Ashford public meetings in 2023

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for December 27, 2023, was cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 2, 2024.

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is holding a special meeting to review architect proposals. These proposals relate to a major rehab project and will be reviewed with a development consultant.

• Review of architect proposals for major rehab project

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will meet to approve the 2024-2025 Ashford School calendar and review priorities for capital requests. The meeting also includes a presentation on Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum and acceptance of recent budget reports.

• Approval of 2024-2025 Ashford School Calendar
• Review and prioritization of Capital Needs/Requests
• Acceptance of October and November Budget and Expense Reports
• Curriculum presentation regarding Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
• Distribution of December 2023 Policy Update Summary from Counsel

Town Meetings

The town will hold a virtual Special Town Meeting to fill a vacancy on the Ashford Board of Finance. The elected Alternate Member will serve until the next municipal election.

• Election of an Alternate Member to the Ashford Board of Finance

Conservation Commission

The regular meeting scheduled for December 18, 2023, was canceled. The chair stated there was no urgent business.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and appoint members to several town boards, including the Conservation Commission, Ashford Housing Authority, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Reappointments to the Conservation Commission
• Vacancies on the Ashford Housing Authority
• Vacancy on the Economic Development Commission
• Vacancies on the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission
• Vacancy on the Zoning Board of Appeals

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford School Roof Construction Committee will meet to review preliminary plans for the school's roof replacement. The committee will also address project timelines, responsibilities, and payments to Hibbard & Rosa.

• Review of preliminary roof replacement plans by Hibbard & Rosa
• Authorization of partial payment to Hibbard & Rosa for plan preparation
• Establishment of project timelines
• Establishment of project responsibilities

Zoning Board of Appeals

The December 13, 2023, meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals was cancelled. The agenda states there is no new business.

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will discuss updates on the Ashford Housing Development and the Moderate Rehab Project. The board is scheduled to choose a development consultant and review architect proposals.

• Selection of Development Consultant for Moderate Rehab Project
• Review of architect proposals for Moderate Rehab Project
• Update on Ashford Housing Development meeting from 11/28/23
• Discussion of reasonable accommodations
• Insurance Evaluation update

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for December 12, 2023, was cancelled.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and act upon a request from the Board of Finance. The proposal involves calling a Special Town Meeting to fill an Alternate seat on the Ashford Board of Finance until the next municipal election.

• Request to call a Special Town Meeting to fill a Board of Finance Alternate vacancy

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and discuss text amendments to Section 300-17 regarding Family Child Care and Group Child Care Homes. The body will also review a draft letter concerning the 2025 POCD revision.

• Public hearing on PZ-23-10: Text Amendments to Section 300-17 for Family Child Care and Group Child Care Homes
• PZ-23-11: Special Permit Renewal for Short Term Rental at 21 Lakeside Dr. (For Receipt Only)
• Draft letter regarding revision of POCD for 2025

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and act upon a request from the Board of Finance. The purpose of the requested Special Town Meeting is to fill an alternate seat on the Ashford Board of Finance until the next municipal election.

• Request to call a Special Town Meeting to fill an Alternate seat on the Board of Finance

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance will elect a Chairman and Clerk and discuss the 2024-2025 budget calendar. Members will also consider 2024 meeting dates and the process for filling board vacancies.

• Election of Board of Finance Chairman and Clerk
• Discussion and possible approval of 2024-2025 Budget Calendar
• Discussion and possible approval of 2024 meeting dates
• Discussion on process for filling full seat and alternate vacancies
• Discussion of a tri-board meeting between board of finance, education, and selectmen

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance is holding a special meeting to fill a vacancy for a regular member. The board will also consider a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen to call a Special Town Meeting to fill an alternate vacancy.

• Action to fill a regular member vacancy for the term 11/19/2019-11/18/2025
• Recommendation to call a Special Town Meeting to fill a Board of Finance Alternate vacancy for the term 11/16/2021-11/16/2027

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will meet to discuss facility updates and review recent policy updates provided by legal counsel. The agenda also includes training for a CABE Board Member.

• Reading of policy updates provided by counsel
• Facility update
• CABE Board Member Training

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Ashford Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission has cancelled its regularly scheduled meeting for December 5, 2023. The cancellation is due to a lack of new business.

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for December 4, 2023, was cancelled.

Commission on Aging

The scheduled meeting of the Commission on Aging for December 4, 2023, was cancelled. No decisions or discussions took place.

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town-Our Future Core Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) and updates to the IID Zone. The body will also review project updates and member recruitment.

• POCD and IID Zone updates from Planning and Zoning
• Ashford Citizen update via Ashfordctoutdoors.org
• Project updates
• New member recruitment

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda contains only standard procedural items such as reports from the secretary, treasurer, and library director, plus old and new business; no specific decisions, proposals, or dollar amounts are listed.

• Welcome new members
• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Library Director's Report
• Friends Update

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review several municipal appointments for various commissions and committees. The meeting also includes an update on the Ashford School roof replacement projects.

• Consideration of forming the 2024-2025 Capital Improvement Committee
• Reappointment of Board of Assessment Appeals alternates Rob Trotta and Nyaunu Wi Stevens
• Reappointments for Conservation Commission members and Stephanie Dubinsky as an alternate
• Reappointments for Our Town Our Future Core Committee members
• Ashford School Roof Replacement projects update

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss responses to Planning and Zoning Commission surveys. The body will also address member reappointments and the 2024 meeting schedule.

• POCD survey for PZC
• Response to PZC survey for IID zone
• 2024 meeting schedule
• Reappointment to Conservation Commission

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss various board and commission appointments, including several reappointments for the Conservation Commission and Board of Assessment Appeals. The meeting also includes an update on the Ashford School roof replacement projects and the ratification of the 2023-2026 AFSCME contract.

• Ratification of 2023-2026 AFSCME contract
• Ashford School Roof Replacement projects update
• Reappointment of Lynn Byberg as Ashford Assessor to 6/30/2025
• Consideration of formation of 2024-20CR Capital Improvement Committee
• Consideration of contracted KMH cleaning services

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance meeting scheduled for November 16, 2023, has been canceled.

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will elect new officers for the Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary positions. The meeting also includes a science curriculum presentation and a vote on the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Election of Board officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary)
• Science curriculum presentation
• Approval of the 2024 Board of Education meeting schedule
• Approval of meeting minutes from October 19 and November 2, 2023

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review several board and commission vacancies and consider ratifying the 2023-2026 AFSCME contract. The meeting also includes updates on the Ashford School roof replacement and interviews for a Transfer Station/DPW/Custodian position.

• Ratification of 2023-2026 AFSCME contract
• Ashford School Roof Replacement projects update
• Appointments for Conservation, Housing Authority, and Zoning boards
• Interview and appointment of Transfer Station/DPW/Custodian candidate
• Evaluation and review of Public Works Director position

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will review proposals for a development consultant regarding the Moderate Rehab Project. The board will also evaluate insurance and approve the 2024 meeting calendar.

• Review of proposals for Moderate Rehab Project development consultant
• Insurance evaluation
• Approval of 2024 Meeting Calendar

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will review financial reports and evaluate recent fall programs. Members will discuss budget requests for capital improvements and plan for the upcoming basketball season and Carol Sing event.

• Public hearing regarding Baseball/Softball Field Usage
• Budget request discussion for AMP Basketball Court Resurfacing
• Budget request discussion for cameras for AMP
• Review of Fall Program evaluations including Halloween Party, Turkey Trot, Gymnastics, and Start Smart Soccer
• Planning for Ashford Memorial Park fields and security

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet to elect officers and discuss the 2024 meeting calendar. The body will review potential survey questions for zoning regulation updates and a request for a 90-day extension for 285 Turnpike Rd.

• Request for 90-day extension for 285 Turnpike Rd (Owner/Applicant: M.Bond)
• Zoning Regulation Updates: Potential IID Survey questions
• Payment of $461.64 to The Chronicle
• Election of Officers
• Approval of 2024 Meeting Calendar

Zoning Board of Appeals

The November 8, 2023 meeting was cancelled because there was no new business.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is holding a special meeting to review old and new business. The body will discuss zoning changes for the Planning and Zoning Commission and a Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) survey.

• IID zoning changes for PZC
• POCD survey

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting for November 7, 2023, was cancelled due to a lack of new business.

Commission on Aging

The meeting agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The commission will review the Secretary's report and hear from the Agent for the Elderly.

• Approval of October 2, 2023 minutes

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town-Our Future Core Committee is meeting to review project updates and recruit new members. The body will discuss information from Planning and Zoning regarding POCD and IID zone updates and set a 2024 meeting schedule.

• POCD and IID Zone updates from P&Z
• 2024 meeting schedule
• New member recruitment
• Ashford Citizen Update

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review updates on the Ashford School roof replacement and ARPA accounts. The meeting includes discussions regarding various board and commission appointments and the ratification of the 2023-2026 AFSCME contract.

• Ratification of 2023-2026 AFSCME contract
• Appointments for Conservation Commission, Housing Authority, and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Ratification of Woodward Cemetery deed
• Appointment of Transfer Station/DPW/Custodian based on committee rankings
• Ashford School Roof Replacement projects update

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will meet on November 2, 2023, to discuss facility updates and bylaws. The board is also scheduled to review financial reports and consider a new staff appointment.

• Approval of staff appointment for Crystal Carvalho as Office Assistant
• Review of Annual Cafeteria Report and September Budget/Expenditure Report
• Approval of FY 23 Year End Budget Transfers
• Discussion regarding Facility and Capital Updates
• Approval of Board of Education Bylaw regarding construction and posting of the agenda

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance meeting scheduled for November 2, 2023, has been canceled.

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting. The board may enter an executive session to review the one-year performance of Library Director Ann Harper.

• Performance review of Library Director Ann Harper

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project and act on an architectural design services contract. The meeting also includes the ratification of the 2023-2026 AFSCME contract and several board appointments.

• Award of Ashford School Roof Replacement architectural design services contract
• Ratification of 2023-2026 AFSCME contract
• Discussion of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Appointments for Conservation Commission, Housing Authority, and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Appointment of municipal representative to Eastern Highlands Health District Board

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance will meet to review updates from the Selectmen and the town Assessor. The body will discuss the 2024 meeting calendar and year-end transfers required for the audit.

• Presentation by town Assessor Lynn Byberg
• Year end transfers needed for the audit
• Annual Report update
• Updating the 2024 meeting calendar

Economic Development Commission

The October 25, 2023 meeting of the Ashford Economic Development Commission was cancelled because not enough members were present. The agenda had listed discussion of 2023 strategic priorities including contacting active businesses, surveying them on support opportunities, and promoting ARPA grants.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum
• 2023 EDC Strategic Priorities: contacting active businesses, surveying on AEDC support opportunities, ARPA grant promotion and fulfillment

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will meet to review expenditures, discuss blighted properties and the Moore Property, plan marketing and tourism activities, promote ARPA grants to businesses with a December deadline, and consider a restaurant strategy. The agenda also includes updates to the EDC website and the Ashford Citizen, election of officers, and new member recruitment.

• ARPA grants to businesses – deadline December; production and mailing of materials; November assistance session
• Status letters to Selectmen on blighted properties (T. Wakeman) and Moore Property (R. Fenn)
• EDC marketing and communications: active business lists and tourism activity (Ignatowicz)
• Restaurant strategy discussion
• Election of officers and new member recruitment

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting to hear reports from the secretary, treasurer, and library director. They will also discuss updates on QuickBooks and audit follow-up, and set the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Treasurer's report
• Library Director's report
• Update on QuickBooks and audit follow-up
• 2024 meeting schedule

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project and review updates on Transfer Station upgrades. The meeting also includes several appointments to town boards and commissions, as well as a discussion regarding an early holiday closure.

• Consideration of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Appointments for Conservation Commission, Housing Authority, and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Action on a dairy farm/orchard abatement request
• Discussion regarding an early closing on November 22, 2023, for Thanksgiving
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades

Conservation Commission

The Ashford Conservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business including approval of minutes and the treasurer's report. The main items are discussing a POCD survey for the Planning and Zoning Commission and reviewing IID zoning changes, both under old and new business.

• POCD survey for PZC
• IID zoning changes for PZC

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will review a second reading of bylaw revisions regarding the construction and posting of agendas. The meeting also includes a report from the Cafeteria Committee and approval of financial reports.

• Second Reading: Bylaw Revision (Constructing and Posting of the Agenda)
• Approval of July and August Financial Reports
• Cafeteria Committee Report
• Review of Board of Education Committee Bylaws

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for October 16, 2023, was cancelled.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss year-end transfers for the audit, consider having town employees speak about their jobs, and update the board calendar for 2024.

• Year-end transfers for the audit, per Ms. Soucy, Treasurer
• Discussion about having town employees come in to speak about their job functions and duties
• Update Board of Finance Calendar for 2024

Zoning Board of Appeals

The October 11, 2023 regular meeting of the Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals has been cancelled due to no new business. The next scheduled meeting is November 8, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled; no new business

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss zoning regulation updates required by Public Act 23-142 and an IID moratorium. The agenda also includes a compliance status update for 154 Westford Hill and other routine business.

• Zoning regulation amendments pertaining to Public 23-142
• IID moratorium discussion
• 154 Westford Hill compliance status update

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss updates on fall programs, including Family Day, gymnastics, soccer, bus trips, and the after-school program. New business includes planning a Halloween party at Camp Connri, the Quiet Corner Challenge race, a Turkey Trot, and a Carol Sing/Tree Lighting. The commission will also consider resurfacing the basketball court at AMP and other park maintenance requests.

• Halloween Party on Saturday 10/28 at Camp Connri
• Quiet Corner Challenge 10/29/23 8:00 AM at AMP, sponsored by Last Mile Racing (10K)
• Turkey Trot on Sunday 11/12/23
• Carol Sing/Tree Lighting on Dec. 3, 4:30-7:00 PM
• Capital Improvements: Basketball Court at AMP resurfacing

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review funding options for the Ashford School roof project and consider several board and commission appointments. The meeting also includes updates on the transfer station, childcare programs, and ARPA small business assistance.

• Consideration of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Renewal of agreement with the Town of Bolton for building official services
• Review of draft documents for ARPA small business assistance
• Appointments for Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, and others
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is holding its monthly meeting to review the September financial and quarterly reports, receive the director's update, and discuss the Moderate Rehab Project. No new development is on the agenda. Public comments are limited to two minutes per person.

• Approval of September 12, 2023 minutes
• September financial report and quarterly financial report
• Moderate Rehab Project update
• Public access comments (2-minute limit)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss routine reports and consider a motion to approve the Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA). The agenda includes standard items such as the secretary’s, treasurer’s, and director’s reports, along with public comment and updates from the Friends group.

