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Record of Proceedings

Windsor Town Council Public Hearing and Regular Meeting – October 5, 2026

Town Council & Planning and Zoning — Monday, October 5, 2026
BodyWindsor, Connecticut
SessionTown Council & Planning and Zoning
DateMonday, October 5, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:47:35

Original source
Transcript — VerbatimClick a timed line to jump · ⧉ to share it

Speaker numbers apply only to this recording.

Speaker 1

2:27

Good evening.

2:28

The time is now seven twenty PM, and welcome to the public hearing of October fifth, twenty twenty-six.

2:34

And before I open it up, I would like to read the public notice.

2:37

Notice is hereby given that the town council of the town of Windsor will hold a virtual and in-person public hearing in the council chamber

Unassigned speaker

2:46

at

Speaker 1

2:46

the Windsor Town Hall, two seventy-five Broad Street on Monday, October fifth, twenty twenty-six, at seven twenty PM prevailing time to hear public comment on the following items.

12:36

Good evening.

12:38

And welcome to the October fifth, twenty twenty-six town council meeting.

12:43

All counselors are here.

12:45

Our deputy mayor is joining us online.

12:48

And so that is our roll call.

12:50

And items two and three this evening will be done by Councillor Armstrong, the prayer and or reflection and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Speaker 2

13:07

But we never want to lose sight of our gratefulness to

Unassigned speaker

13:11

you.

Speaker 2

13:11

We ask for guidance, wisdom, and unity in tonight's decisions as we discuss various topics and ideas.

13:40

Help us to listen attentively with open heart and mind.

Speaker 1

14:31

This evening we have three proclamations, and we'll begin with the first one, which is designating October twenty twenty-six as fire prevention month here in Windsor.

14:42

And that will be presented by Councillor Armstrong.

Speaker 3

15:02

Proclamation

Speaker 2

15:04

October 2026 as Fire Prevention Month.

15:08

Whereas the Town of Windsor is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting the town.

15:16

And whereas fire remains a serious public safety concern, both locally and nationally, and the presence of lithium batteries and many household devices introduces fire risk.

15:30

And whereas roughly, roughly, three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or with non-working smoke alarms.

15:41

And whereas most of the rechargeable electronics used in homes daily are powered by lithium on batteries, which, if misused, damaged or improperly charged, can overheat and start a fire or explode.

15:58

And whereas the National Fire Protection Association, F NFPA, reports an increase in battery-related fires, underscoring the need for public education on the safe use of lithium on batteries and devices.

16:16

And whereas safe charging includes using the cord and charger that came with your device, or one approved by the manufacturer, charging on a hard, flat surface, watching for warning signs like devices that are very hot or start to swell, unplugging when fully charged, and charging larger devices like rebuikes outside and away from an exit.

16:43

And whereas Windsor's first responders remain dedicated to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety education, and community outreach.

16:55

And whereas the 2026 Fire Prevention Month theme, Charge into Fire Safety.

17:03

Safe charging is a superpower, serves to remind all residents that safe charging can help reduce the risk of fires in homes and in communities.

17:15

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and the Windsor Town Council that October 2026 be proclaimed as fire prevention month throughout this town,

Unassigned speaker

17:28

and

Speaker 2

17:28

that all residents of Windsor are urged to learn about and practice safe charging habits, as well as support the many public safety activities and efforts of Windsor's fire and emergency services.

17:42

And it is signed, Nouchette Blackberg, Mayor of Windsor, October 5th, 2026, signed and sealed as we present this today.

Unassigned speaker

18:00

Good

Speaker 4

18:00

evening, Honorable Mayor and Town Council.

18:02

Good evening, Windsor Community.

18:04

Welcome to Fire Prevention Month nationally in the town of Windsor.

18:08

This year's fire prevention theme, charging to fire safety, safe charging is a superpower, focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely.

18:18

Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in.

18:21

Many devices used in our daily lives, phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters, run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space.

