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41
OCT 7, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Zoning Subcommittee Public Hearing and Regular Meeting - October 7, 2025

The New Britain Common Council Zoning Subcommittee held a public hearing and regular meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order at 6:38 PM and adjourned at 6:42 PM. The sole agenda item was a petition for a certificate of location approval for a motor vehicle dealer license. Public Hearing - The public hearing was opened for Item No. 36923: Denyz O. Alvarez of Comerio Auto Repair Shop and Auto Sales, seeking a certificate of location approval for 60 St. Clair Avenue, Unit C, to allow the State DMV to issue a motor vehicle dealer license. - No members of the public spoke during the hearing. The applicant briefly approached the microphone but was informed to save comments for the regular meeting agenda item. The hearing was closed with no testimony. Discussion Items - Item 36923 – Certificate of Location Approval: Alderman Smedley moved to accept the item and refer it to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation. The motion was seconded by Alderman Pabone. - Justin Dorsey read the City Plan Commission’s recommendation, which stated that the site has historically been used for automotive repairs and sales without issue, meets all safeguards for motor vehicle sales, and is a suitable location. The Commission recommended approval of the site location application. - No further discussion occurred. Key Outcomes - The Zoning Subcommittee voted unanimously (aye votes on roll call, no nays recorded) to refer Item 36923 to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation. - The meeting adjourned at 6:42 PM. Note: The user provided a meeting timestamp of 2025-10-07 11:30:00+00:00, but the transcript and agenda indicate the meeting started at 6:38 PM local time (Eastern). The date October 7, 2025, is used as instructed.

PROCEDURAL 75% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 25%
42
OCT 1, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Committee on Administration, Finance and Law and Public Services Public Hearing and Regular Meeting - October 1, 2025

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 1, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The sole agenda item was Item No. 36955, a proposal to amend Chapter 2 of the Code of Ordinances to create a uniform term of office for department heads. After hearing public testimony, the committee debated the resolution and ultimately voted to table the item. Public Comments & Testimony - Donald Malinowski (address read as 69 [street not fully recorded]) opposed the ordinance, arguing that a four-year term would deter qualified candidates, especially for positions requiring relocation (e.g., police or fire chief), because a four-year term would not allow vesting in the city's retirement package (five years required). He read from the city charter regarding department head appointment and removal procedures. - Michelle Malinowski (1928 Stanley Street, New Britain, lifelong resident) also opposed, stating that department head continuity is essential for effective government and that a four-year term would diminish the pool of qualified candidates and create a revolving door. She characterized the proposal as a political overreach of council power. - Albert Lucas (66 Harbor Close, New Haven) spoke in support via phone, testifying from personal experience as Director of Legislative Services in New Haven, where a similar provision has been in place since 1992. He stated that New Haven has had no issues attracting quality candidates through national searches and that the system has worked well. Discussion Items - Following the public hearing, Alderman Santiago moved to accept and refer the item to the full council with a neutral recommendation. The motion was seconded by Alderman Simpson. - Alderwoman Scott, though not a voting member of the committee, spoke in favor of the resolution, calling it "good government" and noting that it follows the city charter. She mentioned that some amendments might be needed but urged the committee to move forward. - Alderman Balencived (likely Alderman Bolins of Edra) moved to table the item. The motion was seconded by Alderman Smedley. - A voice vote was taken: 5 in favor of tabling, 3 opposed. The item was tabled. Key Outcomes - The committee voted 5-3 to table Item No. 36955, deferring further consideration. No other motions or decisions were made. - The meeting adjourned at 6:46 PM.

