001[music] >> Uh good evening, everyone. Um I'd like to just call our 6:00 work session in to order. Uh we will be discussing uh our plan of conservation and development, uh some of the changes and some of the recommendations made by planning and zoning. Uh the council at this point just needs to discuss that recommendation and give our feedback if we so choose to do that or to do so. Um I'm not sure who's going to lead off. I think uh for the purposes of getting this uh started on the all of us starting on the same page, I guess uh in your packet uh there is the recommendation from planning and zoning. I think it starts on page seven of the uh agenda. Um and I think for tonight, probably the best thing to
002do is just start with uh number one and go through the list of proposed changes or revisions or amendments. Right? Amendments. >> is the official term, yeah. >> Yes. Amendments is the right term to use tonight. Um So, with that, unless there's something from staff or town manager or assistant town manager, is there any comments you want to make before we just get into this? >> No, I I just if there's any missing information, I I I think it's pretty complete. We've We've done a lot of looking at this. So, if we've missed something, let us know, but I think [snorts] we're just in listening mode where the council wants to take this and how you want to respond. So, you know, John Bossi is is present as well. Um and you know, we can
003walk walk you through it. >> All right. So, I'm looking at uh the page that starts chapter nine, promote business economic development revision revisions to page 54. Uh the first uh recommendation is uh recommended approach on item number two of the POCD. The original text being commercial retail development on this site would not be appropriate. Uh the proposed text would be consider whether expanding commercial or retail development in the northeast quadrant beyond plan development district or otherwise known as PDD number one is appropriate. And that was April of 2026. So, any questions or comments regarding that recommendation? >> Uh Mr. Chair? >> Yes. >> First of all, I'd like to start off by stating >> I got it. >> the council and the subcommittee, the POCD subcommittee, did not recommend or request any changes to
004page 54. Um, so these are solely from planning and zoning. Um, my feeling on on the first on the recommended approach is changes it this by changing the text, it changes the 2019 vision of what the POCD was with no public input. Um, I I don't feel comfortable with this change or going along with this change. >> Okay, yep. >> Mr. Chair? >> Yes. >> Yeah, I had some concerns about this, too. You know, PDD when we did the amendments back in in December of '24, we did make the property that an area eligible to become a PDD, which it has, uh and they've been working with planning and zoning. And it's really a considerable, you know, development and project. And my concern is with that, you know, getting underway, um I'm really concerned about,
005you know, looking into more development, especially commercial or retail in that area until the you know, the project that is part of the PDD number one, um you know, is either completed or or near completion. Mhm. >> Okay, any other comments or questions? >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> Um so, I I believe that the planning and zoning has uh tried to uh clean up the POCD and is doing it on a as going forward basis, not going back to 2019 because you can't things things have changed since 2019 and it's it's a a living document. So, um the thing of going back to 2019 it can't it can't revert to 2019 because it wouldn't be compliant with Croc. And this these changes that planning and zoning have are recommending have already gone
006to Croc and been approved by them as compliant before it came to us. So, I don't see a problem with it. >> Do we have a copy of Croc's opinion of what was sent to them? >> You if you ask for it, I'm sure you could get it. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. I'm sorry, go ahead. >> Oh no, I I was just following up on um the comments that came before and just going back to the verbage of reverting back to 2019. One of the things that came up over and over again in the uh subcommittee was that we cannot revert back to a 2019 document if even if one modification, amendment, any kind of revision is made, it modifies the living document. Therefore, and and Mr. Bossy, you know, please chime in. Um
007so, that way I just want to make sure we're all using the right language. So, when we say revert back, that's really an impossibility. Um would the town manager or Mr. Bossy like to confirm that just for the record so that way when we go forward we could be using all of the same language. >> For the record, I never said revert. >> But that's basically if you're going back, that is reverting. Don't you agree? >> We're not going back. They are trying to change what they're they're recommending changing what was in the what's in the 2019 document with with nobody coming before them asking for that change. >> I I think planning and zoning can ask for changes in a document. They own the document so I think they can ask for the changes.
008>> The town owns the document. >> Okay. But the planning and zoning is in charge of it. It's in their charge. >> Okay. And there's a public we're there was a public hearing here and now we're having a work session on whether or not the town council agrees with their what they want to change. I do not agree with it. >> Okay. Mr. Chair, I think it's important to keep in mind that, you know, you know, planning and zoning certainly is a regulatory agency and they do have final say on many, many things. One of the things that they we do as a legislative body as the town council is when POCD is going to be amended and that's established by state statute 8-23. So, when you talk amendments, the town council [clears throat] is
009a party to the procedure. >> Mr. Chair? >> Yes. >> I would also like to add if CRCOG has already approved these changes, what are we doing here? What's the point? >> I Yeah. >> That's a great question. >> I don't I don't have uh access in front of me uh for the CRCOG response. Uh I'm not sure it's it's it's framed as an opinion. I think their role is in terms of oversight, you know, a referral to them for their for their possible input and comment. Then obviously it's it's the town of Plainville's document. Doesn't necessarily have to think Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe John has a better clear. I've always understood it as as a courtesy referral that they don't necessarily have to bless it or approve it, but I could be wrong. >>
010CROG's not approving your document. CROG's reviewing it in conformance with their documents and the documents of the abutting communities and other all the other communities that are within CROG. So, they're just looking for inconsistencies with this particular plan with other plans. >> Have they come back with their opinion on this document? >> have said that there is no inconsistencies with the proposed changes with [clears throat] the plans that they review. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> And I get you know, just my you know, back to one of the first things that were said. I think my concern is you know, >> [clears throat] >> they can make these changes without any public input. I would think you know, where we are right now with this document that you know, we we wouldn't be looking
011to do things you know, even if you don't have to. It doesn't mean you shouldn't. You know, you should still have some kind of public input. I would think we'd want to embrace that, but >> Yeah, it has to have public input. >> will actually they will have to have a public hearing. >> Okay. >> But it's you know, it's not the same kind of input that I think will be beginning about a year from now when we go into another planning phase for the next POCD where we're planning on a more systematic, more comprehensive and holistic I think way. And that's another concern I have about some of these changes when we are so close to being to another cycle of planning and and some changing some of the original intent. I I kind
012of question the wisdom of it. >> And that's just you know, I you take it for what it's worth, but I think the fact that we are close to reviewing the POCD on on a 10-year cycle, uh the fact that, you know, this wasn't something the council recommended or asked for in their letter to P&Z back I forgot when we sent the letter back in October. >> Yeah, or the resolution. >> Or the resolution back in October, and I I just, you know, with with the amount of of eyes on this particular POCD and and the issues that we're having, um you know, I I it sounds like P&Z will have to have a public hearing. So, this isn't something that's necessarily been approved. >> No, in in fact >> just it is still in
013the proposed phase, and they do have a process they will have to go through before making anything final. >> Right, this went through their work session last time they met. Mhm. So. >> Does anyone Does anyone know why they proposed this? >> [cough] >> They're trying to clean up the wording. >> Well, based on what? >> Mr. Chair, can I ask a question? So, I'm reading this, commercial or retail development of the site would not be appropriate. Um would not be appropriate, but when we have the PDD, that is to review, we've only had the the one thus far. Is that right? The one >> For that area For this particular area. I want to be clear just for the folks paying attention, and and and for the record, I Mr. Gademan, I didn't say
014that you said the word revert, but over these last few months, that has been something that's been said. So, I just want to make sure that our language is consistent for the people watching. That's all. Um The proposed text consider whether expanding commercial or retail development in the northeast quadrant beyond plan the the PDD number one is appropriate. They're saying the same things in essence. So, the first one would not be appropriate, but still a proposal can come before in the form of a PDD to be considered. Isn't And I And I'm genuinely asking it. It's the same thing with just clarified language to how I'm reading it. >> Okay, so I interpret this completely differently. The original text says, you know, development of this site would not be appropriate. What I'm reading in B
015is that development is appropriate beyond any PDD. That they're outside of the PDD, this would be eligible for development, which I think is in contrast to what originally was in there. So, that's where I'm coming from. >> Me, too. >> And I might be reading it wrong, but I you know, to me it says that, you know, obviously with the PDD, there's certain developmental opportunities, but this sounds like it's saying outside of any PDD, this would say that retail or commercial development is appropriate, which to me is, you know, [snorts] a 100° turn from what was originally there. >> I think it would have to be a new PDD. That's how I >> Well, then Okay, then I think they should say that. You know, and and then maybe that's kind of part of our
016response to this. >> Mr. Chairman, if I could just make a comment on that. The sentence begins with consider. >> Right. >> And so, the way I would read this is that previously they're saying no, and now they're saying, well, let's take another look at it. That's how I would look at it. I don't think they were saying to actually do that. Just from >> No, and that's And I'm just worried about, you know, it sounds like they're cracking that door open. And, you know, once you crack the door, you're not shutting the door probably ever again. So, that that's my concern. >> So, Mr. Chair, the word the beyond is what you're focusing on. Can I ask a follow-up question to Mr. Bossy? With this being a roadmap and a guide, what is your
017input on this? Does it crack the door open to that or with the PCD being a roadmap and the guide, was that door already cracked open? >> Well, if you want my personal opinion, >> Your your professional opinion. >> My My professional opinion is that um when they approved PDD 1, they changed the nature of that whole area. And as a result >> But only the area that fell in the PDD. >> No, I think they changed the area outside the PDD only because if the PDD is successful, then property owners are going to um be encouraged to well, from a monetary standpoint, they're going to see it as an opportunity to expand their wealth based on the fact that you had a successful uh development over here. So, I think that the Actually, I
018think the PDD 1 changes the whole nature of that particular at least the eastern part of that particular area. I mean, I think it's highly unlikely that um if PD 1 was successful, that they're going to scrap that they're going to scrap the possibility of all the investment that was brought into that area for sewer, power, whatever utilities were brought into it. They're going to basically overlook that and put low-density housing. I mean, maybe maybe somebody would be willing to pay a million dollars to be up in that area, but I mean, I'm thinking that generally speaking that there's more money to be made to continue what's been successful. Okay. >> And that's what PDD 1 did. It took that area and expanded the definition of what we were able to do in that particular
019zone. So, to circle back the door's not just cracked, it's it's open. >> Well, when they approved PD PD1, they converted all that area from low-density housing to some ex- I I would say a pretty intense development. I mean, when you have apartment buildings in a campus setting, um I think that's pretty intense. >> Thank you. >> All right, thank you. Can I ask a a question, Mr. Chairman? >> Yes. >> They action actually haven't approved a PDD, have they? All they've done is made the land eligible, isn't that right, Mr. Bassi? >> Well, >> No, the PDD was approved. >> When you regard approved, are you meaning that um >> The actual PDD development itself was approved? >> They They opened the door for somebody to submit a site plan as long as they
020comply with the the general parameters of the PDD. >> There's no active application right now in that zone, in the PDD zone. >> There's no active application. >> kind of where you were as far as when you said approved? >> However, the applicant is pursuing um what the town has said that >> What they're eligible to based on the PDD. >> Yeah. >> Mr. Chair, and and just for the record as well, and and no one I want to be clear, no one said this up here this evening. This again, it's important what the citizen comments say to me. It's very important that in the language that we use um going back to um the intentions of this and and being able to to rewind. Um sorry, I just lost my train of thought. Um
021what were we just talking about? Reverting back. Um If it comes back to me, I'll jump back in, but it was regarding the language the PDD it changing and expanding the definition of how it can be used. Oh, I know what it was. There's a lot of discussion of it being in a legal process, but there was a public hearing. It went from this council to that [clears throat] planning and zoning committee committee and there was a public hearing. So, I just want to make sure because it upsets me when I hear that something was illegal when we went through the appropriate channel. So, I I just want to say that for the record, please. >> No, the original PDD, you know, did go through that process. I was at the hearing. >> Right. Of
022course. It's just I just for our our citizens, you know, it was not an illegal process. >> All right. Any other comments or questions? Any consensus on what we want to do with this cuz I have a feeling we're going to have a special meeting Wednesday seeing that we're still on number one and we're 17 minutes in. >> Um >> [clears throat] >> I mean, I don't like the way this is written. Like, you know, and maybe I'm, you know, I have zero background in planning and zoning issues, but you know, to me the wording is just I don't think that's what, you know, I don't understand why they would take out the original text. And if it's associated with the PDD and anything anything adjacent to this PDD area now in theory can, you
023know, you would think that it would continue to expand into these non-PDD areas. I just think again, I would just say we're, you know, we're looking to go through this document again probably in the next year to start the process. I I think this is a type of change that needs to go through that process as opposed to making the change not in year nine of a a 10-year cycle. So, >> 100% agree. >> Mr. Chair, that was I think a good way of putting it. I, you know, maybe even a middle ground and I don't know if not suggesting this as the specific language. It's almost almost waiting until the current PDD, you know, begins to become a reality if it does and you know, let us absorb that too before we start having
024further development up in that area cuz it certainly will be a considerable project if it goes through, you know, as designed. I'm even concerned that we do we have enough staff to have all, you know, large scale multiple projects going on and that that's a concern right now that I think you know, may continue somewhat hopefully you know, we'll get a planner and there will be people but I think you know, there's a lot of even staff time needed if you started having a lot of more development up there simultaneously. So, I think maybe the middle there is a middle ground of just waiting until we would consider further [clears throat] expansion. Mhm. >> All right, any other thoughts, comments? I mean, I'm not sure exactly like, you know, do we get a consensus? I