• Motion to approve the Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will review updates regarding facilities, capital, and the after-school care program. The meeting includes discussions on staff appointments and resignations, as well as executive sessions for medical orders and safety assessments.

• Approval of SY 23-24 School Medical Standing Orders
• Staff resignation: Pamela King, Office Assistant
• Staff appointment: Caitlyn Dimmock, Paraeducator
• Review of School Safety and Security Assessment

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The October 3, 2023 regularly scheduled meeting of the Ashford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission has been cancelled because there is no new business to discuss.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of new business

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting to discuss and potentially approve amended personnel policies and a policy regarding banned books. The board will also consider new rules on public use of library space, including time, manner, and space restrictions.

• Approval of amended Personnel Policies
• Policy regarding banned books
• New business: use of library space by public with time, manner, and space restrictions
• Future agenda items: collection policy and book challenges

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging will meet to approve June minutes, receive an agent's report, and discuss updates on previously mentioned fall programs. A new Spa Day program is also on the agenda for discussion. No votes or decisions are listed.

• Approve minutes of June 5, 2023 meeting
• Update on previously discussed fall programs
• Discussion of a proposed Spa Day program

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town-Our Future Core Committee is meeting to discuss old business including leadership updates and project updates, and to review potential questions for a Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) survey. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and public input.

• Review potential POCD survey questions
• Approval of minutes from September 18, 2023
• Leadership meeting update
• Ashford citizen update
• Project updates and new member recruitment

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project and review updates on the Transfer Station. The meeting also includes several board and commission appointment opportunities.

• Consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades
• Renewal of agreement for building official services
• Appointments for Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, and others
• Conservation Commission presentation regarding Zoom meeting interruptions

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission is meeting to discuss old business including draft letters to selectmen about blighted properties and the Moore Property, marketing efforts, potential ARPA grants to businesses, a restaurant strategy, and POCD input. They will also elect officers and recruit new members. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major votes or public hearings.

• Draft letters to Selectmen on blighted properties and Moore Property
• Potential ARPA grants to businesses - next steps
• Restaurant strategy discussion
• Election of officers
• New member recruitment

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will discuss and potentially approve amended personnel policies and a policy regarding banned books. They will also consider new policies on public use of library space and collection management.

• Approval of Personnel Policies as amended
• Policy regarding banned books
• Use of library space by public: time, manner and space restrictions
• Collection policy and book challenges

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for September 26, 2023, was cancelled.

Conservation Commission

The Ashford Conservation Commission is meeting via Zoom to handle routine business including minutes approval, treasurer's report, and correspondence. Under old business, members will discuss a senior housing talk and a POCD survey for the Planning and Zoning Commission. New business includes a Yale Forestry and Climate Change Series and addressing disruption at the last meeting. Public comments are also scheduled.

• Discussion of Senior Housing talk (item 7A)
• POCD survey for PZC (item 7B)
• Yale Forestry + Climate Change Series (item 8A)
• Disruption at last CC meeting (item 8B)
• Public comments (item 9)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance meeting scheduled for September 21, 2023, has been canceled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting canceled

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will review a curricular presentation regarding reading and consider updates to the 2023-24 school calendar. The meeting also includes discussions on staff resignation and a request for a leave of absence.

• Curricular presentation on Reading
• Proposed adjustment to the SY 23-24 School Calendar regarding Open House
• Staff resignation
• Request for approval of a leave of absence

Ashford Our Town Our Future

This is a special meeting of the Our Town-Our Future Core Committee. The agenda includes old business items such as a leadership meeting, citizen update, project updates, and new member recruitment, as well as new business and a discussion of the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD). The meeting is largely procedural with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Discussion of Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD)
• Project updates under old business
• New member recruitment
• Public input opportunity

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals regular meeting scheduled for September 13, 2023, has been cancelled with no new business to conduct. The next regular meeting is set for October 11, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled

Board of Selectmen

The Board will consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project and review updates on the Transfer Station. The meeting also includes several board and commission appointment decisions.

• Consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades
• Appointments for Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, and others
• Appointment of Michael Gardner as Deputy Emergency Management Director
• Proposed amendment to Ashford Citizens Policies and Procedures

The Board of Selectmen approved a tax refund for JP Morgan Chase Bank NA and ratified the 2023 Grand List Fire Department tax abatements. The board also appointed a Deputy Emergency Management Director and a representative to the Tolland County Mutual Aid Fire Service.

• Approved tax refund of $595.03 to JP Morgan Chase Bank NA (unanimous)
• Ratified appointment of Michael Gardner as Deputy Emergency Management Director (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Grand List AVFD tax abatement list, excluding Wayne Fletcher (unanimous)
• Appointed David Thibault as municipal representative to Tolland County Mutual Aid Fire Service (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting of 8/15/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Assessment Appeals

This is a procedural meeting with no specific agenda items listed beyond the regular meeting notice. The Board of Assessment Appeals is meeting as scheduled, but no decisions or discussions are detailed in the agenda.

The Board heard five motor vehicle assessment appeals and established the final values for each. The board also approved the minutes from the March 21, 2023, meeting and set the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Approved minutes from 3/21/2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjusted James Bartle Audi A4 value from 12,160 to 8,978
• Adjusted Robert M Devito Toyota Highlander value from 25,130 to 17,590
• Adjusted Barbara P Melady Honda Accord E value from 4,170 to 1,200
• Adjusted Agnieszka Szymczak Toyota Tundra D value from 9,750 to 3,339
• Adjusted Dylan Oleary Infiniti Q70 3.7 value from 11,780 to 7,175
• Set 2024 meeting dates for March 5 and September 17

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is holding its monthly meeting to review routine reports and discuss the Moderate Rehab Project, including submitted proposals for a Development Consultant. The board will also approve minutes and hear public comments.

• Review of RFPs for Development Consultant for Moderate Rehab Project
• Approval of minutes from August 8, 2023
• Director's report and August financial report
• Ashford Housing Development meeting recap

The board approved the August 8, 2023 meeting minutes with all members in favor. It also approved the August budget report unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved August minutes (all in favor)
• Approved August budget report (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town Our Future Core Committee meeting scheduled for September 11, 2023, has been cancelled. No business will be conducted.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission will hold a public hearing on a special permit application to establish a veterinary office at 46 Floeting Road. They will also review a draft affordable housing plan and discuss the Plan of Conservation and Development.

• Public hearing for special permit PZ-23-9: veterinary office at 46 Floeting Rd (Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary)
• Review of draft Affordable Housing Plan
• Discussion of next steps for 154 Westford Hill activity closure
• Discussion of Plan of Conservation and Development general revision

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a special permit for a veterinary office at 46 Floeting Rd. The commission may also decide on the application. Other business includes reviewing a draft affordable housing plan and discussing a plan of conservation and development.

• Public hearing on special permit PZ-23-9 for a veterinary office at 46 Floeting Rd (Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary)
• Possible decision on special permit PZ-23-9 for veterinary office
• Review of draft Affordable Housing Plan
• Request for 90-day extension to file mylar for 285 Turnpike Rd subdivision (M. Bond) and Lake Woods Lane subdivision (RCN Ashford)
• Discussion of Plan of Conservation and Development general revision

The Commission accepted a draft affordable housing plan with amendments to include town land restrictions. It also approved a special permit for a veterinary office and granted two subdivision filing extensions.

• Approved Affordable Housing Plan draft with amendment to include POCD land restriction data (Unanimous)
• Approved special permit for veterinary office at 46 Floeting Rd for Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary (Unanimous)
• Approved 90-day extension to file Mylar for 285 Turnpike Rd. Subdivision (Unanimous)
• Approved 90-day extension to file Mylar for Lake Woods Lane Subdivision (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 14, 2023 meeting (Passed with two abstentions)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will convene for a special meeting on September 8, 2023. The agenda is limited to an executive session to discuss a personnel matter.

• Executive session to discuss personnel matter

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss filling the Clerk's position, hear a presentation from the Parks and Recreation Director, and consider having town employees speak about their job functions. The meeting also includes public comments, approval of prior minutes, and setting the next agenda.

• Discussion on filling the Clerk's position
• Presentation by Sheryl York, Director of Parks and Recreation
• Discussion about having town employees speak about their job duties
• Selectmen’s update and Annual Report review

The Board of Finance appointed a temporary Clerk to serve until the November 2023 elections. The board also cancelled its September 21st meeting. Members received updates on ARPA projects, the After School program, and Parks & Recreation summer activities.

• Approved minutes of August 24, 2023 meeting
• Appointed Garth Bean as BOF Clerk for October 2023
• Cancelled the September 21st meeting

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will review the FY 23 year-end financial statement and authorize budget transfers for the fourth quarter. The board will also consider approving school medical standing orders and a custodial staff appointment.

• Review of FY 23 Year End Financial Statement
• Authorization of FY 23 Q4 and Year End Budget Transfers
• Approval of SY 23-24 School Medical Standing Orders
• Approval of Staff Appointment for Michael Zambo, Custodial/Maintenance

The Board of Education voted to use ESSER III/ARP grant funding to cover the costs of the After School Care Program for the 2023-2024 school year due to low enrollment. The board also approved a new custodial hire and tabled budget transfers and medical standing orders.

• Approved use of ESSER III/ARP funding for 2023-2024 After School Care Program (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Michael Zambo to custodial/maintenance position (Unanimous)
• Tabled FY 23 Q4 and Year End Budget Transfers (Unanimous)
• Tabled SY 23-24 School Medical Standing Orders (Unanimous)

Town Meetings

The Ashford Selectmen are holding a public hearing and special town meeting to discuss and vote on allocating $188,370 in American Rescue Plan funds for seven projects, including senior center upgrades, fire department equipment, and affordable housing. They will also consider revising the tax abatement ordinance for dairy farms and orchards to extend the abatement period to ten years if a renewal application is filed. Each funding item will be voted on separately.

• Up to $70,000 for split-unit installation at Ashford Senior Center
• $40,000 for 8 sets of bunker gear for Ashford Volunteer Fire Department
• $21,000 to Ashford Housing Authority for affordable housing programs
• Revision to tax abatement ordinance extending abatement from 5 to 10 years with renewal
• $20,000 for ADA-accessible front doors at Knowlton Memorial Hall

The town unanimously approved several expenditures using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for infrastructure, emergency equipment, and housing. The meeting also included an informational hearing regarding a proposed revision to the tax abatement ordinance for dairy farms, orchards, and vineyards.

• Approved up to $70,000 for split-units at Ashford Senior Center (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $12,370 for lost pay and benefits settlement (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $20,000 for KMH ADA front door access (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $10,000 for KMH roof gutters (Unanimous)
• Approved $21,000 for Ashford Housing Authority fundraising and programs (Unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 for 6 AVFD automatic defibrillators and supplies (Unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 for 8 sets of AVFD PPE bunker gear (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

This meeting has no agenda available; it is purely procedural with no items for decision or discussion. Residents are directed to review the minutes for any prior actions.

The town approved several expenditures using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for senior center upgrades, emergency equipment, and housing initiatives. All motions passed unanimously. No action was taken on the proposed revision to the dairy farm and orchard tax abatement ordinance.

• Approved up to $70,000 for split-unit installation at Ashford Senior Center (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $12,370 for lost pay and benefits settlement (Unanimous)
• Approved up to $20,000 for KMH ADA front door access (Unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 for KMH roof gutters (Unanimous)
• Approved $21,000 for Ashford Housing Authority fundraising and programs (Unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 for 6 AVFD automatic defibrillators and supplies (Unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 for 8 sets of AVFD PPE bunker gear (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for September 5, 2023, was cancelled.

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Ashford Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission for September 5, 2023 has been cancelled due to lack of new business. No items were discussed or decided.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider moving forward with the next phase of a solar proposal for Ashford School and review funding options for a school roof project. The meeting also includes discussions on transfer station upgrades and several board appointment vacancies.

• Decision on Ashford School Solar Proposal design professional services RFQ
• Consideration of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Award of CDBG Small Cities Program application preparation RFP
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning boards
• Review of available veterans exemptions by the Ashford Assessor

The Board of Selectmen approved moving forward with the Ashford School Solar Proposal and awarded a CDBG program contract to Community Consulting. The board also approved several tax refunds and an amendment to the Ashford Citizens Policies and Procedures guidelines.

• Approved moving forward with the next phase of the Ashford School Solar Proposal agreement with MHR and RFQ for design professional services (Unanimous)
• Approved adding three non-profit organizations to the Ashford Citizens Policies and Procedures acceptance list (Unanimous)
• Approved tax refunds for Marion Buteau ($102.25 and $16.23), Stephen Richter ($362.54), Eleanor or David Davis ($10.00), Robin Clapp ($45.94), and Piller USA, Inc. ($70.00) (Unanimous)
• Awarded CDBG Small Cities Program Application Preparation and Program Administration RFP to Community Consulting (Unanimous)
• Approved request for subordination of Housing Rehabilitation lien 2003-04 (Unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of Regular Meeting of 8/15/2023 (2-0, 1 abstention)

Conservation Commission

The Ashford Conservation Commission is meeting via Zoom to discuss a multi-use trail proposal for the Cadlerock Property, presented by Ginger Jenne. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and treasurer's report, member reports, old business on Farmers Market and Pollinator Pathway expenses, and new business on senior housing and a POCD survey.

• Cadlerock Multi-Use Trail Proposal presentation and discussion
• Farmers Market expenses review
• Pollinator Pathway expenses review
• Senior Housing talk scheduled for 9-12-23
• POCD Survey discussion

The Commission heard a presentation regarding a proposed multi-use trail network for the Cadlerock property. No formal votes were recorded for the proposal or the approval of previous minutes.

• Approved Treasurer’s Report ($115.93 for pollinators pathways and $76.15 for safety cones)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss town employee job functions, hear a presentation from the Parks and Recreation director, and consider filling the chairmen's position. The board will also approve minutes from three prior meetings and receive a selectmen's update.

• Presentation by Sheryl York, Director of Parks and Recreation
• Discussion about having town employees speak about their job functions and duties
• Discussion on filling the Chairmen's position
• Invite the Assessor to share job functions at the September 21 meeting
• Approve minutes from July 13, August 10, and August 15, 2023 meetings

The Board of Finance appointed a new Chairman to serve until the November town elections. The board also approved minutes from three previous meetings. Other items, including the selection of a BOF Clerk, were postponed to the next meeting.

• Appointed John Kopec as BOF Chairman until November town elections (Unanimous)
• Approved July 13, 2023 regular meeting minutes (Passed with 2 abstentions)
• Approved August 10, 2023 regular meeting minutes as corrected (Passed with 2 abstentions)
• Approved August 15, 2023 special meeting minutes as corrected (Passed with 1 abstention)
• Tabled selection of BOF Clerk to the next meeting

Economic Development Commission

The August 23, 2023 meeting of the Ashford Economic Development Commission is cancelled. The agenda lists planned strategic priorities for the year, including identifying and contacting active businesses, surveying them on AEDC support opportunities, and promoting ARPA grant applications, but no decisions or discussions will occur at this cancelled meeting.

