Public Meetings - New Britain, Connecticut

The Common Council met on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 7:28 PM following a public participation session that began at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered public comments, petitions, a consent agenda, and 15 resolutions, including zoning amendments, grant acceptances, and proclamations. The meeting adjourned at 8:07 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel Bates, representing the Ragged Mountain Foundation (45 Orchard Brook Drive, Weathersfield), appealed to the Council to allow rock climbing and passive recreation on the city-owned 375 North Shuttle Street property (Bradley Mountain Boulders). He stated the Water Department enforced a closure last year and the climbing community has been unable to reach an agreement. Bates highlighted the property's use for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, and noted that other communities (e.g., West Hartford) successfully manage recreational use of watershed lands. - Jen Camille (105 Mill Rock Road, Hamden), also on the Ragged Mountain Foundation board, supported the appeal, emphasizing the mental and emotional benefits of outdoor recreation and the climbing community's stewardship through trail maintenance. She cited successful partnerships with Meriden Parks & Rec, DEEP, and the Berlin Land Trust. - Dana Snell, Executive Director of the Queen Ann and Zinga Center (19 Chestnut Street, New Britain; lives at 18 Newton Avenue, Plainville), advocated for a $3,000 holiday sculpture project celebrating Kwanzaa and Hanukkah by local artist Enoch Shabazz. The project would involve 15–25 children from the Center. Snell requested Council support and resources. - David DeFranzo (95 Pape Road, New Britain), newly elected state representative for the 26th district, introduced himself and thanked the Council for their service. Discussion Items - Petitions: Alderman Santiago submitted two petitions: (1) a traffic study at Reservoir Road and Shuttle Meadow Avenue to address speeding, and (2) a crosswalk on Slater Road at Jerome Drive near CREC Academy for schoolchildren safety. Both were referred to the Police Commission. - Resolution 1 (Zoning Ordinance – Municipal Parking District): Alderman Santiago moved to amend the resolution by restoring language stating the district shall be established by the City Plan Commission with Common Council approval and may be amended by those bodies. After explanation from advisor Mr. Benjamin that the removal was intended as a cleanup for redundancy, the amendment passed with a vote (voice vote, no opposition). The amended resolution then passed. - Resolution 8 (DOJ Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant – $10,000): Alderwoman Barbosa introduced the grant for a youth education program on guns, gangs, and violence. Police Chief described the "Be Responsible" program, expanding from 5th grade to middle school. The program includes 8–10 sessions. The resolution passed. - Resolution 10 (Immunization Action Plan Grant – $109,155): Alderwoman McAdam presented the grant, funded since 1995. Health Director Caleb answered questions about the program's reach, vaccination rates (high in New Britain), and partnerships with pediatric providers. Resolution passed. - Resolution 14 (On-Call Engineering for High Hazard Dams – $22,000): Alderman Santiago introduced a contract with Tate & Howard for dam inspections required by state regulations. Alderwoman Beloin Savedra and Alderwoman Barbosa questioned the selection process (on-call list) and fee reasonableness. Public Works representative Mark Moriarty explained the urgency and past successful work with the firm. Resolution passed. - Resolution 15 (Tax Modification Agreement – Ellis Stanley Land LLC): Alderman Santiago moved to accept and refer to the Committee on Administration, Finance, and Law and Public Service. Passed. - Other Resolutions (2–7, 9, 11–13): Approved without significant discussion. Resolutions 5 and 6 designated November as Lung Cancer Awareness Month and as a time of gratitude and Thanksgiving, respectively. Resolution 7 authorized a $119,560 DUI enforcement grant. Resolution 13 approved elevator maintenance contracts (Kone Inc. at $7,800/year for 5 years; Schindler Elevator Corp at $39,340/year for 2 years). Consent Calendar The consent agenda (Items A through L, including City Plan Commission recommendations, monthly check reports, and zoning subcommittee recommendations) was approved unanimously by roll call vote (15-0). Key Outcomes - All 15 resolutions were adopted, with specific actions noted below. - Resolution 1 was amended and then passed as amended (voice vote, no opposition). - Resolutions 2–14 passed without opposition or passed with voice votes (no dissents recorded). - Resolution 15 was referred to the AFL committee. - Petitions for traffic study and crosswalk were referred to the Police Commission. - Public comments on rock climbing and the holiday sculpture were acknowledged; President Santiago indicated a willingness to open discussions with the Water Department regarding climbing access.

