West Hartford public meetings in 2024

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing on an application from WeHa Development Group, LLC. The proposal seeks to change roughly 33.5 acres at 1800 Asylum Avenue from an R‑10 single‑family residential zone to a BS shopping‑center zone with a Special Development District overlay. The change would allow a mixed‑use development that includes commercial and residential uses, parking, and site amenities. Councilors and members of the public will have an opportunity to comment.

• Rezoning application by WeHa Development Group, LLC to convert ~33.5 acres at 1800 Asylum Avenue from R‑10 single‑family to BS shopping‑center zone with SDD overlay
• Public comments from councilors and residents on the rezoning proposal

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing with only two members present. The sole substantive action was a motion to continue the public hearing for the proposed rezoning of 1800 Asylum Avenue to February 11, 2025, which passed unanimously. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Continued public hearing for 1800 Asylum Avenue rezoning to Feb 11, 2025 (2-0)

Community Planning & Economic Development

This meeting is primarily a site tour of the West Hartford Fellowship Housing Phase I, with no formal votes or public hearings on the agenda. The committee will also receive staff reports and discuss future agenda items.

• Tour of West Hartford Fellowship Housing Phase I

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals holds a public hearing and regular meeting to decide on two variance requests. One seeks a 28-foot setback reduction for a shed at 9 Squirrel Hill Road; the other requests a 10.5-foot setback reduction for an illuminated sign at 28 North Main Street. The board will also vote on the petitions, approve past minutes, adopt the 2025 meeting calendar, and elect officers for 2025.

• #14-24: Variance to Section 177-20 for a +/-28' building line setback reduction at 9 Squirrel Hill Rd to build a 12x16 shed in R-40 zone
• #15-24: Variance to Section 177-33H(2)(a)[3] for a +/-10.5' street line setback reduction at 28 North Main St to place a 16 sq ft illuminated D/F sign in RO zone
• Discussion and vote on each petition
• Approval of minutes from September 18, 2024 meeting
• Election of ZBA officers for 2025

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The West Hartford Senior Citizens Advisory Commission meets to review proposed code changes for the commission, receive updates from town social services, transportation, and senior centers, and discuss the 2025 calendar. A presentation by the North Central Area Agency on Aging is scheduled. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Review of proposed SCAC code changes
• Discussion of 2025 SCAC calendar
• Presentation by Maureen McIntyre, Executive Director of North Central Area Agency on Aging
• Reports on Seniors Job Bank, Transportation for Seniors, and Senior Centers
• WH Social Services report by Paquette

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission discussed proposed changes to its code, including shortening appointment terms from 5 to 3 years, but tabled a vote pending further clarification. The commission approved the 2025 meeting dates. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved November 19, 2024 meeting minutes as written
• Tabled vote on proposed SCAC code changes until January 21, 2025 meeting
• Approved 2025 SCAC meeting dates

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The commission will meet to finalize its report to the Town Council and receive updates from working groups. Discussions include the development of a 'Cool West Hartford' resource website and a town-wide planting policy.

• Finalization of Report to Town Council
• Proposal for 'Cool West Hartford' website and newsletter
• Development of a town-wide planting policy for land care
• Design of signage for existing meadows
• Discussion of gas-powered lawncare restrictions

The commission voted 7-0 to approve its 2024 Report to Town Council, which will be presented to the Public Works, Facilities, and Sustainability Committee on January 9, 2025. It also voted 7-0 to reserve a booth at Celebrate! West Hartford and approved prior meeting minutes without change. No other substantive decisions were made; most other items were discussions or updates.

• Approved 2024 Report to Town Council (7-0)
• Reserved booth at Celebrate! West Hartford (7-0)
• Approved prior meeting minutes without change (7-0)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will review a formal referral for the redevelopment of 29 Highland Street. The proposal includes rezoning approximately 2.3 acres to allow for a new 112-unit multifamily residential development.

• Rezoning of 29 Highland Street from RI single-family to RM-1 multifamily residence district
• Proposed 112 unit multifamily residential development with Special Development District Designation
• Redevelopment includes associated parking and site amenities

The Design Review Advisory Committee held a regular meeting on December 12, 2024, primarily to review a proposed zone change and 112-unit multifamily development at 29 Highland Street. The committee discussed design concerns and requested the applicant return for an additional meeting. The committee also approved the November 14, 2024 meeting minutes and the 2025 meeting calendar, and concluded that a proposed height change to 'building 4' at 1800 Asylum Avenue was not a material change.

• Approved minutes from November 14, 2024 special meeting
• Approved 2025 DRAC meeting and filing dates calendar
• Concluded no material change to 1800 Asylum Avenue building height proposal
• Requested applicant return for additional meeting on 29 Highland Street project

Finance & Administration Committee

The West Hartford Finance & Administration Committee will consider two resolutions: one setting compensation for the Registrars and Deputy Registrars of Voters, and another authorizing the Town Manager to apply for a grant to preserve a Revolutionary War campsite. They will also receive an update on the American Rescue Plan Act and then enter executive session to discuss pending tax appeals involving four properties. The meeting includes approval of the November 12, 2024 minutes.

• Resolution to set compensation for Registrars and Deputy Registrars of Voters
• Resolution authorizing grant participation for Revolutionary War campsite preservation
• American Rescue Plan Act update
• Executive session for tax appeals: Denon, LLC (14 Oakwood Ave), K Brothers, LLC (1149 New Britain Ave), LaSalle Road Associates, LLC (125 LaSalle Rd), Abbott Ball Company (19 Railroad Place)
• Approval of November 12, 2024 meeting minutes

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs will meet to discuss the Sterling Field Memorial and plan activities and a meeting calendar for 2025. The session includes a presentation from Hartford Healthcare Veteran’s Liaison Sherri Vogt.

• Presentation by Sherri Vogt, Hartford Healthcare Veteran’s Liaison
• Discussion of Sterling Field Memorial
• Approval of 2025 Meeting Calendar
• Planning for 2025 activities
• Status of Commission Vacancies

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs approved the minutes from September 3, 2024, and endorsed the 2025 meeting calendar by consensus. Members discussed property tax relief for veterans, including a potential Gold Star family exemption, and set 2025 priorities: local tax exemptions, a letter to veterans about resources, and updating the town's Veteran's Services web page. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes from September 3, 2024 (unanimous)
• Endorsed 2025 meeting calendar (consensus)
• Set 2025 priorities: tax exemptions, veterans letter, web page update

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission will review changes and recommendations from the SCAC Draft Ordinance Commission. They will also discuss the 2025 mission and calendar items and consider forming sub-committees. Public comment is invited.

• Review of SCAC Draft Ordinance Commission changes and recommendations
• Discussion of 2025 SCAC Mission & Calendar Items
• Possible formation of SCAC sub-committees

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission reviewed proposed changes to its code, with staff agreeing to shorten appointment terms from five to three years and update language from 'elderly' to 'older adults'. The commission deferred further discussion on sub-committees and the 2025 mission to its January meeting.

• Agreed to change SCAC appointment terms from five to three years
• Agreed to update code language from 'elderly' or 'retired' to 'older adults'
• Recommended keeping commission name as 'Senior Citizen' due to statutory definitions
• Deferred sub-committee formation and 2025 mission discussion to January 2025 meeting

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed zone change for 29 Highland Street from single-family to multifamily (RM-1) with a Special Development District overlay to allow a 112-unit residential development under state affordable housing statute 8-30g. The council also has unfinished business on ordinances affecting the Fair Rent Commission and the Director of Emergency Management, and will vote on numerous appointments, resolutions including golf fee revisions, pension plan amendments, and acceptance of a donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue.

• Public hearing on change of zone for 29 Highland Street to RM-1 with SDD overlay for 112-unit multifamily development under 8-30g
• Ordinance concerning the Fair Rent Commission
• Ordinance concerning the Director of Emergency Management
• Resolution authorizing acceptance of donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue
• Resolution revising schedule of fees for Rockledge Golf Club and Buena Vista Golf Course

The West Hartford Town Council unanimously adopted ordinances concerning the Fair Rent Commission and the Director of Emergency Management, and authorized the Town Manager to accept the donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue. The council also referred a proposed 112-unit multifamily development at 29 Highland Street to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission for a public hearing, and approved several resolutions including golf course fee schedules and fund appropriations.

• Adopted ordinance concerning the Fair Rent Commission (9-0)
• Adopted ordinance concerning the Director of Emergency Management (9-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to accept donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue (9-0)
• Referred 29 Highland Street rezoning application to TPZ and set public hearing for Jan 28, 2024 (9-0)
• Adopted resolution revising golf course fees for Rockledge and Buena Vista (9-0)
• Appropriated funds to Board of Education from Capital Non-Recurring Expenditure Fund (9-0)
• Authorized distribution from C.F. Morway Trust Fund for golf carts (9-0)
• Adopted resolution setting Registrars of Voters compensation (9-0)

Library Board

The West Hartford Library Board will hold a special meeting including an executive session to discuss a privileged legal memo. The board will also consider approval of prior meeting minutes and discuss procedures for an appeal. The main item is an appeal of a library decision regarding D. Haines.

• Executive session under CT statute to discuss attorney-client privileged memorandum
• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2024 meeting
• Discussion of procedure for appeal
• Appeal of Library Decision re: D. Haines

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission will discuss a recent pedestrian fatality in West Hartford. Town Manager Rick Ledwith and Town Engineer Greg Sommer will provide updates on road safety projects and answer questions.

• Discussion of recent pedestrian fatality
• Road safety project updates from Town Manager and Town Engineer

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission discussed the town's selection of Option C for the center renovation, with members expressing concerns about insufficient consultation and safety. Town Manager Rick Ledwith defended the choice, citing safer conditions for cyclists and pedestrians, and noted the contractor award must be issued by Dec 31 to secure funding. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and advisory.

• Approved previous meeting minutes unanimously
• Discussed Option C for center renovation; no vote taken
• Requested evaluation of uniform 25 MPH speed limit on residential roads
• Requested investigation of bike detection cameras at MDC reservoirs
• Requested evaluation of planters on Phase 3 of Trout Brook Trail
• Adjourned unanimously at 8:57 PM

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from the Fire and Police departments. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and staff reports.

• Approval of November 1, 2024 minutes
• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss draft mission and vision statements, hear from guest speaker Adrienne Billings-Smith, and set meeting dates for 2025. The meeting also includes an update on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. No votes or binding decisions are on the agenda.

• Discussion with guest speaker Adrienne Billings-Smith
• Review of mission and vision statement drafts
• Setting of 2025 meeting dates
• Update on Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission approved a change to its regular meeting time, moving from 7:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. for parent convenience, with a vote of 3 in favor and 2 opposed. The commission also unanimously approved updated mission and vision statements and the minutes from the previous meeting. A guest speaker, Equity Officer Adrienne Billings-Smith, presented her role and recommendations, and the commission discussed an upcoming Declaration of Human Rights celebration scheduled for January 15th.

• Approved meeting time change to 6:45 p.m. (3-2)
• Approved updated mission and vision statements (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Mayor's Youth Council

The Mayor's Youth Council is meeting to receive reports from officers and subcommittees. The group is discussing upcoming community events and youth leadership workshops.

• Teen Room Mural Reception
• Holiday Stroll on 12/5 in Blue Back Square
• Teen Skate Night on 12/6 at Veterans Memorial Rink
• Youth Leadership Workshops on 12/11 and 1/8
• Kindness Project Boxing Day on December 21 at Noah Webster Library

The Mayor's Youth Council held a special meeting on December 3, 2024, approving the previous meeting's minutes with no corrections. The council discussed upcoming events including the Holiday Stroll on December 5 and Teen Skate Night on December 6, with volunteer sign-ups underway. A ServeCT grant application for $6,138 was submitted for a cultural fair planned for April, though the Town Hall reservation is not yet confirmed. No formal votes or policy decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and planning-focused.

• Approved meeting minutes with no corrections (7:02 PM)
• Applied for ServeCT grant of $6,138 for April cultural fair
• Scheduled Holiday Stroll volunteers for December 5 at Blue Back Square
• Scheduled Teen Skate Night volunteers for December 6 at Veterans Memorial Rink
• Adjourned meeting at 7:37 PM

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will hold a special meeting to review updates on capital projects and tree studies. The board will discuss a proposal for 12 food scrap collection sites and a fee increase for the Golf Club.

• Proposed 12 food scrap collection sites
• Proposed fee increase for Golf Club
• Capital Improvement Projects update
• Tree Canopy Study and Tree Inventory progress
• Park Ordinance updating

The West Hartford Parks & Recreation Advisory Board adopted October minutes, endorsed proposed fee increases for golf clubs for the 2025 season, and approved its 2025 meeting dates. The board also received updates on capital improvement projects, a tree canopy study, and a new satellite food scrap collection program.

• Adopted October 28, 2024 minutes (Steve Garneau and Narayan Paudel abstained)
• Endorsed proposed fee increases for golf clubs for the 2025 golfing season
• Approved 2025 meeting dates

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The West Hartford Town Plan and Zoning Commission will review several pending applications, including look‑backs on previously approved school and athletic projects. It will also consider a wetland permit to replace culverts on Trout Brook and a proposal to rezone 33.5 acres at 1800 Asylum Avenue from single‑family to a shopping‑center district. A resolution to accept a land donation at 1700 Asylum Avenue will be presented for recommendation to the Town Council.

• 1800 Asylum Avenue – rezoning of ~33.5 acres from R‑10 single‑family to BS shopping‑center zone with Special Development District overlay
• 1710 Asylum Avenue & 1800 Asylum Avenue – Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit to replace two culverts in East Branch of Trout Brook
• 1678 Asylum Avenue – University of St. Joseph request to install bleachers and a small press box adjacent to the multisport turf field
• 170 Kingswood Road – Kingswood Oxford School look‑back on compliance with conditions for dugouts and protective netting at varsity baseball field
• 2865 Albany Avenue – Renbrook School look‑back on compliance with conditions for the synthetic turf athletic field installed in 2022

The West Hartford Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved a special use permit for the Hartford Golf Club to renovate an existing fire pit, add a new one, and add about 1,200 square feet of patio. The commission also determined that three schools' special use permits (Renbrook, University of St. Joseph, and The Children's Museum) did not require additional conditions. A proposed zone change for 1800 Asylum Avenue was received but no action was taken.

• Approved SUP #1426-R1-24 for Hartford Golf Club fire pit and patio expansion (5-0)
• Determined no additional conditions for Renbrook School SUP #1377 (5-0)
• Determined no additional conditions for University of St. Joseph SUP #1378 (5-0)
• Determined no additional conditions for Children's Museum SUP #1383 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Kingswood Oxford School SUP #1394 look-back for January 6, 2025 (5-0)
• Found Inland Wetlands application for 1710/1800 Asylum Avenue potentially significant, set hearing for January 6, 2025 (5-0)
• Recommended approval of resolution to accept donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue (5-0)
• No action taken on zone change request for 1800 Asylum Avenue

Human & Community Services Committee

The Human & Community Services Committee will discuss proposed fees for golf for 2025. The body will also consider a resolution to purchase golf carts for the Buena Vista Golf Course.

• 2025 Resolution Proposed Fees for Golf
• Resolution to Purchase Golf Carts for Buena Vista Golf Course
• Leisure & Social Services Update
• Library Updates

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission will discuss and potentially approve 2025 meeting dates, including moving the December 30 meeting to December 16. They will also review ongoing business such as the Cool West Hartford initiative, a contract for a meadow expert, and a proposed planting policy. Working group reports on nature-based solutions and energy are attached for review.

• Approval of 2025 meeting dates: move Dec 30 to Dec 16?
• Contract with Mike Nadeau for meadow restoration, larger than originally intended
• Discussion of Cool West Hartford initiative (modeled on Cool Boulder) including pollinator pathways, connect canopies, absorbent landscapes
• Proposed planting policy to guide town departments on land care
• Suggestion to pursue restrictions on gas-powered lawn care

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission approved the 2025 meeting schedule and voted to hold a special meeting on Dec 16, canceling the Dec 30 meeting. They also approved prior meeting minutes without changes. The commission discussed a proposed 'Cool West Hartford' program inspired by Cool Boulder, and received a climate action survey presentation from Kingswood Oxford students.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting dates (6-0)
• Approved special meeting Dec 16 and cancel Dec 30 meeting (6-0)

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Community Planning & Economic Development Committee will meet to discuss transportation safety and infrastructure. The agenda includes updates on bicycle facilities and the Vision Zero initiative.

• Bicycle Facility Update
• Vision Zero Update
• Community Development Department Update

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will meet to determine dates and items for the 2025 calendar and discuss the possible formation of sub-committees. The meeting includes a presentation from Hartford Healthcare regarding services needed during aging.

• Presentation on 'Services You May Need As You Age' by Christine Huebner and Andrea Giudice
• Discussion of 2025 SCAC Calendar Dates & Items
• Possible formation of SCAC Sub-Committees
• Reports on Seniors Job Bank, Transportation for Seniors, and Senior Centers

The West Hartford Senior Citizens' Advisory Commission approved scheduling a special meeting in December to discuss its mission, 2025 plans, and proposed Town Code changes. The commission also approved the October minutes and expressed support for advertising The Hospital Bed Project in the Senior Center Bulletin. No formal votes were recorded on other matters.

• Approved scheduling a special meeting for Dec. 3 or Dec. 10 to discuss mission, 2025 plans, and code changes
• Approved minutes of the October 15, 2024 meeting as written
• Commission favored advertising The Hospital Bed Project in the Senior Center Bulletin

Mayor's Youth Council

The Mayor's Youth Council will meet to discuss subcommittee reports on diversity, food insecurity, mental health, and political activism. New business includes a proposed Serve Connecticut Grant and planning for 2025 officer meetings. The council will also hear updates on the Able Table Dedication and PHACTT meeting, including Teen Care Cards.

• Discussion of Serve Connecticut Grant
• Planning for 2025 officer meeting dates
• MYC Outreach Kit items: table cover and shirts
• Update on Teen Care Cards from PHACTT meeting
• Able Table Dedication recap from October 24

Pension Board

The West Hartford Pension Board will discuss the reappointment of Perry Salonia for 2025, receive a capital markets update and portfolio review from Fiducient Advisors, and consider a proposed 2025 meeting calendar. The board will also vote on approval of October minutes, pension administration items (memberships, withdrawals, retirement applications), and invoices totaling approximately $33,208.

• Reappointment of Perry Salonia in 2025
• Capital Markets Update and Portfolio Review by Fiducient Advisors
• Proposed 2025 Meeting Calendar
• Pension administration items: memberships, withdrawals, terminations, and retirement applications
• Invoices: Milliman ($1,500), Pier Capital ($22,070.08), Principal Custody Solutions ($9,638.19)

Commission on the Arts

The November 18, 2024 special meeting of the West Hartford Commission on the Arts has been canceled. The agenda listed only procedural items and a discussion on fulfilling the commission's mission.

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The commission will receive a staff report from the Town ADA Coordinator and hear from guest speaker Darleen Borre. The body will also consider a proposed meeting schedule for 2025.

• Staff report from Suzanne Oslander, Town ADA Coordinator
• Guest speaker Darleen Borre
• Proposed 2025 meeting schedule

The West Hartford Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities approved its 2025 meeting schedule and the minutes from June 24, 2024. The commission also discussed strategies to increase community awareness and heard from a guest speaker about autism. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (January 13, March 10, May 12, June 23, September 8, November 17)
• Approved minutes from June 24, 2024

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will consider three requests for tax-exempt status: Mosaic for real property at 33 Pelham Road and 3 Little Lane, Community Residences, Inc. (property type not specified), and Hartford Hospital for personal property at various locations. They will also approve minutes from the April 2024 meeting, set the 2025 meeting schedule, and receive a report on tax appeals.

• Tax-exempt status request for Mosaic at 33 Pelham Road
• Tax-exempt status request for Mosaic at 3 Little Lane
• Tax-exempt status request for Community Residences, Inc.
• Tax-exempt status request for Hartford Hospital (personal property, various locations)
• Board of Assessors meeting schedule for 2025

The Board of Assessors approved a tax exemption for the Mosaic group home at 33 Pelham Road, and tabled three other exemption requests due to incomplete records or the need for more information. The board also approved the minutes from the April 11, 2024 meeting and the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Approved tax exemption for Mosaic group home at 33 Pelham Road (unanimous)
• Tabled tax exemption request for Mosaic at 3 Little Lane (unanimous)
• Tabled tax exemption request for Community Residences, Inc. (unanimous)
• Tabled tax exemption request for Hartford Hospital (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 11, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (unanimous)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The Design Review Advisory Committee will consider a formal referral from the Town Council regarding a development application for 1800 Asylum Avenue. The proposal involves changing the zoning of approximately 33.5 acres to allow for a mixed-use commercial and residential development.

• Application by WeHa Development Group, LLC to change 33.5 acres of 1800 Asylum Avenue from R-10 single-family zone to BS shopping center zone with Special Development District Designation (SDD) overlay

The Design Review Advisory Committee voted unanimously (5-0) to recommend approval of a zone change for 1800 Asylum Avenue, from R-10 single-family to BS shopping center with Special Development District overlay, for a mixed-use development. The applicant presented design changes addressing prior committee feedback, including added evergreens, a green roof, and safety improvements. The recommendation will go to the Town Council for final decision.

• Recommended approval of 1800 Asylum Ave zone change to BS with SDD overlay (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 24, 2024 special meeting

Prevention Council

The West Hartford Prevention Council will hold a regular meeting on November 14, 2024. The agenda includes approval of minutes, old business regarding the Prevention Conference, new business covering calendar, achievements, and nominations, and standing reports from various departments. Public comment will be heard.

• Approval of October 2024 minutes
• Old business: Prevention Conference discussion
• New business: calendar, achievements and goals, nominations
• Standing reports: Prevention, Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge)
• Public comment period

The West Hartford Prevention Council approved the October 2024 meeting minutes and approved its achievements and goals. Megan Polte was nominated and accepted a second term on the council. The council is seeking nominations for Chair and two vacancies. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting consisted primarily of reports from member organizations.

• Approved October 2024 meeting minutes
• Approved achievements and goals
• Megan Polte accepted nomination for second term on Prevention Council

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The West Hartford Public Works, Facilities & Sustainability Committee will consider approval of the October 17, 2024 meeting minutes. Staff will present updates on facilities, sustainability initiatives, and public works operations. The committee will also discuss communications matters and plan future agenda items before adjourning.

• Approval of Minutes – October 17, 2024
• Facilities Update (staff report)
• Sustainability Update (staff report)
• Public Works Update (staff report)
• Discussion of future agenda items

Public Safety Committee

This is a routine Public Safety Committee meeting with no specific decisions or public hearings. The committee will vote on approving minutes from October 9, 2024, and receive staff updates from the Police and Fire Departments. No new ordinances, contracts, or fiscal actions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from October 9, 2024
• Police Department update (no details provided)
• Fire Department update (no details provided)

Special Services District

The West Hartford Center Special Services District will hold a routine meeting to approve the April 2024 minutes and adopt its schedule of meetings for 2025. A district manager's report and a public forum for property owners are also on the agenda. No significant policy decisions or financial items are listed.

• Adoption of Schedule of Meetings for 2025
• Approval of minutes from April 24, 2024
• Public forum for property owners within the district
• Report by District Manager

The commission approved the minutes from the April 24, 2024 meeting and adopted the schedule of meetings for 2025. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Approved April 24, 2024 meeting minutes (11-0)
• Approved 2025 Schedule of Meetings (11-0)

Finance & Administration Committee

The West Hartford Finance and Administration Committee meets on November 12, 2024 to discuss and potentially vote on several items. They will consider a resolution to appropriate funds from the Capital Nonrecurring Expenditure Fund to the Board of Education. An update on ARPA funds will be presented. The committee will also hold an executive session to discuss the Town Manager's employment and performance.

• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2024
• Resolution appropriating funds from Capital Nonrecurring Expenditure Fund to Board of Education (no dollar amount specified)
• ARPA update
• Executive session to discuss Town Manager's employment, performance, evaluation
• Future agenda items discussion

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The West Hartford Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission will hear from Town Manager Rick Ledwith and Town Engineer Greg Sommer on road safety projects. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes, announcements, and setting the next agenda. No specific proposals or votes are scheduled for this meeting.

• Town Manager and Town Engineer to provide updates on road safety projects and answer questions

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes with a small change. They discussed updates on trail safety, bike racks, and engineering projects, and volunteered members for a subcommittee to explore trail connectivity with Farmington. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with a small change (unanimous)
• Volunteered John, Tristan, Jill for Farmington connectivity subcommittee

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss a zoning change for a site at 1800 Asylum Avenue to allow for commercial and residential uses. The body is also reviewing several ordinances and resolutions regarding grant funding and town fees.

• Zoning change application for 1800 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to BS shopping center zone with SDD overlay
• Resolution revising annual permit fees at the Yard Waste and Recycling Center
• Resolution authorizing the Town Manager to accept the donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue
• Ordinances concerning the Fair Rent Commission and the Director of Emergency Management
• Appropriation of grant funds for Early Voting, Community Connectivity, and Vision Zero 2024

The West Hartford Town Council voted unanimously to refer a zoning change application for 1800 Asylum Avenue to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission and Design Review Advisory Commission, scheduling a public hearing for December 19, 2024. The council also set public hearings for ordinances on the Fair Rent Commission and the Director of Emergency Management for December 10, 2024. Several resolutions were adopted, including fee revisions at the Yard Waste and Recycling Center, acceptance of a donation of 1700 Asylum Avenue, and appropriation of grant funds for early voting, community connectivity, opioid settlement, ARPA, and Vision Zero programs.

• Referred 1800 Asylum Ave rezone application to TPZ and DRAC, set public hearing for Dec 19 (9-0)
• Set public hearing for Fair Rent Commission ordinance on Dec 10 (9-0)
• Set public hearing for Director of Emergency Management ordinance on Dec 10 (9-0)
• Adopted resolution revising annual permit fees at Yard Waste and Recycling Center (9-0)
• Referred donation of 1700 Asylum Ave to TPZ (9-0)
• Adopted resolution appropriating grant funds for early voting (9-0)
• Adopted resolution appropriating Community Connectivity Grant funds (9-0)
• Adopted resolution appropriating opioid settlement funds for prevention programs (9-0)

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will hold a special meeting with a guest presentation by Equity Coordinator Adrienne Billings-Smith, followed by discussion of draft Mission and Vision statements. The commission will also set 2025 meeting dates and review upcoming events.

• Special guest: Adrienne Billings-Smith, Town Equity Coordinator
• Discussion of Mission Statement and Vision Statement drafts
• Setting meeting dates for 2025
• Approval of prior meeting minutes

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will meet to review capital projects, discuss a proposed fee increase for the golf club, and launch a tree canopy study. The board will also seek community input on a five-year grant plan and review park rules.

• Proposed fee increase for Golf Club
• Tree Canopy Study launch led by PlanIT Geo
• Community Development Block Grant five-year plan
• Review of park rules and signage
• Fall/Winter Programs update

The board was informed that the Eisenhower Pool renovation will be delayed until fall 2025 due to an abatement issue in the seams and paint, with increased costs expected. Other capital projects are progressing, including Wolcott Park restrooms and a new community center in schematic design. The board discussed potential food scrap collection programs, a tree canopy study, and a proposed fee increase for golf clubs, but no formal votes were taken on these items.

• Adopted July 22, 2024 minutes (Shawn Daly abstained)
• Noted Eisenhower Pool renovation delayed to fall 2025 due to abatement issue
• Noted Wolcott Park restroom project on track for December completion
• Noted Rockledge Driving Range delayed due to unstable fill soil; piers to be installed
• Noted new community center in schematic design with walkout basement proposal
• Discussed food scrap collection options (curbside vs. satellite) with cost estimates
• Discussed tree canopy study with PlanIt Geo meeting set for November 1
• Discussed proposed fee increase for golf clubs for 2025 season

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will discuss several resolutions regarding the appropriation of state grant funds and a budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The body will also consider funding for the Board of Education and early voting locations. An executive session is scheduled to discuss real estate selection, lease, sale, or purchase.

• Resolution amending the General Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024
• Appropriation of Community Connectivity Grant Program funds
• Appropriation of State Grant Funds for Vision Zero
• Appropriation of Capital Nonrecurring Expenditure Fund to the Board of Education
• Resolution concerning early voting polling location(s)

Library Board

The West Hartford Public Library Board will vote to approve the consent agenda, which includes the September 23, 2024 meeting minutes, the library administrative report, and the budget report. The meeting also features a staff spotlight on the Teen Department, updates on the 2024 holiday schedule, the 2025 Sunday schedule, and the 2025 board meeting schedule, and announces an optional December meeting on 12/23/24. The Director, Laura Irmscher, will give a report before adjournment.

• Approval of consent agenda (minutes of Sep 23, 2024, admin report, budget report)
• Staff Spotlight: Teen Department
• 2024 Holiday Schedule and 2025 Sunday Schedule
• 2025 Library Board Meeting Schedule
• Optional December meeting scheduled for 12/23/24

The West Hartford Library Board unanimously approved closing the Noah Webster and Faxon Libraries at 2pm on December 24, with Bishops Corner Library not opening that day. They also approved the 2025 Sunday schedule, the 2025 board meeting schedule, and cancelled the December 23, 2024 board meeting. The board approved the consent agenda, including minutes and reports. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda including September minutes and reports (unanimous)
• Approved 2pm close on Dec 24 for Noah Webster and Faxon; Bishops Corner closed (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Sunday schedule (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Library Board meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Cancelled December 23, 2024 Library Board meeting (unanimous)

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission will discuss registration for the Sustainable CT Gold celebration and awards on November 13 in Old Saybrook. Working group reports on waste, nature‑based solutions, energy/buildings, and communications will be reviewed. New business includes a report to the Town Council, a proposal for twelve “blank slate” sessions in 2025, and a class project to inform the 2025 workplan. The meeting also covers staff reports, calendar updates, and next steps on natural water management techniques.

• Registration for Sustainable CT Gold celebration and awards on Nov 13, Old Saybrook
• Working group reports on waste, nature‑based solutions, energy/buildings, communications & engagement
• Proposal for twelve “blank slate” sessions in 2025
• Class project proposal by KO/Dan Gleason to inform 2025 workplan
• Report to Town Council (working group needed?)

The commission elected Dave Sagers as Chair, Steve Sack as Vice Chair, and Bernie Pelletier as Secretary, all by 7-0 votes. It approved prior meeting minutes and discussed future initiatives including the Cool West Hartford climate action proposal and a survey by Kingswood Oxford students. No major policy decisions were made; most items were discussions or plans for future meetings.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (7-0)
• Elected Dave Sagers as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Steve Sack as Vice Chair (7-0)
• Elected Bernie Pelletier as Secretary (7-0)
• Supported Kingswood Oxford class survey project for 2025 workplan
• Decided to finalize annual report for Town Council by January 9, 2025
• Agreed to explore Cool West Hartford initiative for 2025 workplan

Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Historic District Commission will review three Certificate of Appropriateness applications for new construction and alterations. The body will also approve the minutes from the September 23, 2024, meeting.

• Review application for aluminum and chain link fence at 182 Raymond Road
• Review application for new handicap ramp at WHAL School at 37 Buena Vista Road
• Review application to convert garage into Accessory Dwelling Unit at 90 Mountain Road
• Approval of September 23, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes
• Commissioners Concerns

The West Hartford Historic District Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness: one for new fencing at 182 Raymond Road (4-1) and one for a handicap ramp at the West Hartford Art League, 37 Buena Vista Road (unanimous). The commission also approved its September 23, 2024 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved fencing COA for 182 Raymond Road (4-1)
• Approved handicap ramp COA for West Hartford Art League, 37 Buena Vista Road (unanimous)
• Approved September 23, 2024 meeting minutes

Design Review Advisory Committee

The Design Review Advisory Committee will hold a study session on a proposed redevelopment of the western portion of the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue. The applicant plans to demolish existing buildings and construct eleven new mixed-use and residential buildings, along with new roadways, parking, and site improvements.

• 1800 Asylum Avenue – Study session for potential Special Development District application
• Proposed demolition of all existing buildings on the site
• Planned construction of eleven new buildings (commercial/mixed-use and residential)
• Inclusion of new private roadway, surface parking lots, and site improvements

The Design Review Advisory Committee held a study session to review changes to the proposed redevelopment of the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue, including the elimination of one townhome building and adjustments to parking, landscaping, and building materials. No formal decisions were made; the session was preparatory to a future Special Development District application. The committee also approved the minutes from the August 29, 2024 special meeting.

• Approved minutes from August 29, 2024 special meeting (motion by McClure, second by Schweitzer)
• Eliminated Building 7E/F (easternmost townhome building on Asylum) from the redevelopment plan
• Adjusted crosswalk alignments to better line up with sidewalk ramps
• Confirmed no code issues with plaza step-down behind building 3; reviewing ADA access options
• Clarified parking configuration: site is under-parked per zoning, so layouts with fewer spaces will not work
• Selected 'Option B' for building 6, providing glazing at all amenity areas
• Preferred narrower grocery store entry option with outdoor seating area
• Noted all mechanical equipment for building 3 will be enclosed and not visible

Fair Rent Commission

The Fair Rent Commission will meet to discuss meeting procedures and administrative hearing guidelines. The agenda includes continued hearings for two specific cases and a discussion of the next hearing date.

• Discussion of meeting procedure
• Explanation of administrative hearing guidelines
• Continued Case #2024-06 Raut v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC
• Continued Case #2024-07 Olesnevich v. Property Privacy Services
• Discussion of next hearing date

The Fair Rent Commission approved the October 10, 2024 meeting minutes, ruled on two tenant rent complaints, and vacated a prior fine against a landlord after the fee in question was removed. In Raut v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC, the commission found the rent excessive and set the proposed rent at $1,295. In Olesnevich v. Property Privacy Services, et al., the commission also found the rent increase excessive and set ongoing monthly rent at $1,600.

• Approved minutes from October 10, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Ruled rent in Raut v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC was excessive and unconscionable (unanimous)
• Set rent at $1,295 inclusive of trash fee in Raut v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC (unanimous)
• Ruled rent increase in Olesnevich v. Property Privacy Services, et al. was excessive and unconscionable (unanimous)
• Set monthly rental income at $1,600 in Olesnevich v. Property Privacy Services, et al. (unanimous)
• Vacated October 10, 2024 decision and Chair's order to fine Respondent in Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC (unanimous)

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will meet to discuss a resolution to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant budget. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss security strategy and personnel deployment.

• Resolution to appropriate prior year unexpended grant funds and unallocated public-private partnership funds to the FY 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant budget
• Executive session regarding security strategy and deployment of security personnel

The Town Council approved a resolution to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant budget. This action appropriates unexpended grant funds from the prior year and unallocated public-private partnership funds.

• Approved FY 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant budget amendment (7-0)
• Adopted October 8, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Entered Executive Session to discuss security strategy and personnel deployment (7-0)

Pension Board

The Pension Board will receive a quarterly investment review for the third quarter of 2024 from Fiducient Advisors. The board will also consider invoices for pension administration and implementation services. Other business includes updates on purchased service credits and MARC implementation.

• Fiducient Advisors quarterly consulting fee invoice for $18,025
• Milliman MARC implementation fee invoice for $1,500
• Quarterly Investment Review - 3Qu 2024
• Review of memberships, withdrawals, terminations, and retirement applications
• Update on purchased service credit ("buyback")

The West Hartford Pension Board approved a $1,500 expenditure for Milliman to review service rates used in internal buyback calculations, continuing the current internal process. The board also approved the September 16, 2024 minutes, all pension administration items, and invoices totaling $19,525. The quarterly investment review reported a 5.4% return for Q3 2024, with the portfolio ending at $576,898,894.

• Approved $1,500 for Milliman service rate review (unanimous)
• Approved September 16, 2024 minutes (all in favor, Al Lebow abstained)
• Approved pension administration items including memberships, withdrawals, and retirements (unanimous)
• Approved invoices: $1,500 Milliman MARC fee and $18,025 Fiducient consulting fee (unanimous)

Human & Community Services Committee

The West Hartford Human & Community Services Committee will approve the minutes from its previous meeting, receive an update on the Community Development Block Grant five‑year consolidated planning process, and discuss a revision to the Fair Rent Commission ordinance. Staff will provide updates on leisure & social services and the town library. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 21, 2024 at 6:00 PM and will be streamed live.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Update on CDBG five‑year consolidated planning process
• Discussion of Fair Rent Commission ordinance revision
• Leisure & Social Services program update
• Library program update

Commission on the Arts

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts will hold a special meeting to discuss how best to fulfill its mission. Commissioners will share and consider ideas, and may introduce topics for future discussion. No specific actions or contracts are on the agenda.

• Call to Order and Roll Call
• Public Comment
• Discussion of ideas to fulfill the commission’s mission
• Introduction of new business items for future meetings
• Adjournment

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts held a regular meeting with four members present. They approved the April meeting minutes unanimously. The main discussion was a review of the commission's work over the past four years and where to focus future efforts, with the discussion to continue at the November meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved April meeting minutes (4-0)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will discuss a proposed fee increase for the town's Yard Waste & Recycling Center. It will also consider updates on electric vehicle litter vacuum vehicles and electric vehicle supply equipment. Staff will provide monthly updates on plant & facilities, public works, and sustainability.

• Yard Waste & Recycling Center fee increase proposal
• Discussion of EV litter vacuum vehicles and EV charging equipment
• Approval of meeting minutes

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Committee will receive an update on the town’s Bicycle Facility Plan. It will also discuss the Albany Avenue service driveway project. Staff will provide a Community Development update. No formal decisions are listed beyond routine approvals.

• Bicycle Facility Plan Update
• Albany Avenue Service Driveway discussion
• Community Development Update
• Approval of Minutes

Civilian Police Review Board

The board will meet to approve minutes from the August 21, 2024 meeting. The primary focus of the session is the review and evaluation of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-04.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-04

The Civilian Police Review Board voted 6-0 to sustain the findings of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-04. It also approved the August 21, 2024 meeting minutes and agreed to keep its regular schedule of meeting the third Wednesday of each month at 6 pm. A second professional standards investigation is in process but is not expected to be ready for the November 20, 2024 meeting.

• Sustained findings of Internal Investigation 24-04 (6-0)
• Approved August 21, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Kept current CPRB schedule: third Wednesday monthly at 6 pm

Mayor's Youth Council

The Mayor's Youth Council will hold a special meeting to elect officers and receive school and subcommittee reports. The session includes a guest presentation from Skyler Pruneau of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Student Life Program.

• Election of officers
• Reports from Conard, Hall, and Kingswood Oxford schools
• Subcommittee reports on Diversity & Cultural Appreciation, Food Insecurity/Donation Drives, and Mental Health
• Updates on West Hartford Teen Leadership Conference and PHACTT campaigns
• Scheduling of November and December meeting dates and locations

The Mayor's Youth Council held officer elections by paper ballot. Moh Palanki was elected Chair and Joseph Landino Co-Chair, but the minutes state the two will serve as Co-Chairs rather than Chair and Co-Chair. Rudra Singh was elected Secretary, and chairs were also elected for Outreach, Social Media, Food Insecurity, Mental Health, and Political Activism subcommittees. Members selected subcommittee preferences, and no old or new business was discussed.

• Elected Moh Palanki as Chair (paper ballot)
• Elected Joseph Landino as Co-Chair (paper ballot)
• Noted Palanki and Landino will serve as Co-Chairs rather than Chair and Co-Chair
• Elected Rudra Singh as Secretary (paper ballot)
• Elected Allison Chen as Outreach Chair (paper ballot)
• Elected Caeli Sullivan as Social Media Chair (paper ballot)
• Elected Sebastian Latif as Food Insecurity Subcommittee Chair (paper ballot)
• Elected Catherine Zehr as Mental Health Subcommittee Chair and Jack Fitzgerald as Political Activism Subcommittee Chair (paper ballot)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The commission will receive a presentation from Robert McCue of the West Hartford Office of Emergency Management. The body will also review reports regarding senior transportation, job banks, and senior centers.

• Presentation by Robert McCue from the Office of Emergency Management
• Seniors Job Bank report
• Transportation for Seniors report
• Senior Centers report
• WH Social Services report

The Senior Citizens' Advisory Commission approved the September 17, 2024 minutes as written and approved a motion to attach housing roundtable survey data to the October 15, 2024 minutes. The meeting was largely informational: a presentation on the new Medical Resiliency Coordinator role, reports on the new Senior Centers bus, the Seniors Job Bank, transportation, and senior center programs. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved September 17, 2024 SCAC minutes as written
• Approved motion to attach June 25 Housing Roundtable survey data to the October 15, 2024 minutes

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review updates on the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan and bike rack and signage projects. Members will discuss a road safety audit for Sedgwick Road and updates regarding Vision Zero engineering.

• Sedgwick Road Road Safety Audit
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Park Road bike rack project update
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project update
• Boulevard restriping traffic calming discussion

The commission unanimously approved sending recommendations for the Park Road bike rack project to Greg Sommer. They reviewed a road safety audit for Sedgwick Road, which proposed raised crosswalks and bike lanes near Sedgwick Middle School. Updates on the Center Infrastructure Master Plan and Vision Zero projects were discussed, including the use of flex posts instead of guardrails on the Trout Brook Trail due to a gas line discovery.

• Approved sending Park Road bike rack recommendations to Greg Sommer (unanimous)
• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled reports from Hoboken, NJ Vision Zero and Naples, FL
• Tabled UConn T2 Center Pedestrian Safety Workshop report
• Discussed Sedgwick Road Road Safety Audit proposals (no vote recorded)
• Discussed Center Infrastructure Master Plan updates (no vote recorded)

Prevention Council

The Prevention Council will meet to discuss the Recovery Friendly Community initiative and coordinate meetings with social services and high schools. The body will also receive standing reports from police, public health, and school officials.

• Discussion on Recovery Friendly Community
• Planning for meetings with high schools
• Nomination for Chairperson
• Reports from Police, Public Health, and WHPS

The West Hartford Prevention Council met to review ongoing community initiatives and reports from town departments. The council voted to approve a letter of support for the Bloomfield/West Hartford Health District's tobacco control program. Members also discussed recovery services, school-based programs, and upcoming community events.

• Approved letter of support for tobacco control program (unanimous)

Fair Rent Commission

The Fair Rent Commission will discuss administrative hearing guidelines and meeting procedures. The body will provide a status update on one case and address two other specific rental disputes.

• Status update on Case #2024-05 Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC
• Case #2024-06 Raut v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC
• Case #2024-07 Olesnevich v. Property Privacy Services

The West Hartford Fair Rent Commission held a special meeting on October 10, 2024. It approved the September minutes, continued two hearings, and imposed a $100 fine on a landlord for failing to remove a retaliatory pet fee, with additional daily fines if not complied with within five days.

• Approved minutes from September 11, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Raut v. Westwood Apartments hearing to October 22, 2024 (unanimous)
• Imposed $100 fine on landlord in Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums for non-compliance with cease-and-desist order (unanimous)
• Continued Olesnevich v. Property Privacy Services hearing to October 22, 2024

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to review staff reports from the Police and Fire Departments. The meeting is primarily procedural and focused on departmental updates.

• Police Department Update
• Fire Department Update

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission will hold a special meeting to review its strategic plan and discuss the upcoming Celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The agenda includes a debrief of the Park Road Parade and the approval of meeting minutes.

• Review of Strategic Plan
• Celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• Park Road Parade Debrief
• Approval of Meeting Minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for November 6, 2024

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission held a special meeting on October 8, 2024, approving the September 2024 minutes with one amendment. Members discussed updating the mission statement to include immigration and socio-economic status, with a draft to be reviewed in November. They also planned a Universal Declaration of Human Rights celebration for January 15, 2025, and reviewed strategic plan objectives, including adding interfaith solidarity and creating a public email address. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved September 2024 meeting minutes with one amendment
• Discussed updating mission statement to add immigration and socio-economic status
• Scheduled UDHR celebration for January 15, 2025 at Town Hall
• Agreed to add interfaith solidarity to strategic plan objectives
• Agreed to create WHHRC email address for public input

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will meet to discuss the adoption of an affordable housing plan. The body will also consider a resolution to appropriate grant funds for the Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program.

• Resolution Adopting an Affordable Housing Plan
• Resolution Appropriating Grant Funds for the Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program
• Resignation of Andrei Tarutin from the Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Town Council adopted a resolution approving an Affordable Housing Plan by an 8-1 vote, with Councilor Fay dissenting. The council also approved a resolution to accept grant funds from the Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program, and issued proclamations declaring West Hartford a Recovery-Friendly Community and recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month.

• Adopted Affordable Housing Plan (8-1)
• Appropriated grant funds under Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program (9-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including approval of September 24, 2024 minutes and acceptance of resignation from Historic District Commission (9-0)

Finance & Administration Committee

The West Hartford Finance & Administration Committee will meet virtually on October 7, 2024, at 5:30 PM to discuss and vote on ordinances amending the pension plan, appropriating grant funds, and an ARPA update. The committee will also review minutes and receive a finance department update.

• Ordinance amending pension plan to allow contingent beneficiary designation
• Ordinance amending pension plan to allow refund of contributions
• Resolution appropriating $15,000 grant funds under Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program
• Resolution appropriating opioid settlement funds to support prevention programs
• ARPA update

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission is holding public hearings for a new clubhouse at Wampanoag Country Club and a private school at 76 La Salle Road. The body is also receiving new applications for site improvements and compliance reviews for several local institutions.

• 60 Wampanoag Drive: Proposed +/- 39,092 Sq.Ft. clubhouse and temporary tent
• 76 La Salle Road: Request to operate a private school for toddlers through upper elementary
• 134 Norwood Road: Proposal for fire pit renovations and 1,200 sq. ft. of new patio
• 139 North Main Street: Update on two one-story dormitory buildings for American School for the Deaf
• Affordable Housing Plan 2024-2029 update and overview

The West Hartford Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved two special use permits: one for The Book Club, LLC to operate a private school at 76 LaSalle Road, and another for Wampanoag Country Club to build a new clubhouse at 60 Wampanoag Drive, including a fee waiver. The commission also scheduled public hearings for November 4, 2024, on several other applications, including synthetic turf fields at Renbrook School and the University of St. Joseph, and a fire pit/patio expansion at Hartford Golf Club. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved special use permit for private school at 76 LaSalle Road (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for new clubhouse at 60 Wampanoag Drive (5-0)
• Approved fee waiver for Wampanoag Country Club application (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Renbrook School turf field review (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for University of St. Joseph turf field review (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Children's Museum temporary housing review (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Hartford Golf Club fire pit/patio expansion (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 4, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission is meeting to review a draft report for the Town Council and set goals for 2025. The body will also receive an update on the food waste diversion program from the Director of Public Works.

• Food waste diversion program update from Director of Public Works John Phillips
• Review of draft report to Town Council including 2024 Year In Review
• 2025 planning and goal setting discussion
• Election of new officers and working groups

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission heard a presentation from Public Works Director John Phillips on three food scrap diversion program options: curbside weekly collection, drop-off stations, and a town franchise model. No decision was made; the commission discussed pros and cons and will continue planning for a report to the Town Council. The meeting also included updates on the EV Showcase, school HVAC inspections, and 2025 goal-setting discussions.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (9-0)
• Discussed three food scrap diversion options; no action taken
• Deferred election of officers to next meeting
• Continued 2025 planning and Report to Council discussion

Community Planning & Economic Development

The West Hartford Community Planning & Economic Development Committee will hold a virtual meeting on September 24, 2024, at 8:00 AM. The session includes procedural items like approving minutes, staff reports, and updates on infrastructure projects and a natural hazard mitigation plan.