PERSONNEL MATTERS 64% · PROCEDURAL 26% · HISTORIC PRESERVATION 10%
43
SEP 24, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Regular Meeting of the New Britain Common Council - September 24, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the New Britain Common Council was held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Public participation began at 7:00 PM and the regular meeting was called to order at 8:06 PM, adjourning at 8:48 PM. The council heard public comments on multiple topics, considered a consent agenda, and debated resolutions including the appointment of a new Planning and Development Director and a significant budget amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury Road) spoke about the Allen Street Project, accusing Mayor Stewart of neglecting the $6 million shortfall and mismanagement for 30 years. He stated that the project cost has risen from nearly $7 million in 2013 to nearly $15 million in 2025. He opposed spending on pickleball courts, urging funds be used for infrastructure. - Mike Thompson (39 Pendleton Road) criticized Alderman Nate Simpson for inflammatory rhetoric following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. He called for unity and an end to political violence. - John Christapik (292 Linwich Street) complained about a 24% increase in his water bill (Clean Water Fund) and neighborhood issues with new tenants, including lack of property owner contact information. - Roy Centeno (289 Slater Road) opposed the $400,000+ proposed for pickleball courts, arguing funds should go to education and other pressing needs. - Paul Cantonzero (250 Hill Hurst Avenue) spoke in favor of Justin Dorsey's appointment as Planning and Development Director, citing his local roots and experience. - Christy Delaguila (414 Alexander Street) urged the council to rename the pickleball funding to "park improvements" and allow public input. She also called for legislation on masked law enforcement. - Lula Thieves (Canyon Basketball Street, Red News, CT) (online caller) opposed the $170,000 for pickleball, suggested using it for the Allen Street project, and raised concerns about the fairness of the hiring process for the Planning Director. - Nickel Stephen (online caller) urged prioritizing the Allen Street project to prevent property flooding and called for a fair hiring process for the Planning Director position. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, C, and D were approved unanimously by a roll call vote of 15-0. - Resolutions 1 through 10 were approved as follows: 1. Tax Modification Agreement for 125 Columbus Boulevard (affordable housing project - 64 units) - Approved on voice vote. 2. Acceptance of permanent easement for traffic signal equipment (Myrtle Street project) - Approved. 3. Purchase and Sales Agreement with RMS Companies and Heritage Housing Inc for 125 Columbus Boulevard for $500,000 - Approved. 4. Purchase of TSI Portacount Pro 8048T respirator fit testing machine for Fire Department ($12,235 after trade-in) - Approved. 5. Purchase of Unimac washer PPE extractor for Fire Station No. 2 ($13,904) - Approved. 6. Amend Chapter 2 to create uniform term of office for department heads - Referred to the Administration, Finance, and Law and Public Services committee on a voice vote. 7. Every Kid Counts after school program at Lincoln Elementary School - Approved. 8. Appointment of Justin Dorsey as Director of Planning and Development - Approved on a voice vote with audible opposition (Alderwoman Scott recorded a no). 9. Crack sealing of various city streets - Approved. 10. Stanley Loop Trail Neighborhood Connection Project ($466,439.49 contract with Hemlock Construction) - Approved. Discussion Items - Item 8: Appointment of Justin Dorsey as Director of Planning and Development - Council members questioned Mr. Dorsey on his qualifications, including technical knowledge of bike lanes, permeable surfaces, transit-oriented development, and city planning processes. He acknowledged gaps but emphasized his experience and ability to work with staff. Alderwoman Barbosa raised concerns about resume inconsistencies and the timing of the appointment near the end of the mayoral term. Others, including Alderman Malinowski, Alderwoman Savagedra, and Alderman Smedley, supported his relationships and commitment to the city. The motion carried on a voice vote; Alderwoman Scott voted no. - Item 11: Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget Transfer and Amendment - Alderman Santiago introduced an amendment to strike the original $470,000 for pickleball courts and instead allocate $370,000 to general park improvements, $50,000 to a security deposits and homelessness prevention program, and $50,000 to ADA-compliant sidewalk repairs. The amendment was seconded by Alderwoman Savagedra and passed on a voice vote. The council then voted on the resolution as amended, with a unanimous 15-0 roll call in favor. Several members credited public input for the change. Key Outcomes - Appointment of Justin Dorsey as Director of Planning and Development was approved (majority voice vote, one dissent). - Budget amendment (Item 11) was adopted unanimously (15-0) after a successful amendment redirecting $470,000 from pickleball courts to park improvements ($370,000), homeless prevention security deposits ($50,000), and ADA sidewalk repairs ($50,000). - Item 6 (uniform term for department heads) was referred to committee for further review. - All other consent items were approved without debate. - The council acknowledged public input as influential in the budget amendment decision.