• Meeting cancelled
• Planned priorities: identifying and contacting active businesses
• Surveying businesses on AEDC support opportunities
• ARPA grant application promotion and fulfillment

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will review draft letters to selectmen on blighted properties and the Moore Property, discuss ARPA grant opportunities for businesses, and continue work on business outreach and marketing. The meeting also includes approval of April minutes, a budget report, and updates on tourism and the EDC website.

• Draft letters to Selectmen on blighted properties (T. Wakeman) and Moore Property (R. Fenn)
• Potential ARPA Grants to businesses – next steps
• EDC website and Ashford Citizen updates
• Active business lists and tourism activity (Ignatowicz)
• Restaurant strategy and POCD-EDC input

The meeting scheduled for August 23, 2023, was cancelled. No decisions were made.

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees meeting includes reports from the Secretary and Treasurer. The agenda also features a report from the Library Director regarding FCC CIPA directives.

• FCC CIPA Directives
• Secretary’s Report
• Treasurer’s Report
• Friends Update

The Board approved the minutes from the June 27, 2023 meeting and the Treasurer's Report. The Director provided updates on internet filters, upcoming audits, and new staffing. No new business was decided during the meeting.

• Approved June 27, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved Treasurer's Report

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board will hold a work session for annual strategic planning, including curriculum updates and capital plan priorities. A subsequent special meeting will address staff appointments, bus decommissioning, and a superintendent evaluation.

• Staff appointments for Meaghan Sulham (Grade 5) and Karlos Aponte (Custodial/Maintenance)
• Decommission of school buses from fleet service
• Review of FY 24 capital plan priorities
• School security audit report review in executive session
• Superintendent evaluation in executive session

The Board of Education reviewed agenda items in a work session format with district and school administration. No substantive votes were taken on agenda items, and two topics were deferred to a future meeting.

• Deferred Board Self-Evaluation to a future meeting
• Deferred School Security Audit Report to a future meeting

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and act on finalizing a draft legal notice. The meeting also includes setting a date for a Special Town Meeting to approve ARPA allocations.

• Finalizing a draft legal notice for a Special Town Meeting
• Setting a date for a Special Town Meeting regarding ARPA allocations

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education meeting scheduled for August 17, 2023, has been cancelled.

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance will receive an update regarding the Ashford After-School Program. The board may take action on this item if required.

• Ashford After-School Program update and potential action

The Board of Finance authorized the creation of a dedicated activity fund for the Ashford After School Child Care Program. The Board also approved temporary town funding to start the program, not to exceed $3,000.

• Authorized Board of Selectmen and Town Treasurer to establish Ashford After School Child Care Program activity fund (Unanimous)
• Authorized Board of Selectmen to temporarily fund the program activity fund with town funds not to exceed $3,000 (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider scheduling a Special Town Meeting for several items, including tax abatement revisions and childcare program funding. The board will also address various vacancies on local commissions and committees.

• Scheduling a Special Town Meeting for dairy farm and orchard tax abatement revisions
• Discussion of start-up funding for the Ashford after school childcare program
• Consideration of additional ARPA funding allocations
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning boards
• Review of funding options for the Ashford School roof project

The Board approved the hiring of three part-time staff for the after school childcare program and endorsed a $25,000 request for school repaving. They also reinstated the Ashford Citizen Editor stipend and scheduled a Special Town Meeting to address ARPA funding and dairy farm tax abatements.

• Endorsed recommendation to Board of Finance to allocate up to $25,000 for Ashford School repaving (unanimous)
• Hired Sara Wilson, Caitlyn Dimmock, and Marilyn Percy for the After School Childcare Program as part-time employees without benefits (unanimous)
• Approved Ashford Citizen Policies & Procedures dated August 15, 2023 (unanimous)
• Reinstated Ashford Citizen Editor stipend of $5,200 retroactive to 5/1/2023 (unanimous)
• Scheduled Special Town Meeting for ARPA funding ($188,370) and Dairy Farm and Orchard tax abatement revisions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 7/17/2023 Special Meeting and 7/17/2023 and 7/25/2023 Regular Meetings (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks & Recreation Commission will review summer program data, including camps and concerts, and discuss the upcoming fall calendar. New business includes a camp-out event, the after-school program, and capital improvement proposals for additional ARPA funding.

• Review of summer programs: Bike Camp, Music Camp, Summer Camp, Gymnastics Camp, Swim Lessons, Concerts, BBQ, Pint Size Picasso Painting Camp, Pickleball
• Camp-out scheduled Friday 8/18 to Saturday 8/19
• Discussion of Ashford After School Program
• Review of Fall Calendar and upcoming program offerings, special events, and bus trips
• Capital improvements projects and proposals for more ARPA funding

The Commission unanimously approved the July 2023 meeting minutes following a spelling correction. The board reviewed financial reports for July programs and discussed the need for a new swim lesson location and bike camp instructor.

• Approved July 2023 meeting minutes with correction (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on August 14, 2023, to discuss a special permit application for a veterinary office at 46 Floeting Road, review correspondence on affordable housing and the Cadlerock Property, and receive a zoning officer report.

• Public hearing on a special permit application (PZ-23-8) for a veterinary office at 46 Floeting Road
• Discussion of a survey request from the Center for Housing Equity and Opportunity
• Status update on 154 Westford Hill Road (Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary)
• Discussion of the future use of Cadlerock Property and an affordable housing plan draft
• Approval of minutes from July 10, 2023

The commission accepted a special permit application to establish a veterinary office at 46 Floeting Rd. Members also reviewed a draft Affordable Housing Plan and discussed the general revision planning for the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD).

• Approved minutes from July 10, 2023 (Passed with one abstention)
• Accepted special permit application PZ-23-8 for veterinary office at 46 Floeting Rd. (Unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss several informational items, including having town employees speak about their job functions, inviting the Assessor to share her duties, an update on the Ashford After-School Program, and filling the Chairman's position. No votes on budgets or spending are listed on this agenda.

• Approve minutes of July 13, 2023 regular meeting
• Discussion on town employees presenting job functions and duties
• Invite Assessor to share job functions
• Ashford After-School Program update
• Discussion on filling the Chairman's position

The meeting was adjourned shortly after call to order because there were not enough members present to establish a quorum. No substantive business was conducted.

• Adjourned August 10, 2023 regular meeting due to lack of quorum (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss several town projects, including funding for an after school childcare program and the Ashford School roof project. The board will also consider scheduling a Special Town Meeting to approve ordinance revisions and ARPA funding allocations.

• Discussion of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Review of ARPA funded appropriation request from Ashford Housing Authority
• Potential Special Town Meeting for Dairy Farm and Orchard tax abatement revisions
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning boards
• Discussion regarding AFSCME contract

The Board of Selectmen approved three tax refunds totaling $1,415.59. The board also received a recommendation for a $20,000 ARPA appropriation for the Tremko House and discussed scheduling a Special Town Meeting for various funding and ordinance items.

• Approved tax refund to Jesse Thibault for $60.06
• Approved tax refund to Jesse Thibault for $555.72
• Approved tax refund to Jesse Thibault for $799.81

Agriculture Commission

The Ashford Agriculture Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss unfinished business, including tax abatements submitted to the Board of Selectmen, and new business, such as a public outreach event at Westford Hill Distillers. The chairman will also brief the commission on the upcoming Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) revision. The agenda is largely procedural, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Tax abatements as submitted to the Board of Selectmen
• Public outreach event to be hosted at Westford Hill Distillers
• Upcoming POCD revision briefing

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance meeting scheduled for July 27, 2023, has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider several items including funding options for the Ashford School roof project and a request from Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. regarding log harvesting. The meeting also includes discussions on AFSCME contract negotiations and potential tax abatement revisions.

• Consideration of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Request from Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. to access 38 acres via Cadlerock property for log harvest
• Discussion on AFSCME contract
• Request to call a Special Town Meeting regarding Dairy Farm and Orchard tax abatement ordinances
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning boards

The Board of Selectmen approved a request for Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. to access a 38-acre parcel via town-owned property. The board also approved the subordination of a housing rehabilitation lien. A request to revise the Dairy Farm and Orchard tax abatement ordinance will be added to the next Special Town Meeting agenda.

• Approved access for Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. to cross town-owned Cadlerock property for log harvest (Unanimous)
• Approved subordination of Housing Rehabilitation lien 2012-05 (Unanimous)
• Decided to include Dairy Farm and Orchard tax abatement ordinance revisions on the next Special Town Meeting agenda

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to meet with representatives from Ashford School. The discussion or action will focus on after school childcare policies and procedures.

• Discussion regarding after school childcare policies and procedures

Board of Education (ABOE)

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Ashford Board of Education for July 20, 2023, was cancelled.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss funding and RFP issuance for the Ashford School roof project. The meeting also includes a request from Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. regarding log harvesting access through town-owned land.

• RFP issuance for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project
• Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. request to access 38 acre parcel via Cadlerock property for log harvest
• Ashford Housing Authority request for ARPA funded appropriation
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning boards
• Review of cemetery statutes regarding gravestone ownership

The Board of Selectmen established a $100 weekly rate and a lottery-based application process for the after school childcare program. Members also agreed to conduct site walks regarding a land access request from Ace Equipment Sales, Inc.

• Approved minutes of Special Meeting 7/10/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting 7/11/2023 (unanimous)
• Set after school childcare weekly rate at $100
• Established online application process for childcare starting 8/2/2023
• Adopted lottery format for childcare program participants
• Determined childcare salary rates: $25/hr lead, $22/hr assistant, $18-$20/hr helper
• Scheduled site walk for Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. land access request

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to meet with representatives from Ashford School. The discussion or action will focus on after school childcare policies and procedures.

• Discussion regarding after school childcare policies and procedures

The Board of Selectmen held a special meeting to continue discussions regarding the implementation, policies, and procedures of after-school childcare. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and hearing public comments. They will discuss having town employees speak about their job functions and invite Ms. Soucy to present her revolving account idea. The agenda is mostly procedural with these two discussion items.

• Discussion about town employees presenting their job functions and duties
• Invitation for Ms. Soucy to present her revolving account idea
• Approve minutes of June 22, 2023 regular meeting
• Selectmen's update and annual report discussion

The Board approved the minutes from the June 22, 2023, meeting. Members received updates on the new DPW Director, the Ashford After-School Program, and the status of annual reports.

• Approved minutes of the June 22, 2023 regular meeting (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options and an RFP for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project. The meeting also includes discussions on the AFSCME contract, transfer station upgrades, and land access requests.

• RFP for architectural services regarding the Ashford School roof project
• Funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. request to access 38-acre parcel via Cadlerock property for log harvest
• AFSCME contract discussion
• Board and Commission appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning

The Board of Selectmen granted permission for the 40th Nipmuck Trail Marathon to take place on October 1, 2023. Other business included updates on the Ashford School fuel oil tank excavation and the school roof project RFP. No decisions were reached regarding land access for Ace Equipment Sales, Inc.

• Approved holding of 40th Nipmuck Trail Marathon on October 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting of 7/3/2023 (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on July 10, 2023, at 7pm via Zoom. The agenda includes public hearings and new business items, notably two text amendment applications: one to define the term 'Primary Residence' and another to establish a town-wide temporary moratorium on warehouses. The commission will also discuss a Plan of Conservation and Development process.

• Text Amendment Application: Article 300-14 to define 'Primary Residence'
• Text Amendment Application: Article 300-4 for a town-wide temporary moratorium on warehouses
• Public Hearing on unfinished business PZ-23-6
• New Business PZ-23-7 (applicant: C. Vidich) at 5 Town Hall Road
• Zoning Officer Report

The Commission approved a modified text amendment to establish a temporary moratorium on warehouses, distribution centers, and research facilities in the IID zone. The board also rescinded a previous approval for a text amendment regarding 'Primary Residence' definitions to further discuss short-term rentals.

• Approved modified wording for moratorium on warehouses, distribution centers, and research facilities in IID zone (5-4)
• Rescinded approval for PZ-23-7 text amendment to define 'Primary Residence' and moved it to unfinished business (unanimous)
• Approved June 12, 2023 meeting minutes (passed with 2 abstentions)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet with representatives from Ashford School. The meeting is intended to discuss and/or act on after school childcare policies and procedures.

• Discussion regarding after school childcare policies and procedures

Town and school representatives met to discuss policies and procedures for after school childcare. The meeting covered staffing, funding, and scheduling, but no formal decisions were recorded.

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The commission will consider seating alternates, approve April minutes, and discuss a beach relocation application by R & M Holdings, LLC at 21 Lakeside Drive.

• R & M Holdings, LLC 21 Lakeside Drive beach relocation

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options for the Ashford School roof project and review a recommendation regarding an RFP for architectural services. The meeting also includes discussions on the AFSCME contract, transfer station upgrades, and various board appointments.

• Review of RFP issuance for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project
• Discussion of funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Consideration of AFSCME contract
• Request from Ace Equipment Sales, Inc. for log harvest access through Cadlerock property
• Appointment of members to Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning boards

The Board appointed Casey McCue as interim Department of Public Works Director and approved a contract for zoning enforcement services. Other actions included approving a request for a winter Farmer's Market and issuing two small tax refunds.

• Appointed Casey McCue as interim DPW Director at $31.25 per hour (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Tyche Planning and Policy Group for zoning enforcement services (unanimous)
• Approved RFP for architectural services for Ashford School roof project pending Town Counsel review (unanimous)
• Approved Conservation Commission request for winter Farmer's Market at Knowlton Hall pending MOU (unanimous)
• Adopted revised Town of Ashford employment application (unanimous)
• Approved tax refunds for Skaye or Joseph Wilcox ($41.06) and Julie Marsh ($147.58) (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from Special Meeting 6/20/2023 and Regular Meeting 6/27/2023 (passed)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town-Our Future Core Committee meeting scheduled for July 3, 2023, has been cancelled. No business will be conducted at this meeting.

• Meeting cancellation notice for July 3, 2023

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review business lists, tourism activity, and website updates. Members are also discussing potential ARPA grant opportunities for local businesses.

• EDC Marketing and Communications review
• Potential ARPA Grants to businesses
• Election of officers
• New member recruitment

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting to review reports from the secretary, treasurer, and director. The board will also address support for summer programs and the library's summer meeting schedule.

• Support of summer programs
• Summer meeting schedule

Board of Selectmen

The Board will consider the Ashford School roof project, including RFP issuance and funding options. The meeting also includes several board and commission appointment actions and updates on town programs.