025mean, it sounds like we're not going to get a unanimous vote or a recommendation on on this item one. Um, you know, does anyone have any thoughts? >> Mr. Chair, can I ask a question? So, let's just say we said what Rosemary just said and we send that back to planning and zoning. They can still then, you know, they just take our recommendations. I'm just making sure I'm understanding [clears throat] what happens with our as we go through these. We send back our suggestions, our reasons and then they can take them or not take them. >> take them or not but if they do to do something different from what we recommend, they do need a two-thirds majority. >> Two-thirds majority and a public hearing. >> And public hearing. >> And it has to be
026compliant with the region as well though. Rosemary has to be compliant. We can't shove something through that's not compliant. >> Well, who decides if it's compliant? >> Regionally, Crog. Crog. >> Okay. So, Crog can tell us that >> I don't think so either. >> I don't think that's right. And if I follow the the conversation, if you're sending it back to P&Z to say, "Hey, hold off on anything until we do the full-blown one." Then what you currently have has already been seen by CRAG, and they have said there's no inconsistencies. >> Right. >> So, there wouldn't be any further action. From the CRAG's perspective. >> Right. Right. Cuz at some point >> Again, I think it's just they they would I would think write a report that said, "Oh, we found this inconsistency." But
027the report to date has been there has been no inconsistencies with what what they've reviewed. >> Okay. Anyone else have any other questions or comments? So, you know, again, I don't think we're unanimous in this, but you know, I think you know, the I mean, I won't say consensus cuz we really don't even have that, but I I you know, it it sounds like there's at least some pushback from the council on this particular recommendation to uh keep it where it is right now and and have this be part of the process next year when we start uh doing our 10-year review of the POCD. >> That's exactly where I'm at. >> I could I could be comfortable with that as far as what we suggest >> Yeah, it's just a recommendation. I mean, they
028can take this into account and they still can, you know, make their own decision. It's certainly not They're not required to do what we want them to do. >> [cough] >> All right. So, let's see how number two That was only 22 minutes, so number two, but that was good discussion, though. Um so, number two recommended approach uh to item number four. It says renumber to number three. Uh the original text was, "As part of any development in this area require construction of public roads which will result in a continuous loop through this area and maintain two means of access for emergency response. It says or emergency response, but I think it's meant to say for. Uh the proposed text would be public road roadway shall be incorporated into any development proposals that provide access
029to each facility along with consideration for emergency response. Any thoughts or comments? >> Mr. Chair, just a question for John Bossi. I did, you know, watch the P&Z meetings and I think John explained why why this was changed and things that they've uh have come across since. >> Well, the reason why um the text was modified is that um there are some um environmental constraints. Um there's some wetlands that dissect the um the property. Um it's unlikely that um a wetlands commission or maybe even an agency higher than the local wetland agency would issue a permit to for crossing there. >> Okay. >> So, um looping both the basically envi- the environmental constraints separate this whole section into two pieces, east and west of where the wetlands are. And an intercon- an intricate connection would
030be probably a um it would be a challenging environmental um permit. And that's the reason why they've uh uh did chose to make some changes to this section. >> All right. >> Thank [clears throat] you, John. >> But this one makes sense to me, though. Yeah. >> All right. Any other Everyone is okay? We're saying okay to recommendation number two. >> Yep. Yes. >> Okay. That was That was in bad. Number three. Uh original text was consider reducing the quarry and dust quarry industrial zone to that area which has been quarried except as may be needed for implementing an appropriate closure plan. Can you tell us this is a government document? The proposed text at the end of the quarry's useful life, the quarry will be closed in accordance with the zoning regulations. Such closure
031activities may occur in stages as materials in specific areas are mined out or exhausted. So, you know, I'm going to ask one question here. Plainville, we don't have any What are you showing me? >> What Rosemary showed me. >> Go ahead and I was just We don't currently have an ordinance or a resolution as far as how to close a quarry locally, any local >> Mr. Chair? >> Yes. >> All that we have is under E, page 55 of the ordinance. Any finished quarry face or bank where further operations are not contemplated shall be left at an angle not to exceed 45° or in a series of stepped cliff faces, the total of which shall not exceed an angle of 45°. I, um, any finished quarry face or bank shall be permanently fenced at the
032top so as to prevent accidents, and K, any completed bank not composed of ledge rock or stone shall be covered with at least 4 in of topsoil and seeded with suitable cover crop. That's the only thing we could find as a closure for a quarry. >> Okay. Mr. Chairman, that's Is that just for clarification? That's the zoning regulations? >> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Yes. >> All right. So, that I guess, you know, I mean >> [clears throat] >> Short of. >> Should the town have some kind of ordinance relating to how to close a quarry? And we might not be able to answer that tonight. Um But that was the first thing that popped up in my head and you know, I'm sure there's some state regulations that are can be assigned to
033it, but >> Yeah, we something we can take a look at. I don't I don't think it's been contemplated given the fact that, you know, you look at the amounts and the quantities that are decades to exhaust. Um, but certainly I I think there's probably examples that we can draw from and we could find take explore and research. >> All right. Questions, comments? Yes. >> is it appropriate to change the text without the proper ordinances [clears throat] in place? >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> The question that I So, the quarry's life it is approximately and approximately 50 plus years, 55 more years. It says in accordance with zoning regulations and we're talking about, you know, even if we look at what closing a quarry is today, which I think we should be mindful of
034and be educated on certainly. Um, but at the end of the quarry's useful life, it will be closed in accordance with the zoning regulations. What what what would those zoning regulations be in 50 years? Or what the governance, what the rules are in 50 years. I don't even know how we would Would this being such a a road map and a guide? I I think we would really be in the weeds with this one. >> [clears throat] >> I'm comfortable with the language because it would be in accordance with the zoning regulations at the time of the closing of the quarry. >> Okay. But you know, you know, then a question I also have is what what is this the change? What is it adding that wasn't in the original text? I can't quite wrap
035my head around that. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Yeah, I do have to go back to that, but just I wanted to address the first statement that's crossed out. >> Yes, the original text. >> Yeah, considering reducing the quarry industrial zone. Um, you know, I struggled with this one. I've watched the planning and zoning meetings and and I understand the points that were made that it's very aspirational. I think that one of the words was used. I think somebody said that would be you know be a dream. Um, and and and I understand that. You know, it's uh you know, town can't just walk in tomorrow and and and close the quarry. Um, but um, that was the original intent back in 2019 and it had to be based on something, you know, some
036strong feelings. You know, I think still at least a couple of people on on P&Z would have voted for the plan with that in it. Um, uh we looked at it, you know, let the plan I certainly looked at as a console and that was the original intent. I understand the argument, you know, that for not having it there, but I think it's important to be true to what the intent was in 2019. Um, and and and to keep it there. Um, I would rather see it stay there and then but I then I think we we wanted to look at the proposed text as an added item, you know, um, I think we could say at the time of the quarry's closure, uh the procedure will be done in accordance with the zoning regulations.
037Which is I think what the council would >> I'm comfortable. That makes more sense. >> That makes sense. >> And that um, and I'd rather not say at the end of the quarry's useful life. You know, things happen. I'm not predicting any specific event happening, but things do happen and I don't think the town has to establish that it's of the quarry's useful life. I think we can just refer to to at the time of the quarry's closure. Uh cuz things happen. We don't know, you know, Tilcon may change something. It could be a natural event that happens uh uh >> [clears throat] >> and you know, I don't think we need to proclaim that it's at the end of its useful life. Yeah. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> I'm struggling with the one
038that was crossed out. I I I mean, I need some help. I get the first section consider reducing the quarry industrial zone to that area which has been quarried except as may be needed for implementing an appropriate closure plan. I just think that it's not the best wording to begin with. You know, so I think that yeah, I I don't like that. >> [laughter] >> But I would I would strike the first one and just keep the second one. >> Strike the original text and >> Strike I would excuse me, I would restore the first one. I'm sorry. Yeah, restore the one that has stricken out and possibly add a second item there that refers to following the zoning regulations at the time of closure. >> So you would keep both. You would you would
039keep the original text and add like another >> You know, in a way I'm not sure I see the need for the second one because obviously if there's regulations, ordinances, laws in place for how you close it, then you follow it. You know. But you know, but there's no harm in putting that that in there. Yeah. >> All right. >> Sure. >> What anybody any consensus? >> just make a comment Mr. Chair. >> Go ahead I'm sorry. >> So the only thing that I would say is that the use of the phrase closure plan is more comprehensive than uh zoning would be. Usually you use closure plan with the state deep is involved. You have closure plan. So 50 years from now when this closes it may be a good thought to have the regulations
040and a closure plan both. That would be my suggestion from having read this myself. >> Okay. >> That's the only thing I wanted to make as a comment to you to the council. >> Okay. Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> Yeah, thank you. Thank you Morris. I I didn't think that this original comment meant that they wanted to close the quarry soon. You know, but I think some people do take it like that. They they uh perceive that to be the intent, and I don't think that's the intent at all. I mean, all the land that is owned, it's all quarry zone. They're only going to zone quarry zone you know, property. >> But what I meant by closure plan was that typically what happens is if you have like a landfill, you have
041a closure plan, so that's what deed requires. And so the point I wanted to make was by using the term closure plan, you'd have an additional requirement beyond the zoning regulations. That was the point I wanted to bring to the council. That's I thought that was a good term to use. That's I wasn't talking about the timing or anything else. In fact, >> I I think when people look at it though, they think, you know, it's now, and I don't think that's what the intent of it was at all. >> I didn't >> Yeah, you weren't >> wasn't addressing that. That wasn't what I was [clears throat] trying to address. >> Okay, so the wording is a little ambiguous in the first one, and it's crossed out, and I think they're trying to clarify things
042in the second one. >> Yeah, my my point was that they think the closure plan adds another requirement in addition to the regs, cuz it may be a state mandated one. >> So we should retain that that term. >> I thought so. That would be a good thing to do. That would be my advice, but that's up to you. >> Retain the original text. >> Well, the clo- using the closure plan one way or the other, having that included beyond the zoning regs, so it would be in accordance with the zoning regulations and a and and a closure plan. Appropriate closure plan. I would >> You like that? >> add the closure plan with the zoning regulations. >> Yep, I agree. >> Okay. >> And I just I should have asked this first, but is
043someone from the staff write this stuff down? >> Andy's got it. I am writing stuff down. I imagine many people are writing things down now. Yep. >> Um >> Okay. So consensus, we're we're looking to add a closure plan with uh the proposed text that relates to uh accordance with zoning regulations. >> Yeah. >> Is that >> I just also wanted to comment on taking out the the retaining the text that's currently as has the strike through. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> I think I need better understanding of what that second part of to to accept that I I don't think I'm understanding necessarily what that's after the accept. It It's just a confusing sentence. And maybe I'm just not understanding it. It It's Mr. Bossy is is >> Yeah. >> Do you see
044the need to have both of those items to add on from the first one that's stricken out in addition to the second one? I'm sorry to put you on the spot. I just want to make sure that I I really get it. >> Yeah, we're on item three and we're talking about the closure plan and then the text the proposed text talks strictly about zoning regulations. >> closure plan um I'm not certain whether there'll be an outside agency other than the town that will um govern the um closure of a quarry. Usually the state of Connecticut or federal agencies get involved as a result of contamination or some kind of environmental issue. Now, um I'm maybe maybe the federal government in the mining or in in the mining agency they might have standards for closing
045mines. I mean I don't know. I mean I the regulations that would have to be I would admit that the um in the current regulations the clo- when a quarry ends um the function of how it's closed. They're pretty It's pretty thin. Um there wasn't a lot of thought put into it. I mean, granted, um the town has probably never really closed a quarry. I mean, the quarry on the south side of the road has been open for many, many years. Um it's still in operation now. Um at some point it would probably be It will close before the any other quarry in town. Um the only other quarry that I remember um that was closed was Aiello's quarry. It was an illegal quarry and basically they just filled it. Um there was no There
046was no [clears throat] closure plan. They just brought in material, dumped the material in there. Um I don't even I don't even know if the if we kept track if anybody kept track of what material they dragged in. Um as I recall, a lot of the material that they brought in was um people that had business with Aiello. would get a benefit of you do buy concrete for me, well, I'll let you dump material over here or I'll reduce the rate. Um so, I don't even know if we have a I mean, that's not even a good example. >> But do you see value in keeping that stricken out verbage and then adding the second recommended to it? All property owners have a responsibility to comply with the environmental laws, whether it's federal, state, or
047local. So, I mean, a closure plan related to the environmental issues would be a would be a requirement of when the operation cease. The issue um the town's intent on theirs is mostly safety. Uh it regards the slopes. Um it doesn't want It doesn't want anything greater than 45%, which is still pretty steep. Um it's trying to avoid um you know, sheer faces and it's put It's requiring a fence a fence around it. Basically, it's trying to keep people out. Whether it's successful or not, you know, who knows. But, it's trying to keep people out for their own safety because they may wander into an area where they don't misjudge they misjudge the dangers, and you know, falling 10 ft um could be catastrophic for a person. I mean, chances are it will be catastrophic.