PUBLIC SAFETY 35% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 17% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 12% · PROCEDURAL 10%
44
SEP 22, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
New Britain Zoning Subcommittee and Planning Committee Meeting - September 22, 2025

The meeting convened at 6:34 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, with a quorum present. The session began with a public hearing for the Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing on item 36913, followed by the Zoning Subcommittee public hearing and special meeting on five zoning text amendments (items 36881–36885). After the Zoning Subcommittee adjourned, the Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing reconvened for a public hearing and special meeting on two additional items (36912 and 36913). All public hearings had no speakers. All items were referred to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during any of the public hearings. Discussion Items — Zoning Subcommittee Item 36881: Zoning Amendment to Allow Day Care Facilities in Certain Districts - City Planner Jeff Cormier presented the amendment, which updates antiquated regulations to permit daycare facilities (12+ children) in B1, B1R, B2, B3, and TOD districts, aligning with state classifications. The City Plan Commission recommended approval, noting the need for child care and utilization of underused buildings. - Alderwoman Beloin Savedra moved to refer to the council with a neutral recommendation; seconded by Alderman Pabone. The motion carried unanimously. Item 36882: Zoning Amendment for Fences in CBD and Historic Districts - Mr. Cormier explained the amendment clarifies fence height in the I-1 district, adds CBDR district regulations, limits corner lot side-yard fence height to 4 feet for visibility, and prohibits silver/vinyl chain link fences in historic districts and CBD front yards. Vacant lots are now subject to the same standards. The City Plan Commission recommended approval. - Alderman Santiago moved to refer with a neutral recommendation; seconded by Alderwoman Beloin Savedra. The motion carried unanimously. Item 36883: Zoning Amendment to Adjust Lot Coverage in A-2, I-3, and TOD Districts - The amendment increases building coverage ratios to better balance impervious coverage and reduce excessive parking. For example, A-2 lot coverage rises from 30% to 50% (impervious remains 75%). The City Plan Commission recommended approval. - Discussion clarified that the amendment does not alter previously passed pervious surface requirements. Alderman Pabone asked about enforcement, which is triggered by site plan review or complaints. Alderwoman Barbosa inquired about accessory dwelling unit (ADU) parking; Mr. Cormier confirmed ADUs require a separate parking space via special exception. Alderman Hargraves asked about potential state preemption of parking minimums; the city planner noted any such legislation would supersede local rules. - Alderwoman Beloin Savedra moved to refer with a neutral recommendation; seconded by Alderman Santiago. The motion carried unanimously. Item 36884: Zoning Amendment for Mechanical Screening in Industrial Districts - The amendment exempts the I-1 district (John Downey Drive) from rooftop mechanical screening requirements, but retains screening for I-2 and I-3 districts adjacent to residential uses. The City Plan Commission recommended approval, citing cost savings for industrial businesses while protecting nearby residences. - Alderman Santiago questioned the exemption given walkability improvements in the area; Mr. Cormier noted the large building scale and burden. Alderman McNamara confirmed flexibility in screening materials. - Alderman Santiago moved to refer with a neutral recommendation; seconded by Alderwoman Beloin Savedra. The motion carried unanimously. Item 36885: Zoning Amendment for Off-Street Parking — Maximum Driveway Width and Tandem Parking - The amendment limits curb cuts to 40% of the lot frontage (max 20 feet in residential districts) and allows tandem parking only within the same residential unit to prevent conflicts. Existing non-conforming parking is grandfathered. The City Plan Commission recommended approval. - No further discussion; the motion to refer with a neutral recommendation, made by Alderman Santiago and seconded by Alderman Russell, carried unanimously. Discussion Items — Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing Item 36912: Acceptance of Permanent Easement for Traffic Signal Equipment — Myrtle Street Complete Street Project - Mr. Cormier read the City Plan Commission’s positive recommendation, noting the project aligns with the Complete Streets Master Plan. - Alderwoman Beloin Savedra moved to refer with a neutral recommendation; seconded by Alderman Russell. The motion carried unanimously. Item 36913: Purchase and Sale Agreement with RMS Companies and Heritage Housing Inc. for 125 Columbus Boulevard ($500,000) - The City Plan Commission recommended a favorable report, citing the site’s designation for high-density residential redevelopment in the Plan of Conservation and Development. - Alderwoman McAdam (or designee) moved to accept and refer with a neutral recommendation; seconded by Alderwoman Beloin Savedra. The motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - All seven agenda items were referred to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation. For each item, the motion passed unanimously with no opposed votes. - The public hearings for the Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing (items 36913 and 36912) and the Zoning Subcommittee (items 36881–36885) each had no public speakers. - The meeting adjourned at 7:28 PM.

