The council discussed Ordinance 65-1, which aims to raise the meter parking rate to 25 cents for 20 minutes and extend parking meter requirements to include Saturdays. This measure intends to boost revenue and manage parking space availability downtown. The ordinance received unanimous approval from the council.

Another topic was the substantial increase in water and sewer rates, encapsulated in Ordinance 24-08. Acknowledging the difficulty this poses for residents, the council emphasized the essential nature of the infrastructure repairs and compliance with regulatory changes. Despite the significant rate increase, the ordinance was passed with unanimous consent.

Pool membership fees were also a point of debate, with Ordinance 2024-09 addressing the need for economic data to support fee decisions and comparisons with neighboring town fees. Transparency regarding council members’ plans for pool memberships was requested; one council member disclosed their intention to renew their pool membership. The ordinance received the council’s support and was approved.

The council addressed concerns regarding the setting of pool fees. Discussions revolved around the financial implications for the town and the operation of the pool if the increases were not approved. The need for a more data-driven, strategic approach to fee-setting was emphasized, and mid-season surveys to gather feedback on pool operations and guest experiences were suggested.

Public participation was a notable aspect of the meeting, with residents expressing their viewpoints on various issues. One public commenter highlighted the importance of an operations vehicle for the rescue squad, emphasizing the necessity of having a well-equipped, air-conditioned space for emergency responses. Opposition to Senate Bill 2347, which could affect impervious surfaces and stormwater control, was voiced by another resident.

The designation of the entire Bloomfield Avenue Corridor as an area in need of rehabilitation was a discussion point. The council debated the timing of the resolution to ensure public input, while others believed the public had ample opportunity to comment. This designation aims to encourage property upgrades without overdevelopment. The council also considered the impact of zoning changes outlined in the master plan.

Various projects and initiatives were updated, including the Fairview Avenue well project, which is expected to go out to bid soon. The project is set to benefit from competitive bidding and principal forgiveness from the ibank. The Peckman River stabilization efforts and several road projects were also discussed, with the Durent Avenue project and Douglas Place project going out to bid.

The council members discussed grant applications for Everett Field, CDBG, the local Recreation Improvement Grant, and Green Acres. Gratitude was expressed towards the Shade Tree Commission for their revised tree recommendations and planting strip volunteerism.

Budget-related matters were broached with the introduction of the municipal budget and an ordinance to approve the cap index. The council appreciated the efforts of the CFO, auditor, department heads, and management in preparing the budget.

The meeting also touched upon the rehabilitation report for the Bloomfield Avenue Corridor, focusing on declaring identified properties as areas in need of rehabilitation. Criteria for this designation were discussed, and potential exemptions and abatements were outlined to incentivize property reinvestment.

Other ordinance discussions included the second reading of an ordinance replacing the existing stormwater management ordinance. Concerns about homeowners’ burdens were raised, and the need for clear stipulations was debated. The council also discussed the possibility of adding specific language to ordinances to clarify definitions and avoid loopholes.