The Common Council Zoning Subcommittee and the Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing held a joint public hearing and regular meeting on November 12, 2024 at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, 27 West Main Street, New Britain, Connecticut. The meeting was called to order at 6:37 PM and adjourned after the Committee meeting at approximately 8:45 PM. The Zoning Subcommittee considered seven zoning text amendments (Items 36626-36632) and subsequently removed and acted on several tabled items. The Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing then addressed four resolutions (Items 36624, 36598, 36643, 36644). All votes were voice votes unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for the zoning text amendments. The public hearing closed at 6:42 PM. - For the Committee meeting, no one appeared for public participation. Discussion Items Zoning Subcommittee: Text Amendments (Items 36626-36632) - Item 36626 — Accessory Structure Setback Regulations: City Planner Jeff Cormier presented the proposal to clarify that the 3-foot setback for accessory structures applies only within the required rear yard. An amendment was offered by Alderman Connors to strike a stray impervious coverage line from the table, which passed. The item was then approved with a neutral recommendation. - Item 36627 — Removal of Conflicting/Unused Provisions: This cleanup removed obsolete provisions (caretaker dwelling units, SRD height requirement, etc.). Approved with neutral recommendation. - Item 36628 — Screening of Dumpsters and Mechanicals: The proposal required screening for dumpsters and mechanical equipment. An amendment by Alderman Santiago specified that mechanical equipment subject to a mechanical permit must be screened. Approved as amended. - Item 36629 — Fence Height Requirements: Simplified the fence height table and added 50% opacity in front yards. An amendment by the Zoning Enforcement Officer clarified that on corner lots, the side yard along a street also requires 50% opacity. Approved as amended. - Item 36630 — Maximum Impervious Coverage: A new standard for all districts. Alderman Santiago expressed concern that 100% impervious coverage in industrial (I2) districts would exacerbate runoff onto residential areas, calling for a lower cap. Alderman Connors moved to reduce the I2 maximum from 100% to 90%, which was seconded and passed. The item was approved as amended with neutral recommendation. City Planner noted that additional cleanup would follow to align lot coverage requirements. - Item 36631 — Parking Lot Landscaping Thresholds: Lowered triggers from 50 new spaces to 25, and from 100 modified spaces to 50. Also added a 5-foot landscape buffer requirement for all new lots. Approved. - Item 36632 — Definition and Separation of Smoke Shops: Created a definition and a 3,000-foot buffer between smoke shops. Alderman Santiago questioned the clarity of “paraphernalia” as it could apply to both tobacco and marijuana. City Planner replied that the intent is to cover all smokable products except licensed cannabis sales. Approved with neutral recommendation. Tabled Items (from Zoning Subcommittee) - Item 36551 — Short-Term Rentals: Alderman Santiago moved to amend the definition from 30 consecutive days to 27 days to avoid overlap with month-to-month rentals. Amendment passed. Item then approved with neutral recommendation. - Item 36552 — Signage Regulations: Relaxed ground clearance and allowed larger directional signs on campuses. Approved. - Item 36553 — Site Plan Regulations: Expanded site plan requirements to all buildings, not just those with 6+ units. Approved. - Item 36554 — Rezone Burritt Street Area: Changed from A1 to T and A2 to facilitate development. Approved. - Item 36555 — Rezone John-Stanley-Park Area: Changed industrial to B1R to match existing residential and business uses. Approved. - (Items 36556 and 36557 were also on the agenda but not discussed in the transcript; they were presumably included in the tabled items list but not acted upon.) Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing - Item 36624 — Conveyance from CT DOT for Black Rock Avenue Right-of-Way: Six parcels to support the B-line trail. Approved with neutral recommendation. - Item 36598 — On-Call Repairs for City and CSDNB Buildings: Proposed contract for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, etc., up to $100,000 per project without competitive bidding for under-$100,000 jobs. Extensive discussion: John Dogan (Director of Public Works) explained that the $100,000 threshold is needed for emergency repairs (e.g., elevator motor, boilers) and that all projects would still require council approval via resolution. Alderman McNamara expressed concern about bypassing bidding procedures and offered an amendment to adhere to the existing $7,500 bidding threshold. After debate, Alderman McNamara withdrew his amendment and moved to table the item for further consideration of a tiered procurement ordinance. The motion to table passed on a party-line vote (7–1). - Item 36643 — Contract for Dual Space Parking Meters and Kiosks: John Dogan described the need to replace aging kiosks (installed 2013) and meters. Three vendors were selected via public bid (POM, Duncan, Flowbird). Approved with neutral recommendation. - Item 36644 — Contract for Parking Management Systems and Pay-by-Cell Services: Related to the previous item, covering management software. Approved with neutral recommendation. Key Outcomes - All zoning text amendments (Items 36626-36632) were approved as amended with neutral recommendations to the full Common Council. - Tabled items (36551, 36552, 36553, 36554, 36555) were removed from the table and approved with neutral recommendations; Item 36551 was amended to 27 days. - Item 36624 (conveyance) and Items 36643/36644 (parking meters) were approved with neutral recommendations. - Item 36598 (on-call repairs) was tabled on a party-line vote (7–1) to allow further review of procurement ordinance changes. The item remains in committee for future action. The meeting adjourned following the approval of the last item.

