Ashford public meetings in 2025

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees meeting scheduled for December 23, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered. The next regular meeting is set for Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance will receive a presentation of the 2024-2025 audit from HFM CPAs. Members will also discuss and potentially take action on the budget calendar, 2026-2027 budget policies, and the financial management policy.

• Presentation of the 2024-2025 Audit by Jason Cote, HFM CPAs
• Discussion and possible action on Budget Policies for 26-27
• Discussion and possible action on the Financial Management Policy
• Discussion and possible action regarding the BOF Expenditure Request
• Discussion and possible action regarding the 23-24 Annual Report

The board approved the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes and accepted the 2024‑2025 audit. It also adopted the 2026‑2027 budget calendar, budget policies, financial management policy, BOF expenditure request, and the 2023‑2024 annual report. The October 9, 2025 minutes were not approved due to lack of quorum.

• Failed to approve October 9, 2025 minutes (lack of quorum)
• Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Peppin abstained)
• Approved and accepted 2024‑2025 Audit (unanimous)
• Accepted 2026‑2027 Budget Calendar (unanimous)
• Approved Ashford Budget Policies for 2026‑2027 (unanimous)
• Approved Financial Management Policy (unanimous)
• Approved 2026‑2027 BOF Expenditure Request (unanimous)
• Approved 2023‑2024 Annual Report (unanimous)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will interview candidates, discuss them in executive session, and vote to seat a new member. The board will also consider transferring the remaining audited budget balance to its non‑lapsing fund, appoint a paraeducator, receive an update on the facility manager search, and authorize a contract with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.

• Candidate interviews for Board vacancy (per CGS § 10‑219 and Board Bylaws)
• Executive session discussion of candidates
• Vote to seat a new member on the Board of Education
• Request to transfer remaining FY 25 audited budget balance to the BOE Non‑Lapsing Fund
• Resolution authorizing contract with CT Department of Agriculture (CT Grown for Kids)

The Ashford Board of Education unanimously seated Jennifer Barry as a board member. It also approved transferring the FY 25 audited balance of $18,505 to the board's non‑lapsing fund, appointed Kelsey Boyington as a paraeducator, and authorized a contract with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture for the CT Grown 4 Kids grant. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Seat Jennifer Barry on the Board of Education (unanimous)
• Transfer FY 25 audited balance of $18,505 to non‑lapsing fund (unanimous)
• Appoint Kelsey Boyington as paraeducator (unanimous)
• Authorize contract with CT Department of Agriculture for CT Grown 4 Kids grant (unanimous)

Agriculture Commission

The Agriculture Commission will meet to appoint its Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Secretary for 2026. The body will also discuss membership and a citizen column.

• 2026 Officer Appointments
• Membership discussion
• Citizen Column

The commission approved the November meeting minutes with an amendment removing a reappointed member. Danielle Larese was seated as an alternate member, bringing the quorum to four. The commission unanimously approved a slate of officers for 2026, naming Larese as Chairperson, Jenne as Vice Chairperson, and Weinstock as Secretary.

• Approved November minutes with amendment (4-0)
• Seated Danielle Larese as alternate member (quorum 4)
• Approved 2026 officer slate: Larese Chair, Jenne Vice Chair, Weinstock Secretary (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Economic Development Commission

The meeting scheduled for December 17, 2025, was cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for January 28, 2026.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the November meeting minutes and adopted the FY 26/27 budget with several account reclassifications and fund increases, all by unanimous vote. Changes include moving account 220.431000.53400.000 to Program Expenses, shifting account 220.43100.56815.000 to Town‑Sponsored Activities, raising its allocation from $5,500 to $8,500, and increasing the Membership Fees account to $500. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY 26/27 budget changes (unanimous)
• Reclassified account 220.431000.53400.000 from Other Professional Services to Program Expenses
• Reclassified account 220.43100.56815.000 from Program Expenses to Town‑Sponsored Activities
• Increased account 220.43100.56815.000 allocation from $5,500 to $8,500
• Increased Membership Fees account 220.43300.52311.00 to $500
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will review updates on the school roof replacement and solar projects, then discuss and potentially adopt changes to driveway permit procedures, associated fees, and bonding requirements. The meeting will also include approval of tax refunds and a series of appointments to vacant seats on several town commissions and boards.

• Ashford School Roof Replacement project status
• Ashford School solar project status
• Discuss and act on driveway permit procedures, fees and bonding
• Approval of tax refunds
• Board and Commission appointments to fill multiple vacancies

The Board approved the ASCO agreement, with Maccarone and Silver‑Smith voting yes and Grous not casting a vote. The 2026 Board of Selectmen meeting calendar was adopted unanimously. Four tax refunds totaling $1,407.40 to Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp were approved, and a special town meeting was scheduled for Jan 5 2026 to elect an alternate Board of Finance member. Additional actions included reappointing animal control officers, adding the Capital Projects Committee appointment to the agenda, and appointing a resident representative group.

• Approved ASCO agreement (Maccarone yes, Silver‑Smith yes, Grous no vote)
• Approved 2026 BOS meeting calendar (unanimous)
• Reappointed Animal Control Officer Jennifer Miller and Assistant Animal Control Officer Christine Abikoff (unanimous)
• Approved four tax refunds totaling $1,407.40 to Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp (unanimous)
• Scheduled Special Town Meeting for Jan 5 2026 to elect Alternate BOF member (unanimous)
• Added appointment of 2026‑2027 Capital Projects Committee to agenda (unanimous)
• Appointed resident representative group including Board of Finance, Fire Chief Paul Varga, Public Works Director, First Selectman, and Chuck Funk (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The regular meeting scheduled for December 11, 2025, has been cancelled. A special meeting is set for December 18, 2025, at Town Hall at 7 p.m.

• Regular meeting cancelled
• Special meeting scheduled for Dec 18, 2025

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting to consider candidates for the Library Director position. The agenda includes a possible executive session to interview applicants, another to evaluate candidates and discuss employment terms, and a possible open‑session action to select a candidate and set the terms of employment. No other business is listed.

• Possible executive session to interview applicants for Library Director
• Possible executive session to evaluate candidates and discuss employment terms
• Possible open‑session action to select a Library Director candidate and set employment terms

The board entered an executive session to interview Library Director applicants and later left the session at noon. It then voted to offer the Library Director position to the agreed candidate with an annual salary of $53,000. The meeting was adjourned at 12:01 PM.

• Entered executive session to interview Director applicants (unanimous)
• Exited executive session at 12:00 PM (unanimous)
• Offered Library Director position with $53,000 salary (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:01 PM (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for two appeals against cease-and-desist orders. Both cases involve allegations of unpermitted short-term rentals in the Lake District Zone. Decisions on these appeals are possible but not required at this meeting.

• Public hearing for ZBA-25-2: 73 Lake View Drive appeal of cease-and-desist order
• Public hearing for ZBA-25-3: 76 Lake View Drive appeal of cease-and-desist order

The board voted 5‑0 to sustain the cease‑and‑desist order for 73 Lake View Drive and deny the appellant’s request. It also voted 5‑0 to sustain the cease‑and‑desist order for 76 Lake View Drive and deny that appeal. John Lippert was elected Chair and Susan Eastwood Vice Chair, both unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:56 p.m.

• Sustained Cease-and-Desist Order for 73 Lake View Drive, appeal denied (5-0)
• Sustained Cease-and-Desist Order for 76 Lake View Drive, appeal denied (5-0)
• Elected John Lippert as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Susan Eastwood as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will meet at 6:00 PM on Dec 9, 2025 at the library (25 Pompey Hollow Road). The agenda includes a possible executive session to interview applicants for the Library Director position. The meeting also includes the standard call to order and adjournment.

• Possible executive session to interview Library Director applicants

The Library Board voted unanimously to go into executive session to interview candidates for the Library Director position. After the interview session, the board unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting.

• Entered executive session to interview Library Director applicants (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority special meeting will review and approve the minutes from the November 11, 2025 meeting, receive a director's monthly update and a November financial budget report, and provide updates on the Ashford Housing Development newsletter and the Moderate Rehab Project. The board will then vote to adopt three policies: a Conflict of Interest policy, an Accounting Policy and Procedures, and a Mandated Reporter Policy. The meeting also includes a public access segment for brief comments before adjournment.

• Approve minutes for the November 11, 2025 meeting
• Budget Report: November financial report
• Update on the Moderate Rehab Project
• Approve Conflict of Interest, Accounting Policy and Procedures, and Mandated Reporter Policy
• Public Access: brief comments limited to two minutes

The board approved the November 11 meeting minutes with two votes in favor and one abstention. It also unanimously approved the Conflict‑of‑Interest, Accounting, and Mandated Reporter policies. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved November 11 meeting minutes (2 in favor; 1 abstention)
• Approved Conflict-of-Interest Policy (all in favor)
• Approved Accounting Policy (all in favor)
• Approved Mandated Reporter Policy (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet to approve minutes, handle bills, and discuss a short-term rental permit renewal. The body will also review a draft Plan of Conservation and Development.

• Approval of November 10, 2025 minutes
• PZ-25-7: Special Permit Renewal for short-term rental at 21 Lakeside Dr
• Review of Draft Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD)
• Bills and Correspondence
• Zoning Officer Report

The commission approved the November 10, 2025 meeting minutes, passing the motion unanimously with two members abstaining. It unanimously voted to receive the special‑permit renewal application for a short‑term rental at 21 Lakeside Drive. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous, 2 abstentions)
• Received special‑permit renewal application for short‑term rental at 21 Lakeside Dr (unanimous)
• Deferred election of officers to January 2026 (current officers remain)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks and Recreation Commission will hear public comments, review the FY 25/26 financial report, and approve the November meeting minutes. It will receive updates on the basketball program, program evaluations by Carol Sing, and the revolving fund. New business includes a presentation of the FY 26/27 budget submission and the commission’s annual report.

• Budget submission for FY 26/27
• Annual report presentation
• Program update – basketball
• Program evaluations – Carol Sing
• Revolving fund discussion

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Board of Education will discuss a State/CSDE Data Report and a CABE Convention Report. The meeting includes a first reading of policy updates from counsel dated October 2025.

• First reading of October 2025 Policy Updates from Counsel
• State/CSDE Data Report
• CABE Convention Report
• Board Member Roles and Responsibilities presentation by Nick Caruso (CABE)

The Ashford Board of Education unanimously approved the minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting. The board heard presentations on state/CSDE data and the CABE convention report, with no public comments submitted. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned at 9:11 p.m.