18:34

If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

18:40

As we do annually, our office in coordination with the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department will be visiting schools and local organizations throughout the month of October to introduce proper fire safety education, as well to as introduce the safe charging messaging to the appropriate audiences.

19:12

Served as the fire administrator for our wonderful town for over 26 years, and beyond that time as a member of the volunteer fire department.

19:20

Throughout his service, he actively supported our mission of protecting and educating the community in all aspects of fire prevention, including assisting with visits to schools and coordinating resources and supplies for our busy October season.

19:34

We will miss working with him on a daily basis, but his impact has shaped the way fire prevention and education is delivered in Windsor for years to come.

19:43

Please join me in recognizing retired fire administrator Paul Goldberg this year with our proclamation.

Speaker 5

19:54

Absolutely.

Unassigned speaker

20:07

Thank you

Speaker 5

20:07

very

Unassigned speaker

20:08

much.

Unassigned speaker

20:11

Absolutely.

Unassigned speaker

20:12

Thank you.

Speaker 5

20:16

Thank you, absolutely.

20:18

Thank you.

20:18

Appreciate it.

20:20

Thank you, sir.

20:20

Absolutely.

Speaker 6

20:21

Thank you.

Unassigned speaker

20:24

Thank you,

Speaker 5

20:24

Sandy.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural███████████████████19%
Public Engagement████████████████16%
Parking Management███████████████15%
Insurance Management██████████10%
Education and Youth████████8%
Public Safety██████6%
Planning and Zoning██████6%
Public Works████4%
Economic Development███3%
Summary of Proceedings

Windsor Town Council Public Hearing and Regular Meeting – October 5, 2026

The Windsor Town Council met on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 7:20 PM in the Council Chamber at Town Hall. The meeting included three proclamations, public comments, reports from boards and commissions, the introduction of a parking ordinance amendment, and other business. All council members were present, with the deputy mayor attending virtually.

Proclamations & Recognitions

  • Fire Prevention Month (October 2026): Proclaimed by the Mayor and Council. The theme, "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower," focused on safe use of lithium-ion batteries. Retired Fire Administrator Paul Goldberg was recognized for 26 years of service.
  • Manufacturing Month (October 2026): Proclaimed to honor Windsor’s 57 manufacturing firms employing more than 2,500 individuals. Ryan Lombardini, president of JT Automation (90 Lamberton Road), accepted the proclamation and noted the company’s growth from 5 to 50 employees over 10 years.
  • Community Planning Month (October 2026): Proclaimed in conjunction with National Community Planning Month. The council also surprised Anita Jubri with a recognition for 28 years of dedicated service as Registrar of Voters (plus additional years as deputy). She was thanked for her long tenure on the Planning & Zoning Commission as well.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Joe McCulliff (218 Preston Street): Speaking on behalf of the Windsor Jaycees, he announced that the Chili Challenge has been replaced by an Oktoberfest event on Saturday, October 10, 2026 (11 AM to 4 PM) on the Town Green. The change was driven by rising costs (food, tents, rentals) that made the previous event unsustainable. The Jaycees aim to raise funds for Windsor High School scholarships.
  • Charles Windsor Jackson III (26 Wilson Avenue): Expressed appreciation that the council is considering a parking ordinance amendment after 12 years of his advocacy. He suggested that fines for commercial vehicles should be higher, closer to Hartford’s $250, and that the proposed $150 is too low. He also commented on winter parking bans and compliance periods.

Council Communications

  • Several council members wished the Mayor a happy birthday. Councillor Pelkey reminded residents that no-excuse absentee ballots are available and that early voting begins October 19, 2026 (10 AM–6 PM daily, with two evenings until 8 PM). He also encouraged volunteer firefighter recruitment at Windsorfire.org.
  • Councillor Naeem noted the Oktoberfest and Craft Fair is this Saturday, October 10. Deputy Mayor reminded of the poetry slam at the library on October 19. The Mayor highlighted a job fair on October 6 at 330 Windsor Avenue (10 AM–1 PM) and reminded drivers of new laws on distracted driving and passing school buses (effective October 1, 2026).

