Public Meetings - Danbury, Connecticut

On March 18, 2026, at 6:33 PM, the Danbury Ad Hoc Committee convened in Conference Room 3C to review a proposed resolution adjusting compensation for the city's three highest elected offices: Mayor, Town Clerk, and Treasurer. Chairman Joe Britton led the meeting, with all committee members present: Councilman McAllister, Councilman Giordano, Councilwoman Wallace Smith, and Councilman Coello. Also in attendance were Director of Finance Dan Garrick, Economic Director Farley Santos, and ex officio members Councilman Hawley, Majority Leader Salvatore, Council President Buseid, and Councilman Chinese. A few members of the public were also present. The meeting concluded at 7:13 PM with a unanimous vote to recommend the amended resolution to the full City Council. Discussion Items - Legal Basis: Chairman Britton reviewed the City Charter, noting Section 4-1 (Mayor) and Section 2-8 (Town Clerk) authorize the City Council to set compensation. The Treasurer's salary, though not explicitly in the Charter, falls under the council's budgetary authority. - Rationale for Raise: The proposal aims to bring Mayor's salary in line with comparable Connecticut municipalities. Britton cited the 'bottom line up front'—the Mayor is 'undercompensated for the growth of the city.' The resolution also includes a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) index to depoliticize future raises. - Proposed Compensation Structure: - Mayor: Base salary of $165,000 effective December 1, 2027 (next mayoral term). Britton derived this figure by averaging the top ten largest municipalities' mayoral salaries ($161,000) and adding a year's inflation. - Town Clerk: Initially 50% of Mayor's salary, later amended to 55% (to reach $91,000 based on 55% of $165,000). - Treasurer: Initially 25%, later amended to 20% (part-time position, 2-3 hours/week). - COLA Indexing: The original proposal applied COLA every two years (at each election), but was amended to annual COLA increases to better reflect rising costs. - Effective Date: December 1, 2027—after the next election, so voters have a say. - Speaker Positions and Analytics: - Councilman McAllister: Expressed full support, stating the Mayor's role requires 'good grasp on good government' and fair compensation. - Councilman Giordano: Called it 'a no-brainer,' noting Stamford's mayor earns $203,000; Danbury is comparable but proposing $165,000. - Councilwoman Wallace Smith: Supported the raise as earned by the current Mayor. - Councilman Chinese: Agreed salaries need adjustment but proposed a $155,000 base for the Mayor based on population-to-salary ratio analysis. Stressed Town Clerk is 'grossly undercompensated' and should be $99,000 immediately, not tied to Mayor's salary. Suggested Treasurer at 20% to reflect part-time hours. - Councilman Coello: Requested 25-year historical salary data for all three positions to provide context. - Majority Leader Salvatore: Questioned whether an ordinance (harder to rescind) would be better than a resolution (easier to rescind). Chairman Britton noted resolution was chosen for simplicity; Salvatore praised the depoliticizing effect. - Councilman Hawley: Clarified the proposal only covers the three highest elected offices, not Judge of Probate, Register of Voters, or Council. - Councilman Chinese: Emphasized the need to get the base salary right, noting the previous mayor's sporadic raises left the salary behind. - Finance Impact: Director of Finance Dan Garrick confirmed the cost is negligible within the $300 million+ budget ('you won't even see the needle'), with salary taking effect in a future budget year. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed Unanimously: The ad hoc committee voted to recommend the amended resolution to the full City Council. All members present voted 'aye'; no opposition or abstentions. - Amendments Adopted: 1. Town Clerk compensation changed from 50% to 55% of Mayor's salary. 2. Treasurer compensation changed from 25% to 20% of Mayor's salary. 3. COLA increases to be annual rather than biennial. - Next Steps: The resolution will be forwarded to the full City Council for a vote. Chairman Britton noted Corporation Counsel will confirm no charter conflict with the COLA indexing before that meeting. Councilman Coello will provide a 25-year salary history spreadsheet for additional context.

