Public Meetings - Danbury, Connecticut

On April 14, 2026, the Government Ad Hoc Committee for the Budget, chaired by Joe Britain, met to review proposed budgets for several city departments. The committee heard presentations from department heads, asked clarifying questions focused on budget figures, and ultimately voted to recommend the full budget to the City Council. A separate motion to authorize a 3% salary increase for the Register of Voters also passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Probate Court (page 67): Judge presented the proposed budget. The committee noted the office typically operates under budget due to changes in publication costs and the absence of a large ad buy previously used. No questions from ex-officio members. - Harbor Management Authority (page 1194): The executive director reported on the GrassCard program, stating that approximately 200 invasive plants were removed each of the past three seasons, with a similar target for the current year. The cost is covered by their reserve budget, not by DEEP. Member municipalities contribute equally—each $132,850—and all five towns have been supportive. A councilmember asked whether any of the $32,000 city allocation goes to First Light or permitting; the director clarified it does not, but First Light contributes a voluntary $50,000 and has helped with vessel purchases. - Conservation Commission (page 111): No questions. - Fair Rent Commission ($45): No questions. - Libraries (Long Ridge and Public): The library director stated that all library programming is funded by the Friends organization, not the city. The Friends contributed $135,000 this year, up from $100,000 five years ago. A councilmember praised the multiple services provided. - Planning (page 207): Discussion centered on GIS scanning and mapping. The department currently uses consultant services rather than a full-time GIS staffer. A councilmember asked about the status of document scanning; the response noted it was part of a separate project from the EDO, not this budget. - Registrar of Voters (page 69): The registrar outlined election budgeting challenges. A primary is expected in 2026, but its size is unknown; referendums are not budgeted for in advance. The line item 54301 (office equipment) includes costs for election software from Elections Systems & Software, which have increased significantly—the registrar noted charges were “scored up 12 times” under the state contract. Postage costs rose because the state now requires Spanish translations for legal notices, which must also pass through a TAC committee review. The department issued over 3,000 notices in the last two years. The registrar confirmed they no longer own a voting machine because it was too expensive. - Town Clerk: Revenue for the clerk’s office is projected at $5.8 million this year, with the mayor’s office forecasting an increase to $6.2 million next year, partly due to increased court fees. A councilmember asked whether the department can provide services under the mayor’s proposed budget; the clerk replied it “depends on future elections.” There is a $27,000 gap between the department’s request and the mayor’s proposal. - Corporation Counsel (page 96): The corporation counsel reported that two new attorneys have replaced retirees, allowing more work to be done in-house and reducing outside legal spending. Professional services ($800,000) cover specialized litigation, tax appeals, and personnel matters. The mayor’s office confirmed the goal is to continue expanding in-house capacity to further reduce reliance on outside counsel. Salaries are budgeted at $55,000 (likely a typo—actual salary line is higher). - Mayor’s Office (pages 60–63, including discretionary fund, annual report, city memberships, and economic development): The mayor’s office clarified that the $30,000 lobbying line item will now be paid from the city’s finance department and then reimbursed by the Board of Education to streamline payments. Lobbyists provide weekly tracking updates during session. Regarding budget line items: educational credits ($5,000) are for potential higher education reimbursement for staff; training courses ($5,000) cover certifications; conference expenses ($5,000) are for attending conferences. Professional services were moved to contractual services to cover website maintenance and marketing through a new developer. A councilmember noted that travel mileage decreased by $4,000 in economic development but only increased by $1,000 in the mayor’s office, reflecting reorganization. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 – 3% Raise for Register of Voters: A motion was made and seconded to authorize a 3% salary increase for the Register of Voters, effective December 1, 2026, and July 1, 2027. The motion passed unanimously. - Motion 2 – Budget Recommendation to Full Council: A motion was made and seconded to recommend the full budget as presented to the City Council. The motion passed unanimously. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned without further discussion.

