Jamie Bender

The committee held a meeting where members were formally welcomed and a new chairman for the year was elected. Discussions focused on the distribution of application binders and an overview of CDBG funding history and its significance. The Community Development Director explained changes made to the Public Services application process, presented a new scoring rubric, and clarified how goals are aligned with the Consolidated Plan. Additionally, the committee scheduled upcoming public meetings and engaged in a discussion regarding the performance metrics and compliance expectations for subrecipients.

The council meeting agenda includes honoring H. Tucker Braddock Jr., a discussion on the 5% budget adjustment for the 2026-27 fiscal year, and information regarding State aid. A public hearing is scheduled for the Community Development Block Grant allocation for the 2026 program year. Business resolutions cover entering a Master Municipal Agreement for Rights of Way Projects with the DOT, authorizing the tax collector to sell specific city-owned properties to abutting owners, and authorizing the city manager to enter into real estate listing agreements for multiple city-owned parcels. Additionally, an ordinance aimed at protecting the Norwich Volunteer Fire Service is presented for consideration.

The meeting included a public comment session where three prospective commission members introduced themselves. A member update was provided regarding a resignation from the commission and participation in meetings concerning park redevelopment. The scheduled presentation from the Executive Director of the Norwich Community Development Corporation was cancelled and rescheduled for a future date. Additionally, the commission discussed potential future guest speakers and special events, including an upcoming presentation on the Arthritis Foundation and the Cure JM Foundation, and the possibility of hosting a legislative forum in the fall.

The meeting covered project updates for Greeneville, John B. Stanton, Uncas, and John M. Moriarty Elementary Schools, and Teacher's Middle School. Key actions included discussions on alternate options for digital signage, curbing, and building management controls. The committee considered accepting add-ons for roof screening and authorized the issuance of Limited Notice to Proceed letters to multiple contractors for various structural, roofing, and interior finishing work. Furthermore, a consent agenda regarding the approval of numerous project invoices for construction, consulting, and utility services was processed.

The committee discussed proposed changes to the monthly Board package metrics, agreeing to refresh and streamline the content and adding requirements for clarity and data visualization. A robust discussion was held regarding the Enterprise Risk Management Policy and the Due Diligence Process, focusing on the replacement of the term Projects with Initiatives and establishing approval requirements for wholesale contracts, retail aggregations, special contracts, and new product or service offerings.