• Approved November 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:11 p.m. (unanimous)

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission is meeting to discuss septic system repair and grading and stump grinding applications. The body will also review modification requests for a foundation drain and a deck rebuild.

• Septic system repair at 38 Ashford Lake Dr.
• Grading and stump grinding at 0 Ashford Lake Dr.
• Timber harvest notification at 203 Bebbington Brook
• Modification request for foundation drain at 58 Ashford Lake Dr.
• Deck rebuild at 9 Lakeside Dr.

The commission approved the November 4 minutes with one abstention. It unanimously approved the septic system repair at 38 Ashford Lake Drive and the timber harvest at 203 Bebbington Road. The board also decided to prepare a new application for grading and stump‑grinding work at 25‑17 Ashford Lake Drive.

• Approved November 4 minutes (1 abstention)
• Approved septic system repair at 38 Ashford Lake Dr. (unanimous)
• Approved timber harvest at 203 Bebbington Rd. (unanimous)
• Decided to prepare new application for grading and stump grinding at 25‑17 Ashford Lake Dr.
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will meet on Dec 2, 2025. After the call to order, members may enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters concerning the evaluation of candidates for the Library Director position and to plan interview strategies for a second round. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Possible executive session to discuss Library Director candidates and second‑round interview strategies (personnel matters)
• Call to order
• Adjournment

The board voted unanimously to enter an executive session at 10:05 a.m. to evaluate candidates for the Library Director position and consider interview strategies. After the discussion, the board voted unanimously to exit the executive session and adjourn the meeting at 10:41 a.m.

• Entered executive session to discuss director candidates (unanimous)
• Exited executive session and adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging will meet to review reports and conduct general business. The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate items.

The commission met on December 2, 2025, heard reports on upcoming events and past activities, and discussed suggestions for future events. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Ashford Our Town Our Future committee will hold a virtual meeting to discuss potential future projects, update the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD), and outline next steps for strategic planning. The meeting will also include updates on existing projects and member recruitment.

• Discussion of potential future projects
• POCD update
• Updates on potential future strategic planning process
• Project updates
• New member recruitment

The committee approved the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Gwen Haaland, seconded by Nora Galvin, and passed unanimously with a 4‑0 vote. No other actions or approvals were taken during the meeting.

• Approved November 3, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and act on driveway permit procedures, fees, and bonding. Members will also consider a stewardship agreement for the collection and disposal of 20# propane tanks. The meeting includes updates on school infrastructure projects and several board appointments.

• Action on driveway permit procedures, fees, and bonding
• Proposed stewardship agreement for 20# propane tank disposal
• Status updates for Ashford School roof replacement and solar projects
• Preliminary discussion on Ashford Academy repairs
• Appointments for Economic Development, Conservation, Agriculture, Zoning, and Planning commissions

The Selectmen accepted the ASCO donation agreement. They also approved a stewardship agreement for propane tank disposal, reappointed several commission members, hired a DPW Maintainer I/Mechanic, and authorized tax refunds. All motions passed unanimously except the ASCO agreement, which passed with one member not voting. The board entered and exited an executive session.

• Accepted ASCO donation agreement (motion passed, Grous did not vote)
• Approved stewardship agreement for 20# propane tanks (unanimous)
• Reappointed six Conservation Commissioners to regular seats (unanimous)
• Reappointed two Conservation Commissioners to alternate seats (unanimous)
• Appointed Danielle Larese to Agriculture Commission alternate seat (unanimous)
• Hired DPW Maintainer I/Mechanic Ernest Gobin effective 12/2/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved tax refunds for Jared ($72.12) and Christopher Ferguson ($73.04) (unanimous)
• Moved BOS into executive session (unanimous) and exited at 10:16 p.m.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss new business regarding open space at 0 Ference Rd. The body will also review old business including the Langhammer Trail Bridge and a spring program with the library.

• 0 Ference Rd Open Space
• Langhammer Trail Bridge
• Spring Program with Library
• Trash Cleanup Nov 8

The commission approved the draft letter to the Zoning & Economic Office, property owner, and town attorney to set aside open space on Lot 6 at 0 Ference Rd via deed restriction. It also approved the minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting. The board decided to continue advertising spring and fall trash‑cleanup pickups and to move the pickup time to early afternoon. The December 22, 2025 meeting was cancelled.

• Approved 10/27/2025 minutes (unanimously)
• Decided to continue advertising spring/fall trash cleanups and shift time to early afternoon
• Approved draft open‑space deed‑restriction letter for 0 Ference Rd (unanimously)
• Cancelled the Dec 22, 2025 meeting

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will consider personnel matters concerning candidates for the Library Director position. The board may hold an executive session to evaluate candidates and discuss employment terms, and may take open‑session action to select a candidate and approve those terms.

• Executive session (possible) to discuss evaluation of Library Director candidates and employment terms
• Open session (possible) to select a Library Director candidate and approve employment terms

The board could not hold an official meeting because a quorum was not present. As a result, no actions were taken on the Library Director selection or any other matters. The meeting adjourned after an informal discussion.

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance will hold nominations and elections for Chair and Clerk. Members will review the 2026 regular meeting schedule, the budget calendar draft, and the final draft of the 23-24 Annual Report.

• Nominations and election of Chair and Clerk
• Discussion and possible action on 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule
• Review of Budget Calendar Draft
• Review of final draft of the 23-24 Annual Report

The Board of Finance elected Christina Davis as Chairman and Pamm Summers as Clerk, each by unanimous vote. The minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously, with one member abstaining. The October 9, 2025 minutes were not approved due to insufficient attendance. A motion to submit the 2026 regular meeting schedule to the Town Clerk also passed unanimously.

• Elected Christina Davis as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Pamm Summers as Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved November 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Did not approve October 9, 2025 meeting minutes (insufficient attendance)
• Motion to submit 2026 regular meeting schedule to Town Clerk passed unanimously

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will meet on November 20, 2025. The agenda includes reorganization items such as election of officers and committee assignments, and new business items including a staff resignation, approval of the 2026 meeting schedule, scheduling a Finance, Facilities and Operations Committee meeting, and distribution of the first‑quarter financial report. Public comment periods are provided. The board will also consider the consent agenda to approve minutes from October 16, 2025.

• Election of Board officers (Chair, Vice‑Chair, Secretary)
• Committee assignments for Board members
• Staff resignation
• Approval of 2026 Board of Education meeting schedule
• Distribution of first‑quarter financial report

The board elected its officers: Chonte Fields as Chair (unanimous), Jennifer Leszczynski as Vice‑Chair (unanimous), and Kurt Love as Secretary (6‑1). The board accepted the resignation of maintenance lead Michael Mellady and approved the 2026 meeting schedule, both unanimously. Minutes from the October 16 meeting were also approved unanimously.

• Chonte Fields elected Chair (unanimous)
• Jennifer Leszczynski elected Vice‑Chair (unanimous)
• Kurt Love elected Secretary (6‑1)
• Accepted resignation of Michael Mellady, maintenance lead (unanimous)
• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Board of Education meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Scheduled Finance, Facilities and Operations subcommittee meeting for Nov 24 (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Agriculture Commission

The Agriculture Commission will meet to discuss membership and the meeting schedule. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and general briefings.

• Discussion of commission membership
• Review of meeting schedule

The Ashford Agriculture Commission approved the February and October 2025 minutes (4‑0). It reported that the Board of Selectmen approved three members to full seats, leaving one full seat and three alternate seats vacant. The commission adopted a 2026 meeting schedule for the third Thursday of each month (4‑0). The meeting was then adjourned (4‑0).

• Approved Feb & Oct 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Adopted 2026 meeting schedule: 1‑15, 2‑19, 3‑19, 4‑16, 5‑21, 6‑18, 7‑16, 8‑20, 9‑17, 10‑15, 11‑19, 12‑17 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting on November 19. The agenda includes a possible executive session to interview and discuss applicants for the Library Director position. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as a call to order and adjournment.

• Possible executive session to interview and discuss Library Director applicants

The Library Board voted unanimously to go into executive session at 7:03 PM to interview and discuss applicants for the Library Director position. After the interview, the Board voted unanimously to leave the executive session and adjourn the meeting at 7:55 PM. No other actions were taken.

• Entered executive session to interview Library Director applicants (unanimous)
• Left executive session and adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will convene a special meeting to consider holding an executive session. In that session, trustees may interview and discuss candidates for the Library Director position. No other agenda items are listed.

• Possible executive session to interview Library Director applicants

The Library Board voted unanimously to enter an executive session to interview and discuss candidates for the Library Director position. After the interview session, the board voted unanimously to leave the executive session and adjourn the meeting at 3:15 p.m. No other actions were taken.

• Entered executive session to interview Library Director applicants (unanimous)
• Left executive session and adjourned meeting at 3:15 p.m. (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025, was cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for December 17, 2025.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to review the FY 25/26 financial report and the status of its revolving fund. Commission members will receive program updates for basketball, yoga, and summer camp, and will evaluate recent events such as the Carol Sing and summer concerts. They will also discuss proposals for the FY 26/27 budget and examine projected fiscal responsibilities for the upcoming year.

• Review Financial Report FY 25/26
• Review of Revolving Fund
• Program Updates – Basketball, Yoga, Summer Camp
• Program Evaluations – Carol Sing, Summer Concerts
• Proposals for FY 26/27 Budget Submission

The commission presented several FY 2026/27 budget change proposals but did not vote on them. Leslie Bizilj motioned to adjourn, Amanda Holden seconded, and the motion carried unanimously. Dave and Noah were assigned to discuss and draft the annual report.

• Motion to adjourn carried unanimously
• Dave and Noah tasked to draft the annual report

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will convene a special meeting to consider a possible executive session. In that session, trustees may interview and discuss candidates for the Library Director position. No other agenda items are listed.

• Possible executive session to interview Library Director applicants

The Board voted unanimously to enter an executive session at 10:02 a.m. to interview and discuss candidates for the Library Director position. After the interview, the Board voted unanimously to leave the executive session and adjourn the meeting at 10:40 a.m.

• Entered executive session to interview director applicants (unanimous)
• Exited executive session and adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will hold a possible executive session to interview applicants for the Library Director role. No other agenda items are listed beyond standard procedural matters.

• Executive session to interview Library Director applicants

The Library Board voted unanimously to go into executive session to interview and discuss applicants for the Library Director position. After the interview, the board unanimously voted to leave the executive session and adjourn the meeting at 2:40 PM.