The Common Council of New Britain held a public hearing on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 6:28 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The sole agenda item was a proposed conveyance from the Connecticut Department of Transportation of multiple Black Rock Avenue right-of-way parcels along the southerly side of CT Route 72 eastbound near Barnes, Warren, and South Burritt Streets. No members of the public spoke, and the hearing was adjourned at 6:31 PM without any vote or action on the item. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony or comments from the public or remote participants. - The hearing adjourned via motion by Alderman Santiago, seconded by Alderman Smedley, at 6:31 PM.

The Committee on Administration, Finance and Law and Public Services held a public hearing and regular meeting on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. Nine members were present. The meeting addressed two main items: a proposed Neighborhood Flood Relief Initiative for owner-occupied properties and the CRCOG Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew (Brighton Street resident) testified that the proposed $7,500 grant amount is insufficient to cover cleanup and repair costs, citing his own experience with a sewer backup where cleaning alone cost $10,000 and basement replacement cost $15,000. He urged the committee to be more realistic about funding levels. Discussion Items - Item 36619 – Neighborhood Flood Relief Initiative: Alderman McNamara presented the proposal, modeled after a Hartford program, aimed at providing up to $7,500 in grants for preventative measures (e.g., sump pumps, French drains) to reduce flood damage. Director Mark Moriarty discussed the city’s rapid response program (ServiceMaster) for emergency cleanups. Corporation Counsel Mary Pikorsky clarified that the rapid response is for immediate health hazards, while the proposed initiative would cover longer-term preventative items. Alderwoman Savedra raised questions about overlap with the claims process and the funding source. Finance Director Jonathan Perugini stated that the proposed $500,000 pilot funding from PILOT money has already been absorbed to cover a state motor vehicle reimbursement shortfall. Alderman Santiago moved to amend the resolution to remove several items (e.g., basement cleanouts, new boilers, mold remediation) that could be handled through the claims process, focusing only on preventative measures. The amendment was approved. Further discussion included concerns about administration, staffing, and fairness to homeowners who already pay for safety valve insurance. Alderman Barbosa moved to table the item to allow time for Hartford program managers to provide more details. The motion to table passed. - Item 36623 – CRCOG Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2024-2029: Alderman McNamara noted the plan identifies flooding as the city’s top hazard, highlighting Allen Street and Overlook areas. Alderwoman Savedra emphasized that adopting the plan positions the city to obtain state and federal grants. Director Moriarty confirmed a meeting with Allen Street residents is scheduled. The committee voted unanimously to recommend the plan to the full council. Key Outcomes - Item 36619: The proposed resolution was tabled to the next committee meeting after approval of an amendment to limit eligible activities to preventative measures. Funding source remains undetermined, likely from the unassigned fund balance. - Item 36623: Recommended to the full council with a favorable vote (ayes all, no nays).

