Public Meetings - New Britain, Connecticut

The Common Council of the City of New Britain held a public hearing on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 6:33 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, to consider two agenda items: Item 36699 (purchase and sale agreement and development agreement for 25 Gilbert Street) and Item 36723 (conveyance from the Connecticut Department of Transportation of multiple right-of-way parcels along Route 72 and Route 9). The hearing was called to order at 6:33 PM after a motion to waive the reading of the legal notice was approved. No members of the public came forward to speak, and no call-in testimony was received. The hearing adjourned at 6:37 PM. A Planning, Zoning, and Housing subcommittee meeting followed immediately. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was conducted without any public comment or testimony. - The hearing adjourned at 6:37 PM, and no votes or decisions were taken on the agenda items during the hearing itself; further consideration was anticipated in subsequent subcommittee and council meetings.

The New Britain Common Council met on February 26, 2025, at 7:33 PM after public participation from 7:01 PM. The meeting included public comments, adoption of a consent agenda, and action on nine agenda items including resolutions recognizing Dominican Republic Independence Day, approving a tax assessment modification for a major commercial project, and referring amendments to city codes. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, and C were approved unanimously: (A) Sale of surplus vehicles and equipment, (B) Approval of minutes of Common Council committee meetings, (C) Authorization to execute a tax assessment modification agreement with Weezy LLC and La Provence Realty, LLC for properties at 1 and 25 Veterans Drive. Public Comments & Testimony - Juan Brito (CCC Bureau of Three) expressed support for the resolution recognizing Dominican Republic Independence Day. - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury) criticized Mayor Stewart for ignoring the Allen Street flood project timeline, claiming she diverted funds to higher-profile projects and that a planned $4 million transfer never happened. He called the mayor's actions "disqualifying behavior." - Juan Tejeda (Wethersfield, representing Latin Empowered Dreamers) supported the Dominican Republic Independence Day resolution, noting the community's growth and the desire to raise the flag in New Britain. - Kyrie Herrera (New Haven) supported the Dominican Republic resolution on behalf of her community. - Maheel Santana (president of Ledre/Latin Empowered Dreamers) supported the resolution, emphasizing the importance of cultural recognition for the Dominican and Latin community. - Jody Dennell (Windsor, invited by Natalia Grin) shared her experience traveling to Ukraine in February 2023, describing the war's impact, and spoke in support of Ukraine. - Natalia Grin (Wethersfield, president of Moya Ukraine) spoke on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion, thanking Connecticut officials for support. - Marika Kuzma (Hartford, Ukrainian American) emphasized Ukraine's importance for global food security and urged continued U.S. support, noting that 97% of Ukrainians voted for independence in 1991. - Lisa Liu (63 Bassett Street, New Britain) raised concerns about rising rents, taxes, and prices, and urged the council to work on initiatives to prevent homelessness. Council members responded, thanking speakers and noting ongoing work on flooding, homelessness, and supportive resolutions. Discussion Items - Petitions / Referrals: Several petitions were referred to committees without debate: - Three zoning ordinance amendments from Alderman Smedley (cannabis retailer hours and sign regulations, driveway allowances in lower-density residential, and screening requirements between business and residential uses in B-1R and CBD-R districts) were sent to the City Plan and Zoning Committee. - A petition from Alderman Russell for cost breakdown of the February 7, 2025 Champions of Change event was sent to the Common Council Office/Council President. - A petition from Alderman Santiago for cost breakdown of the mayor's exploratory campaign announcement was sent to Support Services. - A petition from Alderman Santiago for a parking study on Slater Road and Melikowski Circle was sent to the Police Commission. - Item 1: Motion to accept and refer item to committee (nature unspecified) – approved. - Item 2: Tax assessment modification agreement with Weezy LLC and La Provence Realty, LLC for 1 and 25 Veterans Drive. Alderwoman Scott presented the project: completely refurbished buildings and a new service center, totaling an estimated $12 million, creating jobs, and with Schaller Auto World retaining ownership. Approved. - Item 3: Resolution recognizing February 27 as Dominican Republic Independence Day. Alderwoman Sanchez read the resolution in English and Spanish. Alderman Smedley rose in support, noting his son was born in the Dominican Republic. Approved. - Item 4: Issuance of a license for the annual Little Poland Festival on June 8, 2025 (9 AM–7 PM). Alderman Malinowski described it as a celebration of Polish heritage drawing tens of thousands. Approved. - Item 5: Agreement with Siemens Industry Inc. for police station software and preventive maintenance at $21,345 per year for one year. Alderwoman McAdam presented. Approved. - Item 6: Public Bid No. 4199 for on-call electrical, HVAC, plumbing, building envelope, masonry, and interior repairs for city buildings, with project costs not exceeding $50,000. Referred to Planning, Zoning, and Housing Committee. Approved. - Item 7: Agreement with Frontier Communications to convert to SIP trunking for telephone systems, costing $6,000–$18,000 per year to save money. Alderman Connors presented. Approved. - Item 8: Amendments to the rules of the Civil Service Commission regarding telecommunicator eligibility. Alderman Simpson presented and referred to Planning, Zoning, and Housing Committee. Approved. - Item 9: Amendments to Chapter 2, Article XIX of the Code of Ordinances (Fair Rent Commission). Alderman Hargraves presented a strike-all amendment to Section E(3) regarding eviction processes, which was approved. The amended resolution was then referred to the Administration, Finance, and Law and Public Service Committee. Alderman Simpson spoke in support, noting the change makes the fair rent commission more accessible. Approved. - Point of Personal Privilege: Alderman Connors spoke on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, reaffirming support for Ukraine's sovereignty and honoring residents of Ukrainian descent. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (Items A–C) was adopted unanimously with no discussion. - Items 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 were adopted unanimously. - Items 1, 6, 8, and 9 were referred to respective committees for further review. - The meeting adjourned at 7:54 PM.

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The meeting began with public participation at 7:01 PM, followed by the regular session at 7:19 PM and adjournment at 7:48 PM. The council addressed public comments, approved the consent agenda (with one item removed for separate discussion), and adopted all eight resolutions, including amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury Road) criticized Mayor Stewart for failing to prioritize the Allen Street storm sewer project over the past 12 years, stating that over 50 properties continue to flood. He urged city officials to complete a cost-benefit analysis and fund the upgrades. - Margaret Mesage Schmidt (6 Hampton Street) expressed frustration with repeated basement flooding and sewer backups, supporting city bonding if necessary to complete the project. - John Kristofic (292 Lindwich Street) provided calculations estimating $1.5 million in tax savings over 10 years for the Shalers tax abatement, which he considered deserved. He also criticized the mayor's recent announcement, noting a disconnect between the mayor's household income ($191,000/year) and the city's median ($57,000/year). Consent Calendar - Items A, C, D, E, and F were approved unanimously on a roll call vote of 11-0. - Item A: BBC Auto Repair LLC petition for a certificate of location approval at 66 St. Clair Avenue (referred to City Plan Commission and Zoning Committee). - Item C: Emergency purchase order of $48,253.00 to Amano-McGann, Inc. for security gate system at Martha Hart Park. - Item D: Sale of surplus vehicles and equipment. - Item E: Finance Department monthly report of all checks cut by the city. - Item F: Committee recommendation for tax modification agreement with Ellis Stanley Land LLC (later taken up as Resolution 1). - Item B (Finance Department response on audit status) was removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion. Financial Director Jonathan Perugini confirmed the audit for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, is on track for completion by March 31, 2025. The council approved item B unanimously. Discussion & Resolutions - Resolution 1 – Tax Modification Agreement with Ellis Stanley Land LLC (Alderman Connors): Provided a tax exemption for solar panels on land adjacent to a housing development. Alderman Connors offered a friendly amendment to add language: "for a 10-year period with an option to apply to the common council for an additional period of exemption." The amendment was adopted, and the resolution as amended was approved unanimously. Alderwoman Beloin-Savedra clarified that the land remains taxable at the full rate. - Resolution 2 – Recognition of February as Black History Month (Alderman Hargraves): Passed unanimously. Alderman Gibson spoke on the importance of unity and criticized being excluded from a city black history tribute; Alderwoman Scott noted ongoing events and honored figures Fred Hampton and Malcolm X. - Resolution 3 – Recognition of Lunar New Year (Alderwoman Scott): Passed unanimously. - Resolution 4 – Conveyance from CT DOT of right-of-way parcels along Route 72 and Route 9 (Alderman Santiago): Referred to City Planning Commission and Planning, Zoning, and Housing Committee. - Resolution 5 – $25,975.30 to Johnson Controls Inc. for fire alarm control panel upgrade at Water Treatment Plant (Alderman Simpson): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 6 – $14,884.00 to Harper Haines Fluid Control for pressure reducing/sustaining valves for Leona Lane Pressure Regulating Facility (Alderman Malinowski): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 7 – Budget amendment for FHWA Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Grant (Alderwoman Sanchez): Established accounts for $300,000 grant (80% federal, 20% municipal). Alderwoman Beloin-Savedra detailed the Vision Zero task force work, noting 31% of accidents involve roadway departures and 38.7% are intersection crashes. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 8 – Tax abatements, corrections, and refunds (Alderman McNamara): Total of $32,984 in property abatements, $14,181 in vehicle abatements, and $25,582 in excess payment refunds. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (A, C, D, E, F) approved 11-0. - Item B (audit update) approved unanimously. - Resolution 1 approved as amended (tax modification with Ellis Stanley Land LLC). - Resolutions 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8 approved unanimously. - Resolution 4 referred to committee. - Meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM.