• Entered executive session to interview Library Director applicants (unanimous)
• Left executive session and adjourned meeting at 2:40 PM (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen will consider rescinding a prior motion and appoint Daniel Beltran to a four‑year term as Tax Collector effective Dec. 2, 2025. They will also set dates for the town's winter pre‑holiday closures, approve tax refunds, and plan agenda items for future meetings.

• Appointment of Daniel Beltran as Tax Collector for a four‑year term, effective Dec. 2, 2025
• Set dates for winter pre‑holiday town closings: Thanksgiving (Nov 27, 2025), Christmas (Dec 25, 2025), New Year’s Day (Jan 1, 2026)
• Approval of tax refunds
• Determine agenda items for upcoming Board of Selectmen meetings
• Adjournment of the meeting

The Board accepted the minutes of the 10/31/2025 special meeting and rescinded a prior motion related to the Tax Collector appointment. They then appointed Daniel Beltran as Tax Collector for a four-year term starting Dec 2, 2025. The Board also set town‑office holiday closures for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year, all unanimously.

• Accepted minutes of 10/31/2025 Special Meeting (unanimously)
• Rescinded prior motion on Tax Collector appointment (unanimously)
• Appointed Daniel Beltran as Tax Collector, four‑year term effective Dec 2, 2025 (unanimously)
• Closed town offices for Thanksgiving holiday, Nov 26–Dec 1, 2025 (unanimously)
• Closed town offices for Christmas holiday, Dec 24–30, 2025 (unanimously)
• Closed town offices for New Year holiday, Dec 31, 2025–Jan 5, 2026 (unanimously)

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting to interview and discuss applicants for the Library Director position. The session is scheduled for Monday, November 17, at 7:00 P.M. at the Babcock Library on Pompey Hollow Road.

• Interviews for Library Director position
• Discussion of Library Director applicants
• Special meeting at Babcock Library

The board did not achieve a quorum, so no formal meeting could be held. Members present held an informal discussion and interviewed a library director candidate, but no actions or votes were recorded. The meeting adjourned without any decisions.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hold a regular meeting on November 13, 2025. The agenda includes a presentation of the town's budget overview and trends by the board, followed by a public input session. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation of budget overview and trends by BOF
• Public input session

The Ashford Board of Finance held a hybrid meeting on November 13, 2025, presented a budget overview and fielded public input. No substantive approvals, denials, or tablings were recorded. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which was approved unanimously at 8:15 p.m.

• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously (8:15 p.m.)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen’s Transfer Station Committee will review progress on several waste‑management ordinance changes, including defining bulky waste, monitoring compliance, and locating an oil/antifreeze pad and book shed. The committee will also discuss a proposed development of the grassy slope between the office known as the “Shack” and the waste containers. Public comments will be heard, and the meeting will conclude with standard procedural items.

• Construct bulky waste definition to meet ordinance requirements
• Develop plan for monitoring compliance of ordinance changes
• Review status of oil/antifreeze permanent pad location
• Review swap and book shed changes
• Discuss development of grassy slope between the office (“Shack”) and waste containers

The Transfer Station Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 10 meeting. The committee agreed to use punch cards that limit bulky‑waste deposits to three cubic yards per week. No other items were decided; remaining topics were postponed to future meetings.

• Approved October 10 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to use punch cards limiting bulky waste to 3 cubic yards per week
• Motion to adjourn was made and seconded

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes, a financial report, and three policies. The board will also approve the 2026 meeting schedule and receive updates on senior housing and a moderate rehab project.

• Approval of October 14, 2025 minutes
• Approval of Conflict of Interest, Procurement, and Mandated Reporter policies
• Approval of 2026 Board of Commission Meeting Schedule
• Moderate Rehab Project update
• Ashford Housing Development newsletter release

The Housing Authority approved the minutes from the October 14 meeting with two votes in favor and one abstention. The board also approved the revised Procurement Policy unanimously. Finally, the 2026 meeting schedule was adopted unanimously, moving the regular meeting time to 6:00 p.m.

• Approved October 14 meeting minutes (2-0-1)
• Approved updated Procurement Policy (all in favor)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (all in favor)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a special permit (PZ-25-5) for a cluster subdivision at 0 Ference Rd. It will also consider an application (PZ-25-4) for a 6‑lot open‑space subdivision at the same address and review a draft POCD. Additional agenda items include approving the October 14, 2025 minutes and paying a $302.88 bill to The Chronicle.

• Public Hearing – Special Permit (PZ-25-5) for cluster subdivision at 0 Ference Rd (Owner S. Krukoff)
• Commission Business – Application (PZ-25-4) for 6‑lot open‑space subdivision at 0 Ference Rd (Owner S. Krukoff)
• Review of Draft POCD
• Bill – The Chronicle: $302.88
• Approval of October 14, 2025 meeting minutes

The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve the Special Permit (PZ-25-5) for a cluster subdivision at 0 Ference Rd, subject to seven conditions. It also accepted the 6‑lot open‑space subdivision application (PZ-25-4) and closed the public hearing on the cluster proposal. Earlier motions to approve the October 14 minutes and to defer officer‑election discussion were also passed unanimously.

• Approved Special Permit PZ-25-5 for cluster subdivision at 0 Ference Rd (unanimous)
• Accepted 6‑lot Open Space Subdivision PZ-25-4 at 0 Ference Rd (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for PZ-25-5 (unanimous)
• Moved agenda item B before item A (unanimous)
• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous, 2 abstentions)
• Deferred election of officers to next meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review current and future programs and conduct a fiscal review. Members will discuss improvements to Ashford Memorial Fields and address vandalism and security at Ashford Memorial Park.

• Review of current and future programs
• Fiscal review
• Improvements to Ashford Memorial Fields
• Security and vandalism at Ashford Memorial Park
• Notice of special budget review meeting for FY 26/27 on November 18th

The commission voted unanimously to approve the October meeting minutes. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission will review the full draft of the POCD. Commissioners will discuss any edits to the draft and outline next steps for the document. The meeting will also set the date for the next commission session.

• Review full Draft of POCD
• Discuss edits to full Draft
• Discussion of Next Steps
• Set next meeting date

Board of Education (ABOE)

The November 6, 2025, regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Education has been cancelled. The agenda includes the board's goals for curriculum, finance, culture, community relations, and facilities.

• Meeting cancelled
• Curriculum goals for pre-school and K-8
• Finance and budget goals
• Facilities and sustainability goals
• Community relations goals

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will consider a permit for a septic system repair and discuss drawdown permitting for the Lake Chaffee Association. The body will also elect officers and set 2026 meeting dates.

• Permit 25-15: Septic System Repair at 38 Ashford Lake Dr.
• Lake Chaffee Association drawdown permitting discussion
• Agent approval for Permit 24-14: foundation drain modification at 58 Ashford Lake Dr.
• Site visits for 314 Perry Hill Rd, 38 Ashford Lake Dr, 9 Lakesside Dr, and Seckar Rd

The Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission approved Permit 25-15 for a septic system repair at 38 Ashford Lake Road. The commission also elected Cheryl Chase as Chair and Richard Zulick as Vice‑Chair. It agreed that the Lake Chaffee Improvement Association will submit an application to have its drawdown classified as a non‑regulated activity at the June meeting. The commission will provide a guideline list of regulated and non‑regulated lake uses.

• Approved Permit 25-15 septic system repair at 38 Ashford Lake Rd (unanimously)
• Elected Cheryl Chase as Chair and Richard Zulick as Vice‑Chair (unanimously)
• Agreed LCIA will submit drawdown non‑regulated activity request at June IWWC meeting (unanimously)
• Decided to send guideline lists of regulated and non‑regulated lake uses (unanimously)
• Adopted schedule for 2026 meetings (presented, no vote recorded)
• Approved Agent Permit 24-14 modification request for foundation drain at 58 Ashford Lake Dr (unanimously)
• Moved to adjourn the meeting (unanimously)

Commission on Aging

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items are listed.

The commission approved the October meeting minutes. Members agreed to host a series of Alzheimer’s presentations in the spring of 2026, with possible dates of April 17 or May 8. The meeting was adjourned at 10:37 am.

• Approved October minutes (motion by Catherine Sampson, seconded by Charlene Armitage)
• Agreed to host Alzheimer’s presentations in Spring 2026 (dates proposed: April 17, May 8)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:37 am (motion by Catherine Sampson, seconded by Chris Rae)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Ashford Our Town Our Future committee will meet virtually to discuss potential future projects, update the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD), and outline next steps for the group.

• Review of potential future projects
• POCD update
• Discussion of potential future strategic planning process
• Project updates
• New member recruitment

The committee approved the October 6, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned. No other actions were formally decided.

• Approved October 6, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for November 3, 2025, has been cancelled.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and act on driveway permit procedures, fees, and bonding. The meeting includes decisions on 2025 grand list AVFD tax abatements and various board and commission appointments. Status updates are scheduled for the Ashford School roof and solar projects.

• Driveway permit procedures, fees, and bonding
• 2025 grand list AVFD tax abatements
• ASCO donation agreement
• Ashford School Roof Replacement and solar project status
• Appointments for Economic Development, Agriculture, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Planning & Zoning

The Selectmen unanimously accepted the minutes from the October 6 meeting. They approved the 2025 Grand List tax abatements for qualifying Ashford Volunteer Fire Department members. The board also approved six tax refunds to Shannon and Maximillian Smith, a refund to Ari Fleet LT LTD, and appointed Daniel Beltrane as Tax Collector for a four‑year term. Appointments were made to the Agriculture Commission for Joe Murphy and Bethany Knowlton.

• Accepted October 6 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Grand List tax abatements for AVFD members (unanimous)
• Approved six tax refunds to Shannon and Maximillian Smith (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund to Ari Fleet LT LTD (unanimous)
• Appointed Joe Murphy to Agriculture Commission regular seat #1 (unanimous)
• Appointed Bethany Knowlton to Agriculture Commission regular seat #2 (unanimous)
• Appointed Daniel Beltrane as Tax Collector for four‑year term (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a special meeting to review a full draft of the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) prepared by Tyche. The body will discuss edits and next steps for the project.

• Review of full draft POCD by Tyche
• Discussion of edits to full draft
• Discussion of next steps

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will meet to conduct regular business and review reports. The board will enter an executive session to evaluate candidates for the Library Director position.

• Executive session to review applicants for the Library Director position

The board unanimously approved the minutes from September 23 and October 8, 2025. It then entered an executive session to review applicants for the library director position and exited that session later the same morning. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 11:07 a.m.

• Approved minutes from 9/23/2025 and 10/08/2025 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to review library director applicants (unanimous)
• Left executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:07 a.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss new and old business. Key items include the Langhammer Trail Bridge and upcoming community events.

