On the agenda: Coventry meeting — Flock camera (Sep 8)

AGENDA
Coventry Town Council Meeting
September 8, 2026
7:00 PM
Town Hall Annex
In-person attendance is permitted for the Audience of Citizens Portion of the meeting.
If you would prefer to submit comments for inclusion
under correspondence at the next meeting, email them to [email protected]
no later than 4 PM on the Tuesday prior to the day of the meeting.
Contact information for general correspondence to the Town Council
is available on the Town website at https://www.coventryct.org/225/Town-Council
A recording of the meeting is available on the Town's video-on-demand system
for those who wish to watch the meeting at this link: https://coventryct.viebit.com/?
folder=ALL
Please allow approximately 48 business hours
after the meeting for the video to be published.
1. Call To Order, Roll Call
2. Pledge Of Allegiance
3. Audience Of Citizens:
(30 Minutes - 5 minutes maximum per citizen)
4. Acceptance Of Minutes: (E)
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August 3, 2026
August 17, 2026
August 31, 2026

Documents:
UNOFFICIAL 8.3.26 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.PDF
UNOFFICIAL 8.17.26 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING.PDF
UNOFFICIAL 8.31.26 TOWN COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING.PDF
5. Consent Agenda:
All items listed with an asterisk (*) will be acted on by one motion. There will be no
separate discussion on this items unless a Council member so requests, in which case,
the item will be removed from the consent agenda and considered in its normal sequence
on the agenda.
6. Reports:
6.A. Council Chairwoman: Lisa Thomas
6.A.1. Event, 9/17/26: Understanding Jewish Identity & Antisemitism (E)
Documents:
JEWISH IDENTITY ANTISEMITISM.PDF
6.B. Council Members:
6.C. Steering Committee: Jonathan Hand, Chairperson
6.C.1. Recruitment: Volunteer For CT Water Customer Advisory Council (E)

JEWISH IDENTITY ANTISEMITISM.PDF
6.B. Council Members:
6.C. Steering Committee: Jonathan Hand, Chairperson
6.C.1. Recruitment: Volunteer For CT Water Customer Advisory Council (E)
Documents:
RECRUITMENT CT WATER CUSTOMER ADVISORY COUNCIL.PDF
6.C.2. * Minutes, Steering Committee: 8/24/2026 (E)
Documents:
UNOFFICIAL 8.24.26 STEERING MEETING MINUTES.PDF
6.D. * Finance Committee: Robyn Gallagher, Chairperson
6.D.1. * Minutes: Finance Committee Meeting 8/10/2026 (E)
Documents:
UNOFFICIAL 8.10.26 FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES.DOCX
6.E. Town Manager: James D. Drumm
6.E.1. Projects/Issues Update (E):
Documents:
9-4-26 PROJECT ISSUE MEMO-A.PDF
6.E.2. State Of The Lake Forum: September 22, 2026 (E)
Documents:
STATE OF THE LAKE FORUM 2026.PDF
6.E.3. * 06238 Parks & Recreation Fall 2026 Brochure
LINK TO PUBLICATION
7. Unfinished Business:
8. New Business:
8.A. 26/27-11: Consideration/Possible Action: Discharge Of Human Services Advisory
Committee (E)
Documents:
26-27 - 11 SUMMARY SHEET.PDF
HSAC AND YSAB MEMO 7-16-26.PDF
8.B. 26/27-12: Consideration/Possible Action: Establishment Of Youth Services Advisory
Board (E)
Documents:
26-27 - 12 SUMMARY SHEET.PDF
RESOLUTION 2026-11.PDF
8.C. 26/27-13: Consideration/Possible Action: Modifications To Job Description, WPCA
Assistant Operator (E)
Documents:

RESOLUTION 2026-11.PDF
8.C. 26/27-13: Consideration/Possible Action: Modifications To Job Description, WPCA
Assistant Operator (E)
Documents:
26-27 - 13 SUMMARY SHEET.PDF
WPCA ASSISTANT OPERATOR REVISED 8-26 WITH ALL CHANGES.PDF
WPCA ASSISTANT OPERATOR REVISED 8-26 WITH STEERING
CHANGES.PDF
WPCA ASSISTANT OPERATOR REVISED 8-26 WITH STEERING CHANGES
(CLEAN).PDF
PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACT APPENDIX B.PDF
8.D. 26/27-14: Consideration/Possible Action: Modification Of Ordinance No. 42-1, Fee
Schedule For Inspection Of Buildings Used For Public Service, Manufacturing And
Occupancies Regulated By Fire Safety Code (E)
Documents:
26-27 - 14 SUMMARY SHEET.PDF
ORDINANCE 42-1 REVISED 8-26.PDF
8.E. 26/27-15: Consideration/Possible Action: Modification To Job Description, Senior Center
Van Driver (E)
Documents:
26-27 - 15 SUMMARY SHEET.PDF
SENIOR CENTER VAN DRIVER JOB DESCRIPTION REVISED JULY
2026.PDF
9. Miscellaneous/Correspondence:
9.A. * Access Agency: Thank You For Funding Allocation (E)
Documents:
ACCESS AGENCY THANK YOU.PDF
9.B. * Board Of Education: Agenda - 8/27/26 (E)
Documents:
08-27-26 BOE AGENDA - REVISED.PDF
9.C. * Public Hearing, Town Of Andover, 9/15/2026 - Proposal To Amend Zoning Regulations
Concerning Mixed-Use Floating Zone (E)
Documents:
ANDOVER NOTICE 9-15-26.PDF
9.D. * Public Hearing, Town Of Tolland, 9/14/26 - Proposed Amendment To Zoning
Regulations, Reduce Setback Requirement (E)
Documents:
TOLLAND PUBLIC HEARING.PDF
10. Executive Session (E):
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Town Manager performance review

Documents:

10. Executive Session (E):
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Town Manager performance review

Documents:
EXECUTIVE SESSION A PERSONNEL.PDF
11. Adjournment
_______________
(E) denotes enclosure

UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
Coventry Town Council Meeting
August 3, 2026
7:00 PM
Town Hall Annex
1. Call To Order, Roll Call:
The Meeting was called to order by Council Chairwoman Lisa Thomas at 7:00 PM
Members Present: Lisa Thomas-Chairwoman, Peter Larson-Vice Chairman, Matthew Kyer-Secretary, Jon
Hand, Mark Wheaton, and Julie Blanchard.
Absent: Robyn Gallagher
Also Present: Cherie Trahan- Acting Deputy Town Manager and Special Projects Coordinator Alex Taylor.
2. Pledge of Allegiance:
Town Council members stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Audience Of Citizens: (30 Minutes - 5 minutes maximum per citizen):
None
Motion: I move to move agenda item 7.A. up on the agenda to take place after agenda item 5.
By: Kyer

Second: Larson

Discussion: None
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Larson, Thomas, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
4. Acceptance of Minutes, July 20, 2026:
Motion: I move to accept the July 20, 2026, Town Council Meeting Minutes, with Thomas’s suggested edits.
By: Hand

Second: Larson

Discussion/Edits:
 Blachard pointed out that the meeting was not a special meeting, and the file name on the agenda was
incorrect.
 Pg. 1, Roll Call needs to be corrected to reflect that Matthew Kyer was absent and Peter Lasrson was
present.
 Pg. 5, Under Richard Williams AOC comments, under #2, 1st sentence, add “fiscal” after BOE.
 Pg. 10, 4th bullet, change “BOW” to “BOE”.
 Pg. 13, last bullet, Change “Compan” to “Kompan”

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For: Hand, Larson, Thomas, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain: Kyer
5. Consent Agenda:
Motion: I move to accept the consent agenda.
By: Larson

Second: Kyer

Discussion: None
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
7. New Business:
7.A. 26/27-5: Consideration/Possible Action: Ordinance for Fire Prevention and Protection Cost
Recovery:
Motion: I move to approve the wording of the proposed ordinance for Fire Prevention and Protection Cost
Recovery.
By: Hand

Second: Larson

Discussion:
Blanchard explained that she was expecting to get a legal opinion to review regarding this ordinance, with
answers to questions raised at the last meeting. Taylor confirmed that there has been no further clarification
from the attorney.
Thomas shared the concerns raised from the previous meeting:
 Insurance companies were being identified as the entities funds were expected from
o The attorney's response was to word the ordinance similar to other towns, indicating the individuals
receiving the service will be billed.
 There was clarification against being insured versus not being insured.
 Clarification between resident and non-resident
o This language was removed from the definition section
Taylor explained that references to the insurance companies being the responsible party have been removed in
the new draft ordinance attached to the agenda. It does still reference billing to insurance, but this is consistent
with the practice for EMS billing. Taylor continued that this draft more closely resembles what has been used in
other communities. Additionally, the ordinance allows the fire department to establish a hardship waiver
procedure, that can be crafted with little restrictions. Thomas added that the attorney also suggested that giving
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residents a discount or allowing for a hardship waiver is something that can be done administratively and does
not specifically need to be in the ordinance. Meyers and Taylor confirmed that the process for these discounts or
waivers is not in the ordinance. All that is in the ordinance is language stating that such a waiver can be in
place.
Blanchard expressed frustration that the attorney did not offer supplemental language to include in the
ordinance but rather suggested that it be drafted similar to other towns. Wheaton commented he felt most
changes were incorporated but shared concerns that it has never been stated that the ordinance is all good or that
the attorney agrees it passes legal muster. He stated that it would be a good idea to get a final legal review of the
document. Thomas reminded that a Town Council approved draft would always be reviewed by the attorney,
and that is the next step once approved.
The Council discussed the fee schedule, which is not included with the ordinance so that it may be changed if
needed. It was reminded that the fee schedule was presented to the Town Council at the July 20th meeting and
has not been changed.
Wheaton shared the following questions/concerns regarding the ordinance:
 Section c)1. Includes “Fire Department”, which is defined, but then in the exclusions section it does not
include mutual aid. Thomas clarified that it is 2 different situations. In c)1, it is in reference to Coventry
requesting mutual aid whereas the exclusions are when Coventry Fire Department is requested as mutual aid
from a neighboring municipality.
 His homeowner's insurance only covers up to $500 for fire services, and his auto insurance covers $0 and
likely would not fall under ‘hardship’ circumstances. He suggested the Council keeps this in mind as other
residents could be in the same situation.
 After speaking with his insurance agent, he had concerns that an increased number of these claims in
Coventry would increase the rates of those insured in Coventry’s zip code. He added that he discussed this
with an actuary as well, who confirmed the same.
o Meyers explained that there were only 69 motor vehicle accidents last year, 12 structure fires, and only
a few Haz-Mat situations, showing the number of claims would be relatively small.
Blanchard suggested that the financial hardship paragraph be more vague so that the Town Council and Fire
Chief can determine/discuss the criteria. Chief Meyers agreed that the less that is in that paragraph is better.
Thomas commented that they can consider striking the last sentence. Wheaton proposed using the language for
the definition “...determination will be consistent with fire department policy.” Thomas commented that the
definition can read, “Hardship waiver means a process consistent with fire department policy through which...”
Blanchard explained that Wheaton is suggesting that the “lack of financial needs to pay” language be removed.
Wheaton agreed that it would simplify the language. Blanchard added that leaving the language in may negate
someone from contacting the fire department.
Kyer shared that a resident would want to know how to qualify for this, especially if the ordinance may affect
them. He felt there was a benefit to leaving the criteria in there. Blanchard shared concerns that it might lead to
unfair situations where someone will pay their bill when they could have gotten it waived, while others get their
bill waived who can afford to pay it.
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It was requested that more information be gathered on the amount of calls the department responds to that are
Coventry residents. Additional Meyers shared that one of the volunteers is an actuary and can help give him
more insight regarding how claims would impact the town, based on the current data.
Hand spoke in favor of the hardship waiver as presented in the definitions. Thomas also discussed that it might
be better to have the “process consistent with fire department policy” earlier on.
Blanchard discussed that ordinances in other towns are very brief, but the one drafted for Coventry is quite
wordy. Taylor shared that there are varying differences among the different ordinances, but he believed there
was a desire to create something more robust and thorough because this ordinance is still uncommon throughout
the state. Chief Meyers add that having a more robust ordinance holds stature when dealing with insurance
companies.
Blanchard questioned how monies collected from insurance companies would be handled. Thomas replied that
it would go to the general fund.
Larson suggested looking into the data collected by Tolland as they have had their ordinance in effect for 9
years and can share how it impacted insurance rates. Meyers stated that the State Commissioner would likely
have that information.
Wheaton pointed out that the date is incorrect in the 2nd motion and would need to be changed.
Kyer questioned the process to repeal the ordinance should it start to have a larger than anticipated impact on
the residents. It was explained the Council could vote to set the fees to $0 or to repeal the ordinance.
Taylor summarized the discussions from tonight's meeting:
 Change the language, correcting the reference to 42-2c in Section f (3).
 Adjust the phrasing of 42-2C (4) to have the language of “consistency with fire department policy” be at the
beginning of the section.
 More research to be done on insurance impacts to Coventry residents.
The Council had consensus to continue this item until more information is presented and corrections are made.
6. Reports:
6.A. Council Chairwoman: Lisa Thomas:
Thomas had no report.
6.B. Council Members:
Kyer reported:
 He participated in early voting today and reminded that this service is available to all residents. Thomas
clarified that the early voting available is only for the Democrat Gubernatorial candidates.

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6.C. Steering Committee: Jonathan Hand, Chairperson:
Hand shared that Steering discussed:
 The Fire Prevention and Protection Cost Recovery Ordinance
 Possible tax exemptions for veterans in town. Discussions are still ongoing.
6.C.1. Steering Committee Recommended Appointments:
6.C.1.a. Ad-Hoc Lake Advisory & Monitoring Committee: Zeppa:
Motion: I move to appoint Deborah Zeppa to the Ad-Hoc Lake Advisory & Monitoring Committee for a term
to expire 8/1/2029, as recommended by Steering.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer

Discussion: Hand shared gratitude for Zeppa serving as the Chair and shared that she serves passionately and
has done so for a long time.
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
6.C.1.b. Building Code Board of Appeals: Ackert:
Motion: I move to appoint Tim Ackert to the Building Code Board of Appeals for a term to expire 6/1/2031, as
recommended by Steering.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer

Discussion: Hand thanked Akert for his long and loyal service to the Town of Coventry in various ways.
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
6.C.1.c. School Building Committee, Alt. - Powers:
Motion: I move to appoint Michelle Powers to the School Building Committee as an alternate for a life term, as
recommended by Steering.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer

Discussion: Hand shared appreciation for Powers stepping in to serve with her experience as an educator.
Blanchard questioned how Powers was chosen over the other candidate (Peter DePaola), as he was wellqualified as well. It was explained that Kyer made a motion to recommend appointing Powers. It was explained
that at Steering there was discussion that both candidates were well-qualified, but Kyer ultimately made his
motion to recommend Powers due to a strong desire to have an educator serve on this Committee, due to the
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importance of that type of representation. Hand agreed and added that she is an educator in the grades the
Committee will be discussing/researching a school for. Thomas also commented on the importance of having an
educator on this type of Committee due to personal experiences with other schools.
Hand also expanded his comments to state that Powers is well-qualified, and her statement of interest form is
one of the most well-written he’s seen in a long time.
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard
Against:
Abstain:
6.C.1.d. Senior Housing and Affordable Housing Alternatives Study Committee – McMillen:
Motion: I move to appoint Stanley McMillen to the Senior Housing and Affordable Housing Alternatives Study
Committee for a life term, as recommended by Steering.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer.