The Committee on Administration, Finance and Law and Public Services held a public hearing and regular meeting on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 6:32 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, New Britain, Connecticut. The sole agenda item was a resolution to authorize a tax assessment modification agreement with Weezy LLC and La Provence Realty LLC for properties at 1 and 25 Veterans Drive (Schaler Honda and the former Mitsubishi dealership). The meeting adjourned at 6:49 PM. Public Hearing - The public hearing was opened for agenda item 36706. Attorney Michael Carrier and Art Schaler Jr. (owner/manager of the applicant entities) spoke in support of the resolution. They requested a 10-year phase-in of the tax assessment increase tied to a major renovation project with an investment of north of $12 million. They highlighted the company's 71-year history in New Britain, charitable contributions, and the project's economic benefits (retaining the dealership, creating more technician jobs). - No other public speakers were present in person or online. Discussion Items - Project Description & Justification: Art Schaler Jr. explained the project's long history (starting in 2016), delays due to Honda's market study and prototype changes, and the need for a new tax modification agreement (an earlier agreement from 2021 lapsed). The project will gut and renovate the main Honda showroom (1 Veterans Drive) with a two-story glass facade, a larger service drive, and 29 technician stalls (up from 15). The used car building (25 Veterans Drive, former Mitsubishi) will also receive a facelift and interior reconfiguration. Phase one (main building) is expected to be completed in about seven months; phase two will follow. - Council Questions: - Alderman McNamara asked about the timeline; Schaler replied seven months for the first building, with environmental work already underway. The request to start the phase-in in October 2025 was because the first building would be substantially complete this year. - Alderman Santiago thanked Schaler for staying in New Britain and asked about community benefits. Schaler cited the retention of the business, long-standing local charity support, and additional jobs (29 technician stalls vs. 16 originally). - Alderman Russell asked about the used car building plans; Schaler described the exterior and interior changes for phase two. - Alderman Gibson thanked Schaler for community support. - Alderman (chair) asked a hypothetical question about a potential Nissan merger; Schaler confirmed it would not affect the dealership. - No opposition to the resolution was expressed by any committee member. Key Outcomes - Motion to refer with a neutral recommendation: A motion was made and seconded; all members voted in favor (aye). The motion carried, referring the resolution to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation. - Adjournment: A motion to adjourn by Alderman Santiago, seconded by Alderman Simpson, passed unanimously at 6:49 PM.