• MDC Lining Update
• Center Infrastructure Master Plan Update
• Resolution Adopting the Capitol Region Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update, 2024-2029

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on several resolutions to appropriate grant funds and energy rebates. The body will also consider adopting a regional natural hazard and climate adaptation plan. Additionally, the Council will review a request for architectural and landscape changes at 415 South Main Street.

• Resolution Appropriating Energy Rebates
• Resolution Adopting the Capitol Region Natural Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan
• Resolution Authorizing Suspense of Taxes Owed on the 2020 Grand List for Motor Vehicles and Personal Property
• Grant from the North Central Area Agency on Aging for Behavioral Health Services
• Request for architectural and landscape modifications for a new Starbucks at 415 South Main Street

The Town Council unanimously approved five resolutions, including appropriating energy rebates, accepting a Parkinson's disease grant, suspending motor vehicle and personal property taxes on the 2020 Grand List, accepting a behavioral health services grant, and adopting the Capitol Region Natural Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan. The consent calendar, including minutes and two communications, was also adopted. No public forum or unfinished business was held.

• Adopted resolution appropriating energy rebates (8-0)
• Adopted resolution appropriating American Parkinson Disease Association grant (8-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing suspension of taxes on 2020 Grand List for motor vehicles and personal property (8-0)
• Adopted resolution accepting North Central Area Agency on Aging grant for behavioral health services (8-0)
• Adopted Capitol Region Natural Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan (8-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including minutes and two communications (8-0)

Library Board

The Library Board will vote to approve the consent agenda, which includes the June 24 minutes, administrative reports, and the budget report. It will also consider the proposed 2024‑2025 holiday schedule and staff day closure on October 24. A brief update on the strategic plan will be presented by Director Laura Irmscher.

• Approve consent agenda (June 24 minutes, admin reports, budget report)
• Review and adopt 2024‑2025 holiday schedule
• Staff Day closure on October 24, 2024 (library closed 10 am–2 pm)
• Strategic plan update by Director Laura Irmscher

The West Hartford Library Board unanimously approved the 2024-2025 holiday schedule and a staff day closure for October 24, 2024. The board also approved the consent agenda, which included previous minutes and budget reports. Director Laura Irmscher reported on strategic plan updates, successful community events, and ongoing issues such as elevator repairs and book theft restitution.

• Approved 2024-2025 Holiday Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved Library closure 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Oct 24 for Staff Day (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including June 24 minutes and budget reports (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:15 p.m. (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review a Certificate of Appropriateness application to install new solar panels on the south side roof of 1578 Boulevard. The application was submitted by Reshna Thapa. The meeting will also include roll call, a review of the August 26th minutes, and a period for commissioners' concerns.

• Certificate of Appropriateness application for solar panels at 1578 Boulevard (Reshna Thapa)

The West Hartford Historic District Commission held a regular meeting with no substantive decisions. They approved the minutes from the August 26, 2024 meeting, reviewed content from previous guest speakers, and discussed an ongoing property initiative. Commissioner Andrei Tarutin's resignation was noted, and the meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes of August 26, 2024
• Noted resignation of Commissioner Andrei Tarutin
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on three petitions. These include requests for yard setbacks and a special exception for a home business.

• 46 Old Stone Crossing: Request to withdraw variance for a 15’ x 19.8’ addition
• 55 Mozart Street: Variance request for an 11.09’ rear yard setback to legalize work done without a permit
• 62 Blue Ridge Lane: Special Exception request for a one-year Reiki business home occupation

The West Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance to legalize unpermitted work at 55 Mozart Street, approved a one-year special exception for a Reiki home business, and withdrew an application for a side-yard variance. All decisions were unanimous 5-0.

• Withdrew variance application for 46 Old Stone Crossing (5-0)
• Granted variance at 55 Mozart Street to legalize unpermitted work (5-0)
• Granted one-year special exception for Reiki business at 62 Blue Ridge Lane (5-0)
• Approved minutes from July 24, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The West Hartford Senior Citizens Advisory Commission will review and approve the June 18, 2024 minutes, hear reports from the chairs, social services, job bank, transportation, senior centers, and a housing‑issues program. A new business segment follows, and Councilor Debra Polun will give a presentation on Human & Community Services. The meeting ends with public comment and scheduling of the next session.

• Approve minutes from the June 18, 2024 commission meeting
• Chairs’ Report by Co‑Chairs Noreen Bachteler and Eileen Rau
• WH Social Services Report presented by Paquette
• Presentation by Councilor Debra Polun, Chair of Human & Community Services Committee
• Public comment period

The West Hartford Senior Citizens' Advisory Commission met on September 17, 2024, approving the June minutes and hearing reports from staff and a town councilor. No formal votes or policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates, upcoming programs, and discussions on senior housing and services.

• Approved minutes from June 18, 2024 meeting
• Scheduled speakers for October, November, and December meetings
• Noted new Senior Center bus arrival, ribbon cutting Oct 7
• Discussed senior housing needs and ombudsman idea with Councilor Polun

Pension Board

The West Hartford Pension Board will discuss the 2024 meeting calendar, a purchased service credit buyback, and a motion to approve a disability retirement application for fire department employee Anthony Leca. The board will also consider approval of the May 13, 2024 meeting minutes and several invoices for consulting and monitoring services. Additional agenda items include portfolio updates and fiduciary governance matters before adjourning.

• Motion to approve disability retirement application for Anthony Leca (fire department)
• Approval of minutes from the regular meeting held on May 13, 2024
• Approval of Milliman invoices: $1,500 each for May‑August 2024
• Approval of Shipman & Goodwin invoices: $1,980 (through April 30, 2024) and $2,772 (through May 31, 2024)
• Approval of Pension Benefit Information, LLC invoice: $3,295.50 for death monitoring services

The West Hartford Pension Board voted to replace MetWest with Dodge & Cox as its active fixed income manager, maintaining a 20% active / 15% index allocation. The Board also reaffirmed the Investment Policy Statement, approved a disability retirement for a firefighter, and approved routine pension administration items and invoices. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved replacing MetWest with Dodge & Cox as fixed income manager (all in favor)
• Reaffirmed Investment Policy Statement with 60% equity, 35% fixed income, 5% real estate target allocation (all in favor)
• Approved disability retirement for Anthony Leca, firefighter, effective 9/16/2024 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of May 13, 2024 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved all Pension Administration items including memberships, withdrawals, retirements, and survivorships (all in favor)
• Approved invoices from Milliman, Shipman & Goodwin, and Pension Benefit Information totaling $12,547.50 (all in favor)

Human & Community Services Committee

The West Hartford Human & Community Services Committee will hold a virtual meeting on September 16, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The agenda consists solely of procedural items, including approval of minutes, communications, staff reports (library and leisure services updates), and future agenda planning. No substantive decisions or votes are scheduled.

Commission on the Arts

The West Hartford Commission on the Arts will discuss its activities over the past four years and consider where to focus its efforts going forward. Members may also propose items for exploration at the next commission meeting. No specific actions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Arts Commission's work over the last four years
• Discussion of future focus and priorities
• New Business: introduction of items for next meeting

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to review staff reports from the Police and Fire Departments. The meeting is primarily procedural with no specific ordinances or contracts listed for decision.

• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

Prevention Council

The West Hartford Prevention Council will consider several items, including the introduction of a newly hired Prevention Assistant, proposed format changes for the council, and a postvention training opportunity. The council will also review old business on the Recovery Friendly Community initiative and receive standing reports from Prevention, Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, and YSB (The Bridge). Public comment will be allowed before adjournment.

• Introduction of newly hired Prevention Assistant
• Proposed format changes for council meetings
• Postvention training opportunity
• Old Business – Recovery Friendly Community
• Standing reports from Prevention, Social Services, Public Health, Police, WHPS, YSB (The Bridge)

The West Hartford Prevention Council held a regular meeting featuring standing reports from local agencies, introductions of new staff, and discussions on recovery initiatives and training opportunities. The minutes do not record any formal votes or binding decisions taken by the council.

Fair Rent Commission

The Fair Rent Commission will meet to discuss administrative hearing guidelines and a specific rental dispute. The body will also hold an executive session to review an attorney-client privileged memorandum.

• Case #2024-05, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC
• Executive Session regarding attorney-client privileged memorandum
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines

The Fair Rent Commission held a special meeting on September 11, 2024, to hear Case #2024-05, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC. The complainant testified, and after deliberation, the commission unanimously found that an act of retaliation had occurred and issued a cease and desist order. The respondent was absent despite proper notice. The meeting also included approval of prior minutes and an executive session.

• Approved minutes from June 24, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss attorney-client privileged memorandum (unanimous)
• Found retaliation in Case #2024-05, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC (unanimous)
• Issued cease and desist order in Case #2024-05

Human Rights Commission

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission holds a special meeting to review its mission statement, discuss commission vacancies, and begin strategic planning. The meeting also includes a roundtable discussion and planning for the Park Road Parade and Universal Declaration of Human Rights celebration.

• Review of mission statement
• Discussion of commission vacancies
• Strategic planning session
• Planning for Park Road Parade (October 5, 2024)
• Celebration of Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The commission approved May 2024 minutes, appointed Alana Butler as Secretary, and discussed upcoming events including the final Park Road Parade and a Universal Declaration of Human Rights Day celebration. They also began strategic planning, identifying topics like gender-based violence and homelessness, and changed the next meeting date to October 8.

• Approved May 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Alana Butler as Secretary (unanimous)
• Agreed to work on Domestic Violence Awareness Month social media post (unanimous)
• Changed next meeting date to October 8, 2024 (unanimous)

Mayor's Youth Council

The Mayor’s Youth Council will open its new term by adopting meeting rules, reviewing last year’s work, and planning subcommittees for 2024-25. Members will also hear school reports, discuss October events, and hold elections for key leadership positions.

• 2023-2024 accomplishments review
• 2024-2025 subcommittee and community collaboration proposals
• Teen Leadership Conference on September 20 in Town Hall Room 400
• YA Forum on October 9 at Noah Webster Library Meeting Room
• Elections for Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, and five subcommittee chairs

The Mayor's Youth Council held a special meeting and voted to change its October meeting date from Tuesday, October 15 to Wednesday, October 16, 6-7 PM, due to student activity conflicts. The vote was 21 in favor, 3 against. Members also reviewed past accomplishments, announced 2024-2025 subcommittee themes, and discussed upcoming events.

• Changed October meeting date to Oct 16, 6-7 PM (21-3)
• Reviewed 2023-2024 accomplishments including Adopt-a-Family and poll working
• Announced 2024-2025 subcommittee themes: food insecurity, mental illness, holiday giving
• Set subcommittee size limit of 12 members
• Scheduled elections for Oct 16 with open positions including chair, co-chair, secretary

Town Council

The Town Council will consider several resolutions to appropriate grant funds for the library, behavioral health, and public safety. The body will also discuss a legal settlement and review real estate appraisals for property acquisition.

• Settlement of pending litigation: Nader Goudarzy and Mitra Goudarzy v. Town of West Hartford
• Appropriation of funds for West Hartford Library computers, furniture, and equipment
• Appropriation of grants for behavioral health, nuclear safety, and bulletproof vests
• Discussion of real estate appraisals for property acquisition
• Town Planner's intention to approve revisions for Prospect Plaza, Westfarms Mall, and Corporate Center West

The West Hartford Town Council approved multiple resolutions, including appropriating funds for library purchases, energy efficiency grants, and a settlement in pending litigation. All votes were unanimous (8-0). Several items were placed on consent calendars and adopted without objection.

• Approved library fund appropriation for computers, furniture, equipment, and services (8-0)
• Approved energy efficiency and conservation block grant appropriation (8-0)
• Approved nuclear safety emergency program grant appropriation (8-0)
• Approved settlement authorization in Goudarzy v. Town of West Hartford (8-0)
• Adopted consent calendar 1 including minutes and communications (8-0)
• Adopted consent calendar 2 including grant appropriations and resignations (8-0)
• Withdrew items 7M and 10F (real estate appraisal discussion and SDD#15 request)

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee is meeting to consider resolutions for appropriating various grant funds and energy rebates. The body will also receive an update on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and discuss specific tax appeals in executive session.

• Appropriation of West Hartford Library Fund for computers, furniture, equipment, and professional services
• Appropriation of grants for behavioral health services from Amplify, Inc. and North Central Area Agency on Aging
• Appropriation of FEMA funds for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program and Assistance to Firefighters Grant
• Authorization to suspend taxes owed on the 2020 Grand List for motor vehicles and personal property
• Tax appeals for 700 Farmington Avenue, 711 Farmington Avenue, 25 Stanley Street, and 23 Oakwood Avenue

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will discuss updates on the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan and specific bike and trail projects. Members will also review traffic data provided by the Town Engineer and reports on Vision Zero initiatives.

• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Park Road bike rack project update
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project update
• Discussion of Town Engineer traffic data on collector and arterial roads
• Engineering/Vision Zero update

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission voted unanimously to send letters to the Town Council and Town Manager, requesting updates on the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan and the formation of a Vision Zero Advisory Committee. The commission also discussed updates on bike racks, trail safety signs, and road safety audits, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved letter to Town Council requesting WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan update and reiterating support for option A plus Trout Brook Trail connection (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Town Manager highlighting importance of naming a Vision Zero Advisory Committee and requesting update (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities will review staff reports, including an update from the Town ADA Coordinator. It will also hear updates from the CERT Team and the Vision Zero Task Force. A guest speaker, Darlene Borre, will present. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next session for November 18, 2024.

• Staff Report: update from Suzanne Oslander, Town ADA Coordinator
• CERT Team update from Christy Miller
• Vision Zero Task Force update from Erin Conneely
• Guest speaker presentation by Darlene Borre

The regular meeting scheduled for September 9, 2024, was canceled due to a lack of quorum. No substantive decisions were made.

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The Public Works, Facilities and Sustainability Committee will meet virtually on September 5, 2024, to review minutes from prior meetings, receive staff updates on plant facilities, sustainability, and public works, and discuss future agenda items. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission is reviewing special use permit applications for a private school and a new clubhouse. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding a temporary classroom building at the Duffy School.

• Public hearing for a temporary 5,000 s.f. classroom building at the Duffy School (95 Westminster Drive)
• Application for a private school at 76 La Salle Road for classes for toddlers through upper elementary students
• Application for a +/- 32,650 Sq.Ft. clubhouse building and 30’ x 75’ tent at 60 Wampanoag Drive
• Fee waiver request from Wampanoag Country Club

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved a temporary special use permit for a 5,000 sq ft classroom building at Duffy School, with conditions including a review by September 2025. The commission also scheduled public hearings for October 7, 2024, on a private school at 76 LaSalle Road and a new clubhouse at Wampanoag Country Club. Minutes from the August 5, 2024 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved temporary SUP for 5,000 sq ft classroom at Duffy School (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for private school at 76 LaSalle Road (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Wampanoag Country Club clubhouse (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 5, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs will hold a special meeting to discuss items with the Director of Assessment. The body will also review commission vacancies and the Sterling Field Memorial.

• Discussion with Director of Assessment Joseph Dakers, Sr.
• Review of Commission vacancies
• Discussion regarding Sterling Field Memorial

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs met and approved the June 10, 2024 minutes unanimously. They heard a presentation from the Director of Assessment on state and town tax relief programs for veterans, and discussed a list of local option exemptions the town has not adopted. No formal decisions were made on tax policy; members will review the list and provide recommendations later. The commission also discussed filling a vacancy and reviewed a proposed memorial design.

• Approved minutes from June 10, 2024 (unanimous)
• Discussed tax relief programs; no action taken
• Reviewed list of unadopted local option exemptions; members to review and recommend
• Discussed commission vacancy; Steve Gorss applied to succeed John Keleher
• Reviewed Sterling Field Memorial images; no action taken

Design Review Advisory Committee

The Design Review Advisory Committee will hold study sessions for two potential land use applications. These sessions are preparatory to formal submissions for the redevelopment of two properties.

• 1800 Asylum Avenue: Proposed demolition of existing buildings and construction of 12 new commercial, mixed-use, and residential buildings
• 29 Highland Street: Proposed demolition of a former nursing home and construction of two multifamily residential buildings

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission will discuss a draft process for public communications and review reports from its working groups on outreach, nature‑based solutions, energy/buildings (including a meeting with Newman Architects at 1800 Asylum Ave), and waste. It will consider the appointment of new officers as several commissioners' terms expire in 2024 and 2025, and prepare a report to the Town Council required by Section 5‑77. A staff report and calendar updates, including the West Hartford EV Showcase on Oct 6 (rain date Oct 13), will also be presented.

• Draft process for commission communications (still in draft)
• Working group reports on communications, nature‑based solutions, energy/buildings (meeting with Newman Architects at 1800 Asylum Ave), and waste
• Appointment of new officers; terms expiring for commissioners on 12/31/2024 and 12/31/2025
• Report to Town Council per Section 5‑77 summarizing sustainability initiatives and recommendations
• Calendar update: West Hartford EV Showcase scheduled for Oct 6 (rain date Oct 13)

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission met and approved prior meeting minutes (6-0). Members discussed the Town Council's August 7 decision not to act on a one-year DEEP-funded unit-based pricing and food scrap program, with the town now considering voluntary curbside food scrap collection or 10-15 free drop-off locations. The commission also planned its annual report to the Town Council, discussed the upcoming EV Showcase on October 6, and noted the Sustainable CT application was submitted August 20 with Gold certification results expected in November.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (6-0)
• Noted Town Council declined to act on UBP + food scrap program on 8/7/24
• Discussed voluntary curbside food scrap collection and drop-off options
• Planned annual report to Town Council for late 2024
• Scheduled EV Showcase for Oct 6 at Town Hall (rain date Oct 13)
• Noted Sustainable CT application submitted Aug 20; Gold decision in November

Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Historic District Commission will consider two Certificate of Appropriateness applications. One application seeks approval to replace a deteriorated front concrete walkway at 1586 Boulevard. The other seeks approval to install two new mini‑split compressor units on the south side of the house at 141 Raymond Road. The meeting will also review the July 22, 2024 special meeting minutes and address routine business.

• Certificate of Appropriateness to replace front concrete walkway at 1586 Boulevard
• Certificate of Appropriateness to install two mini‑split compressor units at 141 Raymond Road

The West Hartford Historic District Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness: one for replacing a deteriorated concrete walkway with stone pavers at 1586 Boulevard, and another for installing two mini-split compressors at 141 Raymond. Both votes were unanimous. The commission also approved the minutes from the July 22, 2024 meeting.

• Approved Wilson COA for stone paver walkway at 1586 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved Chen COA for mini-split compressors at 141 Raymond (unanimous)
• Approved July 22, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Civilian Police Review Board

The board will meet to elect its officers and review the minutes from May 15, 2024. The primary focus of the meeting is the review and evaluation of two West Hartford Police Department internal investigations.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Review of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-02
• Review of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-03

The Civilian Police Review Board unanimously approved the May 15, 2024 meeting minutes and elected Olinda Morales as Chair, Bjorn Burke as Vice Chair, and Kathleen Hindman as Secretary, each by 7-0 votes. The board also voted unanimously to sustain the findings of two West Hartford Police Department internal investigations (2024-02 and 2024-03). No other substantive decisions were made; the board noted two professional standards investigations are in progress.

• Approved May 15, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Elected Olinda Morales as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Bjorn Burke as Vice Chair (7-0)
• Elected Kathleen Hindman as Secretary (7-0)
• Sustained findings of Internal Investigation 2024-02 (7-0)
• Sustained findings of Internal Investigation 2024-03 (7-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission will meet to vote on endorsing a revised Bicycle Facilities Plan. The body will also receive updates on the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan and Vision Zero engineering.

• Vote to endorse Bicycle Facilities Plan revision
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Park Road bike rack project update (on hold)
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project update (on hold)
• Request for speed data on collector and arterial roads

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission unanimously endorsed the Bicycle Plan and Facility Selection & Design Guide 2024 (8/1/24 draft) after discussing revisions. The commission also approved a motion to request annual speed and volume data for collector and arterial roads starting in 2023. Several project updates were provided, including construction progress on Trout Brook Trail phase 3 and ongoing design work for New Park Avenue.

• Endorsed Bicycle Plan and Facility Selection & Design Guide 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved annual request for speed and volume data on collector and arterial roads (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a townwide unit‑based pricing program for trash and curbside waste collection. No vote or decision is indicated on the agenda. The meeting is scheduled for August 7, 2024 at 8:00 AM.

• Discussion of a townwide unit‑based pricing trash and curbside waste collection program

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider a resolution that authorizes the acceptance of easements. The easements would support an infrastructure improvement project at 1800 Asylum Avenue and 1710 Asylum Avenue. The council will discuss and potentially adopt the resolution during this meeting.

• Resolution authorizing acceptance of easements for infrastructure improvement at 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Resolution authorizing acceptance of easements for infrastructure improvement at 1710 Asylum Avenue

The Town Council held a public hearing on a resolution to accept temporary and permanent easements for an infrastructure project at 1800 and 1710 Asylum Avenue. No public comments were made, and the hearing was closed without a vote. The Town Plan and Zoning Commission had recommended approval 5-0.

• Public hearing opened and closed for easement resolution (no vote taken)
• No written or oral public comments received
• Town Plan and Zoning Commission recommended approval 5-0

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider an amendment to Special Development District (SDD) #6, known as the Corbin Collection. The amendment would allow a new indoor recreation or amusement facility with a restaurant in the former Sears building, including façade, signage, and site modifications.

• Amendment to SDD #6 for indoor recreation/amusement facility with restaurant in former Sears building
• Proposed improvements include façade, signage, and site modifications

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on August 6, 2024, to consider an application by SF WH Property Owner, LLC to amend Special Development District (SDD) #6 (the Corbin Collection) to allow increased signage for a proposed indoor recreation and amusement facility with a restaurant (Level99) in the upper level of the former Sears building. The hearing was informational; no vote was taken. The applicant presented the signage changes, noted positive recommendations from the Design Review Advisory Committee and the Town Plan and Zoning Commission, and no public comments were made. The hearing was closed without a decision.

• Public hearing held on SDD #6 amendment for Level99 signage (no vote taken)
• No public comments received
• Hearing closed at 6:34 p.m.

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will meet to approve minutes, discuss unfinished business including a proposal to amend the Special Development District for the Corbin Collection to allow an indoor recreation facility, and appoint new members to the Town Plan & Zoning Commission and Civilian Police Review Board.

• Amendment to Special Development District #6 (Corbin Collection) for indoor recreation/amusement facility with restaurant at former Sears building
• Resolution authorizing easements for infrastructure improvements on 1800 Asylum Avenue and 1710 Asylum Avenue
• Appointment of Gordon Binkhorst to Town Plan & Zoning Commission (term to 2029)
• Appointment of Joseph Righenzi as Alternate Member of Civilian Police Review Board (term to 2026)
• Communication from Rachael Virgin resigning from Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Town Council approved an amendment to Special Development District #6 (Corbin Collection) to allow a new indoor recreation or amusement facility with a restaurant in the former Sears building, including facade, signage, and site modifications. The motion carried 9-0 with zoning alternates seated. The council also adopted a consent calendar including minutes, easement acceptance, and appointments, and entered executive session to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved SDD #6 amendment for indoor recreation/restaurant at Corbin Collection (9-0)
• Adopted consent calendar including minutes, easement acceptance, and appointments (7-0)
• Approved easement acceptance for infrastructure project at 1800 and 1710 Asylum Avenue (7-0)
• Reappointed Gordon Binkhorst to Town Plan & Zoning Commission (consent)
• Appointed Joseph Righenzi as alternate to Civilian Police Review Board (consent)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy (7-0)

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The West Hartford Town Plan and Zoning Commission will review several permit applications at this meeting, including a temporary classroom building at Duffy School, a large mixed-use redevelopment at 1800 Asylum Avenue, and a new indoor recreation facility at Level 99. The commission will also consider a withdrawn application for a sports field at 137 North Main Street and a retroactive permit for a sport court at 11 Winterset Lane.

