The Suffield Observer (https://thesuffieldobserver.com/category/columns/first-selectmans-update/page/5/)
In my March column, I detailed my vision for a vibrant Town Center and Suffield’s fiscal independence through commercial development, necessitating moving the Town Highway Garage. Now we’re knee deep in spring, and what better time to get into the weeds of the relocation?
I am relieved and delighted to announce that Kent Memorial Library will reopen its doors in June. This project proved to be my most challenging inheritance to date as First Selectman. The unforeseen polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) remediation catapulted costs far beyond original town approvals. These are the hazards we risk when renovating old buildings – no matter how significant or beloved. This is the lesson learned and to be remembered.
The month of March may have come in like a lamb weather-wise, but for Town business it’s been more like a lion! As outlined in my last two columns, there’s been a simultaneous focus on Kent Memorial Library, economic development of Ffyler Place/ the Town Garage/ Town Center Village District and Town Hall.
In recent conversations regarding relocation of the Town highway garage, both boards and residents alike have asked, “Why move the garage at all?”
One of my favorite leisure activities – working on puzzles – has proven an invaluable asset in this job. The many Town initiatives I am eager to see to fruition are like a puzzle; the big picture requires all the smaller pieces to fit together.
In October, I joined town leaders from across the state and attended productive workshops at the annual Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) convention. Given the State’s financial woes, much of the focus centered on how towns can better position themselves for impending cuts to municipal aid. Hot button items included the need for collaboration, and structural changes via regionalization and within towns themselves. Consistently, the theme relative to success was the need, ultimately, for trust between partners. I am happy to say that in Suffield, we have such trusted partners in both our schools and neighboring towns.
By way of tradition, I have used my November update as a “year-in-review.” It’s a great way to share with residents our accomplishments and keeps me accountable for the goals I’ve set.
Congratulations to the Friends of Suffield on another successful Suffield on the Green! Best SOTG ever!
The lazy dog days of summer proved elusive for Town departments and boards which worked diligently to progress key initiatives. Here’s an update on what we’ve been working on…
Thomas Jefferson espoused that, “An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.”