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on October 23, 2024, beginning with public participation at 7:00 PM and the regular session at 7:14 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The meeting included public testimony on multiple issues, unanimous approval of the consent agenda, adoption of resolutions for EMS services, Italian and Polish heritage months, tax abatements, and approval of a labor contract with public safety telecommunications union following executive session. Public Comments & Testimony - Harry Crescamaro (president of the Angelo Tomaso Senior Lodge, Sons and Daughters of Italy in America) expressed gratitude to the Mayor and Council for designating October as Italian American Heritage Month. - An anonymous domestic violence victim (clergywoman, relocated to New Britain) reported that her neighbor, with encouragement from the landlord and the New Britain Police Department, placed burned dolls with nooses and a cross on her front lawn, which she described as a lynching and hate crime. She stated police reports omitted the hate crime aspects and asked the Council to intervene. - Paul Catanzero (250 Hillhurst Avenue) spoke in strong support of Resolution 1 (EMS extension agreement), noting he was an original employee of New Britain EMS in 1978 and that the service is one of the best in the state. - Lisa Liu (63 Bassett Street) called on Mayor Stewart to publicly condemn racist comments made by former Mayor Tim Stewart about the Asian American community, criticizing the current mayor's response as cavalier. Following public comments, a Council member (an alderwoman, not identified in transcript) thanked the speakers, expressed deep concern over the reported hate crime urging its removal, and also thanked Lisa Liu, stating racism and discrimination must not be tolerated. Consent Calendar - Items A (Claims for Injuries and/or Property Damages), B (Sale of Surplus Equipment), C (Recommendation for Extension Agreement with NBEMS), and D (Settlement of Claims) were adopted unanimously by roll call vote (13-0). Discussion Items - Resolution 1 (Extension Agreement between City and New Britain Emergency Medical Services, Inc.): Adopted unanimously. Alderman Connors moved adoption, noting the agreement ensures continued emergency medical services. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra mentioned the new EMS Chief offered a council tour of facilities, and Alderwoman Scott expressed appreciation. - Resolution 2 (October as Italian American Heritage Month): Adopted unanimously. Alderman McNamara moved adoption, highlighting contributions of Italian-American organizations. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra noted it was submitted on behalf of the entire council to remedy a prior oversight. - Resolution 3 (October as Polish American Heritage Month): Adopted unanimously. Alderman Melanowski moved adoption, emphasizing Polish-American contributions and the success of Little Poland. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra praised previous councils and the Polish community. - Resolution 4 (Tax Abatements, Corrections, and Refunds): Adopted unanimously. Alderman Connors explained it corrects errors and provides refunds after hearings. - Resolution 5 (Approval of Agreement between City and UE Local 111 No. 25 Public Safety Telecommunicators): Alderman Simpson moved adoption; the Council then went into executive session with the Mayor, Gennaro Vizarro, and Mary Pikorski to discuss contract details. Upon returning at 7:54 PM, the motion was approved. Key Outcomes - All five resolutions were adopted unanimously. - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - A petition by Alderperson Scott regarding safety mechanisms at 140 Columbus Boulevard/Price Rite Plaza entryway (pedestrian crossing signs/lines near train tracks) was referred to the council office. - The Council entered executive session and subsequently approved the telecommunicator union contract. - A moment of silence was observed at the start of the regular meeting for victims of the Berlin fire (including a CWPM employee and a retired firefighter) who lost their lives during the Lamentation Mountain blaze, and the Council President offered condolences.