• 95 Westminster Drive: Temporary classroom building (~5,000 s.f.) at Duffy School (SUP #1455)
• 1800 Asylum Avenue: Mixed-use redevelopment with 12 new buildings, demolition of former UConn campus, and wetland impacts (IWW #1225)
• 1445 New Britain Avenue: Special Use Permit for new Indoor Recreation or Amusement Facility at Level 99 (SUP #1453)
• 11 Winterset Lane: Retroactive approval for sport court and new rain garden (IWW #1227)
• 1800 & 1710 Asylum Avenue: Resolution to accept easements for infrastructure improvements

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission conditionally approved an Inland Wetlands permit for the redevelopment of the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue, including demolition and construction of 12 new buildings. The commission also approved a special use permit for an indoor recreation facility at 1445 New Britain Avenue (Level 99) and recommended approval of a Special Development District amendment for the same property. A request to withdraw the special use permit application for 137 North Main Street was received.

• Conditionally approved Inland Wetlands permit IWW#1225 for 1800 Asylum Ave redevelopment (4-1)
• Approved Special Use Permit SUP#1453 for indoor recreation facility at 1445 New Britain Ave (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Special Development District amendment for 1445 New Britain Ave (5-0)
• Recommended approval of resolution accepting easements for infrastructure at 1800 and 1710 Asylum Ave (5-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for Aug 19, 2024 to hear temporary classroom at Duffy School (5-0)
• Received withdrawal of SUP#1448 for 137 North Main St (4-1)
• Approved minutes of July 1 and July 17, 2024 meetings (4-0, 5-0)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The Design Review Advisory Committee unanimously approved a referral from the Town Council to amend Special Design District #6 (Corbin Collection) to accommodate Level 99, a new indoor recreation/amusement facility with a restaurant in the former Sears building. The approval was subject to the applicant reducing main tenant signage by 10%. The committee also unanimously recommended approval of the West Hartford Wayfinding Signage Study and approved the June 27, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved SDD #6 amendment for Level 99 at 1445 New Britain Ave (6-0), subject to 10% signage reduction
• Recommended approval of West Hartford Wayfinding Signage Study (unanimous)
• Approved June 27, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, Hines and Pang abstained)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The West Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting and public hearing to discuss and vote on a petition for a special exception renewal. The petition seeks to continue operating an Alexander Technique therapy business as a home occupation at 55 Arnoldale Road for three years. The public hearing was previously opened and continued from the June 26, 2024 meeting.

• Special exception renewal for home occupation at 55 Arnoldale Road (R-6 Zone)
• Alexander Technique therapy business as accessory use for 3 years per section 177-49(C)
• Discussion and vote on petition #08-24
• Approval of minutes from June 26, 2024 regular meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5-0 to grant Vanessa Justice a special exception renewal to operate an Alexander Technique business as a home occupation at 55 Arnoldale Road. The approval includes conditions on hours, parking, signage, and a three-year term. The board also approved the minutes from the June 26, 2024 meeting and adjourned.

• Granted special exception renewal for home occupation at 55 Arnoldale Rd (5-0)
• Approved minutes from June 26, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The West Hartford Parks & Recreation Advisory Board is meeting to discuss updates on capital improvements and summer programs, and to plan fall/winter programs and events. The board will also hear reports on sustainability projects, a tree canopy study, and the Friends of West Hartford Parks. Public comment is scheduled.

• Capital Improvements update
• Fall/Winter Programs: brochure online August 8, registration opens August 14 at noon
• Fall Events: Rockledge Centennial Celebration (Sept 6), Feast on the Farm (Sept 27), Westmoor Park Fiftieth Festival (Oct 19)
• Sustainability Projects and upcoming Tree Canopy Study
• Friends of West Hartford Parks Report

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board meeting was largely informational, with no formal votes taken beyond adopting the previous minutes. Staff provided updates on capital improvements including the Rockledge Driving Range, Wolcott Park improvements, and a two-year pond dredging plan. The board also discussed upcoming fall/winter programs and events.

• Adopted May 20, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Noted Rockledge Driving Range envelope bids due July 23
• Noted Wolcott Park Phase Two underway, Phase Three planned
• Noted pond dredging plans for Buena Vista, Beachland, Wolcott
• Noted fall/winter brochure online August 8, registration August 14
• Noted Pooch Plunge August 19, Rockledge Centennial September 6
• Noted tree canopy study bid closes August 8

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission held a special meeting on July 22, 2024, approving prior minutes (8-0) and discussing a draft process for handling public communications, but deferred the vote to the next meeting. The Commission also reviewed sustainability concerns for the proposed 1800 Asylum Ave development, including stormwater, tree loss, and impervious surface increases, and discussed next steps for the UBP and Food Scrap diversion pilot, which requires an ordinance. No formal votes were taken on these substantive items.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (8-0)
• Deferred vote on communications process to next meeting
• Discussed sustainability issues for 1800 Asylum Ave development, no action taken
• Noted ordinance in progress for UBP and Food Scrap diversion pilot, no vote

Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Historic District Commission held a special meeting to discuss historic district management and tax credits with the State Historic Preservation Office. The only new business item was a Certificate of Appropriateness application to replace deteriorated front porch wood decking at 1569 Boulevard. The meeting also included the review of minutes from the June 24, 2024 regular meeting.

• Certificate of Appropriateness application for front porch wood decking replacement at 1569 Boulevard
• Information session on Historic District Management and Historic Home Tax Credits by SHPO representatives Mary Dunne and Erin Fink
• Review of June 24, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes

The West Hartford Historic District Commission held a special meeting on July 22, 2024, and approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing deteriorated Fir decking boards on the front porch of 1569 Boulevard. The commission also heard presentations from Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) guest speakers on expanding historic districts and the Historic Home Tax Credit Program. The minutes from the June 24, 2024 regular meeting were approved, and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for porch decking replacement at 1569 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes of June 24, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:42 p.m. (unanimous)

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission is holding a special meeting to continue the public hearing for an Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit application. The applicant, WEHA Development Group, LLC, proposes demolishing existing structures at the former UConn Campus site to build 12 new commercial, mixed-use, and residential buildings. The project includes a new private roadway, surface parking, and site drainage improvements that impact regulated wetland areas. The hearing was previously continued from June 24, 2024, without testimony.

• Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit application (IWW #1225) for 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Proposal to demolish existing buildings and construct 12 new commercial/mixed-use and residential buildings
• Project includes a new private roadway, surface parking lots, and site drainage within the 150 ft upland review area
• Public hearing continued from June 24, 2024, to July 17, 2024

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission continued the public hearing regarding a permit application for the redevelopment of the former UConn Campus. No final decision was made on the application.

• Continued public hearing for 1800 Asylum Avenue application to August 5, 2024 (5-0)

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is holding a public hearing to consider a resolution authorizing the acceptance of easements to support an infrastructure improvement project at 1800 Asylum Avenue and 1710 Asylum Avenue. The meeting includes a presentation on the resolution, followed by public comments and adjournment.

• Resolution authorizing acceptance of easements for infrastructure project at 1800 Asylum Avenue and 1710 Asylum Avenue
• Public hearing with opportunity for public comments

The Town Council held a public hearing regarding the acceptance of easements for an infrastructure improvement project at 1800 and 1710 Asylum Avenue. No presentation or testimony was taken, and the hearing was continued to August 6, 2024.

• Continued public hearing on Asylum Avenue easements to August 6, 2024

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will consider approving collective bargaining agreements with the police officer's association and the public safety dispatchers unit, along with appropriating unexpended capital funds. The meeting also includes proclamations, a public forum, and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Resolution approving CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Public Safety Dispatchers Unit contract, July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2027
• Resolution approving West Hartford Police Officer's Association contract, July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2028
• Resolution appropriating unexpended funds in FY 2023-2024 Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Budget
• Approval of Town Council meeting minutes from June 25, 2024
• Approval of public hearing minutes from June 25, 2024 on Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit programs

The Town Council approved collective bargaining agreements for public safety dispatchers and police officers. The Council also appropriated unexpended funds from the 2023-2024 Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Budget.

• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement with CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Public Safety Dispatchers Unit for 2021-2027 (9-0)
• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement with West Hartford Police Officer's Association for 2024-2028 (9-0)
• Approved appropriation of unexpended funds in the FY 2023-2024 Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Budget (9-0)
• Approved June 25, 2024 Town Council and Public Hearing minutes (9-0)

Finance & Administration Committee

The West Hartford Finance & Administration Committee will approve the minutes from June 4, 2024, and vote on a resolution to appropriate unexpended funds in the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Budget. The meeting includes a Finance Department update and an executive session to discuss a pending tax appeal involving 109 South Main Street.

• Approval of minutes from June 4, 2024
• Resolution appropriating unexpended funds in the FY 2023-2024 Capital and Non-Recurring Expenditure Budget
• Executive session to discuss tax appeal: 109 South Main Street West v. Town of West Hartford, Docket No. HHB-CV-22-6072771

Public Safety Committee

The committee will meet to approve the minutes from May 1, 2024. The agenda includes a review of the Civilian Police Review Board Annual Report for FY 2023-2024 and updates from the Fire and Police Departments.

• Approval of May 1, 2024 minutes
• Civilian Police Review Board FY 2023-2024 Annual Report
• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The West Hartford Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission will review status updates on the Bicycle Facilities Plan and the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan. Several items, including the Park Road bike rack project, Trout Brook Trail safety markings, and a speed data request, remain on hold. The agenda also covers Vision Zero engineering updates, Planning and Zoning reports, and a discussion on whether boulevard restriping provides traffic calming benefits for residents. No formal votes or contracts are scheduled.

• Bicycle Facilities Plan revision update
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Park Road bike rack project (on hold)
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs and marking project (on hold)
• Discussion on traffic calming benefits from boulevard restriping

The commission approved its previous meeting's minutes unanimously, then heard updates on the Bicycle Facilities Plan, Vision Zero paving projects, and several ongoing items. Commissioners and the public discussed wanting time goals for building out the bicycle network and possibly seeking grants to fund bike infrastructure outside the road repaving schedule. No substantive decisions were voted on; several projects (Park Road bike racks, Trout Brook Trail signs, speed data request, P&Z update, out-of-state reports) were reported as on hold or with no news.

• Approved previous meeting's minutes unanimously
• No vote recorded on Bicycle Facilities Plan time goals; discussion only
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan: no news
• Park Road bike rack project: on hold
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project: on hold
• Request for speed data on collector and arterial roads: on hold
• P&Z update: no update
• Reports from Hoboken, NJ and Naples, FL: on hold

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission is reviewing several special use permit applications including a new indoor recreation facility at 1445 New Britain Avenue and security upgrades for Wolcott School. Other items include a pool reconfiguration at The Hartford Golf Club and a sports field project at 137 North Main Street.

• Special Use Permit for Level 99 indoor recreation facility at 1445 New Britain Avenue
• Special Use Permit for Wolcott School security, office addition, and vehicle bypass lane
• Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit for a sport court and rain garden at 11 Winterset Lane
• Special Use Permit for pool and hardscape reconfiguration at 134 Norwood Road
• Special Use Permit for a new natural turf sports field at 137 North Main Street

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved a Special Use Permit for security and site improvements at Wolcott School, including a 1,459 square foot addition to the main office and building entry area, a new vehicle bypass lane, and additional parking. The commission also approved a Special Use Permit for The Hartford Golf Club to reconfigure its outdoor pool area with a new pool and hardscape. Several other applications were opened and continued to August 5, 2024, and the minutes of the June 3 and June 24 meetings were approved.

• Approved minutes of June 3, 2024 regular meeting (3-0)
• Approved minutes of June 24, 2024 special meeting (3-0)
• Received request to open and continue IWW #1227 for 11 Winterset Lane (5-0)
• Received request to open and continue IWW #1448 for 137 North Main Street (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for SUP #1453 at 1445 New Britain Avenue for August 5, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved SUP #1446 for 71 Wolcott Road (Wolcott School) with conditions (5-0)
• Opened and continued IWW #1227 for 11 Winterset Lane to August 5, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved SUP #1449 for 134 Norwood Road (Hartford Golf Club) with conditions (5-0)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold a study session regarding a potential Special Development District application. The proposed project at 1800 Asylum Avenue involves demolishing existing buildings to construct twelve new commercial, mixed-use, and residential buildings.

• Redevelopment of the western portion of the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Proposed demolition of all existing buildings
• Construction of twelve new buildings including commercial, mixed-use, and residential units
• New private roadway, surface parking lots, and site improvements

The committee held a study session to review design updates for the proposed redevelopment of the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue. The design team presented revisions to building orientations, parking layouts, and architectural features in response to previous committee feedback. No formal approvals were granted for the project, as the meeting was preparatory for a future Special Development District application.

• Approved May 23, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on four petitions regarding residential uses and property variances. Items include requests for home-based businesses and structural expansions at several local addresses.

• 98 Walbridge Road: Special Exception for a counseling/psycho-therapy home occupation
• 55 Arnoldale Road: Special Exception renewal for an Alexander Technique home occupation
• 2 Bososwell Road: Three variances for a two-story addition and heat pump installation
• 3115 Albany Avenue: Two variances to expand habitable space in an existing observatory

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a one-year special exception for a home counseling/psycho-therapy office at 98 Walbridge Road, despite seven neighbors speaking in opposition. It also granted two variances at 2 Boswell Road for a two-story addition and at 3115 Albany Avenue to expand an existing observatory, raising building height to 42.34 feet. A public hearing for a home occupation at 55 Arnoldale Road was opened and continued to July 24, 2024, due to a posting issue. All decisions were recorded as 5-0 except the Albany Avenue variance, which passed 4-1.

• Approved one-year special exception for home counseling office at 98 Walbridge Road (5-0), with conditions on hours, parking, employees, signage, and appointments
• Continued public hearing for home occupation at 55 Arnoldale Road to July 24, 2024, due to posting issue (5-0)
• Approved two variances for a two-story addition at 2 Boswell Road (5-0); third heat pump variance was removed by applicant
• Approved two variances at 3115 Albany Avenue to expand observatory and increase building height to 42.34 feet (4-1, Kalvaitis opposed)
• Approved minutes of May 29, 2024 regular meeting (4-0, Harris abstained)
• Adjourned at 9:32 p.m.

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding a resolution to approve programs eligible for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program. The meeting includes a presentation on this resolution followed by public comments.

• Resolution approving programs eligible for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on a resolution approving programs eligible for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program. No residents spoke during the public comment period. The meeting adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Public hearing on Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit resolution held
• No public comments received
• Meeting adjourned (8-0)

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will review resolutions covering a curbside food scrap pricing pilot, updated fees for the Cornerstone Aquatics Center and Veterans Memorial Skating Rink, and easements for Asylum Avenue infrastructure work. The council will also consider a zoning amendment for the former Sears building at the Corbin Collection, approve a tax credit program, and settle pending litigation. Additionally, the council will fill a vacancy on the Civilian Police Review Board.

• Resolution on curbside food scrap collection and unit-based pricing pilot program
• Fee schedule revision for Cornerstone Aquatics Center and Veterans Memorial Skating Rink
• Acceptance of easements for infrastructure improvements at 1800 and 1710 Asylum Avenue
• Application to amend Special Design District #6 (Corbin Collection/former Sears building) for a new indoor recreation facility
• Resolution to settle pending litigation in Elizabeth Rosenberg v. Town of West Hartford

The West Hartford Town Council approved revised fees for the Cornerstone Aquatics Center and Veterans Memorial Skating Rink. The Council also authorized a legal settlement and referred two development projects to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission for future public hearings.

• Approved revised fee schedule for aquatics and skating facilities (8-0)
• Authorized settlement of Elizabeth Rosenberg v. Town of West Hartford (8-0)
• Referred Asylum Avenue infrastructure easements to TPZ for July 16 hearing (8-0)
• Referred Corbin Collection development application to TPZ for August 6 hearing (8-0)
• Approved Neighborhood Assistance Act tax credit programs (8-0)
• Appointed Steve Adler to Civilian Police Review Board (8-0)
• Accepted resignation of Dennis Swanton from Police Review Board (8-0)
• Withdrew food scrap collection and unit-based pricing pilot resolution

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission is holding a public hearing regarding an Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit application for 1800 Asylum Avenue. The proposal involves demolishing existing buildings to construct twelve new commercial, mixed-use, and residential buildings. This application will be opened and immediately continued to July 17, 2024.

• Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit for 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Demolition of all existing buildings at the former UConn Campus
• Construction of twelve new commercial, mixed-use, and residential buildings
• Proposed private roadway, surface parking, and site drainage improvements

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission held a special meeting on June 24, 2024, with three commissioners and two alternates present. The only item was an Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit application (IWW #1225) from WEHA Development Group, LLC for redevelopment of the former UConn Campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue. The commission voted 5-0 to open the public hearing and immediately continue it to a special meeting on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 6:00 PM in Room 314 of Town Hall. No decision on the merits of the application was made; the meeting adjourned at 6:17 PM by a 5-0 vote.

• Opened and immediately continued the 1800 Asylum Avenue wetlands permit hearing (IWW #1225) to July 17, 2024 (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:17 PM (5-0)

Library Board

The Board will review the Service Animals Policy and receive a report on Strategic Plan Implementation. The meeting also includes administrative and budget reports.

• Policy Review – Service Animals Policy
• Strategic Plan Implementation update
• Library Administrative and Budget reports

The Library Board unanimously approved the cancellation of meetings for July and August 2024. They also approved the May 2024 minutes and reviewed the Service Animal Policy, concluding no changes are needed. Staff reported on strategic plan progress and upcoming summer events.

• Approved cancellation of July and August meetings (unanimous)
• Approved May 20, 2024 minutes via consent agenda (unanimous)
• Reviewed Service Animal Policy; no changes recommended
• Adjourned meeting at 7:05 p.m. (unanimous)

Fair Rent Commission

The West Hartford Fair Rent Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss meeting procedures, administrative hearing guidelines, and two ongoing rent-related cases. The body will also convene in executive session to review an attorney-client privileged memorandum. The agenda lists items for discussion and case continuation rather than final votes. As a Fair Rent Commission, the body’s work on hearing guidelines and rent disputes directly affects West Hartford tenants and landlords.

• Continuation of Case #2024-03, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC
• Review of Case #2024-04, Gabriel v. 4 Sisters Forest, LLC
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines
• Executive session to discuss an attorney-client privileged memorandum
• Approval of minutes from the June 4, 2024 meeting

The Commission denied a request to reopen case #2024-03, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC, and ordered the release of the complainant's escrow funds. In case #2024-04, Gabriel v. 4 Sisters Forest, LLC, the Commission voted against reducing the complainant's rent and against declaring the rent increase unconscionable. The Commission ultimately voted to dismiss the Gabriel case without prejudice.

• Approved June 4, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied motion to reopen case #2024-03 (unanimous)
• Ordered release of complainant's June check from escrow (unanimous)
• Denied motion to reduce rent in Gabriel v. 4 Sisters Forest, LLC (1-4)
• Denied motion declaring rent increase unconscionable (1-3)
• Dismissed Gabriel v. 4 Sisters Forest, LLC without prejudice (4-1)

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The commission will review minutes from the May 13, 2024, meeting and receive staff updates regarding the ADA Coordinator, CERT Team, and Vision Zero Task Force. Jennifer Jenkins from Disability Rights Connecticut is scheduled as a guest speaker.

• Staff report from Suzanne Oslander, Town ADA Coordinator
• CERT Team update from Christy Miller
• Vision Zero Task Force update from Erin Conneely
• Guest Speaker: Jennifer Jenkins, Senior Advocate from Disability Rights Connecticut

The commission approved the minutes from its May 13, 2024, meeting and received a presentation from Disability Rights Connecticut regarding vocational rehabilitation services. No other substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Approved May 13, 2024 meeting minutes

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The commission will discuss support for the West Hartford Center Plan and potential meeting topics regarding 1800 Asylum Ave. The meeting includes reports from working groups on energy, waste, and nature-based solutions.

• Discussion/vote on support for West Hartford Center Plan
• Discussion/input on 1800 Asylum Ave.
• Working Group Reports: Communications & Outreach, Nature-Based Solutions, Energy / Buildings, and Waste
• Town Council vote on UBP 1-year pilot scheduled for 6/25

The Commission voted 6-1 to send a letter supporting the Pedestrian Bicycle Commission's position on the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Plan. Town Manager Rick Ledwith reported that the Town Council vote on the Unit-Based Pricing (UBP) pilot was postponed due to legal advice requiring simultaneous resolution and ordinance votes. The Commission also deferred discussions on prior meeting minutes approval and staff reports.

• Approved sending letter of support for West Hartford Center Infrastructure Plan (6-1)
• Town Council vote on Unit-Based Pricing pilot postponed from 6/25 agenda
• Approval of prior meeting minutes approved (6-0)
• Discussion on communications process deferred
• Staff report deferred

Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Historic District Commission will review two Certificate of Appropriateness applications for exterior property changes. One request proposes a new storage shed at 37 Buena Vista Road, and the other proposes replacing wooden steps and a walkway with bluestone and pavers at 1630 Boulevard. Certificate of Appropriateness applications require commission approval before exterior modifications can proceed. These items are pending review; no final decisions are recorded in this agenda.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for a new shed at 37 Buena Vista Road by Roxanne Stachelek
• Certificate of Appropriateness to replace steps and walkway at 1630 Boulevard by Elizabeth Ann Carabillo
• Review of March 25 and May 20, 2024 meeting minutes

The West Hartford Historic District Commission unanimously approved two Certificates of Appropriateness. One application allowed for a new wooden storage shed at the West Hartford Art League, and the other permitted stone step and walkway replacements at a private residence. The commission also approved previous meeting minutes and scheduled a future session with state historic preservation experts.

• Approved Stachelek COA for wooden shed at 37 Buena Vista Road (unanimous)
• Approved Carabillo COA for bluestone steps and pavers at 1630 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved March 25 and May 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Scheduled July 22 meeting with CT State Historic Preservation Office

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Committee will review minutes from the May 15, 2024 meeting and discuss easement requests for infrastructure improvements at 1800 and 1710 Asylum Ave. The agenda also includes updates on the Affordable Housing Program and wayfinding signage.

• Easements over 1800 Asylum Ave and 1710 Asylum Ave
• Affordable Housing Program Update
• Wayfinding Signage Update

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will review previous minutes and receive reports on social services, senior jobs, transportation, and senior centers. The agenda includes a presentation on assisting socially isolated seniors and a discussion regarding fall speakers.

• Seniors Job Bank report
• Transportation for Seniors report
• Senior Centers report
• Presentation on ASSIST: Assisting Socially Isolated Seniors To Thrive
• Discussion of Fall 2024 SCAC Speakers Commission

The Commission approved the May 21 minutes and received updates on senior services. Social Services reported that Dial-a-Ride rides are limited to two per week until June 30 due to budget constraints, with a fee increase from $50 to $65 for the new fiscal year starting July 1. The Senior Centers announced that the $15 annual membership fee for West Hartford residents will be waived starting July 1, 2024. No new ordinances or zoning changes were voted on during this meeting.

• Approved May 21, 2024 meeting minutes as written
• Reported Dial-a-Ride limited to two rides/week until 6/30/24
• Reported Dial-a-Ride fee increase from $50 to $65 for new fiscal year
• Announced waiver of $15 Senior Centers fee for residents starting 7/1/24
• Scheduled next meeting for September 17, 2024

Human & Community Services Committee

The Human & Community Services Committee will review a resolution to revise the schedule of fees for various recreation facilities. Staff will also provide updates regarding Library Services and Leisure & Social Services.

• Resolution revising the schedule of fees for various recreation facilities
• Library Services update
• Leisure & Social Services update

Commission on the Arts

The Commission is reviewing several ongoing projects including an update on 'The Hub' arts maker space business plan. Discussion items also include a Places & Spaces Plan regarding Hartford Baking Company and a memo regarding the state of the arts in West Hartford.

• Update on Business Plan for 'The Hub' arts maker space
• Places & Spaces Plan (Hartford Baking Company)
• Artist Survey release update
• Memo to TOWH regarding State of the Arts in WH

The Commission met to discuss several ongoing projects, including an artist survey and a business plan for an arts maker space called "The Hub." No formal actions were taken or votes recorded due to a lack of quorum.

