Too busy to look up what’s going on in town? This article covers selected information from various Town Boards and Commissions. If you want more detail, it can be found by going to suffieldct.gov, Agendas, Minutes and Recordings.
Board of Education: Student assessment test results were discussed including where students were above grade level and where actions are needed to improve understanding and retention.
Objectives of the Suffield Middle School Advancement Plan that includes measuring instructional practices were discussed. Action steps and success indicators for each objective were presented.
Board of Finance: The Police Department realized proceeds of $19,900 from the sale of items and will carry those funds for future Police Cruiser purchases. The union contract for DPW has been paid out. There will be a significant surplus for the year in large part due to higher interest income, higher collections of delinquent taxes and interest, and higher grants, along with favorable expenses on the Selectman’s budget.
Board of Selectmen: Comments regarding proposed members for the Library Commission were heard. Additionally, other member changes for several commissions were noted.
Charter Revision Commission: The Commission has determined that the Treasurer position should be an appointed position, and the Tax Collector and Town Clerk will continue to be elected. An opposing thought indicated all three should remain elected to remain independent of politics.
Conservation Commission: A proposal to build two homes on 3.7 acres on South Stone Street was presented to discuss septic distances from the wetlands. They also discussed the logging taking place behind St. Joseph’s church.
There was a public hearing regarding the application to renew a previous permit that had expired in 2003 for Phase 2 of Eastwoods Active Adult Housing on East Street. The design is essentially the same with an upgrade to the storm drainage system. Residents nearby expressed concerns regarding drainage, wildlife, and the ecosystem. This is still under discussion.
Economic Development: Several topics were discussed including an education series for small businesses, a pamphlet being designed of things to do in and around Suffield, and signage regulations. Progress on the informational kiosk at the library was also discussed.
The Farm/Artist promotion where 13 farms and 13 artists have been matched to create new farm stand signs. There will also be another opportunity for the Tax Increment Financing matching grant for businesses, see page 1.
Historic District Commission: A zoning change was approved for 1289 Hill Street to accommodate moving the porch and carport to the right side of the home. This is being done due to the close proximity of the home next to it.
Removal of the King House fencing was discussed as the cost to replace it was greater than expected. An application will be submitted for review. Construction of a shed on Mapleton Avenue was approved with changes and demolition of buildings on North Main Street was denied.
Permanent Building Commission: Another playing field review took place. The major outdoor concern is parking. The inside tour included several areas such as the Media Center, Computer Lab, Wood Shop. and others. During the review, they compared their observations with the Tecton report. All areas have been sufficiently reviewed and they can now begin evaluating.
Planning & Zoning: A Public Hearing was held to discuss a waiver of the Subdivision Regulations requiring sidewalks and trees for the Hamlet at King’s Meadow on East Street South. This was requested on behalf of the residents who do not want them. Residents provided comments with 17 opposing sidewalks and four in favor.
A Public Hearing will be held for a special permit/site plan. The request is to use the former bank building on Mountain Road as a place of worship.
Veterans Memorial Expansion Committee: The memorial has been finished and will be delivered to Rogers Memorial. Lighting, pavers, and an ADA sidewalk are being discussed.