Town of Waterford

The key discussions centered on application reviews and receipts for site plan and zone change requests. The commission heard an application for site plan review and approval for a new single-family home at 4 Ridgewood Avenue. Another significant agenda item involved site plan approval for a restaurant depot at 161 Waterford Parkway North, and a third for the Crystal Mall adaptive reuse project. A post-agenda item was received for a zone change request for a parcel at 140 Waterford Parkway South from IP1 to IMF. The primary focus was an application (PL-25-22) to add banquet hall use to the existing pickle ball clubhouse at 358-360 Mgo Point Way. The applicant confirmed no physical modifications to the structure or site were proposed, noting the use would be seasonal (closed in winter) and occupancy would be limited to 72 guests for special events, which would utilize third-party caterers as no commercial kitchen exists. Parking capacity was reviewed, confirming compliance with zoning regulations using existing on-site and off-site spaces controlled by the property owners, as well as nearby public parking areas.

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.