• Langhammer Trail Bridge
• Indoor Farmers Market
• Trash Cleanup on Nov 8
• Fall Program with Library
• Appointment of new member

The commission approved the October 25 minutes and appointed Angela Burns to serve on the commission through November 18, 2025. A straw poll unanimously endorsed Joe Hendrick as the next chair, replacing Loretta Wrobel. The farmer’s market will move indoors to Knowlton Memorial Hall starting November 9, 2025, and a trash‑cleanup event is set for November 8 with advertising plans assigned. The 2026 meeting schedule was circulated and accepted without objection.

• Approved 8-25-25 minutes (unanimous)
• Angela Burns appointed to commission (term ends 11/18/2025)
• Joe Hendrick unanimously elected chair
• Farmer’s Market moved indoors to Knowlton Memorial Hall starting Nov 9, 2025
• Trash cleanup scheduled for Sat Nov 8 (rain date Sun Nov 9); advertising tasks assigned
• Celebration of Ashford event planned for early spring 2026 with Knowlton Hall reservation priority
• Langhammer Trail Bridge repair identified; cost estimate requested
• 2026 meeting schedule accepted (no objections)

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance regular meeting scheduled for October 23, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this time. The next regular meeting is set for November 13, 2025 at Town Hall at 7 p.m.

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will review its budget expenditures. It will receive tourism updates, including the ERTD grant and video script status. The commission will discuss upcoming events, membership matters, and the Business of the Year selection process. Public input will be heard before adjournment.

• Review and approve budget expenditure report
• Tourism updates: ERTD grant and video script review
• Discussion of upcoming events such as Holiday Artists Market and Winter Farmers Market Business Fair
• Consideration of Northeastern CT Chamber membership and Advance CT session at NECCOG
• Business of the Year selection process

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will review the Family Day and Halloween functions and conduct a fiscal review. Members will discuss security at Ashford Memorial Park due to vandalism and the repair of the concession stand and pavilion.

• Concession Stand and Pavilion Repair
• Security in Ashford Memorial Park regarding vandalism
• Family Day review
• Halloween Function review

The commission voted to approve the September meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for October 20, 2025, has been cancelled.

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will ratify a successor agreement with the Ashford Education Association and review a new policy series regarding Family and Medical Leave.

• Ratification of successor agreement with Ashford Education Association (07/01/2026 – 06/30/2029)
• First reading of Policy Series 4000: FMLA
• Approval of September 2025 Board of Education minutes

The Board approved the consent agenda, including the minutes from September 4 and September 11, 2025. It ratified the successor agreement with the Ashford Education Association for the period July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029. The Board also cancelled the November 6, 2025 meeting due to quorum concerns and adjourned the session at 8:00 p.m.

• Approved consent agenda, including minutes of 09/04/2025 and 09/11/2025 (unanimous)
• Ratified successor agreement with Ashford Education Association for 07/01/2026‑06/30/2029 (unanimous)
• Cancelled 11/6/2025 meeting due to quorum concerns (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Ashford Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting on October 14, 2025, to discuss a 6-lot open space subdivision and a special permit application for a cluster subdivision on Ference Road. The meeting will be held online via Zoom.

• Approval of September 8, 2025 minutes
• Public hearing
• PZ-25-4: 6-lot Open Space Subdivision on 0 Ference Rd
• PZ-25-5: Special Permit for Cluster Subdivision on 0 Ference Rd
• Correspondence: Notice of Appeal to Superior Court

The commission approved the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. They accepted the application for a six‑lot open‑space subdivision on 0 Ference Rd with a unanimous vote. A motion was made to receive a special‑permit application for a cluster subdivision at the same location; the outcome was not recorded. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:16 p.m.

• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted 6‑lot Open Space Subdivision application on 0 Ference Rd (unanimous)
• Motion to receive Special Permit application for Cluster Subdivision at 0 Ference Rd (motion moved; outcome not recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Chronicle bill $123.66 recorded as paid on 9/9/2025

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will review financial reports for September and Quarter 1. The board will discuss a new website and provide an update on a Moderate Rehab Project application.

• Update on Moderate Rehab Project application
• Review of September financial report and Quarter 1 financial statement
• Discussion of new website for Ashford Housing Development
• Motion to change meeting time to 6:00 pm

The board approved the September 9, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. It also voted to move the regular monthly meeting time to 6:00 pm permanently, effective immediately, with all members in favor. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Changed monthly meeting time to 6:00 pm permanently (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission will conduct its ongoing review of the Planning and Development Code (POCD) draft sections and the related maps and figures. The agenda also includes routine items such as call to order, setting the next meeting date, and adjournment. No new decisions or proposals are listed for this meeting.

• Ongoing review of POCD draft sections
• Ongoing review of POCD maps and figures
• Call to Order
• Scheduling of next meeting date
• Adjournment

The commission noted that Ashford Lake was mislabeled as Lake Chaffee on Figure A & Figure 1, and that Figure 12's legend lists “Surface Water” though no water bodies appear. Members said they will inform Mike about these items, and other maps were considered acceptable. No formal action or vote was taken.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will approve the September 25, 2025 meeting minutes and hear a Selectwoman’s update. It will discuss possible actions on year‑end transfers and receive an update on the 2023‑24 annual report. The meeting is scheduled as a hybrid session at Town Hall and via Zoom.

• Approve minutes from the September 25, 2025 regular meeting
• Selectwoman’s update (discussion)
• Discussion and possible action regarding year‑end transfers
• Update on the 2023‑24 annual report

The Board approved the September 25, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It then accepted the fiscal year‑end transfers totaling $77,878.18 to close overspent accounts and balance the budget, also unanimously. The Public Works repaving project was reported complete and under budget, and the town audit is scheduled for October 20‑21.

• Approve September 25, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accept FY 2025 year‑end transfers totaling $77,878.18 (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Agriculture Commission

The Ashford Agriculture Commission will hear public comments and review the unfinished Right to Farm Ordinance. The meeting will also consider new commission membership and set future meeting dates. A chairman’s briefing and round‑table discussion are also on the agenda.

• Discussion of Right to Farm Ordinance (unfinished business)
• Consideration of new commission membership
• Review and adoption of meeting schedule
• Public comments hearing
• Chairman's briefing

Board of Selectmen

The Transfer Station Committee will meet to consider moving waste collection containers and other improvements at the Ashford Transfer Station. Members will also discuss drafting a report for the Board of Selectmen. The agenda includes approval of the August 27, 2025 minutes and a First Selectwoman’s update.

• Walk Transfer Station to discuss potential changes of waste collection container locations and other improvements
• Discuss drafting a report to the Board of Selectmen
• Approval of minutes of the August 27, 2025 meeting
• First Selectwoman’s update
• Old Business: update of stickers, paving, items from past discussions

The Board of Selectmen deferred approval of the August 27, 2025 minutes to the next meeting. Stickers will be made available on October 11. Keith Lipker was assigned to draft the Transfer Station report for the Board. The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

• Deferred approval of August 27, 2025 minutes
• Stickers to be available October 11
• Keith Lipker assigned to draft Transfer Station report
• Motion to adjourn adopted

Library Board of Trustees

The Babcock Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve policies for collection development and maintenance. The board will also discuss the timelines and procedures for hiring a new Library Director.

• Approval of Collection Development and Maintenance Policies
• Discussion of hiring procedures and timelines for a new Library Director

The Library Board approved the Request for Reconsideration of Materials, Library Material Review and Reconsideration, Collection Development and Maintenance, Library Display, and Library Program policies by unanimous vote. The board also agreed to schedule candidate interviews for the new Library Director after the November election. The meeting was adjourned at 10:33 a.m. by unanimous consent.

• Approved five library policies (unanimous)
• Board agreed to schedule director candidate interviews after November election
• Adjourned meeting at 10:33 a.m. (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting set for October 8, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this time. A special meeting is tentatively planned for October 30, 2025, pending confirmation.

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will meet on October 7, 2024 in Ashford Town Office. The agenda includes reviewing an old septic system repair at 77 Lake View Drive, discussing a new 6‑lot subdivision permit (Permit 25‑14) on Krukoff, Ference and Hnath Roads, and a Lake Chaffee Association drawdown and permitting discussion. The commission will also receive an agent report on a site visit to Scout Camp at 229‑231 Ashford Center Road. Public comment and routine reports will also be presented.

• Septic system repair with curtain drain at 77 Lake View Drive
• Permit 25‑14 for a 6‑lot subdivision on Krukoff, Ference and Hnath Roads (12‑C‑7)
• Lake Chaffee Association drawdown and permitting discussion
• Scout Camp site visit at 229‑231 Ashford Center Road
• Approval of minutes from the September 2, 2025 regular meeting

The commission approved the corrected minutes from the September 2, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. The commission unanimously approved the application received August 1, 2025 for the septic system repair with curtain drain at 77 Lake View Drive. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m. after a unanimous motion to adjourn.

• Approved September 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 77 Lake View Drive septic system repair application (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commission on Aging

The Ashford Commission on Aging will convene at 10 a.m. on October 6, 2025. The agenda includes routine items such as the Secretary’s Report, correspondence, and the Agent for the Elderly Report, as well as old and new business and a public hearing segment. No specific actions or contracts are listed in the agenda.

• Secretary’s Report
• Correspondence
• Agent for the Elderly Report
• Old Business
• New Business

The commission approved the meeting minutes. It also approved the annual report presented by Esther. The meeting was adjourned at 11:13 a.m.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved annual report (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:13 a.m. (motion passed)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Ashford Our Town Our Future committee will meet virtually to discuss potential future projects, update the Plan of Conservation and Development, and consider a new strategic planning process. The meeting will include public input and member recruitment.

• Discussion of potential future projects
• POCD update
• Discussion of potential future strategic planning process
• Project updates
• New member recruitment

The Core Committee approved the July 7, 2025 minutes with a 3‑0‑1 vote (one abstention). Members discussed a possible community foundation and volunteer‑recognition program but took no formal action. An update noted the POCD sub‑committee has completed its work and awaits further review. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 pm.

• Approved July 7, 2025 minutes (vote 3-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Board of Selectmen

The Ashford Board of Selectmen will review updates on the school roof replacement and solar projects, and consider rescinding funding for lower‑level parking‑lot lighting. New business includes discussion and action on state bill HB5002, driveway permit procedures, and a preliminary talk on Ashford Academy repairs. The board will also handle several commission appointments and approve tax refunds.