The Danbury Zoning Board of Appeals convened on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers at 155 Deer Hill Avenue, City Hall. Chairman Joe Hanna presided. The board addressed agenda items including a variance application for a residential porch addition (26-05) and a multi-family development proposal (26-06), along with continuations of other applications. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the February 26, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Application 26-05 (17 Cedar Drive): Alex Bolina of Doyle Coffin Architecture, representing applicants Cody and Carrie Gunch, presented a request for two variances to construct two covered porches on an existing single-story house. The existing house already extends to within 3.6 feet of the eastern property line (required 15-foot setback) and has a building coverage of 22.47% (maximum 20%). The proposed addition would add 225 square feet of porch, offset by reducing 59 square feet of existing coverage, resulting in a net increase of 165 square feet (to 23.7% coverage). The board asked about future expansion, and Bolina stated there were no plans beyond this porch. No public supporters or opponents spoke. - Application 26-06 (5 Clark Street): Thomas Neejam, representing Nijem Development, proposed constructing a three-family dwelling on a narrow, long lot that had been used as a dumping ground. He argued the area is predominantly multi-family and that a single-family home would look out of place. The application requested eight variances, including reducing lot size from 11,250 to 9,275 square feet, reducing lot width from 100 feet to 45 feet, and allowing front-yard parking. A letter from Robert Butello (3 Ridgewood Drive, owner of 2 Cottage Street) was read, stating the application should be viewed objectively and recognizing Nijem Development’s professional past projects. Board members expressed concerns about the number of variances, emergency vehicle access, and whether the hardship (the lot’s narrowness) differed from others in the district. Neejam indicated he was open to reducing the proposal to two units. No other public supporters or opponents spoke. Discussion Items - Application 26-05: The board discussed the proposed porch addition and the existing non-conformities. They noted the applicant was only adding a front porch to improve curb appeal and provide covered entry, with no further expansion planned. - Application 26-06: The board debated the feasibility of three units on the lot. Member Williamson questioned why three units were chosen instead of two to minimize variances. Delucia raised concerns about fire truck access to the rearmost unit—Neejam noted the driveway would be 25 feet wide, allowing access within 10 feet of the first unit but not to the farthest unit. Rivis stated the hardship did not differ from other properties in the district and cited concerns over public safety and welfare. The board discussed the option of denying without prejudice to allow the applicant to resubmit with a revised proposal. Neejam expressed willingness to come back with a two-unit plan. Key Outcomes - Application 26-05 (17 Cedar Drive): Approved unanimously. Motion by Mr. Delucia to grant variances: reduce easterly side yard setback from 15 feet to 3.6 feet, increase maximum building coverage from 20% to 23.7% for construction of two covered porches. Seconded by Mr. Williamson. Vote: 4-0 in favor. - Application 26-06 (5 Clark Street): Denied without prejudice by a vote of 3-0 (Mr. Williamson, Mr. Delucia, Mr. Rivis in favor of denial). The board’s stated reason: the hardship does not differ in kind from hardships imposed by regulations on other properties in the district, and concerns for safety, health, and welfare. The applicant may resubmit after re-advertising and re-application. - Continuations: Applications 26-01 and 26-03 (73 1/2 and 75 Osborne Street) were continued to a future meeting. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 26, 2026.

Note: The transcript of the meeting references March 4, 2026, but the provided meeting date is March 9, 2026. The Danbury Planning Commission held a virtual meeting on March 9, 2026, to consider several planning applications. The commission approved a revised special exception and site plan for interior renovations at the Western Connecticut Council on Alcoholism (MCCA) treatment center, and a revised special exception and site plan for the Ridgetop cluster development. A continuance was granted for the Danbury Mill Plain Realty application. The meeting also included roll call, approval of previous minutes, and public comments. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the February 18, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Western Connecticut Council on Alcoholism (MCCA): Paul Rotello, representing the 6th Ward, expressed support for the application, noting MCCA has been a good neighbor for 25–30 years. He asked about potential traffic increases from additional beds. Ellen Maury, a resident of Larson Drive, also spoke in favor, stating MCCA has been a good neighbor for 24 years and she sees no problem with the change. No opposition was heard. - BRT Sconset LLC (The Ridgetop): No public comments were made in favor or opposition. - Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC: No testimony was taken; a continuance was requested. Discussion Items - Western Connecticut Council on Alcoholism (MCCA) – Revised Special