Reports from Boards & Commissions

  • Town Planning & Zoning Commission (Anita Jubri): Reported notable projects: adoption of the Plan of Conservation & Development (February 2026), awards for the “Summer of 10,000 Flowers” campaign, and numerous approvals—including mixed-use developments (e.g., 500 Day Hill Road, 300 apartments; 65 Bloomfield Avenue, 7 apartments; 4 & 8 Griffin Road North, 96 apartments; 100 Dunfee Lane, 96 apartments; Windsor Townhouse Hotel conversion to 27 micro-apartments). Text amendments were adopted to support middle housing, studios in industrial zones, and a design overlay zone on Day Hill Road.
  • Board of Education (Secretary Zader): Provided data on Advanced Placement courses (17 running, average enrollment 24.2) and early college courses (21 running, average 26.8 students). Announced a district-wide civic engagement day on October 28, 2026, and the Windsor High School graduation date of June 15, 2027. Athletic ticket sales are projected to generate $30,000 this year; pricing: $10 adults/$5 students for basketball/football, $5/$3 for other sports (seniors and veterans free). Discussed a budget surplus from reduced outplacement costs and magnet school tuition caps; the Board is exploring options for the surplus (e.g., creating a fund with council approval).
  • Insurance Commission (Chair Al Rillera): The commission, with 171 years of combined insurance experience, recommended renewal with Travelers. Total insurance premium increase across all lines was only 0.13%, driven by fleet exposure (including new ambulances). The town’s loss experience is excellent. The commission offered to provide risk management support to other town committees and suggested adding the risk manager to the health and safety committee.

Town Manager’s Report (Peter Sousa)

  • Noted the First Town Downtown farmers market has two remaining dates (October 8 and 15).
  • Repaving of Marshall Phelps Road between Day Hill and Bloomfield Avenue: milling the week of October 12 (overnight), paving the week of October 26 (100% state-funded).
  • Pedestrian bridge replacement/repair projects begin October 12: Custer and Stro Park bridges will be replaced (5 days each), followed by the Wilson Gateway Park bridge. The Windsor Center Trail bridge will be closed for about one month for repairs, then repairs at Sharshan Park bridge.
  • Recognized Anita Jubri’s retirement after 37 years of town service, leading communications, social services oversight, and many community events. A farewell gathering is planned for Friday afternoon.
  • Directed residents seeking fuel assistance to contact Social Services.

Ordinances & New Business

  • Floodplain Management Ordinance (Chapter 3, Article 3): Waiver of reading and adoption passed unanimously (9-0). The update reflects FEMA’s recent study of the Farmington River watershed.
  • Parking Ordinance Amendment (Chapter 16, Article 3): Introduced after discussion. Proposed fine increases: compliance time period restriction from $15 to $25; commercial vehicles in restricted areas from $15 to $150; temporary parking prohibition from $15 to $50; winter parking ban from $15 to $50; handicapped parking from $95 to $100 (and doubling after 7 days). Councilor Pelkey proposed an amendment to increase the compliance fine to $50/$75 and the handicapped fine to $250 (matching state statute). The amendment failed (4-5). The original motion then passed 9-0.
  • Public Hearing Scheduled: Set for Monday, October 19, 2026, at 7:20 PM to hear public comment on the parking ordinance amendment. (A typo in the motion was corrected.)
  • Price Guide Amendment for Fire Lane Parking Violations: Introduced as a separate item (not in ordinance). Councilor Pelkey’s motion to increase the fine to $250 (both initial and after 7 days) failed (4-5). The original motion to increase from $50 to $100 passed 9-0.

