NEWTOWN, CT — The Legislative Council on Wednesday approved more than $14 million in capital spending, including funding for school roof repairs, HVAC upgrades, and community facility improvements, during its regular meeting at the Municipal Center.
The meeting began at 7:30pm., according to minutes prepared by Clerk Arlene Miles.
Council members unanimously approved a series of resolutions authorizing bonds for town infrastructure projects outlined in the 2025–2030 Capital Improvement Plan.
Among the largest appropriations was $4.3 million for roof replacement at Newtown High School, $4.6 million for HVAC improvements at the Cyrenius H. Booth Library, and $1.5 million for HVAC upgrades to the Community Center pool.
Other capital projects included $1 million for a town bridge replacement program, $1.2 million for repairs at Head O’Meadow School and the middle school, $855,000 for renovations at Edmond Town Hall, and $300,000 for replacement of the Community Center pool deck.
In addition, the council approved special appropriations for several initiatives: $525,000 for a Community Center splash pad, $231,000 for waterfront improvements, $200,000 for open space preservation, $75,000 for Department of Public Works site engineering and salt storage, and $30,000 for Emergency Operations Center upgrade planning.
The meeting also featured updates on the 2025–26 budget. Finance Director Glenys Salas presented an overview of the Board of Finance’s approved budget. Board of Finance Chair Steve Goodridge, Vice Chair Jim Gaston, and member Barney Molloy explained recent budget changes, including the removal of projected revenue from the sale of 3 Main Street and a $900,000 reduction to the Board of Education budget.
Upcoming budget workshops are scheduled for March 26 and 31, and April 2 and 3.
The council also heard from representatives of Newtown Youth and Family Services, the town’s designated mental health agency and youth service bureau. Executive Director Candice Bohr said the nonprofit, which has received $8 million in federal funding since 2013, is facing a potential $300,000 operational deficit. If additional funding isn’t secured, the organization may need to restructure its service model.
Council members also received committee updates on curbside recycling options, including an upcoming Pay-As-You-Throw forum series, and were informed that 117 communications had been received in support of curbside recycling initiatives.
First Selectman Jeff Capeci introduced Emily Whitaker as the new Municipal Animal Control Officer and noted that a public survey on recycling and waste collection would close at the end of March. He also invited members of the public to attend a youth leadership event on Friday and a Sunday presentation by state legislators on housing policies.
No public comments were made during the meeting, which adjourned at 9:58 p.m.