Village of New Berlin

The board discussed personnel management and oversight for EMS hiring and disciplinary matters. Key project approvals included the selection of a playground vendor and the authorization of expenditures for new fencing, playground structures, and site amenities, funded by the Chobani Legacy Grant. Specific fencing adjustments were approved to include a wider gate for maintenance access. Additionally, the board reviewed the status of the remaining grant funds, which are earmarked for future site improvements such as a bandstand upgrade, water fountain installation, and additional park seating.

The meeting included an extensive update on the Water Improvement Project, covering progress on water mains, easements, contract bidding schedules, well decommissioning, and various grant funding statuses. Departmental reports were provided for the Fire Department, EMS, DPW, Code Enforcement, and Clerk/Treasurer, noting specific operational issues such as equipment maintenance, grant applications, and village tax collection status. Committee reports addressed CD loan management, community events like the village yard sale and park revitalization, and building and grounds maintenance including painting projects and apartment repairs. New business involved authorizing the bid advertisement for a water infrastructure contract and discussions regarding the sale of a land parcel pending home rule authority.

The board discussed several operational and administrative updates, including organizational re-appointments, revisions to mileage reimbursement, and authorization for emergency check signing and attendance at conferences. Significant focus was placed on the ongoing water improvement project, including the status of easements, environmental reviews, funding coordination, and grant administration. Departmental reports were provided for the Fire Department, EMS, DPW, and Code Enforcement. Additionally, the board approved amendments to the ambulance service billing rates, rescinded a dual provider compensation policy, and approved various financial expenditures and insurance policies.

The board discussed and approved a non-binding resolution requesting state legislative action to facilitate the sale of a 7.6-acre parcel of village-owned property to Good Shepherd Communities for a new nursing home and rehabilitation facility, with partial funding allocated to the 2026 Hyde Park Revitalization Project. Additionally, the board reviewed and approved the annual insurance proposal for first response services, which included a four-percent rate increase.

Key discussions included public concerns regarding the need for a local warming center, potential coordination with the school district and Norwich's facility, and developing a transport plan. The Board discussed a proposed village 'crawl' event to support local businesses. Department reports covered Fire Department incidents, ongoing investigation into EMS missed calls due to staffing shortages, DPW updates on salt use and a damaged hydrant, and a noted need for snow removal sidewalk enforcement. Grant status updates detailed delays in CDBG funds reimbursement due to interagency review requirements and progress on ARPA reporting. The Water Improvement Project involved reviewing easement status, confirming a public informational meeting date, and addressing the water treatment plant contract and Well #3 scoping. Building and Grounds items included maintenance scheduling, addressing heating issues in a front apartment (with a proposal to waive March rent), and gathering fair market value estimates for land. New business included approving a resolution to exceed the property tax cap, approving the resignation of one EMT and the hiring of a new one, scheduling budget workshops, and approving election inspectors. The Board also approved payment vouchers totaling $178,552.69 and later approved the hiring of the Clerk-Treasurer, Brian Pinney, effective the date of the meeting.