Richard Sheldon

The board reviewed financial reports and authorized the payment of bills. Discussions focused on the usage of the Bantam Annex and the ongoing need to recruit new members for various boards. A significant portion of the meeting addressed community concerns regarding the new 'Welcome to Bantam' signs, covering topics such as design aesthetics, the use of ARPA funds, the lack of prior public input, and questions regarding necessary permits. Additionally, preliminary information was shared regarding the upcoming 2026 America 250 celebration and the planning for a Memorial Day parade.

The meeting included reports on the treasury and the payment of bills. Old business covered the potential reuse of the Bantam Annex and the recruitment of new members. New business involved discussions on signage, the official designation of the Arts District as a Cultural District, and upcoming community events such as the America 250 celebration and the Memorial Day Parade. The board also addressed concerns regarding late-night solicitors and licensing, requested updates on road sign removal related to bridge construction, and discussed the possibility of obtaining a small cities grant for sidewalk improvements.

The agenda for the upcoming meeting includes reports from the treasurer, discussion on old business items such as the Bantam Annex and membership needs, public input and correspondence, and new business matters.

Key discussions during the meeting included the future use and ongoing costs associated with the Bantam Annex building, with the possibility of further discussion next month. The Warden presented the newly designed Welcome to Bantam signs, which are slated for installation soon. The status of the speed signs remained under discussion regarding their placement timeline. Additionally, the board unanimously approved the 2026 Warden & Burgesses meeting schedule and authorized the purchase of 25 new flags.

The meeting included a discussion and unanimous approval of the Treasurer's Report and paying of the bills, noting a typo correction for Byrne & Byrne. Old business discussions covered the usage status for the Bantam Annex building, the planned installation of the 'Welcome to Bantam' signs pending weather, and the ongoing search for new board members, including contact information for interested parties. Public input addressed the recent painting of the Bantam Post Office, an upcoming State & Traffic Study presentation by the State of CT regarding Route 202 and Route 118, and the acknowledged need for sidewalk repair in Bantam, potentially requiring a committee and state grant application. The formation of the Bantam River Arts District was also mentioned.