Exception & Site Plan: Applicant Mike Mizuko, PE, presented the proposal to convert existing office space into additional bed space for the dependency treatment center, reducing the scope of a previously approved addition. The changes are interior only, with minor exterior modifications including removal of some parking spaces, addition of an island, and a fence around an existing patio. The project adds approximately 1,100 gallons of flow. All department comments (building, engineering, fire marshal) were satisfied. Commission members expressed support, noting MCCA is a good neighbor and the project is minimal in impact. - BRT Sconset LLC (The Ridgetop) – Revised Special Exception & Site Plan: Applicant Steve Sullivan, PE, presented revisions based on staff comments, including the addition of two raised sidewalks on both sides of a 20-foot-wide one-way loop road (counterclockwise). All other department comments were addressed, and staff noted no deal breakers. Commission members supported the project, noting it provides single-family detached homes, a housing type not seen in the area recently. - Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC – Continuance Request: Attorney Joshua Pedrera requested a continuance to April 1, 2026, to allow the project team to respond to staff questions and submit revised plans. The commission granted the continuance. Key Outcomes - Western Connecticut Council on Alcoholism (MCCA): The public hearing was closed, and the commission voted to approve the revised special exception and site plan. (Motion to close public hearing: approved; motion to move to old business: approved; discussion and approval: unanimous.) - BRT Sconset LLC (The Ridgetop): The public hearing was closed, and the commission voted to approve the revised special exception and site plan, with conditions including staff reports from engineering and planning. (Motion to close public hearing: approved; motion to move to old business: approved; discussion and approval: unanimous.) - Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC: The application was continued to the April 1, 2026 meeting. (Motion to continue: approved.)

The Danbury Zoning Board of Appeals met on March 8, 2026, via Zoom to hear applications for variances and to adopt bylaws revisions. The meeting was chaired by Joe Hannah. Four applications were heard: 26-01 (8 South Cornell Road), 26-02 (24 Hillendale Road), 26-03 (73 & 75 Osborne Street), and 26-04 (12 Sage Road). Key themes included legalizing unpermitted construction, addressing neighbor concerns, and determining whether statutory hardship existed. Consent Calendar Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from January 22, 2026. Next Regular Meeting: Scheduled for March 12, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony Application 26-01 (8 South Cornell Road): Arthur and Linda Stock (10 South Cornell Road) spoke in opposition. They cited loss of privacy (a natural hedge was removed), a retaining wall that encroaches on their property and is a safety hazard (a fawn fell in; they worry a child could), and concern that the new deck is only a step away from their driveway, creating a liability. They requested that the hedge be replaced and the wall be finished/raised for safety. Application 26-02 (24 Hillendale Road): A letter of support (text message) from abutter Robert Baron was noted, confirming he was satisfied after the applicant removed a wall that had previously encroached slightly onto his property. Application 26-03 (73 & 75 Osborne Street): Two letters of opposition from John Hancock and Jill Hancock of the adjacent property were read. They raised concerns about grading on their property, removal of plantings, liability, drainage, and insurance. They stated they had not yet agreed to any grading changes. The applicant's engineer acknowledged the communication gap and said he would meet with the neighbors. Application 26-04 (12 Sage Road): No public opposition was voiced. Letters of no objection from neighbors were submitted but not read aloud. Discussion Items Application 26-01 (8 South Cornell Road): Applicant Myra Solano explained that a contractor they hired began work without all required permits and performed extensive unpermitted additions (cape-to-two-story conversion, decks, retaining walls). The city's Deputy Director Tim Razatti confirmed a cease-and-desist order was issued in October 2024 after a complaint. Five variances are sought to legalize the construction: reduce southern yard setback from 15 ft to 3.6 ft; reduce northern front yard setback from 30 ft to 24.8 ft; reduce southern yard setback (for deck) from 15 ft to 1 ft; reduce eastern yard setback from 15 ft to 8.7 ft; and allow grading within 5 ft of property line. Board members expressed difficulty identifying a valid hardship (the contractor's actions were not a zoning hardship). After discussion, the application was tabled for continuation to allow the applicant to submit a revised plan moving retaining walls and fences onto her property. Application 26-02 (24 Hillendale Road): Engineer Ralph Gallagher presented for the applicant, seeking variances to allow grading within 5 ft of the property line and to increase driveway grade from 12% to 15.7%. He cited constraints: a very small, steep lot, required wetland setback, high groundwater requiring walls, and the city's taking of part of the property for road right-of-way. A previous encroachment (wall touching neighbor's