Stephen Benoit

Key discussions included the review and acceptance of the January 22, 2014, and February 4, 2014, meeting minutes. In treasurer's report matters, the General Fund Budget Report looked fine, and the Miscellaneous Revolving Account was reviewed, noting that the Youth Basketball line item would be over budget due to hosting the annual tournament and a large custodial bill. The Commission instructed staff to request estimated custodial bills in advance and required punched time cards for future billing. In Old Business, funding approval for purchasing a vacant lot in the River Mill Complex was confirmed. Furthermore, an Eagle Scout's plan to install picnic tables, benches, and update paths at Duhamel Pond was approved, contingent upon obtaining three vendor price quotes. A meeting is scheduled with DEEP to resolve future use of Quaddick State Park. New Business involved researching discount ski passes for participants and investigating the feasibility of offering activities on school professional development days.

The meeting included treasurer reports indicating approximately $2,365.00 in the Commission's account. Updates were provided regarding the installation of a business street sign for Johnston and Associate's, and the current status of businesses in town, noting that United Recovery Systems LP dba ACB Recovery is operating locally, NewBotic Corporation is a new establishment, and Turning Pointe Dance Academy of Thompson has rebranded as The Movement Mill. Key new business discussions centered on the need for the Commission to decide on the Community Day event and the Business of the Year Award by the next meeting, which included discussion on purchasing a plaque for the award. Old business involved an ongoing item regarding information packets for new businesses and updates on the Thompson's Plan of Conservation and Development and the Thompson Business Association. There was also a discussion about potentially placing Business of the Year Award nomination forms on the town website. Correspondence included receiving the vote tally from the Marianapolis Sewer Project Grant Referendum.

Key discussions included correspondence regarding participation in Community Day, which did not generate interest for manning a booth. A presentation was given by Starr Road residents concerning an impacted area, and the committee decided against advocating for an additional parking area near the Tri-State marker. Event planning involved confirming sponsorship for the 2014 Turkey Trot and approving a 3-year contract with Race Wire for registration services. Trail updates covered bench cutting work by NEMBA on the USACE Orange Trail, painting blazes on the French River Trail, and ongoing work regarding river access/parking on French River Wilsonville Road. Regarding the Airline Trail, the committee noted DEEP's repair plans and the installation of new kiosks; a motion was passed to allocate funds for kiosk signs, including reimbursement for signs already created. Erosion was reported at Sunset Hill and under Route 100. The financial report indicated a current balance of $7668.13 for 2014 Trails.

Committee business focused on several initiatives. Regarding the CT DECD Community Investment Fund grant application, the committee discussed the recent unsuccessful attempt and plans to resubmit the application after meeting with the State Senator. For the 65 Main Street workshops, the next session is scheduled to focus on developing the "Farm-to-Fork" career pathway, and there is potential to seek USDA UAIP grant funding for future implementation, possibly supplemented by surplus planning grant funds for engineering. Renovation efforts are proceeding, including in-kind donations for foundation repair and potential funding applications for landscaping. For ongoing business, a contract extension was granted for the River Mill due to prevailing wage uncertainty. A pre-application was submitted to list 630 Riverside Dr as an "Investment Ready" property, and progress on the Blain Road Intersection involves planting the rain garden. The EDC Marketing campaign with DKA is moving forward, with a presentation scheduled for the EDC. Member comments addressed the forthcoming opening of a new brewery, the status of the St Joseph's School renovation, and the poor repair of the cemetery retaining wall. There was also discussion regarding the interview process for hiring a new Wetlands Officer/Conservation Agent.

The Board of Selectmen reviewed correspondence, including a report from the Northeast District Department of Health regarding the FY 2014 Budget, an update on the Building Department's new hours, and a notice regarding the term expiration of the Building Inspector. Discussions covered the library sprinkler system replacement, budget determination, and IT system analysis. A significant portion of the meeting involved citizen comments concerning a proposed blasting ordinance requested by concerned citizens due to structural and water well damage attributed to quarry blasting. The Board also heard a presentation from Connecticut State Police regarding Troop D operations and dispatch consolidation. Shawn Johnston from CL&P presented on power outage procedures and tree trimming efforts. Emergency Management presented on their mission and a special needs list for citizens. French River Materials representatives provided updates on blasting activities near Reardon Road, including hiring an independent survey company, GeoSonics. The Board approved the Historic Documents Preservation Grant, a UsePA Brownfield Assessment Grant Letter of Support for the Belding-Corticelli property, and several tax refunds. Finally, the Board discussed and approved updates to the "Agreement of the Parties Regarding Sewer Extension" contract and reviewed the Incident Analysis Report for a fatal fire.