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on January 22, 2025, beginning at 7:05 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included public testimony on infrastructure and immigration issues, the unanimous adoption of a consent agenda and several resolutions, and the referral of a tax agreement. Several petitions by the absent Alderman Smedley were listed on the agenda but were not taken up. Consent Calendar The Council unanimously approved (13-0) Items A through G, including the monthly checks report from the Finance Department, a Zoning Subcommittee recommendation to regulate the screening of rooftop and ground-mounted mechanicals and dumpsters, and recommendations from the Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing to amend city code sections (7-62, 11-16, 11-38, 21-72, 21-168) to comply with Connecticut General Statutes Section 49-73b. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury) described the Allen Street infrastructure system, spanning 177 acres, as being at a "crisis level." He detailed how intense rainfall overflows the storm sewer system and retention pond, leading to flooding with contaminated water containing bacteria, fecal matter, and motor oil. He reiterated that the project is a high priority, noting Mayor Stewart had called it the city's "most pressing need" in 2013. - Roy Centennial (289 Slater Road) voiced opposition to the New Britain Police Department collaborating with federal ICE/INS agents for deportations, specifically targeting families from schools and churches. - Council Responses: Alderwoman Scott addressed both speakers, noting she would discuss the immigration question with the police department. The Presiding Officer affirmed the council's commitment to adhering to Connecticut laws and protocols that respect the human rights of all individuals. Discussion Items and Resolutions - Item 1 (Ord. 36628-3 – Mechanical and Dumpster Screening): Alderman Connors moved adoption, stating the amendment enhances the streetscape by regulating outdoor mechanicals and dumpsters, preventing them from being viewable from the street. The motion carried. - Items 2-6 (Code Consistency with State Statutes): Alders Barbosa, Scott, Hargraves, Malinowski, and McAdam each moved to adopt amendments to align city code sections with Connecticut General Statutes Section 49-73b. The agenda identifies the specific sections as 7-62, 11-16, 11-38, 21-72, and 21-168, though Alderman Hargraves referenced the item as pertaining to section 11-30 in his remarks. Alderwoman Scott specified that the amendment to Sec. 11-16 provides residents a 10-day notice to cure violations. Alderman Malinowski noted that the amendment to Sec. 21-72 allows the Public Works department to repair sidewalks and place a lien on the property. All motions carried. - Item 7 (Muslim American Heritage Month): Alderwoman Scott presented the resolution designating January as Muslim American Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions of Muslim Americans. She expressed strong support for the resolution. Alderwoman Beloin Savedra clarified she was the original requester of the resolution, expressed disappointment at not being asked to present it, but stated her full support. The resolution carried. - Item 8 (SCADA Upgrade at Shuttle Meadow Water Treatment Plant): Alderman Simpson moved to authorize a $30,000 contract amendment with CDM Smith for monitoring and diagnostic equipment at the treatment plant. The motion carried. - Item 9 (Tax Assessment Modification Agreement for Shaylor Automotive): Alderman Santiago moved to refer the agreement for properties at 1 and 25 Veterans Drive to the Committee on Administration, Finance, Law, and Public Service. The referral carried. - Other Business: Alderwoman Barbosa requested a study to convert the two-way stop at Judd Avenue and Market Street into a four-way stop, which was referred to the Police Commission. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Adopted: Finance reports, mechanical/dumpster screening recommendation, and six code consistency amendments passed unanimously (13-0). - Zoning Ordinance Adopted: Regulations for dumpster and building mechanical screening (Item 1). - Code Amendments Adopted: Five code sections amended to align with state statutes (Items 2-6). A discrepancy was noted between the agenda (Sec. 11-38) and Alderman Hargraves' remarks (Sec. 11-30) for Item 4. - Resolution Adopted: January designated as Muslim American Heritage Month (Item 7). - Contract Authority Approved: $30,000 for SCADA upgrade monitoring equipment at the water treatment plant (Item 8). - Agreement Referred: Tax assessment modification for 1 and 25 Veterans Drive (Shaylor Automotive) referred to committee (Item 9). - Traffic Study Ordered: Study of a four-way stop at Judd Avenue and Market Street referred to the Police Commission. - Not Acted Upon: Nine petitions and map amendments sponsored by the absent Alderman Smedley, as well as a request from Alderman McNamara regarding the city's independent financial audit, were listed on the agenda but were not considered during the meeting.