The New Britain Common Council held a combined Zoning Subcommittee public hearing and special meeting followed by a Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing public hearing and special meeting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meetings addressed four zoning text amendments and one zoning map amendment, as well as a proposed ordinance establishing a naming procedure for city-owned buildings. All items were ultimately referred to the full Common Council with neutral or unfavorable recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - Zoning Subcommittee (Items 36582–36585): No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. The hearing was closed after no speakers were identified. - Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing (Item 36594): One speaker, Gail Connolly (2200 Stanley Street), spoke against the proposed ordinance to establish a procedure for naming city-owned or controlled buildings. She argued that the Board of Education already has a clear policy (3515.10) for naming school buildings and that the council should not interfere. She also questioned the timing of the proposal following the renaming of the Butler building and suggested the council instead provide oversight of the School Building Committee’s multi‑million dollar projects. Discussion Items 1. Item 36582 – Amendment to Zoning Ordinances: Municipal Parking District - Presentation: Jack Benjamin, Director of Planning and Development, and Jeff Cormier, City Planner, explained that the amendment would expand the municipal parking district to allow shared parking arrangements and waive off‑street parking requirements for commercial uses in the district. The change is intended to promote development and utilize underutilized parking lots. The City Plan Commission recommended approval. - Discussion: Alderman Smedley moved to add a textual amendment requiring that a subsequent user who changes or extends the use must provide off‑street parking per the new standards. The amendment passed unanimously. Alderman McNamara and Alderwoman Beloin Savedra clarified that the amendment does not impose new obligations on homeowners or add parking meters. Alderwoman Barbosa asked about enforcement; Mr. Benjamin noted shared parking agreements must be recorded on land records. Alderwoman Scott questioned why parking minimums were reduced to 0.75 spaces per unit (previously 1.0); Mr. Cormier explained this was a correction from a change made two years ago. - Key Outcome: Motion to refer Item 36582 back to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation as amended passed unanimously. 2. Item 36583 – Amendment to Zoning Ordinances: Grading and Excavation Requirements - Presentation: Jeff Cormier presented new regulations for grading and excavation. Currently, no standalone regulations exist; the state threshold is half an acre. The amendment would require a zoning permit for any grading exceeding 25 cubic yards, with an erosion and sedimentation control plan. Over 50 cubic yards would require City Plan Commission approval. Exemptions include routine gardening and construction erosion control plans. The City Plan Commission recommended approval. - Discussion: Alderman McNamara noted that the ordinance fills a gap in addressing drainage and flooding issues. Alderwoman Scott expressed appreciation for efforts to mitigate flooding. - Key Outcome: Motion to refer Item 36583 back to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation passed unanimously. 3. Item 36584 – Amendment to Zoning Ordinances: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Presentation: Jack Benjamin explained that the amendment simply relocates existing safeguards for ADUs from Section 230 (Supplemental Regulations) to Section 270 (Special Exception Uses) to place them in the correct location. The City Plan Commission recommended approval. He defined ADUs as “in‑law apartments” attached to single‑family homes. - Discussion: Alderwoman Beloin Savedra confirmed the change does not alter language. Alderwoman Scott asked if it helps create more housing; Mr. Benjamin affirmed it does, noting the city adopted its own ADU ordinance 18 months ago to avoid the state’s broader default rules. - Key Outcome: Motion to refer Item 36584 back to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation passed unanimously. 4. Item 36585 – Amendment to Official Zoning Map: Expand Municipal Parking District - Presentation: Jack Benjamin presented the map amendment to expand the municipal parking district north of Broad Street and North Street, and south of Whiting Street. The expansion captures existing municipal parking areas and underutilized lots for shared parking. The City Plan Commission recommended approval. - Discussion: Alderman McNamara asked how the expansion area was determined; Mr. Benjamin explained it was based on structures built to lot lines and locations with underutilized parking opportunities. - Key Outcome: Motion to refer Item 36585 back to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation passed unanimously. 5. Motions to Remove Tabled Items (36538, 36540, 36551) – Zoning Subcommittee - Procedural Motions: Alderman Malinowski moved to remove items 36538, 36540, and 36551 from the table. Corporation Counsel advised that these items were tabled at a previous meeting and could be removed by a majority vote, though a two‑thirds vote might be needed to amend the agenda. After debate, roll‑call votes were held on each item. - Key Outcome: All three motions to remove items from the table failed on roll‑call votes (7 no, 6 yes). 6. Item 36594 – Amendment to Code of Ordinances: Procedure for Naming City‑Owned Buildings – Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing - Presentation: The resolution would establish a procedure for naming or renaming any city‑owned or controlled building or facility. - Discussion: Alderman McNamara spoke against, arguing it interferes with the Board of Education’s autonomy. Alderwoman Barbosa provided historical context concerning the 2012 closure of the dual language program at DiLoreto School, which she said was supported by Alderwoman Beloin Savedra, and questioned the motives behind the naming ordinance. Alderwoman Sanchez shared a personal anecdote about her son being affected by that program change. Alderwoman Scott stated the Board of Ed is fully capable and that the timing is suspect. - Key Outcome: A motion to refer Item 36594 to the full Common Council with an unfavorable recommendation (made by Alderman McNamara, seconded by Alderman Connors) failed on a voice vote. The item remains on the agenda as unfinished business. The meeting then adjourned. Key Outcomes - Items 36582, 36583, 36584, and 36585 were each referred to the full Common Council with neutral recommendations. The first item was amended by adding language about subsequent users providing off‑street parking. - Three attempts to remove previously tabled items (36538, 36540, 36551) from the table failed by a 7‑6 roll‑call vote. - Item 36594 (naming procedure) received a motion to refer with an unfavorable recommendation, which failed. No action was taken, and the item remains on the agenda. - The Zoning Subcommittee meeting adjourned at 7:01 PM. The Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing meeting adjourned at 7:21 PM.

