education’s capital fund, a small down payment on replacing an aging oil tank.

This still leaves significant cuts of $500,000 to the original BoE budget and $345,000 to the Town budget from the original proposals. These cuts will hurt, but it is time to move forward.

The proposed budget is also an improvement over the previous two versions by

reducing the contribution to the medical fund, as recommended by the town’s Finance Director and our medical consultant,
reducing the use of the bond premium by $400,000, thereby eliminating the hole in next year’s budget that would have required a significant tax increase to cover, and
making use of unexpected revenue from the State of $241,000.

This year’s budget process was unnecessarily painful, with the Board of Finance majority choosing to ignore the recommendations of consultants with expertise on large ticket items such as debt payment and health insurance and the bipartisan recommendations of the officials elected to manage the schools and town. Even more astoundingly, the Board ignored the plain message of hundreds of voters who sat through hours of meetings to tell the BoF they were headed in the wrong direction. Besides frustration, the BoF cost New Fairfield taxpayers over $100,000 – over $80,000 in lost interest because of the month’s delay in collecting property taxes as normally scheduled and $20,000 for running two extra referenda.

Because of the BoF delays, the Board of Selectmen was forced to step in and set the mill rate before the start of the new fiscal year, as required by State statute. We did so on June 26, setting the mill rate at $34.90/$1000 assessed value for homes and $32.46/$1000 assessed value for cars (a state cap). This overall results in a 6.78% increase over last year. (The second BoF majority budget that failed had a mill rate increase of 6.25%. The difference between the two proposals is $42/year on a home with a median assessed value of $220,000.)

It’s important to keep in mind how we got here. A number of factors contributed to this year’s larger than normal tax increase. We:

built two beautiful new schools – and are opening them on time and within the budget. For the first time this year, the cost of bonding for our schools is having a significant impact on taxes;
have come through an inflationary period with cost of living increases well above 7% — and above the proposed increase to be voted on July 22. Schools and local government are not immune to cost increases due to inflation;
are paying more than $300,000 additional this fiscal year to sustain 24×7 ambulance service;
have a full complement of school resource officers at all of our schools;
are still dealing with the overhang of COVID on student performance, necessitating sustained focus and resources in our schools.

For the first time since this year’s budget cycle began in March, members of all three Boards have agreed on a budget to be presented to voters. I support the proposal and will vote “Yes.”

Voting for the budget referendum will be at the Senior Center from 10am – 8pm on Saturday, July 22, 2023. Absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk at Town Hall. Town Hall hours are Monday – Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM and on Friday from 8:30 AM to Noon. The Town Clerk will also be available to issue absentee ballots until 8:00 PM on Thursday, July 20. Please contact the Town Clerk at 203-312-5615 if you require assistance with absentee voting.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 22, 2023, PAGE 2

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Selectman’s Update

FY 2024 Budget: On June 26, the BOS met to set the mill rate for FY 2023/2024 pursuant to Section 12-123 of the Connecticut General Statutes. The Board agreed that we must move forward to ensure that the Town can begin collecting the tax revenue necessary to pay current operating expenses without depleting the general fund.

The Board set a rate of $34.90/$1000 of assessed value for real estate and personal property, and $32.46/$1000 of assessed value for motor vehicles, a cap which is set by the State. This rate reflects the sentiment of the taxpayers with a minimal increase above the proposed 34.71 rate that failed on June 24. The mill rate results in a 6.78% increase over last year, when calculated on the entire Grand List, versus the 6.25% increase that was rejected by the voters. For reference, a taxpayer with property assessed at the median value of $221,000 would pay $42 more per year at the 34.90 rate than at the 34.71 rate.

On June 28, the BOF voted to approve a third budget to present to taxpayers which results in a mill rate equal to that set by the Selectmen. It is anticipated that the machine vote will be held on or about July 22. The Board made the following changes to the budget which failed at referendum on June 24:

Restored $195,900 to the BOE operating budget, resulting in a net reduction of $500,000,
Added $7,100 to the BOE capital budget to address an aging underground oil tank,
Restored $100,000 to the police overtime budget to ensure coverage for CELA SRO and mandatory minimums on patrol,
Reduced the $50,000 added to FD Apparatus fund on 5/31 by $25,000,
Reduced contribution to medical fund by $150,000 to reflect the recommendation of the Town’s insurance consultant,
Reduced the use of bond premium by $400,000 to avoid a budgetary “hole” in the following year’s budget, and
Added $241,186 in unexpected increased revenue from the State.

While this budget is not ideal and represents significant reductions of $345,000 to the BOS budget and $500,000 to the BOE budget, the BOF has restored critical funding for police overtime, BOE operations and BOE capital and has alleviated some pressure on next year’s budget by reserving more bond premium. I support the proposal and will vote yes to move the Town and Schools forward.

DOC Permits: Annual Drop Off Center permits are required to dispose of household waste and expire each year on June 30. No permit is required to dispose of mattresses, electronics, or glass. New permits can be purchased at the DOC during normal hours of operation, Tuesday and Saturday from 8:00 AM until 3:45 PM, and on Thursdays from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. You may fill out the form online, print it and bring it with you to the DOC with payment, or you can obtain the form at the DOC and fill it out on site. Forms and fee information can be found on the Town website www.newfairfield.org by clicking on the ‘Recycling Info’ button on the home page. The DOC accepts checks, debit and credit cards – NO CASH.

Summer Fun: Summer concerts and movies on Memorial Field are under way and will continue through July featuring The Chase Band on July 13, “The Rise of Gru” on July 21 and Not Sorry Band on July 27. The annual Illuminated Boat Parade will be held on July 14, and the Town beach is now open full time from 10:30 – 6:00 every day. There are also still openings in the sports and activity camps offered by Parks and Rec. For more information, visit the Town website www.newfairfield.org , and click on Parks and Recreation under the Municipal Departments tab.

Don’t forget the Summer Reading program “Find Your Voice” at the New Fairfield Library. There are programs for kids, teens, and adults! The more you read, the greater your chances to win gift cards and the grand prize, a Kindle Paperwhite. Check it out here: https://newfairfieldlibrary.libguides.com/summer-reading-2023/

Want to get outside? The Friends of Ball Pond will sponsor the Annual Music Around the Pond event on July 15 from 5:00 PM until sunset. Bring your kayak! Check out the Candlewood Valley Regional Land Trust properties in New Fairfield. Try the trails at Komlo Preserve, Sweetcake Mountain Preserve or Finn’s Land Preserve. For more information, visit the CVRLT website: https://candlewoodvalleyrlt.org/properties/ . The Senior Center also has many programs to offer this summer. Check them out at: http://www.newfairfieldseniorcenter.com/

Have fun!

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 22, 2023, PAGE 2

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Selectman’s Update

Budget Referendum: The next budget referendum will be on Saturday, June 24 from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM at the NF Senior Center located at 33 Route 37. Absentee ballots are available at the Town Clerk’s Office in Town Hall, Monday – Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM and on Friday from 8:30 AM to Noon. The Town Clerk will also be available to process absentee ballots until 8:00 PM on Thursday, June 22. Please contact the Town Clerk at 203-312-5615 if you require assistance with absentee voting.

The proposed budget differs from the previous proposal which voters rejected on May 20 in two ways:

The BOF cut the Town Police overtime budget by $100,000 – almost half of the budgeted amount of $210,000 and added that $100,000 to the BOE budget. Overtime is critical to the Town’s ability to conduct daily police operations. The department requires overtime to provide:

- a second SRO on the elementary school campus which now serves 900 students and staff,
- mandatory minimum coverage for patrol as part of the rotating schedule,
- mandatory minimum coverage when officers are absent for vacation, sick, comp and training days,
- mandatory minimum coverage when officers must complete investigations, transport arrested individuals to Troop A in Southbury or appear in Court,
- security, crowd and traffic control at sporting events, Town meetings and Town events such as Sip and Stroll, Trick or Treat Fest and New Fairfield Day and,
- traffic control around Squantz Pond State Park in the summer months.

The proposed budget does not allow for the staff needed to provide these services. Further, State statute does not allow municipal officials to spend funds that have not been appropriated to a specific budget line – therefore, the BOS cannot budget less than a department needs hoping to “find” surplus elsewhere in the budget. The Boards may only use budget transfers to fund unexpected expenditures which are more than what was budgeted for a specific line item.

2. The BOF reduced the amount of bond premium to be applied to next year’s debt service payment by $300,000. This will allow the Town to distribute those funds more evenly over the next 3 years, easing the burden of the debt on taxpayers. Bond premiums can only be utilized to pay down debt.

Reminder from the NFPD: The New Fairfield Police have asked me to remind residents that this is the time of year when we see an uptick in car thefts. Please lock your car doors and remove all valuables, including keys and garage door openers. If you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood, please call the police.

Alert Now: If you are new to Town, I strongly recommend participating in the New Fairfield on “Alert Now” system to receive notification from the Selectman’s Office regarding weather alerts and other public service notifications. The system is used to provide information on road closures, power restoration and shelter services. You may choose to receive notification by land line phone, cell phone, text and/or e-mail. To sign up for the service, fill out the form on the Home Page of the Town Website, www.newfairfield.org. Emergency information will also be posted on the website, as well as on the Town Facebook Page “Town of New Fairfield CT.”

News from Parks and Rec: Registration for Summer Camps is open on-line! These include- Mr. Akter’s music share camp, Tramazzo/Giuliano variety camp, Mr. Flynn’s forensic science camp, Angelo Sbano’s theater/drama camps, Ms. Strashun’s sensational S.T.E.A.M summer camps, and coach Pardalis/Schlosser/Keller sport camps…..more information can be found on the Town website www.newfairfield.org under Municipal Departments and Parks and Recreation. Sign up soon as spaces are filling up! Coming soon…The Annual NF Illuminated Boat Parade is on Friday July 14th! Decorate your boat and call us to participate in this year’s festive parade.

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

To be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 22, 2023, PAGE TBD

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Where to begin on the long-drawn-out saga of the budget? Let’s start at the conclusion: I am going to vote against both second budgets for Town and Schools proposed by the Board of Finance majority at the referendum on Saturday (6/24). And here is why. The second budget proposal:

Jeopardizes law enforcement programs (including SRO positions) by cutting $100,000 from the town budget for police overtime. While the Board of Finance has the statutory authority to make such line-item cuts for the Board of Selectmen, to cut this line item in half without consulting with Town officials about the impact on law enforcement is also not well-grounded decision-making. Through careful planning and hiring officers specifically for School Resource Office (SRO) positions, the town has reduced its police overtime budget in recent years. Halving the overtime budget as provided in this budget jeopardizes our ability to perform law enforcement obligations, including providing a second SRO at the elementary school campus; covering all patrol shifts; covering for vacation, sick, comp and training days; covering for transport of prisoners to Southbury or to appear in court; providing for security and traffic control at town events and Squantz Pond.
Does not restore enough funding to the education budget. The proposal before voters restores $100,000 of the $800,000 the Board of Finance majority cut from the Board of Education budget. This is not enough to make sure staffing and programs are in place to improve the curriculum and raise test scores and to help our most vulnerable children. Many students are still struggling in the aftermath of COVID. Members of the BoF were invited by the Board of Education to visit the schools to observe the current school environment, but they declined. Relying on memories of classroom experiences from well over a decade – sometimes several decades — ago to override the recommendations of those officials specifically elected to oversee education does not lead to well-grounded decisions.
Leaves a hole in next year’s budget of over $1 million. Although this second budget decreased the amount of bond premium used from the first budget, it still uses more than needed to smooth the debt payment curve. As a result, next year there will be an additional jump of $1 million in debt payment, equal to a 2 percent increase in property taxes.

In putting together this budget, the Board of Finance majority ignored the results of the vote and its advisory questions for the first budget referendum, which were to put a meaningful amount of money back into the education budget and to leave the town budget as it was. During the BoF May 31 meeting, the BoF majority attempted to restrict discussion of their new budget proposal and would not agree to adding another round of advisory questions. To me, that signals that they have little regard for what the residents of New Fairfield think or want.

The budget to be voted on June 24 results in a 6.25% property tax increase, up from the original 5.70% in the defeated budget, largely because of the decreased use of the bond premium. There are reasonable alternative approaches to what the BoF majority has sent forward to voters that barely raise the property tax increase and are more in line with what residents have been telling the Board in comments in April and in the referendum defeat on May 20. BoF member Cheryl Reedy has made three proposals, the latest one published in the June 1 Town Tribune restores full funding to the education budget and leaves the Town budget as approved by voters on May 20, without the cut to police overtime. It lowers the use of the bond premium so as not to create a hole next year. Reedy’s proposal would result in a 6.34% increase. The difference between the June 24 referendum budget and Reedy’s June 1 budget proposal is less than $7.00 per year for someone with a home at median assessed value.

For all of the above reasons, I will vote “no” on the upcoming referendum on both the Town and Schools proposal. If this second budget proposal is defeated on June 24, the Board of Selectmen will exercise their statutory authority and approve a mill rate increase so that tax bills can be sent out and the Town can avoid having to dip into the General Fund to pay ongoing expenses of town and school operations. This is not something I want to do but will feel I must do to keep the Town moving forward in the absence of the BoF approving a budget the majority of New Fairfield voters can agree to. The Town will continue to vote on budgets until one is passed.

The second budget referendum is Saturday, June 24 from 10am-8pm at the New Fairfield Senior Center.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 8, 2023, PAGE 2

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Budget Update

Last week, the BOF voted to reduce the BOS (Town) police overtime budget by $100,000 and add $100,000 to the BOE budget. Chairman Wes Marsh also introduced a motion to reduce the use of bond premium from $2.5 million to $2.2 million, which ultimately passed. This reduction to the Town budget was made without consultation with the Board of Selectmen, and the cut would cripple our police operations.

The Town has an obligation to provide police protection to our residents, and it is a top priority of the BOS. Police overtime is carefully budgeted and managed to ensure that we meet our public safety obligations. The $100,000 that was cut from police overtime is almost half of the budgeted amount of $210,000.

Some facts about our Police Department. We are a Resident Trooper Town with police operations directed and supervised by a Resident Sergeant. We employ 5 New Fairfield Patrol Officers and 3 full -time School Resource Officers (SROs) supplemented by 6 Resident State Troopers. The Patrol Officers and Troopers cover three shifts per day, seven days per week, and the SROs work in the schools every school day and return to the patrol rotation during the busy summer months. When on patrol, the officers work on a rotating weekly schedule of 5 days on, 3 days off (5-3), followed by another 5-3, and a 5-2. Overtime is the most effective way for the Town to meet its obligations, as detailed below:

to provide a second SRO on the elementary school campus which now serves 900 students and staff,
to ensure mandatory minimum coverage for patrol as part of the rotating schedule, covering 11-17 shifts per month,
to ensure mandatory minimums when officers are absent for vacation, sick, comp and training days,
to ensure mandatory minimums when officers must complete investigations, transport arrested individuals to Troop A in Southbury or appear in Court,
to provide security, crowd and traffic control at sporting events, Town meetings and Town events such as Sip and Stroll, Trick or Treat Fest and New Fairfield Day and,
to provide traffic control around Squantz Pond State Park in the summer months.

The budget proposed by the BOF does not allow for the staffing needed to provide these services.

In previous years, the BOS and BOE were an integral part of the budget discussion – providing recommendations, data, and operating experience to the BOF at every budget meeting. This deliberative process resulted in reasonable budgets that were supported by all three Boards and ultimately were approved by the taxpayers. Unfortunately, the current BOF has not included the BOS and BOE in their deliberations. Most of the BOF discussions about the budget were conducted privately without the scrutiny of the public and the elected members of the BOS and BOE.

To make the current reduction to police overtime, the BOF relied on an obscure statute that gives them line-item control in the Town budget. Historically this statute has never been used – why not? Because of situations exactly like this one. Typically, the BOF will ask the Selectmen what the impact of such a drastic reduction would be on Town operations before making such an uninformed and reckless decision.

This cut follows the previous round of devastating cuts to Town and BOE operations. I am extremely concerned that both budgets are so sparse that there is no room for unexpected expenses, not enough contribution to capital funds to maintain our buildings, infrastructure and equipment, and just barely enough funding to cover core operational expenses. Further, the budget is constructed in such a way that makes it impossible for us to restore the programs and services that were cut any time in the near future.

The BOS has warned a Town meeting to set the date for the machine vote on the next budget referendum for June 13 at 7:00 PM in the Senior Center Community Room. The machine vote must be held between 7 and 14 days after the Town meeting on June 13. This process will continue until a budget passes.

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As was submitted but not published by the Town Tribune on May 18, 2023

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By a 4-2 party-line vote, the Board of Finance passed a budget on April 27 after 3:00am. Newly appointed Board member Kim Hanson introduced a proposal after 11:00pm that would form the basis for the budget proposal to be sent to voters. Hanson’s proposal was discussed among majority members of the BoF earlier that day, but not shared with the rest of the Board or the public until after 11:00pm, nearly four hours after the meeting began. After several more hours of debate, the BoF passed the budget that will be before voters on May 20. The four elements of the budget are:

A cut of $800,000 to the Board of Education’s proposed operating budget, for a total of $39,864,503 and a further cut of $100,000 from the BoE capital fund for a mandated replacement of an oil tank, for a total of $148,575.
A cut of $345,000 of the Board of Selectmen’s operating budget for a total of $12,503,997. The Board added $50,000 to the BoS capital budget for Fire Department reserve for a total of $882,070.
The allocation of $7,400,000 to medical insurance fund to pay the Town and School portion of medical insurance for employees.
Application of $2,500,000 of bond premium against debt service of $8,165,593 primarily for school construction.

This formulation produces a mill rate increase of 5.70%.

This budget will significantly reduce services for the schools through the reduction of 9.6 positions, the reduction of focus on curriculum, and cutbacks to Gifted and Talented, STEAM and interventionists for the most vulnerable children. It will also significantly reduce paving and cut back Library services and supplies. And because of the way the bond premium is applied, the budget will lead to further cuts in school and town services next year.

One of the largest increases in the budget this year is the increase in debt service after having done the last round of bonding for the schools in March. Overall, New Fairfield has saved $15 million in interest from initial estimates because of low interest rates until this year. The variable that will make a huge difference this year AND in coming years is the way the BoF majority has engineered the use of bond premium, which is a credit provided by municipal bond issuers as part of the bonding process. Under BoF policy, it can only be applied to debt service; its best use is to lessen the impact on taxpayers by offsetting early debt payments and smoothing the peak increases in debt service.

The optimal use of the bond premium would have been $1,750,000, as recommended by the town’s Finance Director. This approach would have produced a gentle curve of debt repayment, minimizing the impact on taxpayers. Instead with the $2,500,000 use of bond premium to offset this year’s property tax increase, the small remaining amount of bond premium will do little to reduce the debt service increase next year. With this tactic, the Board of Finance majority have insured that New Fairfield taxpayers start next year with an increase of $1,900,000 in debt service next budget year compared to $363,000 in this proposed budget. This “hole in the budget” insures a minimum property tax increase of 3.3%, without taking into account contractual pay increases, increases in utility costs, expected increases in the bus contract, all totaling over $1 million. The BoF majority created an additional hole of at least $100,000 in school capital costs, by cutting that amount designated for use in a mandatory oil tank replacement.

This eleventh hour move was a deliberate tactic on the part of the BoF majority to impose sharp cuts this year AND to severely impact next year’s budget as well. Because it was introduced so late in the process, there was no time for making the public aware of their tactic and discussing it. The large holes the BoF majority created in the budget for next year will tie the hands of the BoF elected in November and will almost certainly lead to more budget cuts.

I cannot support the cuts to the school and education budgets and just as importantly, I cannot support the reductions this BoF is forcing in next year’s budget. I will vote NO/TOO LOW on both the school and town budgets on May 20.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, May 18, 2023, PAGE 2

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Selectman’s Update

Budget Vote: The annual budget referendum will be held on Saturday, May 20 from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at the Middle School. Absentee Ballots are available in the Town Clerk’s Office Monday – Thursday from 8:30 – 5:00 and on Friday from 8:30 – noon. For more information on absentee ballots and eligibility to vote on referenda, please visit the town Clerk’s page on the Town website, www.newfairfield.org

Sip and Stroll: It’s that time again! Sip and Stroll will be held on Saturday, May 20 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM. Sip & Stroll along the sidewalks in New Fairfield, you will discover great things businesses have to offer! Tickets are $30 per person (age 21& up) which includes a specialty glass & map of participating businesses. Register online at parksandrec.newfairfield.org or call 203-312-5633. Glasses are limited for this event and may sell out! Pick up your glass and map at New Fairfield Town Hall, 4 Brush Hill Rd. between 4:00 and 6:00.

Candlewood Lake Clean-up: Join the Candlewood Lake Authority at the New Fairfield Town Park on Saturday, May 20, for the annual J. Marsicano and F. Cioffi Memorial Candlewood Lake Clean Up. Sign up and find more information on our website https://candlewoodlakeauthority.org/news

Guiderail Replacement: The Connecticut Department of Transportation has begun a Guiderail Upgrade project along Route 39 and Milltown Road in New Fairfield. The project consists of upgrading existing wood pole rail systems to current standard systems along Route 39 between Route 37 and the Danbury town line. The upgrades began on Monday May 15,2023 and continue through Monday July 10, 2023. No work performed on the day before or the day after Memorial Day and July 4th Holidays. Motorists can expect lane closures on Route 39 and Milltown Road. Traffic control personnel and signs will be utilized to guide motorists through the work zone. The regular work schedule for this project is 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Monday – Friday). Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this vicinity.

A reminder from our Animal Control Officer, Kim Kraska: “Animal Control would like to remind all residents that leaving your dog in the car for ANY amount of time can quickly result in heatstroke for an animal, which can lead to death.

Most people don’t know that even on mild days, with temperatures in low 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit! In warmer 85+ degrees Fahrenheit, temperatures can reach 115 Fahrenheit degrees within 10-20 minutes, even if a car window is left open or the car is parked in the shade! Dogs, like humans, can suffer from heatstroke and heat exhaustion. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, diarrhea, mental dullness or loss of consciousness, uncoordinated movement, and full collapse. It is essential that a dog displaying these symptoms get to a vet immediately, as these are life threatening conditions. For more information, or to report a pet left in a vehicle, please contact Animal Control at 203-885-4417.”

Car Theft: As summer approaches, we often see an uptick in car theft throughout the State of Connecticut. Please remember to remove valuables, keys and key fobs from your car and lock your car doors!