The Committee on Administration, Finance and Law and Public Services held a public hearing and special meeting on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 6:01 PM in the Common Council Chambers. The meeting addressed two agenda items: a tax modification agreement for a solar facility at 250 Stanley Street and the minutes of Common Council committee meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. Attorney Michael Carrier (representing the developer) introduced himself and indicated they would speak during the special meeting. Discussion Items - Tax Modification Agreement with Ellis Stanley Land LLC (Item 36666): The committee considered a proposed tax modification agreement for a solar photovoltaic facility to be built on a 3-acre parcel at 250 Stanley Street. The project is part of the Ellis Block redevelopment (321 Ellis Street), which is approximately 95% complete and will provide 154 units of affordable housing. The solar facility, owned by Stanley Street Solar LLC (a Wind Companies entity), is designed to generate approximately $92,787 in annual savings (about $600 per unit per year) for residents through Eversource’s community solar program. The developer requested a 25-year tax exemption on the personal property (solar equipment) while the land would continue to be taxed. The city assessor estimated the tax break over 25 years at approximately $461,000 based on a projected equipment cost of $1.625 million and depreciation schedules. Key discussion points included: the need for a pilot agreement to secure financing, the fixed 20-year power purchase agreement with Eversource, the 0.5% annual degradation in production, decommissioning requirements, and mechanisms to ensure savings are passed to residents. The committee amended the resolution to reduce the exemption period from 25 years to 10 years with an option to renew, and to change the savings language from "approximately" to "up to." The committee then voted to refer the resolution as amended to the full Common Council with a favorable recommendation (all in favor). - Minutes of Common Council Committee Meetings (Item 36686): Alderwoman Beloin-Savage introduced a resolution to amend the standing rules to require committee approval of minutes before posting. Discussion focused on balancing state law requiring minutes to be posted within seven days with the desire for committee affirmation. Corporation counsel clarified that minutes could be posted as draft and later amended. The committee voted to refer the resolution to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation (all in favor). Key Outcomes - Tax Modification Agreement: The committee voted unanimously to approve the resolution as amended (10-year term with option to renew, savings described as "up to $92,787") and referred it to the full Common Council for final action. - Minutes of Common Council Committee Meetings: The committee voted unanimously to refer the resolution (requiring committee approval of minutes) to the full Common Council with a neutral recommendation. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:00 PM.

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on January 8, 2025, at 7:05 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting began with public participation at 7:00 PM, followed by a roll call, invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council approved a consent agenda, adopted ten resolutions, and referred petitions and a property agreement to committees. Key discussions focused on the Allen Street sewer project, development delays, and the John Downey Drive corridor improvements. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Chase (24 Roxbury Road) urged the council to fund the Allen Street sewer project, noting it has been neglected for over 30 years. He stated that the city's 30% commitment ($4 million) would be lost if state bonding fails and asked for a backup emergency bonding plan. He emphasized that millions of dollars have been spent on other projects while the Allen Street issue persisted. - John Kristapic (292 Linwich Street) questioned the delays in several development projects (the Brit, High Railer, The Strand) and criticized the city's spending priorities, including $1 million for the Beehive Trail and $1.681 million for new windows in City Hall, while the orange barriers remain around the Brit. - Andrew Pope (87 Brighton Street) supported Frank Chase, describing his personal experience with sewer backups in his basement. He stated that many affected residents are embarrassed and unwilling to come forward, and urged the council to treat the issue as a non-partisan priority. - Council Responses: Alderwoman Scott, Alderman Simpson, and President Santiago all expressed sympathy and commitment to the Allen Street project. They noted ongoing contact with state representatives (Manny Sanchez, Dave DeFranzo) and offered to meet with affected residents directly. The council acknowledged that the Allen Street project is a funding issue, not a design problem, and that citizen engagement has been crucial. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, C, D (Claims for injuries/property damage, Health and Building response to Oliveira Automotive parking complaints, Police Commission response to crosswalk request on Slater Road, Standing Claims Subcommittee settlement) were approved unanimously (14-0). Discussion Items - Petitions: Three petitions were introduced and referred to appropriate departments: 1. Wayfinding signs for downtown parking – referred to Public Works. 