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, beginning with public participation at 7:00 PM and the regular session at 7:23 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. All 15 aldermen were present. The meeting included a Mayor's veto override vote, several resolutions, and a major infrastructure contract award. Consent Calendar - Items A (Claims for Injuries/Property Damage) and C (Finance Dept. Monthly Checks Report) were approved unanimously (15-0) as part of the consent agenda. - Item B (Report on Appointment of Shayne Livingston as Clerk of Committees) was removed from the consent agenda and voted separately. After debate, the report was accepted unanimously with welcoming remarks from multiple council members. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury Road) described ongoing flooding on Monroe Street and the Allen Street Basin area, blaming city officials for 30 years of neglect of storm sewer systems. He cited a $14 million Cardinal Engineering plan awaiting implementation and criticized the city for hiding surplus funds. He urged action to prevent further catastrophic flooding. - John Board (Highland Harris) called on the council to pass resolutions recognizing the one-year anniversary of October 7th and the Jewish High Holy Days, noting that draft resolutions existed but were not on the agenda. He urged inclusivity. - Paul Cantzero (250 Hill Hurst Avenue) opposed the Indigenous Peoples' Day resolution, arguing it diminishes Columbus Day, which he said is important to New Britain's Italian American heritage. He also noted that Italian Heritage Month was not recognized. - Shawne Scott (340 High Street, calling in) expressed support for the Indigenous Peoples' Day resolution but asked for resolutions for Jewish holidays and Italian American Heritage Month to recognize the city's diversity. She also questioned why the mayor would veto a council-appointed position. - Alan Horde (145 Columbus Boulevard) supported the Indigenous Peoples' Day resolution and requested removal of former Mayor Timothy Stewart's name from a police department community room due to his statements of bigotry. Discussion Items - Mayor's Veto – Appointment of Shayne Livingston (Resolution 36615): The council debated the mayor's veto of the appointment. Alderman Smedley argued the process violated the city charter because the appointment should have been a simple report, not a resolution, and that the minority caucus was not provided a resume. The council voted 8-7 to sustain the veto (needed 10 to override), thus upholding the mayor's decision. All speakers emphasized the veto was about process, not the individual. - Resolution 6 – John Downey Drive Corridor Improvements (Bid 4144): This $5,386,083.50 contract with Martin Laviero Contractor for street safety improvements (narrowing roadway, adding sidewalks, multi-use trail, trees) was initially moved for referral but withdrawn after a recess. Director Mark Moriarty presented details: project fully funded by state LOTSIP grants, no local tax money; design done in-house saved money; bid came in $1M under estimate; contractor has strong history with the city. After questions on timetable (completion expected in one-two construction seasons) and granite curb lead times, the resolution was adopted by voice vote with unanimous support. - Resolution 7 – Parking Meters and Kiosks (Bid 4180): Proposal to replace outdated kiosks and meters (transition from 3G to new technology) with contracts for POM, Inc. and Duncan Technologies for dual space meters and Flowbird for kiosks. Director John DeGidio explained the need to replace broken equipment to restore revenue. A motion to refer to Planning, Zoning & Housing (PZ&H) committee passed 8-7 after debate over whether referral was necessary. - Resolution 8 – Parking Management Systems (Bid 4180): Contract with NetTech Solutions and MPAY2PARK for parking management and pay-by-cell services. An existing vendor, no price changes for consumers, improvements like text-to-pay. Again a motion to refer to PZ&H committee passed 8-7. Key Outcomes - Veto sustained (8-7): The mayor's veto of the appointment of Shayne Livingston as Clerk of Committees was upheld. - Minutes approved: Minutes of the September 11, 2024 regular meeting were approved. - Petition referred: A traffic study and speed mitigation on Monroe Street (Corbin Avenue to Arch Street) was sent to the police commission. - Indigenous Peoples' Day: Resolution adopted, recognizing the second Monday of October each year as Indigenous Peoples' Day in New Britain. - National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Adopted, with remarks from Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra celebrating the city’s inclusive programs. - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Adopted, with statistics: 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer; 1 in 36 will die; 40,000 women die annually. - Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Adopted, noting that 24 people per minute are victims of intimate partner violence (over 12 million annually). The Prudence Crandall Center was highlighted. - Every Kid Counts After School Program: $338,800 in state grants approved for after-school programs at six elementary schools. - John Downey Drive Corridor Improvements: Contract awarded to Martin Laviero Contractor ($5,386,083.50); project fully funded by state grants; expected construction start in spring 2025. - Parking Meter/Kiosk and Management Contracts: Both referred to PZ&H committee for further review, despite calls to approve immediately. Meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM.