048Um they'd be lucky to walk be able to lucky lucky to be breathing after they fall. >> Right. >> Um they're going to fall a a distance onto a a very hard surface. I mean, even though there's no basalt left to to um mine, the there's still going to be rock there. I mean, there's a difference in hardness for from an engineering standpoint, but I mean, your back isn't going to know the difference. >> Yeah. >> All right. Thank you. >> Thank you. So, it sounds like adding my adding that modification of an a closure plan would cover and encompass that first part. That's That's just how I'm I'm looking at it. >> Yeah, I I mean, that you know, from my perspective, it sounds like you know, if we add the closure plan to
049that proposed text, I mean, >> So, the >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> So, the first sentence would say at the end of the quarry's useful life, the quarry will be closed in accordance with zoning regulations and an appropriate closure plan? >> Yeah. That it could be that simple, I think. >> Yeah, in accordance with zoning in accordance with a closure plan and zoning regulations. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah, I do prefer that we say it's at the time of the quarry's closing >> Yes. >> versus >> Um >> Instead of a >> stating that it's the it's the end of the useful life. >> Yes, I agree. I agree, Rosemary. >> can happen, you know. Yeah. >> [clears throat] >> Fair enough. >> So, the proposed we're town the town manager, I don't
050if you're the one actually taking, but it sounds like >> It sounds like I am. >> taking >> like I am. >> instead >> I am taking note of the two things that were mentioned, so >> So, you know >> the time of the quarries closing >> Correct. For the first few words and then adding >> in accordance with the closure plan >> Yep. and >> and the zoning regulation >> Okay. appropriate closure plan >> [laughter] >> That's important. >> Yeah. >> All right. That's three. >> Hey. >> Okay. >> No, this is uh illustration, uh number four Original illustration was uh deleted December 2024 version. Uh the proposed illustration incorporated April 2026 version. Revised illustration modified the possible access roadway locations. >> Just a correction. >> So, can we just I just want to
051make sure we all have this the correct map. >> Yeah. Uh Mr. Chair >> Yes. >> Actually, a correction there for page 54 it was really the original 2019 version. It was not the 2024 version cuz 54 was not even touched as part of that that process. I mean, it was other than the fact that it had been eliminated and 63 put in its place uh and we restored and what we restored was totally the original 2019 page 54. >> Right. >> And to clarify, Mr. Chairman >> Yes. >> Um that page 54 I believe was deleted as a result of um Miss um >> like a copy and paste >> incorrectly organizing the document when the uh revisions were supposed to be included. >> Exactly. >> So, it wasn't like an amended process that
052had since been corrected though. >> Right. Right. Yeah. So, really >> Yeah, so we should say deleted December 2019 version. >> It's 2019 version. >> Does that that make sense to everybody? >> Mhm. >> And the other Mr. Chair >> Yes, go ahead. >> the other thing is um right in the dead center of the map where it says low density residential or PDD I believe or PDD should be stricken. >> Yeah. Oh, yeah. I agree cuz I I think that's something that has to be really approached in the next planning phase. >> Cuz it does have the existing PDD. >> Yeah, which was helpful, yeah. Mhm. And a question, John, the technology park zone is that in what's in green? And I know you're you're going to include a color key hopefully on the
053final copy for the maps. >> Well, the technology park zone is consists of the medical center. And there's some vacant property to the to the north of the medical center. >> Mhm. >> Um that's the that's the technology park. >> Okay. >> And then the PDD was a piece of property, I think it's like 80 acres to the north of that. >> Okay. >> And there's still remaining on that side of the wetlands, there still remains some areas that are not included in the PDD but were noted for um high low density housing and um >> Right, yeah. >> the planning and zoning commission and based on comment number one which you disagreed with thought that that's a potential area for an additional PDD or an expansion of the existing PD PDD. Depending on on
054who who develops it, how it's developed. >> Um There I'll wait to the next page, I think we already mentioned the technology park zone. I'll wait for that. >> All right, any other comments or questions? >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> So, the Wouldn't we have to leave in or PDD because we have a PDD? >> That's not where the PDD >> No, so so yeah, if you and I don't I we're looking at this map. I don't know if you can see enough. >> in the Yeah. >> Um So, the existing PDD is outlined. >> And that's helpful. Yeah. >> Which is clear. So, you know, I tend to agree that I'm not sure why we're I I understand that at a future time we may get um you know, we may decide to
055to expand the PDD area, but again, I would go back to the fact that you know, we're a year away from uh a complete review of this document that there's just I don't think at this point it's necessary to add or PDD into that low-density residential area. I think that's something that, you know, if we decide to add that kind of language, it should be done through the uh review of the entire document and not just made again in year nine of a 10-year cycle. >> Right. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Or if a if a developer wants wants >> Yeah, certainly they can come in >> they can apply for a PDD. >> Yes, no, we can Yeah, they go through the process like we did with the first one. Yes. >> Yeah,
056and even if if we just presented as an alternative, I think it's kind of inviting it, you know, like you said our >> Right. >> Yeah. Uh it's inviting, it's making a statement. Um I would so that's why I would take the PDD out and >> this point, you know, my preference is if it's low-density residential, at least for now, let's keep it that way. >> Yep. >> All right, any other comments or questions? Yes. >> Just I noticed that on the recommended approach uh on 54, the um number five would have to also be amended um it could consistent with the amendments you want to make on the um that you've made. It probably goes back there. >> Yeah, and you're talking about the next recommendation number five, correct? >> Yeah, recommended approach here
057it says five ended up >> the addition >> or it's useful life to quarry that'll have to be changed. >> Yeah. Yeah, it's it's the same map. It's from >> It's the same thing. It's the same I'm sorry. Right. >> So everyone understand what >> Yeah. >> Okay. So is there any questions on number five? I think that one we All right. So let's see. The next thing we got maps. So we're going to move now uh >> Oh, I see. Yeah. >> If you're on your >> Okay. Thank you. >> iPad we're on page looks like page 11 which is uh chapter 10 guide housing residential development. And these are revisions to page 63. Uh number one Mr. Chairman >> Yes. Clerk and I were just looking at number five. >> [snorts] >> Um
058number five >> Yep. Adding page 54 >> A, did you just go over that? Did we miss that one? >> not do that. >> What's that? >> So we're we're the proposed change or we're number five is proposing to add >> 54A which would be this map. >> that? Did we cover that? >> Well, I think we we covered it in the sense that >> out the >> They add the map. >> Yes. >> But our recommendation is to not put the ORPD D in that low residential >> trying to make sure we got it. >> residential. That makes sense? >> Yes. >> I just wanted to make sure we got it. Thank you. >> No, please cuz listen, this this we knew this was going to take a while and that's why we're doing
059this. >> Yeah, I think it's good to have that larger version of the city map. And >> Okay. >> I would love to make a suggestion too that they do a color key >> Yeah. >> for the for the maps. >> Yep. >> And I know by watching the meetings of John mentioned a couple of times too that the quality of the printing is going to be much better. >> That's right. >> Yeah, you're trying. >> [laughter] >> All right. All right, so page 11, the first recommendation on chapter 10. The original text that they're looking to strike is encourage or require the submission of a closure plan for the quarry operation. The proposed revised text would say at the end of the quarry's useful life, the quarry will be closed in accordance with the
060zoning regulations. Such closure Yeah, closure activities may occur in stages as materials in specific areas are mined out or exhausted. Um >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> My recommendation would be use the same >> Yep. >> as we're going to put on page 54. What we recommended on page 54. >> So at at the close of the quarry >> Yep. >> the quarry will be closed in accordance with >> The time of closing, yeah. >> the appropriate closure plan and the zoning regulations. Does that make sense to everyone? >> Yes. Consistent. >> And and >> Okay. >> I I'll tell you, I would not strike out that first part. I would add the second part that we just talked about, but I would not strike out the first part. Once again, it may be aspirational,
061but I think it was the original intent back in 2019 and should be retained. >> Completely agree. >> Until we have a more systematic comprehensive look at the plans for the town. >> All right, so the recommendation we're we're looking at uh Excuse me, of keeping the original text but adding the proposed text with those two changes to say at the closure of the quarry and to add appropriate closure plan with the zoning regulations. Any questions or comments? >> Mr. Chair, I just have the the same comment I had when we initially talked about this. I I think you know, someone brought up staff and you know, the best use of their time. It's difficult to come up with a closure plan for something that is decades in the future. That's just my two cents.
062>> Okay. All right. Any other comments or questions? All right. Well, item number two uh recommended approach 2024 item number one the original text would have been or was quarry reopened by owners truncating proposed open space low density residential. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> This was one of our recommendations from the council and from the uh subcommittee. And yes, I 1,000% agree with this. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. No, absolutely. It was you know, and I wish we had picked up on it more when we when we looked at it and when P&Z looked at it. It was just an unnecessary commentary. It had nothing to do with the amendments we were approving. >> All right. Anyone else with any questions? Otherwise, I'm hearing we're okay with that recommendation. >> Yes. >> All right. Assistant
063town manager, you can write okay. >> That's an easy one. >> Look at that. >> Um so number three recommended approach 2019 item number three >> Oh, that's easy too. >> Original text Do you I even need to read it or do you want to >> No, it's it's the same as as page 54. John gave us the explanation, so we're >> Okay. So number three's okay. We we're fine with that recommendation. Uh right on item four recommended approach 2024 on item number two The original text said PDD approach recommended for remaining technology park zone and adjacent residential land to the north. Uh the proposed revised text would say PDD approach may be considered for remaining technology park zone and adjacent residential and throughout the northwest quadrant. >> And they're aware that they it has
064to be P&Z is aware it has to change to northeast. Yeah. >> I think they probably meant northeast. >> Yeah, they did and they they mentioned that. >> They did mention that, yes. So that's the only change there then being well, so far the same northeast quadrant. Any questions or comments? >> Yeah, I think the residential land should be, you know, should not be included there. And John, how much you would you just alluded to it when I said I would you know, wait to ask you, how much property is left in the technology zone? Is it a small amount? >> What's left in the technology park zone is enough to build a 100,000 square foot um office building. It's supposed to be a medical building. >> Yes. >> Um so they're supposedly going to
065share parking with the with the uh medical center. >> Mhm. >> So it's it's not a you know, a full development of 100,000 square feet, but it's roughly 100,000 square feet. >> So would there even be a for the technology park zone, you know, putting aside the residential, the park technology park zone, would there even be a need uh for an amendment if there was somebody did want to do that as a PDD? Isn't that under the two uh >> Well, the only reason why um somebody would want a PDD is if they chose to want to put residential, high-density residential there. I mean the PDD and the um and the technology park, the the requirements are pretty similar with the exception that in technology park with the with with the exception of a hotel
066>> Mhm. >> um you're not allowed to have residential. So I mean the the Tomaso proposal has a facet of residential development. I believe there's it's a quite a number of units. I think it's in the range of over 200, I I believe, of units, various types, but um they're all rentals. Um in the technology park, that wouldn't be allowed. >> Okay. You're just saying it's the technology park zone. I don't know, you know, it's small. We're talking about a relatively small property. You know, I don't think I'd have a big problem with that being proposed as a PDD, but certainly not the residential area. >> All right, any other comments or questions? I think the recommendation from Council and Moranti is to remove adjacent residential in that statement. Correct. Anyone with any other comments
067or thoughts? All right, so looks like we'll be just looking to remove adjacent residential land and make sure it says northeast quadrant and not northwest. All right, we're continuing with page 65 or 63 revisions. Number five, this is another illustration. Says deleted December 2024 version. The proposed illustration incorporate April 2026 version. Revised illustration. Modified the possible access roadway locations. Modified color designations. Added revised note describing low density residential or PDD areas. Added a note preservation of key open space areas. >> Just the only thing we would need is the Well, I don't know if we want to like, you know, for that fourth comment down about low density residential or PDD that we somehow want to indicate that we are not indicating that we want the low density residential to become a PDD. >> We
068could just remove the PDD I think. >> Yeah. >> I mean, is that I mean, so we did, you know, on the map itself or previous map we discussed, we did say we'd like to see the or PDD >> Right. removed is similar recommendation here. >> Right. Yeah. Mhm. >> Okay, that is similar. >> Any other thoughts or comments? >> Mhm. >> Okay. >> So, I think again, being consistent with the other map is to remove the ORP DD. >> Mhm. >> All right. And on page six, uh page six, item six, added again, we're adding a page 63A. >> Yeah, just a bigger >> Yeah, same >> which is the bigger >> Same map, it's just bigger. Um and again, I I imagine the ORP DD in the low-density residential ORP DD, remove that
069or that would be the only thing >> Mhm. >> to be consistent with what we've recommended so far. Um now, at this point you know, we have a few minutes before 7:00. I don't know if now we're we're going to move on to revisions to page 65 next. I don't know if now's a good time to we'll discuss revisions to page 65 during the meeting. >> I think so. >> Maybe under town manager's report to finish up. Um we do have several presentations or a couple presentations. We do have a uh pretty busy uh early part to the uh agenda. So, if everyone's all right, you could have a few minutes to get ready for the 7:00 meeting. All right. Good evening, everyone. I'd like to call the uh June 15th, 2026 uh regular council
070meeting to order. Um if everyone could please stand, and I'm going to ask councilwoman Morante to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. If you could just remain standing after we're done, please. >> I pledge a >> Pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> If you can remain standing, thank you. Um just you know, since we met last, we we the town's lost a couple people that are, you know, pretty important. The first Howard Swanson, um Mr. Swanson was police or was fire chief for 10 years. He was very instrumental in the new firehouse, which, believe it or not, is now 38 years old. Um he unfortunately passed away at a
071very healthy age of 94 last week. Um we also unfortunately, our current fire chief, uh Mr. Maschini, lost his mother, uh I believe over the weekend. So, I would just like to take a few moments, a moment of silence for both uh the both of those people, the families and friends, just so we can uh acknowledge their passing. Thank you. All right, so we have quite the full schedule tonight. Uh we do have a couple presentations. Uh the first presentation uh we are going to honor the Plainville High School girls flag football team. Don't worry, you don't have to sit too long. What I'm going to ask is, I believe Councilman Getman has a proclamation to read with an assist from Councilwoman Christopher. Is that correct? Do you want to have the team meet you
072over there? It's up to you. You're going to have to yell, there's no microphone. There is a microphone? Yeah, or we could just have Foster talk. He doesn't need a microphone. Well, you guys are you're facilitating this. You do it the way you want. And I believe also, um, we have a proclamation or citation from the state. If you want to join them as well. Thank you. Our state representative, uh, Martinez and our state senator, Martin, they're both here tonight. >> Good evening, everyone. >> Maybe as they Yeah. >> This is backwards for me. I'm usually over there. Um, so we have a proclamation from the town. Um, first of all, congrats on the inaugural season. That was amazing. >> [applause] >> So, Plainville High School girls flag football. Whereas, a passionate group of students
073at Plainville High School petitioned to establish a girls flag football team, bringing a new and empowering athletic opportunity to the student body. And whereas, the team triumphantly began its historic rookie season in the spring of 2026, demonstrating extraordinary athleticism, commitment, and teamwork. And whereas, the Plainville girls achieved a remarkable season, proving their great strategy and dominance on the gridiron. And whereas, the team earned their spot in the highly anticipated CIAC Class M State Championship, facing off against East Windsor squad on May 31st, 2026. And whereas, on that unforgettable day at Windsor High School, the Plainville Blue Devils delivered a commanding shutout performance, securing the CIAC Class M State Championship with a decisive 25-0 victory. Now, therefore, we proudly celebrate with the great historic milestone in championship season of the Plainville High School girls flag football
074team. We commend the student athletes, Aliyana Mendez, Olivia Lagasse, Bella Colon, Isis Vasquez Vasquez, Jaylee Sruff, Soleil Vasquez, Jaylene Torres, Ashley Krisnausky, Skylar Miller, Alana Onisto, Madison Glasper, Addison Valentine, Imani Maduro, Megan Brochu, and coach Michael Dean, and assistant coach Grace Demello, and the entire Plainville Community Schools for their incredible achievement and for proudly representing Plainville on the state stage. Dated at Plainville, Connecticut, this 15th day of June, 2026. Plainville Town Council, Christopher Wasorko, chairman, Rosemary Morante, vice chairwoman, Rachel Buchanan, Quinn Christopher, Benjamin Gediman, Daniel Hurley, Deborah Tompkins. Congrats. >> [applause] >> And on a personal note, I was [applause] Grace's coach a long long time ago. She She perfected the eye roll. Can she still do that? >> Uh >> Yeah. Yeah. >> So, congratulate Now, I'm going to ask the team and if
075the coaches want If you want to make a line kind of in front here facing the camera, I'm sure parents and friends would like to get some pictures and we also have um we do have a citation from the state that I think we would like to read. >> Do you want me to call them up to give them their individual citations? >> You can do that. Why don't we do that? Let her read the citation. She'll She has individual citations for everybody. And she'll call you up and when you get called up, I would stay there cuz we need to get pictures and we need to get you on camera. >> Absolutely. >> Also, there's copies of this proclamation on the desk. As you walk by, grab one. >> Um Sorry, Martin. Do you
076want to read the proclamation and I'll call the names? >> Sure. Here you go. It's a proclamation. It's just a figure of speech less. >> Did he get all the names right? As far No, he he >> [laughter] >> All right, cuz it's probably going to happen again, but we apologize. We can clarify that after. >> So, first, congratulations. I read that the uh during the playoffs, it was like 87 to 0 0 points scored against you. Uh that's quite the defensive uh team that you have there, coaches. Well done. Uh I thought I'd just to say when we have championship teams come from our towns, usually we invite them to come up to the capital. So, this we're out of session, so we weren't able to do that, but um you're in good company.
077We've had the Yukon men's and women's basketball team come up to the capital as well as I know for the 31st district, I've had Thomaston girls basketball team twice come up. Uh most recently, the boys uh girls basketball team from Bristol Central. We've had the boys basketball team, as well. Uh now I get to brag that I got a a girls basketball uh excuse me, flag football team that competed for the very first time and won a state championship. That's just remarkable and outstanding. So, congratulations. So, what these citations say are uh the Plainville High School girls flag football team in recognition of winning the first ever C- CIAC Class M girls flag football state championship with a convincing 25-0 win over East Windsor. Winning this inaugural championship is a testament to all the hard
078work, determination, outstanding character, and teamwork that you displayed. You should be tremendously proud of this achievement, and it is a sense of pride that is shared by your family, your friends, school, and your community. We hope that your experience of becoming champions will form a lifetime of great memories and lasting friendships. Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Congratulations to all of you. I'm so proud of you. I am a flag mom. My son plays. I know how exciting the games are and how fun it is to watch all of the moments and the head taps and and all of the [clears throat] things that makes the game so exciting. So, really excited to see you and I'm hoping maybe me and Senator Martin can welcome you to the chamber on opening day. Cuz the year's not over.
