Marc Balestracci

The meeting focused on several operational and planning matters. Key discussions included updates on town dock repairs in relation to SHIPP grants and associated application deadlines. Correspondence reviewed problems caused by ice impacting pilings, moorings, and vessels in the Niantic River. In old business, progress was noted on submitting the amended Harbor Management Plan and maps to the Town Attorney for state approval review. The Commission also voted to approve the 2026 Mooring and Pulley pole applications and related permitting materials, forwarding them to the Town Clerk for website posting.

The meeting commenced with the Chairman announcing his intent to step down following this meeting due to an upcoming move out of state. Key discussions included suggestions to increase recreational shell fishing permit sales, a positive update on the Commission's budget request following budget meetings, and insights from the Annual Shellfish Gathering regarding online permit sales and color-coded permits. The Commission noted that recreational shell fishing areas remain administratively closed pending satisfactory water and meat sampling, with a tentative reopening date of April 1st. New business involved agreeing to purchase a storage container for demarcation signage at the Public Works yard and the appointment of new officers: Commissioner Porter as Chairman, Commissioner Jamroga as Vice Chairman, and Commissioner Darling as Treasurer. Additionally, the status of the lease agreement review by the Town Attorney was discussed.

The document outlines the agenda and supporting materials for an RTM meeting. Key discussion items and related correspondence include documents for the RTM Agenda and Backup, additional backup documentation, correspondence regarding the Energy Task Force, correspondence from the First Selectman, a report on the appointee for the Oswegatchie Fire Station, and ethics recommendations.

The regular meeting included discussions on public comment regarding an advertisement opportunity in the program booklet, which will be followed up on. Correspondence noted several thank you letters received for various services, and a motion was approved to donate an out-of-town beach sticker to the CT Town Clerks Association. Staff reports covered operational updates, including the planned installation of a playground pavilion, shed disposal approval in coordination with Little League South, warranty coverage for Leary courts, and the establishment of an Alternative Heating program in partnership with the State of CT for wood inventory. AEDs were installed at two parks, and personnel updates noted the posting of two Maintainer II positions, with one current employee departing soon. Program updates included upcoming events like Unified Night and the Neil Hoelck Basketball Tournament, progress on the Summer Concert Series, and discussions regarding field use agreements and overutilization, particularly at the middle school. Social media activity has increased significantly, and a new sports management intern will assist with youth programs. Committee reports were briefly noted, and the FY2027 proposed budget submittal was tentatively approved, pending review of supporting documents, with a special meeting scheduled for the final vote.

The meeting included reviewing the financial and collection reports for December 2025. Key discussions covered operational projects, including updates on Inflow and Infiltration Mitigation, the Old Norwich Road Pump Station Rehabilitation, and the progress of the SCADA System Upgrade Design/Build, which is anticipated to be completed by the end of February 2026. New business involved approving a proposal from EST for Continuous Flow Monitoring Services up to $50,000. Furthermore, the Commission voted to disband the Water Agreement Working Group, assigning the exploration of future water sources solely to the Utility Commission. Other topics included reviewing correspondence, noting the vacant Sewer Tech I position, and discussing the status of the Plastic Water Service Line Replacement Program.