HRRA Poster Contest Winners: Every year, The Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority sponsors a Recycling Poster Contest for K-12 students in the Region. This year, I had the pleasure of attending the awards ceremony on April 26 to congratulate our talented New Fairfield Regional Winners! We are very proud to announce that Caiden Davidson, a 3rd Grade student in Mrs. Schlosser’s class is this year’s Grand Prize Winner! His artwork will be displayed on 20 HART buses for 6 weeks. Congratulations to all of our Regional Winners: Benjamin Davidson, Mila Caba, Amara Coster, Corina Knapp, and Sara Braun! Thank you to Jane Stagno of Parks and Rec for coordinating the event! You can view the winning posters here: https://hrra.org/annual-billboard-contest/

May is Mental Health Month: A message from Mental Health America: “As humans, our overall health is significantly affected by our natural and built environment: where we are born, live, learn, work, play, and congregate all influence our health. While we often think of these environmental factors as relating largely to our physical health, it’s important to consider the effect of our environment on our mental health and well-being as well. What we know for sure is that there are many factors that contribute to mental well-being, and we all benefit from stable environments, strong communities, and ready access to needed services. During this year’s Mental Health Month, Mental Health America invites you to Look Around, Look Within as we consider every part of our environment and its effect on our mental health and well-being.” For more information, go to www.mhanational.org/May

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, May 4, 2023. Page 3

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What a show the Board of Finance (BoF) put on at their Budget meeting on April 26-27! The purpose of the meeting was to advance the process of putting the two budgets (schools and town) before voters for their decision. The Republican majority Board (4-2) accomplished that, but in a highly controversial way – resuming their effort to make significant cuts to the budgets of the Board of Selectmen and especially the Board of Education. Here are some highlights:

The meeting lasted eight hours, starting at 7:30pm and ending a little after 3:30am. The previous meeting on April 12 lasted until just past 1:00am. Last week’s meeting went on so long that one BoF majority member was caught on tape nodding off and another majority member dropped from the meeting because her device ran out of power. A BoF Alternate member of the majority also dropped off the meeting.
One of the reasons for the length of these meetings was the large number of residents who made public comment. Over 600 people signed onto the Zoom meeting on 4/26-27 and over 400 joined on 4/12. At the 4/26 meeting over 80 people commented, with all but 4 opposing the cuts the Board of Finance majority were proposing. Similarly, 59 people commented on 4/12, again with all but 7 opposing the cuts. Letters to the Board of Finance also showed a similar margin of opposing the cuts proposed by the Board of Finance. If you total up all the comments and emails, 94% favored full funding of the budgets and 6% supported cuts.
First Selectman Pat Del Monaco and Schools Superintendent Ken Craw made presentations showing the impact of the BoF suggested cuts of $300,000 to the town budget and $1,775,000 to the school budget. The cuts to the Town budget centered on cutting $150,000 of paving. The cuts to the BoE budget entailed laying off 24 staff (teachers, paras, administrators) with significant negative impact to class size, freshman sports, STEAM, strings, and other programs. This would result in a 6.65% mill rate increase.
These cuts proposed by the BoF majority followed rejection of a proposal by BoF minority member Cheryl Reedy on April 12 that would cut $585,000 from the BoE budget and $175,000 from the BoS budget. This would have resulted in a 6.96% mill rate increase, which in turn would yield a yearly tax bill roughly $20 more than the 6.65% increase the majority argued for on April 12 for a family living in a home assessed at median value.
After 11:00pm, majority member Kim Hanson introduced an amendment that would reshape the possible cuts to the BoS budget by restoring paving but removing hours from positions that were made fulltime in the last six years and cutting hours or salaries for other positions. This amendment had circulated among members of the majority earlier in the day and they had discussed it among themselves. The minority members and the public had not seen it until its introduction after 11:00pm.
The last-minute amendment proposed by majority Board member Kim Hanson included a flip-flop on the issue of the bond premium. The majority members went from an original position of spreading the almost $3,000,000 in bond premium over all the years of debt service to a position of using $1,300,000 to a position on April 26 of using $2,500,000, the latter number clearly a short-sighted effort to lower the overall tax increase. In doing this, they have created a hole in the budget, which will require increased funding through taxes next year.
After very contentious debate and on a party-line vote, the Board approved a budget proposal that would cut $900,000 from the original Board of Education proposal and $345,000 from the original Board of Selectmen budget. While the Board of Education reductions are roughly half of what the BoF originally demanded, they continue to do damage to an education program that is still rebuilding after COVID.
The BoF recommended budget yields a 5.7% mill rate increase compared to a 6.96% increase in Cheryl Reedy’s proposal of April 12. This would save a family living in a home of median value $90.61 a year in property taxes, while cutting important educational programs. Families in homes with lower assessed values would have less impact. I’m not sure that a majority of residents will see this as much of a bargain.
The BoF did vote by a slim majority to add separate advisory questions to the ballot to allow residents to vote whether the town budget and school budgets are too high or too low. If the budget vote fails, this should be valuable advice to the Board of Finance for any follow-up budgets.

This year is a very tough budget year, with challenges caused by inflation, the last tranche of bonding for the new schools, and a decrease in federal Covid-era subsidies. Higher than usual property tax increases were going to happen no matter the scenario. I am disturbed by the approach and tactics of the Board of Finance in addressing this year’s challenge. The absence of concern by the majority BoF members about the negative impacts of their proposed cuts combined with their total lack of regard for the overwhelming comments by concerned parents, grandparents, and residents opposing the cuts indicate a disposition to cut funding to the schools and town regardless of consequence. This group of majority members ran on a platform of encouraging public participation and listening to residents. That no longer appears to be their priority.

The Board of Selectmen has set a Town Meeting for Wednesday May 10 at 7:00pm at the Senior Center to vote to remove the proposed budgets to a machine vote, which would be held between May 17 and May 31.

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As submitted to be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, April 20, 2023 (but not yet published in the Town Tribune)

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BUDGET STALEMATE?

If the Board of Finance meeting on April 12 is any indication, this year’s budget cycle is going to be long and contentious. It’s entirely possible we will see more than one round of voting on the budget. It’s also possible that we will enter the new fiscal year on July 1 without an officially approved FY23-24 budget, but with tax increases going into effect nonetheless.

This disconcerting state of affairs is because of a stalemate that pits the four Republican majority members of the Board of Finance against the bipartisan majorities of the Board of Education and the Board of Selectmen – and against several hundred parents and concerned citizens who vocally oppose the cuts the Board of Finance is proposing to the school and town budgets.

At the April 12^th meeting, the four majority BoF members requested the Board of Education to prepare a budget that includes a $1.775 million cut to operating expenses. The only place the operating budget can be cut is in staff layoffs – cutting up to 21 teacher and administrator positions and 7 para positions. The result will be larger classes, reduced high school class offerings, elimination of programs and offerings (Gifted and Talented, athletics, arts).

The Board of Finance has also asked the Town to present a budget cutting $300,000 in operating expenses. Because of the small size of town government and its various departments, making such cuts will require reducing services to residents.

Needless to say, parents and concerned citizens are firmly opposed to such large cuts. Over 200-300 residents sat through 4-5 hour meetings for three straight weeks, with dozens expressing their strong opposition to the size of these cuts. A small handful (4-5) of participating residents supported the cuts.

It doesn’t have to be this way. There is no doubt that this year is going to be a tough budget year, regardless of your perspective. Inflation, reduction of federal Covid funding, sharply increased medical costs, and the cumulative effect of bonding done to build two new schools has led to increased budget requirements. There will be significant increases in the mill rate. The question is how best to spread the burden required to bring those increases into the reasonable zone.

Board of Finance minority member Cheryl Reedy laid out a plan that would minimize staffing cuts for both the schools and town, cut the initial mill rate from 13.31 percent to 6.94 percent, and ensure the town remains financially sound. It was quickly shot down by the four majority members in what seemed at times to be a bidding war in a high-stakes poker game. Reedy’s proposal would make use of all the tools the Board of Finance has left at its disposal to decrease mill rate increases, including use of bond premiums and a gradual and reasonable increase to the medical reserve fund. There are built in backstops to make sure that all medical insurance requirements are met.

The BoF majority, on the other hand, specifically stating that the schools budget is unsustainable, chose to focus on an ultra-conservative approach that does not make full use of those tools, but instead focuses on cuts to the operating budgets of the town – and especially the schools – as noted above. Under their proposal, the mill rate increase would be cut from 13.31 percent to 6.65 percent. The BoF majority proposal is lower than Reedy’s proposal by just over a quarter of a point – 0.29. In real world terms, this means that someone owning a home with a median value in New Fairfield would pay $20 less a year – $1.66 a month – under the BoF majority proposal than under Reedy’s proposal.

This makes no sense. How can the Board of Finance expect residents to vote for a budget proposal that would entail laying off large numbers of school and town employees, do significant damage to services residents expect and get only $20 for the median homeowner in return?

I personally do not think residents will accept this “bargain” and that we may be in for several months of contentious debate. The Board of Finance majority is giving no sign that they are open to proposals such as Reedy’s and seems fixated on making significant cuts to the schools budget. The result could be multiple rounds of voting until the stalemate is broken. In the meantime, school employees who are nervous about their future may well decide to look elsewhere.

New Fairfield is a financially sound town with a AAA bond rating – and nothing in Cheryl’s Reedy proposal would undercut that. In the fall we will have two brand new schools as the cornerstone of our community. We need to approve a budget that supports the schools and town – and keep trying until we do.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, April 20, 2023, PAGE 2

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It Doesn’t Need to be This Way

During my first four years in office, I had the privilege of working with a Board of Finance that conducted business in non-partisan, collaborative public meetings. The members recognized that conducting the business of the Town should be transparent, non-partisan, and deliberative. The members recognized that the BOF, BOS and BOE are equal, duly elected partners with different responsibilities. Each Board contributes a piece of the puzzle needed to solve the issues that come before the Town.

During the previous four years, the BOS and BOE were an integral part of the budget discussion – providing recommendations, data, and operating experience to the BOF at every budget meeting. This deliberative process resulted in reasonable budgets that were supported by all three Boards and ultimately were approved by the taxpayers. Unfortunately, the current BOF has not included the BOS and BOE in their deliberations. Until last week’s meeting, four members of the same political party did not deliberate in public at all – their discussions were conducted privately without the scrutiny of the public and the elected members of the BOS and BOE.

Taxpayers have participated in the past three BOF meetings in record numbers with 122 participants on March 22, 485 on March 29 and 467 on April 12. Hundreds of taxpayers have provided public and written comments supporting the BOS and BOE budgets and the resulting tax increase, but all those comments have been ignored by the BOF majority.

At the April 12 meeting, BOF member Cheryl Reedy put forth a budget that resulted in a 6.94% increase over last year’s budget. The BOF majority rejected her plan and proposed an alternative plan yielding a 6.65% increase. The difference in the impact of these two plans is $20 per year on a home assessed at $221,000, the median assessed home value in New Fairfield. Ms. Reedy’s plan uses financial tools available to the BOF to significantly reduce the budget increase without drastic cuts to either the town or school operating budgets. Those strategies include applying bond premiums to spread out the impact of the debt service from the new schools, using current year revenue surpluses to bolster the medical reserve fund and making reasonable reductions to the operating budgets. The alternative plan relies on cutting $1,775,000 from the BOE and $300,000 from the BOS operating budgets. These extreme cuts will change the quality of education and town services in New Fairfield for years to come.

