Agenda

Board of Selectmen - Agenda - Aug 10, 2026

Aug 10, 2026

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Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
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BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Regular Meeting Agenda – August 10, 2026 – 6:00 P.M.
Main Meeting Room, Simsbury Town Hall
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PRESENTATION
Financial Strategic Planning Roadmap Proposal by Finance Director-Treasurer Amy Meriwether
PUBLIC AUDIENCE
 Email townmanager@simsbury-ct.gov by noon on Monday, August 10, 2026 to register to
address the Board of Selectmen live through Zoom
 Written comments can be emailed to townmanager@simsbury-ct.gov, not read into the
record, but forwarded to all Selectmen via email
CONSENT AGENDA
FIRST SELECTMAN’S REPORT
TOWN MANAGER’S REPORT
LIAISON AND SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
SELECTMEN ACTION
a) Authorize the Town Manager to Execute Tax Overpayment Refunds
b) Review and Discuss Updates to Draft Amendments to the Town Code Chapter 13: Ethics,
Code of
c) Authorize the Town Manager to Submit an Agreement for a State of Connecticut Secretary
of State Early Voting Grant
d) Authorize the Town Manager to Apply for the Simsbury Community Fund Grant
e) Schedule a Public Hearing to Receive Public Comment Regarding Adopting Two Local
Options Allowed by Connecticut Public Act No. 25-168
f) Authorize the Town Manager to Engage with Efficient Lighting & Maintenance Inc. Regarding
Implementation of the New England Smart Energy Group, LLC Master Agreement
g) Authorize the Town Manager to Apply for a 2026 Greyfield Revitalization Program Grant
for 82 Hopmeadow Street
h) Review and Adopt the Board of Selectmen Goals for the 2025-27 Term of Office1
Town of Simsbury Board of Selectmen
Regular Meeting Agenda
August 10, 2026 Page 2
APPOINTMENTS AND RESIGNATIONS
a) Reappoint Matthew Arthur to the Economic Development Commission
b) Appoint Jeremy Pearlman and Michael Zemel to the Economic Development Commission
c) Acknowledge Receipt of William Clegg’s Resignation from the Public Building Committee
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a) July 13, 2026 Regular Meeting
COMMUNICATIONS
a) Memorandum from the Town Manager re: SPAC Maintenance Responsibilities dated August
3, 2026
b) Memorandum from the Town Manager re: Administrative Approval of Public Gathering
Permits dated August 10, 2026
c) Memorandum from the Public Works Director/Town Engineer re: Solar Power Purchase
Agreements - High School and Latimer Lane Elementary School dated July 20, 2026
d) Memorandum from the Public Works Director/Town Engineer re: Stoddard Reservoir Dam,
dated August 10, 2026
ADJOURN2
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Authorize the Town Manager to Execute Tax
Overpayment Refunds
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager; Sherry Clemens, Tax Collector
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support approving the tax refunds as presented, the following motion is
in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to approve the presented tax refunds in the amount of
$4,179.21 and authorize Town Manager, Marc Nelson, to execute the tax refunds
5. Summary of Submission:
Tax refunds need to be issued from time to time for motor vehicles, real property, and
personal property. Some of the most common reasons tax refunds need to be issued for
motor vehicles include: sale of the vehicle; the vehicle is destroyed; the vehicle is donated;
the owner has moved out of state; or, the owner has successfully appealed the taxes.
Real estate refunds are typically due to the fact that during the sale or refinancing of a
property, both a bank and an attorney’s office have paid taxes owed, resulting in an
overpayment to the Town. Overpayments of personal property taxes are rare; often
overpayments of personal property are due to a person or entity forgetting that they paid
in full in July, then also sending the January installment.
In a legal opinion from the Town Attorney dated May 22, 2001, he stated that C.G.S. §
12-129 “requires that all applications for tax refunds be referred to the Board (of
Selectmen) for their consideration and action.” Once approved by the Board of
Selectmen, the Town Manager will sign off on tax refund applications. As a reminder, the
Tax Collector’s Office is responsible for collecting revenue for the Fire District pursuant
to Special Act #264 of the Legislature in 1945. However, tax refunds for the Fire District
are not under the jurisdiction of nor approved by the Board of Selectmen and are therefore
not included in the requested tax refunds presented.
6. Fiscal Impact:
The aggregate amount of all tax refunds as presented is $4,179.21. The attachment
dated August 10th has a detailed listing of all requested tax refunds.
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Requested Tax Refunds, dated August 10, 20263
BILL NUMBER TAX FIRE INTEREST TOTAL
BOS 8/10/26
LEASING
NISSAN INFINITI LT LLC 2024-03-0064015 261.33$ -$ -$ 261.33$
VW CREDIT LEASING LTD 2025-03-0007537 283.38$ 0.88$ -$ 284.26$
VW CREDIT LEASING LTD 2025-03-0070530 229.53$ 0.71$ -$ 230.24$
-$ -$ -$ LEASING TOTAL
775.83$
MOTOR VEHICLE
ARSENAULT HEATHER & EVAN 2023-03-0050707 433.02$ 14.05$ -$ 447.07$
BLACK EMILY 2024-03-0051645 56.22$ -$ -$ 56.22$
DANNOLFO JOSEPH 2025-03-0054453 78.88$ -$ 78.88$
HORN THOMAS & MAUREEN 2025-03-0058869 224.26$ 0.69$ -$ 224.95$
MARTINELLI JOSHUA 2024-03-0062219 274.29$ -$ -$ 274.29$
NOBEL ROGER 2024-03-0064065 127.89$ -$ -$ 127.89$
NOBEL ROGER 2024-03-0064067 303.83$ -$ -$ 303.83$
NOBEL ROGER 2024-03-0064061 945.24$ -$ -$ 945.24$
NOBEL ROGER 2024-03-0064062 115.88$ -$ -$ 115.88$
PINKHAM LINDSEY 2025-03-0065379 426.12$ 1.32$ -$ 427.44$
PRESTON JOHN 2025-03-0065671 299.44$ -$ -$ 299.44$ MOTOR VEHICLE TOTAL
YACHANIN MICHAEL & CAROL 2025-03-0071547 119.90$ 0.37$ -$ 120.27$ 3,421.40$
ABATEMENT
COCHRAN ELNORA 2025-03-0053573 227.22$ -$ -$ 227.22$ ABATEMENT
227.22$
TAX FIRE INTEREST GRAND
GRAND TOTALS 4,179.21$ 18.02$ -$ 4,424.45$4
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Review and Discuss Updates to Draft Amendments to
the Town Code Chapter 13: Ethics, Code of
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
No action requested; discussion item for Board guidance to staff regarding any other
changes or edits the Selectmen would like to see before a final version is presented.
5. Summary of Submission:
At your June 8, 2026 regular meeting, the Board of Selectmen scheduled a public hearing
on the proposed amendments to the ordinance. At your July 13th public hearing, the
Selectmen heard from members of the public regarding the proposed amendment. The
current draft incorporates feedback received over the last couple of months, including
from the HR Director and the Superintendent of Simsbury Public Schools.
The ordinance saw its last full revision/review back in 2009, predating the 2017 Charter
change to a Town Manager/CEO form of government. Under the proposed amendments,
the referral of matters not dismissed as unfounded, shift from going to the Board of
Selectmen, to going to the Town Manager or, in the case of Board of Education
employees, to the Superintendent of Schools. The amendments also clarify where
referrals are directed if a complaint against an elected official – either to the Board of
Selectmen, or to the Board of Education, respectively, the same would be true in the
event of a complaint against the Town Manager or the Superintendent of Schools.
The only other significant change concerns the administrative process around training of
staff, maintenance of relevant records, and responsibility to ensure initial and periodic
acknowledgments, in writing, by employees. The establishment of the Town’s Human
Resources Department provides, as it was planned to, opportunities to centralize
important matters which had previously been dispersed amongst the various
departments. That centralization, in turn, allows for strengthening compliance, education,
and training.
6. Fiscal Impact:
None
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Proposed Amendments to Town Code Chapter 13: Ethics, Code of5
Town of Simsbury, CT
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Chapter 13
ETHICS, CODE OF
§ 13-1. Legislative intent. § 13-8. Equal treatment.
§ 13-2. Board of Ethics. § 13-9. Conflict of interest.
§ 13-3. Definitions. § 13-10. Disclosure.
§ 13-4.
§ 13-5.
§ 13-6.
Consultants.
Confidential information.
Use of influence.
§ 13-11.
§ 13-12.
Incompatible employment and
activities.
Acknowledgment form.
§ 13-7. Gifts and favors.
[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Simsbury 9-14-1988; amended in
its entirety 4-13-2009. Subsequent amendments noted where applicable.] and August XX, 2026.
GENERAL REFERENCES
Personnel — See Ch. 48.
Salaries and compensation — See Ch. 57.
Purchase of alcoholic beverages at Town expense — See Ch. 63.
Gift policy — See Ch. 100.
Personnel Rules and Regulations — See Ch. A160.
§ 13-1. Legislative intent.
The proper operation of government requires that public officials and public employees be independent,
impartial, and responsible to the people; that governmental decisions and policies be made free from undue
influence and in the proper channels of governmental structure; that governmental office and employment
not be used for unauthorized personal gain; that governmental officials and employees strive to avoid even
the appearance of impropriety; and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government. The
purpose of this Code of Ethics is to set forth standards of ethical conduct to guide officials and employees
of the Town of Simsbury in the conduct of their public responsibilities and to develop and maintain a
tradition of responsible and effective public service. In recognition of these goals, this Code of Ethics is
established pursuant to authority granted to the Town by Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-148h, as
amended.
§ 13-2. Board of Ethics.
A. Establishment. As authorized by Sections 702 and 715 of the Charter of the Town of Simsbury (
“Charter”) and Section 7-148h, as amended, of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Board of
Selectmen shall appoint a Board of Ethics consisting of six members, two of whom shall be registered
Republicans, two of whom shall be registered Democrats and two of whom shall be unaffiliated voters.
The members of the Board shall serve four-year terms., except that at the first appointment by the
Board of Selectmen, one Republican, one Democrat and one unaffiliated voter shall be appointed for
two-year terms, with the remaining members appointed for four-year terms. Biennially, thereafter, the
Board of Selectmen shall appoint in the manner provided in the Charter of the Town of Simsbury.,
except in the case of an appointment to fill a vacancy, which appointment shall be for the remaining
unexpired term of that seat.6
Town of Simsbury, CT
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§ 13-2 SIMSBURY CODE § 13-2
B. Organization and procedure.
B. The Board shall elect a Chairman and Vice Chairman/Secretary and shall establish its own rules and
procedures, which shall be available to any elector of the Town upon request to the Town Clerk to the
Board. The first rules and procedures shall be established within six months of the date this chapter
becomes effective. The need to maintain confidentiality in order to protect the privacy of public
officials, employees, and consultants shall be considered when establishing the rules and procedures.
It shall keep records of its meetings and shall hold meetings at the call of the Chairman and at such
other times as it may determine.
C. C. Powers and duties.
(1) The Board mayshall render advisory opinions with respect to the applicability of the Code of
Ethics to specific situations to any agency or any official, employee, or consultant pursuant to a
written request or upon its own initiative. The Board may also issue guidelines. Such opinions
and guidelines, until amended or revoked, shall be binding on the Board, and reliance upon them
in good faith is an absolute defense in any action brought under the provisions of this chapter or
under Section 1003 of the Town Charter. Any request or opinion, the disclosure of which invades
the personal privacy of any individual [as that term is used in Connecticut General Statutes
Section 1-21019(b)(2), as amended, by the Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission
and the courts], shall be kept confidential in a personnel or similar file and shall not be subject
to public inspection or disclosure. The Board may make available to the public any advisory
opinions that do not invade an individual's privacy and may take other appropriate steps in an
effort to increase public awareness of this Code of Ethics.