• Ashford School roof project: RFP for architectural services and funding options
• After school childcare program status update
• Transfer Station upgrades update
• AFSCME contract discussion
• Board and Commission appointments for Conservation, Aging, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning

The Board of Selectmen created a Public Works Consultant position and hired Joe Kalinowski at $40/hour. The board also reappointed members to the Commission on Aging and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission. No action was taken on ARPA funding requests from the Ashford Housing Authority.

• Created Public Works Consultant position on DPW roster (unanimous)
• Hired Joe Kalinowski as DPW Consultant at $40/hour, max 25 hours per week, effective 7/11/2023 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Esther Jagodzinski, Jane Martin, Catherine Sampson, and Charlene Armitage to Commission on Aging to 6/30/2025 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Robert Brisard, Richard Zulick, Cheryl Chase, and Michael Dietz to IWWC to 6/1/2027 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Elaine Corey-Zincavage as IWWC alternate member to 6/1/2027 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting of 6/13/2023 (unanimous)
• Tabled acceptance of Special Meeting minutes of 6/20/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education has called a special meeting to address personnel negotiations. The board anticipates entering an executive session and taking action regarding these matters.

• Personnel negotiations (Executive Session anticipated, Action anticipated)

The Board of Education held a special meeting to address the Superintendent's employment contract expiring June 30. Following an executive session, the board voted to authorize Chair Jane Urban to negotiate the contract for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

• Authorized Chair Jane Urban to negotiate Superintendent Cindy Ford's employment contract for the 23-24 fiscal year (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hold a hybrid meeting to approve minutes from June 8, 2023, and discuss new business including a Selectmen's update, the annual report, and a proposal for town employees to speak about their job duties. No votes on financial matters or specific dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion about having town employees speak about their job functions and duties
• Selectmen's update
• Annual report discussion
• Approval of minutes from June 8, 2023

The Board approved the minutes from the June 8, 2023, meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of updates from the First Selectman and discussions regarding future agenda items.

• Approved minutes of the June 8, 2023 regular meeting (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet for a special session to discuss or act on the appointment of a DPW Director. The agenda also includes an update on the status of the after school childcare program.

• DPW Director appointment discussion
• After school childcare program status update
• Establishment of policies for production, content, and advertising structure

The Board unanimously appointed Shannon Mercier as DPW Director and updated advertising rates for the Ashford Citizen. The Board also received a report on a planned partnership with the Board of Education for an after-school childcare program.

• Appointed Shannon Mercier as DPW Director effective 7/1/2023 with $65,000 salary (Unanimous)
• Approved new Ashford Citizen advertising rates: 1/2 page $60/mo, 1/4 page $30/mo, business card $20/mo effective 9/1/2023 (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for June 19, 2023, was cancelled.

Board of Selectmen

The committee will review its official charge and receive an update regarding transfer station permitting. No other specific actions or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of committee charge
• Transfer Station permitting update

The Transfer Station Committee detailed a new permitting system and the installation of a guard checkpoint funded by state 'Nip' bottle grants. A proposal for a full-time floating DPW employee to staff the booth will be submitted to the Board of Selectmen. The committee also noted a 3% contract price increase and a reduction in container size by Casella Waste Systems.

• Scheduled guard checkpoint station delivery for July 1 to July 15
• Established two-year permit system for residents starting August 1
• Determined guard checkpoint will be staffed during all operating hours
• Proposed addition of a full-time floating DPW employee to the Board of Selectmen

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will discuss facility and capital updates and a second reading of policies provided by counsel. An executive session is anticipated for the evaluation of the Superintendent.

• Facility and Capital Updates
• Second Reading of Policies Provided by Counsel
• Superintendent Evaluation (Executive Session)

The Board of Education approved the implementation of an afterschool care program at Ashford School in partnership with the Town. The board also approved updated policies provided by counsel and the superintendent's evaluation.

• Authorized Superintendent to implement afterschool care program with the Town (unanimous)
• Approved policy updates provided by counsel (unanimous)
• Approved the board's evaluation of the superintendent (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of 05/18/2023 and 06/01/2023 with one edit (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals regular meeting scheduled for June 14, 2023, has been cancelled due to no new business. The next meeting is set for July 12, 2023.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options and an RFP for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project. The meeting also includes an executive session to begin union negotiations and discussions regarding the after school childcare program.

• Executive Session to initiate union negotiations
• RFP for architectural services for Ashford School roof project
• Funding options for Ashford School roof project
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, ZBA, and Recreation commissions
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades

The Board of Selectmen appointed one member to the Recreation Commission. The board also held two executive sessions to initiate AFSCME union negotiations.

• Appointed Seven Galinat to the Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to initiate AFSCME union negotiations (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is meeting to approve minutes, receive a director's report, and review financial reports for April and May. The board will also discuss property insurance, a request for proposals for a development consultant, and an engagement letter from Maletta & Company. An update on the Ashford Housing Development from the May meeting is also on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes for April 11, 2023 and May 23, 2023
• Budget report: April & May financial report and quarterly report
• Update on Ashford Housing Development from May meeting
• Discussion of property insurance
• RFP for Development Consultant and Maletta & Company engagement letter

The commission approved the meeting minutes and budget reports for April and May. Staff reported a 76% increase in property and liability insurance premiums and the hiring of a new administrative assistant. A request for proposals (RFP) for a development consultant will be advertised with a deadline of July 17, 2023.

• Approved April 11 and May 23 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved April and May budget reports (All in favor)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks and Recreation Commission will review financial reports, discuss staffing updates, and address old business including swimming programs, the summer concert series, and summer camps. New business includes a Lions Club Scholarship Fund report, park maintenance at Pompey Hollow Park and Ashford Memorial Park, and a recommendation for a commission alternate appointment.

• Summer Concert Series lineup discussed with one opening on 8/8
• Bike Camp June 19-24 with 17 registered
• Gymnastics Camp June 26-30 seeking more participants
• Summer Camp registration open for July 17-21
• Steve Galinat recommended for appointment as alternate to APRC

The commission appointed Steve Galinat as an alternate member and approved hosting a BBQ for the Summer Concert Series on July 25. The board also corrected and approved the April 2023 meeting minutes.

• Appointed Steve Galinat as an alternate to the commission (unanimous)
• Approved hosting a BBQ on 7/25 for the Summer Concert Series at $10 for adults and $7 for kids 12 and under (unanimous)
• Approved corrected April 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings and decide on a town-wide temporary moratorium on warehouses, a text amendment to define 'Primary Residence', a special application for a rural business at 3 Lakeside Drive, and an application to reinstate an expired subdivision at Lake Woods Lane. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, public comments, and a zoning officer report.

• Town-wide temporary moratorium on warehouses (text amendment to Article 300-4)
• Text amendment to define 'Primary Residence' (Article 300-14)
• Special application for rural business at 3 Lakeside Drive
• Application to reinstate expired subdivision at Lake Woods Lane (PZ-23-2, applicant K. Mozeiko)
• Bill from The Chronicle for $751.95

The Commission approved a rural business application for a home-based practice and reinstated an expired subdivision at Lake Woods Lane. A proposed town-wide moratorium on warehouses and research facilities was tabled pending legal and zoning officer input.

• Approved rural business application for K. Mozeiko at 3 Lakeside Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved reinstatement of expired subdivision at Lake Woods Lane for RCN Ashford, stipulating no sales of 6 lots until a new public improvement bond is secured (Unanimous)
• Tabled decision on PZ-23-6 town-wide moratorium on warehouses, distribution centers, and research facilities (5-2)
• Approved May 8, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (Unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the minutes from the May 11 meeting and receiving updates from the Selectmen, on the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) grant, and on the annual report. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Approve minutes of May 11, 2023 regular meeting
• Selectmen's update
• ECS (Education Cost Sharing) update
• Annual report discussion

The Board approved the minutes from the May 11, 2023, regular meeting. Members discussed the status of the Annual Report and the timing of budget figures for future hearings. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved May 11, 2023 regular meeting minutes (Passed with one abstention)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Building Committee will review a report from the UST Project working group. The meeting includes discussions regarding playground restoration following UST installation and updates on solar energy next steps.

• UST Project working group report
• Discussion of playground restoration post-UST installation
• RFP for design professional services for roof
• Updates on MHR Solar next steps

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Ashford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission for June 6, 2023, has been cancelled because there is no new business to discuss.

• Meeting cancelled

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider funding options and an RFP for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project. The meeting also includes discussions on cemetery mowing contract extensions and various board appointments.

• RFP for architectural services regarding Ashford School roof project
• Funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Extension of Ashford cemetery mowing contract
• Reappointment of Town Treasurer to a term expiring 6/30/2025
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, and Zoning boards

The Board of Selectmen approved a three-year extension for the town cemetery mowing contract. They also reappointed the Town Treasurer and the Connecticut Veteran’s Fund Representative, and appointed a new Animal Control Officer.

• Approved three-year extension of Ashford cemetery mowing contract (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sherri Soucy as Town of Ashford Treasurer for a two-year term (unanimous)
• Reappointed Garry Brown as Connecticut Veteran’s Fund Representative (unanimous)
• Appointed Jennifer Miller as Animal Control Officer effective 7/1/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting of 5/23/2023 with corrections (passed)
• Added review of Director of Public Works applications and interviews to agenda (unanimous)
• Added Executive Session to discuss potential litigation to agenda (unanimous)

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging will meet to approve the minutes from May 1, 2023, and discuss old business including the Agent for the Elderly/COA picnic. No other substantive decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of May 1, 2023
• Agent for the Elderly Report
• Discussion of Agent for Elderly/COA picnic

The Commission on Aging approved the minutes from the May 1, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the transition from a grab-and-go food program to congregate meals and upcoming center activities.

• Approved May 1, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town-Our Future Core Committee meeting scheduled for June 5, 2023, was cancelled because a quorum was not reached. No business was conducted.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will discuss non-certified staff resignations and provide an update on facility and capital improvements.

• Joel Ocasio - Custodial/Maintenance resignation
• Donna Molnar - Paraeducator resignation

The Board of Education unanimously accepted the resignations of a maintenance staff member and a technology paraeducator. The meeting also included reports on the Illustrative Math program and school facility updates.

• Accepted resignations of Joel Ocasio (Maintenance) and Donna Molnar (Paraeducator) (Unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss budget expenditures, marketing and communications, the EDC website, potential ARPA grants to businesses, a restaurant strategy, and input on the Plan of Conservation and Development. The meeting also includes seating of alternates, approval of minutes, and officer elections.

• Discussion of potential ARPA grants to businesses
• Update on EDC website and Ashford Citizen articles
• Review of active business lists and tourism activity
• Restaurant strategy discussion
• Election of officers

The special meeting scheduled for May 31, 2023, was canceled due to a lack of quorum. No decisions were made.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to initiate union negotiations in executive session and consider funding for the Ashford School roof project. The agenda also includes discussions on cemetery mowing contract extensions and various board appointments.

• Initiation of union negotiations in Executive Session
• RFP for architectural services regarding Ashford School roof project
• Funding options for the Ashford School roof project
• Extension of Ashford cemetery mowing contract expiring 6/30/2023
• Appointments for Conservation, Economic Development, and Zoning boards

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance meeting scheduled for May 25, 2023, has been cancelled. No business was conducted.

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Building Committee will meet to discuss an RFP for design professional services. The committee will also consider payment requests and next-phase releases regarding MHR Solar.

• Discussion of RFP for Design Professional Services
• Action on payment request from MHR Solar
• Action on MHR Solar request for release to next project phase

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will review expenditures, discuss ARPA grant next steps for businesses, and work on marketing and communications including an active business list and website updates. They will also hear updates on the PZC regulations related to I-84 and other commission news.

• Potential ARPA grants to businesses – next steps
• EDC marketing and communications – active business lists and tourism activity
• EDC website and Ashford Citizen updates
• PZC regulations update regarding I-84
• Election of officers and new member recruitment

The meeting scheduled for May 24, 2023, was cancelled. No decisions were made.

Economic Development Commission

The May 24, 2023 meeting of the Ashford Economic Development Commission is cancelled. No business will be conducted.

• Meeting cancelled

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and potentially act on several items, including a recommendation to issue an RFP for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project and consider funding options for that project. They will also review a draft of policies for the Ashford Citizen newsletter, consider extending the cemetery mowing contract, and get an update on Transfer Station upgrades. The meeting begins with an executive session to initiate union negotiations.

• Act on Ashford School Building Committee recommendation regarding issuance of RFP for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project
• Consider funding options relating to initiation of Ashford School roof project
• Consider extension of Ashford cemetery mowing contract (current contract expires 6/30/2023)
• Review draft of establishment of policies and procedures for the Ashford Citizen as prepared by Silver-Smith
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades

The Board of Selectmen approved the minutes from the May 15, 2023, meeting. The board entered an executive session to discuss pending litigation and noted that union negotiations have been rescheduled for June 13, 2023.

• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting of 5/15/2023
• Entered Executive Session to discuss pending litigation

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will review board policies regarding participation in and support of library summer programs. The meeting also includes reports from the secretary, treasurer, and library director.

• Review of Board Policies for Library Summer Programs

The Board approved the minutes from April 25 and the Treasurer's Report from May 22. Revised Personnel Policies were established to take effect on July 1, 2023. The Director reported plans for a new fund questioning policy and updated personnel file storage.

• Approved April 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved May 22, 2023 Treasurer's Report
• Revised Personnel Policies set to become effective July 1, 2023

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is holding a special meeting to review and approve proposals for legal services. The agenda contains only this single substantive item along with roll call and adjournment.

• Review and approval of proposals for Legal Services

The Commission reviewed two proposals for legal services that met all RFP requirements. The board voted to appoint McGrath & McGrath, LLC as legal counsel for the Ashford Housing Authority.

• Approved proposal from McGrath & McGrath, LLC for legal counsel (All in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission meeting scheduled for May 22, 2023 was cancelled due to no urgent business. The next meeting is set for June 26, 2023.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting on May 9, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. at Town Hall. Agenda items include a status update on the proposed after-school childcare program, a discussion on renter's rights, and a discussion and/or action on Transfer Station upgrades. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Status update on after-school childcare program proposed by the Recreation Commission
• Discussion regarding renter's rights
• Discussion and/or action on Transfer Station upgrades

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will discuss facility updates and the Bicknell Scholarship. The agenda includes the appointment of two certified staff members and a first reading of updated policies.

• Appointment of Valerie Podolski (Music)
• Appointment of Erin Kirdzik (Special Education)
• First Reading of Policies – May 2023 Update
• Approval of April 2023 Financial Report
• Approval of Third Quarter Grants Report

The Board of Education approved the appointment of two certified staff members and passed a consent agenda including financial and grant reports. The board also reviewed proposed policy updates and held an executive session for the superintendent's evaluation.