The chart below describes how cuts to the BOE budget would impact the education of our children:

Impact of Staffing Reductions

Town services would also suffer under the BOF plan. The BOS will be forced to reconsider regionalizing the Dispatch Center, reducing popular programs in the Library and Senior Center and forgoing road paving and repair this year.

Recovery from cuts of the magnitude suggested by the BOF would take years, if not decades. We have been down this road before, and four years ago were faced with the results of underfunding maintenance and repair of critical infrastructure – crumbling school buildings and the high cost of replacing them. We have also borne the cost of rebuilding roads that were paved with inferior materials to “save money.” Our BOE has invested in our students’ academic success, including employing coaching and intervention strategies which led New Fairfield to recover from the pandemic more quickly than most districts, nearing pre-pandemic achievement levels. Our students are achieving substantially more growth in both English/Language Arts and Math than most districts. Clearly, now is not the time to slash staffing and programs in our schools.

One must ask why the BOF insists on making these drastic reductions in the operating budgets when there are other options available to them. Meeting after meeting, residents of all political affiliations have come forward to plead with the BOF not to cut the BOE and BOS operating budgets. Why not allow the taxpayers to have their say on a budget reduction that preserves the quality of education and town services? What do they have to lose? If the budget fails, further reductions can be made, and it goes out for another vote. Ironic from three members who campaigned on the slogan “let your voices be heard!”

It really doesn’t have to be this way – there are tools available to the BOF to reduce the budget without significantly impacting the quality of education and Town services in New Fairfield. E-mail the BOF at BOF@newfairfield.org and tell them – LET US VOTE!

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, April 6, 2023, PAGE 2

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Where do we go from here?

After the BOF meeting Wednesday evening, the budget increase stands at 13.21%. None of the elected officials on the BOS, BOE or BOF support a tax increase of 13% – and that is why the BOS and BOE held a joint meeting last Tuesday evening to discuss a path forward. The Boards presented strategies to significantly reduce the budget increase without drastic cuts to either the town or school operating budgets. Those strategies include applying bond premiums to spread out the impact of the debt service from the new schools, using current year revenue surpluses to bolster the medical reserve fund and making reasonable reductions to the operating budgets.

Over 300 people attended the BOF meeting last Wednesday evening, with many speaking in support of the operating budgets. However, the BOF disregarded the voice of the taxpayers, and without any collaboration with the BOS and BOE hinted that they would reduce the BOE budget by $2.5 million and the BOS budget by $500,000. These cuts would change the quality of education and town services in New Fairfield for years to come. The recording of the March 28 Joint meeting and the March 29 BOF meeting can be viewed on the Town website, posted under “News.”

The chart below describes how cuts to the BOE budget would impact the education of our children:

Impact of Staffing Reductions

Town services would also suffer under the BOF plan. Most statutory functions in the Town government (Town Clerk, Tax Collector, Assessor, Health, Building, Zoning, Fire Marshal) are staffed by only 1 – 3 people who earn on average $57,000/year. These Departments account for approximately 10% of the municipal operating budget, or about 2% of the entire budget.

The largest Town departments include Police, Public Works, Dispatch, Finance and the Library, which in total account for 60% of the municipal budget, or 12% of the total budget. Cuts to any of these departments will have a significant impact on the services provided by the Town.

For example, the Police Department includes just enough officers and CT State Troopers to protect our Town and schools 24/7. The Department employs 5 Patrol Officers, 3 School Resource Officers, 6 Troopers and 1 Resident Sergeant. Some have suggested that we could reduce overtime costs in the department, however overtime is necessary to maintain patrol minimums during vacation time and sick time, to provide SRO coverage in CELA and to support special events in Town. To reduce costs in Public Safety, the BOS would have to reconsider regionalizing the Dispatch Center for an annual savings of about $250,000. The move would be against the recommendation of public safety personnel and public sentiment.

Reducing Public Works staffing means reducing hours spent on maintenance of infrastructure – fields, buildings, roads and drainage, and the reduction of services such as Drop Off Center hours, roadside mowing and plowing. The Board would also be forced to reduce funding for road paving and repair, which would result in further deterioration of road surfaces and underlying drainage. The Board would also be driven to reduce funding and staff to provide programs in the library and senior center. The Finance Department is shared with the BOE and is required to maintain staffing levels that ensure separation of duties.

Recovery from cuts of the magnitude suggested by the BOF would take years, if not decades. We have been down this road before, and four years ago were faced with the results of underfunding maintenance and repair of critical infrastructure – crumbling school buildings and the high cost of replacing them. We have also borne the cost of rebuilding roads that were paved with inferior materials to “save money.” Our schools have invested in our students’ academic success, including employing coaching and intervention strategies which led New Fairfield to recover from the pandemic more quickly than most districts, nearing pre-pandemic achievement levels. Our students are achieving substantially more growth in both English/Language Arts and Math than most districts. Clearly, now is not the time to slash staffing and programs in our schools.

Please watch the recordings of the BOS/BOE Joint meeting and the March 29 BOF meeting found on the Town website, www.newfairfield.org and plan to attend the next BOF meeting on Wednesday, April 12 via ZOOM. You can send your comments to the BOF at BOF@newfairfield.org.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, March 30, 2023, PAGE 2

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As many of you have heard, the proposed budget increase currently stands at 13.15% over last year. How did we get there? The following chart shows the relationship between the increases in the BOS budget, the BOE budget, medical insurance fund and debt service:

Budget Increase 2023_2024

The Medical Insurance Fund and Debt Service make up approximately 23% of the total budget, but as you can see from the chart above, account for 60% of the increase in the budget this year. The Town of New Fairfield is self- insured and therefore, we maintain a Medical Insurance Fund to pay Town and BOE employees’ medical claims. Self-insurance is more cost effective for the Town than purchasing medical insurance from a third party and is funded by contributions from both taxpayers and employees. There are two components to this year’s increase in the Town’s contribution to the Medical Insurance Fund. Last year, in an effort to reduce the mill rate increase, the BOF made the decision to fund less than the total projected medical claims. At the same time, we experienced a spike in medical claims, resulting in a significant reduction in our medical reserve this year. Without a robust reserve fund, the BOF must fully fund projected medical claims, resulting in the roughly $2 million increase in that line.

As expected, debt service will also increase this year, as the Town is issuing the final tranche of $12 million of bonding for the new schools. The BOF had an opportunity to significantly reduce the burden of this bond issuance but declined to make the necessary changes to debt policy to realize the savings. The Town may apply remaining bond premiums to spread the impact of the debt more evenly over the next two or three years until the debt service begins to decline. Although the total amount of debt service paid over those years remains the same, use of premium eases the impact on the taxpayer by mitigating a large spike in the mill rate. There is some good news about school bonding – due to lower-than-expected interest rates on the first $68 million of bonding, the Town will pay roughly $15 million less in interest over the life of the bonds compared to what was projected at the time of referendum.

In addition to the pressures from the medical fund and debt service, the BOS is facing increases in the cost of goods and services due to inflation and a significant increase in the cost of paramedic services. Priorities in next year’s municipal budget include accommodations for early voting, funding paramedic services, and additional funding for road repair. The Town budget also contains funding for the permanent School Resource Officer position at CELA, approved by voters just before the beginning of the school year. At the same time, voters approved staffing for increased coverage in the Dispatch Center. To mitigate the impact of these operational needs and the increase in debt service, the BOS reduced proposed capital spending in the budget by approximately $1 million, removing all but immediate capital needs. Dr. Craw, Superintendent of Schools, has explained that most of the increases in the BOE budget result from fixed costs in salary and benefits with the balance coming from increases in fixed costs such as transportation, special education and utilities.

As the BOF considers reducing the budget, please keep in mind that a 1% reduction in the budget equates to a cut of approximately $550,000. Therefore, to reduce the budget increase to about 7%, $3.3 million would have to be cut from the proposed budget. Cuts of this magnitude will result in a reduction of staff and services in both the town and schools. For example, the BOE has projected that for every $500,000 of budget cuts in the education budget, 6 certified staff and 2 non-certified staff positions will need to be eliminated. These staff reductions will result in increased class sizes, a reduction in programs such as gifted, athletics and arts programs, a reduction of course offerings in the High School and a reduction in services for students. Reductions in the Town budget will force the BOS to consider a reduction in Town services, including regionalizing the Dispatch Center, reducing funds to pave roads and reducing programs and hours of operation in the library and senior center. Rather than make these dramatic cuts to Town and school services, both the BOE and BOS are urging the BOF to take steps to reduce the impact of the increases in debt service and the medical insurance fund before making destructive reductions in the operating budgets.

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Khris 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, March 16, 2023, PAGE 3

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Budget season has begun – our annual exercise of preparing a budget for the schools and the town for a vote, usually in May. During March and April, the Boards of Finance, Selectmen, and Education make the difficult decisions required to put a reasonable budget in front of voters. This is the toughest budget year of the five I’ve been through as your Selectman.

Arriving at a budget to be presented to voters is a lengthy process. It starts with the submission of separate budgets by the Board of Education and Board of Selectmen to the Board of Finance. The Board of Finance adds in those parts of the Budget it is responsible for – the costs of medical insurance for town and school employees and debt service. The process starts with high numbers and then gets whittled down to numbers that may be deemed more acceptable to voters.

This year, the starting point for discussion is higher than it’s been in my memory; when you add all the numbers together, it’s a 13% increase. This preliminary number is the result of unique circumstances:

Inflation has hit town and school services, just as it has every sector;
The last round of bonding takes place later this month and will impact next year’s budget by about $3,000,000;
The cost of ambulance service has increased approximately $300,000, with no remedy;
Medical costs are rising everywhere. Early estimates for medical costs indicate increases of $2,000,000;
The Schools have made significant progress in dealing with the COVID educational deficit, but need to continue to fund approximately 10 positions from town funds rather than federal funds that are no longer available to continue that progress;
The Town has added resources to the 911 call center and an SRO to improve public safety.

None of these issues is frivolous. The Board of Finance, which has four Republican members and two Democratic members, has the tough assignment of working in a meaningful way on the parts of the budget they control and with the Boards of Education and Selectmen to bring the proposed percent increase down in a way that does not do damage to the progress our schools have made in improving student performance and does not harm municipal services. One important tool they have is to address debt service in the final round of bonding to be done this month.

Unfortunately, on a party-line vote, the majority of the Board of Finance twice declined to take advantage of an opportunity that would have saved New Fairfield taxpayers almost 1% on our tax bills next year. A proposal to reschedule the debt the town owes from school bonding would have removed $400,000 in payments from the coming fiscal year, spreading the rescheduled payments out over the next 18 years. While the rescheduling would have increased overall payments, such rescheduling would add about $30,000 a year to debt repayments for about 18 years. This additional $30,000 a year represents less than .05% of a $60 million budget and would have virtually no impact on the mill rate increase in those years. This increase would have been less than $5.50 per residential property over 18 years.

The graph below shows both the short-term impact as well as the longer-term impact. The applicable analogy is a 15-year mortgage versus a 30-year mortgage – you pay a bit more in interest payments, but extending the payment schedule makes the payments affordable.