PROCEDURAL 46% · ZONING REGULATIONS 39% · LOT COVERAGE 5% · CHILD CARE 4%
45
SEP 10, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Regular Meeting of the Common Council – September 10, 2025

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on September 10, 2025, at 7:21 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included public participation, approval of consent agenda, and unanimous adoption of 18 resolutions covering traffic safety, cultural recognitions, public works, and community events. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury) criticized Mayor Stewart for failing to upgrade the Allen Street storm sewer system over 30 years, including 12 years under the current administration. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra responded that the city had committed $6 million while the state only provided $2 million, contrary to initial promises of a one-third city match. - Michelle Stewart Copes (281 Rocky Hill Ave), chair of the NAACP Economic Development Committee, spoke in support of the multicultural business directory petition, emphasizing its potential to boost economic revenue and support local multicultural businesses. - Tina Santana spoke in favor of the ordinance targeting motorized street takeovers, describing the noise and safety hazards affecting her special needs children and urging police to have more enforcement tools. Consent Calendar - Items A, C, D, E, and F were approved unanimously (15-0). Item B (sale of surplus vehicles) was removed from consent and later approved separately. The consent items included: claims for injuries/property damage, finance department report, Festa Italiana 2025 recommendation, traffic study request at 121 Belmont Street, and an ordinance amendment on motor scooters and off-road vehicles (Item F). Discussion Items - Petitions: Five petitions were referred to appropriate departments: traffic enforcement at Alexander Road and Country Club Road; installation of a "No Outlet" sign at Belridge Road and Batterson Drive; creation of a multicultural business listing category on VisitNBCT.com; police monitoring of Lawlor Street and LaSalle Street; and pavement assessment on Oneida and Sachem Streets. - Resolution 1 (Ordinance Amendment on Motor Scooters, Dirt Bikes, etc.): Adopted unanimously. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra noted it provides police with additional enforcement tools, including vehicle confiscation and increased fines for organizers. Several alderpersons shared personal stories, with Alderwoman Barbosa recalling her brother's fatal motorcycle accident. - Resolution 11 (Vision Zero Safety Action Plan): Adopted unanimously. Mark Moriarty presented the plan, which analyzed 6,000 crashes (2019-2023), with an average of 23 serious injuries/fatalities per year. The goal is a 50% reduction by 2035 and zero fatalities by 2045. Key actions include redesigning dangerous intersections, automated enforcement cameras, improved lighting, and concurrent pedestrian crossing phases. The plan also highlights the Lincoln School Bicycle Education Program, which received a Vision Zero award. - Resolution 12 (Automated Traffic Enforcement Vendor Selection): Adopted unanimously. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra explained this is step 2 of a 5-step process; the vendor was selected unanimously from a pre-qualified list. The program is cost-neutral, with the vendor paid through violations. Final locations will require a public hearing and council approval. - Resolution 13 (K9 Purchase): Adopted unanimously. The council approved $9,000 for a German Shorthaired Pointer named Yeti from K9 Guardian, Inc. Chief of Police described the canine unit expansion to five dogs, including two shepherds, two pointers, and a bloodhound, used for tracking, apprehension, and evidence recovery. - Other Resolutions (2-10, 14-18): All adopted unanimously. These included: Festa Italiana (Sept 14), Puerto Rican Festival (Sept 14), Puerto Rican Flag Raising (Sept 12), Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15-Oct 15), Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, Patriot Day (Sept 11), POW/MIA Recognition Day (Sept 19), Leukemia/Lymphoma/Myeloma Awareness Month, Neighborhood Century Celebration on North Brighton Street, LoCIP budget amendment (revised to $1,515,489.11), sand purchase for snow/ice control ($16.25/cubic yard), authorization to apply for federal Highlands designation, purchase of roll-out trash containers ($32,684), and tax abatements/corrections/refunds. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and agenda items were adopted unanimously. No votes in opposition were recorded. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:51 PM after completing the entire agenda.