wall) had been removed. No public opposition. The board found the hardship justified and unanimously approved. Application 26-03 (73 & 75 Osborne Street): Engineer Mike Mazoupa presented for applicant Carlos Galman, seeking variances to allow grading within 5 ft of the property line and (implicitly) a small increase in front yard grade for a new driveway providing four parking spaces. The existing tandem driveway on Osbourne Street was deemed a safety hazard. The neighbor, Mr. Hancock, was present and wanted site clarification. The board voted to table the application to allow the engineer and applicant to meet with the neighbor and address concerns. Application 26-04 (12 Sage Road): Architect Edita Dai presented for David and Dina Berkman, seeking variances to reduce the west side setback from 15 ft to 12 ft and the rear setback from 35 ft to 18.4 ft for a two-story addition (basement, beach cabana, primary bedroom, office) on a sub-size RA20 lot. The existing house already encroaches. No public opposition. The board found the hardship (undersized lot, non-conforming existing house) valid and unanimously approved. Bylaws Revisions: Administrator Melissa presented proposed changes to the ZBA by-laws: remove obsolete section 3B (relates to elected commission); change officer elections from every three years to annual voice vote in December; delete reference to administering oaths; clarify that only one meeting is held in November; and change "listening to an available recording" to "reviewing" to cover both audio and video. The board unanimously adopted the revisions as presented. Key Outcomes Application 26-01 (8 South Cornell Road): Tabled for continuation to allow applicant to submit a revised site plan showing retaining walls and decks moved onto her property and addressing neighbor concerns (privacy fence, drainage). The public hearing remains open. Application 26-02 (24 Hillendale Road): Approved unanimously (5-0). Variances granted for grading within 5 ft of property line and driveway grade up to 15.7%, incidental to legalizing walls and driveway. Application 26-03 (73 & 75 Osborne Street): Tabled for continuation to allow applicant to meet with adjacent property owners and address concerns. Next board meeting: March 12, 2026. Application 26-04 (12 Sage Road): Approved unanimously (5-0). Variances granted to reduce west side setback to 12 ft and rear setback to 18.4 ft for a two-story addition. Bylaws Revisions: Adopted unanimously (5-0). Changes to officer elections, meeting schedule, and voting procedure take effect immediately.

Note: The transcript of the meeting indicates the meeting was held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 10:05 a.m. The user instruction specifies March 8, 2026. This summary uses the date provided in the instruction. The Board of Awards for the City of Danbury met on March 8, 2026, to consider seven agenda items, including bids, emergency purchases, and facility use agreements. All motions were passed unanimously. Items Considered 1. Medical Services Provider RFP – Two proposals were received: Occupational Medicine on the Go and AFC Urgent Care. The HR department recommended award to Occupational Medicine on the Go based on specialization in occupational medicine and past issues with AFC Urgent Care (communication, follow-up, delays). The motion was made and seconded, and carried unanimously. Award contingent upon execution of agreement. 2. Emergency Repair Services – Water Damage in Technology Services Department – A broken water pipe on February 17, 2026, caused significant damage in City Hall's IT department. Belfort Restoration was called under an existing cooperative agreement. Initial estimate was $3,000, but damage is more extensive. The board approved award to Belfort with a cap not to exceed $75,000. Funding was discussed with Mr. Garrick. Motion carried unanimously. 3. Emergency Purchase of Road Salt – Due to shortages of treated salt from Morton Salt, the city ordered 1,000 tons of straight white salt at $81.86 per ton delivered. This required an emergency declaration and waiver of formal bidding, approved by the finance director and deputy corporation counsel. The board ratified the purchase. Motion carried unanimously. 4. Road Related Drainage Repairs Bid Extension – Annual unit price bid for 2025 paving season allowed a one-year renewal. Reliable Excavating and Earth Movers Inc. agreed to hold current prices for 2026. The board extended the existing bids. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Paving Related ADA Sidewalk Ramps Bid Extension – Similar renewal for Reliable Excavating for 2026. Motion carried unanimously. 6. Facility Use Agreement – Perfect Game at Rogers Park – Agreement for May 21, 2026, through July 21, 2026, for baseball games/showcases. Fees: $150-$225 per game slot depending on field type. Motion to approve execution carried unanimously. 7. License Operation of Vending Truck at Bradley Park – Bids for three locations at Rogers Park for April 1 to October 31, 2026. High bidders: Location 1 (sole bidder at $4,000), Location 2 (Keith's Ice Cream Truck at $9,100), Location 3 (Gastronomia Patty at $20,000). Motion to award to high bidders carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - All seven motions were approved unanimously. - Awards are contingent on execution of agreements where applicable. - The board ratified emergency actions for the water damage repair and road salt purchase.

