By Peter Barhydt
On April 2, the New Canaan Board of Selectmen held a regular meeting, focusing on a variety of agenda items including public safety, infrastructure improvements, and community support initiatives. The session, characterized by unanimous decisions, covered a wide range of proposals.
Firefighter Equipment and Services
Chief Bassett from the Fire Department presented several requests:
• Approval of a $26,000 contract with Firematic Supply Co. for firefighter structural personal protective clothing.
• Approval of a $70,000 contract for Morning Pride Turn Out Gear.
• Approval of a $50,000 contract with Gowan’s Knight for apparatus repair services.
Chief Bassett stated these investments were critical saying, “These investments are crucial for the safety and effectiveness of our firefighters on the front lines.”
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Police Department K-9 Acquisition
Chief DiFederico presented to the board for the New Canaan Police Department to welcome a new member to their team – a K-9 named “Leto.”
“Leto,” a 15-month-old Shepherd from Grasso Shepherds, was chosen for his breed’s renowned capabilities and for his specific potential in enhancing community policing efforts. Chief DiFederico underscored the dual purpose of “Leto” – to serve in operational capacities and to foster community relations. The discussion delved into the symbiotic relationship between K-9s and their handlers, emphasizing how Officer Sebastian Obando’s partnership with “Leto” would extend beyond operational duties to embody the spirit of community engagement and trust-building.
• The board approved $10,000 for “Leto’s” acquisition and an additional $550 for his nutritional needs.
Vote: The decision was unanimous.
Human Services – Outside Agencies
Bethany Zaro outlined the Human Services Department’s request to continue supporting vital community services through final grant payments to several key outside agencies. She emphasized how these agencies provide indispensable support across a broad spectrum of needs, from emergency interventions to ongoing mental health support and community care initiatives. Zaro detailed each agency’s contribution to New Canaan’s residents, highlighting their roles in addressing urgent community needs, supporting individuals and families during crises, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all residents. “These partnerships with outside agencies are the backbone of our community support system, ensuring that every resident of New Canaan has access to help when they need it the most,” Zaro remarked.
• Approved Amounts: The board reviewed and approved the proposed allocations for the fiscal year, which included:
o $11,750 to GetAbout.
o $32,000 to Kids in Crisis.
o $9,000 to New Canaan CARES.
o $2,500 to the Domestic Violence Crisis Center.
o $50,000 to the NC Urgent Assessment Program.
Vote: Unanimous decision.
Information Technology – Network Monitor/Log Appliance
Chris Kaiser introduced a request for the acquisition of a Network Monitor/Log Appliance from NetMon Inc., essential for enhancing the town’s IT security and monitoring capabilities. “This investment significantly elevates our ability to monitor and secure our network infrastructure,” explained Chris Kaiser.
• Approved Amount: $12,209.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Utilities Commission – Cellular Coverage Drive Test
Rich Townsend presented a comprehensive overview of the critical need for New Canaan to evaluate its cellular coverage. He highlighted the partnership with Ookla, with expertise in network testing, data, and analysis, to conduct a detailed cellular coverage drive test throughout the town. The purpose of this initiative is to map out areas of weak cellular signals and provide a data-driven foundation for future enhancements to the town’s cellular infrastructure.
Townsend emphasized that improving cellular coverage is crucial for ensuring public safety, enhancing residents’ quality of life, and supporting local businesses. The contract with Ookla involves using testing equipment to measure various aspects of cellular service, including signal strength, network speed, and connectivity consistency across different carriers.
This data would then be analyzed to pinpoint specific areas where coverage is insufficient and identify potential solutions, such as the strategic placement of new cell towers or upgrades to existing infrastructure. Townsend articulated that this effort is part of a larger commitment by the Utilities Commission to leverage technology and innovation to address infrastructure challenges.
• Approved Amount: $32,500, earmarked for a thorough assessment and analysis of cellular network coverage by Ookla, reflecting the town’s proactive investment in critical telecommunications infrastructure.
Vote: The board unanimously approved the contract.
Netting Water Tower Field
The request involved contracting JGB Sports LLC for replacing the netting system at Water Tower Field 1, as explained by Todd Deklyn/John Howe, to ensure sports activities do not interfere with the surrounding areas. “Upgrading our netting system ensures both the safety of our players and the integrity of our neighboring properties,” noted Deklyn.
• Approved Amount: $18,449.82 (including contingency).
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Waveny Fitness Area
Ryan Restivo/John Howe discussed contracts for the new fitness area at Waveny Park, emphasizing the community health benefits and the project’s alignment with public recreational needs. ”The new fitness area represents our commitment to promoting health and wellness in the community,” Restivo said.
Approved Total: $96,894 (across vendors, including contingencies).
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Benko Pool Parking Lot
Tiger Mann presented the repaving project for the Steve Benko Pool Parking Lot to improve access and safety for residents.
• Approved Amount: $329,330 (including contingency).
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Pave 2024 – Local Roads #1
Tiger Mann requested approval for a paving project targeting various roads, highlighting the critical infrastructure upkeep. According to Mann, “Quote: “Maintaining and improving our road network is essential for the safety and convenience of all town residents.”
• Approved Total: $1,243,954.25 (including contingency).
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Sidewalks 2024 – Old Stamford Road
The project, as outlined by Tiger Mann, focused on installing new sidewalks along Old Stamford Road, enhancing pedestrian safety and connectivity.
• Approved Total: $217,984 (including contingency).
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Test Pits – Waveny Park Locations
Tiger Mann discussed contracting Hussey Bros. for test pits in Waveny Park to aid in various project designs, stressing the importance of preliminary groundwork. Mann explained, “ “Conducting these test pits provides us with essential information for planning and executing park improvements with precision.”
• Approved Amount: $3,750.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Davenport Ridge Re-Paving
• Tiger Mann brought forward the need for additional surveying work by RKW Land Surveying for the Davenport Ridge repaving project, aiming to address long-standing drainage issues. “The additional survey work is a critical step in resolving the drainage challenges on Davenport Ridge, ensuring a long-term solution,” Mann clarified.
• Approved Amount: $2,175.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Purchase Order Increases
Tiger Mann requested increases for various previously approved purchase orders, detailing the operational needs ranging from sweeper parts to first aid supplies.
Approved Increases: Varied amounts for East Coast Signs, Grainger, Northeast Builders, Naps Co, Belardinelli Tires, and Redicare.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
Bond Sale Purchase Orders
Anne Kelly-Lenz sought approval for purchase orders related to the recent bond sale, emphasizing the professional services required for a successful bond issuance.
• Approved Amounts: Pullman and Comley: $75,000
Vote: Unanimous approval.