(2) The Board shall establish procedures by which the public may initiate complaints alleging a
violation of this Code of Ethics. The Board itself may also initiate such a complaint. The Board
shall have that power and to hold hearings concerning the application of this Code and its
violation and may administer oaths and compel the attendance of witnesses by subpoena. As
required by Section 7-148h(a) of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, the provisions
of Section 1-82(a) through (c) of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, shall apply to
all investigations and hearings held under this chapter. If the Board determines that there is
probable cause, it shall continue the investigation and hold such further hearings as may be
necessary; and if the Board determines that the respondent has, in fact, violated the provisions
of this Code, it shall file a memorandum of decision with a recommendation for appropriate
action with the Board of Selectmen in any matter involving an elected official of the Town, or
with the Town Manager in any other matter, except with respect to individuals under the
jurisdiction of the Board of Education, in which cases the memorandum of decision shall be filed
with the Board of Education. In the case of a vendor or consultant to the Town, it shall also be filed
with the contracting agency, and a copy shall be provided to the Director of Finance.
(3) If an official, employee, or consultant who is the subject of a complaint under investigation
leaves office or employment after filing of the complaint but before resolution of the complaint,
the Board shall have the power, by majority vote, to continue investigation of the complaint. If
an ethics complaint is filed against a former Town of Simsbury official, employee, or consultant
within 90 days after he or she has left employment for the Town, the Board shall have the power,
by majority vote, to initiate an investigation.
(4) The recommended action may include reprimand, public censure, a fine not to exceed $100 or
other such action as the Town Manager, Board of Selectmen, or Board of Education may deem
appropriate in accordance with their respective responsibilities under the law, provided that in
the case of union employees, such recommended action does not constitute a unilateral change
in conditions of employment. No such recommendation shall limit the authority of the Board of7
Town of Simsbury, CT
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Selectmen, or the Board of Education, or the Town Manager under the Charter of the Town of
Simsbury or under any ordinance, statute, or any other law, and the actions hereunder shall
be supplemental to any8
Town of Simsbury, CT
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§ 13-2 ETHICS, CODE OF § 13-6
authority the Board of Selectmen or Board of Education has under any ordinance, statute, or any
other law. Any discussion by the Board of Selectmen, Board of Education, or contracting agency
of an individual affected by said memorandum of decision shall be in executive session, unless
the individual affected requests that such discussion be held in open session.
§ 13-3. Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms shall have the indicated meanings:
AGENCY — All boards, commissions, authorities, and committees of the Town of Simsbury, including the
Board of Education, but not including a Town Meeting.
BENEFICIAL INTEREST — Any nonfinancial interest or special treatment that is not common to other
citizens of the Town. An individual's beneficial interests shall include the beneficial interests of all members
of theirhis/her family.
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION — Information, whether transmitted orally or in writing, that is
obtained by an official or employee by reason of theirhis/her public position and is of such nature that, at
the time of transmission, it is not a matter of public record.
CONSULTANT — Any independent contractor or professional person or firm that is engaged by and
receives compensation from any agency for the purpose of providing scientific, technical, or other
specialized opinion to such agency and is in a position to influence any decision of an agency, official, or
employee.
EMPLOYEE — Includes all persons, including but not limited to officers and supervisors, employed by
the Town and encompasses all persons, including but not limited to officers and supervisors, employed by
the Board of Education.
FINANCIAL INTEREST — Any interest that has a monetary value of $100 or more or generates a financial
gain or loss of $100 or more in a calendar year; and is not common to the other citizens of the Town. An
individual's financial interests shall include the financial interests of all members of theirhis/her family but
shall not include any duly authorized compensation from the Town.
OFFICIAL — Includes all persons who are members of a Town agency.
§ 13-4. Consultants.
A. This Code of Ethics shall be incorporated into all contracts entered into by an agency and a consultant.
B. Persons or firms who are engaged by and receive compensation from other entities, such as the state
or federal government, and who are in a position to influence any decision of an agency, official, or
employee shall be guided by this Code of Ethics, and the Board of Ethics, upon complaint or its own
motion, may make recommendations to the entity employing such persons.
§ 13-5. Confidential information.
Except as otherwise required by law, no official, employee, or consultant shall disclose, without proper
authorization, confidential information, nor shall theyhe/she use such information to advance theirhis/her
financial or beneficial interests or the financial or beneficial interests of others. This section shall not be
used to restrict the release of information that is properly available to the public.9
Town of Simsbury, CT
§ 13-6 SIMSBURY CODE § 13-9
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§ 13-6. Use of influence.
No official, employee, or consultant may inappropriately use t h e i r his/her position to influence a
decision affecting a financial interest or a beneficial interest in theirhis/her favor or in favor of any other person
or entity.
§ 13-7. Gifts and favors.
A. No official, employee, or consultant or any member of theirhis/her immediate family nor any agency,
employee organization, or group of employees shall solicit or accept any valuable gift, whether in the
form of a service, a loan at a less than a commercially reasonable rate, a material thing, or a promise,
from any person or entity who or which is interested directly or indirectly in any business transactions
or pending matters that are within the purview of such prospective recipient's official responsibilities.
No official or employee shall accept any special favor, treatment, consideration, or advantage beyond
that which is generally available to citizens of the Town from any person who, to the official or
employee's knowledge, is interested directly or indirectly in any business transactions or pending
matters that are within theirhis/her official responsibilities. For purposes of this section, pending
matters include, but are not limited to, applications to agencies, bids for work to be performed,
applications for employment, and bids for the furnishing of supplies, equipment, or other items.
B. The Board of Ethics shall formulate guidelines for delineating gifts and favors deemed not to be of
value in order to avoid de minimis situations. Such guidelines shall become effective upon adoption
by the Board of Selectmen.1
C. This section shall not apply to a political contribution otherwise reported as required by law.
§ 13-8. Equal treatment.
Without proper authorization, no official, employee, or consultant shall grant any special consideration,
treatment, or advantage to any citizen beyond that which is available to every other citizen.
§ 13-9. Conflict of interest.
A. An official or employee or consultant has a conflict of interest when theyhe/she engages in or
participates in any transaction, including private employment and the rendering of private services,
that is incompatible with the proper discharge of theirhis/her official responsibilities in the public
interest or would tend to impair theirhis/her independent judgment or action in the performance of
theirhis official responsibilities.
B. An official or employee or consultant has a financial interest or beneficial interest that is incompatible
with the proper discharge of theirhis/her official responsibilities in the public interest if theyhe/she has
have reason to believe or expect that theyhe/she will derive such interest by reason of theirhis/her
performance of theirhis/her official responsibilities.
C. An official or employee or consultant does not have a financial or beneficial interest that is
incompatible with the proper discharge of theirhis/her official responsibilities in the public interest if
any such interest accrues to themhim/her as a member of a business, profession, occupation, or group
to no greater extent than it accrues to any other member of the business, profession, occupation, or
group that theyhe/she represents. This does not relieve an individual from theirhis/her obligation to
refrain from voting on any matter that would directly benefit theirhis/her business, profession,
occupation, group, or family as required by § 13-10 of this Code of Ethics, Section 1003 of the
Charter of the Town of
1. Editor's Note: The Guidelines for Gifts and Favors is included at the end of this chapter.10
Town of Simsbury, CT
§ 13-9 ETHICS, CODE OF § 13-11
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Simsbury and General Statutes Section 7-148h(b), as amended.
§ 13-10. Disclosure.
A. Any official, employee, or consultant who has a financial or beneficial interest, direct or indirect, in
any contract, transaction, or decision within the purview of theirhis/her official responsibilities shall
disclose that interest in writing to the Board of Selectmen. Such disclosure also shall be provided, in
the case of an official, to the agency of which the official is a member, and, in the case of an employee
or consultant, to the agency by which theyhe/she areis employed or has been retained. Such disclosure
shall disqualify the official, employee, or consultant from participation in the matter, and violation of
this section shall be grounds for removal by the appropriate agency in accordance with applicable law.
B. No official or employee or consultant shall appear on behalf of any private person or party before any
agency in connection with any cause, proceeding, application, or other matter in which theyhe/she has
have a financial or beneficial interest without first disclosing such interest to the agency, which shall
record such disclosure in the record of the agency's proceeding.
B.C. The Secretary or Clerk of said agency shall notify the First Selectman, in the case of an elected official
or the Town Manager, the Chair of the Board of Education, in the case of the Superintendent of
Schools, and shall notify the Town Manager in the case of a Town employee, or the Superintendent
of Schools if an employee of the Board of Education, along with the , the Town Manager, in the case
of an employee, and, in the case of an official or employee of the Board of Education, the Chairman
of the Board of Education, and the Chairman of the Board of Ethics in writing of such disclosure
within three business days.
§ 13-11. Incompatible employment and activities.
A. No official or employee shall engage in or accept private employment or render services for private
interest when the employment or services: are incompatible with the proper discharge of theirhis/her
official duties; or would tend to impair theirhis/her independence of judgment or action in the
performance of theirhis official duty. No consultant shall engage in employment or render services
for interests other than the Town when such employment or services: are incompatible with the proper
discharge of theirhis/ her consulting duties; or would tend to impair the independence of theirhis/her
judgment or action on the matter for which he has been engaged by the Town.
B. No former official, employee, or consultant shall appear on behalf of any private person or other entity
before any agency with which theyhe/she previously was employed or affiliated with for a period of
one year after the termination of theirhis/her public service or employment. Such an individual may
be relieved of theirhis/her duty to refrain from such appearance upon written application to the Board
of Ethics, which Board shall review the written application and relevant facts.
C. No former official, employee, or consultant shall appear on behalf of any private person or other entity
before any agency in regard to a matter in which theyhe/she previously participated in the course of
theirhis/ her official responsibilities for a period of one year after the termination of theirhis/her public
service or employment. Such an individual may be relieved of theirhis/her duty to refrain from such
appearance upon written application to the Board of Ethics, which Board shall review the written
application and relevant facts.
D. Subsections B, C and D of this section shall not prohibit any current or former official, employee, or
consultant from appearing before any agency on theirhis/her own behalf or on behalf of members of
theirhis/ her family. To avoid the appearance of impropriety, officials are strongly discouraged from
appearing before their own agency unless extenuating circumstances exist. When in doubt, an official
should seek an opinion from the Board of Ethics prior to appearing before theirhis/her own agency.11
Town of Simsbury, CT
§ 13-9 ETHICS, CODE OF § 13-11
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E. An official should not appear before, or participate in the proceeding of, another agency in violation
of Connecticut General Statutes Section 8-11 or 8-21, as amended, or any other provision of the12
2. Editor's Note: The Acknowledgement Form is included at the end of this chapter.
General Statutes.
F. To avoid even the appearance of impropriety, an official not otherwise prohibited shall exercise care
when appearing before other agencies and shall disclose whether theyhe/she isare appearing in
theirhis/her official capacity or as a private citizen.
§ 13-12. Acknowledgment form.2
A. Every official shall sign and file with the Town ClerkBoard of Selectmen an acknowledgement form,
supplied by the Town Manager, indicating theirhis/her awareness of the provisions of this Code of
Ethics, the guidelines issued thereunder and Section 1003 of the Charter of the Town of Simsbury on
or before being sworn into office and again thereafter in January of each even numbered year. The
Board of Selectmen Superintendent of Schools, or Town Manager, as applicable, shall adopt and implement
a procedure for monitoring compliance with the aforesaid filing requirement. [Amended 7-12-2021]
B. Every consultant shall sign and file with the agency by which they he/she isare retained an
acknowledgment form, supplied by the TownFirst Selectman,, indicating theirhis/her awareness of
the provisions of this Code of Ethics, the guidelines thereunder, and Section 1003 of the Charter of
the Town of Simsbury on or before being retained by an agency. The Superintendent of Schools, or
Town Manager, as applicable,Board of Selectmen shall adopt and implement a procedure for
monitoring compliance with the aforesaid filing requirement.