Debt Restructuring 2023 (721.544)

From the line of questioning in the most recent Board of Finance sessions, it appears that the majority of the Board of Finance are headed in the direction of cutting operating expenses of the school and town budgets. Both budgets have already been pared back substantially. Cutting the school’s operating budget would mean laying off teachers who have played a key role in improving the academic performance of our kids – and would increase class size. Cutting the town’s operating budget would probably mean laying off the School Resource Officers that have been added in the past few years and that have widespread support and returning staffing at the 911 call center to the point that may impact call response time.

I believe the Board of Finance should look first at other tools at their disposal. I don’t believe the Board of Finance can find enough cuts to the operating budgets of the town and schools to bring the possible tax increase down to reasonable levels without doing serious damage to our kids’ education and our town services. This may be the year to consider pulling some funding out the Rainy Day Fund to help with funding for medical insurance costs. The Rainy Day Fund is well-funded at $11.5M – and there is precedent for using the Rainy Day Fund to help with budget issues posed by increased medical costs. Although rare, it was last done by First Selectman John Hodge in 2009. I believe our particular circumstances this year warrant using this approach.

This fall, we will open our second new school in a year’s time. Both schools will come in on schedule and within the budget – a tribute to the excellent management by the Permanent Building Committee. As a community we voted for two new schools in 2019, recognizing that it would result in some increase in taxes. We kept our promise to keep increases as low as possible. Through good management by the Boards of Education, Selectmen, and Finance, your tax increases have been low despite the school bonding. Increases for the past three years were: 0.99% (20-21 – taking into account Grand List revaluation), 2.98% (21-22), and 3.11% (22-23). Because of the extraordinary circumstances of this past year and this coming year, our tax increase this coming year is going to be higher than past years. We are relying on the Board of Finance to use all of the tools at its disposal, avoid politics, and arrive at a sound budget proposal to put in front of voters.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, March 2, 2023, PAGE 2

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EARTN DAY CELEBRATION

Save the date! On April 22^nd, we will be hosting New Fairfield’s first Earth Day celebration. The day will begin with neighborhood trash collection. The town will provide trash bags and collect full bags for disposal beginning at noon. The celebration will include food trucks, live music, vendors and booths with information about environmentally friendly services, including recycling, solar energy and bee keeping. The Candlewood Valley Regional Land Trust will offer guided hikes at Komlo Preserve, and the Library and Senior Center will host presentations, crafts and activities related to environmental topics. Coupons to local businesses will also be available. Keep watching the Town Tribune and the Town Facebook Page, Newsletter, and website for more details.

TAX COLLECTOR POSITION

After 37 years of service in the New Fairfield Tax Office, 29 as Tax Collector, Kerrie Greening is retiring. Kerrie brings a wealth of knowledge to the position, and she is always there to answer any question or concern that a taxpayer may have. We thank Kerrie for her many years of service to our Town and wish her the very best in her retirement. She will be sorely missed!

In light of Kerrie’s retirement, the BOS will be appointing an Interim Tax Collector to serve until the November election. The appointee must have experience in accounting or bookkeeping, have supervisory experience, and be willing to consider running to fill the position permanently in November of this year. Although Tax Collectors are elected in New Fairfield, the job has no political component, and candidates historically have been cross endorsed by both parties based on their knowledge and experience.

The position requires certification over the course of three years under the C.C.M.C. (Certified Connecticut Municipal Collector) program, administered by the CCMC Committee, appointed by the state Office of Policy and Management. Required coursework includes a four – course program; an exam for each course; a comprehensive final examination; and an experience requirement. The courses given include two courses in tax collection law, a course in municipal finance, and a course in Connecticut government, supervision and public relations. Tax collectors who achieve their CCMC designation must re-certify every five years by showing they earned at least fifty hours of continuing education credit at courses approved by the CCMC committee.

If you have questions about the position, please contact the Tax Collector at kgreening@newfairfield.org. If you are interested in being considered for the position of Tax Collector, please send a “Letter of Intent” outlining your qualifications and experience to pdelmonaco@newfairfield.org, khall@newfairfield.org and lbeninson@newfairfield.org.

POLICE BOAT BONDING LEGISLATION

Many thanks to our State legislative delegation for drafting legislation to provide state bond funding for a police boat for New Fairfield Police. New Fairfield has the most shoreline of the five towns bordering the Lake, and Blueberry, Sand and Pine Islands fall within our borders. Over the past several years, the number of boats on Candlewood Lake and visitors to the islands has increased substantially, creating challenges for CLA, DEEP and NFPD. At the same time, the number of DEEP EnCon police has decreased, leaving Western CT, and Candlewood Lake, with limited law enforcement coverage. Providing New Fairfield Police with access to the Lake will enhance public safety for all who enjoy the Lake during the summer months.

The CLA Marine Patrol is a tremendous asset to all five towns bordering Candlewood Lake. DEEP has delegated the authority to enforce boating laws to CLA, addressing the primary public safety concern on the Lake. In recent years, however, additional public safety concerns have arisen from the increase in the number of boats and people on the water and islands. For example, the islands are not equipped with sanitary facilities, and the resulting unsanitary conditions have resulted in closures by order of the Health Director. Further, unreasonably loud noise late into the night form large crowds gathering on the islands has plagued our residents who live close to the water. And finally, last summer, our police department was called upon to investigate a drowning that occurred in water within New Fairfield’s border without the ability to readily access the water.

Therefore, after discussion with our Resident Sergeant, we agreed that it is prudent to obtain a police boat for the NFPD to provide limited police patrols on the Lake at the busiest times during the summer and to provide immediate police access to the Lake in times of emergency. There is no funding for a boat in next year’s budget, and therefore no impact on taxpayers to acquire a boat. Officers who serve as School Resource Officers come back into patrol during the summer, allowing the department to accommodate these patrols with existing staff. The boat will be maintained by existing staff and stored on Town property. Our officers will work cooperatively with the other law enforcement agencies on the Lake to ensure the safety of all who wish to enjoy Candlewood Lake.

ANNUAL BUDGET HEARING

On Saturday, March 4, The Board of Selectmen (BOS) and the Board of Education will present the municipal and education budgets for the 2023-2024 fiscal year to the Board of Finance (BOF). The Board of Finance will then, over the following month, hold weekly meetings to discuss, ask questions, make adjustments and ultimately approve a budget to send to the taxpayers for approval. The BOS budget specifies how town revenues will be expended to provide services to residents. The hearing will begin at 9:00 AM in the Community Room located at the Senior Center.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, February 23, 2023, PAGE 2

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POLICE BOAT BONDING LEGISLATION

Therefore, after discussion with our Resident Sergeant, we agreed that it is prudent to obtain a police boat for the NFPD to provide limited police patrols on the Lake at the busiest times during the summer and to provide immediate police access to the Lake in times of emergency. Officers who serve as School Resource Officers come back into patrol during the summer, allowing the department to accommodate these patrols with existing staff. Our officers will work cooperatively with the other law enforcement agencies on the Lake to ensure the safety of all who wish to enjoy Candlewood Lake.

BUS LOT UPDATE

Last week, I provided an update on the bus lot location and appeal to the Board of Finance. To date, the Town has spent close to $17,000 in legal fees on the bus lot appeal, and we expect to spend between $40,000 and $60,000 in total. Initially, we thought the costs would be on the lower side of the estimate, however the Zoning Commission is not willing to participate in settlement discussions or mediation with the Permanent Building Committee, driving legal costs higher. However, when we made the decision to appeal the Commission’s denial, it was due to the lack of affordable alternatives to the Consolidated site. The only feasible alternative is located on the High School property behind the playground and adjacent to Marty Morgan Field. This alternative would cost $1 million more than the Consolidated site, with the cost falling to the taxpayers as the additional cost is not provided for in the project budget. This cost will continue to escalate if the project is delayed further. In comparison, the much lower cost of legal fees will be absorbed by current budgets.

NEW FAIRFIELD BROADBAND STUDY

New Fairfield is working with the Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCoG) to study the feasibility of a town-owned broadband fiber optic network for improved access by both residents and businesses to the internet. While one of our internet providers has announced its intention to provide a fiber offering, competition may be useful to ensure prices and services stay competitive in the future.

If the project moves forward, it will be built on the following principles:

Participation will be on a voluntary, opt-in basis.
Taxes would not be increased to fund the project. The ongoing operation of the network will be self-sustaining and not dependent on any kind of subsidy from the Town.

In undertaking this study, our goals are to:

Lower the cost of existing internet access by 30% for residents and businesses.
Significantly increase the speed and reliability of internet access.
Increase competition and give residents multiple options for Internet Service Providers on demand in real time.
Build a state-of-the-art network that will improve economic development and foster innovation.

We need your input to determine whether New Fairfield residents want town-owned fiber optic broadband service. Please take the New Fairfield Broadband Survey, which should take less than 5 minutes. We also need residents to upload their current internet bills to help us determine whether a new offering will be competitive. The following link provides you with more information and will take you to the survey and a place to upload your bills (with ability to mask private information): https://www.newfairfieldfiber.com 270 households have responded so far, but we would like to get that number over 300!

ARPA SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS

Funds are still available! The New Fairfield ARPA Small Business Assistance Program was established to provide limited, one-time direct financial assistance to eligible New Fairfield small businesses that employ 25 or fewer employees and that have been adversely impacted by the COVID pandemic. The Program is funded through American Rescue Plan Act funds and is administered by the Town of New Fairfield. Grants are intended to aid eligible New Fairfield businesses that have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and have a need for funding that will help them become stronger in the current marketplace.

The application is accessible by going to the Town website, www.newfairfield.org and clicking on the banner at the top of the home page.

SMALL CITIES GRANT PROGRAM

The Town of New Fairfield has funding available to assist income eligible residential property owners for repairs to existing residential properties. Funds can be used to perform a variety of repairs and upgrades including but not limited to code violations, increased energy efficiency and accessibility improvements and other general rehabilitation and improvements as approved by the Town. Eligible items include heating updates, plumbing repairs, electrical updates, roof replacement weatherization, such as insulation, window replacement and siding. Well and water line connections and septic and sewer connections are also eligible.

Funding is offered to owner-occupied households as a 0% interest, deferred payment loan. Deferred payment loans accrue no interest and payment is not due until there is a transfer of title by means of sale, transfer of title, re-finance, owners’ demise or if the property is no longer their principal place of residency. Applicants are eligible for participation based upon Federal income limits.

Applications are available from the First Selectman’s office, Monday through Thursday from 8:30am-5:00pm and Friday from 8:30am–12:00pm, online at NewFairfield.org under “Our Town”, or by calling 203-312-5600. Applications are accepted and processed on a first come first serve basis, pending the availability of funds.

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Khris 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, February 16, 2023, PAGE 3

Every February, the Board of Selectmen make tough decisions on what kind of municipal budget to submit to the Board of Finance for their review, which starts the first Saturday in March. The Board of Education goes through a complimentary process for school expenses. Expenses to run the town generally account for about 22 percent of the total budget, with education expenses taking the remaining 78 percent.

Your property taxes will be decided based on the deliberations of the Boards of Finance, Selectmen, and Education over the next 2-3 months. Among the factors that will be considered on the municipal side of the ledger are the capital needs of the town to maintain and improve infrastructure (roads, bridges, plow trucks, police cars, etc.) and the ongoing people costs of providing the services we as residents receive.

