Sarah Calos

The special meeting primarily focused on a presentation from Weston and Sampson regarding the design of athletic field improvements at Woodside Intermediate School. Discussions covered existing soil conditions, including topsoil depth, composition, and drainage concerns, comparing three proposed options for reconstruction. The Council and Board of Finance inquired about field usability after rain, maintenance requirements, long-term costs, and subsurface drainage chambers, which are designed to store runoff from up to a 50-year storm. Citizens raised concerns regarding potential residential flooding, field durability under increased use, and the need for further groundwater testing before construction. Alternative drainage approaches and the scope of work affecting adjacent fields were also discussed. The meeting concluded with an adjournment motion.

The meeting involved the nomination and acceptance of officers, with Gayle Ivy nominated as Chairperson and Maggie Schufer as Vice Chairperson. Key new business focused on the Back to School Program 2025, which aims to provide backpacks with supplies and gift cards to eligible families, with applications starting June 30. Standing reports provided updates on various areas, including a Suicide Prevention conference attendance, recognition of a senior for substance abuse awareness work, substance abuse awareness promotion at community events, and upcoming Narcan training. The Police Department report detailed ongoing SRO interviewing, D.A.R.E. program review, investigation of a dangerous TikTok challenge, and participation in the Travelers Championship and Special Olympics Torch Run. The School Report highlighted the completion of state testing (SBAC and NGSS), upcoming end-of-year activities for various grade levels, and sports updates, noting the Track and Field team is undefeated (2-0) and the Girls Softball team is undefeated (6-0).

The meeting included discussions regarding the 2026 YAB Poster Contest voting procedures and the request for board members to submit personal bios and photos for social media promotion to encourage new membership. An update was provided on the successful Lions Club Carnival outreach efforts. Standing reports covered school activities, including a PJ day fundraiser for Childhood Cancer, various successful club initiatives (Student Council food/toy drives, Robotics, Drama, World Language, Ski, Writing Clubs), and student-organized clothing drives. The Police Department reported on successful fundraising events, including pet photos with Santa and the first Shop with a Cop event. Updates from the Town Council noted the success of the Holiday Craft Fair and announced dates for the Cromwell Riverport Festival. The Prevention Council coordinated a highly successful motivational speaker session focused on mental health and substance use prevention, and hosted training sessions on QPR and De-Escalation. Youth Services reported on Internet Safety presentations, the success of the poster contest, the third anniversary of the Diaper Bank, and involvement in the Mayor's Tree Lighting. Youth Services also plans to solicit raffle prize donations for the upcoming Family Resource Expo.

The meeting included updates on the PV system, punch list, water damage in the media center, and the gym floor. The committee reviewed change orders, the reimbursement status to the town, the project budget, and invoices. There was discussion regarding additional services from Perkins Eastman for extended closeout support and the PV installation. The committee also addressed the cancellation of the meeting scheduled for December 17, 2025.

The commission discussed updates from the Director of Public Health, including the expansion of Cortiva Institute, streamlining vendor applications, public health notices, mosquito spraying, and vaccine clinics. The Council Liaison reported on budget referendum results, the dedication of the new field house at Pierson Park, a new Turkish market, delays in Popeye's construction, and potential town property acquisition. The Senior/Human Services Director welcomed a new commission member and discussed the Older American Month Celebration. Updates were provided on Human Services, including a food drive, Renters Rebate Program, and changes to Eversource's low-income programs. Senior Center out trips and Friendship Tours were also mentioned.