C. Employees.
(1) The Town Manager Board of Selectmen shall adopt and the First Selectman shall implement a
plan for making all employees, other than persons who are employed by the Board of Education,
aware of the provisions of this Code of Ethics, the guidelines issued thereunder, and Section
1003 of the Charter of the Town of Simsbury. The plan established by the Town Manager
adopted by the Board of Selectmen shall contain a provision requiring that the Human Resources
Director or theirhis/her designee department heads review such provisions with all such employees
upon hiring, and three year intervals thereafterat an interval to be determined by the Board of
Selectmen. The plan shall be completed within 120 days after the adoption of this Code of Ethics,
and. A a copy of the plan shall be filed with the Board of Ethics upon implementation and upon
any subsequent revision.its adoption.
(2) Every employee, other than persons employed by the Board of Education, shall execute an
acknowledgment form, supplied by the Human Resources Director or theirhis/her designeeFirst
Selectman, indicating the employee's awareness of the provisions of this Code of Ethics, the
guidelines issued thereunder, and Section 1003 of the Charter. of the Town of Simsbury as
follows:
(a) New employees shall execute the form at the time of employment and thereafter in
accordance with Subsection C(2)(b) below.
(b) Current employees shall execute the form within 60 days after the adoption of the
procedure set forth in Subsection C(1) above and thereafter at intervals specified by the
Board of Selectmen, but in no event shall such intervals be less frequent than a period of
two years from the date of signing the last acknowledgement form.
D. Board of Education.
(1) The Board of Education shall adopt and the Superintendent shall implement a plan for making
all employees of the Board of Education aware of the provisions of this Code of Ethics, the
guidelines issued thereunder, and Section 1003 of the Charter of the Town of Simsbury. The13
plan adopted by the Board of Education shall contain a provision requiring that department heads
review such provisions with all employees at an interval to be determined by the Board of
Education. The plan shall be completed within 120 days after the adoption of this Code of Ethics,
and Aa copy of the plan shall be filed with the Board of Ethics upon its adoption.
(2) Every employee of the Board of Education, shall execute an acknowledgment form, supplied by
the Superintendent, or their designee, indicating the employee's awareness of the provisions of
this Code of Ethics, the guidelines issued thereunder, and Section 1003 of the Charter of the
Town of Simsbury, as follows.:
(a) New employees shall execute the form at the time of employment. and thereafter in
accordance with Subsection D(2)(b) below.
(b) Current employees shall reacknowledge the policy at intervals specified by the Board of
Education, or at least every three years, whichever is less.execute the form within 60 days
after the adoption of the procedure set forth in Subsection D(1) above and thereafter at
intervals specified by the Board of Education, but in no event shall such intervals be less
frequent than a period of two years from the date of signing the last acknowledgement
form.14
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Authorize the Town Manager to Submit an Agreement
for a State of Connecticut Secretary of State Early
Voting Grant
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager; Karen Cortes, Democratic Registrar of Voters; Jennifer
Batchelar, Republican Registrar of Voters
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support executing an agreement to assist with the cost of early voting,
the following motion is in order:
Move, retroactively, to submit a grant agreement to the State of Connecticut Secretary of
the State to assist with the costs of early voting, and authorize Town Manager Marc
Nelson to execute the agreement.
In the event that the grant is awarded, the following additional motions are in order:
Move, to accept the grant and authorize Town Manager Marc Nelson to execute all
documents related to the grant award.
Further move, to appropriate the grant’s funds and recommend said appropriation to the
Board of Finance.
5. Summary of Submission:
Public Act 26-68 authorized the Secretary of the State’s Office to distribute funds to
municipalities for costs associated with implementing and administering early voting.
Each town in the state will receive at least $5,000 for these costs. Towns must report
expenditures within 30 days of fully expending funds, and no later than June 30, 2027.
6. Fiscal Impact:
Simsbury is estimated to receive $17,492.25 from this grant.
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
None h15
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Authorize the Town Manager to Apply for the Simsbury
Community Fund Grant
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager; Lisa Miceli, Library Director
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support applying for a grant to provide programs and resources for
seniors experiencing dementia and cognitive impairment, and their caregivers, the
following motion is in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to submit the Simsbury Community Fund grant
application and authorize Town Manager Marc Nelson to execute the grant application.
In the event that the grant is awarded, the following additional motions are in order:
Move, to accept the grant and authorize Town Manager Marc Nelson to execute all
documents related to the grant award.
Further move, to appropriate the grant’s funds and recommend said appropriation to the
Board of Finance.
5. Summary of Submission:
The purpose of providing the Community and Conversation programs and resources is
to support community members experiencing dementia or cognitive impairment and their
caregivers. The Simsbury Public Library will be partnering with the Simsbury Aging and
Disability Commission, the Simsbury Senior Center, and Skybrooke Simsbury on this
project.
This project is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections among older adults and
addresses an important community need by promoting mental well-being, reducing
loneliness, encouraging social engagement, and empowering seniors to remain active
and connected.
The Library will provide the entire Reading2Connect book collection, to be used in both
programming and be available for community borrowing. The books are specifically
designed for those with dementia or cognitive impairment to be used individually or in
group settings. The Library will also provide sewing cards and conversation cards, also16
specifically designed for those with dementia or cognitive impairment, to be used in
programing and available for borrowing.
Programs which foster engagement and interaction will be held on a monthly basis for
those experiencing dementia or cognitive impairment and their caregivers. The location
of programs will rotate between the Library, Senior Center and Skybrooke Simsbury. As
staff facilitate programs, the caregivers will be provided a time for fellowship and support
among themselves.
Over the past year, the Library has received requests from residents to provide these
resources for older adults. Results from the Simsbury Public Library’s Strategic Planning
Survey also indicated the community’s wish for the Library to provide a place and
opportunities for connection and engagement.
6. Fiscal Impact:
This grant allows funding for the program and resources outlined above in the amount
of $3,925 and includes: the entire 60 book Reading2Connect collection, training for its
use, 6 sets of sewing cards for seniors and those with cognitive impairment, 6 boxes of
conversation cards for seniors and those with cognitive impairment, and four 36 by 36-
inch folding tables to be used in programming. Staff from the Simsbury Public Library,
Simsbury Senior Center and Skybrooke Simsbury will be trained to facilitate group
programming with the Reading2Connect books.
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Partnership Letter: Simsbury Aging & Disability Commission
b) Partnership Letter: Simsbury Senior Center
c) Partnership Letter: Skybrooke Simsbury17
Town of Simsbury
754 HOPMEADOW STREET P.O. BOX 495 SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
Aging and Disability Commission
Telephone (860) 651-9161
Facsimile (860) 408-7046
kmarschall@simsbury-ct.gov
www.simsbury-ct.gov
An Equal Opportunity Employer
8:30 - 4:30 Monday through Friday
24 July 2026
Simsbury Community Fund Committee
Dear Selection Committee:
The Town of Simsbury Aging and Disability Commission is very pleased to support the
proposed Simsbury Public Library program dedicated to fostering meaningful connections
among older adults. This initiative addresses an important community need by promoting mental
well-being, reducing loneliness, encouraging social engagement, and empowering seniors to
remain active and connected.
The Simsbury Public Library is a trusted community gathering place that is uniquely positioned
to bring people together regardless of background or income. Investing in programs that
strengthen senior connections will improve quality of life, support positive mental health, and
build a more inclusive and compassionate community.
The Simsbury Aging and Disability Commission supports this proposal and believes it will have
a lasting, positive impact on the lives of older adults. Thank you for your consideration and for
your commitment to creating opportunities that help seniors feel connected, valued and
empowered.
Sincerely,
Edward J. LaMontagne
Edward J. LaMontagne
Chairman
Town of Simsbury
Aging and Disability Commission18
Marc S. Nelson, MPA Kristen Formanek, LCSW
Town Manager Director
Community and Social Services
754 Hopmeadow St. Mon. (8:30-7:00) Tel. (860) 658-3283
Simsbury, CT 06070 Tue. Wed. Thu. (8:30-4:30) Fax. (860) 408-7046
simsbury-ct.gov/social-services Fri. (8:30-1:00) kformanek@simsbury-ct.gov
July 27, 2026
Simsbury Community Fund Committee
Dear Grant Review Committee:
I am writing to strongly support the grant application submitted by Simsbury
Public Library expanding services and programs for older adults with cognitive
issues and their caregivers.
This initiative will provide vital cognitive engagement, reduce loneliness and
provide caregiver relief.
As the Coordinator of the Simsbury Senior Center, I have collaborated with
Simsbury Public Library for many years on older adult support programs and
have seen firsthand the positive difference they make in the lives of participants.
The Simsbury Senior Center is fully committed to partnering on this initiative by
providing space, promoting programs and offering resources as needed.
I have full confidence in Simsbury Public Library’s leadership, capacity and
dedication to seeing this initiative succeed.
Best regards,
Kathleen Marschall
Kathleen Marschall
Senior Center Coordinator19
Simsbury Community Fund Committee
Dear Members of the Simsbury Community Fund Committee,
On behalf of Skybrooke at Simsbury, I am pleased to offer our enthusiastic support for the
Simsbury Public Library's grant application for the READING2CONNECT program.
At Skybrooke, we witness every day the profound impact that meaningful engagement has on
the lives of older adults, including those living with cognitive impairment. Reading has the
unique ability to spark memories, encourage conversation, reduce feelings of isolation, and
provide comfort and enjoyment. Unfortunately, many traditional reading formats become
difficult for individuals as cognitive changes progress. READING2CONNECT offers an innovative
and compassionate solution by making literature more accessible through adaptive books and
reading supports.
We are especially excited by the program's vision of creating opportunities for small group
reading experiences that foster social connection while also providing caregivers with
meaningful respite. These types of programs align closely with our mission to enrich the lives of
older adults through purposeful engagement, lifelong learning, and community partnerships.
We would welcome the opportunity to partner with the Simsbury Public Library by hosting
READING2CONNECT sessions at Skybrooke, bringing these valuable resources directly to our
residents. We believe this collaboration would greatly enhance the quality of life for
participants and strengthen connections between our community and one of Simsbury's most
treasured institutions.
We wholeheartedly support the Simsbury Public Library's request for funding and encourage
the Simsbury Community Fund Committee to give this project your full consideration. Thank
you for your commitment to supporting programs that improve the well-being of our
community members.
Sincerely,
Amber Corr
Resident Engagement Director
Skybrooke at Simsbury20
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Schedule a Public Hearing to Receive Public Comment
Regarding Adopting Two Local Options Allowed by
Connecticut Public Act No. 25-168
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager; Amy Meriwether, Finance Director-Treasurer; Francine
Beland, Assessor
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support scheduling a public hearing to receive public comment regarding
adopting two local options allowed by Connecticut Public Act No. 25-168, the following
motion is in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to schedule a public hearing on adopting two local
options allowed by Connecticut Public Act No. 25-168 for 6:00 P.M. on Monday,
September 14, 2026.
5. Summary of Submission:
The Town of Simsbury is required by Connecticut law to provide a mandatory property
tax exemption for veterans whom the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
has determined to have a 100 percent permanent and total (P&T) service-connected
disability. Eligibility for this mandatory exemption is based on the VA's disability rating
determination.
The VA also recognizes certain veterans as totally disabled due to Individual
Unemployability (TDIU). Although these veterans are considered totally disabled by the
VA because their service-connected disabilities prevent them from maintaining
substantially gainful employment, they do not automatically qualify for the mandatory
exemption established under Connecticut law.
Instead, the General Assembly authorized municipalities to determine locally whether to
extend the exemption to veterans receiving TDIU benefits. A municipality may do so by
adopting a local ordinance that expands eligibility beyond the minimum requirements
established by state law.
If the Town of Simsbury elects to adopt the above provision, it would have the following
fiscal impact on the upcoming fiscal year 2027/2028 budget:21
Current Law
o Property Assessment Exemptions: $11,200,000
o Tax Revenue Loss: $380,000
o Total Vets Qualified = 50
Addition of Local Option (including TDIU)
o Estimated Property Assessment Exemptions: $12,750,000
o Estimated Tax Revenue Loss: $434,000*
o Estimated Total Vets Qualified = 58
In addition to the TDIU option, the General Assembly authorized municipalities to adopt
other optional provisions by local ordinance. These include extending the exemption to
cover up to two acres of land associated with the qualifying residence, expanding
eligibility to certain surviving spouses, or limiting the exemption to the municipality's
median assessed residential property value.