• Approval of April meeting minutes: no vote taken due to lack of quorum

Prevention Council

This meeting was scheduled to include updates on social services, public health, and police reports. However, the agenda indicates that the meeting has been canceled.

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will vote on resolutions approving two collective bargaining agreements for CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 workers through June 30, 2025. The council will also consider authorizing a settlement for an active lawsuit against the town and approve budget amendments that include capital funds for a Rockledge Golf Club aerator. These actions determine labor terms for municipal employees who provide daily services, resolve legal liabilities affecting local government funds, and direct spending on community development grants and park equipment.

• Resolution approving a collective bargaining agreement with CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Professional and Management Unit (July 1, 2021–June 30, 2025)
• Resolution approving a collective bargaining agreement with CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Building Maintenance Unit (July 1, 2021–June 30, 2025)
• Resolution authorizing settlement of pending litigation: Carolyn Turner v. Town of West Hartford (Docket HHD-CV-22-6154914)
• Resolution appropriating capital funds to purchase an aerator at the Rockledge Golf Club
• Resolution amending Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budgets for Community Development Block Grant Funds and The Capital Projects Fund

The Town Council approved contracts for the CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Professional and Management and Building Maintenance units. The Council also authorized a legal settlement and the purchase of equipment for Rockledge Golf Club.

• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement for CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Professional and Management Unit (8-1)
• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement for CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 Building Maintenance Unit (8-1)
• Authorized Corporation Counsel to settle litigation: Carolyn Turner v. Town of West Hartford (9-0)
• Approved appropriation of Capital Non-Recurring Expense Funds for a Rockledge Golf Club aerator (9-0)
• Approved amendments to FY 2023-2024 Community Development Block Grant and Capital Projects budgets (9-0)
• Approved May 28, 2024 Town Council and Public Hearing minutes (9-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review progress on several ongoing projects including the Bicycle Facilities Plan and the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan. Members will also receive updates on the Park Road bike rack project and Trout Brook Trail safety markings.

• Bicycle Facilities Plan revision update
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Park Road bike rack project update
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project update
• Request for speed data on collector and arterial roads

The commission unanimously approved a motion to request volume and speed data from the Town Engineer for collector and arterial roads. The Bicycle Facilities Plan revision remains under discussion, with a vote scheduled for July, while the commission continues to push for Vision Zero and High Injury Network inclusion. Updates were provided on the West Hartford Center infrastructure plan and local bike projects, but no new ordinances were passed.

• Approved previous meeting's minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to request speed and traffic data from Town Engineer (unanimous)
• Scheduled vote on Bicycle Facilities Plan for July meeting
• Tabled reports from Hoboken, NJ and Naples, FL

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission will discuss the Spring Resource Fair debrief and current commission vacancies. Members will also address the Sterling Field Memorial and a new community center space dedicated to veterans.

• Debrief of Spring Resource Fair
• Status of Commission Vacancies
• Sterling Field Memorial
• Community Center Space Dedicated to West Hartford Veterans

The commission approved the minutes from the April 16, 2024 meeting. Members reviewed the May 11 Spring Resource Fair and discussed the status of commission vacancies and the Sterling Field Memorial.

• Approved April 16, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will review the West Hartford Unit Based Pricing and Food Scrap Collection Implementation Plan. Staff reports regarding public works, facilities, and sustainability are also scheduled.

• West Hartford Unit Based Pricing and Food Scrap Collection Implementation Plan

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will review a resolution to purchase an aerator for Rockledge Golf Club and several budget amendments. The committee will also enter executive session regarding a tax appeal for 2550 Albany Avenue.

• Resolution to purchase an aerator at the Rockledge Golf Club
• Budget amendments for Community Development Block Grant funds
• Budget amendments for the Capital Projects Fund
• Executive session regarding Bishop’s Plaza, LLC v. Town of West Hartford (2550 Albany Avenue)

Fair Rent Commission

The Commission will review administrative hearing guidelines and continue Case #2024-03, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC. The meeting includes a call to order and the approval of minutes from the April 25, 2024 meeting.

• Continuation of Case #2024-03, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines

The Commission continued Case #2024-03 (Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC), reading a health district affidavit into the record. The Commission decided to release the complainant's May rent while holding June rent in escrow. A continuance was granted to determine if the respondent complied with a previous order regarding the rent database portal.

• Approved February 29, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted 4-2 that Respondent in Case #2024-03 was provided notice and opportunity to present their case
• Approved release of Complainant's May rent (unanimous)
• Approved holding June rent in escrow (unanimous)
• Granted continuance for Case #2024-03 to June 24 at 6:30 pm (unanimous)

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will review several applications involving wetlands permits and special use permits. Items include a sports court at 11 Winterset Lane, a pool reconfiguration at 134 Norwood Road, and a new turf field at 137 North Main Street. The Wolcott School security and site improvement application will be opened and immediately continued to the July meeting.

• 11 Winterset Lane: Retroactive approval for a sport court and a new rain garden
• 134 Norwood Road: Inland Wetlands permit and Special Use Permit for a new pool and hardscape
• 137 North Main Street: Special Use Permit to construct a natural turf sports field
• 71 Wolcott Road: Special Use Permit for school office addition, vehicle bypass lane, and parking

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission and Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency approved a conditional wetlands permit for pool and hardscape reconfigurations at 134 Norwood Road. The commission also scheduled public hearings for two special use permits and continued a Wolcott School security improvement application to July 1, 2024. Additionally, the commission designated a sport court application at 11 Winterset Lane as potentially significant and set it for a July public hearing.

• Approved May 6, 2024 regular meeting minutes (5-0)
• Received communication regarding SUP #1446 for 71 Wolcott Road (5-0)
• Found application IWW #1227 for 11 Winterset Lane potentially significant and set public hearing for July 1, 2024 (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetlands permit IWW #1228 for 134 Norwood Road (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for SUP #1449 at 134 Norwood Road for July 1, 2024 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for SUP #1448 at 137 North Main Street for July 1, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued SUP #1446 for 71 Wolcott Road to July 1, 2024 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:32 P.M. (5-0)

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The Commission will discuss community comments regarding tree removals, waste, and the Climate Action Plan. The agenda includes reports from various working groups and updates on upcoming town events.

• Community comment on tree removals on Blvd
• Community comment on West Hartford Center Plan
• Working Group Reports: Communications & Outreach, Nature-Based Solutions, Energy / Buildings, and Waste
• Staff Report regarding Sustainable CT and federal program funding
• Postponed discussion of Town Equity Coordinator scheduled for June 24

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission approved prior meeting minutes (10-0) and received a presentation from Town Clerk Leon Davidoff on FOIA and procedures. The Commission deferred a decision on whether to support Option A for the West Hartford Center plan to its next meeting, and also deferred its staff report to a future meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; new business was none.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (10-0)
• Deferred decision on supporting Option A for West Hartford Center plan to next meeting
• Deferred staff report (including Sustainable CT and federal program funding) to next meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on a variance request for a residential property. The petition seeks to allow an approximately 5.5’ x 24’ addition by reducing the required side yard setback.

• Variance request for 4 Sunny Slope Drive to reduce side yard setback by approximately 1.1’
• Approval of minutes from the April 17, 2024 meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance for a home addition at 4 Sunny Slope Drive. The board found the request was minor and that the applicant demonstrated hardship due to site topography and the home's location on a corner lot.

• Approved +/- 1.1’ side yard setback variance for 4 Sunny Slope Drive (5-0)
• Approved minutes from April 17, 2024 meeting (4-0)

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will review school reports and subcommittee updates regarding holiday giving, political activism, and mental health. Members will also discuss the Creative Leadership Program and the PHACTT grants.

• Spikeball Tournaments canceled for 2024
• Creative Leadership Program with RiseUp scheduled for June 17, 18, 20, and 21
• Celebrate West Hartford event on June 8 and 9

The council approved the minutes from the April 16 meeting and reviewed accomplishments and goals for the upcoming year. Members discussed upcoming PHACTT campaigns and the 2024-2025 membership process.

• Approved April 16th meeting minutes

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding an ordinance for cannabis establishment zoning regulations. The meeting includes a presentation and a period for public comment.

• Ordinance concerning zoning regulations for cannabis establishments

The Town Council held a public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to the zoning regulations for cannabis establishments. No final vote was taken during this session; the hearing was closed after staff presentations and council discussion.

Town Council

The Council will address unfinished business regarding cannabis establishment zoning regulations. New business includes resolutions for climate resilience, FEMA grant funds, opioid settlement funds, and budget amendments.

• Ordinance concerning zoning regulations for cannabis establishments
• Resolution authorizing participation in the Climate Resilience Fund
• Resolution appropriating FEMA Emergency Food and Shelter Program grant funds
• Resolution amending the FY 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant Fund budget
• Resolution appropriating opioid settlement funds for prevention programs

The Town Council approved an ordinance regarding zoning for cannabis establishments. The Council also authorized participation in the Climate Resilience Fund and appropriated funds for emergency food, shelter, and opioid prevention programs.

• Adopted ordinance concerning zoning regulations for cannabis establishments (6-3)
• Approved resolution for Town Manager to participate in Climate Resilience Fund (8-0)
• Approved appropriation of FEMA Emergency Food and Shelter Program grant funds (8-0)
• Approved amendment to FY 2024-2025 Community Development Block Grant Fund budget (8-0)
• Approved appropriation of opioid settlement funds for prevention programs (8-0)
• Appointed Pankaj "PJ" Paneru to Human Rights Commission (Consent)
• Appointed Alana Butler to Human Rights Commission (Consent)
• Approved revisions to Special Development District plan for One Park at 1, 27 and 61 Park Road (Consent)

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold a study session regarding a potential Special Development District amendment for the Corbin Collection. The applicant is proposing improvements to the façade, signage, and site of the property.

• Potential SDD amendment for 1445 New Britain Avenue (Corbin Collection)
• Proposed façade, signage, and site improvements

The committee held a preparatory study session regarding proposed façade, signage, and site improvements at 1445 New Britain Avenue for a new tenant, Level 99. No final decision was made on the proposal, though members discussed pedestrian safety and signage size. The committee approved minutes from February 22 and May 9, 2024.

• Approved February 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approved May 9, 2024 meeting minutes

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The Commission will review previous minutes and receive reports on senior job banks, transportation, and senior centers. Discussion includes the Community Development Block Grant/Housing Rehabilitation Program and the new ECC Project. The meeting also features a presentation on medication safety for older adults.

• Follow-up on West Hartford Community Development Block Grant/Housing Rehabilitation Program
• Status update on the New ECC Project
• Discussion of April Senior Housing Forum survey results
• Presentation: Medication Safety in Older Adults by Dr. Sean Jeffery

The Commission reviewed updates on senior services, including a fee increase for Dial-a-Ride and the waiver of resident membership fees for the West Hartford Senior Center. Members also discussed housing rehabilitation grants and senior housing survey data.

• Approved April 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• Town Council unanimously approved $3M in ARPA funds for GWWO Architects design services
• Waived $15 WHSC membership fee for town residents effective July 1, 2024

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss summer park safety and outdoor pool operations. The board is also reviewing proposed fee increases for Cornerstone programs and Veterans Rink use effective September 1.

• Proposed fee increases for Cornerstone programs and Veterans Rink use starting September 1
• Capital Improvements update
• Spring and Summer Program Registration discussion
• Celebrate West Hartford event planning for June 8 and 9

The board unanimously adopted the March 25, 2024 minutes. Members reviewed updates on capital improvements for parks and pools, summer camp schedules, and park safety measures. Proposed fee increases for Cornerstone and Veterans Rink will be presented to the Town Council in June.

• Adopted March 25, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Human & Community Services Committee

The Human & Community Services Committee will review several resolutions regarding grant programs and department funding. The meeting also includes updates from the Library and Leisure & Social Services departments.

• Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) FEMA Grant resolution
• Neighborhood Assistance Act Program (NAA) resolution
• Opioid Funds for Manikin Purchase by Fire Dept resolution
• CDBG Amended budget resolution

Library Board

The Library Board will review the Fiscal Year 2025 budget and updates regarding strategic plan implementation. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the March 25, 2024 meeting and a review of administrative reports for March and April.

• FY25 Budget review
• Strategic Plan Implementation updates
• Approval of March 25, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of March and April administrative and budget reports

The Library Board approved the minutes from the March 25, 2024 meeting. The Board received reports on the Town Council's approval of the FY25 budget and the implementation of the library's strategic plan.

• Approved March 25, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will discuss several ongoing projects including an artist survey and a business plan for 'The Hub' arts maker space. Discussion items also include the Places & Spaces Plan and updates regarding Poetry on Park.

• Artist Survey release update
• Places & Spaces Plan discussion
• Update on 'The Hub' arts maker space business plan
• Memo to TOWH regarding State of the Arts in West Hartford

Historic District Commission

The Commission will review Certificate of Appropriateness applications for residential exterior changes. These include stair replacements on Boulevard and a new storage shed on Buena Vista Road.

• Replace front stairs and railings at 1565 Boulevard
• Install new rear storage shed at 37 Buena Vista Road
• Replace front steps at 1569 Boulevard

The Historic District Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for porch repairs on Boulevard. One application for a new shed at 37 Buena Vista Road was deferred due to missing information.

• Approved COA for porch step replacement at 1569 Boulevard (Unanimous)
• Approved COA for porch stairs and railings replacement at 1565 Boulevard (Unanimous)
• Deferred COA for new wooden shed at 37 Buena Vista Road
• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes of April 22nd, 2024

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Community Planning & Economic Development Committee will meet to discuss a resolution regarding the Climate Resilience Fund and an Affordable Housing Plan. The meeting also includes a community development update from staff.

• Resolution authorizing Town Manager participation in the Climate Resilience Fund
• Affordable Housing Plan discussion
• Community Development Update

Civilian Police Review Board

The board will review and evaluate West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-01. Members will also discuss the CPRB Annual Report for 2023-2024 and the status of the CPRB webpage.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 24-01
• CPRB Annual Report 2023-2024
• Discussion of CPRB webpage

The Board voted to sustain the findings of Police Department Internal Investigation 2024-01. Members also adopted the 2023-2024 annual report and approved updates to the board's website language.

• Approved April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Sustained findings of Internal Investigation 2024-01 (6-0)
• Adopted draft 2023-2024 annual report with discussed changes (6-0)
• Approved website language clarifying advisory role and complaint submission process (6-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on a petition regarding a side yard setback variance. The request involves constructing an approximately 5.5’ x 24’ addition on the north side of the property.

• Variance for 4 Sunny Slope Drive to allow a +/- 1.1’ deviation from the 10’ side yard setback
• Construction of an approximately 5.5’ x 24’ addition

Public Hearing

The Town Council scheduled a public hearing regarding cannabis establishment zoning regulations. However, no presentations or testimony will be taken during the May 14 meeting. The hearing is expected to continue on May 28, 2024.

• Ordinance concerning zoning regulations for cannabis establishments

Town Council

The Council will address unfinished business regarding cannabis establishment zoning regulations. New business includes resolutions for historical document preservation and American Rescue Plan Act funds.

• Ordinance concerning zoning regulations for cannabis establishments
• Resolution appropriating Historical Documents Preservation Grant funds
• Resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act grant funds
• Appointment of Patricia Kiely to the Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The West Hartford Town Council moved the vote on cannabis establishment zoning regulations to a future meeting on May 28, 2024. The Council approved a resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act grant funds and adopted several other items by consent, including meeting dates for July and August and a historical documents preservation grant. Patricia Kiely was appointed to the Senior Citizens Advisory Commission, and Anne Massucco’s resignation from that commission was accepted.

• Cannabis zoning ordinance moved to May 28 agenda (7-0)
• Approved appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act grant funds (7-0)
• Adopted resolution setting July and August meeting dates (Consent)
• Adopted resolution for Historical Documents Preservation Grant funds (Consent)
• Appointed Patricia Kiely to Senior Citizens Advisory Commission (Consent)
• Accepted Anne Massucco’s resignation from Senior Citizens Advisory Commission (Consent)
• Approved April 24 meeting minutes (Consent)

Pension Board

The board will discuss capital markets updates, the Q1 2024 portfolio review, and asset allocation. The meeting also includes formal actions regarding pension administration applications and professional service invoices.

• Q1 2024 portfolio review and asset allocation discussion
• Approval of March 4, 2024, meeting minutes
• $17,500 invoice for Fiducient Advisors consulting fees
• $1,683 invoice from Shipman & Goodwin for professional services
• Review of pension administration applications including retirements and survivorships

The Board approved a change to the pension asset allocation to increase fixed income and decrease equity. The Board also approved several pension memberships, retirements, and consulting invoices.

• Changed asset allocation to 35% fixed income, 60% equity, and 5% real assets (Passed)
• Approved March 4, 2024 meeting minutes (Passed)
• Approved pension memberships, withdrawals, and retirement applications (Passed)
• Approved Milliman invoices for February, March, and April 2024 at $1,500 each (Passed)
• Approved Shipman & Goodwin invoice for $1,683 (Passed)
• Approved Fiducient Advisors Q1 consulting fee of $17,500 (Passed)

Public Hearing

The Tree Warden held a public hearing to discuss the proposed removal of 22 Bradford Pear trees on the south side of Boulevard between Ridgewood Road and South Main Street. No final decision was made during the meeting; the Tree Warden stated a written decision will be issued by the end of business Thursday.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review progress on several ongoing projects including the Bicycle Facilities Plan and the Park Road bike rack project. Members will also receive updates regarding engineering, planning and zoning, and reports from other municipalities.

• Bicycle Facilities Plan revision update
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Park Road bike rack project update
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project update
• Request for speed data on collector and arterial roads

The commission decided to draft a letter requesting revisions to the Bicycle Facilities Plan to better serve 'interested but concerned' users and remove the 'acceptable' category from the facility selection matrix. Several projects, including the Park Road bike rack and Trout Brook Trail safety signs, were tabled.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to draft letter requesting revisions to Bicycle Facilities Plan selection matrix
• Decided to request update to bicycle facility map
• Tabled Park Road bike rack project
• Tabled Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project
• Tabled request for speed data on collector and arterial roads
• Tabled reports from Hoboken, NJ and Naples, FL

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The commission will receive updates from the Town ADA Coordinator, the CERT Team, and the Vision Zero Task Force. Jennifer Jenkins from Disability Rights Connecticut is scheduled as a guest speaker.

• Staff Report from Suzanne Oslander, Town ADA Coordinator
• CERT Team update from Christy Miller
• Vision Zero Task Force update from Erin Conneely
• Guest Speaker: Jennifer Jenkins, Senior Advocate from Disability Rights Connecticut

The commission approved the minutes from the March 11, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made during the session.

• Approved March 11, 2024 minutes

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold a study session regarding a potential Special Development District application for 1800 Asylum Avenue. The proposal involves redeveloping the western portion of the former UConn campus by demolishing existing buildings to construct twelve new residential and commercial/mixed-use buildings.

• Potential redevelopment of 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Approval of February 22, 2024 meeting minutes

The Design Review Advisory Committee held a special study session on a potential new Special Development District application for 1800 Asylum Avenue, the former UConn campus. The applicant's concept calls for demolishing all existing buildings and constructing twelve new buildings, including commercial/mixed-use and residential, plus a private roadway and surface parking. Committee members raised concerns about the scale of townhomes on Asylum Avenue, the size and fit of the grocery store building, and parking and landscaping details. No formal actions were taken, and the committee offered to hold future informal study sessions.

• No formal actions taken on the 1800 Asylum Avenue study session
• February 22, 2024 meeting minutes: no action taken
• No communications or Town Planner's report items

Prevention Council

The council will discuss the final stages of the initial Recovery Friendly Community rollout with a guest from the State of CT DMHAS. The agenda also includes discussion regarding National Prevention Week and upcoming business sponsorship opportunities.

• Recovery Friendly Community rollout update
• National Prevention Week (May 12-18, 2024)
• Business sponsorship opportunities

The council approved the minutes from the April 18, 2024 meeting. Members discussed National Prevention Week events and the final stages of the Recovery Friendly Community designation.

• Approved April 18, 2024 minutes with edits

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will review a resolution to appropriate American Rescue Plan Act Grant funds. The meeting also includes a Finance Department update on the current year operating budget projection as of March 31, 2024.

• Resolution Appropriating American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds
• Finance Department Update: Current Year Operating Budget Projection as of March 31, 2024
• Executive Session regarding litigation involving 102 LaSalle Road
• Executive Session regarding litigation involving 27 Loomis Drive, 16 Sedgwick Road, and 194 Woodrow Street

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission is reviewing several Inland Wetlands and Watercourses permit applications for residential and commercial projects. Additionally, the Town of West Hartford has submitted a Special Use Permit for security and site improvements at Wolcott School.

• Redevelopment of 1800 Asylum Avenue including building demolition and construction of 12 new buildings
• Security and site improvements at Wolcott School including a 1,459 square foot office addition
• Removal of tennis court and fencing at 596 Mountain Road
• Installation of underground electrical conduit at 10 Starkel Road
• Construction of a single-family residence at 54 Hillsboro Drive

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission conditionally approved inland wetlands permits for projects at 596 Mountain Road, 10 Starkel Road, 54 Hillsboro Drive, and 153 Hunter Drive. The Commission found the redevelopment of the former UConn Campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue potentially significant and scheduled a public hearing for June 24. Additionally, the Commission unanimously recommended that the Town Council approve zoning regulations for cannabis establishments.

• Conditionally approved wetland permit for 596 Mountain Road tennis court removal (5-0)
• Found 1800 Asylum Avenue redevelopment potentially significant; hearing set for June 24 (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for 10 Starkel Road electrical conduit (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 71 Wolcott Road school improvements for June 3 (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for 54 Hillsboro Drive new residence (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for 153 Hunter Drive pool installation (5-0)
• Recommended Town Council approve cannabis establishment zoning ordinance (5-0)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will review the EVSE plan and approve minutes from April 3, 2024. Staff will also present updates regarding public works, facilities, and sustainability.

• Approval of April 3, 2024, minutes
• EVSE Plan Review
• Public Works Update
• Facilities Update
• Sustainability Update

Public Safety Committee

The committee will meet to approve the minutes from the April 3, 2024, meeting. The agenda includes staff reports providing updates from the Fire Department and Police Department.

• Approval of April 3, 2024, minutes
• Fire Department Update
• Police Department Update

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to address commission vacancies and subcommittee reports. Discussion items include potential actions regarding Gaza and the upcoming Memorial Day parade.

• Commission vacancies
• Discussion of Gaza events or actions
• Memorial Day parade discussion

The West Hartford Human Rights Commission approved its February minutes and voted unanimously to participate in the Memorial Day parade on 5/27/24. It voted unanimously not to meet in June, July, or August. The commission also unanimously agreed to repost a West Hartford Food Pantry social media post, named Kathryn to a new social media sub-committee, and unanimously nominated Mark for chair as Esam resigns effective in May. Discussion of Gaza and ways to raise awareness was held without a recorded decision.

• Approved February minutes (motion Esam, second Erich)
• Approved Memorial Day parade participation on 5/27/24 (unanimous)
• Voted not to meet in June, July, August (unanimous)
• Approved reposting WH Food Pantry social media post (unanimous)
• Kathryn accepted position on new social media sub-committee
• Cara to be liaison to WH neighbors and friends
• Nominated Mark for chair as Esam resigns effective May (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 8:06 (motion Eric, second Bruno)

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The commission will review Earth Day and Celebrate! West Hartford activities. The meeting includes reports from working groups focused on communications, nature-based solutions, energy, and waste.