Discussion: Hand shared that McMillen is very well-qualified and a perfect fit for the Committee. Thomas
agreed.
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard
Against:
Abstain:
6.D. * Finance Committee: Robyn Gallagher, Chairperson
6.D.1. * Finance Committee minutes: 7/13/2026:
6.E. Town Manager: (Cherie Trahan for James Drumm):
6.E.1. Projects/Issues Update:
Acting Deputy Town Manager Trahan shared the following highlights:
 Recreation Assistant Position-Interviews have been held, and an offer is ready to be made.
 WPCA Operator-The Town is currently accepting applications.
 The 2 new Coventry PD patrol vehicles purchased last fall are just about ready to go into service. They will
be brought to the Town Hall Annex prior to the 8/17 Town Council meeting for the Town Council and
public to view the new vehicles.
 Coventry Lake Hydrilla Treatment Project-This year marks the 3rd year of the 3-year treatment plan. There
was a treatment on 7/20/26, with planned treatments for July and September as well. The effectiveness of
the treatments will be analyzed by NEAR and reported to CLAM.
 Patriots Park Improvement Project- In 2025, the beach was closed for over 30 days during the swim season.
A water circulator was proposed by health and lake officials to address the issue. The new water circulator
has been operational since June 12th. Reports have shown that the bacteria levels in the water are
significantly lower than last year. However, Lisicke was closed due to high bacteria levels due to increased
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geese in the area. It is possible that the geese have been deterred from Patriots Park and moved to Lisicke,
but the situation continues to be monitored,
Root Road- A sinkhole formed southwest of the Cooper Lane intersection 2 weeks ago. The DPW has filled
the hole and patched the road. The pipe has been monitored. There are no concerns with immediate failure,
but there is a concern that the pipe will need to be replaced sooner than the engineering permitting process
takes. This means that further sinkholes are a possibility. The Town has built up LOTSIP funds for culvert
repairs. The town is also exploring an expedited process with inland wetlands and engineering to replace the
pipes. Moving this project forward for engineering will cause delays to other project schedules. More
information is to be provided.
Bunker Hill Bridge Replacement- Dayton Construction was awarded the contract as the low bidder at
$980,500. They are planned to start in late August, with the road closed until the end of November 2026.
The project is estimated to cost a total of $1.4M with engineering included. The project is a 50/50 split
between the grant and the town. Since the contract came in a little lower, it is hoped the total project cost
will be lower as well.

Questions/Comments: None
6.E.2. * Quarterly Reports: April - June 2026: None
8. New Business:
Motion: I move to move agenda item 8.B. to take place before 8.A.
By: Wheaton

Second: Hand

Discussion: None
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard
Against:
Abstain:
8.B. 26/27-8: Consideration/possible action: Resolution 2026-08, authorizing the Town Manager to sign
the Local Bridge Program supplemental application with the CT DOT and any other associated
agreements: Bunker Hill over Rufus Brook Bridge Project:
Motion: I move to approve Resolution 2026- 08, A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF COVENTRY, CONNECTICUT, AUTHORIZING TOWN MANAGER JAMES D. DRUMM TO
SIGN THE LOCAL BRIDGE PROGRAM SUPPLEMENTAL APPLICATION AND ANY ASSOCIATED
AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE TOWN AND THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT FOR THE BUNKER
HILL ROAD OVER RUFUS BROOK BRIDGE PROJECT, BRIDGE NUMBER 032013.
By: Larson

Second: Hand

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Discussion: Larson had asked earlier about how the 50/50 split gets determined with estimated costs, which
Thomas clarified that the amounts are determined by the actual cost. If the project is less than anticipated, it will
cost the taxpayers less as the towns 50% amount would decrease.
Wheaton commented that it appears back in 2023 there was a bond issue and the funds for bunker hill bridge
were received ahead of time. He questioned if those funds were set aside. Trahan commented that it is in a
separate fund from fund balance but identified separately for the project.
Thomas asked if the town does not need all that is set aside for Bunker Hill Bridge, what happens to the
remaining funds. Trahan explained that since it is in a road bond, it can be put towards another road project that
is outlined in the road bond.
Blanchard pointed out that the CT DOT is requesting official documentation; she asked if the resolution would
serve as the official documentation, Trahan confirmed.
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard
Against:
Abstain:
8.A. 26/27-7: Consideration/possible action: Accept final proposed changes to Town Charter from the
Charter Revision Commission:
Motion: I move to approve the Charter Revision Commission’s final proposed amendments.
By: Hand

Second: Larson

Discussion: Thomas explained that there are 2 motions that the Council will vote on. The 1st conversation is
going to be if all or some of the final proposed changes will be accepted by the Council. Additionally, there will
be a special meeting on August 31st to determine how the questions should be broken out on the ballot. Thomas
hopes that tonight Councilors can preemptively determine issues they want broken out so that town staff can
meet with the town attorney to ensure that if 1 or more questions does not pass at referendum that it does not
impact the rest of the Charter as written.
Thomas highlighted all the documents attached to the agenda that Councilors were able to review prior to the
meeting. She reminded that they, and all Charter revision documents and minutes, are available for public
review as well. She read the following quote from the Commission, “The Commission appreciated and
evaluated each area of feedback from the Town Council and addressed each area over the course of 2 meetings
(July 8th and 16th). While the discussion is best seen in the minutes from these meetings, the suggestions were
addressed in a line-by-line approach from the memorandum sent to the Commission on July 2nd. Suggested
technical and language corrections were accepted, with thanks offered for an additional proofread, and
suggested substantive changes were robustly debated, revisited, and in some cases accepted and others
declined, choosing to stay with the original conclusions of the Commission.”
In conclusion, “The Commission believes that the proposed revisions reflect a balanced and thoughtful
approach to modernizing the Charter while preserving the foundational structure of Coventry’s government.
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These recommendations are intended to improve clarity, enhance efficiency, align with current law, and
support effective governance both now and in the future.”
Taylor explained that both the final redlined version of the Charter and the explanatory spreadsheet since the
Council last reviewed them. The explanatory spreadsheet has notes to indicate that additional changes were
made or not made from the Town Council’s recommendations and why.
Thomas explained that even if the Town Council accepts this final draft, it does not mean that this is the final
Charter in place. It is simply what is put to vote.
Kyer shared that he has no further suggestions and appreciates all the work the Commission has put into this.
He noted that he is satisfied with the final version.
Blanchard stated that she feels the opposite, but no further changes can be made. She stressed that she is still not
comfortable with the percentages used in Section 7-3. However, she would not throw out the entire Charter due
to her issues with 7-3.
Wheaton shared that the document in imperfect from his standpoint. However, he can get behind the document
except for the 1% in 7-3. He stated he would be more comfortable with .25%. Thomas reminded that no
changes can be made at this point which Wheaton understood. It was mentioned that during previous
discussions there was no general consensus, so the document remained as was proposed.
Blanchard discussed Section 6-1, and shared concerns that not every position is listed. Taylor explained that the
attorney had told the Commission that none of the positions need to be in the Charter at all. The Commission
felt it best to leave the positions that were already there, without adding more which may reflect a drastic
change. The Commission did make minor changes to this section removing positions that have been absorbed
by other larger positions, for example the Tree Warden is now a part of the responsibilities of the Director of
Public Works. There were also concerns expressed from Commission members that removing positions may
cause the Charter to fail as it is not perceived well and led to the failure of the previously proposed Charter.
Taylor reiterated that the Commission wanted to maintain the structure of the document.
Thomas shared that the Council could choose to reject this change, but then the document would stay as it is
currently written, which contains incorrect titles of staff, and outdated information. She reminded that the
options are to accept the changes as presented or reject them. She stressed the importance of the Charter
receiving these updates. Thomas stated that even rejecting the proposed changes does not address Blanchard's
concerns about some positions not being listed.
Wheaton shared concerns with rejecting 7-3 that it would revert back to the original 9-3 which may cause issues
with the document. Thomas explained that the Council can vote to accept or reject 7-3. If the majority votes to
accept it, then it goes forward to referendum vote. She reminded that past Councils have expressed frustration
with the thresholds, as the current language is based on 1991 dollars.
Hand reminded that the 1% threshold is in line with the original Charter; it's just that the values have changed
over time. He also explained that every time a purchase over the threshold needs to go to referendum, it costs
taxpayers as well.
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The Council discussed the changes to Section 4-4, which were minimal but simplified the section and made it
more clear.
Wheaton discussed Section 7-1, as it limited the advisory questions that could be asked. He recalled asking the
Commission to consider having the language state, “The Council may consider asking advisory questions.” It
was clarified that Wheaton’s recollection is correct. However, Thomas shared that attorney feedback was
received that explained the Council does not have the authority to put various advisory questions on a
referendum. She also explained that the attorney informed her that the Charter or State Statute needs to give the
Council permission to put advisory questions on a referendum ballot. She read her email correspondence
between herself and the attorney. Thomas also clarified that the final interpretation is that advisory questions
can be on the ballot at referendum asking if the proposed budget is too high, too low, or adequate. Additionally,
it can be separated for both town and BOE operating budgets.
Blanchard discussed Section 8-8, where it takes authority away from the Council and gives it to the Town
Manager for transfers in the budget. Thomas reminded that this was discussed previously, and it is for transfers
within a certain department. She continued that the Town Manager isn’t going to being every small transfer to
the Council for approval and that the Council still has oversight on the large transfers. Blanchard questioned
how the Town Council would know that these transfers were made. Trahan explained that original
appropriations and any adjustments are reflected in the monthly reports given to the Finance Committee.
Thomas revisited Section 7-3 for further discussion. Wheaton commented that he agrees with Hand about the
adjustments to dollar amounts due to inflation over the past 30 years, but .25% of the current tax levy is still a
significant amount of money that he believes the residents would want to weigh in on. Blanchard agreed.
Hand commented that a key change is that the dollar amount was shifted to a percentage so that it adjusts
overtime. Hand also reminded that the dollar amounts had more purchasing power in 1986 or 1991. He stated
that the Charter should entrust the purchasing power of 1% with the hired town staff, as the Town Council still
has oversight. Hand shared an example of when ambulance prices were changing so quickly during COVID; the
town could have saved quite a bit of money if the Town Manager was authorized to make a purchase over
$100,000 without voter approval. He noted that there are quite a few situations where a similar situation
occurred due to the slowness of the process. He also recalled that voter turnout at referendums is not a high
percentage, and it might be more efficient in certain circumstances to bypass the referendum.
Kyer commented that he feels like the Charter is staying in line with the amounts that were approved for the
Charter in 1986, keeping the 1% of the current tax levy in the proposed changes.
Thomas reminded that Gallagher pointed out that the Town Council does not have authority to spend beyond
1.5%. If there was ever a need to spend over that amount, the Town Council would need to seek authority at a
town meeting.
Larson commented that all prior points are valid. He did however share that he was surprised to hear Blanchard
and Wheaton wanted .25% as at the last meeting the lowest they proposed was .5%. However, he agrees with
the change to a percentage as it moves with time. He felt if there was an instance that the town needed to spend
more than 2/3rds of their allotted spending, it should go to town meeting, which is what the proposed Charter
requires.
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Hand reminded of the costs to run a referendum, which Taylor clarified referendums cost $5,000. Hand stated
that is 5% of $100,000. This adds up over time, and he suggested that it might be better to put that $5,000
towards the item.
Thomas shared that the next action would be to accept or reject the proposed changes, and once they know what
part of the Charter is going forward, they can vote on which items should be broken out into separate questions.
Thomas explained that she has concerns if Blanchard and Wheaton vote ‘No’ to the whole Charter tonight,
when their specific issue is with the 1% in 7-3(a). Wheaton shared that he and Blanchard have gone on record
stating that this is their issue. If they have to vote ‘No’, he is OK explaining that. Thomas continued that her
concerns stem from an anticipated narrative that the Democratic majority is forcing this down the voters’
throats, and the town should vote ‘No’ on the proposed Charter. She stressed the importance of giving this
Charter the best chance as there are a lot of important updates and revisions that have been made.
Wheaton shared that he thinks the Commission did good work, and he and Blanchard would like to see the
Charter move forward.
Hand amended his motion:
Motion: I move to approve the Charter Revision Commission’s final proposed amendments for all Chapters
and Sections with the exception of the originally titled Section 9-3(a), When Action by Town Meeting
Required, revised titled Section 7-3(a), When Action Required by Town Meeting.
By: Hand

Second: Larson

Discussion: None further
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard
Against:
Abstain:
Motion: I move to approve the Charter Revision Commission’s final proposed amendment to former Section 93(a), now 7-3(a),
By: Hand

Second: Larson

Discussion: None further.
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, and Larson.
Against: Wheaton and Blanchard.
Abstain:
The Council thanked the Commission for the extremely detailed work.
Thomas reminded that at the August 31st meeting, the Council will decide how to move the Charter forward for
referendum. As of now there is at least the possibility of 2 questions.
11

9. Miscellaneous Correspondence:
9.A. *Board of Education: Minutes - 6/25/26:
9.B. * Public Hearing, Town of Tolland, 8/10/26: Zoning Regulation Amendment Accessory Dwelling
Units:
10. Executive Session:
 Town Manager Evaluation
Motion: I move the Town Council enter into Executive Session pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 12006A, discussion concerning employment appointment, performance evaluation, health, or dismissal of a
public officer or employee with the following in attendance, Town Council members Matthew Kyer, Jonathan
Hand, Lisa Thomas, Peter Larson, Julie Blanchard, and Mark Wheaton.
By: Larson

Second: Blanchard

Discussion: None
Voting:
For: Hand, Kyer, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard
Against:
Abstain:
The Council entered Executive Session at 9:45 pm.
The Council exited Executive Session at 10:47 pm.
11. Adjournment:
Motion: I move that the Town Council adjourn the meeting at 10:47 PM
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

The meeting was adjourned at 10:47 PM by unanimous vote.
Respectfully Submitted,

Nicole Archambault
Nicole Archambault, Minutes Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not official until approved by the Coventry Town Council at the next
Town Council meeting. Please see the next Town Council meeting minutes for approval or changes to these
minutes.