The city's Government Ad Hoc Committee, chaired by Andrea Gartner, convened on April 14, 2026, at 5:06 PM to review departmental budgets for fiscal year 2026-2027. The meeting covered purchasing, human resources, tax assessment, tax collector, information technology, labor negotiations, contingency and financing, risk management, finance, independent audit, and city treasurer. Following discussion, the committee unanimously approved the government to departmental budgets as presented. Discussion Items - Purchasing (Director Volpe): The committee reviewed the purchasing department budget, noting a 1.16% bulk increase primarily from salaries. Director Volpe reported that raising the bid threshold from $10,000 to $35,000 and the small-purchase threshold from $1,000 to $3,000 has saved time and money by reducing the need for formal sealed bids. Competitive pricing is still required. The department also administers FEMA-funded citywide emergency project procurement. - Human Resources: The HR budget aligned with the mayor's proposal. Questions focused on line items for professional services and civil service testing. Director explained that the $26,000 variance in professional services is due to standard contracts (EAP, drug testing) being incurred this spring rather than next fiscal year. The civil service line increased because this spring the department is conducting promotional testing for police and fire (lieutenant, captain, sergeant, detective), which will not recur next year as those lists are good for two years. - Tax Assessment (Director Murphy): The budget is up 5%, mostly from salaries and bar time. The capital tax recovery program, started in November 2022, has collected $755,000 since inception by using automatic license plate readers (ALPRs). The city pays a third-party company 40% of revenue collected, but because the city was the first municipality in the state to use this company, the rate is locked at 40% while others now pay 50-55%. The company averages $20,000–$30,000 per month. Director Murphy noted that state bill HB 5454 (now being folded into a Senate bill) could limit the use of ALPRs for tax enforcement, potentially decimating the program. She and others have been working with legislators to add an amendment allowing assessors to retain and use the data for assessment purposes. The city also collects over $300,000 from personal property audits conducted in-house since the office has been unable to hire a dedicated field person (last field person left three years ago). The new elderly and totally disabled tax credit program (using only half of social security) has been well-received, with many applicants switching to the more generous program. - Tax Collector (Sean): The budget mirrored the mayor's proposal. Constable use increased collections from $250,000 in prior years to $1.3 million. Constables add a 15% fee to amounts collected, but the city does not lose any tax revenue. The constables handle real estate, personal property, and some motor vehicle bills. Water and sewer liens are not yet assigned to constables but will be added with new software. The office also works with mortgage companies to pay delinquent water/sewer bills over $5,000. The oldest water/sewer lien is 12 years (15-year expiration). - Information Technology (Director Gentile): The maintenance and repair line item (office equipment) increased from $780,000 actual (FY2024-25) to a proposed $1.48 million. Chief O'Brien explained that many software licenses previously categorized as capital expenses were moved to operations for transparency - including the Munis ERP system (payroll, HR, finance) at $274,000 annually and Darktrace cybersecurity software at $70,000. These annual costs will increase 3-5% per year. All software currently in use is being paid for; there are no legacy contracts for unused software. The live broadcast of meetings on Comcast is delayed due to waiting for a Comcast technical representative. 100 new computers are in capital budget for next year. Document scanning for building department records is not yet fully funded; scanning is ongoing for planning and zoning through a separate budget. - Labor Negotiations (Corporation Counsel): The $250,000 line item covers legal fees for upcoming negotiations with DMEA (union), plus ongoing grievances. Police negotiations are close to resolution and not expected to require significant funds after July 1. - Contingency and Financing (Finance Director): The $337,525 transfer funds animal control operations; the $3 million transfer supports the capital fund. No contingency funds were used in the current fiscal year. - Risk Management and Employee Benefits (Director Garrick): The internal service fund (employee benefits and insurance) totals $26,728,676, a 16.64% increase ($3.8 million) driven primarily by a 7% increase in health insurance claims plus new full-time employee benefits. The workers' compensation fund increases 2% ($56,000) to $3,314,000 due to salary growth. Retiree benefits (health, life, dental, OPEB) increase $4 million, including a $500,000 policy increase for OPEB and $2.7 million for pension. The health insurance increase is the largest since the city switched to a self-insured plan in 2011-2012; other towns are seeing 15% increases. The city plans to hire a full-time risk manager (currently budgeted $105,000 but position vacant). - Finance Department, Independent Audit, and City Treasurer: The finance director noted plans to put the independent audit out to bid by June 1, though one potential firm lacks capacity. The grant writer position remains unfilled (showing $0). An outside firm hired for FMLA administration costs $27,400, cheaper than hiring a full-time employee. The audit is expected to be completed in June. Key Outcomes - Motion to Accept Government to Departmental Budgets: Councilman John Laughinghouse moved to accept the budgets as presented, seconded by Councilman Spain Reichel. The motion passed unanimously with all committee members voting aye. The meeting adjourned following the vote.