• Earth Day recap
• Celebrate! West Hartford updates
• Working Group Reports: Communications & Outreach, Nature-Based Solutions, Energy / Buildings, and Waste
• Calendar update: It's Time to Talk Trash at WHPL on 4/30
• Calendar update: PowerSmart Info Session at WHPL on 5/1

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission approved its previous meeting minutes 8-0. Members reviewed working group reports on Earth Day events, pollinator initiatives, and the unit-based pricing waste pilot. No new votes or policy changes were made during this special meeting.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (8-0)
• Reviewed Earth Day event recap and 121 petition signatures
• Discussed waste reduction pilot outreach and misinformation corrections
• Reviewed Energy WG status on 1700 Asylum Ave development
• No new business items voted on

Fair Rent Commission

The Commission will receive an update regarding Case #2023-03, Vernon v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC. The agenda also includes a discussion of Case #2024-03, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC, and an explanation of administrative hearing guidelines.

• Update on Case #2023-03, Vernon v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines
• Case #2024-03, Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC

The Fair Rent Commission unanimously approved a motion to reduce the complainant's rent and suspend payment for 30 days while the landlord addresses code violations. Rent payments during this period must be held in escrow by the Town. In a separate matter, the Commission noted that the complainant in Vernon v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC withdrew their complaint after reaching an agreement with the respondent.

• Approved minutes from February 29, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Noted withdrawal of complaint in Vernon v. Westwood Apartments Owner, LLC
• Ordered rent reduction and 30-day suspension in Pagan v. Westwood Condominiums, LLC (unanimous)
• Required rent payments to be held in Town escrow during suspension period
• Required parties to report back to Commission after 30 days

Special Services District

The Special Services District will consider the adoption of the annual budget for fiscal year 2024-2025. The meeting also includes resolutions regarding parking space adjustments on Memorial Road and Isham Road.

• Resolution to adopt the Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and tax levy
• Resolution to eliminate two parking spaces for accessibility at 65 Memorial Road
• Resolution establishing two short term parking spaces on Isham Road

The West Hartford Center Special Services District adopted its annual budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and imposed a tax levy on each land use category. The board also passed resolutions to eliminate two parking spaces at 65 Memorial Road for accessibility and to establish two short-term parking spaces on Isham Road. All motions passed with unanimous votes of 11-0.

• Approved minutes from March 12 and April 9 meetings (11-0)
• Adopted FY 2024-2025 annual budget and tax levy (11-0)
• Eliminated two parking spaces at 65 Memorial Road for accessibility (11-0)
• Established two short-term parking spaces on Isham Road (11-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will consider several ordinances regarding fiscal year appropriations and the Capital Improvement Program. Additionally, a communication was received regarding proposed landscape and parking revisions at 65 Memorial Road.

• Ordinance to deauthorize $427,000 for specific Capital Improvement Program projects
• Ordinance concerning appropriations for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024
• Resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds
• Proposed landscape and parking changes at 65 Memorial Road (Blue Back Square)
• Resolution concerning the Tax Levy on the October 1, 2023 list

The Town Council adopted the Ordinance Concerning Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2024 on a 6-3 vote, with Councilors Cortes, Fay and Zydanowicz opposed. It also approved, 9-0, an ordinance deauthorizing $427,000 in previously authorized Capital Improvement Program projects and appropriating funds for CIP projects in fiscal years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, including bond authorization. The tax levy resolution for the October 1, 2023 list passed 7-2, and a resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act grant funds passed 6-3. Minutes of the April 9 and April 15 meetings and a town planner notice on Blue Back Square revisions were approved on the consent calendar without discussion.

• Adopted FY2024-2025 appropriations ordinance (6-3; Cortes, Fay, Zydanowicz opposed)
• Approved CIP ordinance deauthorizing $427,000 and appropriating FY2024-2025 and FY2025-2026 project funds with bond authorization (9-0)
• Approved appropriation to the Capital Improvement Fund for FY beginning July 1, 2024 (9-0)
• Adopted tax levy resolution on the October 1, 2023 list (7-2; Cortes, Zydanowicz opposed)
• Adopted resolution appropriating American Rescue Plan Act grant funds (6-3; Cortes, Fay, Zydanowicz opposed)
• Adopted resolution authorizing year-end budgetary transfers (9-0)
• Placed items 5A, 5B and 10A on the consent calendar and adopted the consent calendar (9-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:11 PM (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will meet to review a Certificate of Appropriateness application. The application involves replacing the front walkway with bluestone at 7 West Hill Drive.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for bluestone walkway replacement at 7 West Hill Drive

The Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a residential walkway renovation. The commission also approved the meeting minutes from February 26, 2024.

• Approved bluestone walkway renovation at 7 West Hill Drive (unanimous)
• Approved February 26, 2024 meeting minutes

Prevention Council

The council will review minutes from March 14, 2024, and discuss progress on the Recovery Friendly community initiative. The agenda also includes information regarding National Prevention Week, scheduled for May 12-18. Standing reports from several town departments will be presented.

• Recovery Friendly community Progress update
• National Prevention Week (May 12-18)
• Discussion of The Underground
• Reports from Social Services, Health District, Police, and WHPS

The West Hartford Prevention Council unanimously approved the minutes from its March 14 meeting. The council discussed progress on the Recovery Friendly Community initiative, which has received approval from the DMHAS commissioner's office for initial rollout. No new ordinances or budget allocations were voted on during this session.

• Approved March 14, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Recovery Friendly Community rollout progress
• Discussed National Prevention Week events (May 12-18)
• Discussed use of 'The Underground' space for teen events
• Discussed business sponsorship exploration

Human & Community Services Committee

The Human & Community Services Committee will review the proposed budget for Leisure and Social Services. The meeting also includes discussions on the Capital Improvement Plan, communications, and staff reports.

• Proposed Budget: Leisure and Social Services
• Capital Improvement Plan

Civilian Police Review Board

The board will review and evaluate West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 2023-13. The meeting also includes the approval of March 20, 2024 minutes and discussion of the CPRB Annual Report 2023-2024.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 2023-13
• Approval of March 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• CPRB Annual Report 2023-2024

The Board voted to sustain the findings of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 2023-13. Members also decided to update the Town website to clarify that the Board serves in an advisory capacity and that complaints must be submitted through police department channels.

• Approved March 20, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Sustained findings of Internal Investigation 2023-13 (5-0-1)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on three appeals concerning orders issued by the Zoning Enforcement Officer. The appeals challenge requirements for properties at 136, 146, and 150 Raymond Road to remove Airbnb listings and cease short-term rental use.

• Appeal regarding short-term rental enforcement at 136 Raymond Road
• Appeal regarding short-term rental enforcement at 146 Raymond Road
• Appeal regarding short-term rental enforcement at 150 Raymond Road

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied three separate appeals to allow short-term rentals at 136, 146, and 150 Raymond Road. The board found that zoning ordinances do not permit transient rentals and that the Zoning Enforcement Officer was justified in issuing cease and desist orders.

• Appeal #03-24 for 136 Raymond Road denied (5-0)
• Appeal #04-24 for 146 Raymond Road denied (5-0)
• Appeal #05-24 for 150 Raymond Road denied (5-0)
• Approved March 20, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0-1)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The commission will host a panel presentation regarding housing options for aging residents. The meeting includes reports on social services, job banks, transportation, and senior centers.

• Panel Presentation: 'Should I Stay Or Should I Go? Navigating Housing Options As We Age'
• Review and approval of March 19, 2024 minutes
• Discussion of West Hartford Community Development Block Grant/Housing Rehabilitation Program
• Report on postponement of March 26 Medication Safety Program

The Senior Citizens Advisory Commission approved the minutes from its March 19 meeting and hosted a panel discussion on senior housing options. The commission received updates on transportation, social services, and senior center events, including the reinstatement of lunch programs at two locations. No formal policy decisions or votes on ordinances were made during this meeting.

• Approved March 19, 2024 meeting minutes as written
• Hosted panel on 'Should I Stay or Should I Go? Navigating Housing Options As We Age'
• Reported Anne Massucco's resignation letter submitted for Town Council review in May
• Noted reinstatement of 5-day lunch programs at Elmwood Senior Center and Federation Square
• Announced upcoming CDBG/Housing Rehabilitation Program information meetings

Mayor's Youth Council

The West Hartford Mayor’s Youth Council will hear a presentation from Mayor Shari Cantor and receive school reports from Conard, Hall, and Kingswood Oxford. The council will also review subcommittee updates regarding holiday giving, spikeball tournaments, and mental health.

• Presentation by Mayor Shari Cantor
• Update on Rise Up for Arts Mural Funding
• PHACTT Grant Writing Workshops scheduled for April 23 and April 30
• Upcoming MYC Graduation on May 28

The council met with Mayor Shari Cantor to discuss current projects and subcommittee activities. Members reported on voting involvement, mental health fundraising, and upcoming grant workshops. No new substantive motions were voted on beyond the approval of previous minutes.

• Approved meeting minutes (6:06 PM)

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission will review status updates regarding vacancies and upcoming events. Discussions include preparations for a Spring Resource Fair and the Sterling Field Memorial.

• Status of Commission Vacancies
• Spring Resource Fair preparations
• Sterling Field Memorial

The commission approved the minutes from the March 19, 2024 meeting. Members provided updates on preparations for the Spring Resource Fair scheduled for May 11, 2024, and discussed a proposed memorial at Sterling Field.

• Approved March 19, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding a zoning change application by WeHa Development Group East, LLC. The proposal seeks to rezone approximately 14.9 acres of the northern portion of 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 single-family to RM-MS multifamily-multistory. The plan includes a Special Development District Designation (SDD) overlay for redevelopment into housing with associated parking and amenities.

• Rezoning ~14.9 acres of 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to RM-MS zone
• Proposed Special Development District Designation (SDD) overlay
• Redevelopment into multifamily housing with parking and site amenities
• Inclusion of new ballfield parking within the SDD overlay

The Town Council conducted a public hearing regarding an application by WeHa Development Group East to rezone a portion of 1700 Asylum Avenue for a 322-unit multifamily development. The proposal includes a Special Development District (SDD) overlay for the entire site to preserve existing ball fields and add new parking. No final vote was recorded in these minutes; the hearing concluded with the review of proposed conditions of approval.

• Closed public hearing on 1700 Asylum Avenue rezoning application

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will discuss updates regarding the business plan for “The Hub” arts maker space. Members will also review the Places & Spaces Plan and upcoming community events.

• Update on business plan for “The Hub” arts maker space
• Places & Spaces Plan (Hartford Baking Company)
• Poetry on Park at Riverbend Books & Park Road
• BCNA community event discussion
• Artist Survey review

The commission discussed the distribution of an artist survey and updates on the business plan for 'The Hub' maker space. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

• Postponed approval of March meeting minutes until May meeting
• Planned May meeting to be held in-person at Elmwood Community Center

Town Council

The Town Council will consider an application from WeHa Development Group East, LLC to rezone approximately 14.9 acres of the northern portion of 1700 Asylum Avenue. The proposal seeks to change the zone from R-10 single-family to RM-MS multifamily-multistory with a Special Development District Designation for new housing and parking.

• Rezoning of ~14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to RM-MS
• Proposed Special Development District (SDD) overlay for multifamily redevelopment

The Town Council approved a request by WeHa Development Group East, LLC to rezone approximately 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue from single-family to multifamily-multistory. The approval includes a Special Development District overlay for the northern site and adjacent parking areas. The motion passed unanimously with 9 votes in favor and 0 against.

• Approved rezoning of 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Ave to RM-MS with SDD overlay (9-0)
• Approved adjournment of meeting (8-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will elect an interim chair and approve previous meeting minutes. The meeting also includes several requests for personal and real property tax exempt status.

• Election of interim chair
• Tax exempt status request: AI Education, LLC (9 South Street)
• Tax exempt status request: Senior Job Bank (50 South Main Street)
• Tax exempt status request: Jewish Association for Community Living (20 Arapahoe Road, 195 Brewster Road, 90 Brookmoor Road, and 17 West Normandy Drive)

The Board of Assessors approved tax exempt status for Seniors Job Bank and the Jewish Association for Community Living Inc. A request for tax exemption from AI Education, LLC was denied. The board also elected an interim chair.

• Appointed Philip J. Orzech as interim chair (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved November 9, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied tax exempt status for AI Education, LLC at 99 South Street (unanimous)
• Approved tax exempt status for Seniors Job Bank at 50 South Main Street retro to 2022 Grand List (unanimous)
• Approved tax exempt status for Jewish Association for Community Living Inc. at 20 Arapahoe Road, 195 Brewster Road, 90 Brookmoor Road, and 17 West Normandy Drive (unanimous)

Special Services District

The District will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. This proposal was submitted by the District Manager in accordance with local ordinances.

• Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025

The West Hartford Center Special Services District held a public hearing on April 9, 2024. No public comments were recorded, and no formal votes were taken regarding the proposed 2024-2025 fiscal year budget. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Town Council

The Council will consider a resolution to amend a grant agreement for Wolcott Park improvements. They will also review minutes regarding a proposed multifamily housing redevelopment at 1700 Asylum Avenue.

• Redevelopment of 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to RM-MS zone
• Proposed Special Development District Designation for 1700 Asylum Avenue
• Amendment to State of Connecticut DEEP grant agreement for Wolcott Park improvements
• Resolution designating West Hartford a Pollinator-Friendly Community

The Town Council approved a resolution allowing the Town Manager to amend a state grant agreement for Wolcott Park improvements. The Council also passed a resolution designating West Hartford as a Pollinator-Friendly Community.

• Approved amendment to State of Connecticut DEEP grant agreement for Wolcott Park improvements (6-0)
• Approved resolution designating West Hartford a Pollinator-Friendly Community (6-0)
• Approved Town Council Meeting Minutes from March 26, 2024 (6-0)
• Approved Public Hearing Minutes from March 11, 2024 regarding 1700 Asylum Avenue (6-0)

Public Safety Committee

The committee will review the proposed budget for the Fire Department and the Police Department. The meeting also includes a discussion of the Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2025-2036.

• Fire Department proposed budget
• Police Department proposed budget
• Capital Improvement Plan FY 2025-2036

The West Hartford Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the March 6, 2024 meeting without objection. The Fire and Police Departments presented their budget and capital improvement workshops for the current year. No other substantive decisions or staff reports were recorded.

• Approved March 6, 2024 meeting minutes (no objection)
• Reviewed Fire and Police Department budget and capital improvement workshops

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed 2024-2025 fiscal year budget. This presentation includes proposals from the Town Manager and the Superintendent of Schools. The session also covers the Capital Improvement Program for FY 2025-2036.

• Proposed 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget
• Proposed Capital Improvement Program for FY 2025-2036

The Town Council held a public hearing on the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget proposed by the Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools. Five residents spoke during the public comment period. The meeting adjourned without any vote on the budget itself.

• Public hearing opened on proposed 2024-2025 budget
• Five residents provided public comments
• Meeting adjourned (9-0 vote)

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will review a resolution to designate West Hartford a Pollinator Friendly Community. Members will also discuss proposed budgets for Facilities, Public Works, and the Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2025-2036.

• Resolution Designating West Hartford a Pollinator Friendly Community
• Proposed Facilities budget
• Proposed Public Works budget
• Capital Improvement Plan FY 2025-2036

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will meet with the Town Manager and a Board of Education representative. The meeting is held to discuss and make recommendations regarding the Capital Improvements Program for fiscal years 2025 through 2036.

• Recommendations on the FY 2025-2036 Capital Improvements Program (CIP)

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission held a special meeting on April 1, 2024, with Town Manager Rick Ledwith and a Board of Education representative to discuss the Program for Capital Improvements for Fiscal Years 2025-2036. After discussion, the commission voted unanimously (5-0) to recommend that the Town Council approve the program. The meeting adjourned at 6:58 P.M. by a 5-0 vote. The minutes do not record the dollar amounts or specific projects in the program.

• Recommended Town Council approve the FY 2025-2036 Capital Improvements Program (5-0)
• Adjourned the special meeting (5-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review updates on several ongoing projects including the Bicycle Facilities Plan and the WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan. Members will also receive updates on safety countermeasures, bike racks on Park Road, and Trout Brook Trail markings.

• Bicycle Facilities Plan revision update
• WH Center Infrastructure Master Plan project update
• Crosswalks recommended for improved safety countermeasures project
• Park Road bike rack project update
• Trout Brook Trail safety signs/marking project update

The commission voted to request available roadway speed data from the town. Members postponed a workshop with the town engineer regarding the Bicycle Facilities Plan selection matrix until the May meeting to allow for further review of speed data and federal guidelines.

• Approved request for town to provide available roadway speed data (unanimous)
• Tabled workshop with town engineer and postponed selection matrix discussion until May meeting (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Tristan Sokol as Secretary
• Tabled crosswalk safety countermeasures project
• Tabled Park Road bike rack project
• Tabled reports on Hoboken, NJ and Naples, FL

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The Commission will consider applications to modernize Rockledge Golf Course and establish a new Wendy's drive-through at 331 South Road. Members will also review a permit for a pool installation at 153 Hunter Drive. The meeting includes the annual election of commission officers.

• Special Use Permit to add 20 covered tee stations and facilities at Rockledge Golf Course
• Special Use Permit for a new Wendy's drive-through facility at 331 South Road
• Inland Wetlands permit for a pool and patio installation at 153 Hunter Drive
• Annual meeting for the election of officers and committee representatives

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved a Special Use Permit for the Rockledge Golf Course driving range upgrade and a new Wendy's drive-through at 331 South Road. Both approvals were unanimous and subject to specific operational and environmental conditions. The Commission also found a proposed pool at 153 Hunter Drive potentially significant, setting it for a public hearing in May.

• Approved Special Use Permit for Rockledge Golf Course driving range upgrade (3-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Wendy's drive-through at 331 South Road (5-0)
• Found 153 Hunter Drive pool project potentially significant; set for May 6 hearing
• Continued 54 Hillsboro Drive wetlands permit application to May 6 hearing
• Withdrawn 596 Mountain Road wetlands permit application
• Re-elected Kevin Ahern as Chair and Gordon Binkhorst as Vice Chair (5-0)

General

The Board of Assessment Appeals will meet to vote on several pending appeals following hearings held on March 16 and 19, 2024. The items include assessments for real estate, motor vehicles, and personal property.

• Real estate appeals for properties including 248 Whiting Lane and 323 Ridgewood Road
• Motor vehicle valuation appeals for various vehicles including a 2015 Honda Accord and 2022 Tesla 3
• Personal property appeals for Harvest Wine and Spirits LLC at 842 Farmington Avenue
• Commercial property appeals involving 77 Grassmere Avenue LLC

The Board of Assessment Appeals reviewed various appeals for real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles. The board approved assessment reductions for several properties and vehicles based on inspections, rebuilt titles, or high mileage, while denying others due to insufficient evidence.

• Reduced assessment for 127 Garfield Road due to basement adjustment
• Reduced assessment for 55 Mountain Terrace Road due to finished basement value
• Reduced assessment for 69 South Main Street following property inspection
• Reduced assessment for 151 Balfour Drive based on property inspection
• Reduced assessment for 16 Chapman Road due to rec room value
• Reduced assessments for multiple vehicles (Volvo XC40, Honda Accord, Nissan Sentra) due to rebuilt titles
• Reduced assessments for multiple vehicles (Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V) due to high mileage
• Denied assessment reductions for 248 Whiting Lane, 36 Beverly Road, and 130 Loomis Drive

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget as proposed by the Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools. The session includes a presentation of the budget and the Capital Improvement Plan.

• 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget proposal
• Proposed Capital Improvement Program for FY 2025-2036

The West Hartford Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed 2024-2025 fiscal year budget. One resident spoke, suggesting the Blue Back Square development should have lowered taxes. The Council recessed and adjourned without voting on the budget itself.

• Public hearing on 2024-2025 budget opened
• Resident Charmaine Harkins spoke on Blue Back Square taxes
• Motion to recess approved (9-0)
• Motion to adjourn approved (9-0)

Town Council

The West Hartford Town Council will review several legislative items, including a public hearing on plans to replace an existing Wendy’s at 331 South Road with a new 2,680-square-foot building and drive-through. Members will also consider a proposed ordinance establishing zoning regulations for cannabis establishments, which would determine where licensed retailers may operate in the town. Additional agenda items include approving permanent easements for a project at 27 Park Road and authorizing the settlement of pending litigation involving Kelly E. Murphy and Justin E. Andrews.

• Public hearing on INSPIRED BY OPPORTUNITY, LLC proposal to demolish the Wendy’s at 331 South Road and construct a new 2,680 s.f. restaurant with drive-through under Special Design District #29
• Proposed ordinance establishing zoning regulations for cannabis establishments
• Resolution authorizing permanent easements for the development project at 27 Park Road
• Resolution to settle pending litigation: Kelly E. Murphy v. Town of West Hartford and Justin E. Andrews
• Approval of minutes from March 12, 2024, and a February 27 public hearing

The Town Council approved a resolution for permanent easements to support a development project at 27 Park Road. The Council also authorized a legal settlement regarding Kelly E. Murphy v. Town of West Hartford and Justin E. Andrews.

• Approved permanent easements for development project at 27 Park Road (9-0)
• Approved settlement of litigation: Kelly E. Murphy v. Town of West Hartford and Justin E. Andrews (9-0)
• Referred cannabis establishment zoning ordinance to TPZ, CRCOG, Hartford, Newington, and Farmington; public hearing set for May 14, 2024 (9-0)
• Approved March 12, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved February 27, 2024 public hearing minutes regarding 331 South Road (9-0)
• Accepted resignation of Colin Gilespie from Pedestrian & Bicycle Commission (9-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss budget planning and adoption. The meeting includes a proposal to drop membership fees at senior centers and updates on the Mayflower Property.

• Proposal to drop senior center membership fees
• Budget planning and adoption
• Mayflower Property update
• Spring and summer program registrations
• Tree Canopy Study discussion

The board approved the January 22 minutes and received updates on several capital projects, including the new Elmwood Community Center and Rockledge driving range. Members discussed upcoming summer programs, sustainability initiatives, and a proposal to remove resident membership fees for senior centers.

• Approved January 22, 2024 minutes (unanimous, 1 abstention)

Library Board

The Library Board will receive updates regarding the strategic plan and a new community center and library. The meeting also includes staff recognition and review of February administrative and budget reports.

• Strategic Plan update
• New Community Center & Library discussion
• Library Administrative reports
• Budget report

The Board approved the March 5 special meeting minutes. Members designated Eileen Daly as the primary representative to the Advisory Committee for the new community center and library design process.

• Approved March 5 Special Meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Designated Eileen Daly as primary representative for the New Community Center and Library Advisory Committee

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The commission will discuss ongoing business regarding waste, energy, and buildings. Members will also review group dynamics and upcoming community programs.

• Pollinator-Friendly Community Resolution discussion
• Earth Day Festival planning
• Community Match Fund discussion
• Upcoming Town Council Pollinator Resolution vote on 4/9

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission approved a new educational speaker series on pollinator-friendly land care. Members discussed a proposal to expand a food scrap and unit-based pricing waste pilot town-wide, which faces a Town Council vote on June 11.

• Approved educational Speaker Series for Sustainable Land Care (9-0)
• Approved changing meeting date from 5/27 to 6/3 (9-0)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (8-0-1)

Historic District Commission

The Commission will review two Certificate of Appropriateness applications. These include kitchen exterior window modifications at 47 West Hill Drive and a ground level deck proposal at 6 Meadowbrook Road.

• Window modification application for 47 West Hill Drive
• Ground level deck construction application for 6 Meadowbrook Road

The Commission unanimously approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for exterior home renovations. Members also discussed upcoming tax credit information and a project to inventory historic properties.

• Approved COA for kitchen exterior wall and window renovations at 47 West Hill Drive (unanimous)
• Approved COA for a new deck, window removal, shutter removal, and glass replacement at 6 Meadowbrook Road (unanimous)

Community Planning & Economic Development

The Community Planning & Economic Development Committee will review the proposed Community Development budget and Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting also includes discussion of an ordinance regarding cannabis establishments and potential changes to South Side parking.

• Proposed Community Development budget
• Capital Improvement Plan
• Ordinance concerning cannabis establishments
• Modifications to South Side parking at 65 Memorial Road and Isham Road

Civilian Police Review Board

The Civilian Police Review Board will review the West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 2023-12. The board will also receive an update on an ordinance implementing a previous CPRB recommendation.

