Melissa Mack
This month’s article is devoted to items regarding the Town’s safety, one of the most important responsibilities I am entrusted with as your First Selectman. I feel confident speaking on behalf of the community when I offer a sincere thank you to the Highway, Ambulance, Police, Fire and Emergency Management Departments for all of their pre-planning and hard work to keep us secure throughout the winter months. Even Winter Storm Stella’s wrath proved no match for our dedicated Town employees!
Keeping our streets not only plowed but well-lighted is paramount for pedestrians and vehicles alike. In response to recent concerns, the Police Department made a visual inspection of all streetlights within the Town during recent midnight shifts. A total of 67 malfunctioning lights were reported to Eversource. Typical repair time quoted by Eversource is three business days barring any major issues involving digging, re-wiring, etc. We appreciate the Police Department’s efforts on this front.
Residents are reminded to utilize our website (www.suffieldct.gov) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/townofsuffield) for important information such as storm cancellations; delays/changes to trash and recycling pick up; or to report streetlight outages via a direct link to Eversource (www.eversource.com/Content/ct-c/residential/programs-services/street-light-repair-request).
In a show of strong support for Suffield’s Fire Department, residents unanimously approved the purchase of three new fire trucks at a Town Meeting on March 7. The $2.8 million financing is earmarked to replace three aging vehicles including a rescue, tower ladder and engine/pumper. We look forward to the shiny new additions on our streets in 2018. In addition, on behalf of the Town, I thank and congratulate Fire Lieutenant Kevin Seger, Firefighter Colby Tyler and Fire Cadet Justin Seger for their display of skill and courage that recently saved a resident’s life on Boston Neck Road.
A year in the making, the fiber optic extension connecting all of our emergency services together is officially complete. The final step of this project included Kent Memorial Library, Bridge Street School, Suffield Senior Center and most notably, the Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association which houses the Town’s Emergency Operations Center. The Police, Fire and Ambulance are now all linked within the same network. The fiber also promises faster, more efficient speeds and provides backup communications transmitters to assist first responders in emergencies.
As we endeavor to improve the Town’s safety, we encourage safe homes too. Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day will take place on Saturday, April 8th from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Town Highway Garage at Ffyler Place. A list of acceptable items is available at the Town website.
While many enjoy getting rid of “stuff,” especially at this time of year, Suffield is not immune from the challenges and health risks of hoarding. A community forum will be held on Thursday, April 27th from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Suffield Middle School to help us learn the best way to assist our neighbors struggling with this disorder. All are welcome.
Looking forward to warmer weather, the Parks & Recreation Department is seeking Lifeguards and Gate Attendants for Babb’s Beach and Sunrise Park Day Camp. Training classes to become a certified Lifeguard or Water Safety Instructor will be held in nearby indoor pools during April school vacation (April 10-14). First aid and C.P.R. training are also required for the positions. Call the department for additional information at 860- 668-3862. Happy Spring!