• Ashford School Roof Replacement project status
• Ashford School solar project status
• Rescind funding motion for lower level parking lot lighting
• Discuss and act on consideration of HB5002
• Discuss and act on driveway permit procedures, fees and bonding

The Selectmen unanimously accepted the minutes from May 19, August 11 and August 27, 2025. They rescinded the earlier $7,000 allocation for Town Office lower‑level parking‑lot lights and approved a new allocation not to exceed $10,000. The board also reappointed members to several commissions, appointed new members, and approved 17 tax refunds.

• Accepted minutes of 5/19/2025 and 8/11/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 8/27/2025 (passed)
• Rescinded $7,000 allocation for TOB lower‑level parking‑lot lights (unanimous)
• Approved up to $10,000 allocation for TOB lower‑level parking‑lot lights (unanimous)
• Reappointed four members to the Commission on Aging through 6/30/2027 (unanimous)
• Appointed Angela Burns as alternate member of the Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Joe Henrik, Pete Piecyk, and Meghan Macrae as full members of Inland Wetlands & Watercourses (unanimous)
• Approved 17 tax refunds as submitted by the Tax Collector (unanimous)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Education scheduled for October 2, 2025, has been cancelled.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will hold a regular meeting to review several updates and topics. Items include a Selectwoman’s update, a discussion of a public feedback session on budget priorities, and possible actions on contract negotiations between the Board of Education and the teachers’ union. The board will also discuss year‑end transfers, excess education funds for the fiscal year ending June 30 2025, and updates to the 23‑24 Annual Report and its dedication.

• Discussion of public feedback session on budget priorities
• Discussion of upcoming contract negotiations between Board of Education and teachers’ union
• Discussion of year‑end transfers
• Update on excess education funds for fiscal year ended June 30 2025
• Update on the 23‑24 Annual Report and its dedication

The Board of Finance unanimously approved the June 26 and July 24 meeting minutes, with one member abstaining on each. Members voted unanimously to hold a special public meeting on November 13 to gather input on budget priorities, followed by a regular meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:32 p.m.

• Approve June 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Mr. Rhodes abstained)
• Approve July 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Ms. Austin abstained)
• Hold special public budget input meeting on Nov 13 (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The meeting scheduled for September 24, 2025, has been canceled. It was rescheduled for Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will approve the minutes from the December 20, 2023 meeting and receive a report on budget expenditures. Commissioners will hear updates on the PZC‑I‑84 zoning plan, tourism initiatives, and the Cadle Rock grant and steering committee. The agenda also includes announcements about upcoming business events, chamber membership, and new member recruitment.

• Approval of minutes – December 20, 2023
• Budget – report of expenditures
• PZC‑I‑84 zoning update (information only)
• Tourism updates and review of the ERTD grant
• Cadle Rock grant & steering committee discussion

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals will approve the minutes from its April 1, 2025 meeting, hear appeals concerning the 2024 Grand List motor vehicle assessments (by appointment only), and set the annual meeting dates for 2026 to be filed with the town clerk. The meeting also includes any other business of the Board.

• Approve minutes from 4/1/2025 meeting
• Hear appeals for 2024 Grand List motor vehicles (by appointment only)
• Set annual meeting dates for 2026 to be filed with the town clerk
• Any other Board of Assessment Appeals business

The Board of Assessment Appeals unanimously approved the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting. Both appeals heard were resolved with no changes: one appellant did not appear and the other’s vehicle assessment remained unchanged. The board took no action on setting the 2026 annual meeting dates. No other business was discussed.

• Approved minutes from 4/1/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Lovell George L III appeal resulted in no show (no change)
• Kelly Michael appeal resulted in no change to vehicle value
• No action taken on setting 2026 annual meeting dates

Library Board of Trustees

The board will approve the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting and hear the treasurer’s and library director’s reports. It will consider the Book Challenges Policy and hold an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Approve Minutes – August 26, 2025
• Treasurer’s Report
• Library Director’s Report
• Book Challenges Policy
• Executive Session to discuss Personnel Matters

The Library Board approved a motion to enter an executive session at 10:02 a.m. to discuss personnel matters. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from the August 26 meeting, accepted the Treasurer’s report, and adjourned the meeting at 11:11 a.m.

• Approved entry into executive session to discuss personnel matters (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 26 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:11 a.m. (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission will review its budget report of expenditures. It will receive updates on tourism grants, zoning news, and upcoming community events. The commission will also discuss new member recruitment and partnership opportunities.

• Budget – Report of expenditures
• PZC‑I‑84 zoning update (announcement)
• ERTD grant – review video script and videography
• Cadle Rock – grant and steering committee discussion
• Northeastern CT Chamber membership

Economic Development Commission

The Ashford Economic Development Commission special meeting scheduled for September 23, 2025 was cancelled by M. Chatey on September 19, 2025. Because the meeting was cancelled, no agenda items were discussed or decided. The agenda had listed items such as a budget expenditure report, zoning updates, tourism grant reviews, and membership matters that will be addressed at a future meeting.

• Budget – report of expenditures
• PZC‑I‑84 zoning update
• Cadle Rock – grant and steering committee discussion
• Northeastern CT Chamber membership
• Tourism updates – ERTD grant review

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission's regular meeting scheduled for September 22, 2025 was canceled because the agenda was received late. An informal gathering will be held that evening. The next official meeting is scheduled for October 27, 2025 at the regular time.

The commission decided to relocate the Farmers Market to Knowlton Hall, running 10 a.m.–1 p.m. starting November 9, 2025, with the winter market continuing through April 2026. Trash collection day was scheduled for November 8, 2025, from 9 a.m.–12 p.m., with a rain‑date on November 9. Joe Hendricks volunteered to become chair of the Conservation Commission when Loretta Wrobel’s term ends in November. Christine and Stephanie were assigned to develop the fall water‑focused program with the Babcock Library.

• Relocated Farmers Market to Knowlton Hall (10 a.m.–1 p.m., starting Nov 9)
• Set winter market period through April 2026
• Scheduled Trash Day for Nov 8, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., rain‑date Nov 9
• Joe Hendricks volunteered to become CC chair after Loretta’s term
• Assigned Christine and Stephanie to plan fall water program

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will review section updates submitted by boards, commissions, and Tyche. It will then discuss next steps for the planning process. The meeting will also set the date for the next commission meeting.

• Review of Section Updates provided by Boards & Commissions
• Review of Updates by Tyche to submitted sections
• Discussion of Next Steps
• Set Next Meeting Date

The Planning & Zoning Commission subcommittee met on September 18, 2025, and noted the need to add information about PRDDs approved earlier that month. Members considered whether the commission could write a regulation to stop junk yards and to exclude some businesses from the town center. They discussed adding language to define allowable business types in Village Districts and to prevent special permits for used‑car lots, but no action was approved or voted on.

Board of Selectmen

The regular Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled for September 15, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were presented for discussion or decision.

Board of Finance

The Ashford Board of Finance will approve June 26 and July 24, 2025 meeting minutes, hear public comment, and consider several new‑business topics. Items include a Selectwoman’s update, a discussion of a public feedback session on budget priorities, observation of upcoming contract negotiations between the Board of Education and the teachers’ union, an update on excess education funds for the fiscal year ending June 30 2025, and updates and possible actions related to the 2023‑24 Annual Report. No final actions are scheduled at this meeting.

• Approve Regular Meeting Minutes – June 26, 2025
• Approve Regular Meeting Minutes – July 24, 2025
• Discussion of public feedback session on budget priorities
• Observation of upcoming contract negotiations between Board of Education and teachers’ union
• Update on excess education funds for fiscal year ended June 30, 2025

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education will review its bylaws under Policy Series 9000. The meeting includes public comment periods before and after the review. No other agenda items are listed.

• Review of Ashford Board of Education Bylaws – Policy Series 9000

The Ashford Board of Education reviewed its current bylaws and discussed future policy changes, which will be presented and voted on at later meetings. A motion to adjourn the special meeting was made by Kim Kouatly, seconded by Amanda Cantrell, and carried unanimously.

• Motion to adjourn the special meeting carried unanimously

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen’s Transfer Station Committee will continue its discussion on handling bulky waste and consider a possible redesign of the town’s Transfer Station to improve traffic flow. The committee will also outline next steps for the project. No final decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Continuation of discussion on bulky waste handling and Transfer Station traffic flow redesign
• Outline of next steps for the Transfer Station project

The Transfer Station Committee approved the minutes from August 27, 2025. It agreed to a 3 cubic‑yard per week limit on bulky waste, using punch cards and signage for tracking. The oil and antifreeze deposit station will be moved to the lower level, and the cardboard collection container will be relocated to the former oil/antifreeze site. Volunteers are needed for issuing new stickers starting October 4.

• Approved minutes of August 27, 2025 (motion passed)
• Agreed to 3 cubic‑yard weekly bulky waste limit with punch‑card tracking
• Agreed to move oil and antifreeze deposit station to lower level (location TBD)
• Agreed to relocate cardboard collection container to former oil/antifreeze site
• Agreed to use excavator to compact cardboard and shut down existing compactor
• Identified need for volunteers to issue new stickers beginning October 4

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Ashford Zoning Board of Appeals regular meeting on September 10, 2025 was cancelled. No new business or agenda items were presented. The board will reconvene at its next scheduled meeting on October 8, 2025.

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will approve the August 12, 2025 meeting minutes and hear the Director's monthly update. A budget report will present the August financial figures. The board will note that there is no update on the Ashford Housing Development and that a Conn‑App has been submitted for the Moderate Rehab Project. A training session on commissioner roles and responsibilities will be discussed, followed by a public access period.

• Approval of Minutes for August 12, 2025
• Budget Report: August financial report
• Ashford Housing Development: No update
• Moderate Rehab Project: Conn‑App submitted
• Business: Training‑Commissioner Roles and Responsibilities

The board unanimously approved the June 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to adjourn was also passed unanimously, ending the session at 7:25 pm. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved June 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:25 pm (all in favor)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing on application PZ‑25‑3 for a special permit to operate a motor‑vehicle sales and service business at 221 Pompey Hollow Rd. Commissioners noted missing traffic analysis, drainage details, and fire‑department input, and said the waiver could be denied if required information is not provided. No vote was taken; the commission will decide after additional information is received.