As a small town, New Fairfield provides fewer municipal services than larger municipalities. The services the Town does provide are delivered by just under 100 part- and full-time employees (not counting the approximate 70 seasonal workers with Parks and Rec and 100 election workers who play a role in our elections as required). This number includes 10 elected officials, 2 of whom are full-time employees. Of this approximate 100 employees, 53 are union members, whose salaries are governed by bargained agreements.

Town employees provide the services you as residents use – or can use — regularly. Among other things, they:

Provide police (including School Resource Officers), fire safety, emergency dispatch services and emergency planning services
Plow and pave our roads, operate the Drop-Off Center, and maintain town properties (buildings, fields, Town Park)
Provide tax, financial and treasury services to safeguard, collect and disburse our financial resources efficiently and fairly
Staff the Library and Senior Center and coordinate all their popular programs
Provide the recreational programs – team sports, summer camps, seasonal events such as the Holiday Light parade, the boat parade, Sip ‘N Stroll, Halloween event, etc. – that are attended by a large number of Town residents
Register voters, staff our elections and ensure their integrity
Provide land use and building services – zoning, building inspections, wetlands conservation
Staff social services for those in need
Staff animal control services
Provide services to protect public health, such as vaccination clinics, septic inspections, restaurant inspections, etc.
Administer town documents, such as real estate records and licenses.

All of these services are either legally required to run a town or are in great demand by residents who want their roads maintained, a library to retreat to for quiet or programs, a senior center to gather in, activities for kids, a chance to get together with other New Fairfielders, etc. I have been impressed by our employees and know how hard they work for the Town.

Since November 2017, when I first took on the responsibilities of being your Selectmen, we have added a small handful of employees to make sure services are provided as required. This includes an additional Public Works employee to keep up with plowing, road construction, and maintenance demands, an animal control officer (which provides better service and saves us money over the previous regional approach), School Resource Officers (including a new one last year) to address school safety, and more staffing last year for the emergency dispatch center to make sure calls are answered on a timely basis. All of these additions were done with the approval of the Board of Finance and approved by voters.

Town employees draw compensation and are provided with health insurance, if they are considered fulltime. Like employees in every sector of the economy, they face the same pressures of inflation that you and I face. Union contracts with many of these employees expire later this year and will have to be negotiated. Additionally, health insurance costs for employees everywhere, including New Fairifeld’s town and school employees, are expected to rise significantly.

All Town employees are overseen by First Selectman Pat DelMonaco. One of the many hats she wears is making sure personnel issues – pay, performance, disputes, etc. – are handled professionally.

All of this is to say: the next two months leading up to a vote on the town budget in May are likely to be a rough ride. Please keep in mind the important services Town employees provide to you every day.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, February 2, 2023, PAGE 2

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SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS

The Economic Development Commission has finalized the application and review process for the Small Business Assistance Program approved at referendum for ARPA funding. I have included information about the program provided by the EDC below. We expect the application to become active online on or about February 1. When active, the application will be accessible by going to the Town website, www.newfairfield.org and clicking on the banner at the top of the home page.

The New Fairfield ARPA Small Business Assistance Program was established to provide limited, one-time direct financial assistance to eligible New Fairfield small businesses that employ 25 or fewer employees and that have been adversely impacted by the COVID pandemic. The Program is funded through American Rescue Plan Act funds and is administered by the Town of New Fairfield. Grants are intended to aid eligible New Fairfield businesses that have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and have a need for funding that will help them become stronger in the current marketplace.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

To be eligible for assistance under this program, applicant must be a New Fairfield based business that is physically located and registered within the Town of New Fairfield and employs twenty-five or fewer employees as of January 1,
The business must currently be in and have been in operation as of January 1, 2019.
Applicant must be in good standing and current on its federal, state and local tax obligations and have no outstanding liens or judgements.
Applicant must be compliant with the Connecticut Department of Labor Office of Unemployment Assistance and all applicable state and federal employment laws and regulations, including but not limited to minimum wage, unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation and child
The business must be able to demonstrate satisfactorily that it has been negatively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and that the funding will enable the business to continue to operate and become stronger. The business must present a reasonable likelihood for long term viability.
The business must have a clear and specific use for the grant money and the grant money can only be used toward future
Applicant must self-certify the eligibility requirements on the application.

HOW MUCH CAN I APPLY FOR?

Eligible business may apply for grants of up to $5000. Funding is limited and it is anticipated that requests for assistance will be greater than funding on hand. Not all businesses approved for participation will receive the maximum amount. The amount will be based upon the documented need of the business and available resources.

Business must demonstrate economic hardship and demonstrate that the operating funds are necessary and sufficient, when combined with any other sources, to sustain the business.

WHAT IS THE APPROVAL PROCESS?

All applicants will be reviewed by a sub-committee of the New Fairfield Economic Development Commission, an authorized development agency of the Town of New Fairfield. Their recommendations will be forwarded to the Board of Selectmen for final approval. Program staff will make every effort to ensure timely review of all applications received.

In addition to program requirements, award will be based on several factors including: the continued viability of the business enterprise, the degree to which the business has been impacted by the pandemic and proposed use of the funds. Some examples of use of funds include, but are not limited to : payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent, utilities, operational expenses, worker protection expenditures, costs associated with health protection measures, workforce training and recruitment, marketing costs.

The Sub-Committee will also consider to the extent to which the business has received other assistance to date and its access to other funding sources. Upon approval, a formal agreement between the assisted business and the Town of New Fairfield will be executed. We look forward to working with you!

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Khris 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, January 19, 2023, PAGE 3

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GOT FUEL OIL? You may have expensive issues you haven’t thought about.

When I moved into my current home 25 years ago, one of the first things I did was take the fuel oil tank out of the ground and install one in a covered area next to my home. It wasn’t inexpensive to do so, but as a former environmental manager, I was aware of damage the Leaking Underground Storage Tanks (the inaptly named LUSTs) could do to the environment and the potential liability if a leak went undetected for a while. I thought I had solved the problem of potential damage and liability.

Turns out I didn’t, as the recent experience of three New Fairfield fuel oil users demonstrate.

All three users have above ground tanks that leaked and caused damage that had to be cleaned up — and some of them face potential fines.

The first tank owner had an above ground outdoor tank that had a leak that went undetected for some time contaminating soil on a property close to Candlewood Lake. The leak was only discovered because the tank emptied. The area had to be dug up to a fair depth with new soil placed and monitoring. In this case, all contamination was properly disposed of, but the cost of the remediation was in the six figures. A new double-walled state of the art outside tank was installed.

The second fuel oil tank incident involved a tank in the basement that had been in place for a number of years. The owner noticed a small leak, tapped on the side of the tank, and it ruptured, spilling oil into the basement. The owner cleaned up the oil from the basement, got it outside, and put it on his driveway. The property is close to and uphill from Putnam Lake. Nature took its course and their oil was detected in a settling pond that feeds into Putnam Lake. Besides the cost of cleanup, the owner is facing fines for improper disposal of a regulated substance.

The third fuel oil tank incident involves an organization. Fuel oil was detected in a room next to the storage area with the above ground tank. The people involved cleaned up the oil residue and put it in a dumpster, where it was hauled away by the waste disposal company without any extra precautions. When the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection was called a few days later, the DEEP investigator noted the potential of a $3000 fine for late notification of the spill and another potential fine of $5500 for improper disposal. The leaked oil entered the septic system and penetrated walls, making for a potentially costly cleanup.

There are several takeaways from these incidents. The first is that you should call DEEP the moment you discover a leak. Do not wait to try to figure it out yourself. Try to contain the spill, but do not attempt to clean it up yourself. Contact information for DEEP’s Emergency Response Unit, 860-424-3338 or toll free 1-866-DEP-SPIL (1-866-337-7745), 24 hours/day. Should these numbers become unavailable for any reason, call 860-424-3333.

Additionally, if your tank is over 15 years old, regardless of whether it is inside or outside, it – and the connections to the boiler or furnace — should be looked at on a regular basis by a professional. It may need to be replaced. The life expectancy of a fuel oil tank is 15-20 years, although some last longer with proper maintenance. Outdoor tanks are especially vulnerable. Some regulators recommend that tanks be replaced if they are over 15 years old. Newer double-walled tanks likely last longer.

Lastly, I have heard that there is fairly inexpensive insurance that covers oil tank leaks. It may be useful to look into that as well.

Fuel oil spills are serious. They threaten groundwater, drinking water, recreational resources, and wildlife. They are costly in terms of cleanup and fines. With Connecticut and a good part of New England relying on fuel oil for winter heating, it behooves all of us to do what we can to prevent spills.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, January 19, 2023, PAGE 2

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SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

New Fairfield Parks and Recreation is hiring for Summer 2023!

Lifeguards Wanted! Are you interested in working at the Town Park/beach this summer and currently hold a Lifeguard with waterfront Skills certification? We are looking for lifeguards to join our team at the town beach! If you are 16 years or older and interested in training for a lifeguard position- please contact the Parks and Rec office at 203-312-5633 for more information.

Outdoor Movie Technicians Wanted! Are you interested in running outdoor movies this summer? We are looking for a technical coordinator and assistants to show outdoor community movies- please call Parks and Rec for more information.

Camp Counselors Wanted! Are you interested in becoming a camp counselor this summer? If you are 16 years or older at the time camp begins and enjoy working with children — you are eligible to apply!

ALL APPLICATIONS are on-line through January 27^th. Please visit www.newfairfield.org , Municipal Departments, Human Resources, Employment Opportunities to apply.

DEEP is also currently recruiting Seasonal EnCon Rangers to work at Squantz Pond State Park and the Squantz Cove Boat Launch. The job posting can be found at CT.gov by searching forRecruitment #221028-3491VR-001. Applicants must be 21+ and pass an extensive training program.

BUDGET PROCESS

The 2023-2024 municipal budget process has begun. On January 9, The BOS began a series of seven public budget workshops that will continue over the course of the next two weeks. The Board will use these workshops to gather information, discuss department requests and compile the municipal budget. Department Heads use prior years’ experience, professional knowledge and upcoming projects to estimate funding required for their department in the next year.

The municipal budget determines how the town distributes tax dollars to fund the services provided to residents. Services such as the police department, fire department, emergency medical response, road repair and paving, maintenance of town buildings and parks, social services, senior center programs and the public library are funded by the municipal budget. The budget also provides funding for regional services such as HART Transit and the Candlewood Lake Authority.

On Saturday, March 4, the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Education will present the municipal and education budgets for the 2023-2024 fiscal year to the Board of Finance. The Board of Finance will then, over the following month, hold weekly meetings to discuss, ask questions, adjust and ultimately approve a budget to send to the taxpayers for approval. I will provide updates as the process progresses.

BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES

As mentioned in my column last week, there are currently vacancies on the Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Economic Development Commission, Ball Pond Advisory Committee, Commission on the Aging and Wetlands Commission. Boards and Commissions play a critical role in our Town Meeting form of government, and each is staffed by residents who volunteer their time. While some Boards and Commissions are elected, most have members who are appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Some elected Boards also have vacancies to be temporarily filled by the Board of Selectmen. If you are interested in serving on any of the Boards that currently have vacancies, please send a letter of interest and resume to the Selectmen’s Office at jgreen@newfairfield.org

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, January 12, 2023, PAGE 2

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GRANT FUNDING

Happy New Year – I wish you all health and happiness in 2023! As we begin the New Year, I’m pleased to announce that New Fairfield has received two grants benefiting our police, fire and communications departments. New Fairfield has been awarded a $2.1 million Congressionally Directed Spending Grant through Congresswoman Jahana Hayes to update our aging Emergency Radio Communications System. This funding will allow New Fairfield to upgrade its emergency communications infrastructure to current standards, including 3 radio antenna sites, 116 portable radios, and 72 mobile radios. Our project is one of 15 community projects sponsored by Congresswoman Hayes, and I offer many thanks to her and to her staff for including this project in the federal appropriations bill. I would also like to thank our Communications Advisory Committee for their technical assistance, and I look forward to working with them to complete this project. The New Fairfield Community Foundation has also awarded the Town a $250,000 grant toward the purchase of a dispatch console to replace our existing console which has reached end of life. Many thanks to Dana Welles and the New Fairfield Community Foundation for their efforts to secure this grant supporting Public Safety in New Fairfield.

BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES

There are currently vacancies on the Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Economic Development Commission, Ball Pond Advisory Committee, Commission on the Aging and Wetlands Commission. Boards and Commissions play a critical role in our Town Meeting form of government, and each is staffed by residents who volunteer their time. While some Boards and Commissions are elected, most have members who are appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Some elected Boards also have vacancies to be temporarily filled by the Board of Selectmen. If you are interested in serving on any of the Boards that currently have vacancies, please send a letter of interest and resume to the Selectmen’s Office at jgreen@newfairfield.org A brief summary of the roles of the Boards and Commissions seeking members follows.

The Zoning Commission is responsible for regulating the use of land and buildings under the municipality’s zoning regulations. If designated by the regulations, they also issue special permits and exceptions.

The Zoning Board of Appeals The ZBA’s primary mission is to consider and, when justified, grant relief from zoning regulations to properties burdened by a hardship. The Board also hears appeals of orders issued by the Zoning Enforcement Officer.

The Ball Pond Advisory Committee closely monitors the water quality and living community comprising Ball Pond, applying best lake management practices, and encouraging stewardship by the lake community to ensure the health of the lake for current and future generations, as well as for the wildlife that relies upon it.

The mission of the New Fairfield Economic Development Commission is to attract, promote, retain and engage business in the town while keeping in line with the town’s historic character, small town charm, quality of life and environment. The Commission will gather information from local business owners, commercial property owners, residents and developers with the goal of making recommendations and actionable plans for the Board of Selectmen.

The Commission on the Aging considers the conditions and needs of elderly persons in the Community in relation to housing, economic, employment, health, recreational, and other matters. It shall analyze the services for the aged provided by the Community, both public and private agencies, and shall make recommendations to the Chief Executive and the “Municipal Governing Body” regarding the development and integration of public and private agencies, in cooperation with State and other services to the extent possible.

The New Fairfield Inland Wetlands/Conservation Commission is charged with protecting and preserving wetlands and watercourses in the Town of New Fairfield from random, unnecessary, undesirable and unregulated uses, disturbance or destruction. The primary purpose of this Commission is to minimize disturbances and maintain and improve water quality.

More information about New Fairfield Boards and Commissions can be found on the Town website under the “Our Town” tab.

WINTER PROGRAMS

The holidays are over, the weather is gloomy – are you looking for something fun to do? The Parks and Rec Department, New Fairfield Library and New Fairfield Senior Center have fun programs and activities for all ages!

Be sure to check the Park and Rec website and Facebook page for new up- coming programs! Snowman Winter Crafts, Golf Quest Juniors and Code Wiz Virtual Classes are among the after-school programs offered this month. For adults, check out the Tai Chi and Yoga programs. Follow New Fairfield Parks and Recreation CT on Facebook for details, visit parksandrec.newfairfield.org or call 203-312-5633.

January is the perfect time to get involved at the New Fairfield Senior Center! This month’s activities include Yoga, Stitch by Stitch Quilting, Zumba, Mah Jongg, Bodies in Motion, Piano Lessons, French and Spanish classes, Drawing, Tai Chi, Cards n Games and many more! For more details visit the Senior Center or the website at www.newfairfieldseniorcenter.com.

Check out the January programs in the Adult Library! Check out the “Art of Murder” Murder Board Mystery: Part One will be held from January 9 through February 4. A 750-piece murder board puzzle will be available in the library for anyone to stop in and help to complete. Every time you come in to work on the puzzle, you will be entered to win a $25 restaurant gift card! Open to adults, no registration required. Part Two will be held on February 4 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM. All registered detectives will gather at the “crime scene” to use the completed puzzle and other evidence to solve our murder mystery. All detectives will be entered to win a $25 restaurant gift card, to be drawn at the conclusion of our investigation! There are also Virtual Author Talks, Craft and Chat and Adult Book Club to keep you busy!

The Children’s Library will be offering Storytimes, Crafts, Toe-Tapping Tots and Music. (Just a reminder – the library will be closed on January 16 in observation of MLK Day.) Details can be found on the website at newfairfield.org

Stay tuned for more information on other New Fairfield events.

Paid for by New Fairfield Democratic Town Committee – John McCartney, Treasurer

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

To be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, August 24, 2023, PAGE 5

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THIS AND THAT

With the summer drawing to a close and people starting to return to Town from vacation, I thought I’d review a few things that are underway.

I had a great summer, with multiple visits from grandkids and other family. I hope you did too.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, August 3, 2023, PAGE 2

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Hurricane Preparedness

Water -one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for
drinking and sanitation
Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Fuel for generator and cars and
Supplies as needed for children and/or seniors.

You may also consider:

Prescription medications
Non-prescription medications, such as pain relievers and allergy
medication,
Glasses and contact lens solution and
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes.
Pet food and extra water for your pet

The National Weather Service also recommends having a family emergency plan which includes:

a plan for receiving emergency alerts and warnings,
a shelter plan should you be displaced by the storm,
a family communication plan,
plans to address medical needs, prescription medications and equipment, and accommodations for pets.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Summer Concert Series: Split Decision will perform on Memorial Field on Thursday, August 10, followed by Not Sorry Band on August 24. Concerts begin at 6:30.

Outdoor Movies: Parks and Recreation will present “The Rise of Gru” on Memorial Field beginning at dusk on Friday, August 11.

New Fairfield Day will be held on Saturday, September 9 at Memorial Field – more to come!

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

To be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, July 20, 2023, PAGE TBD

‘* * * * *

The third budget before voters this coming Saturday is a clear improvement. It

restored $195,000 the BoF previously cut from Education and the $100,000 cut from police overtime and
provided an additional $7100 to the Board of Education’s capital fund, a small down payment on replacing an aging oil tank.

This still leaves significant cuts of $500,000 to the original BoE budget and $345,000 to the Town budget from the original proposals. These cuts will hurt, but it is time to move forward.

The proposed budget is also an improvement over the previous two versions by

reducing the contribution to the medical fund, as recommended by the town’s Finance Director and our medical consultant,
reducing the use of the bond premium by $400,000, thereby eliminating the hole in next year’s budget that would have required a significant tax increase to cover, and
making use of unexpected revenue from the State of $241,000.

It’s important to keep in mind how we got here. A number of factors contributed to this year’s larger than normal tax increase. We:

built two beautiful new schools – and are opening them on time and within the budget. For the first time this year, the cost of bonding for our schools is having a significant impact on taxes;
have come through an inflationary period with cost of living increases well above 7% — and above the proposed increase to be voted on July 22. Schools and local government are not immune to cost increases due to inflation;
are paying more than $300,000 additional this fiscal year to sustain 24×7 ambulance service;
have a full complement of school resource officers at all of our schools;
are still dealing with the overhang of COVID on student performance, necessitating sustained focus and resources in our schools.

For the first time since this year’s budget cycle began in March, members of all three Boards have agreed on a budget to be presented to voters. I support the proposal and will vote “Yes.”

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 22, 2023, PAGE 2

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Selectman’s Update

Restored $195,900 to the BOE operating budget, resulting in a net reduction of $500,000,
Added $7,100 to the BOE capital budget to address an aging underground oil tank,
Restored $100,000 to the police overtime budget to ensure coverage for CELA SRO and mandatory minimums on patrol,
Reduced the $50,000 added to FD Apparatus fund on 5/31 by $25,000,
Reduced contribution to medical fund by $150,000 to reflect the recommendation of the Town’s insurance consultant,
Reduced the use of bond premium by $400,000 to avoid a budgetary “hole” in the following year’s budget, and
Added $241,186 in unexpected increased revenue from the State.

Have fun!

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 22, 2023, PAGE 2

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Selectman’s Update

The proposed budget differs from the previous proposal which voters rejected on May 20 in two ways:

The BOF cut the Town Police overtime budget by $100,000 – almost half of the budgeted amount of $210,000 and added that $100,000 to the BOE budget. Overtime is critical to the Town’s ability to conduct daily police operations. The department requires overtime to provide:

- a second SRO on the elementary school campus which now serves 900 students and staff,
- mandatory minimum coverage for patrol as part of the rotating schedule,
- mandatory minimum coverage when officers are absent for vacation, sick, comp and training days,
- mandatory minimum coverage when officers must complete investigations, transport arrested individuals to Troop A in Southbury or appear in Court,
- security, crowd and traffic control at sporting events, Town meetings and Town events such as Sip and Stroll, Trick or Treat Fest and New Fairfield Day and,
- traffic control around Squantz Pond State Park in the summer months.

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

To be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 22, 2023, PAGE TBD

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Jeopardizes law enforcement programs (including SRO positions) by cutting $100,000 from the town budget for police overtime. While the Board of Finance has the statutory authority to make such line-item cuts for the Board of Selectmen, to cut this line item in half without consulting with Town officials about the impact on law enforcement is also not well-grounded decision-making. Through careful planning and hiring officers specifically for School Resource Office (SRO) positions, the town has reduced its police overtime budget in recent years. Halving the overtime budget as provided in this budget jeopardizes our ability to perform law enforcement obligations, including providing a second SRO at the elementary school campus; covering all patrol shifts; covering for vacation, sick, comp and training days; covering for transport of prisoners to Southbury or to appear in court; providing for security and traffic control at town events and Squantz Pond.
Does not restore enough funding to the education budget. The proposal before voters restores $100,000 of the $800,000 the Board of Finance majority cut from the Board of Education budget. This is not enough to make sure staffing and programs are in place to improve the curriculum and raise test scores and to help our most vulnerable children. Many students are still struggling in the aftermath of COVID. Members of the BoF were invited by the Board of Education to visit the schools to observe the current school environment, but they declined. Relying on memories of classroom experiences from well over a decade – sometimes several decades — ago to override the recommendations of those officials specifically elected to oversee education does not lead to well-grounded decisions.
Leaves a hole in next year’s budget of over $1 million. Although this second budget decreased the amount of bond premium used from the first budget, it still uses more than needed to smooth the debt payment curve. As a result, next year there will be an additional jump of $1 million in debt payment, equal to a 2 percent increase in property taxes.

