By Beth Barhydt
The New Canaan Town Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday evening, covering a range of topics including utility updates, nature center expansions, theater renovations, and financial appropriations.
The meeting commenced with Cub Scout Troop 45 leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The council approved the minutes from the special meeting on September 4, 2024, and the regular meeting on October 16, 2024. Minor corrections were made to names and specific references within the documents.
Public Comments
Residents were invited to speak on agenda items. Sarah Langrie of 68 Wardwell Drive, a board member of the Town Players of New Canaan, spoke about the upcoming production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” set to open on December 6. She emphasized the theater’s role in the community and the involvement of local children in the production.
Utilities Commission Update
Rich Townsend and Sven Englund from the Utilities Commission provided an update on utility services, focusing on cell phone coverage and capacity issues within the town. They presented findings from a recent study that involved 125 miles of drive-by testing to assess signal strength and reliability across major carriers.
Townsend noted that while coverage exists, capacity is insufficient, leading to dropped calls and slow data speeds. Verizon users experienced a 40% call failure rate during testing. The commission discussed potential solutions, including working with existing cell towers to improve service and considering the use of signal boosters for residents.
Englund mentioned that increasing the height restrictions on cell towers could allow for more carriers per tower, potentially improving capacity. However, he acknowledged challenges related to economic incentives for carriers and zoning regulations.
New Canaan Nature Center Update
Bill Flynn, Executive Director of the New Canaan Nature Center, outlined recent projects and future plans for the center. Key updates included:
Education Building Renovations: Plans to upgrade classrooms and address municipal code issues related to bathroom facilities. The center seeks town assistance for the bathroom upgrades, which are necessary for compliance.
Prefabricated Greenhouse Installation: A proposal to install a new greenhouse suitable for native seed propagation, moving away from the costly renovation of the existing greenhouse.
Multi-Use Building Proposal: A concept for a new building to replace the current greenhouse, providing space for programs, events, and lectures. Architectural plans are being developed, and the center plans to return with detailed proposals and funding requests.
Flynn emphasized that these projects aim to enhance educational programs and support the center’s mission. He noted that while the center is funding several projects independently, assistance from the town is requested for specific municipal code-related improvements.
Powerhouse Theater Project Update
Patricia Spugani of the Powerhouse Performing Arts Center reported on progress toward renovating the theater. The organization has raised approximately $685,000 but faces increased costs due to rising material prices and expanded project scope.
Key components of the renovation include:
Lobby Improvements: Enhancing accessibility and interior access to restrooms, which requires reconfiguring existing spaces.
Education Center Development: Transforming the annex into an education center with additional space for classes, rehearsals, and community use.
Spugani requested that the town consider contributing an additional $200,000 toward the lobby project and matching funds for the education center, contingent upon securing a $500,000 state bond. The estimated total for the education center is $1 million.
American Recovery Plan Act Funds Appropriation
The council reviewed and approved the appropriation of the remaining $1,002,629.34 in American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds to the General Fund. Finance Director Anne Kelly-Lenz explained that the reallocation is permitted under ARPA guidelines, allowing the town to repurpose the funds for revenue loss reimbursement.
Kelly-Lenz noted that the projects initially intended for the ARPA funds may extend beyond the federal deadlines for commitment and expenditure. By reallocating the funds, the town maintains flexibility to fund these projects through the general fund when appropriate.
Board of Finance Appointments
The council unanimously approved the following appointments and reappointments to the Board of Finance:
Steve Doka: Appointed as an alternate member for a two-year term ending December 1, 2025. Doka is a certified public accountant and forensic accountant with experience in government and financial institutions.
Michael Chen: Reappointed as a regular member for a four-year term ending November 15, 2027.
James Yao: Appointed as a regular member for a four-year term ending November 15, 2025.
Housing Authority Loan and Bond Authorization
The council approved a resolution authorizing an appropriation and bond issuance of $4 million for the New Canaan Housing Authority Loan 2024 Project. The funding will support the Housing Authority’s purchase of Avalon New Canaan at 100 Lakeview Avenue.
Finance Director Kelly-Lenz explained that the bond authorization allows the town to reimburse its funds and establish a new debt service fund, keeping the financial aspects separate from the general fund. This approach ensures that the project does not directly impact taxpayers.
Closing Remarks and Upcoming Meetings
The meeting concluded with discussions on scheduling and the importance of communication among council members and committees. Council members emphasized the need for transparency and collaboration, particularly regarding upcoming budget discussions and interactions with the library’s administration.
Chairman Mike Mauro encouraged committee chairs to actively communicate meeting times and agendas to all council members. He also reminded members of their ability to initiate public hearings and engage with various town commissions.
Next Steps
The council is scheduled to meet again in December, with plans to address budget allocations and further updates on ongoing projects. Residents are encouraged to attend meetings or view them through available channels to stay informed about town developments.
