By Meghan Peterson, Ph.D.
We recently caught up with Haddam First Selectwoman Lizz Milardo to discuss various updates and provide information for residents.
MP: The bond ordinance, the legal mechanism to fund specific capital projects for Fiscal Year 2019-20, was recently authorized at a Town vote last month (Aug. 6, 2019). Aspects of the capital projects you would like to discuss?
LM: The bonding will allow the town to “catch up” on many projects and items by allowing us to finance them at a very low rate. The capital planning for the town is a very thorough process – from the Capital Planning Committee to the Board of Selectman and then to the Board of Finance, with each department having an opportunity to support its request. Over the years, the cost of many items (infrastructure, equipment) that we need, in addition to delaying things a year or two due to other priorities, has resulted in a large amount of capital costs presenting themselves over the next two to three budget cycles.
Bonding for these projects at an all-time low interest rate makes the most economical sense for the town. The town of Haddam has very little debt. For many years, the pay-as-you-go system was used. In the context of our road conditions and infrastructure needs, however, bonding for roads as well as for infrastructure improvement and/or implementation in our Tylerville and Higganum centers is the most cost effective method for Haddam to use. In addition, the town was upgraded to an AAA bond rating two years ago. This is impressive, especially with the State of CT being downgraded on its bond rating.
Please pay attention to budgetary matters as you consider candidates in the next election. There may be some who do not fully understand finances and the long-term picture for our community. I am concerned that some may be very short-sighted and not recognize how the use of money at a low interest rate does two important things: 1) saves us money overall; 2) keeps property taxes affordable for residents.
MP: Connecticut Water appears to be moving right along in terms of construction of the Tylerville water main. What is the most current status on this project?
LM: I am just so excited about all of the progress we are making on this front. Coastline Construction, Weston and Sampson and CT Water have been partnering with the town to proactively work on this. At this time, the main line is being tested for water flow and quality on Saybrook Road. Once this is completed and maintained, the next step will be hooking up each property.
MP: Roads, roads, roads. Most current information on this front?
LM: Paving in Haddam Neck should be completed at any time. In addition to the drainage work on Christian Hill Road, this will finalize the roads approved under the last bond issue. I have reviewed the VHB report with Public Works Assistant Director Chris Corsa and our town engineering consultant, Jeff Jacobson. We are finalizing the next set of roads to be worked on. This will be approved by the Board of Selectmen and scheduled for work Spring 2020.
MP: Town projects and community events your office is looking forward to this Fall?
LM: I would like to see the synergy in Higganum Center continue. Town Planner Bill Warner has brought a depth of knowledge to this process and has allowed us to move forward in many areas. We have met with both state and local health agencies as well as DEEP to review the options of community septic. This will impact most of the decisions that will be made in the center.
Planning and Zoning is reviewing options for the town garage, and we have the closing later this month on Haddam Elementary. I am happy to see this moving forward.
Meanwhile, everyone have a wonderful autumn and enjoy the River Day on Saturday!