The Committee on Administration, Finance and Law and Public Services of the New Britain Common Council held a public hearing and regular meeting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 6:32 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The meeting was called to order and adjourned at 6:36 PM. The sole action was a favorable recommendation on an extension agreement with New Britain Emergency Medical Services, Inc. Public Hearing - Chief Chardulo (New Britain Emergency Medical Services) presented a favorable recommendation for the extension agreement. He explained that the agreement supports New Britain EMS in areas where the organization has previously struggled with funding, providing opportunities for biomedical equipment, fleet capital replacement, and building improvements. He did not speak in opposition but provided background in support of the agreement. Discussion Items - Item No. 36597 – Extension Agreement between the City of New Britain and New Britain Emergency Medical Services, Inc.: After Chief Chardulo's presentation, committee members had no questions. A motion was made to refer the item with a favorable recommendation. Key Outcomes - Motion to refer Item No. 36597 with a favorable recommendation: Approved unanimously by voice vote (all ayes, no nays). The item will proceed to the full Common Council for further consideration.

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included public participation, consideration of zoning petitions, adoption of several resolutions, and discussion of city finances and infrastructure. The meeting adjourned at 8:37 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury Road) criticized city officials for decades of neglect of storm sewer systems in Allen Street and Hampton Eaton basins, stating that infrastructure is at crisis levels and that his home’s foundation wall has been breached by floodwater. He urged immediate action and noted the city is installing a 66-inch pipe on Allen Street. - John Christoph (292 Linwood Street) questioned water billing changes and whether the overlook project fixes only 10-year flooding problems without addressing 100-year risks. - Amy Bazorski (70 Sunny Slope Drive), a CCSU faculty member and director of the Racial Justice Certificate Program, condemned former Mayor Timothy Stewart’s anti-Asian Facebook comments and called for his removal from the School Building Committee. She argued leaders must stand up to racism. - Ann Spire condemned racist hate speech by Stewart and requested removal of Stewart’s name from the community room at the police station, suggesting it be renamed for Chief Wardwell. - Bill Shortell (947 West Main Street) celebrated Stewart’s resignation but warned against continued bigotry. He criticized the broader political climate. - Roy Centeno (289 Splate Road), former council member, shared personal experiences of being called a slur and urged leaders to denounce prejudice. - Paul Cantonzero (250 Hill Hurst Avenue) criticized the council for spending two and a half hours on a ceasefire resolution, arguing they should focus on local issues and represent all 70,000+ residents without partisanship. Response by Council Members - Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra acknowledged attending a meeting about water issues on Overlook and McKinley and confirmed a meeting with Allen Street residents. She condemned hate speech but cautioned against “selective outrage,” noting that a Democratic council member had previously engaged in obscene behavior and was not removed from the council. She urged accountability regardless of party. - Alderman Simpson agreed on selective outrage and noted the council passes symbolic resolutions (e.g., Polish Festival, Black History Month) as part of its role. He defended the ceasefire resolution as a unanimous act. - Alderwoman (unidentified) thanked speakers, condemned discrimination, and called for ongoing conversations to build community. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items A through J and L through U) was approved unanimously by roll call (13 ayes). These included claims reports, various City Plan Commission recommendations (e.g., zoning amendments, traffic studies), early voting location report, standing claim subcommittee report, and recommendations from the Zoning Subcommittee and Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing. - Item K (Early Voting Location at Senior Center) was approved separately after Mr. Peter Gostin (Republican Registrar of Voters) explained the 14-day early voting schedule (Oct 21 – Nov 3), hours, and same-day registration requirements. Petitions - Seven zoning petitions (Items 1–7 from Ald. Smedley) were introduced to amend setback regulations, remove conflicting provisions, screen mechanicals, clarify fence heights, establish impervious coverage limits, adjust landscaping requirements for parking lots, and define smoke shop separation. All were referred to the City Plan Commission and Zoning Committee. - An eighth petition from Ald. McNamara to report on Beehive Bridge Festival expenses and revenues was referred to Parks and Recreation. Discussion Items - Reconsideration of Resolution 36598 (Public Bids No. 4181 and 4183 – on-call electrical, HVAC, plumbing, etc.): Ald. McNamara moved to refer to the Administration, Finance and Law Committee for vetting. Motion carried. - Resolution 1 (Item 36576) – PILOT agreement with Housing Authority and JHM Group (39-year, $750 per unit): Adopted after Ald. Smedley noted language changes removing reference to Mount Pleasant Apartments. - Resolutions 2–8 – Zoning amendments (removing caretaker dwellings in RO district, named building signs in CBD, dimensional standards in multifamily districts, historically significant building protections, roofed porch projections, zoning permit process, accessory dwelling units): Each adopted after brief discussion. Ald. Smedley described 8 as eliminating an unnecessary new section. - Resolution 9 – Ground lease and land disposition agreement with Housing Authority and JHM Group: Ald. Smedley moved to amend the resolution by striking references to JHM Group in several paragraphs. Amendment adopted; then resolution adopted as amended. - Resolution 10 – Appointment of Shayne Livingston as Common Council Clerk of Committees: Adopted after questions. Ms. Livingston introduced herself as a lifelong New Britain resident with experience in schools and coaching. Some council members noted the resume was not shared with all caucuses. - Resolution 12 – Acceptance of $14,968.68 state grant for early voting implementation: Adopted after Mr. Gostin explained the grant formula and costs. - Resolution 13 – 10-year lease agreement for new voting tabulators at $1 from Secretary of State’s pilot program: Adopted after Mr. Gostin described equipment improvements, training, and security protocols. - Resolution 14 – Tax abatements, corrections, refunds (approx. $246,000 in properties, $56,900 in vehicles): Adopted. - Resolution 15 – Neighborhood flood relief initiative for owner-occupied properties: Referred to AFL Committee. - Resolution 16 – FY 2023–2024 budget transfer and amendment (General Fund): Adopted by roll call (13 ayes). Finance Director Jonathan Pierre-Jean detailed sources of surplus (2.8M under budget expenses, +5.8M interest income, +1.5M tax liens, +2.7M MERSA grant, etc.) and allocations to pension funds, self-insurance, capital projects (road paving $2.5M, Mount Pleasant $600,000, school renovations, parks). Ald. McNamara requested more historical data for future transparency. - Resolution 17 – DEEP grant for Stanley Loop Trail Neighborhood Connections project ($6M+?): Adopted. - Resolution 18 – Additional design work for Beeline Trail Phase 3 ($163,000 to Fuss & O’Neil): Adopted. - Resolution 19 – On-call engineering services for landfill monitoring ($31,000 to CMG Environmental): Adopted. - Resolution 20 – CRCOG Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2024–2029: Referred to AFL. - Resolution 21 – Conveyance of Black Rock Avenue right-of-way parcels from CT DOT: Referred to City Plan Commission and PZH Committee. - Announcement: Mayor Stewart (or council member) announced a $6,070,952 grant from the state’s Community Investment Fund for the “Transforming East Main” project to demolish the old public works yard and realign Route 174. Key Outcomes - Referred to AFL Committee: Resolution 36598 (on-call contracts), Resolution 15 (flood relief), Resolution 20 (hazard mitigation plan). - Referred to City Plan and Zoning Committee: Petitions 1–7. - Referred to Parks and Recreation: Petition regarding Beehive Bridge Festival. - Adopted unanimously: Consent agenda items A–J, L–U; Items K, 1–10, 12–14, 17–19. - Adopted as amended: Resolution 9. - Adopted by roll call (13 ayes): Resolution 16 (budget transfer). - Item 11 withdrawn: Demand for removal of Timothy Stewart from School Building Committee (Mr. Stewart had resigned). - Meeting adjourned: 8:37 PM.