12

UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
Coventry Town Council Meeting
August 17, 2026
7:00 PM
Town Hall Annex
1.Call to Order:
The Meeting was called to order by Council Vice Chairman Peter Larson at 7:00 PM
Members Present: Peter Larson-Vice Chairman, Matthew Kyer-Secretary, Jon Hand, Robyn Gallagher, Mark
Wheaton, and Julie Blanchard.
Absent: Lisa Thomas-Chairwoman,
Also Present: James Drumm-Town Manager and Alex Taylor-Special Projects Coordinator
2. Pledge of Allegiance:
Town Council members stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Audience of Citizens: (30 Minutes - 5 minutes maximum per citizen):
None
4. Acceptance of Minutes, August 3, 2026: (Not Ready For Action):
No further discussion, the minutes will be addressed at the next meeting.
5. Consent Agenda:
Motion: I move to accept the consent agenda.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer

Discussion: Wheaton requested to remove 9.A. for discussion
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
6. Reports:
6.A. Council Chairwoman: Lisa Thomas:
Larson read the following report on behalf of the Council Chair Lisa Thomas:
1. The Town Council and I extend our appreciation to Gov. Lamont for his quick action to extend support to
CT Landmarks as it recovers from the theft and vandalism at the Hale Homestead. The press release is
attached under the Chair Report. The perpetrator’s actions were particularly violent and destructive, leaving
us stunned. Site Administrator Anne Marie Charland and her team have done incredible work cleaning up
the debris and putting things back together. Thanks as well to the many citizens who have donated funds
toward replacing what was stolen and installing additional security systems.
1

2. Camp Inspire is the new camp that is up and running at the former Channel 3 Kids Camp. It is run by the
Justice Education Center. The camp will celebrate the end of its first season on Friday, August 21 from
10:00-3:00. Executive Director Sherry Haller invites all Town Council members to stop by to see how the
camp has been renovated and learn more about the children and groups it serves. You can join for a picnic
lunch from 11:30 - 1:00. The flyer is attached under the Chair Report. I encourage those who are able to
drop in and see the extent of work that Justice Education Center have done. For those who aren’t able to
stop in, Sherry is very willing to set up a time with you to visit and have a tour.
3. August 29 is Coventry’s Arts on Main celebration from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. There are many musical, visual,
and participatory events planned. Later in the evening, the Coventry Playwrights Collective is performing at
the David Hayes Sculpture Fields on South St. That event runs 6-7:30 p.m.
6.A.1. Governor Lamont Announces State Support for Repairs at Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry:
Press Release from Gov. Lamont's Office
6.A.2. Invitation: Camp Inspire:
Link to Invitation
6.B. Council Members:
Kyer Reported:
 Visited the day camp by Parks and Rec Day camp, which he loves to do as a former Camp Director. He
shared the importance of this camp being offered to Coventry residents through Parks and Rec. He also
emphasized that the camp is a fun and safe place for kids over summer break.
 Attended the Farmer’s Market a few weeks ago, where flyers were available to vote for the Coventry
Farmers Market as one of their favorites in America. Voting is from August 1st through September 30th.
Kyer encouraged residents to vote and look for more information on their website. Drumm noted that the
Coventry Farmers Market is #2 in the nation and #1 in the Northeast.
Gallagher reported:
 By the next Town Council meeting, it will be a few weeks into the school year. She shared excitement for
the new school year and requested that everyone be patient with the school busses getting used to new
routes and traveling with kids who have never ridden the bus before. She hopes everyone has a great start to
the school year.
Motion: I move to add agenda item 6.B.1. Finance Committee Report.
By: Blanchard

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: None
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
2

6.B.1. Finance Committee Report: Robyn Gallagher, Chairperson:
Gallagher reported on the August 10th Finance Committee meeting and shared the following highlights:
 Monthly Financial reports were not available due to the Finance Office being busy with year-end. Updated
reports are expected at the September Finance Committee meeting.
 Discussed BOE reports, including concerns raised by Finance Director Cherie Trahan regarding transfers
made at year-end totaling several hundred thousand dollars. The Finance Committee is following up with
the BOE with questions drafted by Trahan.
 Discussed the draft MOA with the BOE pertaining to the new health insurance fund that was established
due to ECHIP having been dissolved. Some concerns were pointed out:
o How costs associated with the plan were laid out in the draft. The options are to contribute to the fund
based on claims, or to do it on a census base which would pool the funds together. Currently, which
option to go with is the biggest disagreement between the town and BOE.
o Ongoing funding of the health insurance reserve. Since the health insurance plan is brand new, there is
no money in the reserves bucket. Budgeted monthly amounts are contributed from each side (town &
BOE). The BOE has varied its contribution to the reserves on a month-to-month basis based on actual
census. This means that the BOE will not make payments towards individuals who are not on the
insurance plan. However, when developing the premium cost at the start, $1M in claims divided by 100
people is different than $1M in claims divided by 495 people. Blanchard added that the plan
administrator only takes the census data once a year, meaning they are working with the same number
for a 12-month period. With the BOE altering their census numbers, it alters what the plan
administrator recommends for funding the plan. Gallagher expressed that if the BOE wanted to do it
this way, they should wait until the reserve it built up.
 Discussed that the town went out to the Bond market and received 7 bids because the bond rating continues
to be good. Our bond rating is AA+ and SP1+ for notes, which is in line with last year.
Questions/Comments:
Wheaton reminded that the BOE Chair Jen Beausoleil had mentioned previously about a water issue and was
curious if there has been any process to address it, or estimates available. Drumm explained that the issue was
that PFAS was found in the wells at the high school. Not all wells were tested, but due to their proximity to each
other it is expected that all wells will be impacted at some point. The BOE is putting funds towards a filtration
system for the affected wells, which will resolve the issue. In the meantime, all other wells will be tested.
Wheaton discussed the disagreement in how the BOE and the town see the 'pool' for the health insurance plan.
He questioned if the BOE seems opposed to it based on the risk of higher/more serious injury rates with the
DPW. Gallagher shared that it is not the DPW specifically, but there has been a history of more significant
illness on the town side. She reminded that due to the town having a smaller group of people, a significant
illness can really shift things. Drumm also reminded that if a DPW employee was injured on the job, it would
most likely be covered by workman's comp, not health insurance.
6.C. Town Manager: James D. Drumm:
6.C.1. Projects/Issues Update (To be distributed):8-17-26 Town Manager Project Issues/Update Memo
A copy of the update can be found at the conclusion of these minutes, and using the link above, as it was not
attached to the meeting agenda.
3

Drumm highlighted the following from his update:
 The Nathan Hale Homestead Break-In: This occurred while Drumm was away, but the Police Chief has
informed that there is potential suspect they are looking into and working on locating him. However, it is
still under investigation.
 Charter Revision Commission: On August 3rd, the Council had 2 votes approving the Charter and specific
changes. The Council will have a Special Meeting on August 31st to discuss how the ballot questions are to
be worded. The question(s) will be included on the November 3rd ballot. A resolution will be prepared for
the meeting on the 31st.
 Recreation Assistant Vacancy: Alyssa Manzi has been hired. Manzi is a graduate of CHS. Manzi has a
Bachelors in Sociology and started her career as a Camp Counselor in Coventry back in 2014. Manzi is
currently employed by the Town of Mansfield as Camp Mansfield Nature Program Coordinator. Manzi
starts tomorrow, which is great timing as the after-school program is about to begin.

WPCA Operator Vacancy: This position remains vacant, as no promising applications were received. The
position will be readvertised as WPCA Assistant Operator, but it needs to go before steering 1st.
 The new Police Department Patrol Cruisers have been delivered. One was on display at Town Hall prior to
the meeting. The Council was able to see the new cruiser and all the technology that it is fitted with.
 Plains Road: This has been approved by the state, and everything is moving forward. However, the town has
not seen the financial documents, but the state is working on them. The contractor has submitted a schedule
in the meantime with a construction start date of September 9th and a substantial condition date of January
1st.
 Coventry Lake Hydrilla Control Project: the 1st treatment was completed in July, with 2 more planned
treatments on August 24th and September 21st. The lake consultant will provide a report to the Coventry
Lake Advisory and Monitoring Committee. Additionally, there will be a state of the lake report to inform
how the 3 years of treatment has worked for the lake.
 Patriots Park Improvements:
o DPW is primarily completed on the wall and base, prepping for the hired contractor to install the
replacement playscape equipment, which is expected to start in late September.
o The water circulator is still in place and working as intended. There have been no lake closures at
Patriots Park this season due to water quality.
 Main Street Sidewalk Project: Town Engineer Todd Penney has been working on this, but due to timing it is
expected that the project won’t start until Spring 2027.
 Root Road: The issue seems more serious than originally thought, but the road is not sinking at the moment.
However, Drumm stated that the town will need to move faster than was reported last time. There are
LOTCIP funds available to use for this. This repair will require permitting through inland wetlands, and
Drumm hopes that they can waive some requirements to do a fast repair. If the road starts degrading, it will
have to be closed.
 Bunker Hill Bridge: The bridge closure is coming up at the end of August, with completion expected by the
end of November.
Questions/Comments:
Wheaton asked about the Broadway Culvert. He questioned the last sentence that states "They indicated they
will be administering the project." Drumm informed that this means the state is administering the project which
means the engineering and money does not have to come from the town specifically. So, Coventry does not
have to hire a contractor and put the money up front. The state will fund and manage it; however, this leads to
4

the project moving much slower. Drumm shared that the Depot Road Bridge and Brigham Hll Bridge
replacements are being administered by the state and have had little action with their engineering.
Larson questioned what makes a project be administered by the state or not. Drumm explained that when state
funds are involved and it's through the DOT, they can make the decision on how they want the project to be
done.
Kyer discussed the following:
 Whether there has been an update to the Nips Funds. Drumm's report states that $20,000 is received
annually, and the town has received $19,000. He stated it seems as though this was left over from a previous
report. Drumm is going to look into this and update the report.
 Suggested that more data be collected over time to confirm the circulator is the reason for lower bacteria
levels at Patriots Park. He reminded that this year could be an anomaly as there were years the beach was
closed a lot, and years when it wasn’t. Drumm agreed but clarified that the levels were significantly lower
than has been seen in the past, which is why the circulator is appearing to be the cause. Kyer stated that it
would be important to continue reporting on this over the next couple of summers. Drumm agreed.
 Kyer questioned if it was known how much the circulator costs the town. The costs were unknown but
expected to be minimal, as it runs on a timer.
7. Unfinished Business:
7.A. Consideration/possible action: Ordinance for Fire Prevention and Protection Cost Recovery:
Drumm explained at the last Town Council meeting there were some questions about the ordinance that have
been worked on. The full memo from Fire Cheif Bud Meyers is attached at the conclusion of the agenda.
Cheif Meyers shared that at the Farmers Market on Sunday, there were 9,700 vehicles.
Motion: Motion to approve the wording of the proposed ordinance for Fire Prevention and Protection Cost
Recovery.
By: Gallagher

Second: Hand

Discussion: Fire Chief Bud Meyers summarized that upon researching further, he was able to determine there
would be little to no impact on insurance rates for Coventry residents. It's territorial, not by individual towns.
Fire service claims on homeowners' insurance would be lumped in with the overall loss cost.
Taylor reviewed the minimal changes that were incorporated to the ordinance after the last Town Council
meeting, which included a small language change and correcting incorrect references to certain
Sections/Subsection
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, and Wheaton.
Against: Blanchard
Abstain:

5

Motion: I move to call for a public hearing for the ordinance for Fire Prevention and Protection Cost Recovery
to be held on September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Coventry Town Hall Annex.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer

Discussion: Wheaton explained that he voted "yes" to the prior motion because the document reflects the
changes discussed, and he is in favor of the ordinance going to a public hearing. Wheaton also shared that Chief
Meyers did very thorough research, but he is still skeptical about increases to insurance rates. He clarified that
he does not support the ordinance but will support it going to public hearing for the public to review and
comment.
Hand shared appreciation that Chief Meyers met with the CT Insurance Department, the Deputy Commissioner,
and other representatives to get information from the state agency and bring it to the Town Council. He
continued that he is in favor of this ordinance due to the backup information from the state.
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, Blanchard, and Wheaton.
Against:
Abstain:
8. New Business:
8.A. 26/27-9: Consideration/possible action: Adoption of Resolution 2026-9, Filing of application in
amount not to exceed $2,500,000 for Connecticut Small Cities Community Development Block Grant,
and authorization of Town Manager to execute:
Motion: I move to approve Resolution 2026-09, A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF COVENTRY, CONNECTICUT, ACKNOWLEDING CONDITIONS AND PREREQUISITES
FOR STATE ASSISTANCE; AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION WITH THE
CONNECTICUT SMALL CITIES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AND
AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO REPRESENT THE TOWN AND EXECUTE PROGRAM
DOCUMENTS AS MAY BE REQUIRED; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
By: Hand

Second: Kyer

Discussion: Drumm explained that he has shared previously the town was awarded $2.5M from the current
cycle of CDBG grant from the federal government for the housing authority to use for lighting, roads, and
parking. The application in the motion is the application for the next grant cycle. Drumm continued that CDBG
learned that Coventry's Housing Authority was looking at expanding housing for seniors. Coventry was
encouraged to put in an application for the expansion of the housing. This next round of grant applications
wouldn't build the actual housing, but it would help fund the infrastructure.
Drumm shared that this type of expansion was recommended by the Housing Authority in the past, but there
were no funds to move it forward.
Wheaton questioned that with the grant funds already awarded for $2.5M, if the federal government plans to
administer this project. Drumm informed that they will not.
6

Megan Burnett and Laurie Bradley were in attendance via Zoom. Burnett shared that a public hearing was held
at Orchard Hills, with over 30 of the residents attending and voting unanimously in favor of the expansion and
infrastructure moving forward. Additionally, Bradley collected over 60 letters of support that will be included
with the application. Burnett and Bradley shared their appreciation for the applications being submitted.
Wheaton questioned a timeline for the process/project. Burnett informed that applications are due August 28th,
with the expectations that awards will be announced before year end. However, Burnett explained that
historically they take longer than they say. Burnett continued that once the awards are made, they would like to
combine the funds from the 2 grant years, if awarded for 2026, and go out to bid for site work and infrastructure
at the same time and have 1 contract for both. She reminded that this is dependent on the timing of when the
DOH announces awards.
Larson thanked them both for the work they have done and generating so much support.
Hand read the following section from Drumm's summary memo:
There is not a grant match requiring any Town funding. The grant funds are Federal funds being distributed by
the CT Department of Housing. Building permits, if applicable, will have fees waived as these are Town
projects through the Town’s application for grant funding on public property.
He shared the importance that there would be no grant match requiring town funding for this project.
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, Blanchard, and Wheaton.
Against:
Abstain:
8.B. 26/27-10: Consideration/possible action: Approval of letter of support for the Town’s Application for
the Resilient Forestry Practices Grant Program:
Motion: I move to approve the transmittal of the letter of support for the Town’s Application for the Resilient
Forestry Practices Grant Program
By: Kyer

