James S. Rivers

The meeting included reports on program updates such as the OPM parcel/CAMA grant, LOTCIP, Safe Streets for All, and the PROTECT transportation resilience program. The director's report covered updates on animal control staffing, transit district bus acquisitions and building improvements, regional town administrator support, town revaluations, outreach efforts, and legislative updates regarding the Governor's vetoed bill. Additionally, the council reviewed and approved STIP amendments for the Quinebaug River multi-use trail and asset management group, as well as several text amendments to zoning and subdivision regulations for the Town of Sterling.

The meeting featured a discussion with the Comptroller regarding property tax and MERS pension reforms. Representatives from the CT GIS Office presented on legislative mandates and data tools, while the BETA Group provided an update on the Regional Safety Action Plan. Program updates included progress on the OPM Parcel/CAMA Grant, the CPRG Comprehensive Action Plan, and the PROTECT sub-recipient funding for resilience planning. The Director's report covered animal control facility and service issues, transit district repair funding, regional town administrator support, and recent legislative updates concerning housing and stormwater management. Additionally, the Council approved STIP actions and addressed concerns regarding bridge maintenance and the management of FOIA requests.

The council discussed proposed state legislation concerning housing and zoning, regional fire and EMS services, education funding, and public records access. A presentation was provided on regional IT shared services, focusing on cybersecurity as a priority. Staff reports covered the status of the Plan of Conservation and Development, animal control facility planning, transit district roof repairs, and regional grant opportunities. The meeting concluded with actions taken on STIP amendments, regional referrals, and a resolution for a regional tax assessment and collection grant.

The council held a special meeting to conduct the election of the Executive Committee for the upcoming year. The new leadership positions filled included Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and Member at large.

The meeting included a presentation from the Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Transportation regarding infrastructure investment and funding challenges, as well as discussions on roadway safety and project coordination. The Superintendent of Schools for Putnam addressed inequities in the state school funding formula and advocated for rural equity adjustments. Other key topics included public health preparedness updates, project updates such as the Streets for All Plan, and administrative reports on animal control costs and legislative issues. Action items included the approval of STIP amendments, a text amendment for home occupation regulations, the authorization to acquire land for a new Regional Animal Control Facility in Pomfret, and several resolutions related to assessment projects and grant applications.