If the Town of Simsbury elects to adopt the above provisions, it would have the following
fiscal impact on the upcoming fiscal year 2027/2028 budget:
Addition of Local Option including TDIU & Median Assessed Residential Property
Value
o Estimated Property Assessment Exemptions: $11,000,000
o Estimated Tax Revenue Loss: $374,000*
o Estimated Total Vets Qualified = 58
Addition of Local Option including TDIU, Median Assessed Residential Property
Value & Two Acres of Land
o Estimated Property Assessment Exemptions: $15,500,000
o Estimated Tax Revenue Loss: $527,000*
o Estimated Total Vets Qualified = 58
*Dollar values are only projections for FY2027/2028 as Veterans have until January 1st
to submit applications for tax relief.
Note: The legislation does allow for retroactive implementation of the local ordinances,
however, management recommends against this as those budgets have already been
completed and would need to be adjusted based on the updated ordinances.
6. Fiscal Impact:
Included in the above narrative.
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Connecticut Public Act No. 25-16822
House Bill No. 7287
Public Act No. 25-168
Sec. 240. (NEW) (Effective October 1, 2025) (a) Any municipality, upon approval
by its legislative body, may provide that, in lieu of the exemption prescribed
under subdivision (20) of section 12-81 of the general statutes, any resident of
this state who has served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air
Force or Space Force of the United States and has been determined by the United
States Department of Veterans Affairs to have a service-connected total disability
based on individual unemployability shall be entitled to an exemption from
property tax on (1) that fractional share of a dwelling, including a condominium,
as defined in section 47-68a of the general statutes, a unit in a common interest
community, as defined in section 47-202 of the general statutes, and a mobile
manufactured home, as defined in section 12-63a of the general statutes, (A) that
belongs to or is held in trust for such resident, or that is possessed by such a
resident as a tenant for life or tenant for a term of years liable for property tax
under section 12-48 of the general statutes, and (B) that is occupied by such
resident as the resident's primary residence, or (2) lacking such residence, one
motor vehicle that belongs to or is held in trust for such resident and is garaged in
this state. As used in this subsection, "dwelling" does not include any portion of
the unit or structure used by such resident for commercial purposes or from
which such resident derives any rental income.
(b) If such resident lacks such dwelling or motor vehicle in such resident's
name, the dwelling or motor vehicle, as applicable, belonging to or held in trust
for such resident's spouse, or possessed by such resident's spouse as a tenant for
life or tenant for a term of years liable for property tax under section 12-48 of
the general statutes, who is domiciled with such resident, shall be so exempt.
When any resident entitled to an exemption under the provisions of this section
has died, the dwelling or motor vehicle, as applicable, belonging to or held in trust
for such deceased resident's surviving spouse, or possessed by such deceased
resident's surviving spouse as a tenant for life or tenant for a term of years liable
for property tax under section 12-48 of the general statutes, while such spouse
remains a widow or widower, or belonging to or held in trust for such deceased
resident's minor children during their minority, or both, while they are residents
of this state, shall be so exempt as that to which such resident was or would have
been entitled at the time of such resident's death.23
(c) No individual entitled to the exemption under this section and under one
or more of subdivisions (19), (22), (23), (25) and (26) of section 12-81 of the general
statutes or section 241 of this act shall receive more than one exemption.
(d) (1) No individual shall receive any exemption to which such individual is
entitled under this section until such individual has complied with section 12-
95 of the general statutes and has submitted proof of such individual's
determination by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, to the
assessor of the town in which the
exemption is sought. If there is no change to an individual's
determination, such proof shall not be required for any assessment year
following that for which the exemption under this section is granted initially. If
the United States Department of Veterans Affairs modifies an individual's
determination to other than a service-connected total disability based on
individual unemployability, such modification shall be deemed a waiver of the
right to the exemption under this section. Any such individual whose
determination was modified to other than a
service-connected total disability based on individual unemployability
may seek the exemption under subdivision (20) or (83) of section 12-81 of the
general statutes, as applicable.
(2) Any individual who has been unable to submit evidence of such
determination by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in the
manner required by this section, or who has failed to submit such evidence as
provided in section 12-95 of the general statutes, may, when such individual
obtains such evidence, make application to the tax
collector not later than one year after such individual obtains such proof
or not later than one year after the expiration of the time limited in section 12-
95 of the general statutes, as the case may be, for abatement in case the tax has
not been paid, or for refund in case the whole tax or part of the tax has been paid.
Such abatement or refund may be granted retroactively to include the
assessment day next succeeding the date as of which such individual was
entitled to such determination by the United States Department of Veterans
Affairs, but in no case shall any abatement or refund be made for a period
greater than three years.
(3) The tax collector shall, after examination of such application, refer the same,
with the tax collector's recommendations thereon, to the board of selectmen of a24
town or to the corresponding authority of any other municipality, and shall
certify to the amount of abatement or refund to which the applicant is entitled.
Upon receipt of such application and
certification, the selectmen or other duly constituted authority shall, in
case the tax has not been paid, issue a certificate of abatement or, in case the
whole tax or part of the tax has been paid, draw an order upon the treasurer in
favor of such applicant for such amount, without interest. Any action so taken
by such selectmen or other authority shall be a matter of record and the tax
collector shall be notified in writing of such action.
(e) (1) In any municipality that provides the exemption under subsections (a)
to (d), inclusive, of this section, such municipality may, upon approval by its
legislative body, further provide that, for any individual receiving the
exemption under said subsections for a dwelling described in subdivision (1) of
subsection (a) of this section, not more than two acres of the lot upon which such
dwelling sits shall be exempt from taxation.
(2) In any municipality that provides the exemption under subsections (a) to
(d), inclusive, of this section, such municipality may, upon approval of its
legislative body, further provide that the surviving
spouse of any resident of this state who (A) had served in the Army,
Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force or Space Force of the United States,
(B) had been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to
have a service-connected total disability based on individual unemployability,
and (C) died prior to October 1, 2025, but after a date to be determined by such
legislative body, shall, while such spouse remains a widow or widower, be
entitled to the exemption under this section.
(3) In any municipality that provides the exemption or exemptions under this
section, such municipality may, upon approval of its legislative body, limit the
total amount of the exemption or exemptions granted under this section to the
median assessed valuation of residential real property in such municipality.25
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Authorize the Town Manager to Engage with Efficient
Lighting & Maintenance Inc. Regarding
Implementation of the New England Smart Energy
Group, LLC Master Agreement
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager on behalf of the Simsbury Sustainability Committee
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support engaging with Efficient Lighting & Maintenance Inc. to support
business programming that promotes energy efficiency and increased renewable
energy use, the following motion would be in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to authorize Town Manager Marc Nelson to engage with
Efficient Lighting & Maintenance Inc. for the purpose of Simsbury business outreach and
marketing support related to the New England Smart Energy Group, LLC Master
Agreement.
5. Summary of Submission:
At your March 23, 2026 regular meeting, the Selectmen authorized me to execute an
agreement and collaborate with New England Smart Energy (NESE), to conduct outreach
to residential property owners to inform them about the benefits of the EnergizeCT
Program.
Public participation has been going extremely well with eight property owners signing up
for Home Energy Assessments as of July 15th (NESE provides updates every month; next
update expected August 15th) since data tracking began on June 15, 2026.
The Sustainability Committee would like to expand the outreach to include local
businesses, which will require this separate authorization due to the fact that a different
authorized vendor will manage the commercial and retail spaces.
For background, on October 15, 2025, the Board unanimously endorsed the Sustainability
Committee’s Sustainability Plan (Part 1: Energy) with the major themes of promoting
community awareness of sustainability programs, energy audits, and improving business
energy efficiency through the adoption of renewable energy strategies. According to the
EnergizeCT Municipal Energy Dashboard, approximately 34% of Simsbury businesses
have participated in a utility-run efficiency program since 2010.26
The proposed engagement with Efficient Lighting & Maintenance Inc. (EL&M) is a direct,
no-cost-to-the-Town mechanism to begin closing that gap. The Town will collaborate with
EL&M to receive marketing and outreach support and Simsbury businesses will receive
energy assessments, at no cost to the Town.
6. Fiscal Impact:
No direct cost, however some staff resources are assisting in this initiative, including
Cyn Thomas our new part-time Business Development Coordinator.
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Draft EL&M Letter to Simsbury Businesses27
OFFICE OF THE
TOWN MANAGER
www.simsbury-ct.gov Mon. (8:30 AM - 7:00 PM) Tel. (860) 658-3230
933 Hopmeadow Street Tue. Wed. Thu. (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM) Fax. (860) 658-9467
Simsbury, CT 06070 Fri. (8:30 AM - 1:00 PM) townmanager@simsbury-ct.gov
Dear Simsbury Business Community,
The Sustainability Committee is an appointed board/commission of the Town of Simsbury and
Simsbury Public Schools, supported by the Town Manager’s Office.
For residents, the Sustainability Committee has partnered with New England Smart Energy,
bringing low-cost home energy audits. For the business community, the Committee is proud to
partner with Efficient Lighting & Maintenance Inc (EL&M) to help Simsbury businesses
participate in Energize Connecticut’s Small Business Energy Advantage (SBEA) program.
Simsbury businesses may use EL&M as a contractor or choose another authorized contractor at
www.EnergizeCT.com/FindAContractor. EL&M has been a utility-authorized contractor for
SBEA assessments for over 26 years. EL&M will identify ways to reduce your energy
consumption, save money, and improve the health, safety, and comfort of your business.
The Committee encourages you to consider scheduling an assessment. There is no cost for an
assessment. EL&M will need a copy of your utility bills for one month to start the process. EL&M
will conduct the assessment and submit the recommendations to the Utility. The Utility offers
robust incentives for energy upgrades. The Utility will do the energy study to determine the
estimated savings of electricity, oil, or gas. They will then offer an incentive to do the suggested
work. EL&M will present this information to you, and if you choose to move forward, you would
just have to complete some minor paperwork.
The Utility offers 0% on bill financing for qualified customers. There is rarely an upfront cost to
do the project, but rather on-bill financing to cover the customer’s portion of the project costs.
EL&M offers a 2-year warranty on work performed and there are warranties by the manufacturers
of the materials as well. All materials used are certified by Eversource. If you did an upgrade
several years ago to your space, there still may be an opportunity.
To schedule an assessment, call Sara Doutney, EL&M Operations Manager, at (203) 794-7506 or
email at sarad@el-m.net. Thank you for your commitment to making Simsbury a cleaner,
healthier, and more energy-efficient place to live!
Sincerely,
Town Manager
On behalf of the Simsbury Sustainability Committee28
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Authorize the Town Manager to Apply for a 2026
Greyfield Revitalization Program Grant for 82
Hopmeadow Street
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager; Cyn Thomas, Business Development Coordinator
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support applying for the grant, the following motion is in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to submit the 2026 Greyfield Revitalization Program
Grant application and authorize Town Manager Marc Nelson to execute the grant
application.
In the event that the grant is awarded, the following additional motions are in order:
Move, to accept the grant and authorize Town Manager Marc Nelson to execute all
documents related to the grant award.
Further move, to appropriate the grant’s funds and recommend said appropriation to the
Board of Finance.