The Danbury Budget Ad Hoc Committee, chaired by Councilman Frank Salvatore and including Councilmen Lugi Ardano, Claire Jabor, Paul Rotello, and Mike Henry, met on April 13, 2026, to review and recommend the Health, Human Services, and Public Safety budget totaling $58,507,263. Mayor Roberto Alves, Chief of Staff Taylor O'Brien, Finance Director Dan Garrick, and staff were present. The committee aimed to efficiently review 16 departments, starting with smaller ones and saving Fire and Police for last. Discussion Items Health and Human Services (Fernanda Carvalho) - Budget request proposed a 2.79% increase over the previous year. Carvalho confirmed the budget adequately supports department operations and does not include grant revenue. She noted a contingency plan using per capita state funding as a "rainy day fund" if federal or state grants are cut. - Homeless shelter funding: $300,000 in Small Cities funding exhausted end of December, $124,000 through April; now $230,000 annually from Department of Housing (state grant, not in this budget). A separate organization runs shelters and can apply for additional grants. - Eviction line item ($124,000? unclear) covers storage of personal belongings for evicted individuals; items held 30-90 days then auctioned. The department works to prevent evictions, but some still cycle into shelter. - Grants on page 191 (about $227,000) fund specific programs: CIFC (Head Start), Danbury Youth Services (summer workers), and Center for Empowerment and Education (formerly Women’s Center). - Two positions (community health program coordinator funds) reclassified to social services specialist and health program assistant. Elderly Services (Susan) - Elderly Transportation is an allocation to the Housing Authority (no questions). Elderly Services budget: 1.61% increase, adding one FTE program assistant to support the breakfast meal program (not Meals on Wheels). Funds adequate for current and future programs. Consumer Protection and Weights & Measures (Taylor O'Brien) - Tom Nickel retired; rehiring for weights and measures specialist. Discussed whether electric vehicle charging ports will be inspected—not currently on list, but may be handled by state DCP. No other questions. Veterans (Director Hayes) - Budget with 1.61% increase, stable. Director Hayes stated he could operate with less. Hometown Heroes banner funded separately. City Center (Sean Stillman) - 2.17% increase; three FTEs plus a part-timer hired last year. Stillman reported 1,500 service requests last year, nearly half proactive, and on track to exceed that in 2026. New ordinances (health/zoning driven) will help enforcement of blight and other violations. Parking violation revenue goes to general fund, but blight fees ($20,350) are tracked separately on revenue page 48. Community Services (Melissa Stern/Taylor O'Brien) - $330,000 budget; pass-through grants to Downtown Council (City Center PILOT), United Way (social services grant process – $352,400 with $30,000 admin fee), and Danbury PAL. Grantees must report quarterly per April memo. Animal Control (Lieutenant) - $371,000 budget (1.56% increase); three FTEs (two animal control officers, one secretary), no part-time staff. Adequate for services. Airport (Mike Safranic) - Stable budget; FTEs at three. Major achievements: $9M in federal funding over five years, including $4M for new runway, lighting upgrades, vehicles, taxiway. Budget preserved despite inflation; doing more with less. Subscription membership line item ($45? actually covering calibration of LPV approach system); access control system subscription used for update last year. Usage statistics: flights equal takeoffs/landings (246 each); trending up 20% in last three months despite snow. Airport revenues (leases, tie-down fees) exceed expenditures; revenues from Red Lobster/Olive Garden leases ($300K/year), new hangar project ($5M, added to grand list). Three electric VW ID.4s obtained via grants (free); used for inspections and as security vehicle. Special Police Officer Esteban retired after 46 years; backfill being sought. HART (Taylor O'Brien) - $800,000 budget (5% increase) for operational support; advertising revenue goes to HART, not city. Bus shelter replacements on Federal and Mill Plain roads; pilot program for new transportation hubs stalled, but Kennedy shelter upgrade being discussed. Building Inspector (Jim Shuler) - $820,000 budget (0.78% increase), eight FTEs. New AI code review software (user accounts cost extra; bulk in IT budget) aims to reduce redundancies, not replace jobs. City-wide AI policy in final legal review. Records: digital since October 2019; prior records mixed paper/electronic. FOI requests consume 60-70% of secretary’s time. Scanning project piloted with grants; expensive. No statute of limitations on FOI requests; some records cannot be destroyed. Ordinance changes increased building department fees (initial $100 application fee). Building activity remains strong: on track for 9,000 inspections this year (up from 7,900 last year). Revenue increases due to fees but ebb and flow. Emergency Management (Matt Cassevecia) - $300,000 budget (4.14% increase). Contractual services increased 36.4% to cover possible loss of EMPG grant. Rental real estate line item for debris management program land lease and AT&T tower lease for police/fire communications. No FTE changes. Ambulance Fund (Matt Cassevecia) - $5.34 million (1.79% increase); zero-based budget funded by net revenue ($4.7 million) and fund reserves. No FTE changes. Line items adjusted to balance. Emergency Services Dispatch (Chief Lownsbury) - $3.24 million (2.58% increase); same staffing, no changes. Fire Department (Chief Lownsbury) - $23.88 million (5.86% increase). Adds three lieutenants