By Gigi Simko
(November 20, 2023) — The regular meeting of Haddam’s Board of Selectmen on November 13, 2023, was called to order by First Selectman Robert McGarry at 6:30 p.m. at the Old Town Hall, 21 Field Park Drive, Haddam. Selectmen Kate Anderson and Sean Moriarty were present.
First Selectman McGarry provided the following updates: Haddam Elementary School roof work is done for the year, as are the 63-hour swing bridge closures. Tylerville water will be connected with 109 Little Meadow. The Higganum Cove overlook is being constructed with granite from Quarry Hill. The apartments at 105 Bridge Road are scheduled to open in the spring. Phantom Brewery is partnering with Taino Smokehouse and aiming to open in February. Two battery storage sites are being considered on Boulder Dell and Rutty Ferry Roads. Blue Commons plans to start phase two between January and March 2024. All newly elected officials were reminded to swear in at Town Hall. The Town Clerk’s office and Land Use/Building Department are now able to accept credit cards.
Selectman Anderson thanked everyone who volunteered at the Fall Festival. The Holiday Pop-Up Market starts on November 18, 2023 and will run for four weeks. The Tylerville Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will be held on December 1, 2023. The Town of Haddam was selected to receive a state Main Street Investment Fund grant, which is a six-month program.
Selectman Moriarty made a motion to approve Business Interruption Loan Program applications from Oh Fudge, Subway/JK Bridge Group, River’s Edge Home Center/J&L Milardo, Tony’s Package Store and River Valley Provisions. Exact amounts and terms are noted in the meeting minutes.
Selectman Anderson made a motion to accept the $1.5 million grant from the Department of Economic and Community Development for the Brownfield cleanup of the Rossi property. The motion carried.
Selectman Moriarty made a motion to appoint Steve Lavaway as Deputy Fire Marshal. The motion carried.
Selectman Anderson made a motion to schedule a Town Meeting to vote on the renaming of Injun Hollow Road on December 12, 2023 at 7:00 pm at the Haddam Neck Fire Department. The motion carried.
Selectman Moriarty stated, “It has been a pleasure working with Robert McGarry, Kate Anderson and JoAnn Ricciardelli over the past four years.” First Selectman McGarry thanked him for his years of service and stated he will be missed.
The next regular Board of Selectmen meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 11, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., at the Old Town Hall, 21 Field Park Drive, Haddam. The meeting adjourned at 7:08 p.m.