• Approved appointment of Valerie Podolski (Music) and Erin Kirdzik (Special Education) to certified staff (Unanimous)
• Approved April 2023 Financial Report (Unanimous)
• Approved Third Quarter Grants Report (Unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from 04/20/2023 and 05/04/2023 (Unanimous)
• Entered executive session for superintendent evaluation; no action taken

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will consider a School Building Committee recommendation to issue an RFP for architectural services for the Ashford School roof project and discuss funding options. They will also review the status of a proposed after-school childcare program, consider extending the cemetery mowing contract, and discuss establishing policies for the Ashford Citizen publication. Updates on Transfer Station upgrades and tax refunds are also on the agenda.

• Act on Ashford School Building Committee recommendation for RFP for architectural services for Ashford School roof project
• Consider funding options for Ashford School roof project
• Consider extension of Ashford cemetery mowing contract (expires 6/30/2023)
• Establish policies and procedures for Ashford Citizen production and content
• Update on Transfer Station upgrades

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the meeting minutes from April 25, 2023, and May 9, 2023. No substantive decisions were made regarding the Ashford School roof project or the cemetery mowing contract, both of which were deferred to later dates.

• Approved minutes of 4/25/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 5/9/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will vote on setting the mill rate for real estate and personal property at 33.085 mills and the motor vehicle levy at 32.46 mills. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings and receive a Selectmen's update.

• Set mill rate for real estate and personal property at 33.085 mills
• Set mill rate for motor vehicle levy at 32.46 mills
• Approve minutes of regular meeting April 4, 2023
• Approve minutes of special meeting public hearing April 4, 2023
• Annual report discussion

The Board of Finance established the mill rates for real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles. It also formally approved several budget appropriations for the Board of Education, General Government, Capital Budget, and Region 19 School District for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

• Set Real Estate and Personal Property levy mill rate at 33.085 (Unanimous)
• Set Motor Vehicle levy mill rate at 32.46 (Unanimous)
• Approved $8,578,536 appropriation for Board of Education Budget (Unanimous)
• Approved $3,839,250 appropriation for General Government Budget (Unanimous)
• Approved $2,189,042 appropriation for Capital Budget (Unanimous)
• Approved $3,680,487 appropriation for Ashford's share of Region 19 School District Budget (Unanimous)
• Requested Board of Selectmen set dates for the Annual Town Budget (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the April 6, 2023 regular meeting (Unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals regular meeting scheduled for May 10, 2023, has been cancelled due to no new business. The next meeting is set for June 14, 2023.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen authorized the purchase of a new Guardian booth for the Transfer Station and approved a tax refund for one resident. The Board also approved funding for hardware and software for the Ashford Citizen.

• Approved purchase of 4’ x 6’ Guardian booth for Transfer Station not to exceed $12,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved tax refund to Nicholas Merisotis in the amount of $1,594.78 (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of hardware and software for Ashford Citizen not to exceed $2,000 (Unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will hold a hybrid monthly meeting to approve April minutes, receive the director's and budget reports, and discuss an update on the rehab project. The meeting is open to the public with limited comment time.

• Approval of minutes from April 11, 2023
• Director's monthly report
• Budget report including April financial and quarterly report
• Update on the Ashford Housing Development rehab project

The monthly meeting was cancelled because a quorum was not reached. No decisions were made.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks and Recreation Commission will review financial reports, discuss summer programs including swim lessons and camps, and receive updates on the Charlie Olbrias Road Race, park maintenance, and summer concert contracts.

• Town Budget Passed
• Charlie Olbrias Road Race scheduled for October 29
• Parks maintenance updates: mulch at AMP and PHP
• Summer concert contracts and food service organizations still to be finalized
• Summer programs: swim lessons, gymnastics, bike camp, music camp, and camp out at AMP

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a continued public hearing on a proposed town-wide temporary moratorium on warehouses and distribution centers, and a text amendment to definitions and interstate interchange development zone regulations. The commission may also decide on a special permit for reduction of a non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Road.

• Public hearing continued on temporary moratorium on warehouses and distribution centers
• Text amendment application for Article 300-14 (Definitions) and Article 300-19 (Interstate Interchange Development Zone)
• Special permit application for reduction of non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Road
• Review of definitions for 'Primary Residence' (receipt only, no discussion)
• Zoning officer report on 231 Ashford Center Rd, June Norcross Webster Scout Reservation, and Perry Heritage Center construction

The Commission denied a text amendment application for the Interstate Interchange Development Zone. It also approved a special permit for a non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Rd. with nine specific conditions.

• Approved special permit for reduction of non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Rd. (Ruby Realty LLC) with nine conditions (Passed with one abstention)
• Denied text amendment application PZ-23-1 for Article 300-14 and Article 300-19 (8-0 with one abstention)
• Approved April 10, 2023 regular meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved April 17, 2023 special meeting minutes (Passed with one abstention)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will review the April 2023 financial report and Quarter 3 grants report. The meeting also includes discussions regarding staff resignations and an anticipated executive session for Superintendent evaluation.

• Staff resignations: Katherine Roque (Music) and Jennifer Turner (Special Education)
• Approval of 2023-2024 Healthy Foods Certification
• Distribution of April 2023 Financial Report and Quarter 3 Grants Report
• Superintendent evaluation (anticipated Executive Session)

The Ashford Board of Education approved the 2023-2024 Healthy Foods Certification, ensuring all food sold to students during the school day meets state nutrition standards. A separate motion allowed sale of non-compliant beverages after school hours under specific conditions, passing 4-1-1. The board also accepted resignations of two staff members and selected Al Maccarone as graduation speaker.

• Approved 2023-2024 Healthy Foods Certification (unanimous)
• Approved after-school sale of non-compliant beverages with conditions (4-1-1)
• Accepted resignations of Katherine Roque and Jennifer Turner (unanimous)
• Selected Al Maccarone as graduation speaker

Board of Education (ABOE)

The committee will discuss relevant issues with Dennis Stanavage, if present. The meeting includes a review of the draft Request for Proposals (RFP) and other related documents.

• Review and discussion of draft RFP and other documents
• Discussion regarding project timeline

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Ashford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission's regularly scheduled meeting for May 2, 2023, at 7:00 pm in the Town Office Building has been cancelled due to lack of new business. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of new business

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town-Our Future Core Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear communications, and discuss old business including a spring leadership meeting, citizen updates, project updates, and new member recruitment. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the agenda is largely procedural.

• Approval of minutes from April 3, 2023
• Spring Leadership Meeting discussion
• Ashford Citizen Update
• Project Updates
• New Member Recruitment

The committee approved the minutes from the April 3, 2023 meeting. Members discussed potential educational fact sheets, EV charging stations, and the Walktober program. No other substantive votes were taken.

• Approved April 3, 2023 minutes (5-0)

Board of Selectmen

This meeting has been cancelled. No business was conducted or discussed.

Board of Finance

This Board of Finance meeting has been cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hear public comment, review minutes, and discuss several items including the status of a proposed after-school childcare program, a request to appoint a Chief Building Official, and the formation of a cemetery committee. No votes are guaranteed; some items may be carried over to future meetings.

• Status update on after-school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Revisit request to appoint Rich McKinnon as Chief Building Official
• Discussion on forming a cemetery committee
• Citizen administration review

The Board of Selectmen approved several personnel appointments and extended a technical services contract with Savage Systems. They also established an advisory cemetery committee and appointed a representative to the Eastern Regional Tourism Board.

• Appointed Rich McKinnon as Chief Building Official (unanimous)
• Appointed Colleen DePercio as Editor of the Ashford Citizen (unanimous)
• Formed advisory cemetery committee consisting of Cathryn Silver-Smith, Sherri Mutch, and James Reviczky (unanimous)
• Appointed Robert Ignatowicz to the Eastern Regional Tourism Board (unanimous)
• Extended technology service agreement with Savage Systems to 8/31/2027 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting from 4/17/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance meeting scheduled for April 20, 2023, has been cancelled. No decisions or discussions will take place.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss the status of an after-school childcare program proposed by the Recreation Commission and consider appointing Rich McKinnon as Chief Building Official. They will also act on a Woodward Cemetery deed and discuss Ashford Citizen administration.

• Status update on after-school childcare program proposed by the Recreation Commission
• Appointment of Rich McKinnon as Chief Building Official
• Approval of Woodward Cemetery deed

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the Woodward Cemetery deed. Other items, including the appointment of a Town Building Official and an after-school program, saw no action or remained under discussion.

• Approved Woodward Cemetery deed (unanimous)
• Approved April 3, 2023 meeting minutes
• No action taken on Town Building Official appointment

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a special meeting on April 17, 2023, via Zoom. The main business is three public hearings: a special permit to reduce a non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Rd, a short-term rental application at 7 Amidon Dr, and a 1-lot resubdivision at 285 Turnpike Rd. The commission may also make decisions on these applications under New Business. The agenda includes approval of minutes, public comments, and a bill payment of $230.56 to The Chronicle.

• Public hearing PZ-23-3: Special permit for reduction of non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Rd (Ruby Realty LLC)
• Public hearing PZ-23-4: Short-term rental application at 7 Amidon Dr (P. Marcue)
• Public hearing PZ-23-5: 1-lot resubdivision at 285 Turnpike Rd (M/K Bond, applicant A. Bushnell)
• Bill payment: The Chronicle $230.56
• Special meeting held online via Zoom; agenda cannot be amended

The commission voted to continue the public hearing for a special permit application at 54 Seckar Rd to a future meeting. A public hearing was also closed for a short-term rental application at 7 Amidon Dr, with no final decision recorded. The commission approved the minutes from the April 10, 2023 meeting.

• Approved April 10, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for PZ-23-3 (54 Seckar Rd) to May 8, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for PZ-23-4 (7 Amidon Dr short-term rental) (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting on April 14, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at the Ashford Town Offices. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the Ashford Citizen, followed by adjournment. No other substantive items are listed.

• Discussion regarding Ashford Citizen

The Board held general discussions regarding the goals, responsibilities, and operating procedures of the Ashford Citizen. No motions were made or voted upon. The Board will conduct future research regarding the continuation of the publication.

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will hold its monthly meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, a director's report, and a budget report. The main action item is a vote on a rent increase and approval of the FY 2024 budget. Public comments are limited to two minutes per person.

• Approval of minutes for March 14, 2023
• Director's report and monthly update
• March financial report
• Rent increase and FY 2024 budget approval
• Public access with two-minute comment limit

The Commission approved a 2.5% increase for all levels of base rent following a tenant meeting. The FY 2024 Management Plan and the March budget report were also approved. The board reviewed the March meeting minutes.

• Approved 2.5% base rent increase for all levels (All in favor)
• Approved FY 2024 Management Plan (All in favor)
• Approved March budget report (All in favor)
• Approved March 14, 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)

Library Board of Trustees

This special meeting of the Babcock Library Board of Trustees focuses on discussing new business regarding personnel policies. No other agenda items are listed for this session.

• Discussion of personnel policies

Board of Selectmen

This meeting has been cancelled. No business was conducted.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a continued public hearing on a text amendment to definitions and the Interstate Interchange Development Zone, and will also hear applications for short-term rentals and a subdivision. Several items are continued to a special meeting on April 17 without discussion. The commission may also decide on new business items.

• Public hearing continued on text amendment PZ-23-1 for Article 300-14 and 300-19 by Campanelli Rodolakis LM Acquisition LLC & Ashford Reality Trust LLC
• Short-term rental application PZ-22-9 at 88 Ashford Lake Drive by owner J. Pufahl
• Special permit PZ-23-3 for reduction of non-conforming use at 54 Seckar Rd by Ruby Realty LLC (continued to 4/17)
• Short-term rental application PZ-23-4 at 7 Amidon Dr by P. Marcue (continued to 4/17)
• 1-lot resubdivision PZ-23-5 at 285 Turnpike Rd by M/K Bond, applicant A. Bushnell (continued to 4/17)

The Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing regarding proposed text amendments for the Interstate Interchange Development (IID) zone. After hearing extensive public opposition and applicant testimony, the commission tabled the final decision on the application. Several other zoning applications and a definition review were also tabled.

• Approved March 13, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on IID zone text amendments (Unanimous)
• Tabled decision on PZ-23-1 IID zone text amendments to May 4, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Tabled PZ-22-9 short-term rental application to April 17, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Tabled PZ-23-3, PZ-23-4, and PZ-23-5 applications to April 17, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Tabled review of 'Primary Residence' definition to next meeting (Unanimous)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will discuss updates regarding facilities, capital improvements, and the FY 24 budget. The meeting includes reviews for a technology services contract extension and an application for a school security grant.

• Review and authorization of the extension of Technology Services Contract
• Authorization to apply for School Security Grant
• Approval of March 2023 Financial Report
• Updates on FY 24 Budget, facilities, and capital improvements

The provided document is a meeting agenda rather than minutes. It lists proposed topics including the FY 24 Budget and a school security grant, but records no actual decisions, votes, or outcomes.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear public budget feedback, consider amendments to its budget policies, and set a date for a public referendum on the budget. The meeting is hybrid, with in-person attendance at Town Offices and online via Zoom.

• Approve minutes of March 30, 2023 meeting
• Approve minutes of April 4, 2023 public hearing
• Budget feedback from public and changes from hearing
• Amendment of Board of Finance Budget Policies (pg. 2, paragraphs 5, 7, & 8) to correct dates
• Set date for public referendum on budget

The Board of Finance unanimously approved Ashford's share of the Region 19 School District budget for fiscal year 2023-2024. The board also approved the minutes from the March 30, 2023 meeting.

• Approved $3,680,487 appropriation for Region 19 School District budget (unanimous)
• Approved March 30, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is holding a special meeting and public hearing to discuss the 2023-2024 budget. The board will consider budget adjustments and make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen, as well as request dates for an annual town meeting or referendum. The meeting is virtual via Zoom.

• Public hearing on 2023-2024 budget
• Budget adjustments and recommendations to Board of Selectmen
• Request to Board of Selectmen for annual town meeting/referendum dates

Town Meetings

The Ashford Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance are holding a public hearing on the proposed 2023-2024 fiscal year budget. The total town budget is proposed at $11,961,578, with a mil rate increase from 32.265 to 33.08. The hearing is to gather public input before the budget is finalized.

• Proposed mil rate increase of 0.82 mils to 33.08
• Town budget total $11,961,578 (down 0.06% from current)
• School budget (Ashford BOE) $8,578,536 (up 2.89%)
• Region 19 share $3,680,487 (up $177,948)
• Capital improvements $2,189,042, funded by grants and CNR fund

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will consider a re-subdivision application from Michah & Kristen Bond at 285 Turnpike Road. The agenda also includes old business, an agent report, member comments, and adjournment.