5. Summary of Submission:
A Greyfield is generally defined as previously developed commercial, retail, office, or
knowledge-work space or property that is no longer economically viable and has
significantly declined in use or occupancy. These sites are typically structurally sound but
outdated, underutilized, or mismatched with current market needs and pose significant
challenges to economic development, land use, and community revitalization. Unlike
brownfields, greyfields do not require major soil and groundwater cleanup; instead, their
challenges stem from long term vacancy, obsolete design, changing economic patterns,
or physical deterioration that makes redevelopment difficult. 82 Hopmeadow Street is the
parcel identified as most appropriate for this submission and we propose partnering with
the owner to present a compelling case for the award of up to $175,000 for this
“Assessment and Planning Grant”. There would be no cost to the Town and the owner
would be responsible for any cost overages beyond the award amount. Our State
Representative has had conversations with the Connecticut Department of Economic and
Community Development about the process and the applicability of this particular
property, and we have secured letters of support from both the Simsbury Main Street
Partnership and the Statewide Main Street organization.29
6. Fiscal Impact:
No direct cost, merely some staff time in preparation and submission and, if awarded,
grant administration.
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Copy of Grant Solicitation and submission cover letter30
Greyfield Revitalization Program
Planning and Assessment Grant Opportunity
Matthew Pugliese, Deputy Commissioner
Binu Chandy, Executive Director
Almariet Roberts, Programs Unit Supervisor (Applications)
Office of Community Development
Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development
June 15, 202631
Housekeeping Announcements
• Please remain on mute until the Q&A session.
• Meeting will be recorded
• The slide deck and presentation recording will be posted on the
Greyfield website (Greyfield Revitalization Program)
• Enter questions and comments into the Chat and they will
be answered at the end of the presentation during the Q&A
Housekeeping Announcements32
Program Overview33
What are “Greyfields?”
A Greyfield is generally defined as previously developed commercial,
retail, office, or knowledge-work space or property that is no longer
economically viable and has significantly declined in use or
occupancy.
These sites are typically structurally sound but outdated, underutilized,
or mismatched with current market needs and pose significant
challenges to economic development, land use planning, and
community revitalization.
Unlike brownfields, greyfields do not require major soil and
groundwater cleanup; instead, their challenges stem from long-term
vacancy, obsolete design, changing economic patterns, or physical
deterioration that makes redevelopment difficult.
What are “Greyfields?”34
Greyfields Revitalization Program
DECD’s new Greyfields Revitalization Program (GRP) helps facilitate the
repurposing of Greyfields
• DECD has issued an RFP for a consultant to help DECD design the
Program (consultant yet to be selected)
• Announcing the pilot round for the Planning & Assessment Grant
(GPA)
• Future opportunities: Implementation funding
Greyfields Revitalization Program35
Current Opportunity -
Greyfields Planning and Assessment Grant
• support early-stage planning, assessment, and feasibility work;
• encourage public-private partnerships; and
• ready the property/site for the next implementation phase.
• Total availability: $4 million
• Funding limits: $100 to $250K/application
• No restriction on number of applications from each eligible entity
• Larger municipalities (larger sites) – DECD funding discretion.
Current Opportunity:
Greyfields Planning and Assessment Grant36
Schedule and Opportunity Details37
Schedule
Schedule
Webinar and Office Hours
Webinar: Monday, June 15, (1 PM – 2 PM) Click HERE to join Teams on your computer or mobile app.
Or call in (audio only) +1 860-840-2075
Phone Conference ID: 194 952 63#
Office Hours: Thursdays 10 AM – 11 AM
June 25, July 9, July 16
Questions on the NOFA
Wed, July 8, 2026 Deadline for questions to DECD on this NOFA
Fri, July 10, 2026 Posting of FAQ Addendum (if any) on Greyfields Website
Application Deadline
Mon, August 3, 2026 Request for SharePoint folder (see Application Process)
Wed, August 5, 2026 (noon) Deadline to submit or upload Application Package
Award Announcement
September 2026 Award Announcements (tentative)38
Application Process
How to Apply
• Applicants are required to submit the Application through the application portal link
available on the GREYFIELDS PROGRAM WEBPAGE.
• Required attachments must be uploaded to a DECD SharePoint folder
• Applicants must request a SharePoint link by emailing decd.greyfields@ct.gov
• Include Applicant & Project Name and Program Code (GPA1) in subject line.
• Recommended to make folder request by noon on Monday, August 3, 2026
• An email will be sent to applicants to confirm receipt of the form and application
package
Due Date
Applications will be accepted until NOON on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
Application Process39
Eligible Applicants
Eligible Applicants
• Municipalities
• Municipal economic development agencies or corporations
• Regional Councils of Governments
• Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA)
• CT Municipal Development Authority (CMDA)
Developers or private property owners must partner with an eligible applicant40
Eligible Uses of Funds
(studies to help early-stage planning, assessment, and feasibility work)
Eligible Uses of Funds
• architectural and engineering assessment
• structural and building condition
assessments
• hazardous building material investigation
• Limited environmental site assessment to
rule out soil and groundwater contamination
• geotechnical investigation
• conceptual site plan alternatives
• sustainability and resilience strategy
• renovation or conversion construction
estimation
• planning or feasibility studies
• financial feasibility modeling
• economic resilience analysis
• infrastructure or utility assessments
• stormwater analysis
• traffic or multimodal assessments
• legal and title due diligence
• phasing plan feasibility
• reasonable administrative expenses (5% of
grant)41
Threshold Eligibility Requirements
Threshold Eligibility Requirements
• Satisfies Greyfields definition
• Currently commercial, retail, office, or knowledge-work space
(workforce training hubs or educational institutions)
• Redevelopment possible without significant soil and groundwater
remediation (Please note: Funding can be used to investigate hazardous
building materials that were used in accordance with the State Building Code when
the structure was constructed)
• NOT receiving funds for environmental cleanup under a DECD
Program
• Proof of site access/control
• Vacancy > 25%.
• Square footage > 7,500 square feet42
Application Review and
Award Criteria
Application Review and Award Criteria
The following criteria will be used to score the applications (these are not
threshold requirements)
• Clarity of planning & assessment needs.
• Economic & community development impact.
• Locational benefits (TOD, distressed, hubs).
• Developer interest & external support.
• Zoning & POCD alignment.
• Applicant experience.43
Application Overview
• Part A - Section I & II (Eligibility Criteria)
• Basic Application Questions
• Don’t forget your FEIN#
• Part B - Section I (Project Details)
• This gives us the full explanation of the project
• Please read all the instructions
• Note: There will be multi-part questions from time to time – Please tell us
as much as you can based on what you know
• Budget
• List Other Sources (Not just DECD)
• Provide a snapshot of what you are requesting funds for
• Not mandatory to have any preliminary assessments or cost estimates,
but please include, if available
• You may not know anything at this point – That is OK!!
Application Overview44
Project Examples45
Greyfield Project Example #1
The site is a former 20,000 sq. ft. office
building in the Town of Pizzaz (ToP), CT,
built in the 50s has been fully vacant since
COVID. The new telework culture has not
helped and the property owner and the
Town’s ED Director are working towards
identifying an end use. The former uses of
the site and the Phase I Environmental Site
Assessment do not indicate any soil or
ground-water contamination. The Town of
Pizzaz is partnering with the property
owner and is applying to the GPA Grant
Round to conduct hazardous building
material investigation, renovation
estimation and conversion feasibility
analyses.
Would this site and project be eligible?
• Yes
• Generally satisfies the Greyfields
definition
• Office use
• No below-surface contamination
concerns
• >25% vacancy rate
• >7,500 sq ft., and
• There is site access
Greyfield Project Example #146
Greyfield Project Example #2
The site is a former 5,000 sq. ft. office
building in the Town of Pizzaz (ToP), CT,
built in the 50s has been fully vacant
since COVID. The new telework culture has
not helped and the property owner and
the Town’s ED Director are working
towards identifying an end use. The former
uses of the site and the Phase I
Environmental Site Assessment do not
indicate any soil or ground-water
contamination. The Town of Pizzaz is
partnering with the property owner and is
applying to the GPA Grant Round to
conduct hazardous building material
investigation, renovation estimation and
conversion feasibility analyses.
Would this site and project be eligible?
• No
• Threshold requirement for the
program is that the property
should be >7,500 sq ft.
Greyfield Project Example #247
Greyfield Project Example #3
The site is a former 20,000 sq. ft. office
building in the Town of Pizzaz (ToP), CT,
built in the 50s has a 15% vacancy rate.
The property owners are anxious that
given the trend the vacancy rate is going
to worsen. They are exploring all
marketing strategies to reduce the
vacancy rate. The property owner saw the
greyfields announcement and contacted
the Town’s ED Director to explore the
possibility of submitting an application for
some market demand and strategy
studies.
Would this site and project be eligible?
• No
• The threshold requirement for the
program is that the property
should be at least 25% vacant.
Greyfield Project Example #348
Greyfield Project Example #4
The site is a former 20,000 sq. ft. office
building in the Town of Pizzaz (ToP), CT,
built in the 50s has been fully vacant
since COVID. The new property owners
acquired the property in a bankruptcy
sale. Taxes are being paid but they are
not motivated to rush into
redeveloping the property. They are
waiting for the market to change. In
the meantime, the building is getting
shabbier and is an eyesore and a
reminder of the tough economic times.
The ToP’s ED would like to submit an
application for this Greyfield property to
conduct a Phase I ESA and Hazardous
Building Material Investigation. But the
new property owners will not give
access.
Would this site and project be eligible?
• No
• The Town does not have site
access to demonstrate that
they can enter the property
and conduct the studies.
Greyfield Project Example #449
Greyfield Project Example #5
The site is a former 20,000 sq. ft. office
building in the Town of Pizzaz (ToP), CT,
built in the 50s has been fully vacant
since COVID. The current property owners
have not been paying their taxes and the
ToP is considering a tax lien foreclosure.
This has been affecting ToP’s tax base.
The property has been abandoned, the
building is an eyesore, is attracting
homeless occupation and vandalism;
thus becoming a public safety threat. The
ToP’s ED would like to submit an
application for this Greyfield property to
conduct structural investigations, inspect
the site and anything that is allowable
under its municipal rights.
Would this site and project be eligible?
• Maybe
• The Town maybe eligible
provided it demonstrates that it
has the authority to enter the
property, inspect and conduct
such studies.
Greyfield Project Example #550
Greyfield Project Example #6
The site is a former 20,000 sq. ft. office
building in the Town of Pizzaz (ToP), CT,
built in the 50s has been fully vacant
since COVID. The new telework culture
has not helped and the property owner
and the Town’s ED Director are working
towards identifying an end use. The Phase
I Environmental Site Assessment
identifies former contaminating uses –
no records exist to indicate that they were
remediated. There are also visual
indications to suspect areas of concern
on the property. The project could be
eligible for DECD’s Brownfield Program.
Would this site and project be eligible
under the Greyfields Revitalization
Program?
• No
• Although this appears to satisfy
the Greyfield definition at first
glance – there is indication of
potential soil and G/W
contamination.
• The ToP should look into applying
for DECD’s Brownfield Program
instead.
Greyfield Project Example #651
Greyfield Project Example #7
The site is a former school building (>7,500
sq. ft) owned by the Town of Pizzaz that has
been fully vacant since 2020. The Phase 1
indicates asbestos and lead paint, universal
waste (lightbulbs and mercury
thermometers). There is also an
Underground Storage Tank (UST) on the
property – there are no documented spills
or leaks or any soil or groundwater
concerns. The Town’s ED Director is applying
to the GPA Grant Round to conduct
hazardous building material investigation,
renovation estimation and conversion
feasibility analyses.
Would this site and project be eligible?
Yes
• Use – Knowledge work space
(workforce training hubs or educational
institutions)
• Although eligible for DECD’s Brownfield
Program does not have significant
below-surface contamination
concerns
• Above-ground issues are eligible:
hazardous building materials (such as
asbestos-containing material, PCB-
containing caulk, lead paint/piping,
etc.) that were used in accordance with
the State Building Code when the
structure was constructed and
presence of universal waste.
Greyfield Project Example #752
Greyfield Project Example #8
The site is an old residential multi-family
housing complex (>7,500 sq. ft) with limited
investigation but no soil or groundwater
concerns. The site is currently vacant. The
City is interested in revitalizing this property.
The Town’s ED Director is applying to the
GPA Grant Round to conduct hazardous
building material investigation, renovation
estimation and conversion feasibility
analyses.
Would this site and project be eligible?
No
• This site was not formerly used as a
commercial, retail, office, or
knowledge-work space, so it will not
qualify for the Greyfields Program.
• This could qualify for DECD’s Brownfield
Program.
• Visit the Brownfields Redevelopment
website or contact brownfields@ct.gov
for more information about future
funding rounds.
Greyfield Project Example #853
Greyfield Project Example #9
The site is a former vacant strip mall
(>7,500 sq. ft.) in the Town of Pizzaz
(ToP), that is vacant. One of the former
tenants was a dry-cleaning facility,
which resulted in soil contamination.
The property owner and the Town’s ED
Director are working towards identifying
an end use.
Would this site and project be eligible?
• No
• Strip Mall (commercial/retail)
is an eligible land use under
the GRP Program
• But there are below surface
contamination concerns
• Better suited to apply to
DECD’s Brownfield Program
• Visit the Brownfields
Redevelopment website or
contact brownfields@ct.gov
for more information about
future funding rounds.
Greyfield Project Example #954
Questions55
FAQ Document and Addendum
• FAQ document – great resource
• Available on the Greyfield website
• Will be updated with addendum on Friday, July 10, 2026
Questions56
Questions
There are many similarities between the Greyfields and
Brownfields Programs– how can one distinguish between the
two? (FAQ #5)
• Brownfields – not economically viable due to significant building and
below ground contamination; Greyfields – primarily not economically
viable due to market shifts – there may be building contamination due
to age of buildings and material usage when constructed.
• If the preliminary environmental investigation does not identify need for
soil or groundwater remediation (with the exception of limited cleanup
of a single-occurrence leak or spill.): Application better fit for Greyfields
• Sites enrolled in the Transfer Act, Superfund Program, or any voluntary
cleanup programs at the state or federal level are not eligible for the
Greyfields Program.
• Projects that have received funding through DECD’s Brownfields
Program are not eligible for Greyfields Funding (Exception of BAR
Planning and Assessment-Only grants).
Questions57
Questions
Is a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment report mandatory?
(FAQ #24)
• No, a Phase I is not mandatory but will be helpful for applications that want to
justify that the project does not have soil or groundwater contamination issues
and thus, is not characterized as a typical “brownfield.”
Questions58
Questions
What constitutes proof of access to the site, site control, or path to
site control? (FAQ #7)
• If applicant is not property owner - must be able to demonstrate that they can
enter the site and complete the project scope
• An Access Agreement, MOU, or other documentation must be provided prior to
the grant contract closing to ensure that site access is guaranteed for the
duration of the project.
• All documents prepared using the funds will be the property of the state and are
subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Questions59
Questions
There are a number of questions in the Application especially Part B
that suggest that there is an expectation for projects to have
progressed in their path towards their Greyfield redevelopment?
(FAQ #8 and 9)
• DECD understands that proposed projects will be at different stages of maturity.
• We are looking for the best available information for the project to understand
project need and merits.
• Projects may be conceptual or more fully developed; both are welcome.
Applications with limited information at this time will not be penalized in the
evaluation or consideration for funding.
• However, projects that are more shovel-ready or advanced may fare better in
the competitive scoring process.
• Please answer all questions to the best of your ability for higher scoring.
Questions60
Questions
Will DECD only be funding projects within a particular area or district
(for example, a distressed municipality, opportunity zone, transit-
oriented development area, downtown, or regional/state district or
hub)? (FAQ #10, 11 and 12)
• No, DECD will not be only funding projects within a particular area or district.
• Responses will be used for comparative scoring
• Please visit the FAQ document for definitions of various districts and hubs, as
well as additional resources.
Questions61
Questions
Does the Application have to identify the targeted end use? (FAQ #14)
• A successful application is not dependent on having a finalized end use or a
confirmed redevelopment outcome.
• If an end use has been considered and early planning work has begun,
demonstrating a credible path toward redevelopment can help strengthen the
overall competitiveness of the application.
• DECD is also encouraging all efforts to support the highest and best end use
that maximizes economic and community benefit and state policies to foster
housing growth.
Questions62
Questions
Do you anticipate that there will be another round in the near future?
(FAQ #23)
• The Greyfields Planning and Assessment funding opportunity is a pilot round. A
future round has not been finalized but will be decided based on the demand
and success of the pilot round, and funding availability.
Questions63
Questions
Are matching funds required? (FAQ #30)
• No, matching funds are not required/mandatory for this opportunity. However,
any additional participation or leverage will make the application more
competitive.
Questions64
Post-funding Review Process65
Post-Funding Award Process
• The project will be assigned a Project Manager as the primary point of contact
• All reports/project deliverables property of DECD/State (accessible by the public)
Process
• Financial Assistance Proposal (Layman terms of DECD contract)
• Kick-off Meeting
• Assistance Agreement/DECD Contract
• Internal set-up for grant drawdown process
• Consultant Procurement
• Project Implementation
• Project Closing (two-year period for Planning and Assessment projects)
Post-Funding Award Process (GRP)66
• Meeting is recorded
• The slide deck and presentation recording will be
posted on the Greyfield website (Greyfield Revitalization
Program)
• FAQ document will be updated with addendum on Friday,
July 10.
• Request for a SharePoint folder by Monday, August 3
• Application deadline is Wed, August 5 (noon)
Reminders
Reminders67
For additional questions or to
arrange for a pre-application
meeting:
Please send email to
decd.greyfields@ct.gov (preferred)
Contact the dedicated Greyfield
hotline number at 860-500-2395
Visit the Greyfield Website to
access the Application material:
Greyfield Revitalization Program –
Planning & Assessment Grant68
Thank you
for joining
us!69
70
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Review and Adopt the Board of Selectmen Goals for
the 2025-27 Term of Office
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Wendy Mackstutis, First Selectman
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support adopting their goals for the 2025 – 2027 Term, the following
motion is in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026 to adopt the Board of Selectmen goals for the 2025 –
2027 term as presented.
5. Summary of Submission:
The Board of Selectmen reviewed the attached PowerPoint at our last meeting and
reached consensus on the items we wanted to include as our goals and tasks. We plan
to focus on these for the remainder of this term, as most are achievable and, at a
minimum, can be started.
The summary of the final prioritized goals is included in the worksheet to make tonight’s
review easier.
Once they are approved, we will combine them with the high-level descriptions from the
PowerPoint and create a final, more formal document to be posted on our website.
6. Fiscal Impact:
None
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) BOS 2026 Goal Spreadsheet for Review
b) BOS Goal PowerPoint from the July 13th meeting71
Goal Review and Approval - Summary
Category Overview Priority
Municipal Facilities & Community Assets Develop a long-term strategy for utilization of Town-owned facilities and account for accessibility, ongoing maintenance.
Ensures long-term use of municipal assets and aligns investments with community needs.
1
Economic Development & Grand List GrowthExpands tax base, supports businesses, and reduces pressure on residential taxpayers. Improves coordination among
economic development partners. Supports economic activity and community identity.
1
Governance (Elected) Ensures policies remain current and effective. Strengthen governance and Board processes. Brings current out-of-date
laws and adds needed policies.
1
Government Operations/Financial SustainabilityModernize municipal operations and organizational excellence. Supports recruitment, retention, and succession planning.
Strengthens trust and resident participation. Reduces costs and improves service
1
Public Safety, Sustainability & Community ServicesEnsure sustainable public safety and community services. Addresses needs of an aging population and vulnerable
residents.
1
Housing, Land Use & Open Space Balance housing opportunities with preservation of open space. Weighs housing needs with infrastructure and community
character.
1
Category Goal/Task Level
Municipal Facilities & Community Assets Revisit the Tecton Master Plan for town buildings that was done a few years back as a starting point 1
Municipal Facilities & Community Assets Focus on Eno, but need to have supporting location to house Senior Center/Social Services 1
Municipal Facilities & Community Assets Consideration of Apple Barn for community use to support activities (as we submit grant application for 300K from the state) 1
Economic Development & Grand List Growth Brainstorm and determine structure for the optimal use of the economic development resources (above) 1
Economic Development & Grand List Growth Bring the abatement policy to the table – as requested by the SHPAC and also needed because the current one is out of date. 1
Economic Development & Grand List Growth Revisit Main Street MOU in June 2027 2
Economic Development & Grand List Growth Update – estimate for enhanced/replaced town signage – funding? Tville plan? 2
Economic Development & Grand List Growth Discuss initiation of an Arts Council – policy, resolution, look at other towns, hearing? 2
Governance (Elected) Charter implementation January 2027 1
Governance (Elected) Update Ordinances – get town’s priorities 1
Governance (Elected) Update Policies – town recommended if outdated 1
Governance (Elected) Introduce New Policies (from other goals that require a policy as identified, and any others) 1
Governance (Elected) Appointments – Party designation/Path/Procedures to a board and commission 2
Government Operations/Financial Sustainability Shared Services Expansion (happening anyway for some, but paving, buildings, maintenance? (we do vehicles) 2
Government Operations/Financial Sustainability Performance metrics – software budget? 2
Government Operations/Financial Sustainability Standardize communications from TM Office (ask was to reword last item above) 1
Government Operations/Financial Sustainability Continue focus on 5-year CIP and capital Priorities 1
Government Operations/Financial Sustainability Town to provide high priority maintainance and infrastructure items – then we can move to items that support town policy and resident needs 1
Government Operations/Financial Sustainability Alternative Revenue Streams 2
Public Safety, Sustainability & Community Services SVAA Strategy and MOU renewal options 1
Public Safety, Sustainability & Community Services Rooftop Solar – Latimer Lane, High School, explore other options (Performing Arts Center Next Act addition) 1
Housing, Land Use & Open Space Educate the Public on the State laws (830-g) and Board and Commission Roles (hold a forum?) 1
Housing, Land Use & Open Space Follow up on any SHPAC items left open – Eno Farms/CHFA – others being done by Zoning regulartions? 2
Housing, Land Use & Open Space Open Space Position – Policy form BOS (add to policy list) 272
Board of Selectmen
Goal Planning for
Remainder of 2025-2027 term
Discussion Framework73
Objectives for Tonight
• Quick overview of accomplishments/In Progress/Not done
• Agree on strategic themes
• Discuss action items under each theme
• Develop framework for final Goals document74
Completed from 2023-2025 goal list
Action Item - From our Goals Goal Category - From our Goals
Begin Charter and Completed mandated review Charter Review
Moved the DEI Council's partnership from the Department of
Social Services
to the Town Manager's Office
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Increased grant revenue to the Town and key partners Funding & Revenue Sources
Establish uses for opioid settlement funds Funding & Revenue Sources
Implement recommendations of classification & compensation
study and
ratify fair and reasonable successor collective bargaining
agreements
General Government
Establish the Simsbury Housing Policy Advisory Committee and
implement recommendations (in progress)
Housing
Create agreement with SVAA with benchmarks and goals Public Safety, Community Health & Quality
of Life
Upgrade website to improve access to town services Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Improve Town technological capabilities and security Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Implement ClearGov budget books Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Create Disaster Recovery/Cyber Disaster Plan Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Establish updates on capital projects and streamline RFP process Technology, Transparency & Efficiency75
Action Item - From our Goals Goal Category - From our Goals
Clarify charge and survey objective of DEI Council Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Grow the grand list by attracting and retaining local business Economic Development
Create Business Development Plan with external stakeholders and
public input
Economic Development
Build stronger partnerships to promote tourism and grow visitors Economic Development
Review tax benefit opportunities Economic Development
Design targeted approaches to improve economic development Economic Development
Improve and enhance Town grant writing capabilities Funding & Revenue Sources
Engage in long range capital planning between BOS and BOE General Government
Encourage smart growth to support housing options at all price
points
Housing
Consolidate ongoing work within the housing policy space Housing
Enhance services for seniors Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Install additional EV chargers Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Boost public engagement and support volunteer community Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
In progress from 2023-2025 goal list76
Action Item from Goals Goal Category
Renew exploration of construction (or acquisition) of new intergenerational
community center and potential synergies with new police facility and
establish timeline
Public Safety, Community
Health & Quality of Life
Maintain social services while seeking program efficiencies and
enhancement
Public Safety, Community
Health & Quality of Life
Establish "performance metrics" in order to create a data-driven decision-
making process within Town government
General Government
Have the Town Manager establish a succession plan for Town leadership
positions
General Government
Not Started from 2023-2025 goal list77
Municipal Facilities & Community Assets
Develop a long-term strategy for utilization of Town-owned
facilities and account for accessibility, ongoing maintenance.