Second: Hand

Discussion: Blanchard expressed that she would need to see the details of the grant before committing the town
to being responsible for something. Drumm explained that DEEP came to Coventry with grand dollars to spend
and is looking for towns to work with them. They worked with the Director of Planning and Development to
review areas and determined improvements could be made at the William Preserve. DEEP would use the grant
fund to remove invasive plants and trees and plant trees native to CT in its place to help rebuild the ecosystem
in about 2 acres of the Williams Preserve.
Wheaton commented that he would like to know which 2 acres, as the preserve is 70-acres total. He suggested
that a map be presented. He was curious if it was a lot of little places put together, or an area of 2 acres. Taylor
commented that he believes it will be the area of the preserve right off Cooper Lane. Taylor continued that these
are the recommendations from the state. Drumm added that it is the recommendation of the Conservation
Commission as well. Drumm shared the summary from the state highlights that there are heavy invasive vines,
dense understory invasives, and the conditions are poor for the overall health of the forest.
7

Drumm reminded that there are very little funds available for trees, and there are a lot of dead trees on this
property. He emphasized that this is a great opportunity to get state funds to remove the trees.
Wheaton shared he is generally in favor but wanted more definitive information about which 2 acres that will be
cleared and what is being planted.
Taylor shared that the deadline to get the letter out is the end of the month. Gallagher stated that to get more
information, a special meeting would need to be called to make the deadline. She asked why it mattered which
2-acres are being addressed as it is improving the health of the forest. Wheaton responded that he has seen
forest management done well and not done so well. He continued he enjoys old growth, forests and walking in
nature. He agreed that he does not want to miss the grant deadline but wants more information about what is
being done.
Kyer shared a brief history that the Williams Preserve was used for agricultural purposes a long time ago, and
the progression from field to forest happened over time. He reminded walking into Williams Preserve is a little
tricky due to the overgrowth and invasives. However, once you are in the forest, it is beautiful. He stressed that
there are people who are very heavily involved in the trails in town who are in support of this. He added that he
will be voting in favor of this as well.
Wheaton commented that with the Conservation Commission being behind this, that is a plus and agreed he
does not want to miss the grant deadline.
Taylor shared the list of native trees and shrubs that DEEP is looking to plant in the area.
Larson shared that he also frequents Williams Preserve and agreed walking in is barbery and thick. He shared
that it has not encroached far into the forest, but if left unaddressed it will. He stressed that he doesn't want to
miss out on an opportunity to remove some or all of the barbery. He also agreed it would be nice to have a map
to identify all areas. He questioned if the Town Council moves forward with this tonight, if the Protected Spaces
Committee and the Town Council can be made aware of all the plans. Drumm confirmed and explained if the
grant was awarded and the town did not like their plans, the grant could be rejected.
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, and Wheaton.
Against: Blanchard.
Abstain:
9. Miscellaneous/Correspondence:
9.A. * Correspondence: Squires - concern about Flock camera systems:
Wheaton commented that he is delighted the Council Chair Lisa Thomas has asserted that the Town of
Coventry is not looking to install flock cameras. Other councilors agreed.
9.B. * Monthly Statistics, Police & Fire Departments: June/July 2026:
10. Executive Session:
Update: Town Hall Union Negotiations:
8

Motion: I move that the Town Council enter into Executive Session pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes
1-200(6)(E)-discussion of any matter which would result in the disclosure of public records or the information
therein contained described in sub-section (b) of Section 1-210 with the following people in attendance all
present members of the Town Council (Matthew Kyer, Jonathan Hand, Robyn Gallagher, Peter Larson, Julie
Blanchard, and Mark Wheaton), Town Manager Jim Drumm, and Special Projects Coordinator Alex Taylor.
By: Hand

Second: Blanchard

Discussion: None
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Larson, Wheaton, and Blanchard.
Against:
Abstain:
The Council entered Executive Session at 8:10 PM.
The Council exited Executive Session at 8:21 PM.
11. Adjournment:
Motion: I move that the Town Council adjourn the meeting at 8:22 PM.
By: Kyer

Second: Gallagher

The meeting was adjourned at 8:22 PM by unanimous vote.
Respectfully Submitted,

Nicole Archambault
Nicole Archambault, Minutes Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not official until approved by the Coventry Town Council at the next
Town Council meeting. Please see the next Town Council meeting minutes for approval or changes to these
minutes.

9

Town Manager 8/17/26 Project Issues/Updates:

To:
From:
Date:
Ref:

Town Council
James Drumm, Town Manager
August 17, 2026
Project/Issue Updates

There are few changes to update Council on regarding our projects and community issues. As usual, underlined
sentences within this memo indicate more recent updates.
Charter Revision Commission: The Town Council appointed the members of the Charter Revision
Commission (CRC) on September 2, 2025. The Council appointed Michael Petro as the Chair on September
15th. The first meeting of the CRC was on Monday October 1st. They selected Justin Murphy as the Vice Chair
and Monica Gallegos Ramirez as the Secretary. They set their meeting schedule as the first Wednesday and the
third Thursday of the month, starting on November 20th. At their meeting on October 23rd, the CRC was briefed
by Attorney Rich Roberts (Halloran and Sage: Town Attorney’s Office) on the Charter Revision process as
established within State Statutes. They were also briefed on State regulations related to public meetings, public
records and the FOIA. The process calls for two public hearings, one before the CRC was able to review and
deliberate on sections of the Charter, and the second when they have a draft of their recommended Charter
amendments. The first Public Hearing was held on November 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Town Hall Annex.
There were a few suggestions by members of public, all of which were considered. The second one was held on
April 23, 2026, at 6:30 PM at CHS Veteran’s Auditorium. The CRC made a presentation and accepted public
comments. After the Hearing they discussed the comments received. The CRC has completed their report and
submitted it to the Town Clerk on May 14th within the deadline required by State Statutes. They presented their
recommendations to the Town Council on May 18th. Town Council completed their review on July 1, 2026,
and submitted their recommendations to the CRC. The CRC reviewed those recommendations and sent their
final proposed amendments back to Town Council for review and consideration for placement on the ballot.
The Town Council reviewed and approved the CRC’s final proposed amendments on August 3,2026. The
Town Council will consider setting questions and approving the placement of the questions on the November 3,
2026 ballot through a Resolution that will be placed on the agenda for action at the August 31, 2026 Special
Town Council Meeting.
Committee/Commission and ad hoc Committee Review: Upon coming on board as Town Manager, I had
the need to review some of the Ordinances and Charges of our various committees. In that limited review I
found that some committees were not in compliance with their charge. The Town has numerous standing
10

committees that cover many facets of municipal government and community interests and issues. The Town
Council expressed that Committee charges and ordinances need to be reviewed and updated. There may be
committees with similar overlapping charges; there may be committees that are not in compliance with their
charges; there may be committees that may need their charges updated; and there may be committees that need
to be discharged as they are no longer active or required. I have planned to present my findings to the Town
Council Steering Committee in groupings for review and possible recommendations. Staff have recommended
to the Steering Committee that the Human Services Advisory Committee be discharged. They have not had a
meeting since 2022. Additionally, the formation of a Youth Services Advisory Bord is being recommended so
to meet the requirements of an annual youth services grant. These committees will be discussed at the next
Steering committee on August 24th.
Recreation Assistant vacancy: Alyssa Manzi has been hired for the position. She is a Coventry High School
graduate and holds a BA in Sociology from Eastern Connecticut State University. She began her recreation
career in Coventry as a Camp Counselor in 2014 and is currently employed by the Town of Mansfield Parks
and Recreation Department as the Camp Mansfield Nature Program Coordinator. She will begin work
tomorrow August 18th.
Youth Services Coordinator vacancy: The vacant position has been frozen until December due to budget cuts.
WPCA Operator I: The Town has put this position on hold to re-evaluate the staffing needed. We are
currently considering hiring an Assistant WPCA Operator (lower pay grade) as an entry level position.
New Police Patrol Vehicles: The two patrol vehicles that were purchased last fall are nearly ready to go into
service. They will be on display before the Town Council Meeting tonight for you and the public to see the new
vehicles and the new technology that has been installed using the funds from the recent Congressional
Discretionary Assistance Grant. The new cars follow the new all black design with gold trim lettering that was
used on the last new car purchased about 1.5 years ago. This saves a couple of thousand dollars in painting
costs that would have been spent to make them black with white doors. The first vehicle purchased in 2025
and one of the two recent vehicles purchased were replacements for cars that were demolished in vehicular
accidents. Insurance proceeds supplemented these purchases. Unfortunately, there will be no vehicles handed
down to Town hall staff doing non-police work. This leaves Town Hall staff occasionally having to use their
personal cars for conducting field inspections, purchasing/transporting supplies and other town business
required out in the community.
Materials Management Infrastructure (MMI) grant: The CT Department of Energy and Environmental
Protection (DEEP) has awarded the MMI grant to the Town to construct a food waste/leaf composting facility at
DPW. Towns awarded this grant are finding that there is extensive permitting being required before they can
move forward. The DEEP is currently reviewing the Town’s permit application. Tree removal will begin upon
approval of the permit. Construction is estimated to occur in fall of 2026. The CT DEEP has delayed ours and
many of these MMI grant projects with intense permitting reviews. It is uncertain when permitting will be
completed. This program will also include the purchase of counter-top collection containers. The containers
have arrived and are being stored at DPW to distribute at the launch of the food waste composting site,
hopefully next fall. The total amount of the grant is $202, 895. The Town Council authorized up to $5,000 in
NIPS funding for the containers.
Nip Money Recycling Projects: The State passed the “Nickel for Nips” bottle program in 2021 after having
had many complaints about littering, especially nip bottles, along Connecticut roadways. The funds must be
used for recycling, litter prevention and related activities. The Town receives approximately $20,000 annually.
So far this year the Town has received $19,000. We currently have a balance of $90,808. On November 3,
20025, the Town Council voted to allocate funds to several qualified initiatives:
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1) A waste oil container that will provide a clean and environmentally safe way to collect waste oil.
This initiative includes funding a pad and a shed to contain the tank, which is planned to be placed at the
Transfer Station. Amount approved is up to $22,000. The shed and container have been delivered and will be
installed next month.
2) The Town has seen an increase in the amount of waste oil and this expense is rising. This initiative
will cover these disposal costs. Amount approved is up to $3,000 per year for disposal of oil not recycled. This
will be reviewed annually. Was not needed in FY25/26 as we found partners to take our waste oil at no cost.
This will be reevaluated and considered again by Town Council in FY26/27.
3) A MetroSTOR container is planned to be placed at the Transfer Station and will limit odor and animal
intrusion. This initiative will improve the voluntary public food waste collection that is planned to begin in late
fall 2026. Amount approved is up to up to $3,500. The container has arrived and will be installed at the waste
compost site after permitting and construction is complete.
4) Storm drain markers educate/warn the public on that dumping in the drain will impact lake water
quality and the environment. These would only be placed on drains in the lake watershed. Amount approved is
up to up to $1,000. The storm drain markers have arrived and will be installed in the summer as time permits.
5) An antifreeze containment unit will cover any overflow or leakage from the two barrels used to store
the liquid waste. Amount approved is up to $2,000. No action has been taken on this project yet. Evaluation is
being done on the size unit and placement of unit at DPW.
6) Additional hours being allocated to part-time staff (Transfer Station Operators) would be used to
monitor recycling in the field and to provide public education so to reduce recycling contamination. Amount
approved is up to $8,000 per year. This will be reviewed annually. Due to winter weather and staff shortage,
this was not implemented in FY25/26. It will be reviewed and considered again by Town Council in FY26/27.
The Public Works Department is currently coordinating the implementation of these initiatives. Further updates
on these initiatives will be reported as they progress.
Coventry Village Water Tower Project: The Town was notified last year by Congressman Courtney that we
have received a Congressional Directed Spending (CDS) grant of $1 million toward the construction of an
elevated water tower to strengthen and improve the village water system. The water tower would provide
additional pressure and steady volume of water for the system. This is especially important for fire suppression
systems that are needed for new commercial development and historic mill re-development in Coventry Village.
This project could also improve the fire suppression systems at the high school, the middle school, and GHR.
The total project was estimated to be $2.5 million. The request made by the Town was for $1.875 million
dollars. The grant requires at least a 25% match. The grant will be administered starting in 2025-26 through
the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Program. The Town coordinated with Connecticut
Water Company on possible locations. Connecticut Water conducted a review and made recommendations for
the siting of the Tower. They presented the findings of the review to the Finance Committee on October 30th.
Town Engineer Todd Penney presented their recommendations to Town Council on November 3, 2025. As the
Water Tower Project was found to best be sited on the Stonehouse Road property, the Town Council approved
the use of the unspent preliminary engineering funds to be used to evaluate that site. The Town Engineer has
prepared an RFP for preliminary engineering and will be putting this out later this summer. The Town staff
have applied for State bonding funds to cover the full cost of the Project, which is now estimated to be $3
million. Local businesses, including Teleflex, have shown interest in the extra fire protection the water tower
would provide.
Plains Road/Salt Impacted Potable Wells: This water extension project involves much coordination with the
Connecticut Water Company to complete. They have agreed to connect a newly constructed water line to their
existing system in the Nathan Hale Drive area. The Town currently has State grant funding (EPA Funding to
CT) pledged for approval for 50%. CT Department of Health (DPH) informed us that we have secured a Small
Disadvantaged Communities (SDC) grant from the U.S. EPA in the amount of $787,000 to add on top of the
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approximate 50% subsidy. This will reduce the Town’s expenses to less than 25% of the total project cost.
The construction cost is estimated to be $2.6 million. The survey work is complete. Our contract engineer,
GZA Geoenvironmental, Inc., has completed the engineering and has completed permitting. The project was
presented to the Town Council at the January 21, 2025 Town Council meeting. The Town Council determined
at that meeting that this project should be placed on a future public referendum requesting authorization for debt
to construct the improvements. At the February 18, 2025 meeting the Town Council authorized funding for
permitting that would allow the installation of a water line along the South Street extension right of way.
Application has been made for SRF grant/loan funds so that funding may be designated by the State. The Town
has since received a DPH notice of funding for the project. This would include additional funding for possible
project contingency needs. The funds are now pledged but will be obligated by DPH after completion and
execution of the loan documents. The project was put out to bid last month. Eleven bids were received on May
22nd. Several qualified companies in Connecticut and Massachusetts put in a proposal. VMS Construction of
Vernon, CT was the apparent low bidder at $1,383,579.00 . Proposals are being reviewed. Bids received can be
viewed at this link: https://www.coventry-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10681/Plains-Road-bid-openingRESULTS?bidId=151 . The bids have been determined to be fully qualified, and have this week been
forwarded to the CT DPH for their review and acceptance. DPH has approved the bids and authorized the
Town to award the contract. We have begun discussions on the documents needed and the process for
financing with grants and 50% forgivable low interest loans. The Town advertised for proposals and
interviewed two engineering firms (SLR and GM2) for consideration of providing construction inspection
services. SLR Consulting was ranked highest due to their extensive utility experience and were also approved
by DPH. The project is scheduled to start construction on September 9th with a substantial completion date of
January 1, 2027.
Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) - Plant upgrade vs. Willimantic Wastewater Treatment
Plant (WWTP) connection: The engineers, Tighe & Bond, completed their review of the costs to connect our
wastewater system to the Willimantic WWTP in 2024. The study shows that the connection to the treatment
plant in Willimantic will be nearly the same cost as the upgrade to the existing Coventry WWTP. However,
with that reported, it is likely that the Town would be eligible for more grant funding for the Coventry WWTP
upgrade than a line extension to the Willimantic WWTP. The study was forwarded to the Department of
Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for their review and comment. Town staff, our engineering
consultants and the WPCA did meet with DEEP representatives in June 2024. DEEP indicated that the WPCA
will need to conduct an environmental impact study regarding the preferred option of upgrading the wastewater
treatment plant. The Town must take action one way or the other as the Coventry WWTP does not meet current
State wastewater treatment standards. The WPCA selected an independent firm to conduct the evaluation of the
upgrade of the Wastewater Treatment Plant project under the requirements of the Connecticut Environmental
Protection Act (CEPA). Request for Qualifications (RFQs) were received December 19, 2024. Only one was
received by SLR International Corporation of New Haven, CT. An interview was held in March 2025. The
WPCA has contracted for services for the CEPA project. This study is expected to take one year to complete.
The contractor has lost staff and was delayed in their project start time. It is expected to be completed by late
fall 2026. DEEP will then review the study and provide comments by April of 2027. After taking the DEEP
comments into consideration, the Town will be able to move towards engineering and design.
Bolton/Coventry Sewer Extension: The Town has planned for a sewer line extension project from the existing
sewer service in the Town of Bolton eastward along US Route 44 into the town of Coventry. This was planned
in the expectation that the Town may attract additional commercial growth along that corridor, which currently
has some commercial development. Town staff negotiated with the Bolton Lakes Water Pollution Control
Authority on the connection fees to their utility system. The BLWPCA and the Town have not come to an
agreement on connection fees. The costs presented have been excessive. Also, after the town approves the
connection fees, a separate agreement will be required to address maintenance requirements which include
annual use fees, billing, permitting, flows, etc. The Town has also been in communication with the United
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States EPA about the grant contract. The project is partially funded through the passage of the Consolidated
Appropriations Act, 2023, Community Projects grants. Additional funding will be required possibly through
bonding and sewer connection assessments. Without additional funding, this project cannot move ahead. We
will continue to explore our options for additional funding for this project. We have learned that this money, if
not used for the Bolton project, could possibly be re-directed to another sewer project such as the WWTP. We
plan to evaluate return of investment for this project with the assistance of the Connecticut Municipal
Development Authority (CMDA), once they begin engaging our community this fall.
Coventry Lake/Lake Wangumbaug Hydrilla Control Project: The Town has received the CT Department
of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) grant for the 2026
fluoridone treatments. The Town will receive $75,000. Matching funds and funds for monitoring the lake have
been proposed in the FY2026-27 Budget. Summer 2026 marks the third year of the three-year Treatment Plan
that has been recommended by our consultants (Northeast Aquatic Research) in 2023. The Treatments for 2026
started on July 20th and will occur again on August 24th and September 21st . An analysis of the effectiveness of
the treatments will be done later this year by NEAR and reported to the Coventry Lake Advisory and
Monitoring Committee.
Booth and Dimock Library Historic Preservation Grant: The Town was selected to receive the $6000
grant by the State Historic Preservation Office for repairs to the historic portion of the Booth and Dimock
Library. The project specifically will make repairs to the framing and joists supporting the floors in the reading
rooms under the bookshelves. The project is estimated at $12,000 with the library providing the State grant
match from their endowment fund. Proulx Building and Remodeling LLC of Stafford Springs has been
contracted to complete the work. Construction is expected to be completed this summer.
Patriots Park Improvement Project: A Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant was
awarded by the State to the Town in 2024 in the amount of $315,000 for Patriots Park improvements. The grant
project totals $350,000, including a $5,000 donation from the Coventry Lions Club and the municipal match of
$30,000. Additionally, the Town has allocated Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP grant) funding (FY
23-FY26) in the amount of $93,000 and has provided in-house labor to prepare the site and construct the wall.
The project involves improvements to the pavilion, playground replacement, fencing and geese deterrent
measures. In late 2024 and early 2025, the Town conducted a master plan process for the park. Using that
design, the Town Engineer has prepared a plan for the new playground area. The Town Crew has nearly
completed constructing the wall and playscape pad, providing two level play areas for equipment installations.
Kompan Inc. has been awarded the contract to construct the playscape in the park for $296,033. The
installation work will start and end in September. As stated above, part of this STEAP grant project was the
geese deterrent/mitigation issue. They have negatively impacted water quality for the Town’s beach operations.
GZA has completed the construction of a water circulator that is to periodically mix the water to reduce the
potential growth of bacteria in the swim area. In 2025, the beach was closed for over 30 days during swim
season due to high bacteria counts. Health Director Rob Miller and Dr. Bob Kortman proposed the circulator as
the use of a boat motor in the swim area improved water quality levels last summer. The new circulator was
placed in the Lake just outside of the swim area on May 20th and once power was installed it has been in
operation since June 12th. The Eastern Highland Health District has reported that the level of bacteria in the
water at Patriots’ Park Beach has significantly been lower than last year. This leads them to believe the
circulator has made a difference in water quality for those using the beach. The overall project has been
projected to be completed by early fall. As the Town has this project under construction, we are eligible to
apply for future STEAP grant funding when the State decides to open a new round application for funding. The
Town Council was briefed on this STEAP Grant project at their October 20, 2025, Town Council Meeting.