2. Feasibility study on municipal sustainable materials management and waste diversion – referred to Public Works. 3. Traffic study on Sunrise Avenue for speed reduction and pedestrian safety – referred to Police Commission. - Resolutions (Items 1-10): All adopted after discussion: 1. Cervical Cancer Awareness Month – Recognized January 2025. Adopted. 2. Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant – Budget appropriation for public safety initiatives. Adopted. 3. Arts Grant Budget Amendment – $39,380 from CT DECD for arts grants, to be distributed by the New Britain Commission on the Arts. Adopted. 4. Bebeline Trail Phase 2 – Contract with Gerber Construction for $999,925.47, funded by state/federal grants. Adopted. 5. Fire Pump Controller – $51,888.72 for replacement and installation at Shuttle Meadow Water Treatment Plant. Adopted. 6. Three Variable Speed Peristaltic Pumps – For Shuttle Meadow, to replace a failed pump and provide backups. Adopted. 7. Five-Year Service Contract – $51,844 with Charles S. Cramer for UPS for the SCADA system. Adopted. 8. John Downey Drive Corridor Improvements – Contract with Martin Leverio Contractors for $5,386,083.50, funded by municipal bonds, state grants, and federal contributions. Mark Moriarty (Public Works) answered questions: construction will start early spring 2025; the road will be narrowed from 48 feet to two lanes with trees and a multi-use trail to improve pedestrian safety and reduce speeding. The project does not address flooding issues, which are separate and larger-scale (involving West Hartford and Newington). Alderman Barbosa expressed concern about not addressing flooding simultaneously, but the council noted the flooding is a separate, multi-jurisdictional issue requiring significant federal funding. Adopted. 9. CTDOT Active Transportation Microgrant – $5,000 for a biking instruction pilot program at Lincoln Elementary School, in partnership with Bike New Britain. Alderwoman Savedra noted it supports Vision Zero initiatives. Adopted. 10. Purchase and Sale Agreement for 25 Gilbert Street – Originally referred to Maine and Chestnut LLC, but the council amended the title to correct the buyer to Michael F. Campbell (Campbell family). The resolution was then referred to the City Plan Commission and the Committee on Planning, Zoning, and Housing for further review. Adopted as amended. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously (14-0). - All 10 resolutions adopted with no opposition (each passed by voice vote with all ayes). - Petitions referred to departments as noted. - Item 10 amended to correct the buyer name, then referred to committee. - Meeting adjourned at 7:57 PM.

Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for items 36681–36685. Discussion Items Zoning Subcommittee – Item 36628-3 - Proposal: Amend sections of the zoning ordinances related to screening rooftop or ground mounted building mechanicals and dumpsters. - Amendment: Alderman Santiago moved to delete section 2-30-250-10 entirely and renumber subsequent sections. The amendment was seconded by Alderwoman Beloin Savedra and passed unanimously. - Main Motion: As amended, the item was moved to be accepted and referred to the full council with a neutral recommendation. The motion passed. Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing – Items 36681–36685 - Proposal: Five separate ordinance amendments to bring sections 7-62, 11-16, 11-38, 21-72, and 21-168 of the Code of Ordinances into consistency with Connecticut General Statutes §49-73B. - Each item was moved with a neutral recommendation to the full council, seconded, and passed without discussion. Key Outcomes - Zoning Subcommittee: Approved the amendment to delete section 2-30-250-10 and renumber, then approved the amended ordinance (Item 36628-3) for referral to the full council with a neutral recommendation. - Committee on Planning, Zoning and Housing: Approved forwarding Items 36681, 36682, 36683, 36684, and 36685 to the full council with neutral recommendations. All motions carried unanimously. - No other agenda items (e.g., loitering, panhandling, or housing committee creation) were discussed during this meeting.

The New Britain Common Council held its regular meeting on December 11, 2024, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. Public participation ran from 7:00 PM to 7:17 PM, and the regular meeting convened at 7:34 PM and adjourned at 8:25 PM. The council adopted a consent agenda covering numerous zoning amendments and reports, passed several resolutions, and referred items to committees. Public Comments & Testimony - Heather Johnson (323 Oak Street) expressed frustration about Oliveira Automotive storing cars on neighboring streets for weeks, blocking sidewalks, and raising safety concerns. She alleged police overlooking violations due to friendship with the owner’s son. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra responded that she had contacted the police chief and zoning enforcement to investigate. - John Boyd (19 Franklin Square, YWCA Community Health Workers Academy) requested council support to increase participation in the Healthy Homes program by 5% (≈30 additional members) over six months through social media, healthcare collaboration, and data-driven outreach. He sought endorsement of lead remediation in vulnerable neighborhoods, advocacy for state/federal resources, and support for public awareness initiatives. - Andrew Pope (87 Brighton Street) complained about recurring sewer water in his basement, stating it has been a problem for 1.5 years and noted the city’s inaction. - Daniel Bates (Ragged Mountain Foundation) thanked the council for prior support and asked for rock climbing access at the 375 North Shuttle Street property in Southington. He argued liability concerns could be addressed via permitting or insurance. - Mark Kelly (77 Gladiola Street, New Britain resident) supported climbing access, highlighting the property’s connection to regional trails and the benefits of outdoor recreation for physical and mental health. He noted his daughter, a New Britain High School salutatorian, benefited from time outdoors. - Daniel Solano (City Treasurer) wished the council happy holidays and reminded them that budget season begins in about five weeks, urging participation in Board of Finance hearings. Council members responded: Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra stated she is sympathetic to climbing access only if it includes programming for New Britain youth. Alderman Simpson said he supports climbing generally. President Santiago suggested collaboration with the YMCA for youth programming. Consent Calendar - Items A through II (excluding Item P) were approved unanimously (14-0). This included claims, multiple zoning ordinance amendments (setbacks, fence heights, impervious coverage, smoke shops, short-term rentals, signage, site plans, map changes), reports from city departments, police commission responses, and committee recommendations. No objections were raised. Reports & Resolutions Discussed - Item P (Martha Hart Park after-hours gate) – Eric (public works) explained that a security arm was effective at Fairview Cemetery and a similar solution is being pursued for Martha Hart. A quote is in hand, but the city must go to bid. Funds from park security (cell tower money) and $20,000 from capital improvements are available. The council adopted the item. - Item 1 – CRCOG Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan 2024-2029 adopted. - Item 2–8, 10–14 – Various zoning ordinance amendments (setbacks, unused provisions removal, fence heights, impervious coverage, landscaping, smoke shops, signage, site plans, map changes) all adopted. - Item 6 (impervious coverage) – A friendly amendment changed the maximum for highest-use business sites from 100% to 90% to reduce flooding. Adopted. - Item 9 – Short-term rental regulations adopted. - Item 12 – Rezoning from A-1/T to A-2 (moderate density) with map adopted. - Item 13 – Rezoning from I-2/T to B-1R (neighborhood business revitalization) adopted. - Item 14 – Conveyance of Black Rock Avenue right-of-way parcels from CT DOT adopted. - Item 15 – Contract with POM Inc. and Duncan Technologies for parking meters and kiosks (Public Bid 4180). A friendly amendment capped the total project cost at $50,000. Adopted as amended. - Item 16 – Contract with Nettech Solutions for parking management systems and pay-by-cell services. Adopted. - Item 17 – Season’s Greetings resolution adopted. - Item 18 – 2020 Assistance for Firefighters Grant for professional development training (contract with CT Fire Academy) adopted. - Item 19 – 2023 Assistance for Firefighters Grant budget amendment ($522,561.83) for training including safety officer, hazmat, and rope rescue. Adopted. - Item 20 – Federal Highway Safety Funds for Click It or Ticket program ($9,926.72) adopted. Alderman Hargraves urged seatbelt use. - Item 21 – Vision Zero New Britain Goal: reduce fatal and serious injury crashes by 50% by 2035, reaching zero by 2045. The resolution was adopted after discussion noting the task force’s bipartisan work and community survey to come. Council members commended the effort. - Item 22 – Tax abatements, corrections, and refunds ($19,173 for motor vehicles, $17,597 for real property) adopted. - Item 23 – Every Kid Counts After School Program ($100,000 from Consolidated School District) adopted. - Item 24 – Public Bid 4175 with A.M. Rizzo Electrical Contractors ($678,086.92) for traffic signal replacement at South Street, Rocky Hill Avenue, and Roosevelt Street. Adopted. Alderman Hargraves noted it connects New Britain to Newington. - Item 25 – Five-year lease for a copier in City Hall mailroom ($742.26/month) adopted. - Items 26–30 – Referred to the Committee on Planning, Zoning, and Housing to amend city code sections (graffiti removal, garbage, sidewalk neglect, etc.) to be consistent with Connecticut General Statutes. - Item 31 – Minutes of Common Council Committee Meetings. Alderwoman Beloin-Saavedra raised concerns about inaccuracies in committee minutes, particularly the October 2024 PZ&H meeting where motions were described as “illegal” after the fact. She argued minutes should reflect only actions taken, not opinions. Alderman Malinowski supported accurate reflection. Alderman Simpson noted the Freedom of Information Act requires agenda items to be included in public notice and maintained those motions were not in the agenda. The item was referred to the Committee on Administration, Finance, and Law. A brief heated exchange occurred after the vote. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (14-0). - Item P adopted – Martha Hart Park gate to be bid, funded by park security funds and capital. - Resolutions 1–25 adopted (with friendly amendment on Item 15). - Items 26–31 referred to committees. - The meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM.