Clinton Town Council Regular Meeting - October 1, 2025

The Clinton Town Council held its regular meeting on October 1, 2025, addressing an agenda that included a landfill closure partnership update, a proposed ordinance on automated traffic enforcement safety devices, a bonding update, and various town manager and chairman reports. The meeting began at 9:00 AM (implied) in the green room, with the pledge of allegiance followed by routine items and a presentation from Lerrero Engineering.

Consent Calendar

• Agenda Amendment: Council unanimously approved adding item 6A authorizing a resolution for the STEAP grant. (Motion carried)
• Minutes Approval: Minutes of September 17, 2025, were approved unanimously.
• Appointments and Reappointments: None.

Discussion Items

• Landfill Closure Update: John Sullivan, with Lerrero Engineering, presented a self-funded landfill closure partnership. Key details: The proposed closure involves beneficial reuse of soils to cap the old landfill at Old Nod Road, a project that has been in development since 2019. The grading plan originally called for 235,000 tons of soil, but after considering compaction, the forecast was revised to up to 350,000 tons. The town would receive a host fee of $2 per ton, generating an estimated $470,000 to $700,000 in revenue. The timeline is approximately 15 months, pending DEEP approval. Post-closure monitoring is typically 5–10 years as required by DEEP. Council members asked about the material composition (topsoil with grass cover), runoff and groundwater monitoring, and the company’s benefit (avoided costs from transporting soil to other states).
• Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Device Ordinance (Item 6): Chief John Gillette presented proposed language for an ordinance establishing a non-lapsing fund from traffic enforcement revenues. Councilor Dennis expressed strong opposition to language requiring that all expenditures from the fund must first be approved by the Police Commission (acting as Local Traffic Authority). He argued that state statute (14-297) gives municipalities sole authority, and that the town council, as the ultimate fiduciary, should not have to seek permission from another commission. The Chief defended the language as a check-and-balance, noting the Police Commission’s elected status and charter-defined role. Councilor Chris noted that the council has oversight of all boards and commissions per the charter. After extensive debate, council decided to table the ordinance to allow further discussion, possibly with the town attorney’s input. No vote was taken.
• Bonding Update (Item 7): Finance Director Bob presented updated bond history and a bond forecast schedule. Highlights: Over the last 15 years, the town has issued nearly $65 million in bonds, with the largest being $38 million for the new Morgan High School. The forecast schedule assumes a 3% annual debt service increase, keeping debt service below 10% of the total budget (currently at 7.5%). The projected affordable bonding for FY2026 is $2.5 million, increasing to $6–$12 million in later years. Council discussed the need to prioritize capital projects within capacity, noting that the current CIP does not include any very large projects (e.g., new school or firehouse) in the next 10 years.
• Economic Development Update (Item 8): Michelle reported that Alan will begin a weekly Facebook business spotlight on Thursdays. A ribbon cutting for CareVet Health is scheduled for October 17 at 10:30 AM. The Trunk or Treat event has moved from Indian River Complex to Clinton Crossing due to safety concerns. Alan will present a full update on November 5. Council asked about the status of Dale Krupp’s contract; Michelle said he has set funds based on hours, not a formal contract.
• Town Manager’s Report (Item 9): The town received $11,572.47 from the Secretary of State for early voting costs, to be fully expended by December 31, 2025. Construction on the Upper Mill Pond Dam Indian River Fishway has begun; funded by a $500,000 grant from 2022. The project includes an ADA-compliant ramp and viewing platform, expected completion by March 2026.
• Chairman’s Report (Item 10): State Senator Norm Needleman will visit on October 16 from 2–3 PM for a tour of town facilities and downtown. Councilor Mike reported on the beach cleanup on September 27 (last Saturday), noting significant firework debris from the July celebration still present, leading to community discussion about considering a drone light show next year. He also relayed feedback from Elaine Gadowski about using the Town Hall auditorium for events like the Kate. Council discussed public reaction to changes in town traditions (e.g., Christmas in Clinton moved to Saturday) and noted overall positive feedback.

Key Outcomes

• STEAP Grant Resolution (Item 6A): Approved unanimously. Council authorized the town to sign the resolution accepting a state STEAP grant of $500,000 (amount not explicitly stated but implied by previous context).
• Landfill Closure: No formal vote; presentation provided for information. The project will move forward pending DEEP approval, expected by end of 2025.
• Traffic Enforcement Ordinance: Tabled indefinitely. Further discussion will involve the town attorney and possibly a workshop with the council, police commission, and local traffic authority to resolve language on fund oversight.
• Early Voting Funds: Expended per state requirements, accounting due January 2026.
• Fishway Construction: Ongoing, with completion in spring 2026.
• Executive Session: Motion made and approved; meeting adjourned immediately after.