079So, with that, I have citations for you. If when I call you up, if you can come and get your citation and then stand here for a pictures. Um Meg Brochu. >> Not here. >> Okay. Ashley Chis- Chiser Nowski. Sorry. I'm going to BUTCHER THAT ONE. >> [applause] >> HOW DO YOU PRONOUNCE YOUR LAST NAME? >> CHISERNOWSKI. >> YES? >> Ashley Chisernowski. There you go. >> Thank you. >> Bella Colon. >> [applause] >> Maddy Glasper. >> [applause] >> LIV LEGASSIE. >> NOT HERE. >> [applause] >> NOT HERE. >> Imani Medor? >> [applause] [clears throat] >> DURING THE GAME? DURING THE GAME? Did this happen during the game? All right. Aliana Mendez? >> [applause] >> Congrats. Skylar Miller? >> [applause] >> ALANA ONISKO? >> [applause] >> JAYLEECE RUFF? >> [applause] >> JAYLENE TORRES? >> [applause] [clears
080throat] >> CONGRATULATIONS. ALLIE VALENTINE? >> [applause] >> CONGRATS. ISIS VASQUEZ? >> [applause] >> CONGRATULATIONS. SOLEIL VASQUEZ >> [applause] >> COACH MIKE DEAN >> [applause] >> I ALSO HAVE WE HAVE A CITATION AS well for Plainview High School because you guys are the first class so I want them to have that for themselves and also assistant coach Grace DE MINA. >> [applause] [applause] >> ALL RIGHT, SO WHAT WE'RE GOING TO TRY TO DO now is we're going to turn this over to Sarah Tomczak who's right in front of you. She's going to get you organized. Parents, if anyone wants pictures, please feel free to make your way over and take pictures. Yeah, this one this one we haven't had this big of a group in a while so this is going to be You can do
081it. You want to have them standing? All right. Walk walk around. Yep, walk. Yep, turn there you go. While you're getting organized, whose idea was it to start the flag football? How did this come about? Oh, really? Well, congratulations. It was a great idea. How many of you are seniors? None? Well, we'll pencil you in next year at this time, right? A lot of pressure, coach. >> [laughter] >> I'm good. >> Does the council want to be in the photo? It's up to you guys. We can all look at this camera first real quick and then you guys can look at your parents, okay? Ready? 3 2 1 Perfect. Okay, now you guys can look at your parents. We'll switch. >> [laughter] [clears throat] >> All right, thank you very much. Congratulations. >> [applause] >>
082Yeah, you're welcome. And we understand if you don't want to stay for the rest of our meeting. Some of you probably have finals. Um So again, congratulations to everybody. We look forward to seeing you again next year. Good luck with finals, everyone. And we'll just take a couple minutes before we we start the uh or get on to the next presentation, which will be with our senior center. All right. So, thank you very much, everyone, for uh indulging us with that uh with the pictures and everything. Uh Sarah, she's still here. Thank you for organizing and taking care of that for us. Uh we do have a second presentation tonight. Uh we have uh Victoria Nadalaski, who's our director at of the senior center. She's here with us tonight. We're going to discuss a little
083bit uh about the senior center strategic plan and uh survey results that was conducted how many months ago. >> At the beginning of the year. >> Beginning of So, several months ago. So, I'll turn it over to you. Good evening. >> Thank you. Good evening, everyone, and thank you for having us tonight. As you know, the Plainville Senior Center has a long, rich history, and we are so excited to build upon that. I can't thank Stephanie and Katana and all our part-time staff, volunteers, and Committee on Aging enough. They make up an incredible team that is deeply committed to helping our center flourish. At the beginning of this year, we conducted a community survey to better understand what members and nonmembers value, where gaps may exist, and how we can best serve the community. We
084also did some homework. Through professional development opportunities, the committee the Connecticut Association of Senior Center Personnel Programs, networking, and visits to other senior centers, we gained valuable knowledge and insight that helped to shape our vision for the future. As we began this process, we asked ourselves two very important questions. What does a great senior center look like to you? And perhaps even more importantly, would I want to go to our senior center? Together with our staff, volunteers, and the Committee on Aging, we formed a strategic group. We used these questions as the framework to develop the strategic plan. Before I dive into the details, I'd like to ask you to imagine something. When someone says, "Let's go to the senior center." or mentions that their grandparents or parents attend the senior center, what comes to
085mind? What does that picture look like to you? Now, let me paint a new picture. You pull into the Plainville Senior Center and are greeted by beautiful flowers and thriving vegetable gardens. As you walk through the doors, you are welcomed with a warm smile and a friendly hello. The aroma of freshly prepared food fills the air. Soothing music plays softly in the background, and the space feels vibrant and inviting. You see people laughing, socializing, learning, volunteering, and creating together. In one space, energetic fitness classes are underway. In others, engaging educational presentations are drawing in curious minds. Special events fill the calendar, trips bringing new experiences, and the cafe is alive with conversation and connection. Everywhere you turn, people are building friendships, discovering new interests, and truly living active, meaningful, and enriching lives. You stop and
086think, "Wow, this is more than I ever expected. It's not simply a building, but a community. It's a place where people feel welcome, make friends, discover new interests, access access valuable resources, and continue to thrive." One of our goals to challenge One of our goals is to challenge the outdated stereotype that senior centers are only for old people who want to play bingo. Today's senior centers are vibrant community hubs that promote health and wellness, lifelong learning, social connection, volunteerism, and purpose. That vision is what inspired our strategic plan. I do want to emphasize this is plan is only the beginning. It is the starting point. We will continue to grow from here and re-evaluate everything we do so that we can provide the very best experience possible for the older adults of Plainville. With that,
087let's take a look at the view of our strategic plan and the exciting future we envision for the Plainville Senior Center. Once we gathered the data, we felt the first step was to develop a mission statement. It clearly defines who we are and our purpose, and we are proud to present that to you. The Plainville Senior Center's mission is to empower older adults to live active, meaningful lives by providing programs, resources, and opportunities that promote well-being, independence, and community engagement. Our strategic plan is built around six pillars. The first one is community involvement. We continue to strengthen partnerships with local schools, the library, recreation department, health organizations, civic groups, and other community partners to create meaningful opportunities for adults to stay engaged and connected. One of our highlights with that was being a part of
088the Memorial Day parade. Everyone absolutely loved being a part of that. Seniors mentioned how it was the first time they'd marched in the parade since they were in school, and they felt like a kid again. So, it was That was truly amazing. The second pillar is communication. We are increasing our communication methods, including social media, videos, flyers, text messages, phone calls, and direct outreach to ensure members stay informed and connected through their preferred method of communication. One highlight with that, I don't know if you saw on our Facebook page what what we're now calling our senior scoop, where Katana and Tim informed everyone of the monthly programs. Uh our third pillar is programs and trips. We offer a diverse range of educational, wellness, recreational, culture, and social programs designed to meet the evolving interests and
089needs of our members. One highlight there is one of the educational programs that we're partnering with CCSU for an America 250 presentation. The fourth pillar is social connection. Reducing isolation remains a priority. Through social activities, volunteer opportunities, intergenerational programs, and regional partnerships, we help foster friendships, purpose, purpose, and a sense of belonging. One highlight there is we started a new Pages of Gratitude Journaling um program that Stephanie, our social worker, is running, and people are loving the engagement with that. Fifth is fundraising. We continue develop to develop fundraising initiatives that support programs, transportation, and community engagement while increasing awareness of the senior center's value to the community. One highlight there is we are running a apparel sale. So, people are buying T-shirts, long sleeve, short sleeve, and sweatshirts that they're wearing proudly around town. And
090sixth, which is our last but most important one, is our hours of operation. Based on survey data, attendance trends, member feedback, letter of support, and operational review, we are proposing updated hours that better align with members needs and usage patterns. The proposal received unanimous unanimous support from our committee on aging and reflects common practices among senior centers throughout the state of Connecticut. Our hours proposed are Mondays 8:30 to 5:00, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursdays 8:30 to 4:30, and then Fridays 8:30 to 1:00. As we move forward, we remain committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and providing the highest quality programs and service for Plainville's older adults. Our goal is to ensure the senior center remains vibrant, welcoming, and valuable community resources for years to come. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Is there
091any questions or comments? Anyone with anything they want to ask or comment on? >> Mr. Chairman, >> Yes, go ahead. >> Thank you, Victoria. I I thought we had received something on this and I thought the hours were till 5:30, not 4:30. >> Yeah, my mistake. Um that was in my notes and incorrectly um >> So, what the information we got was wrong? >> The what I put in my notes is incorrect. Uh Victoria has just stated the correct hours. Uh >> Okay. >> Monday uh 8:30 to 5:00. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. >> And you should also have received a brochure where it is um it is on there. Yeah, the proposed hour change. This is a brochure that we printed for our members so that they know the progress of our uh strategic
092plan. >> Mr. Chairman, >> Yes. >> I I just want to say thank you for the presentation and I just so happen to be at the senior center this afternoon on a personal matter and everything that your strategic plan covered is exactly what I felt when I walked in. First off, the parking lot was packed. I was like, oh, this is an exciting place to be. Um walked in the door, loved the garden, was greeted with a friendly hello, was immediately sent the resource that I needed while I shopped for cards um and people came out and welcomed me and I had organic wonderful conversations and I was there for a difficult reason to get information regarding uh one of my parents. So, uh a difficult walk-in became a positive experience. Um there was a
093class going on, a physical class going on in one of the rooms. There it was a packed you're having something going on uh but it was full of when I left, I'm 52 and I thought I cannot wait to be able to come to the senior center. There's an amazing gym in there and life and vibrancy is absolutely what I felt. So, brava. It was amazing and I'm grateful that you're there. Good work. >> Thank you. Thank you. We greatly appreciate that. Our staff works very hard for all of that. So, I appreciate that. >> Right. Thank you. Anyone else? >> [clears throat] >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> I would just like to say how much I appreciate you being in the Memorial Day parade. >> [laughter] >> We had fun. >> We had
094quite a few cancellations this year and you guys were troopers. >> [laughter] >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. You're welcome. >> Well, thank you again for being here in the presentation. We look forward to working with you. If there's, you know, certainly any resources, we're we're here. Just a phone call away. We'd be happy to help and >> Mr. Chair. >> Oh, yes. I'm sorry. >> I'd like I'd like to from the standpoint of long-term membership >> [laughter] >> And very long membership. I congratulate you. >> Thank you. >> You're You're doing a great job. And it's it's a lot of fun to go to the senior center and just participate in whatever event I've chosen to participate in. But it's it's a great And you you keep my wife busy. >> [laughter] >> Yes,
095we do. We love your wife. >> So, thank you very much for everything. Thank you for bringing new life to the senior center. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Appreciate it. >> Town Manager? >> Yes, Mr. Chairman. Thank you. I just want to echo or also just maybe add to that that there is a lot of great activity, great energy. And what I get to hear, and you don't get to hear, is that the numbers are trending positively in terms of membership and participation numbers. A testament to the team and and their effort and what they're doing. So, it's paying dividends. Yeah, it it's certainly there's a lot more interest in in what's happening there. And there should be because they're doing some great things. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Congratulations again and we're
096here to support you in any way we can. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> ALL RIGHT. >> [applause] >> SO, THAT COMPLETES OUR PRESENTATIONS. We do have two public hearings this evening. I will ask the town clerk to read the call to the of the public hearing, please. >> Thank you. Notice is hereby given that the Plainville Town Council will hold public hearings at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 15th, 2026 in Municipal Center to consider one, proposed ordinance entitled ordinance establishing fourth quarter transfers for the fiscal year ending June 30th, and two, an additional appropriation of $596,000 from unassigned fund balance. Copies of said proposed ordinance are available for public inspection in the office of the town clerk dated at Plainville, Connecticut this 11th day of June 2026. >> All right, thank you. So, we
097talked a little bit about this at our last meeting. Is there any other information? This is a a standard public hearing we do have at the end of the fiscal year to balance out line items and make any additional appropriations that need to be done. Is there anything you want to say before I open it up to the public hearing you or finance director? >> Mr. Chairman, I will I'll defer to the finance director, but I will say that what's in your packet is also there next to the podium if anyone's interested in not see the handouts. >> A list of what we're actually what changes we're looking to make. Or adjustments we're looking to make. Okay. All right, what I'll do then is if there's anyone who wishes to speak to the public hearing,
098please step forward to the podium, give your name and address. You'll have 3 minutes to make your comments. The first ring means you have about 30 seconds left. The second ring means time has run out. Is there anyone that wishes to address the public hearing this evening? All right, we are going to close the public hearing. What I'm going to do now is ask for we we'd like to amend the agenda a little bit and move I think what's item seven report of the town attorney up to this portion of the meeting. If someone could just make a motion, please. >> Second. >> All right, all those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? So, what we're going to do is we're going to continue you know, I'm going to after we get through the
099plan of conservation development discussion, but we had a work session. We did not get through everything we needed to during the work session. So, we're going to continue the discussion and you know, hopefully that way any any town staff doesn't need to stay till 9:00 tonight. We can get through the conversation a little quicker this way. So, um what we're up to now is on your agenda packet, I believe it's page 13. It's revisions to page 65. Um the first is a guide of managed residential development item four of the POCD. Uh the original text was guide development in the northeastern southeast quadrants in accordance with conservation and development principles in the POCD. The proposed revised text would be guide housing residential development in the northeastern southeast quadrants in accordance with conservation and development principle
100established in chapter 10, guide residential development of the POCD. And that was dated April 2026. Are there any questions or comments um with that recommended change or recommended amendment, I should say. >> Okay, Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Uh just you know, a question that perhaps Mr. Bossy can answer is it says the conservation development principle established in chapter 10. If you could let us know exactly what that refers to. And then I have a question um the text that is stricken out says in accordance with conservation and development principles in the POCD, which seemed to make more sense to me because I assume you would look at all the conservation and development principles in the POCD and not just in one chapter. For example, there are chapters on protect natural resources, protecting open space,
101sustainability that would apply to almost anything in the POCD. I would just wonder why we would limit it, make a change that actually limits it to one chapter versus things chapters that really apply throughout this POCD. >> Uh John, do you mind if talking a little bit about that if you can? Did you understand the question? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Um the answer to the question is is that >> Just hit the button. Yeah, thank you. >> Um the answer to the question is that the page 65 is part of uh chapter 10. >> Mhm. Yes, I know that. >> And um the other chapters um they would be incorporated, but it's specific to the Put it this way. Um the plan of conservation development is a a holistic type of develop document. Um
102the referral just to chapter 10 was related to just specifics of housing. Um housing has other components if you were to choose developments, but um some of the goals of housing are specific to you know housing as in where where it's supposed to go, that kind of stuff. And you would encompass the other sections of the document as part of the the big picture. And um from a housing standpoint, you're just talking about the housing issue. >> So this is this this issue is specific to housing. >> What I'm getting at is is that um the document as a whole is something you would you would refer to as a whole, but if you're talking specifically about housing in in the sense of housing, you'd only be referring to this particular section. Um I know
103that in any any decision you encompass uh decisions outside of the the core, but but this is what the planning and zoning commission thought was appropriate in in for for this um recommendation. So as it relates to housing or residential development you know it is chapter 10 is where that's housed and and that's why they were specific in mentioning chapter 10 and not necessarily just anything in the document. >> your comment about anything in the in the in the whole document is is relevant in the sense that if any decision made related to housing would encompass the whole the whole document. >> Right, yeah. >> Not just this one chapter, but if you're making specific density requirements and those kinds of things, the main the main emphasis should be on this chapter. >> Okay. >>
104And by principle do you mean the recommended approaches? >> Well, I mean there are goals and objectives and all that kind of co-mingled in there. I mean principles is kind of a catch all for everything everything. I mean >> Um you could use other words. I mean goals and objectives would be just as good as principles. >> Okay. And so it should be a plural cuz it's it's such says principle it probably should be a plural there. Okay. Thank you, John. >> All right. All right, any other comments or questions? >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> I like the language because it gives someone as far as established in chapter 10 it's not limiting to chapter 10. It's just giving a point of reference as to where the information is coming from. I think it
105just helps drill down. >> Okay. Anyone else with a question or comment? What's anyone Anyone have a recommendation? Accept it as is? Is there any changes you'd like to see? >> You know, I wonder if we could just you know can combine the two and just make it one where we we say the principles established in chapter 10 and and other relevant principle in the POCD. >> Yeah, I agree. So, just when it says with conservation development principles established in chapter 10 and also >> and other >> other relevant >> found in relevant parts of the POCD. John, would you be okay with that? >> Not that it's your decision, John. We're not holding you. I know we're being recorded. >> really, yeah, I'd ask him rather you you'd be comfortable bringing that back to
106B&Z, yeah. >> I mean, your comments are relevant. I mean, you can't make a a decision in the in a in a in a closet. I mean, you encompass everything when you make a decision. At least I hope they encompass everything or at least they're giving advice to encompass everything. Um, but yeah, I I don't see that they would have a necessarily have a problem with what what what you're suggesting. >> Okay, but yeah, thank you, John. Sorry to put you on the spot on that, yeah, but I just thought that would be a a way we could could um uh resolve that. >> All right, any comments or questions related to that suggestion? >> Mr. Chairman, >> yes. >> I wish I didn't. I just feel that the we're it's just redundant if we
107keep them both, unless I'm missing the necessity to have both. >> Well, I think from my perspective, you know, the proposed text references chapter 10 and only chapter 10. I I and I think the idea was to make sure it's clear that it's not just chapter 10 that, you know, there are other principles in the POCD that can also be taken into account regarding this. And I think that, you know, please tell, you know, if I'm off base. Council and memorandum, you know. >> I certainly that that was the intent with the original statement from the 2019 that it was, you know, looking throughout cuz there are things that regard I said you're talking about protecting open space or protecting natural resources that does apply. And I just think we can resolve it by you
108know, including it in one statement. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Yeah, if if there is any redundancy, then I would propose getting rid of the revised text. That that that's actually the redundant part of it. But I I'm good I'm good with it combining the two statements. It >> Okay. >> You would use both. >> All right, anyone else with a comment or a question? I I mean I I you know, I would like to you know, I would like to make sure that it's clear that it's not just chapter 10 necessarily that you that you know, you you could principles in chapter 10 that you you can use as guidance that there is an ability, you know, to use the entire document. So I don't really have a problem with a recommendation saying
109just add the uh you know, generic POCD principles in general if needed. Yes. Hit your mic first. >> The statement says it's chapter 10 guide residential development of the PC PLCD. I don't see the need for the extra. >> Okay. >> I really don't. >> Okay. All right, so we seem pretty split on this one. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Dan, you don't see the the need for the change or the change. >> You don't see a need for the change. >> Change >> Leave it the way it was. >> I would clarify change to the original text change to the original. >> Change to the keep it the original text or >> No, this uh guide housing residential >> he's saying he's he would not alter the proposed text. >> Okay. >> Yeah.