and one captain in preparation for Station 27; firefighters already on line. Attrition will require backfill. Vehicle maintenance line reduced by $50,000, offset by capital funding for new vehicles. Cleaning services jump removed; deep cleaning to be handled separately. Well-prepared for EV fires (two EV blankets donated, FDNY observed training). Chief does not recommend banning EVs from parking garages at this time. Police Department (Chief Rittenhauer) - $23.88 million (5.86% increase). Adds five new officers; one clerk typist position converted to intelligence analyst/coordinator for data analysis and real-time crime center. Overtime projected at $2.5 million (based on 3-year average of $2.6M and 5-year of $2.4M); as hiring fills to 175-180, overtime should trend down (but takes a year for new hires to impact). Professional services increased for drug screenings (20% per state mandate) and psychological evaluations. Training budget increase for academy startup (Danbury hopes to run its own police academy; space being evaluated by POST Council, revenue possible from other towns). Mayor confirmed interest in permanent capital space for future. Mental health crisis intervention training included in regular training budget. Dignitary protection detail (mayor’s detail) has one primary and alternates; total cost to be provided. Key Outcomes - Motion: Councilman Salvatore moved to recommend to the full City Council approval of the Health, Human Services and Public Safety budget of $58,507,263 as presented in the mayor’s budget. The motion was seconded by Councilman Ardano and passed unanimously by voice vote with all committee members in favor. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:00 PM after nearly two hours. The budget recommendation will be forwarded to the full City Council for final action.

The Danbury Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) met on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber. The board approved the minutes from the March 12, 2026 meeting and conducted public hearings on two continued applications. The primary agenda item was a detailed review and approval of a variance application for 73½ and 75 Osborne Street. The meeting also included a resignation announcement from the board chairman. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 12, 2026 meeting. Motion by Mr. Delucia, seconded by Mr. Williamson. All in favor. Continued Public Hearings - Application 26-01 – 8 South Cornell Road: The board continued this application without discussion. Motion to continue made by Mr. Delucia, seconded by Mr. Williamson. All in favor. - Application 26-03 – 73½ and 75 Osborne Street: This application was the focus of the meeting. Applicant Carlos Goman (also referred to as Guaman) seeks variances to allow grading within five feet of the property line and to increase the maximum driveway grade from 8% to 10% in the first 20 feet. Discussion Items - Project Description: Engineer Michael Mazuku presented revised plans. Changes included reduced grading along the common property line, a gap between retaining walls to be filled with a fence or plantings (to be decided by the parties), and replacement landscaping. The plan also addresses drainage with two dry wells, lowering a sidewalk to provide a smooth driveway transition, and adjusting grades to move soil away from the adjacent foundation. - Neighbor John L. Hancock (Trustee, Hancock Family Trust): Submitted a letter read into the record. He acknowledged concerns about proximity to his dwelling at 69–73 Osborne Street, steep grade changes, and the impact of excavation. He stated that if certain conditions (unspecified) are met, he is committed to being a good neighbor and expressed gratitude for the applicant’s professionalism. - Neighbor Jill Hancock (John’s sister): Spoke in support after meetings with the applicant and engineer. She raised concerns about construction equipment accessing the site and potential impact on her foundation (a 1800s building). She noted that the engineer believed access via her property would be needed, while the applicant thought it might not. She expressed willingness to cooperate as long as issues are resolved. She also suggested the city improve notification processes, as she only learned of the project via a letter that was not informative. - Board Clarification: A board member noted that any side agreements between the applicant and neighbor are not enforced by the city. The approval would be based on the revised plan, which would be relied upon for inspections. - Applicant’s Response: Mr. Goman stated he is willing to abide by conditions in the neighbor’s letter (e.g., hours of operation, coordination) and offered to be on-site to address any questions. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing Closed: Motion by Mr. William, seconded by Mr. Williamson. All in favor. - Variance Approved: The board voted unanimously to approve application 26-03 for 73½ and 75 Osborne Street (Carlos Goman). Specific variances granted: - Grading within five feet of the property line (Section 8A2Z4, zone 16 RH3). - Increased maximum driveway grade from 8% to 10% for the first 20 feet of the proposed new driveway (Section A B 1B3). - The board found that the variance will not adversely affect public health, safety, or welfare. - Motion by Mr. Delucia, seconded by Mr. William. All in favor. Other Business - Chairman’s Resignation: The chairman announced his intention to resign effective April 30, 2026, as he is moving to Florida. He thanked the board for nearly 25 years of service. His last meeting will be April 23, 2026. A new chairman may be elected at the next meeting. - Adjournment: Motion by Mr. William, seconded by Mr. Delucia. All in favor.

On April 7, 2026, the Danbury City Council convened at 7:01 p.m. to consider major agenda items including the mayor's proposed 2026-2027 budget, the establishment of a Charter Revision Commission, multiple appointments and confirmations, and various resolutions and grants. The meeting featured extensive public testimony and robust council debate, particularly on the charter revision and police hiring policy. Key votes included approval of the charter revision resolution (17-4) and confirmation of a new deputy fire chief. Consent Calendar - The council approved the minutes from the March 3, 2026 meeting unanimously. - Council accepted a donation of $1,000 from Michael Schurer for the Police Department's ice cream truck program (Copsicle Truck). - Accepted a joint donation of $5,000 from the Rotary Club and Traveling Toys Inc. to create a toy lending library at the Danbury Public Library. - Confirmed the reappointment of Hillel Goldman to the Board of Ethics with a term expiring April 1, 2028. - Approved several sewer and water main extension applications (Damia Drive, 48 East Gate Road, 85 Worcester Heights Road, Great Plain Road/Great Meadow Road) and a renewal for Great Plain Road/Great Meadow Road. - Reauthorized the acquisition of a parcel on Reserve Road (lot C 16046) for an additional six months to permit construction of a fire station. - Reauthorized the acquisition of 147-149 Westville Avenue Extension for an additional six months. - Accepted a $1,000 Connecticut Office of the Arts grant for Make Music Day 2026. - Adopted a resolution for the Connecticut Department of Health Emergency Shelter Grant (amended to $810,000). - Approved a resolution for the Connecticut Department of Health Small Cities Grant (amended to extend funding end date to April 30, 2026). - Approved a resolution accepting the full $80,000 grant from the Peter and Carmen Lucia Buck Foundation for elderly services. - Approved a resolution to apply for a $5,000 Dollar General Literacy Foundation grant for youth literacy for English language learners. - Adopted a resolution for the condemnation of a utility easement on Lombardy Street. - Approved a sewer main extension at 72 Liberty Street subject to standard city steps and conditions. - Accepted a report from the ad hoc Kirk Government Entities Review Committee and moved it to a public hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Harold (18 Foster Street) supported the appointment of fire captain Ted Morges as deputy fire chief and urged careful consideration of the charter revision, calling it "a very serious undertaking." - Paul Bamba (3 Crestdale Drive) urged establishment of a Charter Revision Commission, comparing inaction to an ostrich ignoring predators. - Lauren Mumford (62 Old Bridgeberry Road), a lifelong Danbury resident and new member of the Danbury DTC, read a letter signed by herself, Anna Maloney, Kathleen Troy, and Julie Kushner urging the council to support Mayor Alves' proposed commission, noting the charter had not been reviewed in over 17 years. - Gregory Wentzek (Sylvan Drive) spoke in favor of the Cultural Commission's grant for Make Music Day, highlighting its community impact. - Denise Minson (93 Park Avenue) noted the charter still requires public notice via a newspaper of general circulation, suggesting an update for modern technology. - Barry Rickert (26 Schoolhouse Drive) asked the council to confirm the deputy fire chief appointment and demanded the charter revision be moved forward. - Billy Katzing (13 Johnson Drive) questioned the mayor's proposal to allow non-citizens (permanent residents/DACA recipients) to serve as police officers, expressing concerns about vetting. - Warren Levy (Five Poem Drive) addressed the police hiring ordinance, stating it is voluntary per state law, and urged careful review of a data use agreement with Cummings Foundation for wellness services. He also asked council to keep tax increases low. - Ken Gucker (89 Payden Aram Road) supported Hillel Goldman's reappointment to the Board of Ethics, supported the sewer extension for the Danbury Proton project, and urged opening the charter revision, comparing it to periodic car maintenance. - Robin Lillo (One Lois Street) had no opposition to reopening the charter but encouraged the council to carefully vet commission members, likening it to choosing the right mechanic. Discussion Items - Proposed 2026-2027 Budget (Item 1) & Capital Budget (Item 2): Mayor Roberto Alves presented a proposed $175 million fully funded Board of Education budget and a city budget with a mill rate of 25.37 (1.5% increase, about 25 cents per day for the average homeowner). Key drivers: 7% health care increase, $20 million pending litigation (Home Depot case), 5% increase in public safety spending to $48.4 million, an additional 5 sworn police officer positions (15 since he took office), and a plan to pave 15 miles of road in fiscal year 2026-2027. The budget includes $13 million in state aid and seeks to improve infrastructure, elderly meal services, and building permit software. Both items were referred to public hearing. - Charter Revision Commission (Item 27): The council resumed discussion after public testimony. Councilwoman Faye raised objections: the original ad hoc referral was a one-page letter without a resolution or specific names, and the reported resolution included nine individuals selected by the mayor—calling them "personal supporters" and questioning a conflict of interest since Councilman Britton (ad hoc chair) voted to include himself. She cited a potential violation of Connecticut General Statute 7-190 limiting public officeholders to one-third of the commission. Councilman Rotello expressed concern about reducing council size (currently 21 members) and thereby disenfranchising constituents; he voted no but indicated he would likely support sending the final product to voters. Councilwoman Wallace Smith and Councilwoman Gardner argued there is no fear in simply opening a review. Councilman Henry tried to split the vote (to separate the decision to open the charter from approving the specific commission members), but the motion failed 7-17. Corporation Counsel Castigrande confirmed the ad hoc meeting was properly noticed and that Councilman Britton voting for himself was not illegal. The final vote on the resolution to establish the Charter Revision Commission with the mayor's nominated members passed 17-4 (Councilmembers Coello, Faye, Henry, and Rotello voting no). - Police Hiring Ordinance (Item 9): Mayor Alves clarified that the proposed ordinance change would update city hiring eligibility to match state POST council standards allowing permanent legal residents and DACA recipients to apply to be police officers. He noted these individuals already serve in the military and in other public safety roles (paramedics, doctors). Police Chief Rittenhauer indicated support. The item was referred to public hearing and committee of the whole. Councilwoman Faye requested an ad hoc committee (appointed: Britton chair, Hawley, Henry). - Cummings Foundation Collaboration & Data Use Agreement (Item 10): A partnership between the Danbury Police Department and Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health would provide $83,625 for comprehensive health assessments for officers, $32,000 for new gym equipment, and $14,000 for peer support training. The total value could be approximately $600,000 if funding continues for five years. No local match is required. Councilwoman Faye requested an ad hoc committee (appointed: Gardner chair, Giordano, Henry). - Connecticut Transportation Alternative Program Grant (Item 20): The city received an additional $2.85 million in federal funding for citywide sidewalk improvements, bringing the total to $1.4 million (originally committed in 2019). The city must provide a 20% match ($570,000) from the SNAP 2020 bond. Councilman Chinese asked for the remaining balance of that bond. Councilman Henry requested an ad hoc committee (appointed: Buzade chair, McAllister, Henry). - Congressionally Directed Spending Grant (Item 21): The city seeks $1.5 million from the Office of Senators Blumenthal and Murphy for lighting upgrades at Kenosha Park, John Perry Fields, and Rogers Park. No local match is required. Parks Director Tom Hughes explained the priority was driven by increased usage (approximately 4,000 soccer players and 1,000 football players) and the need to light remaining unlit fields. Councilman Rotello confirmed lights would be photometrically designed to avoid light bleed. - Connecticut Department of Health Emergency Shelter Grant (Item 22) & Small Cities Grant (Item 23): Approved as amended. Councilman Henry requested an ad hoc committee for item 23. - Buck Foundation Grant (Item 24): Approved as amended. Councilman Henry requested an ad hoc committee. - Dollar General Literacy Foundation Grant (Item 25): Approved as amended. Councilman Henry requested an ad hoc committee. Key Outcomes - Charter Revision Commission: The resolution to establish the commission with nine members appointed by the mayor passed 17-4. The commission will review the city charter and return recommendations to the council. - Deputy Fire Chief: Confirmed the promotion of Fire Captain Theodore Morges to Deputy Fire Chief. - Board of Ethics Appointments: The nomination of Abraham Kayal, Pedro Maderos, and Michael Valinotti was sent to an ad hoc committee (Salvatore, LePine, Henry) for further review. - Police Hiring Ordinance: Referred to public hearing followed by committee of the whole with an ad hoc committee (Britton chair, Hawley, Henry) appointed to review the proposal. - Cummings Foundation Agreement: Referred to an ad hoc committee (Gardner chair, Giordano, Henry) for further review. - Transportation Alternative Program Grant: Referred to an ad hoc committee (Buzade chair, McAllister, Henry) to review the additional funding and match. - Congressional Spending Grant (Lighting): Approved as presented. - Emergency Shelter Grant & Small Cities Grant: Approved as amended. - Elderly Services Grant: Approved as amended, but referred to an ad hoc committee (Laughinghouse chair, Jabor, Henry). - Library Literacy Grant: Approved as amended, but referred to an ad hoc committee (Robinson chair, Chinese, Henry). - All other consent items and resolutions: Adopted or received as noted.

The Board of Awards met on April 5, 2026, at 10:04 AM. The meeting was called to order by Chip Volpe, Purchasing Agent. Attendees included Attorney Tracy Norris (Assistant Corporation Counsel), Superintendent Tim Nolan, Acting Fire Chief William Longsberry, Assistant Purchasing Agent Debbie Natalie, and Finance Director Dan Garrick. Two items were considered and both were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Purchase of VACCON Sewer Cleaner: The highway department requisitioned a VACCON Model V312N/1300 combination jet/vacuum sewer cleaner for sanitary sewer use. The total cost was $693,872 from Sanitary Sewer Equipment, procured via the Sourcewell cooperative contract. A motion was made to award, seconded by Mr. Garrick, and the board voted unanimously in favor. - Renewal of First Due Software: The fire department requested renewal of the First Due Fire and EMS operations software subscription at a total cost of $50,197.61. A sole source justification was provided, noting that First Due is the developer of proprietary software used since 2024 for incident reports, asset management, and fire marshal inspections. A motion to renew was made, seconded, and carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Both items were approved unanimously. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

The Ad Hoc Committee of the Danbury City Council met on March 24, 2026, at 6:01 PM to consider Mayor's request to initiate charter revision and appoint a nine‑member Charter Revision Commission. After extensive debate on process, transparency, and the proposed slate, the Committee voted to recommend a single resolution covering both initiation and appointments to the full City Council. Discussion Items - Opening Charter Revision: Chairman Joe Britton (also a nominee) supported initiation, noting it had been over 15 years since the last revision and that the charter is a living document. Several council members (Henry, Rotello, Fay, Schnees, Perkins, McQuella) argued the resolution should be split into two steps: first initiate revision, then later appoint the commission, citing state statute and past practice. Corporation Counsel opined that the law does not preclude doing both in one resolution, and that the full council could still amend the slate. Mayor Cavo defended the single‑resolution approach, stating it is efficient and allowed by statute. - Proposed Commission Slate: The nine nominees were listed: Isabel Almeida, Glenda Armstrong, Joe Britton, Wilson Hernandez, Dan Jowdied, Deborah McCarry, Joe Putnam, Mary Jean Ribero, and Michael Sefranic. Council members expressed concerns about insufficient time to vet the names, lack of bios and party affiliations (later provided: five Democrats included), and that several nominees were not present at the meeting. Mayor Cavo stated his office vetted the individuals for commitment and representation of the city, and offered to provide additional information. - Conflict of Interest: Councilman Rotello questioned the appropriateness of Chairman Britton voting on a resolution that includes himself as a commission member. Corporation Counsel stated no conflict exists because the position is unpaid and there is no personal financial interest. - Size of Commission: Some members (e.g., Councilwoman Faye) suggested the commission should be expanded to the maximum of 15 to ensure broader representation. The chair noted the council could amend the number when the resolution comes to the floor. Key Outcomes - Motion Carried: Councilwoman Councilman (unidentified) moved to recommend the resolution as presented (initiation, appointment of the nine members, and a 16‑month deadline for the commission to report). Councilman Henry seconded. The motion passed with a voice vote (ayes and nays heard, no abstentions). - Next Steps: The recommendation will go to the full City Council for a vote in April 2026. The council may amend the slate or split the question. If approved by a two‑thirds majority, charter revision will be initiated and the commission will have 16 months to submit a draft. - Public Comment: No public comment occurred during the meeting. Notes - The meeting was called to order at 6:01 PM and adjourned after the vote. - The transcript shows some inconsistency in a nominee's name (David vs. Deborah McCarry); the mayor clarified the Democratic slate includes Deborah McCarry.

Note: The meeting date provided for this summary is March 24, 2026, but the transcript repeatedly states the meeting occurred on March 18, 2026. This summary uses the date supplied by the request, with the discrepancy noted. The Danbury Planning Commission held a virtual meeting on March 24, 2026, with Chairman Finaldi presiding. Roll call established a quorum with members Kyokio, Hofstetter, Nazario, and Finaldi present. The mayor appointed a new alternate, Eva Vega, but she did not attend. The commission approved the minutes of the March 4, 2026 meeting by unanimous vote. No public hearings were held; one continuation was tabled, and three draft resolutions were approved under old business. A single referral for a sewer extension received a positive recommendation. The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 1, 2026. Consent Calendar No consent calendar was used; all agenda items were addressed individually. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made or read during the meeting. Discussion Items - Continuation of Public Hearing – Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC (Special Exception 805): Application for a special exception and site plan for an automobile service station, service garage, and convenience market at 85 Mill Plain Road (CA80 zone). The applicant’s attorney requested a continuance to April 1, 2026, to ensure both the environmental professional and traffic engineer could attend. No testimony was taken. The commission unanimously voted to continue the hearing to April 1, 2026, with an additional backup hearing on April 15 if needed. - Old Business – Western Connecticut Council on Alcoholism Inc. (Special Exception 799): Draft resolution for interior renovations to an existing dependency treatment center at 38 Old Ridgebury Road. Staff noted the applicant submitted revised plans per the February 19 staff report. The commission unanimously approved the resolution of approval with conditions. - Old Business – BRT Sconset LLC (Special Exception 589): Revised special exception and site plan for the Ridgetop cluster development at 10 Damia Drive (RA40 zone). Conditions included filing of HOA declaration, council approval for water/sewer extension, a construction sequencing plan, and fire marshal verification of a minimum 20-foot unobstructed roadway width on the new looped private road. The commission unanimously approved the resolution with conditions. - Old Business – GR GPR Owner LP (Special Exception 754): Floodplain permit for expansion of outdoor storage at 2 Great Pasture Road. The property lies in the AE flood zone (base flood elevation 355.4 ft). No changes to the existing building; total cut of 334 cubic yards results in no net fill below the 100-year floodplain, increasing flood storage. The commission unanimously approved the floodplain permit with administrative requirements. - Referral – 824 Referral for Sewer Extension at 72 Liberty Street: Request from City Council for a sewer extension to serve a 12-unit garden apartment development (site plan approved December 2025). The existing sewer main terminates about 200 feet from the property. Staff had no objections. The commission unanimously voted for a positive referral, noting the project supports downtown residential development and is transit-friendly near the train station. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of March 4, 2026 (unanimous). - Continued public hearing for Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC to April 1, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved resolution for Western Connecticut Council on Alcoholism Inc. (unanimous). - Approved resolution for BRT Sconset LLC (unanimous). - Approved floodplain permit for GR GPR Owner LP (unanimous). - Issued positive referral for sewer extension at 72 Liberty Street (unanimous). - The next scheduled meeting is April 1, 2026.

The Danbury Board of Awards met on March 18, 2026, at 10:04 AM, chaired by Purchasing Agent Chip Bolkia. The board approved four items, including contract amendments, vehicle purchases, and engineering services, all by unanimous vote. Attendance included Assistant Finance Director Kara Prunty, Superintendent of Public Services Tim Nolan, Assistant City Engineer Dan Petrovich, Assistant Purchasing Agent Debbie Natalie, Assistant Superintendent of Public Utilities Kent Higgins, and Assistant Corporation Counsel Tracy Norris. Consent Calendar - None identified; all items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - None provided. Discussion Items - Approval of Fee Schedule Amendment for Fuss & O'Neill Environmental Consultants: Chip Bolkia noted that Fuss & O'Neill, previously awarded a bid for on-call environmental consulting services (initial three-year term with a two-year renewal option), requested a new fee schedule via email from Senior Vice President Eric Moss on March 5, 2026. The board reviewed and found the rates acceptable. A motion to approve the amended hourly rates was made by Chip Bolkia, seconded by Kara Prunty, and carried unanimously. - Purchase of Three 2027 Western Star 47X Trucks for Highway Department: The board approved the purchase of three 2027 Western Star 47X trucks with stainless steel dump bodies, plows, and spreaders from Freightliner of Hartford at a unit cost of $312,874.97, totaling $938,624.91. The purchase was made under the Daimler Sourcewell government cooperative contract. A motion to award to Freightliner was made by Chip Bolkia, seconded by Kara Prunty, and carried unanimously. - Purchase of Four 2026 Ford F-350 Trucks for Highway Department: The board approved the purchase of four 2026 Ford F-350 4x4 trucks with plow assemblies from Generous Ford at a unit cost of $58,979.65, totaling $235,918.60, under the state of Connecticut contract. A motion to award to Generous Ford was made, seconded by Kara Prunty, and carried unanimously. - Engineering Services for Comprehensive Sewer Evaluation: The board awarded a contract to Tata and Howard for comprehensive sewer evaluation services in two phases: Phase 1 (sewer flow monitoring) at $417,000 and Phase 2 (sewer flow analysis) at $332,600, for a total not to exceed $750,000. This was under their existing on-call services contract with the city. A motion to award was made by Chip Bolkia, seconded by Kara Prunty, and carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Fee Schedule Approved: Unanimous approval of Fuss & O'Neill's new hourly rates for on-call environmental consulting. - Vehicle Purchases Approved: Unanimous approval for purchase of three Western Star trucks ($938,624.91) and four Ford F-350 trucks ($235,918.60). - Sewer Evaluation Contract Awarded: Unanimous award to Tata and Howard for comprehensive sewer evaluation services up to $750,000.