NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Board of Finance reviewed several capital improvement plan requests Thursday during a Nov. 6 special meeting that focused on future funding needs for Edmond Town Hall, local fire departments and the Public Works Department.
The meeting opened at 7:30 p.m. with all members present except James Gaston. First Selectman Jeff Capeci, Finance Director Glenys Salas and one member of the public attending via video also participated.
The board approved minutes from its Oct. 30 meeting without changes.
Edmond Town Hall CIP Request
Board members discussed a proposed $1.7 million electrical upgrade planned for fiscal year 2028 at Edmond Town Hall. Officials noted that the project description indicated updated pricing would be provided to the Board of Finance, but members said no new figures have been submitted.
Fire Services CIP Request
The board also reviewed a fire department proposal to purchase two new engines within the five-year capital plan. Members discussed whether capital financing or bonding would be the better long-term funding approach.
Questions were also raised about planned renovations for the Dodgingtown Fire Company in year four of the capital plan.
Public Works CIP Request
During discussion of Public Works proposals, board member Barney Molloy questioned a request for bulletproofing at the Tax Office, suggesting a security assessment should be conducted before committing funds.
Capeci responded that the office has experienced an increasing number of concerning incidents, and Salas told the board the workspace requires additional hardening.
Board member John Fletcher also examined the division’s requests related to salt storage capacity and the purchase of several large trucks included in the plan.
Additional Follow-Up Requested
Board members agreed to ask representatives from Edmond Town Hall, the Board of Fire Commissioners and Public Works to attend the next meeting to provide clarification on their capital requests.
Items under Old Business — the Board of Education and Board of Selectmen capital plans — were not discussed.
With no public comments or announcements, the meeting adjourned at 8:47 p.m.