110>> Correct? >> Yes. >> There we go. >> Okay. All right. Anyone else? I mean, we you know, I'm looking for a consensus. We seem to be kind of split, you know, but I know it can't be 50/50, but >> If it's redundant, I'm fine with it being redundant. It I think that both statements need to be there. >> And I agree, obviously. >> It It would Mr. Chair >> Yes. >> It would just need to be rewritten and streamlined. Because it it would it would read guide development in the northeast and southeast quadrants in accordance with conservation development principles of the POCD, guide housing residential development in the northeast and southeast quadrants in accordance with It's it's redundant. We would Maybe our recommendation is to consolidate because Yeah, we're looking to streamline and improve
111and help people that are looking at this document be less confused. And it's a guide and a road map. And giving them a guide to where something was established in chapter 10, I think helps bring clarification and adding what that it's housing and residential helps narrow the scope for someone who's looking at this vast document. >> I think it could be easily edited and and down to a more streamlined version. >> I agree. >> Mr. Chairman >> Yes. >> based on the conversation and the notes that I have had >> Take a stab at it. >> Yeah, was um guide housing/residential development in the northeast and southeast quadrants in accordance with conservation and development principles established in chapter 10, guide/residential development um and other relevant principles found in the POCD. >> Perfect. >> That's fine.
112>> Perfect. Okay. >> That was my note based on the conversation. What I understood was just the general consensus. >> Mhm. >> All right. >> Okay. >> Thank you for getting us out of the hole. >> You're welcome. [laughter] >> That was nice. All right. The The >> next one is guide / manage residential development item 4A. Um yeah, I'll just read the proposed revised text considered creating a new R80 zoning district minimum lot size of 80,000 square feet with an overall density limit of 0.3 units per acre of buildable land as part of an open space subdivision concept. And then it says see recommendation 5E below also reviewing the open space development provisions within the zoning regulations. As an alternative development plan consider a PDD approach which incorporates the open space provisions and is
113consistent or enhances the development objectives on the adjacent approved PDD planned development district North Mountain PDD number one. April 2026. Uh yes. >> I don't think this is necessary at all. >> [clears throat] >> Um I think it's opening the door that doesn't need to be opened. I I think the original text was fine the way it was. >> Well, and you know, looking at it um you know, trying to look at it real quick here is just to define I mean again, it does bring in the dimension of a consider a PDD with the proposed text which it didn't with the original text. Um >> They would have to do that anyway. >> All right, any other comments or questions? >> I just Mr. Chairman >> Yes, go ahead. >> Yeah, you question the
114once again the the PDD um whether that's really necessary there. >> Okay. Anyone else? >> And that was offered as an alternative, yeah. >> Yeah, yeah. Anyone? >> No. >> What would the the recommendation then be with the couple comments we had? What would you I I think uh Councilman Getteman, you said you'd stick with the original text. >> the original text. I don't see any any reason to change it. >> All right, anyone have any comments or questions to that recommendation? >> Um we might want to change it to consider from create. >> We can add add the word consider. >> Yeah, create or or consider, yeah. >> Yeah. That would be the only change I would make in >> Bless you. >> Thank you. >> All right, any other comments or questions? >>
115[clears throat] >> Mr. Chair? >> Yes. >> I understand that we don't want to have the door open, but I think what what I'm understanding is happening here because we did have the PDD approach. Again, we're back to it is open and it's it's just offering a course of direction. I I just think it's I I don't know. We can't undo what's been done. >> Well, I and I and let me try and let me try and put my thoughts together here, but to me if if this is an alternative development plan, there must there must be many different alternative development plans available. If we're going to add one potential alternative development plan, we should probably list as many as we can think of. I I you know, and that's where I I you know,
116that was my concern with this section was why we keep referring to PDDs when there are many other options available as well. Not that it's wrong to look through look at a PDD, which we did obviously and we passed you know last year. Now it's been 2 years now actually. Um but um but that's my concern with with that second half of that proposed text is you know, I'm not sure why we're just considering a PDD approach when there are other approaches and is it necessary? I mean, you know, it's it People do have the right to come to us and ask for a PDD and we have a process that we went through already with it, but um again, that that that would be my comments is I I just think I learned superfluous.
117That was a word I learned the other day. I have >> No, no, I I agree I I agree you know with that and that's really consistent with some of the things I said earlier in the meeting. >> I can't say it fast. I have to say it slow, but um but yeah, so any other comments or questions? Um again, so we'll go back I mean, you know, is any would everyone be okay with sending back the recommendation that we essentially keep the original text, but add the consider a new R80 zoning district and not use the word create? >> Yep. >> Yes. >> Is everybody okay with that part at least? >> Yep. >> Yes, Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Is there anything additional that Mr. Bossy would want to add as far as
118our education on why this was modified in this way or And if no, no, I I I I agree. It's hard because we received the recommendations without the logic behind it and I think it's important to have the logic behind >> Well, I mean, an R80 zone is a a very very low density. Um it's usually in areas where public utilities aren't available or maybe possibly in more elite communities where you have larger acreage and people have to have larger homes or, you know, more of us than a state type thing. Um, in this particular area, right now there are no utilities. Um, at some point in time there probably are going to be utilities there. Um, do you if you still if you still desire to have low density housing, would be better to
119group the the group the low density housing the housing actual part of it together. Um, and then have vast vaster generally open space that is very well could be accessible for the public or maybe it's a private open space. Um, a PDD and it can be a residential, I mean, it's customarily not low density, but it it conceivably be, um, you know, some kind of a a development like, um, it would maybe wouldn't occur here, but um, there are places in the United States and maybe even in Connecticut where they're oriented towards equestrian or some kind of some kind of a unique, uh, um, hobby that's associated with having space. Um, where you might want to you'd either have to rewrite a regulation to allow it and it would be kind of kind of in
120a similar in a similar mode cuz it wouldn't it wouldn't occur generally over over the vast areas of town. It would only occur in maybe one spot. Or it's that's kind of the reason why a PDD might be appropriate if you're coming up with a a unique, um, design or a unique philosophy or a unique, I mean, maybe maybe somebody wants to have a commune, I don't know. And, um, you want to all live in the same same structure. Mhm. But, you don't want to have, you know, um 12 of these things. So, somebody would have a PDD to have, uh, I don't know, maybe a 15-room house with two kitchens or whatever, and people would live in a in a commune, and then you would use the R-80 principles to have all that all
121that excess land kind of set aside for open space. I mean, I doubt very much that you'd have a high-density or a low I mean, a low-density PDD. I I doubt very much that somebody's going to propose that. But, you know, there's always somebody that might might want to try something, and um it gives planning and zoning some flexibility. Otherwise, they would have to go through with a a rezoning a rezoning process and to create the same thing. >> I understand. Thank you. >> Okay. >> All right. Thank you. >> Hold on hold on one second, John. But, essentially, they could still go through the PDD process without it actually being stated here. >> Right. >> Correct. Um you got to understand too that, um there's a little bit of a um kind of I
122wouldn't say a glitch, but a little bit of a loophole in the regulation. Um when I think of a PDD, I think of a massive a relatively big project. Well, um if you're under 2 acres, you can still ask for a PDD. It just doesn't strike me as something that, um as time goes on, maybe maybe the planning and zoning commission might want to reconsider that a PDD is only, you know, for 5 acres or greater or not less than 2 acres you can do. I mean, you could have a um an R-40 lot and and conceivably put a try to put a PDD for that particular one lot. I mean, recently they approved a PDD for where the eyeglass place was on E Street. And that that's probably a third of an acre, about
123a half an acre. Um does that I mean, would that be appropriate for a PDD? >> Probably. >> You Everybody's got their own opinion. Um I don't necessarily think so, but obviously the planning and zoning commission had opinion when they adopted PDDs as part of the regulation that it was something that smaller lots should be considered. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Yes. If it's if it's under two acres then we don't have we don't have a role in that eligibility, correct? Yeah. >> That's that's correct. And is that I mean is that right? I mean you know somebody PDDs are in a sense kind of like spot zoning. >> Mhm. >> All right. >> You make the rules up, you convince four members of the seven that your rules are the best use of
124that property and they raise their hand and all of a sudden now you've got a a unique situation in the in the midst of something that might be completely different. >> Right. >> All right. >> Well as the chair is either you were or you were consultant gentlemen just said we're not precluding it but you know we're we're just not invite necessarily you know inviting it in an area where you know we're very concerned about natural resources etc. Yeah. >> Okay. Um So I guess at this point oh go ahead. >> I was just going to say the plan we're still talking about keeping at the original talks but >> Add consider okay. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> All right any other questions or comments? All right um the next one a guide plus manage
125residential development item 4B and again we're looking to the original text was rezone the area indicated in the POCD in the northeast and southeast quadrants to R80. The proposed revised text would say consider rezoning within the northeast and southeast quadrants to R80 where sanitary sewer service is not feasible. Any comments or questions? >> Looks good. I think it looks good. >> Yeah. >> I agree. >> I have a question. I have a question. >> All right. Generally, everyone's okay with that recommendation? All right, that's an okay. Um and now we're moving uh onto the next page for revisions to page 65 uh again, a guide/manage residential development item 5A. Original text was analyze the actual lot sizes in res- residential zones to reduce non-conformities and the yeah, proposed revised text analyze the actual required lot
126sizes and densities to address non-conforming parcels. Any comments or questions? >> That That makes sense. >> Yeah, it does. >> Okay. That's an okay, as well. Uh now we'll be >> Wait, I'm sorry, Mr. Chairman. >> actual language says to address non-conforming parcels. Is that what the actual language is? >> Analyze Yeah. >> Yeah. >> That's the new one as opposed to reduce in the original one? >> Yeah, the original says to reduce non-conformities. The revise or proposed text would be uh to address non-conforming parcels. >> I don't really have any other comment. I don't really understand the point of it, but I don't have a comment on that. >> Oh. >> All right. >> [laughter] >> No, that's fine. Uh I mean, John, is there anything you want to add to that recommendation? You
127don't have to. I just >> No, I don't have anything to add to that. >> Okay. >> [clears throat and cough] >> All right. Um then I'm going to move on to 5B. Original text was revisit building heights in residential districts and the story definitions to avoid making existing or future home non-conforming. Um proposed revised text consider creating in the zoning regulations a definition of building story. Any questions or comments? >> Mr. Chairman, that makes perfect sense to me. It should have been done a long time ago, I think. >> All right. Anyone else? Otherwise, 5B is okay. Um on to 5C, uh added text. This will review and consider modifications to building heights requirements in residential districts to address the present and future housing units and avoid creating non-conforming residential structures. Any comments or
128questions? >> No. >> I think it looks >> All right, we're on a roll. We are up to 5D, uh added text to this one, review and consider modifications to the residential minimum unit floor area requirements. Does anyone want a definition of what a residential minimum unit floor area requirement is besides me? >> Yeah. >> I always want a definition. >> If you're able to answer that, John. You're getting your steps in tonight, at least. >> Okay. Well, I mean, that's directed towards being mini houses or micro houses. Currently, they're not allowed in town. >> No. >> Oh, okay. >> So, I mean, uh many of them are under I think the the the minimum now is like 700. Many of them are under 700 square feet. Um so, um there have been inquiries in
129regards to mini houses. And um it's something probably both planning and zoning and the town are going to need to address. I mean, people are using them for second second buildings on an existing lot, um whether or not that's something that you want in every zone or even in any zone, or, you know, how small can they get? I mean, there's Can you get down to I mean, 200 sq 250 sq ft? Maybe somebody can pull one off. I wouldn't I certainly [clears throat] wouldn't want to live like that, but >> Yeah. >> there might be somebody that would. >> Okay. Thank you. All right, does that Does that help? >> It does. >> Okay. >> Yes, I've no problem. >> And we're okay with that? >> Yep, I'm good with that. >> Um and
130I think the last recommendation is to change to 5E. The original um language re- uh revisited the open space development provisions in the zoning regulations uh to ensure it will work appropriately for the northeast and southeast quadrant. And a revised text would say, "Review the zoning regulations uh to ensure they balance the need for conserving open space, especially sensitive environmental areas, and the need for responsible residential development." Any questions or comments? >> I Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> I like this. I think it's it's a good add. >> Okay. Um Anyone else any comments or questions? Is everyone okay leaving that that recommendation as is? >> Yeah. Yes. >> All right, so I think that concludes >> Yeah. >> what was recommended by planning and zoning back to the council. Is there any other questions
131or comments? Cuz we haven't talked about the POCD enough lately. Is there anything else we would like to cover? Um I think the plan, before we come off of this, the plan right now is um Generally, the council's going to have all these recommendations written up so we can see it in writing. Um and the plan would be for us to establish a special meeting Wednesday night at 7:00 in discussions I had with the town manager about this to actually vote on it cuz I think all of us agreed, you know, we we'd like to see it in writing before we actually approve it and send it back to P&Z as our recommendation. So, that's the plan right now. Um Planning and Zoning does have a scheduled uh public hearing on July 14th. I'm July
13214th in the council chambers. Um and I would imagine that, you know, our idea was we wanted to get our recommendation back to P&Z as quickly as possible to give them time to to look at it obviously before they get to the public hearing and to also make it available, you know, um for anyone that wishes to see it uh from the public. Um So, with that I think that's the plan. You know, if we need to just verify, you know, if any questions, obviously I I did try to take notes as we went along. There's any questions. Um otherwise, we will we're done talking about the plan of conservation development for this evening. Unless someone has a question. We are under the town attorney's report. Is there anything else you wish to add to
133tonight's report? >> I'll see you guys Wednesday night. >> All right, any >> I have nothing else. >> Any comments or questions for the town attorney? All right. So, thank you very much everyone. I know we did spend a lot of time on that, but I think it was necessary. I'm glad that we were able go with go through this line by line. Um What we'll do now is move on to uh >> Mr. Chairman, excuse me, before we move on. Um I haven't checked the availability uh for the 17th. I'm just wanted to note if there was any flexibility with the council in terms of time. If we had cuz I see this as a shorter meeting potentially once everything gets written up that you could convene if we had to. I'm not sure
134if John or somebody the other meeting schedules or who has this room booked for Wednesday night. >> All right. >> Okay. >> Just >> We can circle back. >> So just for how yeah, we need to make sure we can but that's that's our plan right now the framework for how we'll deal with that actually voting taking a vote. Um all right. So we're back to minutes of the previous meeting. Anyone care to make a motion? >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> Motion to accept the minutes of the June 1st Town Council meeting. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Any questions, comments, any changes? All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Announcements and reports, any announcements or reports this evening? >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes,
