Board of Finance backs $12.7 million capital plan, schedules public hearing and referendum

The Board of Finance voted unanimously to recommend a $12.7 million capital appropriation and the authorization of bonds or notes not to exceed $10 million after deducting grants.

First Selectman Norman Needleman described the action as the “second step in the bonding process,” and said the town plans an information public hearing and a Town Meeting in mid‑September followed by a referendum at the end of September to seek voter approval for the capital list.

The resolution text approved by the Board lists project allocations totaling $12,700,000: repairs to River Road and Old Deep River Road bridges ($2,750,000); various road repairs, drainage, related equipment and streetlight improvements ($3,700,000); improvements to the Public Works campus, Animal Control Facility and generator ($2,000,000); improvements and generator for Essex Elementary School ($1,200,000); Police Department building improvements ($650,000); Fire Department improvements and purchase of a water tanker ($1,000,000); and improvements to Centerbrook Meeting House ($1,400,000). The resolution authorizes the Board of Selectmen to determine particulars and to reduce or modify scope if necessary.

The motion to recommend the appropriation was made by Terry Stewart and seconded by Brian Weinstein; it passed unanimously.