PROCEDURAL 23% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 17% · WATER AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT 10% · PUBLIC SAFETY 10%
47
SEP 3, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Public Hearing and Regular Meeting of Administration, Finance, Law and Public Services Committee - September 3, 2025

The Committee on Administration, Finance and Law and Public Services held a public hearing and regular meeting on September 3, 2025, at 6:31 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The primary agenda item was a tax modification agreement for 125 Columbus Boulevard, a proposed 100% affordable housing development. After a presentation by Director Jack Benjamin and discussion among council members, the committee voted to refer the item to the full council with a favorable recommendation. Discussion Items - Tax Modification Agreement for 125 Columbus Boulevard (Item 36914): Director Jack Benjamin presented the proposal. The project, Columbus Commons Phase II, is a partnership between Heritage Housing (affordable housing expertise) and RMS Companies (construction). It will consist of 64 units (mix of one- and two-bedrooms) with rents restricted to households earning between 30% and 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). The proposed 18-year tax modification requires the developer to pay 10% of annual shelter rents in lieu of taxes. Benjamin explained that the tax modification is essential to secure Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and other state/federal financing, and that without it the project would not be financially viable. He showed a chart comparing tax revenue: vacant land (minimal), modified (10% of rents), and full taxation (unattainable without subsidy). - Council members asked questions about the income mix. Alderman Santiago and Alderwoman Scott pressed for a higher percentage of units at 30% AMI. Alderwoman Bulav-Savedra noted she served on the selection panel and stressed council's desire for more deeply affordable units. David McCarthy of Heritage Housing explained the LIHTC requirement: the project's overall average must be below 60% AMI, resulting in 8 units at 30% AMI, 26 at 50%, 22 at 60%, and 8 at 80% AMI. He noted that adding more 30% units would require adding more 80% units to maintain the average. Alderman Simpson expressed support, noting that even the 80% units still serve lower-income households compared to market averages. Alderwoman Scott and Alderman McNamara also voiced support, with McNamara calling the system unfair but necessary. - A technical amendment was offered by the chair to add correct ordinance sections (after the second-to-last whereas, referencing sections 2-9 and 2-10). The amendment passed by voice vote. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously (voice vote) to refer the resolution for the tax modification agreement to the full Common Council with a favorable recommendation. - The meeting adjourned at 7:02 PM. - The resolution as amended will go before the full council for final approval.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING 53% · PROCEDURAL 26% · MISCELLANEOUS 11% · ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6%
48
AUG 28, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Special Meeting of New Britain Common Council Appoints Department Heads – August 28, 2025

This special meeting was called to consider two appointments: the Director of Health and the Director of Licenses, Permits, and Inspections. The meeting was held at 6:14 PM in Council Chambers and adjourned at 6:38 PM. Thirteen council members were present. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident, speaking during the public participation portion, referenced a recent mass school shooting that killed two children (ages 8 and 10) and injured 14 children and 3 adults, and called for action on gun violence. The Mayor paused for a moment of reflection. No other public comments were made. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Appointment of Caleb Cowles as Director of Health: Alderman Smedley moved to accept the mayor’s selection. Alderman Scott proposed an amendment to limit the appointment term to February 1, 2026, citing Charter Section 8-2b. Corporation counsel clarified that the charter requires a term of at least four years unless modified by ordinance, which had not been passed. The amendment failed on a voice vote. During debate, Alderman Scott opposed the appointment, arguing the process was not transparent (resumes not provided to all council members, timing inappropriate as the mayor is leaving office). She suggested an interim appointment would be permissible and legal. Aldermen Smedley, McNamara, and others supported the appointment, citing Cowles’ strong knowledge of blight issues, his experience in city health, and the pressure from the State Department of Public Health to fill the interim position. The Mayor clarified that both caucuses were included in the interview panel for transparency, and that union contracts limit how long an employee can serve in an interim capacity. Cowles thanked the council and expressed dedication to the city. - Item 2 – Appointment of Michael Nomack as Director of Licenses, Permits, and Inspections: Alderman Smedley moved adoption, repeating a similar process as for the Director of Health. Alderman Scott again expressed concerns about lack of transparency and the need for an interim appointment. Alderman Smedley clarified that both caucuses were invited to the interview panel, contrasting with a prior appointment where resumes were only provided on the meeting day. Alderman Palone stated that the committee had already agreed on the appointment. The motion to call the question was made and carried. Alderman Scott was the only recorded opponent. Key Outcomes - Resolution 1 (Appointment of Caleb Cowles as Director of Health): The amendment to limit the term failed. The main motion carried on a voice vote, with Alderman Scott recorded as the sole opposing vote. Caleb Cowles accepted the appointment. - Resolution 2 (Appointment of Michael Nomack as Director of Licenses, Permits, and Inspections): The motion carried on a voice vote, with Alderman Scott recorded as the sole opposing vote. - The meeting adjourned at 6:38 PM.