135go ahead. >> Yes, uh last week I attended the conservation June meeting of the Conservation Commission. They reelected officers and reelected with the chair Randall Pass and as vice chair Jeff Stevko. Uh they had the trail day hike earlier in the month and it was a success and they got as far as Hospital Rock which is pretty difficult hike. Um and also the chair Randall Pass participated in a native plant trust. They had voted to participate in it back at their May meeting. Uh it's initiative that's a New England based initiative where that inventories and works to save native plants and there was a specific one they were looking at for in the southeast section of Plainville and they did they did find it and log the information. So that was something new that the
136Conservation Commission has done. And then I was also at the Library Board of Trustees. The new regional library system Polaris is up and running. The migration went smoothly. A few kinks to to clear up, but it went overall very smoothly. Summer reading programs are ready to go. The kickoff is June 24th and still working on setting up the new teen space. And then this Thursday, of course, I'll have Committee on Aging. I do have the honor of being the liaison to the Committee on Aging and it's always a great meeting, very productive. so much about the Senior Center and I think we have the best Senior Center in the state. So, okay. >> [laughter] >> All right. >> And today, we forgot. Yeah, there's several of us and a couple of Board of Ed members
137also had the honor of attending the 80th class reunion Plainville class of 1946 of Plainville High School and three members were there with more energy than a lot of younger people I know. Um Catherine Mastrianni Badalato, Gloria Mengual and Sal Santacroce, who used to be chair Planning and Zoning Commission >> [laughter] >> here in Plainville. It was a lot of fun. >> All right, thank you. Anyone else with an announcement or report? >> Nope. >> I just want to report that high school graduation happened last Friday. The weather didn't cooperate, but we were able to pivot to the gymnasium where due to my glasses fogging up in the humidity, I butchered the proclamation that the Town Council >> [laughter] >> wrote up for them. If you get a chance, look at it. It's bad. Um
138>> [laughter] >> but otherwise, it was a you know, turned out to be a great evening and you know, obviously the students were excited, the family and friends that gathered were excited. So, we wish them the best of luck as they move forward with their lives. Anyone else with any any announcement or report? All right, we will move on then. We have a few appointments and I believe a resignation this evening. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> I'd like to make a motion to accept with regret the resignation of Anthony Wasley from the Board of Education. >> Second. >> Motion and a second. Any comments or questions? Um, just he he actually is going to be teaching in the Plainville school system come September and he is not able to serve on the
139Board of Ed and be an employee of the town at this time. So, that is the reason for the resignation. We are very happy to have him in district now. Um, all those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. >> Mr. Chair. >> Go ahead. >> I'd like to make a motion to appoint Giancarlo Carbone to the Board of Education for the term ending November 2nd, 2027. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Um, any comments or questions? >> I believe I just butchered his name. Carbone. >> Carbone. >> Giancarlo Carbone. >> Carbone. >> Giancarlo Carbone. >> Well, this is the night. >> This is him. >> We You're not the only one we've butchered. It's >> I apologize. >> [laughter] >> All right, any other comments or questions? All
140those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Welcome and say goodbye to 20 hours a week a year >> [laughter] >> All right, but thank you for stepping up. We appreciate it. Um, item two. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> Motion to ratify the Town Manager's acceptance of Danielle and I'm going to butcher this last name, I apologize, Angelo Angelillo's resignation from the Advisory Recreation and Park Board. >> Second. >> Motion and a second and you got that correct. Um, any comments or questions? All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Item three. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, sir. >> Motion to appoint Beth Graves, 6 Dave Street, to the Municipal Ethics Commission for the term ending September 6th, 2026. >> Second. >> A motion and
141a second. Any comments or questions? >> Mr. Chairman. >> Yes. >> Um, I know there's an effort to have a balance of political parties on our commissions. So, can you tell me the other four parties of that are on this board? Because this looks like it it's going to be a very unbalanced board. >> I believe I'm going to take a guess it's one Republican, one unaffiliated, and three Democrats. >> Nope. >> It's then >> It's two Democrats, one Republican, and >> two unaffiliated. >> Okay. Mr. Chairman, I just have a question, please. Were there any other applications? >> I'm not aware of any other ones. I think >> was interest, but I don't think we ever received the application. I did not check uh today. Um, I did not ask I did not bring
142that up with Lisa. >> Cuz I know I was going to speak with I told you I was going to speak with two people. >> Yeah. I think she sent out um those uh applica- or contacted, I believe, but I don't think she received anything back yet today that I'm aware. >> All right. >> Fair enough. That's what we just wanted to know if there were other applicants, how we came to the decision. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> All right. Any other comments or questions? All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? All right. Motion carries. Um, any other appointments this evening? Um, I would like to just make a note here. Um, if we pull together Wednesday night special meeting, I need to apologize to Jenny. We she we had talked about
143expanding the 250th uh anniversary committee. And I forgot to let you know that we would like to modify the ordinance or amend the ordinance or is it a resolution? Resolution. Um, to add one more member. Uh, what I'd like to do is when we have our special meeting, if that could be part of the agenda Wednesday night. Uh, for us, I, you know, I know there's a process that we need to follow to amend the resolution, but if we could have that on there, please. All right. Um, Board of Education, anything? Mr. White, anything you want to share? You don't have to. >> No, I would guess that this is supposed to be the third meeting and it did not, but I >> I know. But, you're here. >> Giancarlo to the Board of Education
144and also say that, uh, the board did accept with regret, uh, Anthony Wasley's, uh, resignation, but he is taking the place of a science, a marine science teacher who is resigning. Uh, uh, actually retiring this year. So, uh, I think Giancarlo is going to be an excellent, uh, addition to the, to the Board of Education. >> All right. >> And we welcome him and, uh, I'm glad to have him aboard. >> Well, thank you. >> And, uh, yeah, we are sorry for the weather, but that was totally out of our control Friday night. Um, um, and that uh, did hold things up just a little bit, but in overall, the, the I think did really fulfill the expectations of the, of the 179, uh, graduating too. >> Very good. Thank you. Um, we can move
145now to report of the town manager. Good evening. >> Okay, good evening. Um, first item is the senior center hours of operation and, um, that their recommendation as, uh, Victoria took you through and it's also in the brochure here, uh, is to, uh, change their hours and she went through those hours Monday 8:30 to 5:00, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30 to 4:30 and Friday 8:30 to 1:00 p.m. So, I'm in support of that. I've had many conversations with Victoria about going through the process to notify, survey, talk with everyone and I think it's been a positive feedback. There hasn't been any negative comment that I've heard about, so I'm certainly in support of this uh recommendation [clears throat] to change the hours and there is an item under new business to acknowledge the implementation of the
146new hours beginning August 31st of this year. >> All right. Any comments, any questions? All right, number two. >> Sorry, Mr. Chair. I think I do have a question. I'm just thinking [clears throat] back to the presentation from Victoria and do we have anything currently in place as far I think you mentioned something as far as a I think you mentioned a partnership with the schools. Um you know, maybe looking at something with youth services for summer program. Is there anything in the works like that to build that bridge any further in the works? >> We do intergenerational programming with youth services. We run programs we call Crafternoons, so on early dismissal days. Um we've just kind of started doing our first couple um and we're definitely going to bring them back as the school
147year gets closer, but that's been something >> Love that. >> Terrific. Thank you. >> All right, thank you. Any other questions, comments? All right, number two. >> Number two, the update on the Burner Pool repairs at Norton Park. Um the um Yeah, I've got a bunch of notes here and maybe what I'll I'll I'll be through it uh, give you a little bit more from what I learned from Dan today that, uh uh, uh, they're addressing, uh, the issue and it's, uh, associated with the grates and the frames that hold, uh, the grates on the floor. The frames were old and out of compliance with the Virginia Graham-Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. Uh, Superintendent Dan Sisson has secured 14 new grates to replace the old one and has started the installation project uh, process
148[clears throat] with his, uh, crew. Uh, I'm happy to report that he worked, uh, through the through Saturday and, uh, his team were they were able to get that done. So, that is, uh, check the box that it is, uh, completed. Um, so, right now, um, they are, uh, they began the cleaning and final touches, uh, on the pool. That will continue, uh, for, uh, tomorrow and I believe Wednesday they're going to try and begin to refill the pool, uh, start the system, calibrate, you know, chemical, all of that stuff. Um, optimistically, I mean, I'm going to be we're going to be pushing to try and get, uh, a health department inspection for Friday if at all possible, but if not, certainly by Monday. And, uh, again, I'm I'm fingers crossed, I'm hoping for, uh,
149Friday, but he Yes, Dan did a credible job, um, you know, sourcing and trying to get, um, through this whole whole process, um, and, uh, you know, getting 14 grates was not an easy task and we went through some hoops to try to get them here and overnighted and so forth. So, his crews worked hard, uh, to to fix the grates. Uh, there were some issues with the the frame themselves. They had to redrill, uh, as well. So, they got it done on Saturday. Um, they're starting to clean up and a little bit of pile work as well that they got to do. Uh, but hopefully water will be going in this week and we'll get an, you know, open as soon as we can. So, I just I won't know, uh, anything for maybe
150I'll I can report Wednesday, you know, on the on the side, so to speak, um, with um, with where they are, but hopefully we'll be filling it up and getting it open soon. >> All right. Uh, any comments or questions regarding the pool? >> Mr. Chair, I just had a quick question. Um, recently when there was the water main break, I I saw a lot of uh, chatter on social media saying, "Oh, they must be filling Norton Pool." Is that Does that happen to that neighborhood? And and if so, is there a way to notify folks of when it will be filled if there's a pressure change so that way we don't alarm people? >> I saw the same comment. I don't know. I know it was it was water main, it wasn't the pool,
151but I'm not sure if that actually happens. Maybe true, um, but it is a combination we're using uh, well, okay? So, most of it, I think is going to be well, uh, and then aquarium or municipal aquarium uh, water. Um, so, uh, and I think predominantly well and then, um, aquarium, but >> Okay. >> So, hopefully it it's it's I don't know if that's actually true, but hopefully in this case it it won't be. Um, there's an outside chance, um, you know, again, we're we're we're looking at all the options based on the timing of trying to get this open as soon as possible. Uh, we're just pricing out pool water if we had to, uh, but that's that's sort of a distant uh, uh, idea if we had to, but I think we'll get
152it done with what we traditionally do with well and municipal water. >> How long on average does it take to fill? >> Great question. Uh, unsure at this point. It's going to be the better part of a full day, 8 hours of trying to fill that. Yeah. >> Thank you. >> All right. Any other comments or questions? Other than glad to see there is a light at the end of the tunnel for this. It seems like All right. Uh, item three. >> Uh, item three. Another uh, great um item to discuss. This is our Standard & Poor's bond rating. We recently went out to sell bonds. The town received an AA+ bond rating from Standard & Poor's rating agency. Rating agency. This is one level below the highest rating of AAA. Um, so on Wednesday,
153June 10th, the town entered the bond market to issue $22 million of debt. The sale was better than anticipated, yielding the town an interest rate of 3.49%. Uh, two other And this is notable because two other Connecticut towns, Westport and West Hartford, both with AAA ratings, sold their bond at a rate of 3.42. Uh, so we're very I am very pleased with that. The sale also resulted in the town receiving a premium of 1.2 million, which will help boost the town's debt management fund that will go directly into the debt management fund, which is part of a great process in terms of sale that helps us manage over over time, which is so both a great interest rate and a premium that we were able to derive because our bonds are AA+. So. >> And
154can you state whether you or the finance director, you know, when you say a premium, what what is that? Like what is it? Just in case anyone doesn't know what it is. >> [laughter] >> I mean, Bob Bob today what I I think it just in layman's term, because of the quality of the general obligation bonds in in government, that and the and the timing, a lot of it is timing and we we just knocked on wood, we had some great timing entering the market when we did, but there are agencies out there that will pay a premium to hold these bonds. >> Right. >> that's that's what >> [laughter] >> Thank you. >> Yeah, it it it's just you you you want it you institutions other organizations want to hold these bonds in their
155portfolio. So, and again we're good right. So, it's only and it's it's it's 22 million and when you think of the the the larger bond market, this is a you know, a sliver. So, you know, people are going to pay want to pay a premium to say, "Okay, I want that quality." >> Yeah. >> And they're going to purchase them. >> Okay. Well, good news. Any questions or comments? All right, item four. >> Item number four, the water pollution control annual meeting. That's uh um again, that time of year. So, it's part of that schedule. The town council need to set an annual meeting date. I'm suggesting the date for 2026 should be August 17th. There's a new item under item under new business to set that annual meeting date. That's just part of our
156annual annual process. So, um that's an item under new business. >> All right, any questions? Comments regarding the annual meeting the water pollution control authority. All right, number five. >> Five is the recreation and youth services van. Um you know, as part of the fiscal year 2027 capital improvement plan, the town council allocated 53,100 for the purchase of a new 2026 Ford Transit 350 XL 12-passenger van. And the youth services department has attained a quote for the purchase from Gengras Ford LLC totaling 52,814 and 30 cents. I'm recommending the council award bid 2027-02 recreation and youth services van to Gengras Ford LLC of Plainville, Connecticut under state contract number 24PSX0110 in the amount of $52,814.30. And there is an item under new business to make that award. >> All right. Any comments or questions regarding
157the van? >> [snorts] >> Okay. I guess financial dashboard is next. >> And it is unremarkable. Um it is right on target with what we would expect. The revenues are in line and our expenditures, I'll start there first. Expenditures just under the two-year average. We're slightly under and Board of Education is right on. And not much to report there with respect to expenditures. Next we have the overtime budgets. Again, not much has has changed. Police side, they're running a little bit under on the dispatch, but it looks like they'll carry through on the regular police overtime through the end of the year. So I don't see any problems there. We've already highlighted the issues with roadway and overtime expenditures. No changes there since the summer hit the I mean the winter plowing schedule and storms
158that we had. So nothing to report there. The trend in solid waste and recycling is the same that we are under on solid waste and trending slightly over on our tonnage for recycling. Revenue side, again, fine. You know, right at the two-year just slightly above the two-year average. So nothing to out of the ordinary to report there. Our fund balance, same numbers unchanged. Again, just a footnote, but uh one of the things on the call with the rating agency talking about our plan for fund balance. I think you know, I heard them ask a couple of follow-up questions to that. So, noteworthy that our financial house is in order. They see no you know, no problem with it. And then we you know, we were uh uh I I I think in this in this
159climate looking at other towns receiving a downgrade um that we were able to hold true. So, I think it's a solid AA+ rating that we got. And I think that's obviously due to the uh the fiscal team, management, and what the council's doing in terms of setting policy or following policy recommendations. So, that all comes through in in those conversations. Um and that's pretty much it. I think you know, special revenue funds is nothing to report there. Uh nothing out of the ordinary and uh the major projects are uh as as the uh middle school moves along, that'll be going out to to bid uh shortly. So, there's really nothing uh else to report. Um and uh I don't want to put Rob on the spot cuz I didn't ask him, but I know there
160was a question about um previous school reimbursement. And I think that is again one of those things that the state just you know, holds us up. Uh >> Yeah. >> We're at their mercy in terms of doing that. But, we have a representative in the room, so you know. Um we're working on it. And I know I know Rebecca is working on that as well. So, we've been in contact talking about that. So, other than that, I I think it's uh pretty unremarkable. We're in good shape. >> All right. Um Any comments or questions regarding the town manager's report? >> Yes. >> The streets that have been repaved, I notice are getting marked for getting cut up. Are they going to get repaved completely when we're done? >> Well, I don't think they will be