• New business: Michah & Kristen Bond, 285 Turnpike Rd re-subdivision application

The Commission approved a request for the Wetland Agent to issue approval for a re-subdivision at 285 Turnpike Rd, noting no proposed activity within wetlands. The application was referred to the Planning & Zoning Commission. The board also discussed creating identification badges for members conducting site visits.

• Approved agent's approval for re-subdivision at 285 Turnpike Rd (5-0)
• Referred 285 Turnpike Rd application to Planning & Zoning Commission (5-0)
• Approved minutes from Feb. 7, 2023, and March 7, 2023 meetings (unanimous)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town Our Future Core Committee is holding a routine meeting with agenda items including approval of prior minutes, old business such as project updates and new member recruitment, and new business. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the agenda is largely procedural.

• Approval of minutes from February 6, 2023
• Spring Leadership Meeting discussion
• March Ashford Citizen Update
• Project updates
• New member recruitment

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss the 2023-2024 budget, including scheduling a special meeting to set dates for the Annual Town Meeting, contingent on the Board of Finance's adoption of the budget. They will also review and award the Ashford Memorial Park mowing bid, consider tax refunds, and make several board and commission appointments.

• Review and award Ashford Memorial Park mowing bid
• Tax refunds
• Board and commission appointments (Conservation, Economic Development, Inland Wetlands, Zoning Board of Appeals, Recreation)
• Status of after school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• 2023-2024 budget – schedule special meeting for Annual Town Meeting dates

The Board of Selectmen authorized the First Selectman to post dates and legal notices for the Annual Town Meeting and budget referendum. The board also awarded a mowing contract and filled one commission vacancy.

• Approved authorization to post Annual Town Meeting and referendum dates pending Board of Finance budget adoption (unanimous)
• Awarded Ashford Memorial Park mowing bid to Greg Peck for 4/15/2023 through 11/15/2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Elaine Zincavag to an Alternate Member seat on the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting from 3/27/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will consider transferring $85,000 (or a new request of $85,492) from the 1% fund, review a capital improvement request from the Board of Selectmen, and discuss moving unassigned fund balance to capital nonrecurring (CNR). They will also continue FY 2023-2024 budget discussions and approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Transfer of $85,000 or $85,492 from 1% fund
• Capital Improvement request from BOS to BOF for approval
• Discussion on moving unassigned fund balance to CNR (10-15%)
• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Approve minutes from March 9 and March 30, 2023 meetings

The Board of Finance approved transferring $346,773.98 from the unassigned fund balance to the Capital Nonrecurring Fund (CNR) and $80,006.02 to the Board of Education's nonlapsing fund. The board also accepted a request from the Board of Selectmen to provide $355,945.10 to the CNR for FY 2023-2024 capital projects.

• Approved moving $80,006.02 from unassigned fund balance to BOE nonlapsing fund (4-1)
• Accepted BOS request to provide $355,945.10 to the CNR for FY 2023-2024 capital projects (Unanimous)
• Approved moving 11% ($346,773.98) from unassigned fund balance to the CNR (Unanimous)
• Approved March 9, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (Unanimous)
• Approved March 23, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (Unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will review administrative reports and discuss the budget and personnel policies. The agenda does not provide specific details regarding these topics.

• Budget discussion
• Personnel policies review

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review and possibly act on adjustments to the 2023-2024 general government budget and the proposed capital improvement budget, including a CNR allocation. They will also discuss the status of an after-school childcare program proposed by the Recreation Commission and accept the resignation of Public Works Supervisor Joe Kalinowski.

• Review and/or act on 2023-2024 general government budget adjustments
• Review and/or act on proposed Capital Improvement budget and CNR allocation
• Status update on after-school childcare program proposed by the Recreation Commission
• Acceptance of resignation of Public Works Supervisor Joe Kalinowski
• Capital Projects Committee update

The Board of Selectmen approved specific budget cuts to meet a request from the Board of Finance. The board also processed tax refunds and accepted the retirement of the Public Works Supervisor.

• Approved $20,000 in budget reductions across Contingency, Ashford Citizen, Fire Department, Animal Control, and DPW Sand/Salt (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund to Sarah Lucas for $463.36 (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund to Michael or Lisa Kelly for $180.04 (unanimous)
• Approved use of town roadways for 'Ride for Gage' motorcycle run in September (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Public Works Supervisor Joe Kalinowski (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from 2/21/2023, 3/6/2023, and 3/14/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance special meeting scheduled for March 27, 2023, has been canceled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting canceled

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is holding a special meeting to adopt the proposed town budget for fiscal year 2023-2024 and to set the date and approve notice for a public hearing on the budget. The meeting is hybrid, with in-person attendance at Town Offices and remote access via Zoom.

• Adoption of proposed FY 2023-2024 town budget
• Setting date and approving notice for public hearing on budget

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to discuss the FY 2023-2024 budget, including budget requests needing clarification and a capital improvement request from the Board of Selectmen. The board will also hear a Selectmen's update and consider recommendations. Public comments are limited to 3 minutes per speaker.

• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Budget requests requiring additional clarifications
• Capital Improvement request BOS to BOF
• BOS recommendations
• Approve minutes of March 9, 2023 meeting

The Board of Finance voted to reduce the Board of Education budget by $60,000 and the Board of Selectmen's General Government budget by $20,000. A public hearing for the town budget was scheduled for April 4, 2023. A motion to accept the budgets as initially proposed was defeated.

• Motion to accept initially proposed BOE and BOS budgets defeated (2-4)
• Approved $60,000 cut from BOE budget and $20,000 cut from General Government budget (Unanimous)
• Approved adding voting on BOE and General Government budgets to the agenda (Unanimous)
• Rescinded previous vote to accept initial BOE and BOS budgets (Unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Ashford Town Budget for April 4, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Postponed approval of March 9, 2023 meeting minutes

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review expenditures and discuss marketing efforts for local businesses. Members are also discussing the website, potential ARPA grant opportunities, and officer elections.

• Report of expenditures
• EDC Marketing and Communications updates
• Potential ARPA Grants to businesses
• Election of officers
• New member recruitment

The meeting was canceled due to a lack of quorum. No substantive decisions were made.

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals is holding a special meeting to hear three property assessment appeals by appointment, approve prior meeting minutes, and discuss the assessor's request to amend the 2022 Grand List. The meeting also includes a budget proposal for FY 2024 and other board business.

• Appeal by Michael Kelly for 252 Hillside Rd
• Appeal by Timothy Wohlhueter for 74 Squaw Hollow Rd
• Appeal by Andrew Meade for 69 Westford Rd
• Assessor's request to change 2022 Grand List (M-13 filing)
• FY 2024 budget proposal

The Board reviewed and adjusted the assessed values for three properties. The Board also unanimously approved the Assessor's requested changes to the 2021 Grand List.

• Approved minutes from 9/9/2022 meeting
• Reduced 252 Hillside Rd value from 10,830 to 5,250
• Reduced 74 Squaw Hollow Rd value from 102,690 to 83,160
• Reduced 69 Westford Rd value from 94,290 to 64,520
• Unanimously approved Assessor's requested changes to 2021 Grand List

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review the 2023-2024 general government and DPW budgets, as well as the proposed Capital Improvement budget and CNR allocation. They will also discuss the status of an after-school childcare program and consider several board and commission appointments. The meeting will be held via Zoom only.

• Review 2023-2024 general government and DPW budgets
• Review and/or act on proposed Capital Improvement budget and CNR allocation
• Status of after-school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Board and commission appointments: Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Recreation Commission
• Acceptance of resignation of Public Works Supervisor Joe Kalinowski

Agriculture Commission

The Ashford Agriculture Commission will hold a regular meeting with items including a public hearing, a chairman's briefing, and unfinished business on membership, tax abatements, and member initiatives. New business includes a discussion on counting agriculture as 'rural'.

• Discussion on counting agriculture as 'Rural'
• Unfinished business: Tax Abatements
• Unfinished business: Membership
• Chairman's briefing: Farm Bureau update
• Public hearing

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will review budget and expense reports for January and February 2023. The agenda includes policy updates regarding student health and drug use, as well as updates on facilities and capital improvements.

• Approval of January 2023 and February 2023 Budget and Expense Reports
• First Reading of Policy Updates provided by Counsel
• Second Reading of policies regarding Chemical Health for Student Athletes and Drug and Alcohol Use by Students
• Bicknell Scholarship Committee Appointments
• School Meals Survey

The Board of Education approved funding for school infrastructure improvements and appointed members to the Bicknell Scholarship Committee. The board also approved a maternity leave request and a consent agenda including budget reports and policy readings.

• Authorized $60,000 from the non-lapsing fund for generator upgrades and a new fire alarm panel (unanimous)
• Appointed Meghan Smith, Al Maccarone, and Jennifer Leszczynski to the Bicknell Scholarship Committee (unanimous)
• Approved maternity leave request for Tiffany Mararra (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including January and February 2023 Budget and Expense Reports (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 02/16/2023 with two specific edits (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hear a proposed Region 19 budget request from Superintendent Sharon Cournoyer and discuss budget requests needing clarification, a capital improvement request from the Board of Selectmen, and the FY 2023-2024 budget. The meeting includes public comments and approval of prior minutes.

• Proposed Region 19 budget request presented by Superintendent Sharon Cournoyer
• Budget requests requiring additional clarifications
• Capital improvement request from Board of Selectmen to Board of Finance
• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hear a proposed Region 19 budget request from Superintendent Sharon Cournoyer and discuss the FY 2023-2024 budget. The board will also consider capital improvement requests from the Board of Selectmen and address budget items needing clarification.

• Proposed Region 19 Budget request presented by Superintendent Sharon Cournoyer
• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Capital Improvement request from Board of Selectmen to Board of Finance
• Budget requests requiring additional clarifications
• Board of Selectmen recommendations

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will review the 2023-2024 general government, DPW, and Capital Improvement budgets, discuss the status of a proposed after-school childcare program, and consider appointments to several boards and commissions. The meeting is a regular business session with public comment and old/new business items.

• Review 2023-2024 general government and DPW budgets
• Review and/or act on proposed Capital Improvement budget and related CNR allocation
• Status of after school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Appointments to Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Recreation Commission
• Acceptance of minutes from 2/21/2023 and 3/6/2023 meetings

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals regular meeting scheduled for March 14, 2023, at 6:00 PM has been cancelled. No business will be conducted.

• Meeting cancelled

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is holding its monthly hybrid meeting. The board will approve February minutes, hear the director's and budget reports, and discuss the Ashford Housing Development. Business items include reviewing the Commissioner Handbook and issuing an RFP for a consultant.

• Approval of February 14, 2023 minutes
• Director's monthly report
• February financial report
• Review Commissioner Handbook
• RFP for Consultant

The board approved the February budget report and the minutes from the February 14 meeting. Members discussed upcoming requests for proposals for legal services and development consultants, as well as a CDBG application process.

• Approved February 14, 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved February budget report (All in favor)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission meets March 13, 2023, via Zoom. They will hold a public hearing on a short-term rental application at 88 Ashford Lake Drive (PZ-23-1, continued from Feb. 13) and another on PZ-22-9. They will also discuss possible text amendments to definitions and interstate interchange rules, and receive a 1-lot resubdivision application for 285 Turnpike Rd.

• Public hearing: short-term rental at 88 Ashford Lake Drive (PZ-23-1, continued)
• Public hearing: PZ-22-9 (no discussion, continue to April 10)
• Text amendment review: Article 300-14 (Definitions) and Article 300-19 (Interstate Interchange)
• New business: PZ-23-5 (for receipt only)
• Resubdivision application: 285 Turnpike Rd., owners Micah+Kristin Bond

The commission held a public hearing regarding proposed zoning text amendments for the Interstate Interchange Development (IID) zone, which was continued to April 10, 2023. The commission also received a resubdivision application for 285 Turnpike Rd. No decision was made on the IID amendments.

• Approved February 13, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for PZ-23-1 text amendments to April 10, 2023
• Tabled unfinished business regarding 'Primary Residence' definitions (unanimous)
• Received PZ-23-5 1-lot resubdivision application for 285 Turnpike Rd. (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to receive the General Government Budget and Capital Improvement Plan from the Board of Selectmen, and to continue discussion of the FY 2023-2024 budget. The meeting includes public comments and approval of prior minutes. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda beyond these discussions.

• General Government Budget presented to BOF by BOS
• Capital Improvement Plan presented to BOF by BOS
• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Approve minutes of March 3, 2023 meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The March 8, 2023 meeting of the Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals is cancelled due to no new business. The next meeting is scheduled for April 12, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled due to no new business
• Next meeting scheduled for April 12, 2023

Conservation Commission

The Ashford Conservation Commission is holding a regular meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes routine items like approval of minutes and treasurer's report, as well as discussions on upcoming events such as Trash Cleanup Day and Pollinator Group programs. No major decisions or public hearings are listed beyond a PZC public hearing under old business.

• Trash Cleanup Day scheduled for April 23, Sunday
• Pollinators Group events and spring/summer programs to be discussed
• PZC public hearing listed under old business

The Commission discussed logistics for the upcoming Trash Cleanup Day and noted ongoing activities by the Pollinators Group. No formal votes were recorded for the agenda items.

• Scheduled Trash Cleanup Day for Sunday, April 23, meeting at Knowlton at 8:45am
• Approved Treasurer's Report for approximately $100 for seeds and native plants

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Ashford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission is holding its regularly scheduled meeting. The main item of business is a review of a re-subdivision application by Michah and Kristen Bond to widen an existing driveway at 285 Turnpike Rd. The agenda also includes seating of alternates, old business, an agent report, and member comments.

• Review of re-subdivision and driveway widening application by Michah & Kristen Bond at 285 Turnpike Rd

The meeting was cancelled and adjourned because a quorum was not present. One member recused himself to represent a subdivision application as a soil scientist.

• Cancelled and adjourned meeting due to lack of quorum (Unanimous)

Commission on Aging

The Ashford Commission on Aging is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports, and discuss old and new business. Key items include planning an open discussion with other COA boards, selecting speakers for educational programs, and setting this year's tentative calendar of events.

• Approve minutes of January 3, 2023
• Discuss date for open discussion with other COA boards
• Select speakers for educational programs
• Plan Veterans Day card making event
• Review tentative calendar of events for 2023

The Commission on Aging approved a funding contribution for the upcoming June 9th picnic. The board also reviewed updates on the Agent for the Elderly's meal programs and the May 13th Health fair.

• Approved minutes of April 6, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved contribution of up to $350 for June 9th picnic expenses (unanimous)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town Our Future Core Committee is holding a routine meeting to approve minutes, hear communications, and discuss old and new business. Items include a spring leadership meeting, citizen update, project updates, and new member recruitment. The agenda is mostly procedural with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Approval of February 6, 2023 minutes
• Spring Leadership Meeting discussion
• March Ashford Citizen Update
• Project Updates
• New Member Recruitment

The meeting was cancelled by M. Gantick because the Zoom link did not work. No substantive decisions were made.