The second budget referendum is Saturday, June 24 from 10am-8pm at the New Fairfield Senior Center.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, June 8, 2023, PAGE 2

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Budget Update

to provide a second SRO on the elementary school campus which now serves 900 students and staff,
to ensure mandatory minimum coverage for patrol as part of the rotating schedule, covering 11-17 shifts per month,
to ensure mandatory minimums when officers are absent for vacation, sick, comp and training days,
to ensure mandatory minimums when officers must complete investigations, transport arrested individuals to Troop A in Southbury or appear in Court,
to provide security, crowd and traffic control at sporting events, Town meetings and Town events such as Sip and Stroll, Trick or Treat Fest and New Fairfield Day and,
to provide traffic control around Squantz Pond State Park in the summer months.

The budget proposed by the BOF does not allow for the staffing needed to provide these services.

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As was submitted but not published by the Town Tribune on May 18, 2023

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A cut of $800,000 to the Board of Education’s proposed operating budget, for a total of $39,864,503 and a further cut of $100,000 from the BoE capital fund for a mandated replacement of an oil tank, for a total of $148,575.
A cut of $345,000 of the Board of Selectmen’s operating budget for a total of $12,503,997. The Board added $50,000 to the BoS capital budget for Fire Department reserve for a total of $882,070.
The allocation of $7,400,000 to medical insurance fund to pay the Town and School portion of medical insurance for employees.
Application of $2,500,000 of bond premium against debt service of $8,165,593 primarily for school construction.

This formulation produces a mill rate increase of 5.70%.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, May 18, 2023, PAGE 2

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Selectman’s Update

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, May 4, 2023. Page 3

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The meeting lasted eight hours, starting at 7:30pm and ending a little after 3:30am. The previous meeting on April 12 lasted until just past 1:00am. Last week’s meeting went on so long that one BoF majority member was caught on tape nodding off and another majority member dropped from the meeting because her device ran out of power. A BoF Alternate member of the majority also dropped off the meeting.
One of the reasons for the length of these meetings was the large number of residents who made public comment. Over 600 people signed onto the Zoom meeting on 4/26-27 and over 400 joined on 4/12. At the 4/26 meeting over 80 people commented, with all but 4 opposing the cuts the Board of Finance majority were proposing. Similarly, 59 people commented on 4/12, again with all but 7 opposing the cuts. Letters to the Board of Finance also showed a similar margin of opposing the cuts proposed by the Board of Finance. If you total up all the comments and emails, 94% favored full funding of the budgets and 6% supported cuts.
First Selectman Pat Del Monaco and Schools Superintendent Ken Craw made presentations showing the impact of the BoF suggested cuts of $300,000 to the town budget and $1,775,000 to the school budget. The cuts to the Town budget centered on cutting $150,000 of paving. The cuts to the BoE budget entailed laying off 24 staff (teachers, paras, administrators) with significant negative impact to class size, freshman sports, STEAM, strings, and other programs. This would result in a 6.65% mill rate increase.
These cuts proposed by the BoF majority followed rejection of a proposal by BoF minority member Cheryl Reedy on April 12 that would cut $585,000 from the BoE budget and $175,000 from the BoS budget. This would have resulted in a 6.96% mill rate increase, which in turn would yield a yearly tax bill roughly $20 more than the 6.65% increase the majority argued for on April 12 for a family living in a home assessed at median value.
After 11:00pm, majority member Kim Hanson introduced an amendment that would reshape the possible cuts to the BoS budget by restoring paving but removing hours from positions that were made fulltime in the last six years and cutting hours or salaries for other positions. This amendment had circulated among members of the majority earlier in the day and they had discussed it among themselves. The minority members and the public had not seen it until its introduction after 11:00pm.
The last-minute amendment proposed by majority Board member Kim Hanson included a flip-flop on the issue of the bond premium. The majority members went from an original position of spreading the almost $3,000,000 in bond premium over all the years of debt service to a position of using $1,300,000 to a position on April 26 of using $2,500,000, the latter number clearly a short-sighted effort to lower the overall tax increase. In doing this, they have created a hole in the budget, which will require increased funding through taxes next year.
After very contentious debate and on a party-line vote, the Board approved a budget proposal that would cut $900,000 from the original Board of Education proposal and $345,000 from the original Board of Selectmen budget. While the Board of Education reductions are roughly half of what the BoF originally demanded, they continue to do damage to an education program that is still rebuilding after COVID.
The BoF recommended budget yields a 5.7% mill rate increase compared to a 6.96% increase in Cheryl Reedy’s proposal of April 12. This would save a family living in a home of median value $90.61 a year in property taxes, while cutting important educational programs. Families in homes with lower assessed values would have less impact. I’m not sure that a majority of residents will see this as much of a bargain.
The BoF did vote by a slim majority to add separate advisory questions to the ballot to allow residents to vote whether the town budget and school budgets are too high or too low. If the budget vote fails, this should be valuable advice to the Board of Finance for any follow-up budgets.

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As submitted to be published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, April 20, 2023 (but not yet published in the Town Tribune)

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BUDGET STALEMATE?

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, April 20, 2023, PAGE 2

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It Doesn’t Need to be This Way

The chart below describes how cuts to the BOE budget would impact the education of our children:

Impact of Staffing Reductions

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, April 6, 2023, PAGE 2

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Where do we go from here?

The chart below describes how cuts to the BOE budget would impact the education of our children:

Impact of Staffing Reductions

Recovery from cuts of the magnitude suggested by the BOF would take years, if not decades. We have been down this road before, and four years ago were faced with the results of underfunding maintenance and repair of critical infrastructure – crumbling school buildings and the high cost of replacing them. We have also borne the cost of rebuilding roads that were paved with inferior materials to “save money.” Our schools have invested in our students’ academic success, including employing coaching and intervention strategies which led New Fairfield to recover from the pandemic more quickly than most districts, nearing pre-pandemic achievement levels. Our students are achieving substantially more growth in both English/Language Arts and Math than most districts. Clearly, now is not the time to slash staffing and programs in our schools.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, March 30, 2023, PAGE 2

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Budget Increase 2023_2024

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Khris 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, March 16, 2023, PAGE 3

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Inflation has hit town and school services, just as it has every sector;
The last round of bonding takes place later this month and will impact next year’s budget by about $3,000,000;
The cost of ambulance service has increased approximately $300,000, with no remedy;
Medical costs are rising everywhere. Early estimates for medical costs indicate increases of $2,000,000;
The Schools have made significant progress in dealing with the COVID educational deficit, but need to continue to fund approximately 10 positions from town funds rather than federal funds that are no longer available to continue that progress;
The Town has added resources to the 911 call center and an SRO to improve public safety.

Debt Restructuring 2023 (721.544)

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, March 2, 2023, PAGE 2

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EARTN DAY CELEBRATION

TAX COLLECTOR POSITION

POLICE BOAT BONDING LEGISLATION

ANNUAL BUDGET HEARING

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, February 23, 2023, PAGE 2

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POLICE BOAT BONDING LEGISLATION

Therefore, after discussion with our Resident Sergeant, we agreed that it is prudent to obtain a police boat for the NFPD to provide limited police patrols on the Lake at the busiest times during the summer and to provide immediate police access to the Lake in times of emergency. Officers who serve as School Resource Officers come back into patrol during the summer, allowing the department to accommodate these patrols with existing staff. Our officers will work cooperatively with the other law enforcement agencies on the Lake to ensure the safety of all who wish to enjoy Candlewood Lake.

BUS LOT UPDATE

NEW FAIRFIELD BROADBAND STUDY

If the project moves forward, it will be built on the following principles:

Participation will be on a voluntary, opt-in basis.
Taxes would not be increased to fund the project. The ongoing operation of the network will be self-sustaining and not dependent on any kind of subsidy from the Town.

In undertaking this study, our goals are to:

Lower the cost of existing internet access by 30% for residents and businesses.
Significantly increase the speed and reliability of internet access.
Increase competition and give residents multiple options for Internet Service Providers on demand in real time.
Build a state-of-the-art network that will improve economic development and foster innovation.

ARPA SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS

The application is accessible by going to the Town website, www.newfairfield.org and clicking on the banner at the top of the home page.

SMALL CITIES GRANT PROGRAM

SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Khris 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, February 16, 2023, PAGE 3

Town employees provide the services you as residents use – or can use — regularly. Among other things, they:

Provide police (including School Resource Officers), fire safety, emergency dispatch services and emergency planning services
Plow and pave our roads, operate the Drop-Off Center, and maintain town properties (buildings, fields, Town Park)
Provide tax, financial and treasury services to safeguard, collect and disburse our financial resources efficiently and fairly
Staff the Library and Senior Center and coordinate all their popular programs
Provide the recreational programs – team sports, summer camps, seasonal events such as the Holiday Light parade, the boat parade, Sip ‘N Stroll, Halloween event, etc. – that are attended by a large number of Town residents
Register voters, staff our elections and ensure their integrity
Provide land use and building services – zoning, building inspections, wetlands conservation
Staff social services for those in need
Staff animal control services
Provide services to protect public health, such as vaccination clinics, septic inspections, restaurant inspections, etc.
Administer town documents, such as real estate records and licenses.

All Town employees are overseen by First Selectman Pat DelMonaco. One of the many hats she wears is making sure personnel issues – pay, performance, disputes, etc. – are handled professionally.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, February 2, 2023, PAGE 2

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SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

To be eligible for assistance under this program, applicant must be a New Fairfield based business that is physically located and registered within the Town of New Fairfield and employs twenty-five or fewer employees as of January 1,
The business must currently be in and have been in operation as of January 1, 2019.
Applicant must be in good standing and current on its federal, state and local tax obligations and have no outstanding liens or judgements.
Applicant must be compliant with the Connecticut Department of Labor Office of Unemployment Assistance and all applicable state and federal employment laws and regulations, including but not limited to minimum wage, unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation and child
The business must be able to demonstrate satisfactorily that it has been negatively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and that the funding will enable the business to continue to operate and become stronger. The business must present a reasonable likelihood for long term viability.
The business must have a clear and specific use for the grant money and the grant money can only be used toward future
Applicant must self-certify the eligibility requirements on the application.

HOW MUCH CAN I APPLY FOR?

Business must demonstrate economic hardship and demonstrate that the operating funds are necessary and sufficient, when combined with any other sources, to sustain the business.

WHAT IS THE APPROVAL PROCESS?

A SELECTMAN’S VIEW

By Khris Hall, Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Khris 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, January 19, 2023, PAGE 3

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GOT FUEL OIL? You may have expensive issues you haven’t thought about.

Turns out I didn’t, as the recent experience of three New Fairfield fuel oil users demonstrate.

All three users have above ground tanks that leaked and caused damage that had to be cleaned up — and some of them face potential fines.

Lastly, I have heard that there is fairly inexpensive insurance that covers oil tank leaks. It may be useful to look into that as well.

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, January 19, 2023, PAGE 2

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SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

New Fairfield Parks and Recreation is hiring for Summer 2023!

ALL APPLICATIONS are on-line through January 27^th. Please visit www.newfairfield.org , Municipal Departments, Human Resources, Employment Opportunities to apply.

BUDGET PROCESS

BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES

A VIEW FROM TOWN HALL

By Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman, Town of New Fairfield 22 Pat 3 by 4 about

As published in the Town Tribune, Section 1, January 12, 2023, PAGE 2

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GRANT FUNDING

BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES

More information about New Fairfield Boards and Commissions can be found on the Town website under the “Our Town” tab.

WINTER PROGRAMS

Stay tuned for more information on other New Fairfield events.

Paid for by New Fairfield Democratic Town Committee – John McCartney, Treasurer