• Review of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 2023-12
• Update on Ordinance Implementing the Recommendation of the CPRB

The board unanimously sustained the findings of West Hartford Police Department Internal Investigation 2023-12. Members also received an update on the adoption of ordinance amendments based on the board's 2022-2023 Annual Report.

• Approved January 17, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Sustained findings of Internal Investigation 2023-12 (6-0)

Civilian Police Review Board

This meeting was scheduled to include a review of a West Hartford Police Department internal investigation and an update on a related ordinance. However, the meeting has been canceled.

The regular meeting scheduled for March 20, 2024, was canceled. The notice indicates a special meeting was scheduled for 5:30pm in Room 400.

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will discuss the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget and Capital Improvement Plan proposed by the Town Manager and Superintendent. The meeting also includes a discussion of the proposed West Hartford Public Schools budget.

• Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget proposal
• Capital Improvement Plan proposal for FY 2025-36
• West Hartford Public Schools budget proposal

Zoning Board of Appeals

The West Hartford Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss and vote on two variance petitions that determine whether properties at 28 North Main Street and 773 Farmington Avenue can deviate from standard zoning setbacks, open space, and parking dimensions. The board will also review appeals regarding enforcement orders requiring three Raymond Road addresses to stop short-term rental listings, which establishes whether those units may legally operate as transient accommodations. Regular meeting business includes electing ZBA officers for 2024 and approving minutes from January.

• 28 North Main Street: Variance request to place a new free-standing sign forward of the 15-foot setback in an Office District zone.
• 773 Farmington Avenue: Variances requested to replace 2,200 square feet of required open space with parking, reduce parking depth by two feet, narrow a drive aisle, and shorten the distance between parking spaces and dwelling windows.
• 146 Raymond Road & 150 Raymond Road: Appeals of zoning enforcement orders requiring owners to remove Airbnb listings and cease short-term rental operations.
• 136 Raymond Road: Same short-term rental appeal as above (marked canceled on the agenda).

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss several petitions including a sign variance at 28 North Main Street and open space/parking variances at 773 Farmington Avenue. The board will also hear three appeals regarding orders to cease short-term rental operations on Raymond Road. Additionally, the board will elect officers for 2024.

• Sign variance for 28 North Main Street involving a +/- 11.33 foot setback
• Open space and parking variances at 773 Farmington Avenue including a 2,200 sf reduction
• Short-term rental appeals for 136 Raymond Road, 146 Raymond Road, and 150 Raymond Road
• Election of ZBA Officers for 2024

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance to reduce open space and modify parking standards at 773 Farmington Avenue. A request for a sign variance at 28 North Main Street was denied. Three appeals regarding short-term rentals on Raymond Road were scheduled for future hearings.

• Approved parking and open space variance for 773 Farmington Avenue (5-0)
• Denied sign variance for 28 North Main Street (3-2)
• Scheduled short-term rental appeals for 136, 146, and 150 Raymond Road for April 17, 2024
• Elected Commissioner D’Amato as Chairman (5-0)
• Elected Commissioner Harris as Vice Chairman (5-0)
• Approved January 17, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The commission will review reports regarding senior transportation, senior centers, and social services. The meeting also includes a discussion about future 2024 SCAC programs.

• Presentation by CT Department of Banking on financial fraud and banking scams
• Discussion of future 2024 SCAC programs
• Reports on senior transportation, senior centers, and social services
• Review of February 20, 2024, meeting minutes

The Commission approved the February 20, 2024, meeting minutes. Members discussed proposed budget changes including a Dial-A-Ride fee increase and the elimination of resident membership fees for Senior Centers. The meeting included a presentation on financial fraud from the CT Department of Banking.

• Approved February 20, 2024 meeting minutes with one correction

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals will conduct hearings for various taxpayers seeking to appeal their property assessments. The agenda includes residential, commercial, and motor vehicle appeals.

• Property assessment appeals for 842 Farmington Avenue
• Property assessment appeals for 1128 New Britain Avenue
• Motor vehicle appeals for a 2013 Toyota Prius and a 2014 Chevy Volt
• Commercial property assessment appeals for 130 Loomis Drive and 69 South Main Street
• Property assessment appeals for various residential addresses including 77 Grassmere Avenue and 55 Mountain Terrace Road

Human & Community Services Committee

The Human & Community Services Committee will review the proposed budget for Leisure and Social Services and the Library. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and staff reports.

• Proposed Budget: Leisure and Social Services
• Proposed Budget: Library

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission will review status updates regarding vacancies and preparations for a Spring Resource Fair. The meeting also includes discussion of the Sterling Field Memorial.

• Status of Commission Vacancies
• Preparations for Spring Resource Fair
• Sterling Field Memorial

The Commission on Veterans' Affairs approved its February 20, 2024 minutes unanimously. Members discussed preparations for a Spring Resource Fair, including an April mailing and a press release, and noted one commission vacancy after LTC Troy (Ret.) declined to serve. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved February 20, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Reported one commission vacancy; LTC Troy (Ret.) declined to serve
• Planned Spring Resource Fair mailing for April and press release to local media
• Agreed to discuss veterans' tax benefits and a regional coffee house at a future meeting

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will discuss several ongoing projects, including an artist survey and the Places & Spaces Plan involving Hartford Baking Company. The agenda also covers the April 20 Poetry on Park event and a business plan for 'The Hub' arts makerspace.

• Poetry on Park event scheduled for April 20, 2024
• Places & Spaces Plan update regarding Hartford Baking Company
• Review of an artist survey
• Assistance with a business plan for 'The Hub' arts makerspace
• Memo to TOWH regarding the state of the arts post-budget

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals will conduct hearings for taxpayers who have filed applications to appeal their property assessments. These applications include both real estate and motor vehicle valuations.

• Real estate assessment appeals for properties on Whiting Lane, Ridgewood Road, Chapman Road, Greenridge Lane, Beverly Road, Roberts Lane, and White Pine Lane.
• Motor vehicle assessment appeals for a 2022 Tesla 3 and 2022 Hyundai Ioniq5.
• Motor vehicle assessment appeals for various Honda, Nissan, and Volvo models.

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will elect an interim chair and review minutes from the November 9, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes several requests for tax exempt status regarding personal and real property.

• Election of interim chair
• Tax exempt status request: AI Education, LLC (9 South Street)
• Tax exempt status request: Senior Job Bank (50 South Main Street)
• Tax exempt status request: Jewish Association for Community Living (20 Arapahoe Road, 195 Brewster Road, 90 Brookmoor Road, and 17 West Normandy Drive)

The Board of Assessors Regular meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 8:00 AM at Town Hall, Room 142, 50 South Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06107 was canceled. The cancellation notice states the reason was lack of quorum. No decisions were made because the meeting did not occur.

Prevention Council

The council will review previous minutes and discuss progress regarding the Recovery Friendly community. The agenda includes updates on National Prevention Week, a future conference, and a QPR Train the Trainer partnership.

• Recovery Friendly community progress update
• National Prevention Week (May 12-18)
• The Future Prevention Leaders Conference (June 14, 2024)
• QPR Train the Trainer Partnership with CCMC and HHC

The Council unanimously approved the minutes from the February 8, 2024 meeting. Members discussed upcoming events for National Prevention Week and the final stages of the Recovery Friendly Community designation.

• Approved February 8, 2024 minutes with amendments (unanimous)

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will review the proposed budget for several municipal offices and departments. This includes discussions on General Government, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, and the Health District.

• Proposed Budget: General Government (Town Council, Town Clerk, Town Manager, Corporation Counsel, Registrar of Voters, Assessor’s Office)
• Proposed Budget: Information Technology
• Proposed Budget: Finance
• Proposed Budget: Human Resources
• Proposed Budget: Non-Departmental – Health District

The Finance & Administration Committee approved minutes from its January 8 and February 6, 2024 meetings. The committee discussed the FY 25 proposed budget for General Government divisions (Town Council, Town Clerk, Town Manager, Corporation Counsel, Registrar of Voters, Assessor's Office), Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, and the Non-Departmental Health District. No budget votes or other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 7:47 PM.

• Approved minutes of the January 8, 2024 meeting
• Approved minutes of the February 6, 2024 meeting
• Discussed FY 25 proposed budget for General Government, IT, Finance, HR, and Health District (no vote recorded)

Special Services District

The District Manager will present the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2024-25. The agenda also includes a communication regarding parking and approval of minutes from November 14, 2023.

• Presentation of Preliminary Budget for FY24-25
• Communication from Commissioner Basanese regarding parking
• Approval of November 14, 2023 meeting minutes

The minutes for the March 12, 2024 special meeting of the West Hartford Center Special Services District list only an agenda: opening, public forum, approval of prior minutes, receipt of petitions, consent calendar, communications, unfinished and new business, staff reports, executive session, and adjournment. The only substantive item noted is a presentation of the preliminary FY24-25 budget by the District Manager for transmission to the West Hartford Town Clerk. The document records no motions, votes, approvals, denials, or other outcomes.

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss the introduction of the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget as proposed by the Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools. The agenda also includes a proposed appointment to the Human Rights Commission.

• Introduction of 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget
• Appointment of Kathryn Lance to the Human Rights Commission

The Town Council received the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year budget as proposed by Town Manager Richard Ledwith and the Superintendent of Schools, and voted 9-0 to set it for public hearing and refer the Capital Improvement Plan to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission. Public hearings on the budget were scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 6:00 PM and Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 2:00 PM. The council also approved its consent calendar 9-0, which included the February 27, 2024 meeting minutes and the appointment of Kathryn Lance as a regular member of the West Hartford Human Rights Commission for a term expiring December 31, 2026. No dollar figures for the proposed budget appear in these minutes.

• Received and set the proposed FY24-25 budget for public hearing; referred the Capital Improvement Plan to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission (9-0)
• Approved the consent calendar, including February 27, 2024 meeting minutes and the Lance Human Rights Commission appointment (9-0)
• Placed Items 5A and 7B on the consent calendar (9-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:19 PM (9-0)

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is considering a zoning change application from WeHa Development Group East, LLC. The proposal involves reclassifying approximately 14.9 acres of 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 single-family to RM-MS multifamily-multistory residential. The plan includes a Special Development District Designation (SDD) overlay for new housing and parking.

• Rezoning ~14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to RM-MS zone
• Proposed SDD overlay covering northern and southern portions of the site
• Development of multifamily housing, parking, and site amenities

The Town Council opened a public hearing on an application by WeHa Development Group East, LLC to rezone about 14.9 acres of the northern portion of 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 single-family to RM-MS multi-family, with a Special Development District overlay covering the entire site, for a 322-unit multifamily development. At the applicant's request, the hearing was continued to April 15 at 5:30 p.m. in council chambers so the applicant could address outstanding issues with staff regarding the Fire Marshal's comments and engineering. No vote was taken on the application, and the council meeting scheduled for that evening was canceled because there was nothing on the agenda.

• Continued the 1700 Asylum Avenue rezoning public hearing to April 15 at 5:30 p.m. at the applicant's request
• No vote taken on the change of zone from R-10 to RM-MS or the Special Development District overlay
• Canceled the evening's town council meeting because there was nothing on the agenda

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will receive updates on the Vision Zero Task Force and the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan. The agenda also includes reviews of 2023 pedestrian and bicyclist crash reports and reports from several cities.

• Vision Zero Task Force update
• West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan update
• Crosswalks recommended for improved safety countermeasures
• 2023 pedestrian and bicyclist crash reports
• Report from University of St. Joseph

The commission reviewed designs for a Park Avenue road diet and a $1.7 million concept plan for Park Road improvements. The body also received updates on the Town Council's adopted Vision Zero Action Plan and a submitted grant application for trail connections.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda modification to prioritize engineering points (unanimous)
• Endorsed use of flex posts for Park Avenue road diet design
• Tabled crosswalk safety countermeasures to April 1
• Tabled P&Z update to April 1
• Tabled 2023 crash reports to April 1
• Tabled Hoboken Vision Zero report to April 1
• Tabled University of St. Joseph and Naples, FL reports to April 1

Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities will review reports from the Town ADA Coordinator, the CERT Team, and the Vision Zero Task Force. The meeting also features guest speakers from Special Olympics Connecticut.

• Staff report from Town ADA Coordinator
• CERT Team update
• Vision Zero Task Force update
• Presentation by Special Olympics Connecticut
• Review of public meeting requirements

The Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities approved its January 8, 2024 minutes and received updates on town accessibility work, CERT volunteer needs, and the Vision Zero Task Force, which was reported as status quo. Guest speakers from Special Olympics Connecticut and Special Olympics West Hartford presented on health and wellness programs and volunteer needs. The meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM; the next meeting is Monday, May 13, 2024.

• Approved minutes from January 8, 2024
• Heard staff report on Boards and Commission training for public meetings
• Heard CERT Team report: volunteers needed as role players for police training; Pulsepoint AED Registry app promoted
• Heard Vision Zero Task Force update: status quo
• Old Business: door knobs at Town Hall continue to be replaced with accessible versions
• New Business: to find out annual report deadline for WHACPD from Tiana
• Guest presentation by Special Olympics Connecticut and Special Olympics West Hartford on health/wellness programs and volunteer needs

Town Council

The Town Council will consider an application from WeHa Development Group East, LLC regarding 1700 Asylum Avenue. The proposal seeks to change approximately 14.9 acres from a single-family zone to a multifamily-multistory residence district with a Special Development District overlay.

• Zone change for 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue
• Proposed RM-MS multifamily-multistory residence district designation
• Special Development District (SDD) overlay proposal

Public Safety Committee

The committee will review staff reports from the Fire and Police departments. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from January 3 and February 7, 2024.

• Approval of January 3 and February 7, 2024, minutes
• Fire Department update
• Police Department update

The committee met virtually to approve minutes from January and February 2024. Staff reports were provided by the Police and Fire Chiefs. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved January 3, 2024 minutes
• Approved February 7, 2024 minutes

Human Rights Commission

The regular meeting of the Human Rights Commission scheduled for March 6, 2024, has been canceled.

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will review school reports and subcommittee updates regarding mental health and political activism. Members are also discussing 2024-2025 recruitment strategies and preparing for a visit from the Mayor.

• Voter Registration Drive in Blue Back
• Teen Skate Night at Veterans Skate Rink on March 8
• Teen Wellness Circle at Noah Webster Library
• Teen Wellness Fair at Hall High School on March 23
• Mayor visit scheduled for April 16

The Council approved all previous meeting minutes. Members discussed potential changes to term limits, candidate qualifications, and council size for the 2024-2025 term, with a vote on term limits scheduled for the next meeting.

• Approved all meeting minutes

Library Board

The Library Board will discuss the FY25 budget and a proposed staff day on March 21, 2024. The meeting also includes discussion regarding SB 148 and its impact on electronic book and digital audiobook license agreements.

• FY25 Budget discussion
• Library closure for staff meetings on March 21, 2024 (10am – 2pm)
• SB 148: An Act Making Certain Terms In Electronic Book And Digital Audiobook License Agreements Or Contracts Unenforceable

The West Hartford Public Library Board unanimously approved closing the library from 10am to 2pm on March 21, 2024 for Staff Day. The Board also unanimously approved a consent agenda that included the January 22, 2024 meeting minutes. The Board received an update on the FY25 budget, which the Town Manager will present to Town Council on March 12 and the Library will present to the Human & Community Services Committee on March 19. No public comment was offered.

• Approved consent agenda, including January 22, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved library closure 10am-2pm on March 21, 2024 for Staff Day (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:15pm (unanimous)

Pension Board

The Pension Board will review capital markets updates and asset allocation discussions. The meeting includes formal actions regarding pension memberships, withdrawals, and retirement applications. Additionally, the board will consider invoices for MARC implementation and audit services.

• January capital markets & portfolio updates
• Asset allocation discussion
• Pier Capital fee review
• Milliman invoice for $1,500 for MARC implementation
• CliftonLarsonAllen LLP audit services for 6/30/2023

The Pension Board approved January 2024 meeting minutes, new pension memberships, normal retirements, and withdrawals. They also approved invoices for Milliman and CliftonLarsonAllen, totaling $3,000, with a note that only $225 of the audit fee applies to the pension fund. The board discussed asset allocation changes and investment manager performance but deferred final decisions to the May meeting.

• Approved January 22, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new pension memberships for BOE and Town employees (unanimous)
• Approved normal retirements for 10 employees (unanimous)
• Approved withdrawals/terminations for 3 employees (unanimous)
• Approved Milliman invoice for $1,500 (unanimous)
• Approved CliftonLarsonAllen invoice for $1,500, limited to $225 pension portion (unanimous)

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The commission is reviewing several land use applications, including a rezoning request for 1700 Asylum Avenue to allow for multifamily housing. Other items include inland wetlands permits for residential construction and property modifications. Several previously opened public hearings were requested to be continued to April 2024.

• Rezoning of 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue for multifamily housing
• Inland wetlands permit for a new residence at 54 Hillsboro Drive
• Inland wetlands permit to remove a tennis court at 596 Mountain Road
• Inland wetlands permit for property modifications at 58 Waterside Lane
• Permanent easements for the development project at 27 Park Road

The commission recommended that the Town Council approve a zone change for 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue to allow multifamily housing. A wetland permit for residential work at 58 Waterside Lane was conditionally approved. Several other applications were continued to April 1, 2024.

• Recommended Town Council approve zone change to multifamily for 1700 Asylum Avenue (4-1)
• Recommended Town Council approve permanent easements for 27 Park Road (5-0)
• Conditionally approved wetland permit for deck, porch, and garage at 58 Waterside Lane (5-0)
• Found proposed activity at 54 Hillsboro Drive potentially significant; set hearing for April 1 (5-0)
• Continued Rockledge Golf Course driving range permit (SUP #1430) to April 1 (5-0)
• Continued Mountain Commons Condominium Association permit (IWW #1221) to April 1 (5-0)
• Approved February 12, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Fair Rent Commission

The Commission will review administrative hearing guidelines and hear Case #2024-02, Little v. Lexington WHP Partners, LLC. The meeting also includes a call for any additional action items.

• Case #2024-02: Little v. Lexington WHP Partners, LLC
• Explanation of Administrative Hearing Guidelines

The Commission approved the January 17 minutes with a minor correction. In Case #2024-02, the Respondent's motion for continuance was renewed but not decided; instead, parties reached a tentative settlement during a recess. The hearing was continued pending the Complainant's withdrawal of the matter.

• Approved January 17 minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Continued Case #2024-02 pending Complainant's withdrawal
• No ruling on Respondent's motion for continuance

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will hear from the West Hartford Registrars of Voters and receive updates from Conard, Hall, and Kingswood Oxford schools. Members will also report on holiday giving needs and mental health initiatives.

• Guest speakers: Beth Kyle and Elizabeth Rousseau (Registrars of Voters)
• Holiday Giving Committee food pantry needs list
• Mental Health Committee Bake Sale at Blue Back Square
• Teen Wellness Fair at Hall High School
• New Business: Teen Anxiety Support Group discussion

The council approved the previous meeting minutes and received updates on various student-led fundraising and community projects. Members discussed upcoming voter registration efforts and a youth wellness series starting in March.

• Approved February meeting minutes

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding an application by INSPIRED BY OPPORTUNITY, LLC. The proposal involves demolishing the existing Wendy’s Restaurant building to construct a new 2,680 s.f. restaurant with a drive-through facility.

• Modification of Special Design District #29 (SDD #29) at 331 South Road
• Demolition of existing restaurant building
• Construction of new 2,680 s.f. restaurant with drive-through
• Parking layout and drive aisle reconfiguration
• Stormwater and sanitary sewer improvements

The Town Council conducted a public hearing regarding an application by Inspired by Opportunity, LLC to demolish the existing Wendy's at 331 South Road and construct a new 2,680 square-foot restaurant with a drive-through. No final vote was recorded in these minutes; the hearing was closed following presentations and council questions.

Town Council

The Council will consider adopting the West Hartford Vision Zero Plan 2024 and allocating opioid settlement funds for prevention programs. The agenda also includes a proposal to rebuild a restaurant building at 331 South Road.

• Proposed redevelopment of Wendy’s restaurant at 331 South Road
• Adoption of the West Hartford Vision Zero Plan 2024
• Appropriation of opioid settlement funds for prevention programs
• Appointment of Algis Kalvaitis to the Zoning Board of Appeals

The Town Council approved a modification to Special Design District #29 at 331 South Road, allowing the Wendy's restaurant to be demolished and replaced with a new 2,680-square-foot restaurant with a drive-through, plus parking, landscaping, signage, and stormwater and sewer changes. The Council also adopted the West Hartford Vision Zero Plan 2024 and a resolution appropriating opioid settlement funds for prevention programs. All votes recorded were 9 YEA, 0 NAY. The minutes do not state dollar amounts for the opioid settlement appropriation or details of the Vision Zero Plan.

• Approved modification of Special Design District #29 at 331 South Road for a new 2,680 s.f. Wendy's with drive-through (9-0)
• Adopted the West Hartford Vision Zero Plan 2024 (9-0)
• Adopted resolution appropriating opioid settlement funds for prevention programs and activities (9-0)
• Approved consent calendar including February 13, 2024 minutes and appointment of Algis Kalvaitis to Zoning Board of Appeals through December 31, 2027 (9-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:44 PM (9-0)

Community Planning & Economic Development

The committee will receive updates regarding economic development and the Vision Zero Action Plan. The meeting also includes a review of the 2023 Complete Streets Annual Report and a community development update.

• Economic Development Update
• Vision Zero Action Plan
• 2023 Complete Streets Annual Report
• Community Development Update

The Community Planning & Economic Development Committee met on February 26, 2024, with no business items on the agenda. The committee received communications including an Economic Development Update, a Vision Zero Action Plan Update, and a 2023 Complete Streets Annual Report presentation. A Community Development Department update was also provided. No substantive decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 9:26 AM.

Human & Community Services Committee

The Human & Community Services Committee will review a resolution to appropriate opioid settlement funds for prevention programs. Staff will also provide updates regarding the Library and Leisure & Social Services.

• Resolution appropriating opioid settlement funds for prevention programs and activities
• Library update
• Leisure & Social Services update

The committee met virtually to approve the minutes from the January 16, 2024 meeting. The record lists a resolution regarding opioid settlement funds and staff updates, but does not record any votes or decisions on those items.

• Approved January 16, 2024 meeting minutes

Library Board

The West Hartford Public Library Board will review the FY25 budget, which includes a $40k increase for digital collections. Members will also discuss SB 148, a state measure affecting electronic book and audiobook license terms, and approve closures for upcoming staff meetings.

• FY25 budget review requesting $40k increase for e-materials
• Discussion of SB 148 on electronic book and digital audiobook licenses
• Approval of library closures for Feb 29 (open at 11am) and Mar 21 (closed 10am–2pm) staff meetings
• Consent agenda approval including January 22 meeting minutes

The Virtual Library Board Regular meeting scheduled for February 26, 2024, was canceled due to technical difficulties. No substantive decisions were made.

Commission on the Arts

The Commission will discuss potential West Hartford sites to host art and a memo regarding the state of the arts in the town. The agenda also includes discussion of Poetry on Park scheduled for April 20, 2024, at Riverbend Books & Park Road.

• Poetry on Park at Riverbend Books & Park Road (April 20, 2024)
• Discussion of potential West Hartford sites to host art
• Assistance with business plan for 'The Hub' arts maker space
• Memo to TOWH regarding the State of the Arts in West Hartford

The Commission approved the 2024 meeting schedule, which will include a mix of in-person and virtual meetings. Members discussed supporting a poetry event on April 20 and the development of a business plan for 'The Hub' maker space. The Commission also planned to draft an artist survey before submitting a 'State of the Arts' memo to the town.

• Approved January meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved 2024 meeting schedule
• Agreed to promote 'Poetry on Park' event on April 20, 2024
• Agreed to promote Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association event on April 25, 2024

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The commission will discuss foundational work and operating rules. Working group reports on land care, waste, energy, buildings, and communications will be reviewed. The agenda also includes planning for Earth Day and the Celebrate! WH event.