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting with public comment, approval of prior minutes, and updates from boards and commissions. Key items include a status update on the proposed after-school childcare program and a request to the Board of Finance for an extension of the 2023-2024 budget presentation date. The board will also receive a Capital Projects Committee update and consider appointments to several town boards and commissions.

• Status of after-school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• 2023-2024 budget and request to BOF for extension of presentation date
• Capital Projects Committee update
• Appointments to Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Recreation Commission

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved a 2023-2024 General Government budget request of $3,845,804 for presentation to the Board of Finance. The board also appointed members to the Capital Improvements Committee and approved two tax refunds.

• Approved 2023-2024 General Government budget request of $3,845,804 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Paul Varga, Cindy Ford, Judi Austin, Joe Kalinowski, William Falletti, and Chuck Funk to the 2023-2024 Capital Improvements Committee (Unanimous)
• Approved tax refund to Wanda Fabian for $10.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved tax refund to Ally Financial for $323.72 (Unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to discuss the FY 2023-2024 budget, including a presentation of the Ashford School Budget by the Board of Education. The board will also elect a clerk and handle routine items like approving minutes and public comments.

• Ashford School Budget presented to BOF and BOS by BOE
• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Election of Board of Finance Clerk
• Approve minutes of February 16, 2023 meeting

The Board of Finance elected a new clerk and reviewed the Board of Education's proposed 2023-2024 budget. No votes were taken on the school budget, and the Board of Selectmen's budget presentation was postponed to the following week.

• Elected John Kopec as BOF Clerk (Unanimous)
• Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes (Passed with one abstention)

Library Board of Trustees

This meeting consists primarily of routine reports from the Secretary, Treasurer, and Library Director. The board will also address budget matters and personnel policies.

• Budget discussion
• Personnel policies discussion

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting to discuss the 2023-2024 budget and a request to the Board of Finance for an extension of the presentation date, receive an update from the Capital Projects Committee, and consider appointments to several boards and commissions. They will also hear the status of a proposed after-school childcare program from the Recreation Commission.

• 2023-2024 budget and request to BOF for extension of presentation date
• Capital Projects Committee update
• Appointments to Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Recreation Commission
• Status of after school childcare program as proposed by the Recreation Commission

Board of Selectmen

The regular Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled for February 28, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. has been cancelled in anticipation of weather conditions. No business will be conducted at this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled due to anticipated weather conditions

Conservation Commission

The Ashford Conservation Commission is meeting via Zoom to handle routine business including minutes, treasurer's report, and correspondence. The main items of discussion are the Interstate Interchange Development Zone (IID) zoning proposal from the Planning and Zoning Commission, and whether to continue holding meetings via Zoom. The commission will also review CLCC membership and plans for Trash Cleanup Day.

• Discussion of Interstate Interchange Development Zone (IID) PZC zoning proposal
• Decision on continuing Zoom meetings
• Review of CLCC membership
• Planning for Trash Cleanup Day
• Approval of minutes and treasurer's report

The commission decided to join the CT Land Conservation Council and scheduled a trash cleanup day. Members discussed a proposed zoning amendment for an Interstate Interchange Development Zone and planned a formal letter of opposition to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

• Approved joining CT Land Conservation Council for $150
• Scheduled Trash Cleanup Day for Sunday, April 23
• Unanimously decided to continue meetings via Zoom
• Agreed to draft a letter to the Zoning Officer regarding the Interstate Interchange Development Zone proposal

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Ashford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will hold a special meeting to review two permit applications: a retaining wall at 7 Lake View Dr and pond maintenance at 34 Selles Rd. The commission will also hear an agent report and member comments before adjourning.

• IW 23-01: Retaining wall at 7 Lake View Dr (Jennifer Dillon)
• IW 23-02: Pond maintenance at 34 Selles Rd (Eastern CT Sportsmans Club)

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission unanimously approved two projects: a retaining wall installation at 7 Lake View Dr. and pond maintenance for the Eastern CT Sportsman's Club. Both approvals require the use of specific erosion controls and consultation with the enforcement officer before work begins.

• Approved construction of new retaining wall and repair of steps/old wall at 7 Lake View Dr. (Unanimous)
• Approved pond maintenance project for Eastern CT Sportsman's Club at 34 Selles Rd. (Unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance meets to receive the General Government Budget and Capital Improvement Plan from the Board of Selectmen, and to discuss transferring unexpended town funds to the Capital Non-recurring Fund. The board will also consider a request from the Board of Education to transfer year-end monies to its Non-lapsing Fund, and continue FY 2023-2024 budget discussions.

• General Government Budget presented by Board of Selectmen
• Capital Improvement Plan presented by Board of Selectmen
• Discussion of transferring unexpended town funds to Capital Non-recurring Fund
• Request from BOE to transfer $80,006.02 (1% of year-end monies) to BOE Non-lapsing Fund (10-248a) for FY 2022
• Election of Board of Finance Clerk

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission is meeting to discuss its budget, marketing efforts, and potential ARPA grants for businesses. They will also review updates from other commissions and plan for officer elections and new member recruitment.

• Report of expenditures
• Update on I-84 and PZC regulations from 2-13-23 public hearing
• Grant opportunity through Eastern CT Tourism District for CTvisit.com expansion
• Potential ARPA grants to businesses: response from Board of Selectmen and next steps
• Election of officers

The meeting was canceled due to a lack of quorum. No substantive decisions were made.

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will hold its regular meeting, including public comment, approval of prior minutes, and updates from boards and commissions. Under old business, they will discuss the status of an after-school child care program proposed by the Recreation Commission. Under new business, they will consider appointments to several boards and commissions and a request for permission to use town roadways for a motorcycle run/benefit on June 10, 2023.

• Status update on after-school child care program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Appointments to Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Recreation Commission
• Request for permission to use town roadways for Motorcycle Run/Benefit on 6/10/2023

The Board of Selectmen recommended hiring a project manager to oversee the Ashford School roof project. The board also approved the use of town roadways for a motorcycle benefit event in June.

• Recommended hiring a project manager for the Ashford School roof project (unanimous)
• Approved use of town roadways for Motorcycle Run/Benefit on 6/10/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Regular Meeting 2/6/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Special Meeting 2/11/2023 (passed; Phillips abstained)

Agriculture Commission

The Ashford Agriculture Commission is holding a regular meeting with a standard agenda. They will hear public comment, approve minutes, and discuss unfinished business including membership and tax abatements submitted to the Board of Selectmen. New business includes member initiatives, followed by round table discussion and action item assignments.

• Discussion of tax abatements as submitted to BOS
• Membership updates and welcome new member
• Approval of minutes from January 19, 2022
• Public hearing for comments
• Member initiatives and round table discussion

The Commission approved the January 19, 2022, meeting minutes with amendments to the adjournment time and meeting dates. Members discussed tax abatements and established a monthly article calendar for agricultural topics. No final decisions were made on the right to farm ordinance or tax abatements.

• Approved January 19, 2022 minutes with amendments (Unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Seated N. Weinstock and M. Brauch as alternates
• Established monthly article calendar for March through December

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will meet to conduct a final review of the FY 24 budget documents before presenting them to the Board of Finance. The agenda also includes a facility update and committee breakout sessions on cafeteria and transportation.

• Final review of FY 24 budget documents for presentation to the Board of Finance
• Facility update
• Committee breakout sessions on cafeteria and transportation

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from January 19 and February 2, 2023, with minor edits. Members reviewed FY 24 budget documents for submission to the Board of Finance and discussed roof replacement and electric bus research.

• Approved minutes of 01/19/2023 and 02/02/2023 (Unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes, hear a Selectmen's update, and discuss the FY 2023-2024 budget. The board will also elect a Board of Finance Clerk. The meeting is hybrid, with in-person attendance at Town Offices and online via Zoom.

• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Election of Board of Finance Clerk
• Approve minutes from January 26 and February 9 meetings
• Selectmen's update

The Board approved the minutes from the January 26 and February 9 meetings. Members discussed the Board of Education budget and received updates on a $5 million school roof project and zoning regulation proposals. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved January 26, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 9, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The regular Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. in Room 305 of the Town Office Building has been cancelled. No agenda items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority is holding its monthly meeting to review routine reports and discuss a rent increase proposal, the annual report, and a draft maintenance policy. The meeting is open to the public with a two-minute comment period.

• Rent increase proposal
• Annual Report review
• Draft Maintenance Policy review
• January financial report
• Approval of January 10, 2023 minutes

The Commission approved the January budget report and the minutes from the January 12 meeting. The board discussed a proposal to increase base rent annually by 2-4% and the creation of a five-year maintenance plan, both of which are pending future votes.

• Approved January 12, 2023 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved January budget report (All in favor)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business including financial reports, minutes, and appointments. They will also discuss program updates for basketball, Hearts & Crafts, and after-school activities, as well as parks maintenance. New business includes budget submission and an Active Living grant from EHHD.

• Financial report review
• Program updates for basketball, Hearts & Crafts, and after-school
• Parks maintenance discussion
• Budget submission
• Active Living grant application (EHHD)

The Commission approved the January meeting minutes and discussed potential uses for an Active Living grant from EHHD. Members agreed to pursue funding for outdoor fitness equipment at Ashford Memorial Park. The Board of Selectman appointed Dave Roston as Interim Chairperson.

• Approved minutes from 1/9/2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Dave Roston as Interim Chairperson
• Agreed to pursue EHHD Active Living grant for outdoor fitness equipment at Ashford Memorial Park

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on February 13, 2023, via Zoom. The agenda includes public hearings on a short-term rental application, a special permit for a rural business, and text amendments to zoning definitions and interstate interchange regulations. The commission will also consider approval of minutes, public comments, and other routine items.

• Public Hearing PZ-22-9: Short-Term Rental at 88 Ashford Lake Drive (Owner J. Pufahl)
• Public Hearing PZ-23-1: Special Permit for Rural Business at 3 Lakeside Drive (Applicant D. Famiglietti)
• Public Hearing PZ-23-2: Short-Term Rental at 7 Amidon Dr (Article 300-17D)
• Text Amendment Application: Article 300-14 (Definitions) and Article 300-19 (Interstate Interchange)
• Special Permit Application: Reduction of non-conforming use (Owner Ruby Realty)

The Commission held a public hearing regarding proposed text amendments to the Interstate Interchange Development Zone to allow for more permitted uses and taller buildings. The hearing remains open for further testimony. The Commission also received three new special permit applications.

• Approved January 9, 2023 meeting minutes (with one abstention)
• Continued public hearing for PZ-23-1 text amendment to March 13, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Tabled definition of 'Primary Residence' until March 13, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Received special permit application PZ-23-2 for rural business at 3 Lakeside Drive (Unanimous)
• Received special permit application PZ-23-3 for reduction of non-conforming use by Ruby Realty LLC (Unanimous)
• Received special permit application PZ-23-4 for short term rental at 7 Amidon Dr. (Unanimous)
• Continued short term rental application PZ-22-9 for 88 Ashford Lake Drive to March 13

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting on February 11, 2023, at the Ashford School cafeteria. The only agenda item is the board's attendance at a public hearing or special town meeting. The meeting is procedural, with no other business listed.

• Board attendance at Public Hearing/Special Town Meeting

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to discuss and potentially rescind a motion regarding a bonding term recommendation made by Silver-Smith at the regular meeting on February 6, 2023. The agenda contains only this single action item, along with procedural items.

• Rescind motion on bonding term recommendation by Silver-Smith from 2/6/2023 meeting

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will meet to approve prior meeting minutes, hear public comments, and discuss the FY 2023-2024 budget. They will also consider approving payment for the annual report and elect a Board of Finance Clerk.

• FY 2023-2024 Budget discussion
• Approval of payment for annual report
• Election of Board of Finance Clerk
• Approve minutes of January 26, 2023 meeting

The Board of Finance approved a payment for the formatting and editing of the 2022 Town Annual Report. Other agenda items, including the approval of previous meeting minutes and the election of a board clerk, were tabled or left unresolved.

• Approved $350 payment to Ms. Robinson for 2022 Town Annual Report formatting and editing (Unanimous)
• Tabled approval of January 26, 2023 meeting minutes
• Election of Board of Finance Clerk postponed as no one volunteered

Zoning Board of Appeals

The February 8, 2023 meeting of the Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals is cancelled with no new business. The next meeting is scheduled for March 8, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled
• No new business
• Next meeting March 8, 2023

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Ashford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will review three new permit applications for activities near wetlands, including a retaining wall, pond maintenance, and residential construction. The commission will also discuss membership, hear an agent's report, and take public comments.

• IW 23-01: 7 Lakeview Dr, Jennifer Dillon, retaining wall
• IW 23-02: 34 Selles Rd, Eastern CT Sportsmans Club, pond maintenance
• IW 23-03: 7 Amidon Dr, Peter Marcue, residential construction and driveway installation
• Review and approval of minutes from Nov. 1, 2022 meeting
• Discussion on commission membership

The Commission accepted permit applications for a retaining wall and pond maintenance, and granted after-the-fact approval for a driveway installation. A special meeting was scheduled for February 24 to consider the Eastern CT Sportsman's Club application.

• Approved minutes of Nov. 1, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted permit application IW 23-01 for retaining wall at 7 Lakeview Dr. (unanimous)
• Accepted permit application IW 23-02 for pond maintenance at 34 Selles Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved permit application IW 23-03 for driveway installation at 7 Amidon Dr. via agent's approval (unanimous)
• Agreed to request Board of Selectmen appoint Elaine Zincavag as an alternate member

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting with public comment, a first selectman's briefing, and approval of prior minutes. They will discuss the status of a proposed after-school childcare program, consider appointments to several commissions, and discuss or act on setting a special town meeting date for proposed ARPA allocations.

• Discuss/act on setting special town meeting date for proposed ARPA allocations
• Status of after school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Appointments: Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals
• Tax refunds
• Acceptance of minutes from 1/17, 1/24, 1/31/2023

The Board of Selectmen recommended a 15-year bonding term for the school roof to be voted on at a Special Town Meeting. The board also appointed a new Town Webmaster and an interim Chairman for the Recreation Commission.

• Recommended 15-year bonding term for school roof financing (unanimous)
• Appointed Karen Zulick as Town of Ashford Webmaster, effective 2/1/2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed David Roston as interim Chairman of the Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Approved $880.54 tax refund to Timothy and Dawn Barrett-Walsh (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 1/24/2023 and 1/31/2023 (unanimous)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town Our Future Core Committee is holding a special meeting to approve prior minutes, hear project updates, recruit new members, and plan a spring leadership meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions, votes, or dollar amounts listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 9, 2023
• Project updates under old business
• New member recruitment discussion
• Planning for spring leadership meeting
• Monthly citizen updates

The committee approved the minutes from January 9, 2023. Members discussed the committee's role in facilitating information regarding proposed zoning text amendments and agreed to maintain a non-political stance. The committee also decided to continue providing monthly citizen updates on Leadership Meetings.