• Held public hearing on PZ‑25‑3 special permit (no vote taken)
• Identified need for traffic study and additional information before approval (pending)
• Stated waiver may be denied if required information is not submitted (pending)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission unanimously approved the August meeting minutes. The commission approved the RecDesk recreation software, with funding to be drawn from the town’s general fund. Upcoming events were scheduled, including Family Day on September 14, a Trunk‑or‑Treat on October 31, a Turkey Trot on November 9, a Christmas bus trip on December 6, and a Carol Sing on December 7. The basketball program fee was increased to $100 with a $5 early‑bird discount, and the planned bus trip to the Big E was cancelled due to low enrollment.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved RecDesk recreation software (funding from general fund)
• Scheduled Family Day for 9/14
• Scheduled Trunk or Treat for 10/31 at library
• Scheduled Turkey Trot for 11/9, 1:00‑3:00
• Scheduled Christmas bus trip for 12/6
• Increased basketball fees to $100 with $5 early‑bird discount
• Cancelled bus trip to the Big E due to low enrollment

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging will meet to review reports from the Secretary and the Agent for the Elderly. The agenda consists of procedural items and general business.

The commission voted to appoint Esther Jagodzinski as its permanent president and Monica Gallegos as temporary secretary. The meeting minutes were approved, and the session was adjourned at 11:11 a.m. No vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

• Appointed Esther Jagodzinski as Permanent President (approved)
• Appointed Monica Gallegos as Temporary Secretary (approved)
• Approved the meeting minutes (approved)
• Adjourned the meeting at 11:11 a.m. (approved)

Board of Education (ABOE)

The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, including the minutes from August 21, 2025. It then ratified the Local 506 SEIU successor collective bargaining agreement that runs until June 30, 2027. The board also unanimously approved the 2025‑2026 medical standing orders for student health care. The meeting was adjourned without further decisions.

• Approved consent agenda minutes (08/21/2025) – unanimous
• Ratified Local 506 SEIU successor agreement ending June 30, 2027 – unanimous
• Approved 2025‑2026 Medical Standing Orders – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission will discuss drainage pipe repairs and a septic system installation. The body will also review agent approvals for residential projects and a lake drawdown.

• 80 Bicknell Rd: Repair and re-establish drainage pipes
• 77 Lake View Drive: Septic system repair with curtain drain
• 483 Turnpike Rd: Single family dwelling agent approval
• 28 Kidder Brook Rd: Well location permit amendment
• 11 Town Line Ext: Single family dwelling agent approval

The commission approved the August 5, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. It also unanimously accepted the permit application for the septic system repair with curtain drain at 77 Lake View Drive. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted 77 Lake View Drive septic system repair permit application (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The regular meeting of the Ashford Board of Selectmen scheduled for September 2, 2025, has been cancelled.

Board of Finance

The August 28, 2025 Board of Finance meeting was cancelled because there were not enough members present to form a quorum. No agenda items were considered, and all items will be moved to the next meeting's agenda.

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously adopted a certified resolution and the applicant certification for the Cadlerock/Wagon Shed property’s Round 22 Brownfield Area‑Wide Revitalization (BAR) Planning Grant. They also approved the appointment of a five‑member advisory/steering committee and named Christine Abikoff as the non‑voting chairman of the BAR grant committee.

• Adopted Certified Resolution for Cadlerock/Wagon Shed BAR grant (unanimous)
• Approved Certification by Applicant for Cadlerock/Wagon Shed BAR grant (unanimous)
• Appointed 5‑member Cadlerock/Wagon Shed advisory/steering committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Christine Abikoff as non‑voting chairman of BAR grant committee (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The meeting scheduled for August 27, 2025, has been postponed. It is rescheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025.

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board approved the June 24, 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were voted on; the board discussed summer and upcoming fall programs, staffing changes, and a draft book‑challenge policy that must be completed by Oct. 1, 2025.

• Approved June 24 minutes (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the August 28, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were decided; the remainder of the agenda consisted of reports and planning discussions for a new chair, a library program, and a fall clean‑up event.

• Approved August 28, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The POCD Subcommittee of the Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting. The body will review draft sections of the Plan of Conservation and Development.

• Review of POCD Draft Sections

The commission reviewed the Governance section revised by Mike D’Amato. They made some changes to his suggestions but concluded that the Housing portion would remain the same. No vote count was recorded.

• Kept Housing section unchanged

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority will meet to discuss the Moderate Rehab Project and the Ashford Housing Development. The board is scheduled to review an agreement with the Town and approve the amended FY26 budget.

• Approval of amended FY26 budget
• Review of agreement with Town
• Status update on Moderate Rehab Project
• Update on Ashford Housing Development

The commission approved the minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting with all members in favor. An amended FY2026 budget, reflecting a lower property‑insurance cost, was also approved unanimously. The board reviewed the ratified town agreement and noted upcoming activities such as a booth at the farmers market and a pending SSHIP application.

• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved amended FY2026 budget (all in favor)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved the minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting, with one member abstaining. A bill for a $325.92 Willimantic Chronicle advertisement was approved. The public hearing on the special permit for motor‑vehicle sales at 221 Pompey Hollow Rd. was continued to the next meeting pending additional information. The text amendment to create a Planned Rural Development District was discussed but no final vote was recorded.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (1 abstention)
• Approved $325.92 bill for Willimantic Chronicle ad

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the Natchaug River Watershed Plan memorandum of understanding and the purchase of RecDesk software. They also reappointed Sherri Soucy as Treasurer through June 30, 2027 and ratified a Shared Responsibilities Agreement with the Ashford Housing Authority. Additional actions included adding two seats to the Clean Energy Task Force and reappointing Mike Gantick to the Economic Development Commission.

• Accepted minutes of Special Meeting 5/6/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of Regular Meeting 6/16/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Natchaug River Watershed Plan MOU (unanimous)
• Approved acquisition of RecDesk software (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sherri Soucy as Treasurer to 6/30/2027 (unanimous)
• Ratified Shared Responsibilities Agreement with Ashford Housing Authority (unanimous)
• Added two member seats to Clean Energy Task Force, total membership now 9 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Mike Gantick to Economic Development Commission to 2/02/2030 (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen’s Transfer Station Committee meeting on August 6, 2025 did not proceed because a quorum was not present. No actions were taken or decisions recorded.

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The commission unanimously approved the July 1, 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously denied the IW‑25‑09 request for 80 Bicknell Rd. to proceed “as of right,” requiring a detailed permit application. The IW‑25‑11 single‑family dwelling project was kept on the agenda for future review. The meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

• Approved July 1, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied IW‑25‑09 80 Bicknell Rd. request as “as of right” (unanimous)
• Kept IW‑25‑11 483 Turnpike Rd. project on agenda for future review
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved the July 2025 meeting minutes. The commission entered an executive session, later exited it, and then adjourned the meeting. It also unanimously authorized Recreation Director Noah King to spend money to attend CRPA training in November and obtain membership.

• Approved July meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter executive session (unanimous)
• Approved motion to exit executive session (unanimous)
• Approved spending for Noah King’s CRPA training (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting after a motion by Christine Acebo and a second by Janet Bellamy. The commission also agreed to recommend that the Board of Selectmen sign the Natchaug Watershed Healthy River Compact, noting its importance for water quality in Ashford. No other actions were taken.

• Approved June 23, 2025 minutes (motion by Christine Acebo, seconded by Janet Bellamy)
• Agreed to recommend Board of Selectmen sign Natchaug Watershed Healthy River Compact

Board of Finance

The board unanimously approved allocating $10,000 from the unassigned fund balance to cover the cost of a new school bus. A motion to approve the June 26, 2025 meeting minutes was withdrawn, so approval will be deferred to the next meeting. The board also unanimously adopted a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:52 p.m.

• Approved $10,000 allocation from unassigned fund for new school bus (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of June 26, 2025 meeting minutes (motion withdrawn)
• Adopted motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Ashford Housing Authority special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025 was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were considered, and no decisions were made or voted on.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission unanimously voted to table the short‑term rental regulations discussion (agenda item 7.C.i) until the August meeting. It also approved adding material for the 221 Pompey Hollow Road application (PZ‑25‑3) to the agenda. Additionally, the public hearing on the Planned Rural Development District (PZ‑25‑2) was continued to the August meeting.

• Tabled Short-Term Rental Regulations discussion (agenda 7.C.i) until August (unanimous)
• Added material for 221 Pompey Hollow Rd. (PZ‑25‑3) to agenda (unanimous)
• Continued Public Hearing on Planned Rural Development District (PZ‑25‑2) to August meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the corrected June meeting minutes unanimously. It added a new agenda item on a recreation management system, but rejected the purchase of the $4,200 Rec‑Desk software after a motion failed. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Added agenda item “Recreation Management System” (unanimous)
• Rejected purchase of Rec‑Desk online registration software (motion failed)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen’s Transfer Station Committee unanimously approved the June 25, 2025 meeting minutes. The committee agreed to order purple stickers with white lettering for the transfer station, with red as a backup if purple is unavailable. They noted bulky‑waste hauling costs of $78,429.20 through May 2025 and discussed a possible weekly limit of 3 cubic yards per user, but decided any limit must be presented to a Town Meeting before implementation.

• Approved June 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to order purple stickers with white lettering; red if purple unavailable
• Noted bulky‑waste hauling cost $78,429.20 through May 2025 (informational)
• Deferred any weekly bulky‑waste limit to a future Town Meeting

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The committee approved the May 5, 2025 minutes with a 3-0-1 vote (Hanink abstaining). The board directed Mike Gantick to reach out to the First Selectwoman for Board of Selectmen input on the town's strategic planning and to share example plans from other communities.

• Approved May 5, 2025 minutes (3-0-1, Hanink abstaining)
• Assigned Mike Gantick to contact First Selectwoman about strategic planning

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The commission unanimously approved the June 3, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved a motion to seek a professional expert if discussions about the 80 Bicknell Rd. project remain unsatisfactory. An agenda item for 400 Nott Highway was added, and the commission unanimously approved the land‑improvement work there as a “right of use.” All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved June 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to consult a professional expert if 80 Bicknell Rd. discussions are unsatisfactory (unanimous)
• Approved addition of agenda item for 400 Nott Highway property (unanimous, Zulick recused)
• Approved right‑of‑use for land‑improvement project at 400 Nott Highway (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance approved the minutes from the May 8 and June 12, 2025 meetings, each passing unanimously with one member abstaining. The board then adjourned the meeting unanimously. No other actions were voted on.

• Approved May 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, Ms. Summers abstained)
• Approved June 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, Ms. Austin abstained)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Transfer Station Committee elected Keith Lipker as its officer by unanimous vote. No other actions, approvals, or denials were taken. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion. The committee discussed current rules and upcoming repaving but made no substantive decisions.