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Nearly completed wall and playscape pad in Patriots Park

Water Circulator installed on anchored raft adjacent to swimming area at Patriots Park Beach
Main Street/South Street Pedestrian Crossing Project: The Town was awarded a Transportation Rural
Improvement Program (TRIP) grant in 2024, which was a newly created state grant program designed to support
rural municipalities, which are often ineligible for many federal transportation programs. The grant is $498,000.
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This is a 100% funded grant for construction, with engineering being the responsibility of the Town. This project
will provide crosswalks and pedestrian safety features along Main Street in the Village and along South Street.
Improvements will include signage, flashing lights and curb ramps (sidewalk bumps) that are compliant with the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additional engineering was required. Town Engineer Todd Penney
expressed the need for additional funding for consulting engineers to complete the design engineering at the
March 12th Budget meeting. Engineering for this project has been delayed due to workload of in-house
engineering staff. Design is nearing completion and it will go to bid this fall pending engineering staff capacity.
The project is now planned for construction in Spring 2027.
Main Street sidewalk project: This project is funded by a Community Connectivity grant. This project will
begin at Hemlock Point Lane and go northeasterly to Winterberry. The design had been reviewed in 2024 by
CDOT for permitting and rejected. Construction plans have been amended to move retaining walls outside of
the right of way at the request of CDOT. Work involved acquiring additional easements in 2025 for retaining
walls. Easements are now complete. Engineering staff capacity has delayed this project. The Town Engineer
plans to place this project out to bid this summer. Construction is now expected to be delayed until
spring/summer 2027. Upon completion of this project the Town will be eligible to apply for another
Community Connectivity grant to extend the sidewalk further on Main Street to Lisicke Park and additionally
westward to Daly Road. This will eventually connect to planned (currently in design) future sidewalks along
Daly Road. When all is complete within the next few years, there will be sidewalks in place that circle
Coventry Lake.
Hale Trails Project: This is a Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
grant. The project budget is $500,000 and is funded 50% State and 50% local. The Town’s match is primarily
in-kind services and in-house engineering. The project design is currently paused to evaluate the wetland
impact and possible alternative crossings on Bear Swamp Road at Rufus Creek. Staff had a meeting with the
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to explain project difficulties in working with the
wetland component of the project and have found that we can phase the project with the current award and
apply for additional funding at a later cycle to address the wetland crossing or bypass. This project has been
placed on hold as additional engineering is needed to reflect project changes.
Broad Way Culvert: This culvert has been falling since 2020, when a collapse and wash out of half the pipe
and part of the road resulted in a temporary fix involving an undersized pipe acquired during the supply
shortage of the COVID -19 pandemic. Town staff at the time attempted to get funding as this large culvert may
have been considered a bridge and eligible for Federal/State grants. All searches for grant funding failed as the
culvert is one foot shorter than the required amount of length to be classified a “Bridge” under Federal/State
grant funding regulations. In Spring of 2024 more piping failed as the road sunk and large sink holes appeared.
Again, temporary patches were made. New staff members who had come on board searched again for grant
funds, but found the same restrictions still applied leaving no option for Federal/State grants. This past fall
Town staff applied for bonding funds from the State Bonding Commission for the replacement of the large
culvert. With support of our State legislative delegation the project has been funded by the State Bonding
Commission. The Town Engineer’s projected cost for the project is $1,095,200. The project is being funded at
2,750,000 to include a contingency amount for unexpected costs. The CT DOT has contacted us this week and
we will be discussing the engineering needs. The State has indicated that they will be administering the project.
Root Road-failing drainage pipe crossing: There was a sink hole that formed in the road just southwest of the
intersection with Cooper Lane about two weeks ago. DPW staff filled the hole and patched the road. The
Town Engineer and DPW staff have been monitoring the pipe. There is no expectation of an immediate failure,
but there is concern that the pipe may need to be replaced sooner than a normal yearlong engineering/permitting
process normally takes. It is possible that there could be further sinkholes which could pose a danger to traffic.
The Town has built up some funding in our LOTCIP Fund for culvert repair and we are exploring an expedited
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process with Inland Wetlands and with engineering to replace this pipe. As always, moving this project
forward for engineering as a priority will cause another capital grant project or projects to delay with the
schedule. More information will be provided as the on-going review of this issue moves forward.
Depot Road Bridge replacement: The Town has been awarded a $7.4 million State/Federal grant for 100%
funding for this project. The State has agreed to provide engineering with one of their consulting engineers.
CHA Engineering of Rocky Hill, CT has been assigned the project by the Connecticut DOT. Scouring tests
have been completed showing that replacement is warranted. In October 2025 the State notified the Town that
they have funded design engineering so it can move forward.
Brigham Hill Bridge replacement: The Town has been awarded a $5.2 million State/Federal grant for 100%
funding for this project. The State has agreed to provide engineering with one of their consulting engineers.
CHA Engineering of Rocky Hill, CT has been assigned the project by the Connecticut DOT. Scouring tests
have been completed showing that replacement is warranted. In October 2025, the State notified the Town that
they will be designating funds for design engineering so it can then move forward. The award of budgeted
funding for this project in the CDOT Budget has not yet been announced.
Bunker Hill Bridge Replacement (Rufus Creek): Though this project is described as a bridge, it is described
more accurately as a large culvert structure that is constructed under the roadway. The project is in design with
Nathan Jacobson Engineering. In 2025 the Town coordinated with the Town of Andover, as they had a bridge
project over the Hop River along Bunker Hill Road. The Town of Coventry did not want to isolate the residents
on this road with two construction projects active at the same time. As Andover’s construction began in 2025,
we had to delay construction of this project until summer 2026. CDOT gave the Town an extension on this
grant award. The Town was awarded a $700,000 grant for this project. This is a 50/50 State/Local funded
project. The local match ($700,000) was budgeted with existing road bond funds. In 2025 the Inland Wetlands
Agency issued a permit. Trees have been cleared to allow for construction. Bids were received on April 9th.
The results of the bids are at this link on our website: https://www.coventryct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10472/Bid-opening-results-Bunker-Hill-Road-Bridge-Replacement?bidId=147 .
Dayton Construction Inc. of Watertown, CT was the low bidder at $984,500 and they have been awarded the
contract. This construction company has a good reputation. They did the bridge/culvert replacement for the
State in front of Coventry Market on U.S. Route 44. The Contractor will mobilize in late August, and the road
will be closed until the end of November 2026. The Bunker Hill Bridge Replacement Project is estimated to
cost a total of $1,400,000 (including engineering). State grant money ($700,000) funds 50% of this
project. The remaining 50% ($700,000) was approved by voters in 2023 as the Bunker Hill Bridge was one of
the designated projects included in the 2023 Road Bond which allocated a total of $4,865,000 for the designated
projects.
Parker Bridge Road-Bridge (Culvert) replacement grant: In 2023 the Town applied for Federal/State
funding to replace the smaller bridge on Parker Bridge Road. It is actually a large culvert that the adjacent
creek runs through. The grant was not funded that year. Staff again applied for this funding for the 2024 grant
cycle. The Town was awarded a $714,000 grant for this project. The total project cost is $1,428,000. This is a
50/50 State/Local funded project. The local match ($714,000) was budgeted with the 2023 Road Bond funds.
The project is now in engineering. A preliminary design plan is complete. Easements are being sought from
adjacent property owners now. The CT Fisheries conducted a study in June to see if fish were present that may
have been prevented from travelling through the current culvert and the proposed new one as it was designed.
Their conclusion was no fish were present and the Town could proceed with our current design. If they had
been found in the study, alterations to the plans would have been required which would have increased the
construction costs. The Town has scheduled a public involvement meeting for the Parker Bridge Road project
so to explain the planned improvements and to seek input on the proposed plans.
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Flanders Rd/Cider Mill Bridge: The Town was awarded a federal bridge replacement grant in 2025. We
have contracted and obligated these Federal grant funds. The State has changed the process and time frame of
this project. They were hoping to complete multiple bridges with five towns with one design/contactor. That
changed in late 2025. The State will directly contract engineering and then directly hire a separate contractor.
The Towns of Mansfield and Coventry will be included in the design phase and will coordinate efforts. A
project meeting was held with the project engineers and the Town of Mansfield on December 11, 2025. The
project is now planned to begin with a public meeting in 2026; followed by design completion in 2028; and then
construction to be completed by December 2030 (four years later than first suggested by CDOT). The
estimated cost of the project is $7,070, 000. The State/Federal grant award is to be 100% funded.
South Street/Swamp Road Project: This is a major project that will improve safety on these roads and will
raise the elevation of the intersection of South Street and Swamp Road. Preliminary plans are complete. This
project was reviewed by the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) in fall of 2022. The comments
caused minor adjustments to be made to the preliminary plans. The revised plans were presented at the public
involvement meeting that was held on October 24, 2023. It was well attended by the residents of the area.
Public involvement meetings are required by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) for funding
from the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP). Good feedback from
residents/property owners was received by staff and the project engineers. In late 2024, design plans were
amended further to include a gap area along South Street and the State awarded an additional $442,800 to cover
this area. The design amendments did not significantly delay the project’s engineering; however, this addition
required the need to acquire multiple new easements. The focus now is on easement acquisitions from property
owners. The Town Council has approved additional funding to complete this process in a timely manner.
Bidding for this project will be in summer of 2026. Construction is now planned to begin in spring of 2027.