PERSONNEL MATTERS 49% · PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 17% · PROCEDURAL 13% · PUBLIC SAFETY 12%
49
AUG 13, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
Regular Meeting of the Common Council – August 13, 2025

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. Public participation began at 7:00 PM, and the regular meeting was called to order at 7:20 PM. The council approved a consent agenda, conducted an executive session on a settlement, and voted on 14 resolutions. All votes were unanimous (12-0) except for three items referred to committees for further review. Public Comments & Testimony - Christy Del Aguila (414 Alexander Road) urged the city to study and install shade systems on playgrounds and splash pads, citing equity and safety concerns for caregivers and those with sun sensitivities. She also called on municipal and state leaders to consider legislation preventing masked law enforcement for nonviolent crimes. - Lisa Lou (133 Graphic? unclear address) reported a close-call bus accident on August 11, 2025, where a car ran a red light and struck the bus. She asked for better information sharing to promote safer driving. - John Kristapik (no address stated) raised concerns about property valuation methods (comparing city valuations to Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds), flooding issues, and questioned the timeline of a project (56% funded, $60 million city contribution over 12 years). He also referenced the mayor’s new position. - Council member (Alderwoman Smedley) responded: thanked Chrissy and agreed to look into shade; advised John to contact the Board of Assessment Appeals; thanked Lisa and urged safe driving. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously (12-0) approved the consent agenda, which included: - Reports of boards, commissions, departments, and legislative committees (Items C–H): - Response on list of city officials authorized to take city vehicles home. - Sale of surplus vehicles and equipment. - Finance Department monthly report of checks cut. - Police Commission responses on speeding enforcement (Farmington Avenue) and illegal parking (Hillcrest Avenue/Brighton Street/Allen Street). - Registrar of Voters early voting schedule for September 9 primary and November 4 general election. - Recognition of August as Black Business Month (Item 1). - Authorization of purchase order to Mammoth Security for $80,927.14 for water filtration plant security upgrade (Item 2). - Authorization of $86,278.54 to Turf Products Corporation and $34,726.76 to Finch Turf for turf equipment (Item 3). - American Savings Foundation grant of $150,000 for after-school programs at Pulaski, Slade, and DiLoreto middle schools (Item 4). - Addition of CHA Consulting, Inc. to professional on-call engineering services list (Item 5). - Budget amendment of $595,726.63 to SLR International Corp. for construction inspection services for the Beeline Trail Phase 3 project (Item 6). - $71,151.85 to DGI Communications for audio equipment and projectors in the Police Department auditorium (Item 7). - $28,885.30 to Gengras Ford for a 2025 Ford Escape for the Health Department (Item 8). - Acceptance of a permanent easement for traffic signal equipment from MTP-1 Celebration Foods LLC for the Myrtle Street Complete Street Improvements project (Item 9 – referred to committee). - Purchase and sales agreement with RMS Companies and Heritage Housing Inc. for 125 Columbus Boulevard for $500,000 (Item 10 – referred to committee). - Tax modification agreement for 125 Columbus Boulevard (Item 11 – referred to committee). - Tax abatements, corrections, and refunds (Item 12 – approximately $77,000 in adjustments). - $24,379.29 to Mammoth Security for a new security system at the Water Department’s main pump building (Item 13). - $32,142 to Mammoth Security for a new CCTV system at the Water Department’s water filtration plant (Item 14). Discussion Items - Resolution 6 (Beeline Trail Phase 3): Council had a brief Q&A with Mark Moriarty, who confirmed the funds came from a RAISE grant through CRCOG, covering construction inspection services for the trail extension to the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. - Resolutions 10 & 11 (125 Columbus Boulevard): Alderwoman Savedra noted that both caucuses were represented on the committee that interviewed developers and mutually agreed on the outcome. Alderwoman Sanchez clarified that the entire project is low- to moderate-income housing. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda (12-0) and all resolutions except those referred to committees. - Resolution 9 (Myrtle Street Complete Street improvements easement) was referred to the Committee on Planning, Zoning, and Housing for further discussion. - Resolution 10 (Purchase and sale agreement for 125 Columbus Boulevard) was referred to the Committee on Planning, Zoning, and Housing. - Resolution 11 (Tax modification agreement for 125 Columbus Boulevard) was referred to the Committee on Administration, Finance, and Law. - All other resolutions (Items 1–8, 12–14) were adopted unanimously. - The council entered executive session at 7:20 PM to discuss the settlement of Chubb Indemnity Insurance Company, et al. v. City of New Britain and returned at 7:33 PM, after which the settlement report (Item B) was accepted unanimously.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 31% · PENDING LITIGATION 21% · PROCEDURAL 14% · ENGINEERING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 7%
50
AUG 12, 2025 · NEW BRITAIN, CONNECTICUT · COMMON COUNCIL
New Britain Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing Meeting - August 12, 2025

The Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing held a public hearing and regular meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a proposal to amend Article VII of Chapter 15 of the City Code of Ordinances to align with Public Act No. 25-80, addressing motor scooters, dirt bikes, minibikes, pocket bikes, bicycles with helper motors, and all-terrain vehicles, particularly in the context of street takeovers. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing either in person or remotely. The public hearing was closed with no testimony. Discussion Items - Item No. 36896 – Ordinance Amendment Regarding Motor Scooters, Dirt Bikes, etc.: The committee considered an ordinance amendment to incorporate provisions from Public Act No. 25-80, giving the city authority to crack down on street takeovers and illegal operation of non-street-legal vehicles. Police Chief Marino explained that the new tool allows police to target individuals who coordinate or participate in street takeovers, including those observing with intent, not just riders. He noted that standard traffic stops are often ineffective because these vehicles can evade police by going off-road or onto sidewalks. The new ordinance increases fines to between $1,000 and $2,000 and permits impoundment and forfeiture of vehicles. - Alderwoman Beloin-Savedra stated her full support, noting that the language is a direct quote from state law and that the ordinance provides needed deterrents for both illegal vehicle operation and organized street takeovers. She emphasized that while New Britain does not have rampant street takeovers, the city should be proactive. - Alderwoman Scott expressed support, citing safety concerns she has heard from residents and her own observation of riders on sidewalks. She noted that the state delegation worked hard to enable this local action. - Alderwoman Barbosa voiced support for the safety goals but expressed concern that innocent bystanders or people recording events might be unfairly targeted under the “observe” language. She asked how police would distinguish between participants and passersby. Chief Marino and other council members clarified that the intent is to target those who gather with the purpose of promoting or participating in the takeover, not people simply walking through. Police would first ask individuals to leave and only take action against those who refuse or are clearly part of the event. - Alderman McNamara asked about the fine amounts and whether they are fixed or up to a maximum. Council responded that $2,000 is the maximum allowed by state enabling legislation, and the city is using that maximum. - Alderwoman Beloin-Savedra further explained that penalties also cover organizers and observers, not just riders, and that the “intent to observe” provision targets those who are part of the group promoting the event, not random bystanders. She called the fines reasonable and hoped they would deter behavior. - Chief Marino added that the department is considering other tools but prefers to use this ordinance first before seeking costly technology. Key Outcomes - Motion to Refer with Favorable Recommendation: A motion by Alderwoman Beloin-Savedra, seconded by Alderman Malinowski, to refer the ordinance amendment (Item No. 36896) back to the full Common Council with a favorable recommendation was approved by a vote of 6 to 1. One alderman voted nay; the identity of that member was not specified in the transcript. - The meeting adjourned at 6:56 PM.

TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 72% · PROCEDURAL 17% · PUBLIC SAFETY 11%
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