• Resolution declaring West Hartford a pollinator-friendly community
• Earth Day event planning
• Booth for Celebrate! WH (June 8 & 9)
• Discussion of operating rules

The Commission voted to advance a resolution designating West Hartford as a Pollinator-Friendly Community to Corporation Counsel. Members also scheduled an Earth Day fair and approved a presence at the Celebrate! WH event.

• Approved resolution to designate West Hartford a Pollinator-Friendly Community (9-0)
• Approved April 20 as the date for the Earth Day Fair (9-0)
• Approved hosting a booth at Celebrate! WH on June 8 & 9 (9-0)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Commission will review two Certificate of Appropriateness applications. These include a request to replace exterior windows at 1576 Boulevard and an application to install a mini-split condenser at 6 Meadowbrook.

• Window replacement application for 1576 Boulevard
• Mini-split condenser installation application for 6 Meadowbrook

The Historic District Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for residential exterior modifications. The board also approved the minutes from the January 22, 2024 meeting.

• Approved window replacement and removal at 1576 Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved installation of a central air conditioning condenser at 6 Meadowbrook (unanimous)
• Approved January 22, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

General

The Design Review Advisory Committee will review a referral from the Town Council regarding 1700 Asylum Avenue. The application proposes changing approximately 14.9 acres from an R-10 single-family zone to an RM-MS multifamily-multistory residence district with a Special Development District overlay.

• Rezoning of ~14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to RM-MS
• Proposed Special Development District (SDD) overlay for multifamily housing and parking
• Proposed SDD overlay to encompass southern 8.9 acres including new ballfield parking

The Design Review Advisory Committee recommended that the Town Council approve a zoning change for 14.9 acres of 1700 Asylum Avenue to allow for a new multifamily housing development. The committee encouraged the developer to remove proposed access-control vehicle gates. The committee also agreed that fiber cement panels would be a better option than corrugated metal.

• Recommended Town Council approve 1700 Asylum Avenue zoning change (3-1)
• Approved February 15, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Commission

The commission will host a presentation by CT Attorney General William Tong regarding an Elder Justice Forum. The meeting also includes various departmental reports covering social services, senior transportation, and the ECC Advisory Committee.

• Elder Justice Forum presentation by AG William Tong
• Review of January 30, 2024, commission minutes
• Reports on senior transportation and senior centers
• New ECC Advisory Committee report

The Commission approved the minutes from the January 30, 2024 Special Meeting. The session featured a presentation by CT Attorney General William Tong on elder fraud and abuse. Members also discussed upcoming senior housing and medication safety programs.

• Approved January 30, 2024 Special Meeting minutes as written

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission will discuss the status of current commission vacancies and preparations for an upcoming Spring Resource Fair. The meeting also includes reports from the Chair, Secretary, and American Legion.

• Status of Commission Vacancies
• Preparations for Spring Resource Fair

The commission coordinated logistics for the Spring Resource Fair, including mailing lists and press releases. The body also noted the appointment of Patrick Harrell to the commission.

• Approved January 17, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The West Hartford Historic District Commission scheduled a public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to the Zoning Regulations regarding historic districts. The agenda explicitly notes that this session is canceled.

• Public hearing on proposed amendments to the Zoning Regulations for Historic Districts

Design Review Advisory Committee

The Design Review Advisory Committee will review an application to modify Special Design District #29. The proposal involves demolishing the existing Wendy’s Restaurant building to construct a new 2,680 square foot restaurant with a drive-through facility.

• Demolition of existing restaurant at 331 South Road
• Construction of a new 2,680 s.f. restaurant building
• Modification of Special Design District #29 (SDD #29)
• New parking layout, drive aisles, and landscaping

The Design Review Advisory Committee recommended approval for a project to demolish the existing Wendy’s Restaurant and build a new 2,680 square foot restaurant with a drive-through. The committee also approved the meeting minutes from January 25, 2024.

• Recommended approval of 331 South Road restaurant redevelopment (5-0)
• Approved January 25, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will review school reports and subcommittee updates, including food pantry needs. Members will also hear from the Registrars of Voters and discuss a new teen anxiety support group.

• Mental Health Committee bake sale on February 17 at Blue Back Square
• Teen Wellness Fair scheduled for March 23 at Hall High School
• Presentation by Registrars of Voters Beth Kyle and Elizabeth Rousseau
• Discussion regarding PHACTT grants for suicide prevention and COVID isolation
• New business regarding a Teen Anxiety Support Group from Social Services

Finance & Administration Committee

The Finance & Administration Committee will meet to discuss a resolution concerning early voting polling locations. This is the only business item listed on the agenda.

• Resolution Concerning Early Voting Polling Location(s)

The Finance & Administration Committee met on February 13, 2024 and considered a resolution concerning early voting polling location(s). The minutes list this as a business item but do not record any vote, decision, or outcome, and refer readers to the agenda packet for attachments. No other substantive decisions are recorded; the meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM.

• Resolution Concerning Early Voting Polling Location(s) discussed; no vote or outcome recorded in the minutes

Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The Commission will review the status of current vacancies and discuss preparations for a Spring Resource Fair. The agenda also includes reports from the Chair, Secretary, and American Legion.

• Status of Commission Vacancies
• Preparations for Spring Resource Fair

Town Council

The meeting includes a communication from Mary-Jane Foster, Director of Hartford Interval House, regarding support for the organization.

• Address by Mary-Jane Foster, Director of Hartford Interval House

Town Council

The Town Council will review resolutions for purchasing additional police vehicles and adjusting non-union director salaries. The agenda also includes approvals for several CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 collective bargaining agreements. Additionally, the council will address recreational facility fees and early voting locations.

• Resolution to purchase additional police vehicles
• Approval of CSEA, SEIU Local 2001 collective bargaining agreements
• Revision of fee schedules for various recreational facilities
• Appointment of members to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Commission on Veteran's Affairs
• Review of minutes regarding Chick-fil-A site improvements at 509 New Park Avenue

The Town Council approved several resolutions by 8-0 votes, including appropriating funds to purchase additional police vehicles, funding a Civil Engineer II position in the Department of Community Development, amending the salary range for non-union director positions, and revising fees for recreational facilities. The Council also approved collective bargaining agreements with two CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 units (Clerical and Supervisory) and a resolution on early voting polling locations, while withdrawing a proposed agreement with the Building Maintenance Unit. Appointments to the Commission on Veteran's Affairs and Zoning Board of Appeals were placed on the consent calendar, as were minutes and three resignation communications. The Council entered executive session to discuss real estate matters and adjourned at 9:41 PM.

• Approved funds to purchase additional police vehicles (8-0)
• Approved funds for a Civil Engineer II in Community Development (8-0)
• Approved amending salary range for non-union director positions (8-0)
• Approved revising fees for recreational facilities (8-0)
• Withdrew proposed collective bargaining agreement with CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 Building Maintenance Unit (8-0)
• Approved collective bargaining agreement with CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 Clerical Unit, July 1, 2021–June 30, 2025 (8-0)
• Approved collective bargaining agreement with CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 Supervisory Unit, July 1, 2021–June 30, 2027 (8-0)
• Approved resolution concerning early voting polling location(s) (8-0)

Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission

The commission will review updates on the Complete Streets Policy and the Vision Zero Task Force. Discussions also include the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan and recommended crosswalk safety countermeasures.

• West Hartford Complete Streets Policy update
• Vision Zero Task Force update
• West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan update
• Crosswalk safety countermeasure recommendations
• "Please Slow Down" signs on Tunxis Road

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Commission voted unanimously to send a letter to the Town Council recommending Option A for both LaSalle Road and Farmington Avenue in the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan. The commission also approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed, without deciding, revisiting the Complete Streets Policy and whether to produce an annual report. Updates were given on Vision Zero quick-build projects planned for 2024 and a draft bicycle network map, with commissioner feedback due by February 20.

• Approved previous meeting's minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended Option A for LaSalle Road and Farmington Ave via letter to Town Council (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on whether PBC should produce an annual report
• Complete Streets Policy revision ideas deferred to a future PBC meeting
• Adjourned at 8:49 pm (motion carried)

Town Plan and Zoning Commission

The commission will consider several applications including wetland permits for residential work and special use permits for town facilities. Discussions include proposed upgrades to the Rockledge Golf Course, Elizabeth Park, and local softball fields.

• Scoreboard replacement at Conard High School (110 Beechwood Road)
• Tennis court removal at 596 Mountain Road
• Residential deck and garage construction at 58 Waterside Lane
• New restaurant drive-through for Wendy's at 331 South Road
• Modernization of Rockledge Golf Course driving range at 289 South Main Street

The Town Plan and Zoning Commission approved special use permits for improvements at Elizabeth Park, Kingswood Oxford School, Norfeldt Field, and Sterling Athletic Field. The commission also recommended that the Town Council approve a new Wendy's restaurant building and drive-through at 331 South Road.

• Approved site improvements for Elizabeth Park Horticultural Garden (4-0)
• Approved 3,600 sq ft addition and patio at Kingswood Oxford School (4-0)
• Approved player dugouts at Norfeldt Field (4-0)
• Approved player dugouts at Sterling Athletic Field (4-0)
• Recommended Town Council approve new Wendy's restaurant at 331 South Road (4-0)
• Found 596 Mountain Road wetland activity potentially significant; set hearing for March 4 (4-0)
• Found 58 Waterside Lane wetland activity potentially significant; set hearing for March 4 (4-0)
• Continued Rockledge Golf Course driving range matter to March 4 (4-0)

Prevention Council

The council will review the January 11, 2024 minutes and receive updates on the Recovery Friendly Community. The agenda includes standing reports from social services, health, police, and other local agencies.

• Update on Recovery Friendly Community
• Distribution of 2024 meeting dates
• Social Services report
• Health District report
• Police report

The Prevention Council unanimously approved the January 11 minutes. No new ordinances or funding decisions were made. Members reviewed updates on recovery initiatives, rising evictions, increased substance use during sports seasons, and social media-related school issues.

• Approved January 11, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:02 p.m. (unanimous)
• Discussed Recovery Friendly Community next steps
• Reviewed standing reports on housing, health, and police

Fair Rent Commission

The West Hartford Fair Rent Commission special meeting scheduled for February 8, 2024, was canceled. The agenda included an explanation of administrative hearing guidelines and Case #2024-01.

• Cancellation of the February 8 special meeting
• Case #2024-01, Pennington v. 1062 Boulevard Rsk, LLC

Public Safety Committee

The committee will conduct a meeting including staff reports from the Police and Fire Departments. No specific business items or legislative actions are listed on the agenda.

• Police Department Update
• Fire Department Update

The Public Safety Committee met on February 7, 2024 and received a Police Department report from Chief Riddick and a Fire Department report from Chief Priest. No motions, votes, or substantive decisions are recorded in the minutes; the reports themselves are referenced only as attachments in the agenda packet. The meeting adjourned at 8:36 AM.

Human Rights Commission

The meeting includes discussions on commission vacancies and subcommittee reports. The agenda also features updates regarding Esam town hall.

• Commission vacancies
• Subcommittee reports
• Esam town hall updates

Finance & Administration Committee

The committee will review resolutions for police vehicle funding, a new civil engineer position, and salary range amendments for non-union directors. The agenda also includes updates on the operating budget and recreational facility fees.

• Resolution to purchase additional police vehicles
• Resolution for a Civil Engineer II in Community Development
• Resolution amending salary ranges for non-union Director positions
• Resolution revising recreational facility fees
• Executive session regarding tax appeals for 591 New Park Avenue and 1500 New Britain Avenue

The committee addressed resolutions regarding police vehicle funding, a new civil engineer position, and non-union director salary ranges. One resolution regarding recreational facility fees was withdrawn. The meeting included an executive session to discuss two pending tax appeals.

• Discussed resolution to appropriate funds for additional police vehicles
• Discussed resolution to appropriate funds for a Civil Engineer II in Community Development
• Discussed resolution to amend salary ranges for non-union director positions
• Withdrew resolution revising the schedule of fees for recreational facilities
• Held executive session regarding tax appeals for 591 New Park Avenue and 1500 New Britain Avenue
• Withdrew executive session regarding Collective Bargaining Agreements with CSEA and SEIU Local 2001

Public Works , Facilities and Sustainability Committee

The committee will receive an update regarding the West Hartford Sustainable Material Management Grant. Staff will also present reports for sustainability and facilities.

• West Hartford Sustainable Material Management Grant Update
• Sustainability Update staff report
• Facilities Update staff report

The committee received updates regarding sustainable material management, facilities, sustainability, and public works. No substantive decisions were recorded during the meeting.

General

The Commission will review previous minutes and receive reports regarding senior job banks, transportation, and senior centers. Members will also discuss goals and meeting dates for 2024.

• Seniors Job Bank report
• Transportation for Seniors report
• Senior Centers report
• New ECC Advisory Committee report
• Discussion of 2024 Commission goals and meeting dates

The commission approved the minutes from the December 19, 2023 meeting. Members received updates on the Seniors Job Bank, senior center facilities, and transportation services. The commission planned several upcoming educational presentations for seniors.

• Approved December 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Scheduled medication safety program for March 26 at Bishops Corner Senior Center
• Organized senior housing forum for April 16 meeting

Design Review Advisory Committee

The committee will hold a study session regarding a potential Special Development District application for the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue. The agenda also includes a review of a site plan application for a new five-story mixed-use building at 579 New Park Avenue.

• Study session for potential multifamily and mixed-use development at 1800 Asylum Avenue
• Site Plan Application #1432 for a new five-story building at 579 New Park Avenue
• Approval of January 18, 2024 meeting minutes

The Design Review Advisory Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval of a Site Plan Application for a five-story mixed-use building at 579 New Park Avenue, replacing an existing building. The committee also held a study session on a potential new Special Development District for the former UConn campus at 1800 Asylum Avenue, discussing road alignment, building massing, and screening; no formal action was taken on that item. The minutes of the January 18, 2024 meeting were approved 4-0.

• Recommended approval of Site Plan Application #1432 for 579 New Park Avenue (5-story mixed-use building) — vote 6-0
• Approved January 18, 2024 meeting minutes — vote 4-0
• No formal action taken on 1800 Asylum Avenue study session

Mayor's Youth Council

The council will review school reports and subcommittee updates regarding mental health and political activism. The agenda includes discussions on various community projects and upcoming announcements.

• School reports for Conard, Hall, and Kingswood Oxford
• Mental Health Committee update on therapy dogs
• Political Activism Committee discussion on poll workers and student voter registration
• Kindness Project installation update
• Rise Up for the Arts proposal

The council approved the previous meeting minutes and discussed several student-led initiatives. Members reviewed proposals for a mental health mural at the Noah Webster Library and discussed organizing therapy dogs for exams.

• Approved meeting minutes (no changes)
• Proposed $5,000 Rise Up for the Arts mural for the Noah Webster Library Teen Room
• Proposed therapy dog program for final and AP exams
• Proposed student poll worker outreach for April primary elections
• Proposed voter registration drives at local schools

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council is holding a public hearing regarding an ordinance to implement recommendations from the Civilian Police Review Board. The meeting includes a presentation on the ordinance and a period for questions and comments from councilors and the public.

• Ordinance implementing the recommendations of the Civilian Police Review Board

The Town Council conducted a public hearing regarding proposed amendments to Section 5-132 of the Town Code of Ordinances. The proposed changes would allow the Civilian Police Review Board to evaluate the 'outcome' of investigations and require the police chief to provide a basis for disagreeing with board findings. No formal vote was taken during this hearing.

Public Hearing

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding an application by Chick-fil-A, Inc. to modify Special Design District #94. The proposal includes reconfiguring the existing drive-thru lane and making related site improvements to landscaping and parking.

• Modification of Special Design District #94 at 509 New Park Avenue
• Reconfiguration of existing drive-thru lane
• Site improvements including landscaping and parking

The Town Council conducted a public hearing regarding an application by Chick-fil-A to modify Special Design District #94 at 509 New Park Avenue. The proposal includes reconfiguring the drive-thru to a dual-lane system and making related site improvements. No final decision was recorded in these minutes.

Public Hearing

The West Hartford Town Council will hold a public hearing concerning an ordinance related to group child care homes. The meeting includes a presentation on the ordinance followed by public comments.

• Ordinance Concerning Group Child Care Homes

The Town Council held a public hearing on an ordinance amending the zoning ordinance to comply with Connecticut Public Act 23-142 regarding group child care homes. Town Manager Rick Ledwith presented limited changes to definitions and the schedule of permitted main uses. No vote was taken at this hearing; the minutes state a vote would occur at a regular council meeting. No members of the public spoke, and no written comments were submitted.

• Public hearing held on ordinance amending zoning rules for group child care homes; no vote taken at the hearing
• Town Manager presented changes to Section 177-2 definitions and Section 177-6b permitted uses to comply with Public Act 23-142
• Planning and Zoning Commission letter dated January 12, 2024 recommending approval read into the record
• Capital Region Council of Governments letter dated January 10, 2024 finding no apparent conflicts read into the record
• No written comments received and no public speakers at the hearing

Town Council

The Town Council will consider a zoning change for 1700 Asylum Avenue to allow for multifamily housing development. Other items include discussions on police review board recommendations, drive-thru modifications at 509 New Park Avenue, and several grant resolutions.

• Rezoning of 14.9 acres at 1700 Asylum Avenue from R-10 to RM-MS with an SDD overlay
• Drive-thru reconfiguration application for Chick-fil-A at 509 New Park Avenue
• Signage amendment for Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at 40 South Main Street
• Grant acceptance from The John G Martin Foundation for park improvements
• Grant acceptance from Amplify, Inc. for behavioral health services

The Town Council adopted ordinances regarding group child care homes and the recommendations of the Civilian Police Review Board. The Council also approved a site modification for Chick-fil-A and referred a multifamily housing zoning application to the Town Plan and Zoning Commission.

• Adopted Ordinance Concerning Group Child Care Homes (9-0)
• Adopted Ordinance Implementing the Recommendations of the Civilian Police Review Board (8-0)
• Approved Chick-fil-A site modification at 509 New Park Avenue (9-0)
• Referred 1700 Asylum Avenue zoning change application to TPZ and DRAC (8-0)
• Appropriated Capital Nonrecurring Expenditure Funds to the Board of Education (8-0)
• Accepted grant from The John G Martin Foundation for park improvements (Consent)
• Accepted grant from Amplify, Inc. for behavioral health services (Consent)
• Appointed Donell P. Jackson to the Civilian Police Review Board (Consent)

Pension Board

The board will review the fourth quarter performance update and asset allocation from Fiducient Advisors. Members will also consider several invoices for consulting and management services. Additionally, the board will act on pension administration items including retirements and withdrawals.

• Pier Capital LLC 4th quarter management fee of $90,358.24
• Fiducient Advisors Q3 and Q4 consulting fees of $17,500 each
• Milliman invoice for $1,500 MARC implementation fee
• Review of retirement applications and withdrawals

The Pension Board approved the minutes of its December 4, 2023 meeting, approved all items under Pension Administration (memberships, withdrawals and terminations, and applications), and approved four invoices. Fiducient Advisors reported the Plan was up 9.2% for the fourth quarter and 15.1% for the year, with an ending market value of $542,818,892. The Board discussed but did not decide on asset allocation changes, the MetWest Total Return Fund, and the Barings Real Estate holding. Director of Finance Peter Privitera announced his retirement, with the March 4, 2024 meeting as his last.

• Approved minutes of the December 4, 2023 regular meeting (all in favor)
• Approved all items under Pension Administration (all in favor)
• Approved Milliman invoice of $1,500 for MARC implementation fee for December 2023
• Approved Fiducient Advisors 3rd quarter consulting fee of $17,500
• Approved Fiducient Advisors 4th quarter consulting fee of $17,500
• Approved Pier Capital LLC 4th quarter management fee of $90,358.24
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:03 a.m. (all in favor)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The board will review updates on the Mayflower Property and various capital improvement projects. Discussion topics include 2024 fee increases for golf courses and the Elmwood Community Center, as well as sustainability and tree canopy projects.

• Eisenhower Bathhouse/Pool update
• Wolcott Park restroom and eastern parking lot improvements
• 2024 Fee Increases at Golf Courses and Elmwood Community Center
• John G. Martin Foundation Grant discussion
• Sustainability projects including Wolcott Park hillside restoration

The board adopted the September 2023 minutes and approved 2024 fee increases for golf passes and Elmwood Community Center rentals. Updates were provided on ongoing capital projects, including the Eisenhower Bathhouse renovation and Wolcott Park improvements. A $75,000 grant was noted for new docks and a shoreline platform, while a decision on the new Elmwood Community Center design is pending.

• Adopted September 18, 2023 minutes (unanimous, new members abstained)
• Approved 2024 fee increases: Golf passes up 4.1%-7%, Elmwood rentals up 10%
• Confirmed no change to 2024 golf green fees
• Noted $75,000 John G. Martin Foundation grant for Westmoor, Wolcott, and Spicebush parks
• Set 2024 meeting schedule: bi-monthly meetings from Jan 22 to Jan 27, 2025
• Postponed discussion on Sustainability Projects to next meeting

Library Board

The West Hartford Public Library Board will review the draft strategic plan and receive an update on the new community center and library project. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the FY25 budget and the annual report. Additionally, the board will enter executive session to discuss the Library Director's performance evaluation.

• Review of draft Strategic Plan
• Update on New Community Center & Library
• Discussion of FY25 Budget
• Election of Officers
• Executive session regarding Director's performance evaluation

The West Hartford Public Library Board unanimously approved its final Strategic Plan and a new slate of officers (Gail Crockett as Chair, EJ Greenspan as Vice Chair, Kim Cohen as Secretary). It also approved the consent agenda, including minutes from November 27, 2023. The Board received updates on the FY25 budget request (including a $40k increase for e-materials) and the new community center project, and held an executive session on the Director's annual evaluation. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda, including November 27, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved slate of officers: Gail Crockett Chair, EJ Greenspan Vice Chair, Kim Cohen Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved final version of the Strategic Plan (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss Director's annual performance evaluation (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Commission on the Arts

The Commission is discussing the 2024 meeting schedule and potential locations to host art. Members are also exploring collaborations with the Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association, the West Hartford Senior Center, and Dylan Healy.

• Discussion of 'Places & Spaces' sites including We Ha Fit and Riverbend Books
• Proposed collaboration with Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association
• Proposed collaboration with WH Senior Center
• Discussion regarding Dylan Healy

The Commission on the Arts approved its November meeting minutes 6-0 and adjourned unanimously. Most of the meeting was discussion: a proposed 2024 meeting schedule mixing in-person and virtual sessions, possible poetry events at Riverbend Books in April, and ideas for collaborating with the Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association and the Senior Center. No funding, contracts, or event approvals were decided.

• Approved November meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved adjournment at 7:37 PM (unanimous)

Sustainable West Hartford Commission

The commission will discuss part two of its foundational work, including mission and focus. Members will also receive updates from working groups regarding land care, clean energy, buildings, communications, and waste.

• Discussion on Sustainable Land Care name change
• Clean Energy PowerSmart publicity for February 6 kickoff
• Waste outreach presentation, strategy, and timeline
• Foundational work regarding mission, focus, and levers for action

The Sustainable West Hartford Commission approved two motions on waste policy: to write to Town Manager Rick Ledwith requesting an audience with the Town Council to educate them on the pilot and unit-based pricing (UBP), and to begin general public outreach on the waste crisis now while phasing in UBP information later. Both votes were 11-0. The Commission also approved the prior meeting minutes (11-0) and received working group reports; several agenda items, including foundational work and staff reports, were deferred.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (11-0)
• Approved writing to Town Manager Rick Ledwith to request audience with Town Council on waste pilot and UBP (11-0)
• Approved beginning general public outreach on waste crisis now, phasing in UBP information later (11-0)
• Deferred Part 2 of Foundational Work (mission, focus, levers for action), including Communications
• Deferred municipal staff report
• Deferred calendar and event updates
• Deferred next steps and agenda for next meeting