Daly Road Construction Project: This is a road and sidewalk construction project from Rt. 31 to South Street.
Two Local Option Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) grants have been approved and
have been combined into one project. The project is estimated to cost $3,000,000. Grant funding for
construction is 100%. The project will modify curves and increase pedestrian safety. Funding for design will
be funded by the Town. Barton and Loguidice of Glastonbury is conducting engineering on this project. The
preliminary design has been reviewed by CRCOG and CDOT. Now that all preliminary plans have been
approved, design engineering is the next step. This funding is the match requirement from the Town. There are
currently insufficient funds in CNREF. This project is now paused. The Town will need to consider
possible sources to fund this next step of this project. This expense, estimated to cost about $450,000,
could be funded in a potential Road Bond that Town Council has discussed for later in 2026.
Road resurfacing/drainage Improvements: The Town has reviewed road conditions for this year’s summer
paving. Leslie Lane is the next priority project on our list. Paden Road and Springdale were also being
considered for paving improvements; however, they are unfortunately now not expected to get paved as
$100,000 was cut in the third Town Council proposed FY 26/27 Budget. With less funds budgeted for roads
this next fiscal year, our funding will not go too far with the summer paving projects. The future of most road
paving may have to be borrowing money through a road bond. The Town is currently collecting data on road
conditions townwide.

Fire Chief Memo to the Town Council:
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21

UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
Coventry Town Council Special Meeting
August 31, 2026
7:00 PM
Town Hall Annex
1.Call to Order:
The Meeting was called to order by Council Chairwoman Lisa Thomas at 7:03 PM
Members Present: Lisa Thomas-Chairwoman, Matthew Kyer-Secretary, Jon Hand, Robyn Gallagher, Mark
Wheaton, Julie Blanchard, and Peter Larson-Vice Chairman (joined at 7:20 PM).
Absent: None
Also Present: James Drumm-Town Manager.
2. Executive Session:
 Pending Litigation:
Motion: I move that the Town Council enter into Executive Session pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes
1-200(6)(B)-discussion of strategy and negotiation with respect to pending claims and litigation to which the
public agency or a member thereof, because of the member’s conduct as a member of such agency, is a party
until such litigation claim has been finally adjudicated or otherwise settled with the following people in
attendance, all present members of the Town Council (Lisa Thomas, Matthew Kyer, Jonathan Hand, Robyn
Gallagher, Peter Larson, Julie Blanchard, and Mark Wheaton), Town Manager James Drumm, and Town
Attorney Jennifer Pedevillano.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: None
Vote: Unanimously in favor.
The Town Council entered Executive Session at 7:13 PM and exited Executive Session at 7:45 PM.
3. Unfinished Business:
3.A. 25/26-57: Consideration/possible action: Send Charter Revision Questions to November ballot:
Thomas reminded that all Councilors had agreement that the changes and recommendations brought forward
from the Charter revision process were really important. However, there was a disagreement on the current
sections 9-3(a) and 9-3(e). Since there were disagreements on the language/contents, it was decided to separate
this out as its own question. Thomas continued that she did not want this disagreement to tank the rest of the
Charter as it was supported by all Councilors to go forward.
Thomas shared that in the meeting with the town attorney, he explained that the 1st question on the ballot
regarding on the Charter should be about the particular section, and then the 2nd question would be about
adopting the rest of the Charter except for the section in question 1.

1

Thomas continued that the questions were written by the Town Attorneys and are required to be as brief and
concise as possible per statute. The explanatory text can be more detailed. During the meeting with the attorney,
it was discussed to have the explanatory text as clear as possible and prepared as soon as possible for
distribution to the community. Preliminary information went out in the Community Update and is available on
the town website. The explanatory text is required by statute to be written by the Town Clerk but reviewed by
the Town Attorney. Once the Town Council passed the resolution, they are done with their part of the process.
The questions will begin appearing on the ballot beginning October 19th (for early voting).
Motion: I move that the Town Council adopt Resolution 2026-10, A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN
COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF COVENTRY CONNECTICUT, PLACING THE RECCOMENDATIONS OF
THE COVENTRY CHARTER REVISION COMMISSION, AS APPROVED BY THE COVENTRY TOWN
COUNCIL, ON THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 BALLOT AS TWO QUESTIONS; DIRECTING THE
PREPARATION OF ACCOMPANYING EXPLANATORY TEXT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
By: Hand

Second: Gallagher

Discussion: Blanchard expressed that she would like to see the explanatory text for review prior to it going out.
Drumm explained that once the resolution is passed, the explanatory text will need to be written by the Town
Clerk, as a neutral party, and Town Attorney will review to ensure legality. However, it does not come back to
the Town Council to avoid a political angle.
Larson commented that even though the Council cannot change it, it seems like a good idea for the Town
Council to see it first. Thomas reiterated that she asked the Town Attorney and Town Manager to have it
completed as soon as possible for the community to see what they are voting on. The explanatory text will be
posted in multiple locations, and inside the voting booths on election day.
Wheaton shared concerns with the way question 1 was written, as it does not explain the percentage amount, but
just the fact that a dollar amount is being switched to a percentage. He continued that this was the area of
disagreement because while he and Blanchard agreed switching to a percentage was the right move, the
percentage amount was too high in their opinion. Wheaton discussed seeing this question as a regular voter; he
would be inclined to vote yes as the percentage amount is not listed, just the fact that the town is switching to a
percentage. He stressed the importance of the explanatory text, as it fills in the blanks.
Thomas stated that she did ask the attorney about the question being more specific, but since there are multiple
percentages in this section, it would alter the question to the point that it is not clear and concise. Blanchard
shared that this is the reason she has concerns about not being able to see the explanatory text.
Drumm explained that the explanatory text will not go into all the details, but it will explain that changes were
made like capitalization and renumbering, but it will not go into detail of every section. However, the more
substantial changes will have more information. Additionally, there will be separate explanatory texts for
questions 1 and 2. Thomas reminded that even though the Town Clerk will be writing the explanatory text, town
staff who have been involved with the process and are aware of the Town Council's concerns can provide input
2

and aid in providing necessary information. Blanchard questioned who created the ballot questions in the
resolution; Thomas replied that it was the attorney.
Kyer stated that he felt the wording of these questions seem obtuse. He asked what else is available for citizens
to understand this in layman's terms. Thomas stated that every single Charter Revision document from the entire
process is available on the town website. She continued that information that these documents are available was
included in the Community Update, as well as FB posts throughout the process. Kyer emphasized that
information should be pushed from now until November 3rd. Thomas shared that she believes they have used
every outlet at their disposal throughout the process but can still share information with citizens until the
election. Hand reminded that all the documents have been included on Town Council agendas as well.
Kyer explained that not everyone is going to go back to agendas, and all the minutes etc. He clarified that social
media is a great tool to continue to share information but wanted to get more information on easier options for
residents. Drumm stated that people will not have to go through all documents, and on the Charter Revision
Commission page there are links to final copies of the Charter (both clean and redline versions), and the
explanatory chart with reasoning behind the changes. It was suggested to direct residents to this page, as well as
having printed copies available at the Library, Town Clerk's Office, School Offices, and the Senior Center.
Drumm explained that the town was required to put an advertisement in the paper as well, and it was printed in
the Chronicle last week. Wheaton suggested having residents talk to one or more Town Councilors directly to
get their individual opinions on the Charter.
Blanchard shared frustration that all the information is available, but then they still hear residents say they didn't
see it, or didn't know, etc. Hand reminded that there are approximately 2,000 cable subscribers in town and
suggested trying to push information out through the municipal government channel.
Voting:
For: Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Thomas, Larson, Blanchard, and Wheaton.
Against:
Abstain:
4. Adjournment:
Motion: I move that the Town Council adjourn the meeting at 8:09 PM.
By: Blanchard

Second: Hand

The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 PM by unanimous vote.
Respectfully Submitted,

Nicole Archambault
Nicole Archambault, Minutes Clerk

3

PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not official until approved by the Coventry Town Council at the next
Town Council meeting. Please see the next Town Council meeting minutes for approval or changes to these
minutes.

4

Volunteer wanted to serve as Coventry representative on the Connecticut Water Customer
Advisory Council :
The Town of Coventry is seeking a Coventry resident who is a CT Water Company customer to
serve on this advisory council, which meets quarterly to discuss matters of importance to
Connecticut Water customers in the communities they serve. The Council provides a forum for
discussing water service, infrastructure investment, water quality, affordability programs, and
other issues affecting CT Water customers and their communities. The next meeting of the
Customer Advisory Council is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from noon – 1 PM at
the CT Water State Operations Center, 55 Sebethe Drive, Cromwell, CT. A remote meeting
option will be available via Microsoft Teams.
To apply please complete a Statement of Interest form online at https://www.coventryct.gov/FormCenter/Volunteerism-Forms-9/Statement-of-Interest-In-Serving-on-a-To-48,
or apply in person at the Coventry Town Clerk’s office during normal business hours. Please
apply by September 23, 2026.

UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
Town Council Steering Committee Meeting
August 24, 2026
7:00 PM
Town Hall Conference Rm. B
1. Call To Order, Roll Call;
The meeting was called to order by Chair Jonathan Hand at 7:00 PM
Members Present: Jonathan Hand-Chairperson, Matthew Kyer, Mark Wheaton, and Lisa Thomas (Ex-Officio
Member & Council Chairwoman).
Absent: None
Also Present: James Drumm-Town Manager and Alex Taylor-Special Projects Coordinator.
2. Acceptance Of Minutes, July 27, 2026:
Motion: Kyer moved to accept the minutes of July 27, 2026, Wheaton seconds.
Discussion/Changes: None
Vote: Unanimously in favor.
3. Reports:
3.A. Chairperson: None
3.B. Committee Members: None
3.C. Monthly Board and Commission Reports:
Vacancy Report:
Thomas asked about a listed vacancy on the Ad-Hoc Farmer's Market Operating Committee, which didn't seem
to be correct. A previous member of the committee was concerned she was not on the committee anymore as
she is not a Coventry resident. However, she is still considered on the committee, just as a non-voting member.
She was asked to resubmit her statement of interest for a new term several times, which has not been done yet.
The member has also not officially resigned. However, members continue to "serve" until there is a replacement
for the position. This member currently serves as the representative for CT Landmarks, as required by the
charge of the Committee.
Wheaton asked for a follow-up on the Coventry Vision Committee. Drumm explained that staff looked into
how many households still use cable, and it was determined to be around 2,000 households, so they deemed it
worthy to keep Coventry Vision active.
Kyer discussed a vacancy on the EDC, which was last held by a Republican. He shared that it would be a good
idea to have the RTC recruit a member to fill that seat if possible. Hand reviewed the membership and number
of seats on the committee. There are 2 Democrats, 2 Republicans, and 4 Unaffiliated, so the 9th member could
be from any political party. Kyer commented that there have been no applicants and felt that the EDC was an
important Commission to have full membership.

1

It was discussed that there is a member listed as both vacant and current member as an alternate for the PZC.
Drumm stated that he thinks the PZC has full membership and will check on this. It was unknown if the PZC is
supposed to have 2 or 3 alternates, and Drumm will need to verify before recruiting another member happens.
Expiration Report:
No Discussion
Board Member Report:
Hand pointed out that the title was changed to the report to incorporate "Town Council Appointed". He
continued that only including positions in the report that are appointed by the Town Council was requested at
the last meeting and will make the report shorter and more focused.
Wheaton questioned the status of the VNA, as it was discussed previously, but there was no definitive decision
made about it. Hand pointed out that there is the Visiting Nurses Board of Directors and the VNA East. Drumm
shared that he discussed this with the Town Clerk who contacted the member on the report for verification and
clarified that this position is no longer functional or needed. Thomas stated that many visiting nurse associations
have switched to Hartford Healthcare at home. It was suggested to remove these positions from the Board
Member report as the regional committee they served on is no longer operational. Kyer suggested reaching out
to the members 1 more time to verify and thank them for their service. Once verified that the regional
committee is no longer active, these positions will be pulled from the report.
Motion: I move to move Agenda Item 9 up on the agenda to take place before Agenda Item 4.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: None
Vote: Unanimously in favor
9. Consideration/Possible Action: Establishment of a new Youth Services Advisory Board:
Motion: I move to recommend to the full Town Council to establish a new Youth Services Advisory Board and
adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF COVENTRY CONNECTICUT,
ESTABLISHING A “YOUTH SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD”; ESTABLISHING PURPOSE, CHARGE,
MEMBERSHIP, REPRESENTATION, OFFICERS; MEETINGS; REPORTS; STAFF; MINUTES; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: Hunan Services Administrator Madison Baranowski was in attendance to discuss the changes that
were incorporated as requested by the Steering Committee at the last meeting:
 Removed the 1st part that referenced disbanding the Human Services Advisory Board.
 Language changes to include “Two members shall be under 21” to allow for more youth on the Board.
o Baranowski clarified that they did not include an affiliation with Coventry schools as they wanted the
opportunity to be open to other Coventry students.
 Included a more clear breakdown of member requirements, including that at least 5 members shall be voting
members.
2

o This includes anyone who is 18 and registered to vote.
A resolution is not needed to disband the Human Services Advisory Board; this can be done with a simple
motion at a later date. Drumm explained that they have held off on doing so, until the new Board was
established.
Vote: Unanimously in favor.
Motion: I move to move Agenda Item 6 up as the next order of business.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: None
Vote: Unanimously in favor.
6. Consideration/possible action: Modification to job description, Senior Center Van Driver:
Motion: I move to recommend to the full Town Council to adopt the job description for the Senior Center
Van/Bus Driver.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: Drumm shared that last year, and intern suggested that it would be easier to recruit drivers for the
van if a certain endorsement was removed from the licensing requirements. Once this was done, a driver was
able to be hired. However, Baranowski believes the (F) endorsement needs to be added back.
Drumm stated that this is the only change, reverting the licensing requirement as it was prior. However, the
Steering Committee recognized 2 other changes to other bullet points which were reviewed.
The following changes were made under "Essential Duties and Responsibilities":
 4th bullet changed from “Maintains a clean and well-kept vehicle, reporting any maintenance issues as
needed.” to “Maintains a clean and well-kept vehicle, reporting any maintenance issues or accidents to the
appropriate staff promptly”
o Baranowski suggested that accidents be reported in a timely fashion as this was not included
previously.
th
 5 bullet changed “Ensures passengers are safe and provided with assistance on and off the vehicle as
needed” to “Ensures safe and efficient transportation for passengers and provides assistance with loading
and unloading materials and equipment as needed.”
o This was changed as it could create issues, as the driver is not supposed to be helping passengers on and
off. Baranowski added that residents should be able to get on and off themselves, and don’t want staff
in a position where they have to physically help someone on and off the bus. However, the driver can
help with things like grocery bags. The van/bus is outfitted with a motorized lift if assistance is needed
to get on or off.
o Baranowski further explained that the drivers are trained in operating the lift to get any wheelchairs
secured and on or off the vehicle. She continued if a resident needs further assistance, they are asked to
bring someone with them.
3