• Elected Keith Lipker as committee officer (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 27 meeting. The board approved the Treasurer’s 2024‑2025 budget report. The board adjourned the meeting at 10:30 a.m.

• Approved May 27 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved 2024/2025 budget report (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Conservation Commission

The commission scheduled a meeting with new director David McCarthy, set a fall cleanup for Pompey Hollow Trail, and noted a senior‑center sustainability garden tour. Joe Hendrick will request to join the commission, and an agenda will be prepared for the July 28 meeting. No formal approvals or votes were recorded.

• Loretta to contact David McCarthy with two possible meeting dates (July 14 or July 16)
• Bill and Stephanie to inspect Tremko trail for an alternative route around a large tree
• Schedule a fall cleanup of Pompey Hollow Trail at Langhammer, pending chain‑saw check with Gwen and JT
• Joe Hendrick to send a letter to the town clerk requesting to join the Conservation Commission
• Loretta to prepare the agenda for the July 28 Conservation Commission meeting
• Public hearing for POCD‑CC portion set for July, with completion deadline Jan 2026
• Tour of senior‑center pollinator and vegetable gardens reported; grant from Sustainable CT noted
• Farmers Market noted as operating since May with Jackie Kulig as market master

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education unanimously approved the evaluation of Superintendent Cindy Ford and the new contract for the Director of Pupil Personnel and the Superintendent’s stipend covering July 1 2025 through June 30 2028. The board also voted to increase the school breakfast price to $1.75 and the lunch price to $3.25. An executive session was held to discuss the contract details, and the next regular meeting was set for July 17 pending a member poll.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes) – carried unanimously
• Approved evaluation of Superintendent Cindy Ford – carried unanimously
• Increased school breakfast price to $1.75 and lunch price to $3.25 – carried unanimously
• Approved Director of Pupil Personnel and Superintendent stipend contract (July 1 2025–June 30 2028) – carried unanimously
• Entered executive session to discuss contract and invited Superintendent – carried unanimously
• Scheduled next regular meeting for July 17, pending poll – decision made

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously approved the appointment of Nora Valentine as the new Tax Collector effective September 1, 2025. They also approved several committee appointments, including Matthew Karosi to the Transfer Station Committee and changes to the Parks and Recreation Commission. An executive session was held to discuss possible litigation and personnel, and the regular July 7 BOS meeting was cancelled.

• Unanimously approved acceptance of the 4/21/2025 minutes
• Unanimously approved acceptance of the 6/2/2025 minutes
• Unanimously appointed Matthew Karosi to the Transfer Station Committee
• Unanimously appointed Steven B. Galinat, Jr. to Parks & Rec Commission (Seat 5) and Neil P. Gordon to Alternate Seat 2
• Unanimously moved the Board into executive session to discuss possible litigation and personnel
• Unanimously added agenda item to discuss and act on appointment of Tax Collector
• Unanimously appointed Nora Valentine as Tax Collector (annual salary $72,639.41)
• Cancelled the regular 7/7/2025 BOS meeting

Board of Finance

The Board postponed approval of the May 8 meeting minutes after the motion was withdrawn. It approved the correct mill rates of 36.377 mills for real and personal property and 32.46 mills for motor vehicles. The Board approved an $80,000 allocation from the unassigned fund balance as the municipal match for the STEAP grant to repave the Transfer Station and Public Works Facility. The motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.

• Postponed approval of May 8, 2025 meeting minutes (motion withdrawn)
• Approved correct mill rates: 36.377 mills (real/personal) and 32.46 mills (vehicles)
• Approved $80,000 allocation from unassigned fund balance as STEAP grant match
• Signed engagement letter with auditor Jason Cote for 2024-2025 audit
• Tentatively scheduled public input session on budget savings for Sep 11, 2025
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Housing Authority

The board approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting with all members in favor. Tenants voted to decline a new $100‑per‑month Spectrum bulk internet and cable contract. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:25 p.m. with unanimous consent.

• Approved April 8, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Tenants declined new $100/month Spectrum bulk contract
• Adjourned meeting at 8:25 p.m. (all in favor)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission approved the May 12, 2025 minutes unanimously. It received the PZ-25-2 text amendment establishing Section 300‑20.2 as a Planned Rural Development District, with no discussion and a unanimous vote. The short‑term rental application checklist was tabled for the next meeting, also unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:42 p.m.

• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Received PZ-25-2 text amendment for Planned Rural Development District (unanimous)
• Tabled short-term rental application checklist to next meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission elected Dave Roston as Chairperson and Amanda Holden as Secretary, with both motions passing unanimously. Officers were added to the commission, also approved unanimously. The part‑time director job description was revised to replace “widening” with “promoting,” and the May 19 minutes were accepted unanimously.

• Added Officers to APRC (unanimous)
• Appointed Dave Roston as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Appointed Amanda Holden as Secretary (unanimous)
• Moved “New Business” to next meeting (unanimous)
• Revised director job description wording (unanimous)
• Accepted May 19 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission met with five members present. They discussed the vision and reviewed photos. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Board of Education (ABOE)

The Ashford Board of Education unanimously approved a certification that all food sold to students will comply with Connecticut Nutrition Standards from July 1 2025 through June 30 2026. It also approved a limited exception allowing non‑standard foods and beverages at after‑school or weekend events that meet specific conditions. Additional actions included accepting staff resignations and retirement, extending a teacher’s leave, and discontinuing the district’s bullying policy in favor of the state‑mandated climate policy.

• Added Healthy Foods Certification to agenda; carried unanimously
• Approved consent agenda (minutes) unanimously
• Accepted resignations of Maureen Sullivan and Thomas Dell unanimously
• Accepted retirement of paraeducator Bonnie Ognan unanimously
• Approved extension of Josie Lamarre’s leave of absence unanimously
• Discontinued Series 5000 Bullying and Safe School Climate policy unanimously
• Certified compliance with Connecticut Nutrition Standards for all student‑sale food items July 1 2025‑June 30 2026 unanimously
• Allowed sale of non‑standard foods/beverages at events meeting set conditions unanimously

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The commission approved the May 6, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It also approved the IW‑25‑05 permit for stump grinding and slope stabilization at 57 Lakeside Dr. unanimously. The IW‑25‑07 septic repair permit for 34 Ashford Lake Dr. was approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 8:03 p.m.

• Approved May 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved IW-25-05, 57 Lakeside Dr. (unanimous)
• Approved IW-25-07, 34 Ashford Lake Dr. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board moved to an Executive Session to discuss potential litigation and personnel issues, passing the motion unanimously. It elevated two alternate members, Dave Roston and Amande Holden, to regular seats on the Parks and Recreation Commission, also unanimously. The Board authorized the First Selectman to accept a quote for installing three lights in the south parking lot, not to exceed $7,000, with unanimous approval.

• Moved to Executive Session to discuss litigation and personnel issues (unanimous)
• Elevated Dave Roston and Amande Holden from alternates to regular members on Parks and Recreation Commission (unanimous)
• Authorized First Selectman to accept a lighting quote up to $7,000 for south parking lot (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission reviewed the introductory material and maps, decided to add the Cadle Rock development to the vision, and assigned follow‑up tasks to Jeff, Mike, and Nora. No formal votes or approvals were recorded.

• Added Cadle Rock development to the vision (no vote recorded)
• Assigned Jeff to deliver written governance notes to Mike
• Assigned Mike to draft a vision statement incorporating Janet and Christine ideas
• Assigned Nora to compare Jeff's education document with her version

Library Board of Trustees

The board approved the April 22 minutes after correcting the date, with a unanimous vote. Treasurer reported that 85% of the 2025 budget has been spent, leaving $34,000 remaining. The board unanimously voted to cancel the scheduled July meeting. State eBook legislation was reported as pending Governor's signature.

• Approved April 22 minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled July library board meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The commission reviewed the Farmers Market status, upcoming Natchaug Watershed meeting schedule, and budget items for invasive‑species work and senior‑housing garden supplies. No formal approvals, votes, or resolutions were recorded. The June meeting is planned for the senior housing community room at 6:30 p.m.

Board of Selectmen

The Board approved the legal notice for the Annual Town Budget Meeting scheduled for 4/22/2025. They reappointed David Roston to an alternate member seat on the Recreation Commission. The Board authorized tax refunds of $48.33 to Honda Lease Trust and $72.74 to Toyota Lease Trust. They also approved renewing the Ashford Memorial Park mowing contract with Greg Peck.

• Approved legal notice for Annual Town Budget Meeting (4/22/2025) – passed
• Reappointed David Roston as alternate member (term expires 4/01/2028) – passed
• Approved tax refunds: Honda Lease Trust $48.33 and Toyota Lease Trust $72.74 – passed
• Approved renewal of Ashford Memorial Park mowing contract to Greg Peck – passed

Board of Education (ABOE)

The board voted to accept a $500 grant from ExxonMobil for STEM education, with the motion made by Jennifer Leszczynski, seconded by Chonte Fields, and carried unanimously. The board also approved the third‑quarter financial report, motion by Chonte Fields, seconded by Kurt Love, carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:27 p.m. after a unanimous motion by Chonte Fields, seconded by Amanda Cantrell.

• Accepted $500 ExxonMobil STEM grant (unanimous)
• Approved 3rd quarter financial report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved a special permit for Westford Hill Distillers to serve alcohol on an outdoor patio and host acoustic live entertainment, with conditions on use and hours. The commission also voted to reduce the acreage requirement for the Planned Rural Development District from 35 to 25 acres. The meeting minutes from April 14, 2025 were approved unanimously, and the session was adjourned after a motion passed with one abstention.

• Approved special permit for Westford Hill Distillers (5-0-1)
• Reduced PRDD acreage requirement to 25 acres (motion passed)
• Approved April 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (passed, 1 abstention)

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance approved the minutes from the April 24 meeting. It then approved a motor vehicle mill rate of 32.46 mills and a real estate and personal property mill rate of 36.377 mills, each by unanimous vote. The meeting also recorded the results of the recent budget referendum and scheduled the next meeting, which is expected to be cancelled.

