Samantha Charette

The meeting addressed financial matters, including the approval of monthly billings and financial statements for both the Police Department and the Police Commission. Key new business involved the approval of updated Private Duty Rates, including the establishment of a Longevity Private Duty Rate, and updates were provided regarding the Citizen's Academy, training events, and the police hiring process, including dispatcher positions. During Executive Session, the commission interviewed candidates and subsequently approved the promotion of Detective Dan Tessier to Police Sergeant and approved a conditional offer of employment for Mr. Omar Rodrigez as a Police Officer, contingent upon successful pre-employment requirements.

Key discussions included budget approvals for outstanding invoices, including payments for WHPL pavers, a custom sign, and mural plaques. The committee reviewed layout options for the Poet Laureate's poem print, agreeing to give the Poet Laureate final discretion. Discussions also covered potential collaboration between middle and high school music/drama programs, awaiting clarity from principals regarding Arts and Culture's facilitating role. Updates were provided on securing a bus shelter, which is currently in storage pending transport and installation. Progress on the Veterans Banner collaboration involved discussing cost-sharing agreements after the First Selectman offered to cover initial business sponsorship portions. The committee also reviewed progress on the BBES bottlecap mosaic, the Free Little Art Gallery design, and an upcoming Origami and Wellness Night. Future considerations included a watercolor class, graduation boards, a potential high school mural, an image collection call, and recreating the Broad Brook Library sign.

Key discussions during the meeting included the Treasurer's Report approval and a budget presentation scheduled for the town on February 25th. The commission received updates on Veterans assistance programs and planned for the Memorial Day parade, focusing on increasing participation from marching units and local businesses. Specific attention was given to checking cemeteries and flags, and addressing water and power needs at the Veterans Cemetery. Furthermore, the commission approved payment for the road race timing contract with Platt for the 2026 race, authorizing Peter Sanders to sign the contract. New business included the authorization to award two $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from East Windsor High School and the purchase of an American flag and pole for the Registrar of Voters' office, not to exceed $250.00. Improvement plans for the Memorial Green were deferred to the next agenda.

Key discussions included updates on the river status, noting ice chunks and melting, and the difficulty of conducting regular monthly water testing due to snow and cold temperatures. There was an update that Trolley Crossing has been plowed by the Town, and the Scantic River State Park trails show significant foot traffic. In new business, planning for a work party was discussed, and the Super Bowl hike was canceled due to severe weather. A demonstration was given regarding AI generation capability to produce images of possible replacements for Bridge #4 using dimensions. Correspondence included an email confirming the Board of Selectmen's Budget Workshop schedule and notification of a member's upcoming departure from the Commission due to a move out of town.

The meeting commenced with introductions and proceeded to address the approval of previous minutes, including corrections to the special meeting minutes of November 24, 2025, and the public hearing minutes of December 8th. Key discussion points involved reviewing charter sections 1 through 7. Specific attention was given to Section 1-4 regarding existing laws and ordinances, where the language concerning inconsistency with the charter needed further clarification from legal counsel. Section 2-1B concerning state elections and term of office was flagged for the attorney due to potential statutory conflicts regarding term lengths. Section 2-1C, addressing town elections and term of office, generated discussion regarding the validity of constable positions and the flexibility of setting referendum voting hours, leading to a motion for further review. Additionally, the possibility of modifying Section 2-3 regarding voting districts (currently two) to allow for one district by adding 'no more than' was discussed in response to a suggestion aimed at cost reduction.