Ensures long-term use of municipal assets and aligns
investments with community needs.
• Discussion Items/Tasks:
___Start with existing building strategy from past boards
___Eno Memorial Hall
___Apple Barn, Community Center
___Social Services and Senior Center location
___Town Hall, Police Department78
Economic Development & Grand List Growth
Expands tax base, supports businesses, and reduces pressure on
residential taxpayers. Improves coordination among economic
development partners. Supports economic activity and
community identity.
___Tax incentives – Abatement policy (SHPAC/Update exisiting)
___Org Chart – Coordinate plan for Town Manager’s Office,
Planning, EDC, Main Street and other resources
___Main Street MOU update/Other
___Vacant office space strategy
___Tourism/Commercial attraction toolbox
___Improve and Update Town signage
___Arts & Culture Council established79
Governance (Elected)
Ensures policies remain current and effective. Strengthen
governance and Board processes. Brings current out-of-date
laws and adds needed policies.
• Discussion Items/Tasks:
___Charter implementation
___Update Ordinances and Policies (also rec of CRC)
___Appointments – Party designation/Path/Procedures
___Acting Town Manager policy (from CRC)
___Annual Land Use Summit (from CRC)80
Government Operations
Modernize municipal operations and organizational excellence.
Supports recruitment, retention, and succession planning.
Strengthens trust and resident participation. Reduces costs and
improves service delivery.
• Discussion Items/Tasks:
___Shared Services – Paving, buildings, vehicles, maintenance
___Performance Metrics – how are we doing
___Succession Planning
___Communications Strategy to the Public and Boards
___Professional and Transparent output from TM's office - better
meeting minutes, information on TM meetings, follow-up notes on
internal meetings, etc81
Technology, Transparency & Communications
Improve transparency, communications and cybersecurity for
the public and protection of data assets and information.
Protects municipal systems and improves resident access to
services. Strengthens trust and resident participation.
• Discussion Items/Tasks:
___Website
___ClearGov - needed enhancements
___Capital dashboards
___Meeting minutes
___Cybersecurity
___Resident engagement82
Public Safety, Sustainability & Community Services
Ensure sustainable public safety and community services.
Addresses needs of an aging population and vulnerable
residents.
• Discussion Items/Tasks:
___SVAA strategy and MOU renewal option
___Senior and Social Services improvements
___EV chargers installed – pay to use
___Rooftop Solar – Latimer Lane School, others
___Community Health83
Financial Sustainability & Capital Planning
Maintain long-term fiscal sustainability.
• Discussion Items/Tasks
__5-Year CIP and Capital priorities
__Grant strategy
__Shared purchasing
__Alternative revenue streams84
Housing, Land Use & Open Space
Balance housing opportunities with preservation of open space.
Weighs housing needs with infrastructure and community
character.
• Discussion Items/Tasks:
__Educate the Public of the State Laws, Board/Commission roles
__SHPAC Implementation
__Open Space Inventory/Planning Department Coordination
__Housing Growth Plan Strategy
__Open Space Position - Policy from BOS
__Affordable & workforce housing85
Next Steps
• Refine strategic themes based on Board discussion.
• Organize action items under approved themes
• Prioritize initiatives and tasks
• Develop measurable objectives
• Present final 2026–2027 Goals for adoption86
Action Item - From our Goals Goal Category - From our Goals
Begin Charter mandated review Charter Review
Clarify charge and survey objective of DEI Council Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Move the DEI Council's partnership from the Department of Social Services
to the Town Manager's Office
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Grow the grand list by attracting and retaining local business Economic Development
Create Business Development Plan with external stakeholders and public input Economic Development
Build stronger partnerships to promote tourism and grow visitors Economic Development
Review tax benefit opportunities Economic Development
Design targeted approaches to improve economic development Economic Development
Improve and enhance Town grant writing capabilities Funding & Revenue Sources
Increase grant revenue to the Town and key partners Funding & Revenue Sources
Establish uses for opioid settlement funds Funding & Revenue Sources
Engage in long range capital planning between BOS and BOE General Government
Implement recommendations of classification & compensation study and
ratify fair and reasonable successor collective bargaining agreements
General Government
Establish "performance metrics" in order to create a data-driven decision-
making process within Town government
General Government
Have the Town Manager establish a succession plan for Town leadership
positions
General Government87
Action Item - From our Goals Goal Category - From our Goals
Establish the Simsbury Housing Policy Advisory Committee and implement
recommendations
Housing
Encourage smart growth to support housing options at all price points Housing
Consolidate ongoing work within the housing policy space Housing
Renew exploration of construction (or acquisition) of new intergenerational
community center and potential synergies with new police facility and
establish timeline
Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Address short and long term ambulance service sustainability Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Create agreement with SVAA with benchmarks and goals Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Maintain social services while seeking program efficiencies and
enhancement
Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Enhance services for seniors Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Install additional EV chargers Public Safety, Community Health & Quality of Life
Upgrade website to improve access to town services Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Improve Town technological capabilities and security Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Implement ClearGov budget books Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Create Disaster Recovery/Cyber Disaster Plan Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Boost public engagement and support volunteer community Technology, Transparency & Efficiency
Establish updates on capital projects and streamline RFP process Technology, Transparency & Efficiency88
Additions
Review Policies and Ordinances to bring up to date and add as needed
Expansion of Shared Services like paving, vehicles, maintenance to DPW - budget discussions
Determine best use of Town buildings for current needs: SPD, Town Hall, ENO, Senior Center, Community Center, BOE, etc
Create an flowchart for all of our Economic Development pieces and how they will work together - budget discussion
Professional and Transparent output from TM's office - better meeting minutes, information on TM meetings, follow-up notes on internal
meetings, etc
Open Space Inventory coordinate w/ Planning Department in advance of HB8002
Clarify the path to appointments of U, D, and R party designation to all boards and commissions
To establish 5-year CIP that is realistic and attainable - remove all other wish list items
Eno Memorial Hall Plan and timeline
Economic Development plan and organizational chart depicting the now 4 components: SMSP, EDC, Chamber and new Town Manager Staff
Consider how to acknowledge our population growth percentage per year and how to control such
Move Senior Center and/or Social Services to apple barn
Deal with excessive vacant office space in town
Finalize a tool bag for attracting external stakeholders (as well as internal) to develop commercial grand list growth - i.e. tax abatements, etc.
Explore regionalization of services and asset procurement
Create an Arts Council or Commission
To create a master plan of all buildings, especially those that are under utilized as town assets. Buildings like the Apple barn, Eno Memorial, Hall,
Boy Scout, Hall, etc. not only usage and ways to monetize and promote better use of these buildings. But what the usage of each building
should be, who should be managing them since they each fall under a different department head at this point. Who is maintaining them both
from a structural as well as cleaning standpoint. I think we should have a standard and process for all of this. Additionally look at accessibility in
all spaces
Eno Memorial Hall, I would like to truly get a vision around what The plans should be for long-term use of this building
Creating a cultural art center. Whether that's at Eno Memorial Hall or another building, it is an economic development Driver and something
that is a huge asset for the town and brings community together.
social service and senior center plan
I agree with you about policies and ordinances and taking a deep dive and cleaning out and making sure they are up-to-date and appropriate
create an open space and town own land use master plan
Long term SVAA plan and public safety
Open Space Position - Policy from BOS
Town of Simsbury Signage
Put Solar on Latimer Lane School (and other Schools, Schools, Buildings89
2025 Charter Revision Commission Recommendations to the Board of Selectmen
Ø Enact an Open Space Committee ordinance to provide more clarity regarding open space
Ø Reference Connecticut General Statues Section 7-131b
Ø Reference the “Open Space Committee Form” in Code Chapter 21 or new open Space Committee ordinance
Ø Include “Open Space” definitions, categories and define stewardship
Ø Enact a Conservation Commission-Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency ordinance and include comments from UConn
report re: powers and duties
Ø Amend charter references in appointed board and commission ordinances
Ø Amend Code Chapter 34 to state nine (9) members and change “Directors” to “Trustees” and review language since no updates
have been made since 1968
Ø Allow for an annual land use board and commission meeting (similar to the Tri-Board of the Boards of Selectmen, Education
and Finance)
Ø When reviewing the Code of Ordinances (Proposed Charter Section 403b) chapters pertaining to boards and commissions,
consult with the members of that respective board and commission
Ø Create a policy regarding the appointment of an Acting Town Manager
Ø Create, clarify, and publicize unaffiliated protocols regarding the path to getting on the ballot for elected boards and
commissions and how to be considered for appointed commissions
Ø Work with the Town Manager to ensure all current forms of communication to the public are functioning as intended and find
additional ways to educate and communicate directly with the public
Ø If the Proposed Charter is adopted, within six (6) months, review Simsbury Code Chapter 9: Economic Development
Commission90
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Reappoint Matthew Arthur to the Economic
Development Commission
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Board of Selectmen support the recommendation as presented, the following motion
is in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to reappoint:
Matthew Arthur (R) as a Regular Member of the Economic Development Commission
for a 3-year term starting on October 10, 2026 and ending on October 10, 2029.
5. Summary of Submission:
Matthew Arthur (R) is a Regular Member of the Economic Development Commission with
a term set to expire on October 10, 2026. If reappointed, he will serve a 3-year term
ending on October 10, 2029. He was initially appointed on August 30, 2023.
6. Fiscal Impact:
None
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
None91
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Appoint Jeremy Pearlman and Michael Zemel to the
Economic Development Commission
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
If the Selectmen support the proposed appointments, the following motions are in order:
Move, effective August 10, 2026, to appoint:
Jeremy Pearlman (D) as a Regular Member of the Economic Development Commission
for a term ending October 10, 2027.
Michael Zemel (D) as a Regular Member of the Economic Development Commission for
a term ending October 10, 2026.
Further move, to reappoint Michael Zemel (D) as a Regular Member of the Economic
Development Commission for a term ending October 10, 2029.
5. Summary of Submission:
Jeremy Pearlman (D) is recommended to be appointed as a Regular Member of the
Economic Development Commission. The appointee will fill the vacancy created by the
January 16, 2026 resignation of Kevin O’Keefe (D) and will serve until the term ends on
October 10, 2027.
Michael Zemel (D) is recommended to be appointed as a Regular Member of the
Economic Development Commission. The appointee will fill the vacancy created by the
January 27, 2026 resignation of Tom Earl (D) until the term ends on October 10, 2026. At
that time, Mr. Zemel will be reappointed for a 3-year term ending October 10, 2029.
6. Fiscal Impact:
None
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) Jeremy Pearlman Volunteer Submission Form
b) Michael Zemel Volunteer Submission Form92
93
Volunteer Form
First Name Michael
Last Name Zemel
Home Address
City West Simsbury
State CT
Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address
Mailing Address
City
State CT
Zip Code 06092
Party Affiliation Democrat
Current Occupation Software Engineer
Please tell us how much
time you have available and
any education, experience
or special skills that may be
relevant to the
Committee(s) you are
interested in.
4 hours/week
Education: psychology, biology, philosophy
Experience: volunteer fire, community service
Skills: web design, graphic design, event organizing
Please select the Board(s)
and/or Committee(s) that
you are interested in
serving on
Board of Ethics, Conservation Commission/Inland Wetlands &
Watercourses Agency, Economic Development Commission94
Town of Simsbury933 HOPMEADOW STREET SIMSBURY, CONNECTICUT 06070
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AGENDA SUBMISSION FORM
1. Title of Submission: Acknowledge Receipt of William Clegg’s Resignation
from the Public Building Committee
2. Date of Board Meeting: August 10, 2026
3. Individual or Entity Making the Submission:
Marc Nelson, Town Manager; Trish Munroe, Town Clerk
4. Action Requested of the Board of Selectmen:
The following motion is in order:
Move, retroactive to July 29, 2026, to acknowledge the resignation of William Clegg as
a Regular Member of the Public Building Committee.
5. Summary of Submission:
The Town Clerk has received the resignation of William Clegg (D) as a Regular Member
of the Public Building Committee effective July 29, 2026. Since Mr. Clegg is affiliated with
the Democratic party, his replacement must be from the same political party. The
appointee will serve until the term ends on January 1, 2030.
6. Fiscal Impact:
None
7. Description of Documents Included with Submission:
a) William Clegg’s Resignation Letter95
96
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CALL TO ORDER1
2
The Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:00 p.m. in the Main3
Meeting Room of the Simsbury Town Offices. Present were: First Selectman Wendy4
Mackstutis; Deputy First Selectman Steve Antonio; Board members Mike Paine, Diana Yeisley,5
and Curtis Looney. Others in attendance included: Town Manager Marc Nelson; Deputy Town6
Manager Tom Fitzgerald; Treasurer/Finance Director Amy Meriwether; Budget Director Melissa7
Appleby; Town Engineer/Public Works Director Tom Roy; Library Director Lisa Miceli and8
other interested parties.9
10
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE11
12
Everyone stood for the Pledge of Allegiance.13
14
Ms. Mackstutis noted that Public Audience will be moved up before the Presentation.15
16
PUBLIC HEARING17
18
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO TOWN CODE CHAPTER 13:19
ETHICS, CODE OF20
21
For the Purpose of Hearing Comments from the Public regarding the Proposed22
Amendments to23
Simsbury Code Chapter 13: Ethics, Code of24
25
Joan Coe, 26 Whitcomb Drive, spoke about what unethical behavior means. She said the Code26
of Ethics establishes clear standards of conduct for public officials, employees, board members27
and consultants. This ensures transparency and forces community trust. It protects public28
resources. It is a roadmap for judging the conduct or actions of people that defy the rules of the29
law. The Board of Ethics needs to be able to judge their peers and need to be willing to30
reprimand those who are unethical with warnings, demotions, suspensions, or even immediate31
terminations. They must be impartial when judging conflicts.32
33
Ms. Yeisley made a motion, effective July 13, 2026, retroactively, to open the Public Hearing on34
the proposed amendments to Town Code Chapter 13: Ethics, Code of. Mr. Looney seconded the35
motion. All were in favor and the motion passed.36
37
Lori Boyko said these are nominal changes to the Board of Ethics Code, which she has addressed38
many times before. She said the people of a governing district can have trust and confidence in39
the public decision making. She said that those who make decisions don’t seem concerned40
whatsoever about possible ethics violations and indeed brush it off as small-town politics. She41
said she has spoken to attorneys at the State Ethics Offices about “big E ethics and small e42
ethics.” She said Big E ethics are related to matters that have been codified in State Statutes or43
local ordinances. Little e ethics are a matter of individual integrity or conflicts of interest that44
have not been codified but remain of paramount importance. Ms. Boyko went through a few4597
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cases where the State changed a decision from local Ethics Boards. There should never be a46
question of propriety of the Town’s official acts. She feels we have real issues in Simsbury in47
which conflicts occur much more regularly to the advantage of small groups or individuals than48
ever should. She feels this cannot continue.49
50
51
52
After no further comments, Mr. Looney made a motion, effective July 13, 2026, to close the53
Public Hearing on Town Code Chapter 13: Ethics, Code of at 6:07. Mr. Paine seconded the54
motion. All were in favor and the motion passed.55
56
Ms. Mackstutis said there will be more discussion and review from the Town Attorney and, if57
necessary, at the August Board meeting.58
59
PUBLIC AUDIENCE (6:07:23)60
61
• Email townmanager@simsbury-ct.gov by noon on Monday, July 13, 2026, to register to62
address the Board of Selectmen live through Zoom63
• Written comments can be emailed to townmanager@simsbury-ct.gov, not to be read into64
the record, but forwarded to all Selectmen via email65
66
Joan Coe, 26 Whitcomb Drive, spoke again about her no trespassing report to the Simsbury67
Police Department. She feels Mr. Antonio lives in Simsbury with a protective shield of68
government, which is unfairly protecting their own privileges. He has not assumed any69
responsibility for his actions. He destroys anyone who dares to challenge his credibility. She70
said she is asking, through social media, for everyone to boycott Antonio’s Restaurant and Bar71
until he removes his no trespass report against her.72
73
She said she recently questioned a sign at The Simsbury Inn entrance that was not permitted.74
When the compliance officer informed them of this, the sign was removed immediately. Ms.75
Coe said no action was taken when a sign at Antonio’s was notified as illegal. She said the Fire76
Department was called to 133 Holcomb Street on July 4th for a big party and illegal fireworks. A77
report was made, but no arrests were made.78
79
Ms. Coe said on June 10th several school trips went to High Meadow Day Camp in Granby.80
Officer Ball was there to assist with security at the Camp. There was a child who sipped in the81
pool and suffered a medical emergency. Officer Ball performed life-saving measures; however,82
the child was pronounced deceased. Other children who witnessed this also required medical83
assistance. The comfort dog was not with Officer Ball at that time.84
85
Ms. Coe said now that the nation is celebrating the 250th, officials should be required to read the86
Declaration of Independence as a requirement for their public service. It says the government87
derives their legitimate authority entirely from the people they govern.88
8998
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Margaret Haldeman, 17 Banks Road, said she strongly supported the deputy library director,90
head of children’s services division position. She said the role focuses on the future at the library91
while protecting the exceptional services already at our library. She feels the library is more than92
a place to borrow books. They collaborate with the Aging and Disability Commission on events,93
and a co-sponsor of other events for the community. She feels the revised job description94
formalizes vital library responsibilities. This person will also serve as acting library director95
when necessary. These duties affect every patron at the library. This role also prioritizes long-96
term planning like pursuing grants, strengthening emergency preparedness, and assisting with97
budgeting, etc.98
99
This position will help with financial stability and operational success. She said this is not a new100
position or expansion of staffing, but it formally recognizes management responsibilities. She101
feels it strengthens organizational continuity and secures successional planning. This update102
make excellent sense. With this update we will always be prepared to step in without103
interruption of vital services. She encouraged the Board to approve this position.104
105
Katie Crawford, 32 Phelps Cross Road, spoke about being in favor of the Deputy Director/Head106
of Children Services job description. She has lived here for 12 years and has also served the107
Town in different capacities. She has worked in the children’s department for almost 5 years and108
has seen exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication. She finds it unusual that with a109
Library this size, we don’t have a deputy director to support the leadership. A deputy director110
position would create more space to allow for the investment and success of the staff and quality111
of service provided to the community. This formalizes the responsibilities that the head of112
children’s services has been completing alongside of their other duties. Stephanie has already113
been very helpful and is very qualified. The position provides crucial operational leadership,114
ensures continuity in the library operations and strengthens support for the director in one of the115
most treasured facilities. The position utilizes existing staff without creating an entirely new116
administrative structure. She asked that the Board support this revision in this position.117
118
Nicole Mohart said she was in support of the revised Library job description. She said she119
literally moved to Simsbury for the Library. She and her family are always at the library. She120
works with a youth organization, and the library has welcomed them as a community partner,121
and they have participated and contributed in their programing. It takes coordination, vision, and122
leadership to build community connections that they now have. She said organizing,123
programming and resources, etc. require a title and structure that reflects the scope of the work.124
This reclassification does exactly that. She said this is not a new hire or budget line and it is125
already funded and approved at the referendum. This sends a message that Simsbury values and126
invests in its people. She urged the Board to approve the reclassification.127
128
Fred Bonini, a former 18-year Simsbury resident, and a 10-year President of the Simsbury Fish129
and Game Club, spoke about the Stoddard Reservoir. He spoke about a very difficult and130
complex conversion of a reservoir to a stream. He spoke on the importance of the reservoir on131
our environment and the protected freshwater clams in that water. He said there are also a132
population of native brook trout. These are critical for us to save in our State. He said it is also a133
habitat for blue herrings, snapping turtles, etc. There are so many beautiful things there in that13499
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incredible setting. He would like to suggest that the Town, Fish and Game and Watershed135
Council go to the State for a grant to save the reservoir. He also spoke about the volume of water136
and the sediment there. He really wants the dam repaired. He said it is important for everyone to137
support this project and was appreciative that he could speak.138
139
Norris Christensen, 6 Shinkle Mill Road, said in 1900 there were only 2000 people in Simsbury.140
Ensign Bickford just converted from water power to electric power 5 years before that. Now141
there was electricity and water in Town. Some families came together and created The Village142
Water Company of Simsbury in 1903. The Patterson Reservoir was then constructed. He said he143
went to a meeting on June 4th about the dam. He said they used a “fear factor” by using144
“catastrophic failure” is waiting to happen there. He feels the engineering firm “created the145
result” and it could be taken down, repair it, or it could be replaced. He would like everyone to146
pause any action so further studies can be done.147
148
Nevin Christensen, 44 West Mountain Road, also spoke on the reservoir. He said it used to be an149
old fishing spot but now the back part of the pond is just growing grass. The deepest part is150
about 7ft; just a little brook now. He gave the Board a report from his son Chadum on the151
important things growing there. He said the Fire Department said there was a dry hydrant there,152
that if repaired, could be used again. The silt will fill any holes in the dam. He would also like153
to put a pause on this so more information can be obtained to see if this can be preserved as it is154
such a valuable property. Maybe there could be a park area there or something where everyone155
could enjoy it.156
157
Michelle Rotundo, 4 Adams Road, said she attended the Congressional chat on July 1st on the158
opposition to 8-30g Statute for the large 689-unit Silverman proposal. She noted that this159
proposal was just denied by the Wetlands Commission. She said this may not stop them as they160
could re-apply with another proposal. She is strongly opposed to this development, and she is161
opposed to the 8-30g Statute. She does support affordable housing, but it must be done162
thoughtfully to preserve the qualities Simsbury has. She moved here for the open space, beauty,163
nature, and character of the Town. She feels the 8-30g Statute could allow huge developments in164
our Town and that would be unfathomable to her. Very large developments would put a strain on165
our Town schools, roads, water, sewer, emergency services, and increase traffic, etc. She feels166
this would permanently change the character of Simsbury. She feels this project would move167
Simsbury only modestly towards the 10% affordable housing threshold. We would absorb168
impact while remaining subject to that law. This all needs another look and this Board can be a169
powerful advocate for the Town. She asked that the Board make reform of CT 8-30g law one of170
Simsbury’s legislative priorities. She asked that the Town work with State legislators to pursue171
reforms that recognize towns making real progress towards affordable housing. She asked that172
we advocate for changes that give greater credit for deed restricted affordable housing, recognize173
accessory dwelling units that meet affordability standards, explore ways to count renovated and174
preserved existing apartment communities by reclassifying them as affordable housing, revisit175
how the 10% is calculated, etc. We should also look in to expanding moratorium options for176
communities like ours that demonstrate measurable progress with affordable housing planning177
and development. She also asked that the Board speak frequently about the impacts that the178
developments would have on our infrastructure, municipal resources, etc., and character of our179100
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community. We do have an affordable house plan and have adopted projects, and we deserve180
greater local control. She asked that the Board be a strong voice for a balanced approach while181
protecting our Town.182
183
Sara Westhaver, 6 Adams Road, said a 689-unit property would affect the terrible traffic issues184
we already have in our main artery in Town. Latimer would directly be impacted by a big185
housing development as the school is already full. She wonders what the plan is for the children186
who move into this type of development. She gave a brief history of her growing up in this187
Town and what she does today and she loves this Town. She said she attended the 250th parade188
and it was great. She asked the Board to co

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