161completely from the entire road. I think they've got to do in most cases do a uh >> Like whatever half they're on? >> Yeah, whatever half they're on. >> So, in other words, for 20 years we're going to have to drive on patched roads. >> well, I would I would think not 20 years, but it you're right, it could be in some cases. It's unfortunately, but yes, the utilities don't always coordinate effectively. They coordinate with us, but then they change their schedules, and so it's it's maddening, and I understand your concern and your frustration because that is ours, and we're trying to work through that process. Um But yeah, it looks like Frankenstein out there, you know, it's it's all carved up, and it's just it's ugly. I I agree with you 100%, but um
162I can't I can't prevent the utilities from doing the work they want to do. Whether it's on our road, and they're doing the same to the to the state of Connecticut. And I mean, just there's plenty of examples, but I'm not sure what the answer is other than a legislative fix. I don't know. It's a >> All right, what what >> It's beyond my It's beyond my level to do that. >> What What's the excuse for the railroad tracks? On Broad Street. >> Sad I don't know, but I I think if you're talking about repair, that repair is probably going to come after the repair here by the Municipal Center. And we can take a look at at whether or not they're going to back in. If they're not, then we can we can we
163can certainly look at paving. >> Okay. I know just, you know, Route 10, you know, they're digging up Route 10 between, you know, the CVS and going headed towards the YMCA. I I did ask the question, and the the answer I got was the state requires the company or whatever utility company is digging up the road to you know, essentially I guess the northbound side northbound side of Route 10 would get completely repaved. You know, the southbound side isn't been touched and this did get repaved what 2 years not even 2 years ago. Um, but they are required for that northbound lane you know, to to repave the whole thing. So >> I just I just think it it's rather ridiculous the way it's worked out that they've wound up working on roads that they
164have that we planned and >> Uh, and that's that's the answer the state gave me is that they try to work with the utility companies as best they can before they repave, but unfortunately it doesn't always work out that way, which we've had the same issue in town with some of our town roads. But yeah, they they are required to repave that complete side that they're working on and not just the strip that they dug up. But they also don't do it until they're completely done with whatever project they're doing, you know, so that's that's going to take a little while it sounds like. >> And unfortunately, Mr. Chairman, is sometimes it's it's the timing and then if they don't finish in the fall like I mean the issues we had with with Whiting Street
165and yeah, it carries into another another season depending on when the asphalt plants close and they just don't want to do it in the winter. >> All right. Any other questions or comments? Um, with the consensus of the council before we open up to happenings the the state rep is here tonight. She did have something she wanted to share. Um, and I'll ask if you don't mind I know you had an announce not announcement, but something to share with the public. >> Thank you. So I just wanted to provide a brief update regarding Aquarian's proposed rate increase um, currently before Pura. As many of you know, it's been a significant concern across Connecticut, Aquarion's request for approximately 88 million in additional revenue, which represents an average rate increase of about 42%. Several of my legislative
166colleagues and I recently submitted a statement to Pura outlining our concerns regarding the size of the proposed increase and the impact that it can have on our communities. This was a bipartisan letter that was submitted from around here. It was myself, Vincent Martin, Senator Sampson. There was 57 of us that signed on to this. So, I just wanted to and I'll make it quick cuz I see the time, but I wanted to read you the letter and just to give you a little bit of the background and just tell you about an event that's coming up. We submit this comment in strong opposition to the notice of intent filed by Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut in which the company announced its intention to seek a staggering rate increase of approximately 88 million, roughly 42% over
167currently authorized revenues. We urge the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, Pura, to subject this application to the most rigorous scrutiny possible, reject every single dollar of it that is not justified, and protect the nearly 688,000 Connecticut residents who depend on Aquarion for safe and affordable drinking water. Connecticut families are already struggling with the rising costs of living, groceries, housing, energy, and health care costs have all increased substantially in recent years, straining household budgets, particularly for low-and-moderate income residents. A 42% increase in water rates would seriously compound these hardships, especially for the most vulnerable members of our communities. Water is not a discretionary expense. It is a fundamental human need and a public health necessity. Pura must not treat this proceeding as a routine rate case. The scale of what Aquarion is asking for demands exceptional scrutiny.
168The requested 88 million in total new revenues comprises 72 million to address claimed operating revenue deficiencies and an additional 16 million in plant additional revenues. This is one of the largest utility rate filings Connecticut has seen in memory. We are deeply concerned that a burden of Aquarion's financial and operational decisions will fall squarely on the backs of ordinary rate payers rather than on the company's current corporate parent Eversource. Notably, Eversource posted a 1.69 billion with a B profit last year, delivered a 23% increase in shareholder returns, and paid its chief executive 14.9 million, a roughly 20% raise, one of the most profitable utility companies in America. Aquarion's notice seeks to re-litigate the 2022 rate case, framing PURA's decision to order a 4 million rate decrease as a mistake that pushed costs down the road, and
169now forces this filing. We firmly disagree with that characterization. PURA's decision rejecting Aquarion's requested 35.3 million in 2022 and ordering its rate reduction was based on a thorough review of record and the company's actual demonstrated costs. Aquarion now argues that the interval between 2013 and 2022 rate filings was driven by favorable tax developments that only temporarily suppressed cost. It does not adequately explain this claim. Even if it were true, it does not excuse the company from proper regulatory accountability. A regulated utility that enjoys a period of reduced costs should pass those savings to rate payers as PURA effectively ordered, not treat them as a private windfall to be recovered through future rate increases when conditions become less favorable. PURA should reject any attempt by the company to use this proceeding to effectively reopen and reverse
170the 2022 decision. Aquarion states that since 2022 it has invested more than 448 million in water utility infrastructure improvements that are not currently reflected in rates. The company sites investments in main storage tanks, treatment plant upgrades, dam improvements, and pump stations. However, the magnitude of these claimed investments, nearly half a billion dollars, requires independent and rigorous verification by PURA's technical staff and the Office of Consumer Counsel. PURA should scrutinize whether each investment was prudently incurred, whether costs were reasonable and competitive, and whether any expenditures were duplicative, premature, or otherwise not the product of sound utility management. Ratepayers cannot be expected to simply take the company's word that 448 million in spending was necessary and efficient. Aquarion's notice points to a new PFAS requirement as a driver of increased costs. PFAS contamination is a genuine and
171serious public health problem. However, Eversource does not explain how these claimed costs justify the requested rate increase. Additionally, PURA should examine whether and to what extent Aquarion has pursued all available legal remedies, including potential litigation against PFAS manufacturers, to recover PFAS remediation costs before seeking to pass those costs entirely to ratepayers. PFAS contamination was caused by the manufacturers and users of these chemicals, not by Connecticut Water customers. To the extent Aquarion has viable claims against polluters, it should be required to pursue them aggressively before asking ratepayers to absorb the full cost of remediation. Just finishing up the given the size and scope of the proposed rate increase, we urge PURA to conduct a robust public hearings in communities across Connecticut where ratepayers will be most acutely affected. Residents deserve the opportunity to testify in their
172own communities about the impact of these increases on their lives, and PURA must take those voices seriously in its deliberations. We also encourage PURA to ensure that the Office of Consumer Counsel is fully resourced to participate meaningfully in in this proceeding and to advocate vigorously on behalf of residential ratepayers. The interests of Aquarion shareholders and its corporate parent must not be allowed to outweigh the interest of the Connecticut public. Um that was submitted by 57 of us. I have a copy of it um for you guys and can forward it to you as well, but I did want to let you know that there's going to be two public hearings. One's going to be in New Milford on June 17th, and one is going to be virtual on July 15th. So, in preparation of those
173public hearings, I'm going to be having an event at the Plainville Library this Monday night at 6:30 p.m. >> Next Monday night. >> Uh sorry, a week from today. >> Yes. One week from today. Um it's June 22nd, 6:30 p.m. And the purpose of that event will be to uh discuss this public hearing and for me to explain to people how to get involved in it. Uh you can show up in person, you can show up virtually, but you can also submit um you know, your complaint. And this is an opportunity it's not only on the rate increase, but this is an opportunity to talk about any water quality issues that you're having, and I know that I've heard from some constituents and frequently hear when I'm around town or scroll through in Plainville talks
174that it's a pretty consistent issue here. So, this letter lists a a bunch of reasons for a lot of us to be upset, but I honestly sat in the room and I was like, wait, wait, wait. You guys drink your water? You aren't buying house filters, you're not feeling like you have to buy bottled water. Like towns like Plainville were really upset, right? Like we're going to we're looking at a rate increase and many people in town don't even feel like they would consume the water. >> [snorts] >> So, this will be an opportunity to have your voice heard on any water quality issues, um as well as to put in um a written format. I want to make sure that we are as accessible as possible um for that meeting um as well as
175submitting complaints to other agencies. So, at this meeting on June 22nd, I will have staff there that will be available and on hand to scan in any complaints. So, if you're not computer savvy or tech savvy, if you want to write up a complaint, we'll [clears throat] scan it in and get it over to PURA um as well as I reached out to Aquarion last week and um talked to them about the number of complaints. They said they aren't really receiving too many complaints. DPH is saying they aren't really receiving too many complaints and I'm wondering if on the Aquarion side if people were complaining for a while and then when they felt like it was falling on deaf ears, maybe they leaned back a little bit from that and um as far as DPH
176goes, I know that I've dealt with them in other areas and it is hard because there are so many um different areas of DPH when somebody calls um to make sure that they're calling the specific area. So, what I've been spending the week compiling is from Aquarion right now, if you were going to um let them know about a concern, you'd have to go on the website and fill out one of their fill-in forms instead of having like a direct email or direct mailing address, direct phone number. So, I'm compiling that information for Aquarion as well as that uh information for the drinking water section over at DPH where so you'll have a real phone number and email or a mailing address so you can send through your concerns and you know like I'll be
177telling people on 22nd anybody that would like to email their concerns if they're whether they're emailing it for the public hearing or they're emailing it in other avenues to have their voice heard if they want to CC me on the email our office will also be tracking those complaints just to make sure that everybody's heard and we can get a better idea of what the actual concerns are as far as I know I've heard a lot about either sediment and appliances or color taste or of the water so I just wanted to give that update and hope to see you there on Monday night at 6:30. >> All right, thank you. Um happenings >> Thank you very much. Can't forget the happenings. >> No, we can't. >> [clears throat] >> All right, I do have
178some happenings to share with you today. The United Plainville and the Queen And Nzinga Central will be hosting the fourth annual Juneteenth celebration this Friday, June 19th. The celebration will take place at Norton Park this year from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. You could learn about the history behind Juneteenth and celebrate with residents and local officials. This is a free event and will also feature music and performances. Spring bulk pickup is scheduled to end on Monday, June 29th. Plainville has an on-demand policy for the collection of bulk pickup. Residents who currently have curbside waste and recycling collection are eligible to receive one bulk pickup per calendar year free of charge for acceptable large items that do not fit within the normal waste collection. You can visit the town of Plainville website at www.plainvillect.com for a
179complete list of acceptable bulk items and instructions on how to request a pickup. The next opportunity for bulky waste collection after this will be in September and that usually runs from after Labor Day through end of October. >> [clears throat] >> The Town Clerk's office reminds residents that all dogs over 6 months old must be licensed for the 2026-2027 year. Renewals must be completed in person or by mail by June 30th. If a dog's rabies certificate is current, licenses may also be renewed online at www.plainvillect.com. First-time licenses and renewals with with expired rabies certificates required updated rabies documentation before processing. License fees are $8 for neutered or spayed dogs and $19 for unaltered dogs. A late fee of $1 per month will be imposed after June 30th. For more information, you can call the Town
180Clerk's office at 860-793-0221, extension 7153. Join the library this summer for the plant a seed, read summer reading program. All ages are invited to participate in either the children's, teens, or adult program for a chance to win some great prizes including gift cards from local businesses, live seedlings and plants, and so much more. In addition to registering for the summer reading, there will be a robust lineup of summer programs. On Wednesday, June 24th, we kick off the summer reading program for everybody. Starting at 10:00 a.m. with a touch a truck story time featuring a themed story time followed by opportunity to head outside and climb aboard some real trucks. All ages are welcome, no registrations required. 1:00 p.m. teen ice cream and karaoke party. Start the summer off with an outdoor ice cream and karaoke
181party. This is for grades 6 to 12 and registration is required. And then rounding it all off at 6:00 p.m. that same evening is the story of the Amistad, Connecticut's role in the fight for freedom. The organization Discovering Amistad will take attendees on a journey as we follow 53 Africans who fight who's fight for freedom led to historic legal battle against slavery, and learn how Connecticut played a key role in the abolitionist movement. Registration is required for that event. And finally, the Senior Center and for all information on Senior Center programs, you can call the Plainville Senior Center at 860-747-5728, and all programs are free and open to the public unless otherwise indicated. Grandparents raising grandchildren will be tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16th from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This is an opportunity to share resources, ideas,
182struggles, joys, and more with your fellow grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Veteran social hours on Tuesday, June 23rd at 10:00 a.m. This is an a monthly opportunity to connect and share stories and uh enjoy great company. All veterans and their spouses are welcome. The Vision Support Group is meeting on Tuesday, June 23rd at 10:30 a.m. Resources, support, and connection for those with low vision, no vision, or anything in between. Learn how to lower your electric bill on Wednesday, June 24th at 2:00 p.m. Tips and tricks will be shared for lowering your electric bill and understanding the electric supply market. And finally, pre-diabetes and diabetes support and education group on Monday, June 29th from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Whether you are uh suspect you have pre-diabetes or are diagnosed with diabetes, or newly diagnosed with
183diabetes, these sessions are for you. You can receive information, tips, tricks, and support, and new topics are presented each month. So, that is all I have for happenings today. >> All right, thank you. Um, is there any other questions or comments regarding the town manager's report or the happenings report? Okay. Thank you very much. Uh, thank you for hanging in there everyone. Uh, now is the time for public comment. Anyone who wishes to address the council may do so. Please step forward to the podium. Give your name and address. You'll have 3 minutes to make your comments. Uh, the first ring means you have about 30 seconds left. The second ring means that the 3 minutes has run out. Ms. Irving. >> Wendy Irving? >> Uh, just uh, hit the button. Yes, there you go.
