Joseph P. Cleaveland

The commission conducted a site visit and field inspection regarding the property at 70 Beaver Dam Road and 47 Hammertown Road. The review focused on proposed stormwater improvements, which include the replacement of three culverts, the construction of a landscaping feature, and electrical utility work. Attendees observed the locations of wetlands, culverts, and the proposed landscape feature, with plans to report their findings at the next regular meeting.

The commission reviewed several applications for jurisdictional rulings and property improvements. Decisions included approving a swimming dock as an exempt project, approving repairs for a septic system and installation of a driveway, and tabling an application for stump removal. Discussions occurred regarding stormwater improvements and culvert replacements at two locations, a proposal for removing cattails along a lakeshore, and the ongoing review of construction plans for a garage and workshop. Additionally, the commission addressed a consent order related to unpermitted land clearing activities.

The Board discussed issues related to solid waste management and the Torrington Transfer Station, including the involvement of the Northwest Resource Recovery Authority. New business included the introduction of a new Resident Trooper, the scheduling of a future town meeting to discuss financial incentives for emergency services, the appointment of a representative to the Northwest Resource Recovery Authority, and the approval of tax refunds. Old business topics included an update on the Sustainable Materials Management Grant Program, the selection of WasteZero as a technical partner for waste reduction initiatives, and ongoing infrastructure projects such as tunnel construction at the Salisbury School and sidewalk connectivity improvements. Additionally, the Board addressed traffic concerns on Route 44, acknowledged a donation of trees, and fielded citizen inquiries regarding the use of the new electric vehicle charger.

The commission reviewed a recent event featuring a talk by Allen Cockerline, discussing logistics for future events such as poster placement, feedback mechanisms, and improving speaker setups. Planning for the upcoming Cool Talk Series included scheduling a speaker for October and coordinating a potential photo presentation on the landscape for the following year. Additionally, the commission finalized details for an upcoming educational trip to Great Mountain Forest and engaged in an extensive discussion regarding the LightsOutCT initiative, focusing on auditing local light pollution, developing recommendations for municipal action, and strategies for citizen education and institutional outreach.

The Commission held an executive session to interview prospective candidates for vacant positions. Following the interviews, a vote was conducted to appoint a new full member to fill a mid-term vacancy and an alternate member to fill a vacancy created by a previous election. Both recommended appointments were referred to the Board of Selectmen for confirmation.