The Board of Awards convened on March 8, 2026, at 10:03 a.m., chaired by Purchasing Agent Chick Polken. The sole agenda item was the approval of a $178,000 purchase for a microprocessor-based hydrofit MOD control system for the Rogers Park School elevator, sourced from Otis Elevator via an Omni government cooperative contract. The second agenda item was withdrawn before the meeting. The motion to approve passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Purchasing Agent Chick Polken presented the requisition from the Public Building Department for the elevator control system. The proposed cost of $178,000 includes state of Connecticut prevailing wages and the cost of a bond. The purchase is made through Otis Elevator under their Omni government cooperative contract. Key Outcomes - The Board voted unanimously to approve the purchase of the elevator control system for Rogers Park School. Voting in favor: Sean Hanley (Superintendent of Public Buildings), Joanne Stirk (Assistant Finance Director), and Robin Edwards (Deputy Corporation Counsel, participating remotely). The motion carried without dissent.

The Danbury City Council held its regular meeting on March 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Roberto L. Alves, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by former Fire Marshal Barry Ricker and a prayer led by Councilman Salvatore. Roll call showed 19 members present and 2 absent. The agenda included approvals of minutes, consent calendar items, several collective bargaining agreements, a charter revision proposal, an automated traffic enforcement ordinance, budget transfers, appointments, and referrals to ad hoc committees. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the February 3, 2026 regular meeting and special meeting minutes. - Confirmed appointments: Jeffrey R. Harold and Mark G. Massoud to the Environmental Impact Commission (terms expiring March 1, 2029); Eva L. Avega as alternate member of the Planning Commission (term expiring March 1, 2029); Catherine Cathy Gleason to the Board of Ethics (term expiring March 1, 2028); Cynthia M. White and Amy J. Keller to the Lake Kenosha Commission (terms expiring March 1, 2029). - Accepted the sustainability advisory team report. - Accepted a $1,000 donation from Michael Scherer for the DPD CCU ice cream truck program. - Accepted a donation of items valued at $271,000 from the Danbury Westerners. - Authorized the Mayor or Chief Patrick Riddenauer to accept grant funds and sign related documents. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items Charter Revision (Item 1A) - Mayor Alves requested the establishment of an ad hoc committee to consider a charter revision commission, as the city charter was last modified in 2009. - Motion to send to an ad hoc committee (Corporation Council and Mayor's Office) passed. The ad hoc will be chaired by Councilman Joe Britton, with Councilwoman Holly Robinson and Councilman Mike Henry. Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Devices (Item 7) - Mayor Alves proposed an ordinance to authorize speed and red light cameras under Connecticut General Statute Section 14-307C, citing a 300% increase in enforcement over two years and successful use of stop arm cameras on school buses. - The ordinance and a plan with proposed camera locations would require a public hearing and state DOT approval. - Motion to send to an ad hoc committee (Mayor's Office, Corporation Council, Police Chief or designee, and other necessary departments) passed. The ad hoc will be chaired by Councilman Frank Salvatore, with Councilwoman Cheryl Wallace Smith and Councilwoman Candace Fay. Collective Bargaining Agreements (Items 8, 9, 10) - The council approved three collective bargaining agreements for 2025–2029: with the Public Works Department (including highways, parks, forestry, airport maintenance), the Public Buildings Division, and the Public Utilities Department (water and maintenance divisions). - Councilman Rotello questioned the cumulative financial impact. Director of Finance Dan Garrick noted total increases of approximately $3.6 million over four years, roughly $900,000 per year, which would translate to less than one mill in property tax if all else were equal. - All three agreements were approved unanimously. Budget Transfers (Item 11) - Approved the transfer of $222,683 to close the 2024–2025 fiscal year, as certified by the Director of Finance. Sewer Extension Application (Item 15) - Communication for sewer extension at 72 Liberty Street was received and sent to the City Engineer and Planning Commission for reports. Series 2026 Bonds Resolution (Item 17) - The council adopted the resolution for series 2026 bonds, with a condition that the city has a right of first refusal on financing any additional treatment rooms beyond those contemplated while the bonds are outstanding. Appointment of Constable (Item 17 - second instance) - Based on the ad hoc committee's recommendation, Michael Sopranic was appointed constable to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Louise McMahon. The vote was 18–1. Water Main Extension (Item 18) - Approved the water main extension application for 119 Franklin Street extension, subject to the city's standard eight steps and conditions, based on positive reports from the City Engineer and Planning Commission. Fire Truck Litigation and Antitrust Claims (Item 20) - Corporation Counsel presented a resolution to allow the city to engage outside legal counsel (Simmonson, Sussman, LLP and Barron and Bud PC) for potential litigation against REV Group, Inc., Oshkosh Corporation, Pierce Manufacturing Inc., and others regarding injuries, damages, antitrust violations, and unfair competition related to fire trucks. Fees would be contingent on recovery. - The matter was sent to an ad hoc committee consisting of Councilman Peter Busade (Chair), Councilman John Laughinghouse, and Councilman Mike Henry. Other Business - Calendar of Events: The Mayor announced upcoming events for March and April, including the Scholarship Fund Breakfast (March 8), Good Morning Breakfast (March 17), Irish flag raising (March 17), Fireman's Ball (March 21), St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 22), Foundation Leadership Breakfast (March 24), Blue and White Gala (March 28), Vietnam Memorial (March 29), and Easter Festival (April 4). - Budget Committees: The Mayor announced the budget ad hoc committees for the upcoming budget season: Health and Public Safety (Chair: Frank Salvatore, members: Lou Giordano, Claire Jabor, Paul Rotello, Mike Henry); Government One (Chair: Joe Britton, members: Mike Flanagan, Dwayne Perkins, Billy McAllister, Mike Henry); Government Two (Chair: Andrea Gardner, members: John Laughinghouse, Mia Spain, Dennis Perkins, Mike Coello); Education (Chair: Holly Robinson, members: Andrea Gardner, Cheryl Wallace Smith, Joe Britton, Candace Fay); Public Works (Chair: Peter Busade, members: Ryan Hawley, Diane LePine, Ben Chinese, Mike Coello). - Moment of Silence: Councilman Mike Flanagan requested a moment of silence to honor soldiers killed in recent conflicts. - Personal Privilege: Councilman Joe Britton welcomed newcomers and colleagues after returning from Army service at Fort Lee, Virginia, having graduated from the Judge Advocate General's (JAG) School as a lieutenant. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items were approved unanimously. - Charter revision and automated traffic enforcement proposals were referred to ad hoc committees for further study. - Three collective bargaining agreements (Public Works, Public Buildings, Public Utilities) were approved. - Budget transfers of $222,683 were approved. - The series 2026 bonds resolution was adopted with a right of first refusal condition. - Michael Sopranic was appointed constable (18–1). - The water main extension for 119 Franklin Street was approved. - The fire truck litigation resolution was referred to an ad hoc committee. - Budget ad hoc committees were established for the upcoming budget season. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by motion and second, with all in favor.

The Danbury City Council held a public hearing on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6:04 p.m. in the City Hall council chambers. The sole purpose was to hear public comment on a resolution authorizing the issuance of up to $130 million in City of Danbury, Connecticut revenue bonds (Series 2026) for the Danbury Proton Therapy Center project. These are conduit bonds, meaning the city is not liable for repayment. Eleven council members were present at the start, with additional members arriving later. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Harold (Foster Street resident): Expressed that he now supports the project, calling it "a good bargain" and commended the City's use of the property in compliance with FAA regulations. He noted the building design appears attractive and environmentally integrated. He raised two concerns: (1) a lack of public understanding about proton therapy, noting it is not effective for all cancers, and (2) sadness about losing open land used for recreation and sunset views. He also mentioned that some people may still be unable to afford treatment despite insurance, and urged better public education on the project. - Robert Miller (1 Lois Street, Danbury): Repeated his prior opposition, focusing on the bond resolution superseding the city charter's requirement for a referendum on bonds. He acknowledged the resolution does allow a referendum but does not mandate it. His primary concern was setting a precedent for future councils to approve bonds without a public vote. He respectfully requested the council send the bond to a referendum. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing Closed: After hearing two speakers and calling three times for additional comments, the council voted to close the public hearing. Councilmember Gartner made the motion; Councilman Giordano seconded. The vote was unanimous (all ayes, no opposed). - Meeting Adjourned: A motion to adjourn was made and approved. - Next Steps: The council will proceed to consider the bond resolution for the Danbury Proton Therapy Center project.

The Danbury Planning Commission held a regular virtual meeting on February 22, 2026, via Zoom. Members present: Chairman Finaldi, Mr. Kyokio, Miss Hostetter, and Mr. Nazario (quorum). No alternates were seated. The minutes of the February 4, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2026. Discussion Items 1. Continuation of Public Hearings - BRT Sconset LLC (Application for revised special exception and site plan for cluster development at 10 Damia Drive): The applicant requested a 14-day extension via email from Stephen Sullivan of CCA. The commission unanimously continued this matter to the March 4, 2026 meeting. - Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC (Application for special exception and site plan for automobile service station, service garage, and convenience market at 85 Mill Plain Road, with trip generation 500 vehicle trips/day in the CA80 zone): Attorney Josh Pedrera (Cohen & Wolf) introduced the project on behalf of owner Sammy Jamal. The proposal includes eliminating the existing repair/body shop, upgrading the fueling facility with a new canopy, new concrete pad, piping, and sidewalks, while keeping the existing underground fiberglass tanks (installed 2005, expected 21 years old). The applicant noted that the tanks have a 30-year allowable lifespan under Connecticut DEEP and can receive a 10-year extension, making them usable for 19 more years. Replacing them would cost approximately $100,000. Traffic engineer Steve Allman (Banish) prepared a report showing added trips of about 40 in the morning peak and 50 in the afternoon peak, with levels of service A and D. Staff comments from city traffic engineer Vera (dated January 22, 2026) focused on pedestrian safety and ingress/egress, noting that traffic capacity on Mill Plain Road is a state responsibility. The applicant agreed to have the traffic engineer present at the next meeting. Commission members Bob and Helen asked about tank history/testing (Larry Webster, Banish, detailed testing protocols), site layout (presented via screen share by Connor McCamara, Banish), traffic flow (east entrance in, west exit out, unidirectional), pump layout (4 dispensers), pedestrian access from rear parking, snow storage, and facade enhancements (architectural plans to be addressed). The public hearing was continued to March 4, 2026, for full presentations and staff reports. Councilman Rotello indicated he would provide comment at the continued hearing. 2. 824 Referrals (City Council Agenda Items) - Lease Renewal for Tango Yankee LLC (Business Aircraft Center Inc. at Danbury Airport, facility behind fire company on Kenosha Avenue): Staff had no objections. The commission voted unanimously for a positive referral. - Water Extension for 119 Franklin Street (Ridgewood Country Club): Extension of water main to connect to a new hydrant and an existing six-inch private service line. Staff had no objections. Positive referral approved unanimously. 3. Other Matters – Five-Year Extension of Site Plan Approval - Danbury Proton Facility, 85 Worcester Heights Road (SE 781): Originally approved July 2021, site plan approval was set to expire July 2026. Attorney Megan Miles and Stephen Courtney (Danbury Proton) explained that construction was delayed due to the time required to obtain a Certificate of Need from the state, which was received January 17, 2025, after a multi-year process (initial denial, refiling, approval). The estimated 18-month construction period cannot be completed within the original five-year window. Staff had no objection. The commission granted a five-year extension unanimously, with well-wishes. Key Outcomes - BRT Sconset LLC continued to March 4, 2026. - Danbury Mill Plain Realty LLC public hearing continued to March 4, 2026; applicant to provide updated plans, staff reports, and traffic engineer presentation. - Positive 824 referrals approved for both the Tango Yankee lease renewal and the Ridgewood Country Club water extension. - Five-year extension of site plan approval for Danbury Proton Facility granted unanimously. - Meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified in transcript].