Key Outcomes

  • Proclamations for Fire Prevention Month, Manufacturing Month, and Community Planning Month were approved and presented.
  • Anita Jubri was recognized for 28 years as Registrar of Voters; Paul Goldberg for fire prevention service; Ryan Lombardini accepted the Manufacturing Month proclamation.
  • The Floodplain Management Ordinance was adopted unanimously.
  • The Parking Ordinance Amendment was introduced; a public hearing was set for October 19, 2026.
  • The fire lane parking fine was increased to $100 via the price guide.
  • Minutes of September 2 and September 22, 2026, meetings were approved.
  • Meeting adjourned after approximately 90 minutes.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening. The time is now seven twenty PM, and welcome to the public hearing of October fifth, twenty twenty-six. And before I open it up, I would like to read the public notice. Notice is hereby given that the town council of the town of Windsor will hold a virtual and in-person public hearing in the council chamber at the Windsor Town Hall, two seventy-five Broad Street on Monday, October fifth, twenty twenty-six, at seven twenty PM prevailing time to hear public comment on the following items. Good evening. And welcome to the October fifth, twenty twenty-six town council meeting. All counselors are here. Our deputy mayor is joining us online. And so that is our roll call. And items two and three this evening will be done by Councillor Armstrong, the prayer and or reflection and the Pledge of Allegiance. But we never want to lose sight of our gratefulness to you. We ask for guidance, wisdom, and unity in tonight's decisions as we discuss various topics and ideas. Help us to listen attentively with open heart and mind. This evening we have three proclamations, and we'll begin with the first one, which is designating October twenty twenty-six as fire prevention month here in Windsor. And that will be presented by Councillor Armstrong. Proclamation October 2026 as Fire Prevention Month. Whereas the Town of Windsor is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting the town. And whereas fire remains a serious public safety concern, both locally and nationally, and the presence of lithium batteries and many household devices introduces fire risk. And whereas roughly, roughly, three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or with non-working smoke alarms. And whereas most of the rechargeable electronics used in homes daily are powered by lithium on batteries, which, if misused, damaged or improperly charged, can overheat and start a fire or explode. And whereas the National Fire Protection Association, F NFPA, reports an increase in battery-related fires, underscoring the need for public education on the safe use of lithium on batteries and devices. And whereas safe charging includes using the cord and charger that came with your device, or one approved by the manufacturer, charging on a hard, flat surface, watching for warning signs like devices that are very hot or start to swell, unplugging when fully charged, and charging larger devices like rebuikes outside and away from an exit. And whereas Windsor's first responders remain dedicated to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety education, and community outreach. And whereas the 2026 Fire Prevention Month theme, Charge into Fire Safety. Safe charging is a superpower, serves to remind all residents that safe charging can help reduce the risk of fires in homes and in communities. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and the Windsor Town Council that October 2026 be proclaimed as fire prevention month throughout this town, and that all residents of Windsor are urged to learn about and practice safe charging habits, as well as support the many public safety activities and efforts of Windsor's fire and emergency services. And it is signed, Nouchette Blackberg, Mayor of Windsor, October 5th, 2026, signed and sealed as we present this today. Good evening, Honorable Mayor and Town Council. Good evening, Windsor Community. Welcome to Fire Prevention Month nationally in the town of Windsor. This year's fire prevention theme, charging to fire safety, safe charging is a superpower, focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in. Many devices used in our daily lives, phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters, run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. As we do annually, our office in coordination with the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department will be visiting schools and local organizations throughout the month of October to introduce proper fire safety education, as well to as introduce the safe charging messaging to the appropriate audiences. Served as the fire administrator for our wonderful town for over 26 years, and beyond that time as a member of the volunteer fire department. Throughout his service, he actively supported our mission of protecting and educating the community in all aspects of fire prevention, including assisting with visits to schools and coordinating resources and supplies for our busy October season. We will miss working with him on a daily basis, but his impact has shaped the way fire prevention and education is delivered in Windsor for years to come. Please join me in recognizing retired fire administrator Paul Goldberg this year with our proclamation. Absolutely. Thank you very much.

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