• Approve April 24, 2025 minutes – motion passed unanimously (1 abstention)
• Approve motor vehicle mill rate of 32.46 mills – motion passed unanimously
• Approve real estate and personal property mill rate of 36.377 mills – motion passed unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – motion approved unanimously

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission unanimously approved the revised Ashford General Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding. It also lifted the Cease and Desist order for 348 Ference Road, received two new wetland applications, and approved a draft letter to 73 Lake View Drive. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Ashford General Maintenance MOU with suggested revisions (unanimous)
• Lifted Cease and Desist order for 348 Ference Road (unanimous)
• Received application IW-25-04 Lakeside Dr. – Grinding of Stumps and Stabilize Slope (unanimous)
• Received application IW-25-07 34 Ashford Lake Dr. – Septic Repair (unanimous)
• Approved final draft letter regarding 73 Lake View Drive to be signed and sent (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 1, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen voted to accept the School Roof Building Committee's recommendation to post the Ashford School solar photovoltaic RFP on the Department of Administrative Services website. The motion was moved by Silver‑Smith, seconded by Falletti, and passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved posting of Ashford School solar RFP on DAS website (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commission on Aging

Esther Jagodzinski was appointed temporary secretary and chair for the meeting. The commission approved the previous meeting’s minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 11:43 AM.

• Appointed Esther Jagodzinski as temporary secretary and chair (motion passed)
• Approved the prior meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting at 11:43 AM (motion passed)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission subcommittee reviewed the introductory material and discussed vision, communication, rural character, and economic development. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded. The commission assigned two follow‑up tasks: Nora Galvin will send the introduction to the subcommittee for review and to add aspirational goals, and Jeff will send Nora the edited education section.

Conservation Commission

The Commission set the outdoor farmers market to begin on Mother’s Day, May 11, and run weekly until the end of October, with all vendor spaces filled. A new grant will fund updates to the 2020 Natchaug Watershed Compact, and the Commission scheduled monthly planning meetings, the next on May 20 at 1 pm. The watershed was added to the Commission’s priorities, and Loretta Wrobel was tasked with following up with the selectmen and preparing the agenda.

• Schedule outdoor farmers market weekly May 11–Oct 31 (set)
• Receive grant to update Natchaug Watershed Compact (funded)
• Plan monthly Natchaug Compact meetings; next May 20 at 1 pm (scheduled)
• Add POCD watershed to Commission priorities (added)
• Assign Loretta Wrobel to follow up with selectmen on next steps (assigned)
• Assign Loretta Wrobel to set up the meeting agenda (assigned)
• Plan to invite JT director to a Commission meeting or office visit (planned)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission subcommittee discussed updates to the executive summary, governance, public safety, and education sections. Members assigned action items, including Christine taking photos, Nora sending a list to Mike, and requesting a Word document for the education section. The next meeting is set for May 1. No formal approvals, votes, or policy decisions were recorded.

Board of Finance

The Board approved the March 27 and April 8 finance meeting minutes. The March 27 minutes were approved with a unanimous motion and one member abstaining; the April 8 minutes were approved unanimously. The Board then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved March 27, 2025 BOF meeting minutes (motion passed unanimously; Mr. Rhodes abstained)
• Approved April 8, 2025 BOF meeting minutes (motion passed unanimously)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion approved unanimously)

Library Board of Trustees

The board approved the minutes from the March 25, 2025 meeting. The trustees also approved the updated Strategic Plan. The meeting was then adjourned. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved updated Strategic Plan (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen unanimously denied the University of Connecticut's request to conduct rocket testing on town land, citing liability and safety concerns. They also approved a $6,457.51 tax refund to the estate of Carlton Beyor and renamed Poole Pond to Pearson Pond. Additional actions included appointing new members to several commissions, reappointing the Transfer Station Committee, and authorizing a $45,732 contract with Bolton for building‑official services.

• Denied UCONN rocket testing request (unanimous)
• Approved $6,457.51 tax refund to Estate of Carlton Beyor (unanimous)
• Approved renaming of Poole Pond to Pearson Pond (unanimous)
• Appointed Theresa Phillips to Commission on Aging (term expires 6/30/2026, unanimous)
• Appointed Christine Rae to Commission on Aging (term expires 6/30/2025, unanimous)
• Reappointed Transfer Station Committee members Keith Lipker, Chuck Atkins, Casey McCue (unanimous)
• Authorized $45,732 one‑year contract with Town of Bolton for building official services (unanimous)
• Moved review of 2025‑2026 building official service contract to Executive Session (unanimous)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the March 10 meeting unanimously. They accepted Special Permit Application PZ-25-1 for an outdoor patio and live entertainment at 196 Chatey Rd, with a unanimous vote. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 10 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Special Permit Application PZ-25-1 for 196 Chatey Rd (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Selectmen approved the legal notice for the Annual Town Budget Meeting on April 22, 2025. They approved tax refunds of $48.33 to Honda Lease Trust and $72.74 to Toyota Lease Trust. The board renewed the Ashford Memorial Park mowing contract with Greg Peck. They reappointed David Roston as an alternate member of the Recreation Commission.

• Approved legal notice for Annual Town Budget Meeting (motion passed)
• Approved $48.33 tax refund to Honda Lease Trust (motion passed)
• Approved $72.74 tax refund to Toyota Lease Trust (motion passed)
• Approved renewal of Ashford Memorial Park mowing contract to Greg Peck (motion passed)
• Reappointed David Roston as alternate member of Recreation Commission (motion passed)

Board of Finance

The board moved and unanimously approved recommendations to present the FY 2025‑2026 General Government budget ($4,141,148) and Capital Improvement Plan budget ($1,388,709) to the Board of Selectmen for the Annual Town Meeting. It also approved the FY 2025‑2026 Board of Education budget ($8,853,864) and Ashford’s share of the Region 19 Board of Education budget ($4,163,113) for the same meeting. Additionally, the board recommended that the Board of Selectmen set dates for an Annual Town Meeting and referendum on the proposed budgets. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved $4,141,148 General Government budget and $1,388,709 Capital Improvement Plan budget (unanimous)
• Approved $8,853,864 Board of Education budget (unanimous)
• Approved $4,163,113 Ashford share of Region 19 Board of Education budget (unanimous)
• Recommended Board of Selectmen schedule Annual Town Meeting and referendum (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The board approved a 4.5% increase in base rent effective July 1, 2025. The 2026 Management Plan was also approved. The March 11, 2025 meeting minutes were adopted. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved 4.5% base rent increase effective July 1 2025 (Phillips, Kerensky, Poitras in favor; Labrecque abstained)
• Approved 2026 Management Plan as proposed (all in favor)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashford Parks & Recreation Commission approved several items unanimously, including the FYTD 24/25 budget report, a $3,200 mulch purchase, an $828.38 printer and toner purchase, and a reallocation of $180 and $150 to mileage reimbursement. They also extended the mowing contract with Greg Peck for $7,200 for one more year and approved a port‑a‑let service costing $175 or less per cleaning. Summer concerts were placed on hold pending budget confirmation.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FYTD 24/25 Budget and Revenue Report (unanimous)
• Approved $3,200 mulch purchase (unanimous)
• Approved $828.38 printer and toner purchase (unanimous)
• Approved reallocation of $180 membership fees and $150 advertising to mileage reimbursement (unanimous)
• Extended mowing contract with Greg Peck for $7,200 for one year (unanimous)
• Approved port‑a‑let contract up to $175 per cleaning (unanimous)
• Placed summer concerts on hold pending budget confirmation (unanimous)

Commission on Aging

The commission appointed Esther Jagodzinski as temporary secretary and chair for the meeting. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Appointed Esther Jagodzinski as temporary secretary and chair (motion passed)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting at 11:23 AM (motion passed)

Ashford Our Town Our Future

The Core Committee approved the March 3, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. No substantive actions were taken; the meeting focused on updates to the POCD and tourism video project. The meeting was then adjourned by motion.

• Approved March 3, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Board of Selectmen

The regular Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled for April 7, 2025 was cancelled. No decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Board of Education (ABOE)

The board approved the minutes from March 6 and March 12 unanimously. It accepted the retirements of preschool teacher Ginger Lusa and paraeducator Ginger Reviezky. Members appointed Al Maccarone, Kurt Love, and Chonte Fields to the Bicknell Scholarship Committee. The FY26 budget was moved forward to a public hearing with a 2.5% increase over the current year.

• Approved March 6 and March 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted retirements of Ginger Lusa and Ginger Reviezky (unanimous)
• Appointed Al Maccarone, Kurt Love, Chonte Fields to Bicknell Scholarship Committee (unanimous)
• Moved FY26 budget forward to public hearing with 2.5% increase (no vote recorded)
• Cancelled special subcommittee work sessions (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 pm (unanimous)

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals approved the minutes from the September 17, 2024 meeting with a unanimous vote. No appeals were presented for the board to hear. The Assessor briefed the board on recent legislative changes and the FY 2026 budget proposal, but no actions were taken on those items.

• Approved minutes from 9/17/2024 meeting (unanimous)
• No appeals heard (none presented)

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

The commission unanimously approved the March 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved the IW‑25‑02 application for a single‑family dwelling at 21 Westview Dr, requiring standard sediment controls. The farm expansion at 859 Westford Rd was accepted “as of right” by unanimous vote, and the cease‑and‑desist matter for 348 Ference Rd was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved March 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved IW‑25‑02, 21 Westview Dr single‑family dwelling with standard sediment controls (unanimous)
• Accepted 859 Westford Rd farm expansion “as of right” (unanimous)
• Tabled Cease and Desist for 348 Ference Rd until next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance unanimously approved the minutes from the March 20 meeting. It then unanimously approved the public hearing notice, scheduling the hearing for April 8 at 7 p.m. in Knowlton Hall. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice and set hearing for April 8, 7 p.m. at Knowlton Hall (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The board approved the minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. A motion to enter an executive session at 10:39 a.m. to discuss the Library Director’s compensation passed unanimously, and a motion to leave the executive session at 10:52 a.m. also passed unanimously. The strategic plan discussion was tabled, postponing it until the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:54 a.m. after a motion carried.

• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss Library Director’s compensation (unanimous)
• Left executive session (unanimous)
• Tabled strategic plan discussion (postponed)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:54 a.m. (motion carried)

Board of Finance

The Board of Finance approved the General Government budget with a 2.43% increase and the Board of Education budget with a 2.5% increase over the prior year. A motion to transfer $300,000 from the Unassigned Fund to the Capital Non‑Recurring Fund passed unanimously. The 2025‑2026 Capital Improvement Budget was also approved unanimously.

• Approved March 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous, 2 abstentions)
• Accepted 2025‑2026 General Government budget (2.43% increase) and Board of Education budget (2.5% increase) – unanimous vote
• Transferred $300,000 from Unassigned Fund to Capital Non‑Recurring Fund – unanimous vote
• Approved 2025‑2026 Capital Improvement Budget – unanimous vote
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous vote