184>> Wendy Irving, 9 Weatherstone Ridge Road. I'm speaking to you tonight about the PLCD. Probably my last little rant on this. Um, I still have a concern that the original issue that was identified were modifications made to the PLCD without approval. What exactly were these changes? And were there any zoning changes that were approved once those changes to the PLCD occurred? I'm asking the town council to provide the public with that information. And then with those zoning, if there was any modifications or zoning changes made on those modifications to the PLCD, were all of those legal? That was a question that we came up with a concern as to why the PLCD was changed originally, and that was the problem. And all that has been accomplished in all of this time is that we we
185have made some pretty words, and we've updated the PLCD with a few changes that we thought we'd like to have. But we didn't address the original issue. Okay? We spent a lot of time doing nice things. I'm not saying they weren't modifications that maybe should be there, but the issue that needed to be addressed about changes made, and was there anything done once those changes were made, has never been identified to me at least to me. I mean, I don't know if it's been identified to the public, but I think before we close out this PC POCD with all these nice little word changes, we should go and address the original issue that occurred. And that should be identified and announced to the public, because I do not believe the public knows about these changes
186to the POCD. I also believe that most of Plainville, Connecticut does not even know we have a POCD, and what that POCD means to decisions being made throughout the commissions of Plainville, Connecticut. Thank you. >> All right, thank you. Uh anyone else wish to address the council? I'm seeing Mr. Bucci raised his hand split second before you did. You'll be next, Ms. Ginay. >> Dan Bucci, 62 Metacomet Road. I'm going to take my question and inspirations from from Rachel. Uh I applaud you for for asking questions, cuz if you don't know something, possibly somebody else doesn't know either, right? It's not just you. So, we should get answers to what we want. So, I'm again I'm taking this from the town website for process of adoption for municipal plan for POCD. Plan must be filed
187in the office of the town clerk, 35 days before PZC public hearing. Now, you said the public hearing is going to be July 14th. >> Yes. >> Okay, so my math not great, but I think we don't it's not 35 days. >> But I don't think that's the provision we're under. I think >> Not you. The for the POCD to be to have a public hearing, it needs to be filed it says here with the town clerk 35 days before the public hearing. Also >> I'll have to check on that there. I can't >> Okay, and and and also it says the plan must be placed on the town website 35 days in advance of the public hearing for adoption by the planning and zoning commission. >> All right, well, we can definitely look at
188that. I mean Yeah, that's what >> so you can't do July or they can't do July 14th. >> and and we could certainly talk we will find out for sure. Um Well from our side, we have once we get the recommendations from P&Z, we had 65 days and that's what I was in my head that's what I was thinking. I kind of >> Yeah. >> you know, didn't listen enough. So I appreciate we will definitely look into that and find out >> Okay, great. Thank you. >> true cuz we would have to make a change then. >> Yes. >> You're right. All right, Mrs. Janney And just we did we're taking notes on that as far as checking to make see if that's something that we need to follow. >> Good evening, Sandra Janney, 87
189Mattituck Road. Um thank you for taking the time to go step-by-step over the POCD recommendations that you're going to be giving to planning and zoning. It's sad we got to this point. We came with an honest request and that was for the POCD to be returned to its original wording. [clears throat] Uh, and we know and you know how this all happened. Um, so we're not fooling anybody here. Um, the residents now know as well what has happened. Um, planning and zoning made the choice instead of just changing it back. They wanted to go step by step by step, page by page by page through the whole thing. What was the point? You're going to be doing this again in 2 years. We just asked for a simple bring it back to what it was.
190Um, you we should also shouldn't be here because we don't have a town planner. Mr. Bucci stepped up and I give him, you know, kudos for that. He's certainly had to wear a lot of hats. But I watched some of the PL the some of the planning and zoning meetings and some of the things that were said basically he said, "Well, you people the residents are not going to get what they want. The people are not going to get what they want." What what people was he talking about? He also said we were dreaming. I don't think any of us were dreaming. I I wasn't dreaming when, you know, I sat with, you know, a fellow neighbors to try and figure out what we could do to try and bring the POC back to its
191original form. So, I guess we're here at this point. No turning back now. But I did want to address another thing. Um, I do see our our good neighbors here tonight from Tolcon. Um they always come and say that they're our good neighbors. When the POCD was changed illegally the last time within 60 days they applied for zoning change. And yes, we know they pulled it back. Okay? But they're here again and they're very interested. So, what's going to happen now once you submit once planning and zoning submits this to uh Croc are they going to wait and see what Croc's recommendations were? Cuz they didn't last time. They didn't wait. That's really all I have to say, but hopefully we get some good words back. But we're not hopeful. Thank you. >> All right,
192thank you. Anyone else wish to address the council this evening? >> Good evening, um Chairman Wasoricko. William Gawelczyk, 783 Main Street. This is directed to Mr. Paulus. You had received the um communication from Tolcon about the air quality. Are you going to discuss that tonight or no? >> Uh yes, sir. Everyone uh has a copy and I'll be addressing that under other discussions of interest. >> Okay. And and I can just add maybe for the benefit for the public that the planning and zoning commission did restore the changes that had been made to the POCD. They did restore them several months ago. Yes. So, that's just for the the public's benefit. >> All right. And we did just you know, we did get the letter today, but we are going to it's going to be
193we will acknowledge it and and talk a little bit about it later. Um and just with a couple of the comments, is there is there any way for the council or not the council or just to put together a list of what changes, whether it was an administrative change. I know we haven't gone through the actual amendment changes yet. We're in the middle of that, but is there any way to document that so we can provide something to people that show what we did? Is that appropriate? >> Some committee some committee minutes. >> All right, so there Okay. All right. >> Dig that up. >> Okay. Cuz I think that would help. Um anyone else wish to address the council this evening who hasn't done so already? Last call. Yes. >> Good evening. Nicole Palmieri,
19420 Julie Road. I just have a question comment, and I don't know what you guys did before the meeting cuz I wasn't here. But in chapter nine, under two, the original text talks about um two means of access for emergency response. And then the change just said that they have to take into consideration for emergency response. And are are we making any Are we recommending any changes to that cuz that kind of concerns me? >> Um let me go back to my notes unless someone else can get there first. Good. >> It does say in the in the proposed with consideration for emergency response. >> Right, but in the text now, it says maintain two means of access for emergency response. So there's Sorry, go ahead, Rosemary. >> Oh, we don't know Let me just
195finish. >> No, I was just going to say so it it makes it less It Yeah, it That's a little concerning. >> Yeah, um Mr. Chair, yeah. >> Yes, go ahead. >> Yeah, we did ask um John Bossi about that tonight. And apparently uh with the current some of the current work they're doing with the the potential PDD up there. There's some environmental and wetlands considerations that have affected the planning for the road. And they don't know if they'd be able to do the two points because of those considerations. >> Okay, but if they are are like emergency I don't know. It just concerns me that like they said that two access points for emergency and now they'll just take it into consideration. >> notes and and to ask the question tonight cuz I thought
196why are we like we know like sort of like watering this down? >> Yes. >> And he did say cuz it was for environmental reasons in terms of what they can do in terms of access points. >> Okay. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you. Um anyone else wish to address the council before we close public comment? >> Mr. Chair, may I make a I I'd like to respond to or add on to what Attorney Galsky had brought up. I believe he was referring to the administrative changes, the things that were changed in the POCD that were not part of the original text amendments for the PDD. That that original I forget how many there were, that list. Correct? Is that what you meant? Yeah. >> Okay. Well, we'll work on getting some more specific
197detail, which it sounds like it is in writing somewhere that we can organize it in a way to make it >> Right. And it's it's you know, it's there were some major errors that were made after we gave our input and after the planning and zoning adopted them. Problem came when um uh they were posted by staff on the website and uh they didn't they didn't reflect what had actually been voting on. But we do have those have been corrected, thank god, and we're really done with that, yeah. But we can have that in the minutes, too. >> All right. Well, thank you for your comments, everyone. I appreciate you hanging in there, especially those of you that have been here since 6:00 with us. Um Old business, uh we are not going to be
198talking about the canal or the Heritage Trail tonight. Uh we can move now to new business. Um and one before I entertain any motions, I mean, technically we're not voting on anything regarding the plan of conservation and development and the recommendation back to planning and zoning, is it something that we just skip? We just don't Do we table it? Do we skip it? I always stop if we >> I'd recommend tabling it until Wednesday night. >> Okay. All right. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes. >> Mr. Chair, I'd like to make a motion to table item number one, amendments to plan of conservation and development, chapters nine and 10. >> Second. >> Motion and a second. All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? All right, so the we'll obviously that will be part of
199Wednesday's special meeting, provided that everything works out. Um item two. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> I motion to adopt an ordinance entitled ordinance establishing fourth quarter transfers for the fiscal year ending June 30th, 2026. >> Second. >> Motion and a second. Any comments or questions? All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? Motion carries, item number three. >> Mr. Chair. >> Oh, go ahead, Beth. >> Councilwoman Tonkins. >> Okay, thank you. Motion to appropriate $596,000 with general fund unassigned fund balance account number 0100-000-3211 0-0000 with $207,600 to interfund transfer out account number 0100-840 55511-0000 and $388,400 to interfund transfer out account number 0100-840-555-12-0000. >> Second. >> All right, motion and a second. Any comments or questions? All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Um item four. >>
200Mr. Chair. >> Go ahead. >> Yes, motion to acknowledge the implementation of the recommended hours of operation for the Plainville Senior Center effective August 31st, 2026. >> Second. >> Motion and a second. Any comments or questions? All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Item five. >> Mr. Chair. >> Yes, go ahead. >> Motion to award bid number 2027-02, Recreation and Youth Services Van, under state contract number 24PSX0110, to Jangraw's Ford LLC, Plainville, Connecticut, in the amount of $52,814.30. >> Second. >> Motion and a second. Any comments or questions? All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Uh item six. >> Mr. Chair. >> Go ahead. >> Motion to [clears throat] set the Water Pollution Control Authority annual meeting for Monday, August 17th, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the
201Municipal Center. >> Second. >> And motion and a second. Any comments or questions on item six? >> [snorts] >> All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? Motion carries and item seven. >> Mr. Chair. >> Go ahead. >> Motion to approve the tax refunds as listed on the agenda. >> Second. >> All right, motion and a second. Any comments on the tax refunds? All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Okay, that concludes new business. Um we're up to other discussions of interest. Uh we do have the letter that we >> Yes. >> referenced earlier. >> Yep. Uh every member should have a a copy of the letter submitted today from Tilcon. In essence, it addresses the um AKRF uh sampling that we're going to be doing with them uh for
202air quality. And uh it's rather uh lengthy and uh goes through uh quite a bit, so I'm not expecting uh the council to be able to digest everything on the spot. Uh so I'll certainly um take uh comments and questions that council has after reading and digesting this. They can they can uh feed to me and I can certainly circle back and add it to a future agenda item. Um I have not yet um scheduled any of the sampling. We were ready to, uh but then it was a a scheduling issue. We're kind of lined up um in terms of fitting it in the baseline sampling uh before blasting. So um none of that has has uh gotten off the ground yet, so we're still working on calendars, but in the meantime you can go
203forward and digest this and happy to answer any questions. >> All right. So yeah, if everyone could just take a look at the letter. I know we just had it in front of us tonight, but um you know, even before we are getting together Wednesday, if you have any questions, please >> Yes. >> get it to the town manager. >> I've let you take it, and I don't expect a you know you know comment at this point, but we'll go through it on we can discuss it on >> Okay. All right. Um any other discussions of interest? >> That's all I have, Mr. Chairman. >> Anyone else? Um we do have a matter appropriate for executive session. Do we anticipate any votes coming out of executive session? No? >> No. >> We don't think so.
204Um so, at this point in the meeting, um you know, we are going into executive session. We will be adjourning right from executive session. We don't anticipate a vote coming out of executive session, so um again, thank you for sticking in there. I know this was a pretty long night, but uh thank you for participating, and um we'll see you. Our next regular meeting is July 7th? 20th. July 20th, but we are looking to have the special meeting Wednesday night, so is there a motion to go into executive session? >> So moved. >> Second. >> And that's just uh related to potential acquisition of real property pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 1-206d. All those in favor? >> Aye. >> Any opposed? All right, motion carries.