• Approved January 9, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to maintain non-political role in facilitating information flow
• Decided to continue monthly citizen updates on Leadership Meetings

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting with public comment, approval of minutes, and updates from boards. They will discuss filling multiple vacancies on town commissions, tax refunds, and possibly setting a special town meeting date for proposed ARPA allocations.

• Discuss and/or act on setting a special town meeting date for proposed ARPA allocations
• Tax refunds
• Appointments to Recreation Commission, Conservation Commission, Economic Development Commission, Commission on Aging, Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals
• Status of after school childcare program as proposed by the Recreation Commission
• Recreation Commission membership

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will meet via Zoom to discuss the FY2023-2024 budget and appoint a representative to the Capital Improvements Committee. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and public comments, with no final decisions listed.

• FY2023-2024 Budget Discussion
• Appointment of Board of Finance representative to Capital Improvements Committee
• Selectmen's update

The Board of Finance accepted the town audit for the year ending June 30, 2022. The board also appointed a representative to the Capital Improvements Committee. Discussions were held regarding the FY 2023-2024 budget and a vacancy for the BOF Clerk position.

• Approved minutes of January 19, 2023 meeting (Unanimous)
• Accepted Town of Ashford's audit for year ending June 30, 2022 by King, King & Associates (Unanimous)
• Appointed Judith Austin as BOF representative on the Ashford Capital Improvements Committee (Unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission is meeting to discuss its proposed 2023-24 budget, potential ARPA grants to businesses, and an update on I-84 and Planning & Zoning Commission regulations. The agenda also includes updates on marketing efforts, the commission's website, and the 2023 strategic plan.

• 2023-24 Proposed EDC Budget
• I-84 and PZC regulations update
• Potential ARPA Grants to businesses
• Grant opportunity through Eastern CT Tourism District for CTvisit.com expansion
• 2023 EDC Strategic Plan

The Economic Development Commission approved a motion to support Planning & Zoning Commission regulations that encourage economic development at the Ashford Motel site. The commission also agreed to request a $1,950 budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

• Approved support for PZC regulation revisions regarding the Ashford Motel site (J. Calarese abstained)
• Agreed to submit a $1,950 budget request for 2023-24
• Approved December 21, 2022 meeting minutes
• Tabled election of officers
• Agreed to investigate cost of using a Google Group for document sharing

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will set a date and approve legal notice for a public hearing and special town meeting to approve issuing a bond for the Ashford School roof project, and will review bonding procedures. The board will also discuss potential ARPA fund allocations, fill multiple board and commission vacancies, and consider how to conduct future meetings.

• Set date and approve legal notice for Public Hearing/Special Town Meeting on Ashford School roof bond
• Review Ashford School Roof Project bonding procedures
• Discuss potential ARPA allocations
• Fill vacancies on Recreation, Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development, Commission on Aging, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Consider method of conducting future Selectmen's Meetings

Conservation Commission

The Ashford Conservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business and discuss several items, including a Farmers Market, the CT Trails website, CLCC membership, the Interstate 84 Interchange, and a program on reducing waste/trash. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Farmers Market discussion
• CT Trails website update
• CLCC membership consideration
• Interstate 84 Interchange discussion
• Program on reducing waste/trash

The Commission discussed a proposed zoning change for the I-84 interchange area involving distribution centers and warehouses. Chair Loretta Wrobel will send a letter to the Planning and Zoning Commission encouraging a review of the ECCD assessment. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

• No formal votes recorded
• Loretta Wrobel to send letter to PZC regarding I-84 interchange zoning recommendations

Agriculture Commission

The Ashford Agriculture Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, public comments, and communications. They will also address unfinished business such as membership and tax abatements submitted to the Board of Selectmen, and new business including the 2023 meeting schedule, election of officers, and a review of the Agriculture Commission Ordinance.

• Review of tax abatements as submitted to BOS
• Review of Agriculture Commission Ordinance
• Election of officers
• 2023 meeting schedule
• Upcoming POCD revision

The commission voted to recommend the appointment of Joe Murphy as a full member to the Board of Selectmen. The body also established its 2023 meeting schedule. No action was taken on tax abatements.

• Recommended Joe Murphy for appointment as a full member (Unanimous)
• Approved November 17, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved keeping meetings on the third Thursday of each month (Unanimous)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing, a second reading of a bylaw on meeting dates, and a discussion of the 2023-2024 school calendar. New business includes setting the number and dollar amount of Bicknell Trust scholarships.

• Second reading of bylaw: Meeting Date, Place and Time
• Approve minutes from January 5, 2023
• Facility and capital planning update
• Distribute first draft of 2023-2024 school calendar
• Set number and denomination of 2023 Bicknell Trust scholarships

The Board of Education approved the issuance of up to four scholarships of $1,000 each from the Bicknell Trust. The board also accepted a consent agenda including the 01/05/2023 minutes and a draft school calendar. Discussions were held regarding the FY 24 budget and the school roof project.

• Approved up to four Bicknell Trust Scholarships of $1,000 each (unanimous)
• Accepted consent agenda including 01/05/2023 minutes and 2023-2024 draft school calendar (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance is meeting to hear an audit presentation from King & King, appoint a member to the Capital Improvements Committee, and begin initial discussion of the FY2023-2024 budget. The board will also review expenditures and revenue as old business. Public comments are limited to 3 minutes per speaker.

• Audit presentation by King & King
• Appointment of Board of Finance representative to Capital Improvements Committee
• Initial FY2023-2024 Budget Discussion
• Expenditures and Revenue review
• Approve minutes of December 8, 2022 meeting

The Board of Finance reviewed the town audit for the year ending June 30, 2022, including federal and state financial awards. The board approved the minutes from the December 8, 2022 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved December 8, 2022 meeting minutes (passed with three abstentions)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review RFP responses for a financial advisor regarding the Ashford School Roof Project. The meeting also includes discussions on the school oil tank replacement, an after-school childcare program proposal, and several commission vacancies.

• Ashford School Roof Project: Reviewing RFP responses for financial advisor
• Ashford School Roof Project: Setting date for Public Hearing/Special Town Meeting regarding bond authorization
• Status of Ashford School oil tank replacement project
• Proposed after school childcare program by the Recreation Commission
• Appointments for various boards including Recreation, Agriculture, and Conservation Commissions

The Board of Selectmen hired Munistat as a financial consultant for the Ashford School roof project and scheduled a special town meeting for February 11, 2023, to vote on $5 million in bonding. Additionally, the board permanently appointed Sherri Soucy as Town Treasurer.

• Hired Munistat as Financial Consultant for Ashford School roof project bonding at an estimated cost of $15,000 (Unanimous)
• Scheduled Public Hearing and Special Town Meeting for February 11, 2023, to consider $5,000,000 bonding for the Ashford School roof project
• Appointed Sherri Soucy as Treasurer of the Town of Ashford effective 12/28/2022 (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 12/19/2022 (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 1/10/2023 (Unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance meeting scheduled for January 12, 2023, has been cancelled per the Chair. No business will be conducted.

• Meeting cancelled

Zoning Board of Appeals

The January 11, 2023 meeting of the Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals is cancelled due to no new business. The next meeting is scheduled for February 8, 2023.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting February 8, 2023

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees is meeting to receive reports from the secretary, treasurer, and library director, and to discuss the budget and an update from the director. No votes on specific items are listed on this agenda.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Library Director's Report
• Old Business – Budget
• New Business – Update from the Director

The Board approved the minutes from the November 22, 2022, regular meeting. The Treasurer's report was tabled, and the budget was reviewed for presentation to the town by January 13, 2023.

• Approved Regular Meeting minutes of November 22, 2022
• Tabled Treasurer's report

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will discuss and potentially authorize the First Selectman and School Superintendent to award a bid for the Ashford School oil tank replacement project. They will also review bonding procedures for the school roof project and hear updates on the after-school childcare program and Eversource tree trimming. Several board and commission appointments are on the agenda, along with tax refunds and other routine items.

• Discussion and action on authorizing bid award for Ashford School oil tank replacement
• Review of Ashford School Roof Project bonding procedures
• Status update on after-school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Eversource tree trimming – public safety and power outage concerns
• Appointments to multiple boards and commissions, including Recreation, Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development, Commission on Aging, Inland Wetlands, and Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board of Selectmen approved a contract for a new fuel tank at Ashford School and reappointed the Assistant Animal Control Officer. Members also discussed the status of a proposed after-school childcare program and upcoming board vacancies.

• Approved $64,705 bid from John W. Kennedy Company – RI for Ashford School fuel tank (unanimous)
• Reappointed Christine Abikoff as Assistant Animal Control Officer for 2023 (unanimous)
• Waived approval of 12/19/2022 minutes to the 1/17/2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved entering Executive Session to discuss human resource strategies (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority holds its annual meeting to elect officers, review the December financial and quarterly reports, and discuss 2023 goals. The board will also hear the director's monthly update and consider the director's salary in executive session. Public comments are limited to two minutes per speaker.

• Election of officers
• December financial report and quarterly report review
• Review of 2023 goals
• Executive session on director salary
• Public access with two-minute comment limit

The board approved the 2023 slate of officers and the December budget report. A salary increase for Director Miller was approved. The board also identified three primary goals for the year, including a major rehab project and a housing needs assessment.

• Approved December 13, 2022 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved 2023 slate of officers (All in favor)
• Approved December budget report (All in favor)
• Approved Director Miller's salary increase to $47,000 annually (All in favor)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Our Town Our Future Core Committee is holding a special meeting to approve prior minutes, discuss old business including project updates and new member recruitment, and consider leadership information for the February Citizen. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed. Public input is scheduled near the end of the meeting.

• Approval of minutes from December 5, 2022
• Discussion of November Leadership Meeting follow-up
• Project updates
• New member recruitment
• Discussion of leadership info for February Citizen

The committee approved the minutes from the December 5, 2022 meeting. Members discussed follow-ups from a November leadership meeting and reviewed a draft article for the February Citizen.

• Approved December 5, 2022 minutes (4-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission meets to hold a public hearing on a short-term rental application, discuss a 3-lot subdivision, and review a zoning text amendment. The agenda also includes approval of minutes, public comments, officer elections, and by-law review. The meeting is held online via Zoom.

• Public hearing PZ-22-9: short-term rental application at 88 Ashford Lake Drive, owner J. Pufahl
• New business PZC-22-4: 3-lot subdivision at 385/393 Pumpkin Hill Road, owner T. Bunte, applicant D. Famiglietti
• New business PZ-23-1: text amendment application to Article 300-14 (Definitions) and Article 300-19 (Interstate Interchange), applicant Campanelli Rodolakis LM Acquisition LLC & Ashford Realty Trust, LLC
• Discussion of definitions for 'Primary Residence'
• Approval of minutes from December 12, 2022

The Commission approved a 3-lot subdivision application for the estate of Irene Bunte, granting two regulatory waivers. The board also approved corrected bylaws and received a text amendment application regarding the Interstate Interchange Development Zone.

• Approved 3-lot subdivision at 385/393 Pumpkin Hill Road (Unanimous)
• Granted waiver for open space requirements for 385/393 Pumpkin Hill Road (Unanimous)
• Granted waiver for full boundary survey of Lot 1 at 385/393 Pumpkin Hill Road (Unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2022 meeting minutes as corrected (Passed with one abstention)
• Received text amendment application for Articles 300-14 and 300-19 (Unanimous)
• Approved PZC Bylaws as corrected (Unanimous)
• Removed Election of Officers from the agenda (Unanimous)
• Postponed public hearing for short-term rental at 88 Ashford Lake Drive to February 13

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and finalize its budget submission for fiscal year 2022/23, along with reviewing the annual report for 2021/22. The agenda also includes updates on programs like basketball and the Carol Sing, as well as parks maintenance. This is a regular budget and planning meeting, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Budget submission for FY 22/23
• Annual report for FY 21/22
• Financial report for FY 21/22
• Program update: Basketball
• Program evaluation: Carol Sing

The commission approved the November 14, 2022, meeting minutes. Members reviewed and adjusted budget line items to account for cost-of-living increases and the addition of an Afterschool Childcare program, including a new Youth Program Director position.

• Approved minutes from 11/14/22 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will meet to review and revise the FY24 capital improvements list, approve financial and grants reports, and hold a budget work session. The meeting also includes public comment periods and discussion of board goals.

• Review/Revise FY 24 Capital Improvements List
• Approval of Financial Reports: 11/2022 (revised), 12/2022
• Approval of Grants Report (Quarter 2)
• FY 24 Budget Work Session
• Ashford Board of Education Goals discussion

The Board approved the five-year capital plan with modifications discussed during the meeting. The Board also approved previous meeting minutes and financial reports. Members held a work session to review the FY 24 budget, including additions for library media and world language staff.

• Approved minutes from 11/17/2022, 12/01/2022, and 12/15/2022 (Unanimous)
• Approved November and December 2022 financial reports (Unanimous)
• Approved Quarter 2 Grants Report (Unanimous)
• Approved 5 Year Capital Plan with changes noted in discussion (Unanimous)

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The regularly scheduled meeting for January 3, 2023, has been cancelled. The cancellation is due to a lack of new business.

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and potentially act on several school-related items, including authorizing the award of a bid for the Ashford School oil tank purchase, reviewing bonding procedures for the school roof project, and receiving an update on the Advisory School Building Committee. They will also hear about the after-school childcare program and Eversource tree trimming concerns. The board will make appointments to various commissions and consider tax refunds and the reappointment of the Assistant Animal Control Officer.

• Discussion and action on authorizing First Selectman and School Superintendent to award bid for Ashford School oil tank purchase
• Review of Ashford School Roof Project bonding procedures
• Status of after-school childcare program proposed by Recreation Commission
• Eversource tree trimming – public safety and power outage concerns
• Appointments to Recreation, Agriculture, Conservation, Economic Development, Commission on Aging, Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, and Zoning Board of Appeals

Commission on Aging

The Ashford Commission on Aging is holding a regular meeting. The agenda includes a secretary's report, an update from the Agent for the Elderly, and discussion of old business items such as the birthday month and budget questions. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Secretary's report
• Agent for the Elderly update
• Birthday month discussion
• Budget questions

The Commission on Aging voted to request a budget increase from the Board of Selectman/Finance. The commission also approved the minutes from the December 5, 2022 meeting.

• Approved December 5, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved request to Board of Selectman/Finance to increase COA budget from $700 to $1,000 (unanimous)