o Thomas pointed out that the description aligns with the ADA transport system.
Wheaton discussed the language in the last bullet under "Physical Demands" which states "specific vision
abilities." He continued to get a Class F license, a person is required to have 20/40 vision and suggested that this
be added. Taylor shared that the language is boiler plate. It was also discussed that if they have the Class F
license, then they already meet the "specific vision abilities". Wheaton was OK with leaving it as is.
Kyer also commented that under "Tool and Equipment Used" it specifies the handicap accessible lift.
Vote: Unanimously in favor.
4. Resignations/Not Wishing to be Reappointed:
4.A. Ad-hoc Coventry Lake Advisory & Monitoring Committee – Gallo:
Hand thanked Gallo for his long service on the Ad-hoc Coventry Lake Advisory & Monitoring Committee.
5. Appointments:
5.A. Human Services Advisory Board: (Not Ready for Action):
 Bennett
 Cooper
Drumm clarified that since the new Youth Services Advisory Board was just recommended to the full Council,
these appointments will likely not move forward, as the Human Services Advisory Board will be disbanded in
the near future. This will be removed from the agenda once action is taken at the next Town Council meeting.
This item can then be removed from the Steering agenda, and the candidates (Bennett and Cooper) will be
contacted to let them know the committee no longer exists. It will also be suggested that if they are still willing
to volunteer, they can look at other committees.
5.B. Discussion: Recruitment of community volunteer for Connecticut Water Customer Advisory
Council:
Drumm stated that he believed Thomas had brought this up in the past, as other communities have a
representative on this Council, but Coventry does not. Thomas clarified that she received an email from the CT
Water Customer Advisory Council thanking elected official for their participation, etc. In the email, there was a
list of towns with representatives appointed to the Council, and Coventry did not have a representative on the
list. Thomas continued that there are people in town who are served by CT Water and felt Steering should
discuss recruiting a member of the community who receives water from CT Water to be on that Council. She
added that the Council discusses water quality, testing, and rates. It would be important for Coventry to get this
information and have input. She shared that the next meeting is October 21st and hopes to find someone willing
to serve by then.
Hand shared the requirements for the representative are that they have to be a customer of CT Water and cannot
be an employee of CT Water. Thomas stated that under state law, she is required to make the appointment.
Kyer suggested using social media to reach out to residents to inform them of a volunteer opportunity and it is
free. The post can share that the meetings are an important forum discussing water service, infrastructure
investment, water quality, affordability programs, and other issues affecting customers and communities
throughout the CT Water service territory. It appears the Council meets quarterly.
4

Any interested individuals should still fill out a statement of interest and go through the appointment process.
The Steering Committee had a consensus for a post to be shared on the Town Manager's Facebook page, and for
the DTC and RTC to solicit a candidate as well.
7. Consideration/Possible Action: Modification to job description WPCA Assistant Operator:
Drumm explained that it has been difficult to fill the WPCA Operator 1 vacancy due to a lack of qualified
candidates. Since the WPCA Operator position is a ladder position, it gives those employed the opportunity to
move up with the completion of certification and years of experience. So, the plan is to drop back and try and
fill the vacancy with a qualified WPCA Assistant Operator who can move up to an Operator 1 position over
time.
Upon looking into this, it was realized that the WPCA Assistant Operator job listing hadn't been updated in
some time. It was still in the old format and lacked the required skills necessary for the job. The description will
be updated to have increased responsibilities and duties, so that it is not entry-level but not at the level of
Operator 1.
Taylor added some of the previous responsibilities that the previous Operator 1 held to the job description to
make it a more responsible position. The union has reviewed the job description and agreed to it but requested a
pay grade for the position.
Taylor reviewed the redline version of the job description and highlighted the changes to the language and
responsibilities and duties to reflect what the position is expected to do. It was stated that the required
certifications will need to be obtained within 2 years of employment.
Motion: I move to recommend to the full Town Council to accept the job description of the WPCA Assistant
Operator.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: Kyer commented that Drumm used the term apprentice a few times, and asked for clarification that
it's not really an apprentice as a person could be in this position for several years. Drumm stated that is not
going to be the case as the goal is to have the new Assistant Operator work their way up to Operator 1 or higher
over time. When the previous employee, Charlie Grossman, took the position it was more entry level
apprentice, but he worked his way up to Operator 1. Since filling the Operator 1 position has proved difficult,
the solution is to balance an entry-level/apprentice position with the current needs of the WPCA.
Thomas stated that it is not an apprentice position. Drumm agreed but clarified that it is a self-promoting ladder.
If an Assistant Operator is hired, they must obtain their certifications and will be classified as an Operator 1.
They will also take on more responsibilities and duties as allowed by the certification. However, once promoted
to the next level, there will be no need to hire another Assistant Operator.
Kyer reiterated that they will be approving a job description for a temporary position, as it will no longer be
needed after a person is hired and becomes an Operator 1. Drumm confirmed but stated that if the new plant
requires 3 employees, they may need to use it again to hire a new Assistant Operator.
5

Wheaton discussed the following:
 The term "Desired Minimum Qualifications", and how he thought it should be one or the other, but it was
explained all job descriptions use this, and it was agreed to be left alone.
 Under ‘Desired Minimum Qualifications”, 4th bullet, Wheaton stated that he was not aware of a certification
to operate heavy equipment, like a backhoe, loaders, Kubota tractors, and skid steers.
o Drumm commented that the thought the DPW Director said there was and found that OSHA offers an
online backhoe certification course. However, Drumm will verify.
o Hand suggested removing the term “Kubota” as it is a brand and other tractors could be used.
 Under “Knowledge/Ability”, 2nd bullet under Knowledge, Wheaton explained that he is not aware of laws
and ordinances that are related to small equipment operation,
o Thomas commented that there may be OSHA standards for proper footwear, face coverings, etc.
 Wheaton commented that the 4th bullet under “Abilities” seems unrealistic.
 Wheaton questioned the 2nd bullet under “Desired Minimum Qualifications, as the last word of the subbullet uses the word “preferable” and he was unsure what it was applying to. Taylor commented that from
discussions he felt the whole bullet was preferable but will verify and make the language more explicit.
o The suggestion was to remove the term “preferable”, as these are already desired minimum
qualifications, and it was thought that a CDL could not be obtained without a medical card.
 Pg. 1, 2nd bullet from the bottom, suggested changing “Responsible for boiler treatment dosing equipment
and chemicals” to “Responsible for operating boiler treatment dosing equipment and adding chemicals.”
o Kyer suggested having DPW Director Bill Watkins review the sentence. Taylor will confirm with
Watkins and adjust the sentence.
 Pg. 1, 6th bullet from the bottom, Wheaton questioned what a DO meter is, and felt that it should be spelled
out, as it is less commonly known than a pH meter.
 Pg. 2, 6th bullet, Wheaton questioned if CBYD should be spelled out as not everyone would know what
“Call Before You Dig” is.
 Pg. 2, 5th bullet from the bottom, references appendix B Maintainer II. Wheaton felt that it should be
attached to the description.
o Steering had consensus to attach the appendix to the job description when posting online/recruiting for
the position, as well as on the agenda when this job description is brought to the full Town Council.
o Taylor commented that the list in appendix B Maintainer II is relatively short. Drumm added that if new
equipment was added to the list, it would amend this description automatically.
 Pg. 2, 4th bullet from the bottom, remove the extra comma and space after $20,0000.
Kyer amended his motion:
Motion: I move to recommend to the full Town Council to adopt the job description with the recommended
edits.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Vote: Unanimously in favor.
Hand noted that this job description will be on the next full Town Council agenda with the amendments. Hand
added that the amendments be redlined. Kyer asked if the amended job description could be sent to the Town
Council if available prior to the Thursday before the scheduled meeting.
6

8. Consideration/possible action: Modification of Ordinance No. 42-1, Fee Schedule for Inspection of
Buildings used for public service, manufacturing and occupancies regulated by fire safety code:
Motion: I move to recommend to the full Town Council to adopt modified Ordinance 42-1.
By: Kyer

Second: Wheaton

Discussion: Drumm explained that this is a fee schedule for an existing ordinance for fire inspection services,
and all fees are codified in the codebook. He continued that anytime the town wants to raise a fee for inspection
services, they are required to put an ad in the paper for $1,000, adopt the ordinance, modify the fee, and send it
to the company who then has to reprint the book. This motion will allow the town to adopt these fees by
resolution.
If passed at the full Town Council meeting, there will be a resolution to put the fees in place. Fire Chief Bud
Meyers had explained to Drumm that it has been years since these fees were adjusted, so he would like to
review and adjust them when this is discussed at the Town Council meeting.
Wheaton commented that he was relieved to see that this applies to almost everything except residential homes.
Thomas suggested changing CGS to CT General Statutes.
Vote: Unanimously in favor.
10. Update: Development of a strategic plan for facilities needs:
Drumm explained that town staff need to have another meeting for a strategic plan for facilities needs. Laura
Stone has been polling employees to see when the meeting can be held. This meeting will be held to set the
priorities of the items discussed at the first meeting(s). Drumm stated that the meeting will likely be held the
2nd week of September.
Thomas asked if facilities and infrastructure could be done at the same meeting; Drumm agreed.
11. Discussion: Expanded Veterans Residential Property Tax Exemptions (Not Ready for Action):
Wheaton stated that the last time this was discussed, he thought town staff was going to review for things that
the town has to do. Drumm explained that the town is not required to do any of the tax exemptions as they are
all optional.
Thomas clarified that they are waiting for the potential impact of implementing these tax exemptions. In order
to do that, they are waiting for letters to be returned to the Assessor from qualified families in town that explain
their eligibility. The Assessor is expected to attend the Steering Meeting next month to discuss the impacts.
Drumm shared that at the staff meeting last week, the Assessor shared that the town received 33 new veteran
applicants.
12. Adjournment:
Wheaton moved to adjourn at 8:22 PM, Kyer seconds. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote at 8:22
PM.
7

Submitted by,

Nicole Archambault
Nicole Archambault
Steering Committee Minutes Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not official until approved by the Steering Committee at the next
Steering Committee meeting. Please see the next Steering Committee meeting minutes for approval or
changes to these minutes.

8

UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
Town Council Finance Committee Meeting
August 10, 2026, 7:00 pm
Town Hall Conf. Room B
1. Call to Order, Roll Call:
The Meeting was called to order by Chair Robyn Gallagher at 7:00 PM.
Members Present: Robyn Gallagher-Chairperson, Julie Blanchard, Peter Larson, and Lisa Thomas, Council
Chairwoman & Ex-Officio Member.
Absent: None
Also Present: Cherie Trahan-Finance Director and Acting Deputy Town Manager
2. Acceptance of Minutes, July 13, 2026:
Motion: I move to accept the July 13, 2026, Finance Committee Minutes.
By: Blanchard

Second: Larson

Discussion/Edits:
 Pg. 1, Under 3.C., 2nd bullet, Change “24/26” to “25/26”.
 Pg. 2, Under ‘Code Violation’ Sub-Bullet, add details for the years the violations occurred.
 Pg. 2, 3rd bullet, remove 1st comma, change “and” to “an”, and replace “the” with “July” in front of “15th”.
 Pg. 2, 4th bullet, at the end of the sentence add “, and include HVAC and roof replacement for the high
school.”
 Pg. 3, #3, add “Gallagher asked” at the beginning of the sentence.
 Pg. 5, Under 5., 1st to sentences, rewrite to read, “Blanchard expressed she wanted to discuss Dr. Petrone's
Letter to the Council, which referred to transfers to the 2% fund by July 30th. Blanchard stated that at the
audit meeting that was combined with the BOE, they were told the funds would not be transferred until the
audit verified the number.”
Blanchard requested that the letter be attached to these minutes. The letter can be found at the conclusion of
these minutes.
Voting: Unanimously in favor
3. Reports:
3.A. Committee Chair - Robyn Gallagher: None
3.B. Committee Members: None

3.C. Monthly Financial Reports:
1

Trahan explained that there are no financial reports for July, as the fiscal year has just started and the Finance
Department has been busy closing up year-end. However, the GL is open, the budget has been loaded, and
revenues and expenditures are being recorded. July's financial report will be available at next month's finance
meeting.
Trahan also explained that June's updated report is not available either as it is not complete. She hopes to have a
preliminary June report at the next Finance Committee meeting.
Trahan addressed revenue questions from the last Finance meeting:
 The Sewer Assessment Budget number of $225 was correct. Only the sewer operating fund was booked, not
the sewer assessment fund. This has been corrected, and there is no loss in revenue.
 Debit transactions to the Property Tax Collections account. The amounts were high due to trouble with the
interface from the QDS system to the general ledger. Entries were recorded incorrectly from the transfer.
When staff attempted to correct this and reverse the entries to put them in correctly, they got recorded as a
debit.
o Gallagher summarized that there was roughly $500,000 being posted into current general property
taxes, that were other revenue line items. Trahan confirmed.
o Trahan added that she believes there is going to be about another $208,000 in revenue to be posted to
these accounts from this report. This brings the current shortfall to approximately $226,000.
o Gallagher also questioned whether the entries were ensured they were done correctly afterwards.
Trahan confirmed. Trahan also reminded that they are being balanced with the Collector’s reports and
will be balanced with the bake statements prior to the audit.
o It was requested to have staff provide a report on some of the larger debits for the Finance Committee’s
review. Trahan reminded that this error originated with the system but has been caught and corrected.
She further explained that it took some time to correct but will be correct moving forward.
o Trahan shared that after looking at the projections, she expects that $160,000 of the $205,000
appropriation of fund balance will be needed. There are surpluses from other revenue accounts that will
help reduce that amount.
o Blanchard asked about the following items from the report:
 Unanticipated revenue- Trahan explained that these are things that haven’t been budgeted for. She
believed the one in the report was funds returned from CIRMA.
 State of CT Casino Funds-Blanchard stated that $13,000 was appropriated, but it appears only
$4,400 was received. Trahan shared that this might just be a portion of it, and the remaining
amount has not been booked yet.
o Gallagher suggested, since items are still being booked, if Trahan can come prepared to explain
anything that is greater than 50% from the budget or equal to more than $5,000 from the budget next
meeting.
3.D. Board Of Education Reports-June 2026:
Gallagher questioned if Trahan was aware if the Finance Committee would receive the BOE Fiscal Year End
reports by the next meeting. Trahan explained that they need to be entered into the EFS system by September 1st
so they should be.
2

She also made the following comments about the BOE reports:
 She shared that she submitted her reports to the BOE in January, May, and July to be balanced. She received
entries to book back on the general fund and preschool but has not received information for any other
accounts.
o Trahan noted she is off on both revenues and expenditures for the preschool account, so she needs more
information from the BOE.
 Trahan reminded that in May, the BOE transferred $783,000 from salaries and benefits to supplies, purchase
services, and property.
o When Trahan was balancing reports, she noticed there was $500,000 in open encumbrances, which is
unusual.
o She explained that this is a significant transfer for a budget that was reduced already before they started,
and there is still a significant amount in open encumbrances.
 Gallagher questioned why there was that amount able to be transferred in salaries and benefits.
Trahan explained that she does not receive the details for this account but was told there were
unpaid absences from multiple teachers being on unpaid leave. She shared that when this is
typically the case, there are overages in the temps/substitute lines, but this item had an excess as
well.
 Trahan expressed that in order to get further information, as the Council is entitled to, they can
request what positions make up this budget number. That should provide the Council with a list of
positions and estimated amounts. She added that while it is not appropriate to monitor the BOE
budgets on a monthly basis, she can look into them more routinely moving forward.
 It was expressed that in the meantime questions should be asked about these savings.
 Trahan also reviewed the 2% fund, which currently has $231,000, with an anticipated $145,000 to be added
bringing the total to $377,000. Trahan explained that from what she understands, the BOE year end
surpluses were typically not as high as they have been for the past few years. She suggested doing a BOE
budget-to-actual comparison for the last 5 years.
o Gallagher believes that this has to do with the BOE Business Manager’s conservative approach to Social
Security budgeting.
o Gallagher reminded that the Council can’t dictate how the BOE does their budget.
o Thomas suggested bringing these questions from the Finance Committee to the next Joint Fiscal meeting.
Having this information will help them plan for budget, better understand the situation so that services or
teachers aren't lost, and so the Council can make better decisions with requests for emergency funding.
o Gallagher asked Trahan to mockup some questions for her to send to the BOE with the data she has
collected.
Blanchard shared concerns that the number of BOE reports has gotten significantly lower. Gallagher stated she
believes this to be because it is Summer. However, Blanchard noted that the 2% fund report is missing.
Gallgher shared that the Finance Committee can request this, but the BOE might be busy as well with year-end
closing, additionally they have fewer meetings in the summer.

3.E. ECHIP Update: Claims and reserve balance:
3

Gallagher shared that there is not much of an update at this time, but this item will remain on the agenda as a
continuing item. Trahan agreed that was a good idea and shared that in July, claims to Cigna Direct were
$160,000 so far. She stated she did not find this to be too bad, but it is still low considering they are working off
of the run-out claims. She shared that she has a call with them later in the week and will have updated
information for the next meeting.
3.F. Update: Fiscal Year End:
It was reminded that this is still in process. Trahan shared that tax collections for July have totaled $11.5M so
far, putting the town in a good position.
Trahan shared that she does not have final figures for expenditures, but balances have been liquidated on POs
that hadn't been spent down as well as a spending freeze being in place. Even with the snow removal and OSHA
appropriations, the town will remain in budget with an expected surplus that can go back to fund balance.
3.G. Update: Bond/BAN sale:
Trahan shared the towns bond rating is an AA+ this year, maintaining the rating from the previous year. The
BAN rating is SP1+, which is good as well. She stressed the importance of maintaining these ratings.
The town went to market and received 7 bids on the bonds and 4 on the notes. The bond bid was awarded to
Brownstone Investments with a true interest cost of 3.67%. She expressed that she is happy with this as it is in
line with neighboring towns. Gallagher questioned how this compares to what was budgeted for debt service.
Trahan shared that she has not run the numbers but stated that this is typical to what the last bond issue was.
The interest on the notes is 2.94%. The sale closes this week, and then the funds will be in our account.
The plan is to immediately pay off the Bond Anticipation Note from 2025. However, the town will need to
contribute some cash to this as well, as the BAN is $9.5M. This is due to the fact that when borrowing last year,
the town borrowed the full amount of what was expected to be reimbursed from the state. Now that
reimbursements have been received, they need to go back to pay off the BAN. Trahan reminded that they were
only able to get a note on the amount of reimbursements expected. Currently, the town is still awaiting $2.2M
from the CHS roof project. Unfortunately, there have been no further updates from the state on the
reimbursement status, even though it was submitted April 8th. Additionally, there is $3M from the bond that is
the 5% holdback from the HVAC, which won't be released until the project is audited. Thomas requested that
Trahan ask the BOE the next steps they are planning to take for the roof reimbursement.
4. Coventry/Board of Education Health Insurance MOA and Benefit Funding Methodologies:
Gallagher shared that attached to the agenda are various versions of the health insurance MOA with the BOE
and the town.
Thomas noted that the town and BOE don't even need to have an MOA, but it was stressed that it is in the best
interest to have one, as Trahan explained that she is unsure how things would move forward without one.

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Trahan discussed changes that were made which are not good for self-funded insurance, and she has issues with
the changes. However, she did share that the BOE and the town were in agreement on most things. She
highlighted the following:
 Historically, the fund has been funded on both sides by the town and BOE based on what they budget.
o To do so, the census is evaluated at the time of renewing the contract, and then the rate is calculated
based on expected claims determined by the consultants.
o The town then builds the budget back with the help of the consultants to set a per employee premium or
plan.
 In the past, both sides have deposited into the fund based on the budget number of expected claims and
coverage.
 The BOE has changed the MOA to pay into the fund based on who they have on the insurance plan each
month.
o Trahan explained some places do this, but it is hard with a school system as during summer months
contributions will be limited from both employees and employer.
o This is a large issue for a new insurance plan as there is no built-up reserves to start with.
o Additionally, the premium is the same for everyone regardless of their amount of claims.
o Even if a person is not taking the insurance, the employer is expected to contribute to the health
insurance account to ensure there is enough to cover all claims. Should this result in a large excess in
reserves, the premiums can be readjusted for all employees. Premiums are reviewed on an annual basis.
 Gallagher shared concerns that the BOE wants to make contributions based on claims experience rather than
treating it like a pool and dividing the cost based on census.
o She explained that she understands the BOE would want to do it this way based on a younger work
force, that typically results in fewer claims.
 Trahan explained that her understanding is that it was always supposed to be a pool. She reminded that the
town’s side is so small, paying for self-funded insurance on their own would be insanely expensive and cost
the taxpayers a lot of money. Additionally, combining the entities into 1 self-funded insurance pool spreads
the risk over a larger group of people.
 Unfortunately, there is no original agreement to determine how the insurance plan was supposed to be set up
from the very beginning.
 Gallagher stressed that 1 entity cannot unilaterally make the determination on how to change the accounting
for shared resources.
 Additionally, she explained it does not matter what was done in the past; the 2 entities need to come to an
agreement moving forward. If the 2 entities cannot come to an agreement, Gallagher believes that if legally
challenged, the interpretation of a pool would be in the town’s favor.
 Trahan noted that the Bond rating agencies really liked the town’s draft version of the MOA.
Thomas questioned why Trahan struck the last sentence under #5. Trahan explained that based on past
discussions, she thought it was agreed that it wasn't necessary based on the make-up of committee members.
Thomas explained that there will be an expectation that a report from the Finance Chair about the status of the
health insurance fund be an ongoing agenda item. Gallagher shared that the Finance Chair should be prepared to
give a quarterly report.
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Blanchard questioned the new number 6, and how it states that employees will have rates based on their
coverage, and then further down it states the BOE and Town will calculate employee cost share based on union
contracts. Gallagher shared she expects that the town and BOE to create a total premium amount that will be
equally applied to both sides based upon those who choose single, 2-person, and family plans. However, the
union contract will outline which percentage is contributed by the employee and what is contributed by the
employer. Their percentages can also fluctuate year to year based on contract negotiations. Larson asked about
non-union employees, which Thomas clarified they would need to negotiate directly with the Town Manager.
Blanchard asked who the third-party administrator is listed under Section 6, item b. Trahan explained that Cigna
is both the carrier and administrator. The current consultant is USI.
Blanchard felt the 2nd sentence in the newly numbered 11 should be clarified to state that the terminating party
is responsible for "their share of administration costs and claims prior to termination", not "all administration
costs and claims...". Trahan suggested changing it to read "the administration costs and claims...".
Thomas shared that the next step is to send this MOA to the BOE ahead of time and discuss it at the next Joint
Fiscal meeting.
5. Schedule of Future Joint Finance Committee/Fiscal Committee meetings:
The Finance Committee discussed the following tentative schedule:
 Thursday, September 10th at 5:30 PM-Hosted by BOE
 Monday, November 9th at 6:00 PM-Hosted by Town Council Finance Committee
 Thursday, January 14th at 5:30 PM-Hosted by the BOE
The next meeting after January would take place in March. Since that is budget season, Gallagher suggested
holding off on scheduling a meeting date.
6. Impact of Federal government funding cuts on State and Local Government:
Thomas shared that the next thing expected to be impacted is Head Start, but it is unknown if that will impact
the preschool.
7. Update on State Legislative Impacts on Municipalities:
Thomas shared that there was approximately $10,000 in damages done at the Nathan Hale Homestead due to
recent theft and vandalism. Gov. Lamont quickly responded with a press release for state agencies to identify
funds to help support repairs at the Homestead. Thomas continued that there has been an outpouring of support.
There was a strong sentiment that this was a terrible thing to happen to the home of our state hero during our
nation's 250th birthday.
Another state impact that will impact the town is that minimum wage went up again and will be in effect
January 1. Even though this is a predictable impact, it results in situations that the town has been trying to
rectify. The town will need to make sure that the higher-level staff have salaries comparative to people they
supervise and represent the difference in the level of responsibilities and qualifications.
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Thomas also shared that she received an update from CCM on the progress of the Citizens Assembly on
Funding Local Public Services, which she will distribute to the whole Council. She emphasized that there was a
lot of engagement and commitment from the assembly members. They have a deadline of September to give
their recommendations, but it is expected they will ask for an extension. Thomas hopes it will lead to better
funding of the schools.
8. Finance Office Staffing Needs:
Trahan stated that the Finance Office is busy, but they are doing OK. Gallagher suggested leaving this on the
agenda for one more month before removing it. However, she would like it to be added back in February to do a
check in prior to audit and budget season.
9. Adjournment:
Larson motioned to adjourn at 8:45 PM, Blanchard seconds. The meeting adjourned by unanimous vote at 8:45
PM.
Submitted by,

Nicole Archambault
Nicole Archambault
Finance Committee Minutes Clerk

PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not official until approved by the Finance Committee at the next
Finance Committee Meeting. Please see the next Finance Committee meeting minutes for approval or
changes to these minutes.

Superintendent’s ‘Transfers’ Letter to Council (6/26/26):

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8

To:
From:
Date:
Ref:

Town Council
James Drumm, Town Manager
September 4, 2026
Project/Issue Updates

There are few changes to update Council on regarding our projects and community issues. As usual,
underlined sentences within this memo indicate more recent updates.
Charter Revision Commission: The Town Council appointed the members of the Charter Revision
Commission (CRC) on September 2, 2025. The Council appointed Michael Petro as the Chair on
September 15th. The first meeting of the CRC was on Monday October 1st. They selected Justin Murphy
as the Vice Chair and Monica Gallegos Ramirez as the Secretary. They set their meeting schedule as the
first Wednesday and the third Thursday of the month, starting on November 20th. At their meeting on
October 23rd, the CRC was briefed by Attorney Rich Roberts (Halloran and Sage: Town Attorney’s Office)
on the Charter Revision process as established within State Statutes. They were also briefed on State
regulations related to public meetings, public records and the FOIA. The process calls for two public
hearings, one before the CRC was able to review and deliberate on sections of the Charter, and the
second when they have a draft of their recommended Charter amendments. The first Public Hearing
was held on November 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Town Hall Annex. There were a few suggestions by
members of public, all of which were considered. The second one was held on April 23, 2026, at 6:30
PM at CHS Veteran’s Auditorium. The CRC made a presentation and accepted public comments. After
the Hearing they discussed the comments received. The CRC has completed their report and submitted
it to the Town Clerk on May 14th within the deadline required by State Statutes. They presented their
recommendations to the Town Council on May 18th. Town Council completed their review on July 1,
2026, and submitted their recommendations to the CRC. The CRC reviewed those recommendations
and sent their final proposed amendments back to Town Council for review and consideration for
placement on the ballot. The Town Council reviewed and approved the CRC’s final proposed
amendments on August 3,2026. The Town Council approved Resolution 2026-10, which authorized
putting two questions about the proposed Charter amendments on the November 3, 2026 general
election ballot for voter consideration. Early voting will begin on October 19th.
Committee/Commission and ad hoc Committee Review: Upon coming on board as Town Manager, I
had the need to review some of the Ordinances and Charges of our various committees. In that limited
review I found that some committees were not in compliance with their charge. The Town has
numerous standing committees that cover many facets of municipal government and community
interests and issues. The Town Council expressed that Committee charges and ordinances need to be
reviewed and updated. There may be committees with similar overlapping charges; there may be
committees that are not in compliance with their charges; there may be committees that may need
their charges updated; and there may be committees that need to be discharged as they are no longer

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active or required. I have planned to present my findings to the Town Council Steering Committee in
groupings for review and possible recommendations. Staff have recommended to the Steering
Committee that the Human Services Advisory Committee be discharged. They have not had a meeting
since 2022. Additionally, the formation of a Youth Services Advisory Board was recommended so to
meet the requirements of an annual youth services grant. Recommendations from the Steering
Committee will be coming forward to the Town Council at the September 21st Town Council meeting
Youth Services Coordinator vacancy: The vacant position has been frozen until December due to budget
cuts.
WPCA Operator I: The Town has put this position on hold to re-evaluate the staffing needed. We are
currently considering hiring an Assistant WPCA Operator (lower pay grade) as an entry level position.
Police CAD Software: CPD is transitioning to the NexGen CAD software. September 9th will be the day
we close out the antiquated software. NexGen is used by almost every Police Department is CT and it
has been updated to allow for automatic reporting of Department data. If you recall our old software
vendor wanted $30,000 to make this adjustment. This was a purchase that the Town Council approved
with CIP funding in FY26 ($30,000), additional funds from the 1 ½% Fund in FY26 ($45,000), and with the
final payment coming from this year’s CIP ($24,164). The total amount of the software purchase was
$99,164.
Materials Management Infrastructure (MMI) grant: The CT Department of Energy and Environmental
Protection (DEEP) has awarded the MMI grant to the Town to construct a food waste/leaf composting
facility at DPW. Towns awarded this grant are finding that there is extensive permitting being required
before they can move forward. The DEEP is currently reviewing the Town’s permit application. Tree
removal will begin upon approval of the permit. Construction is estimated to occur in fall of 2026. The
CT DEEP has delayed ours and many of these MMI grant projects with intense permitting reviews. It is
uncertain when permitting will be completed. This program will also include the purchase of countertop collection containers. The containers have arrived and are being stored at DPW to distribute at the
launch of the food waste composting site, hopefully next fall. The total amount of the grant is $202, 895.
The Town Council authorized up to $5,000 in NIPS funding for the containers.
Nip Money Recycling Projects: The State passed the “Nickel for Nips” bottle program in 2021 after
having had many complaints about littering, especially nip bottles, along Connecticut roadways. The
funds must be used for recycling, litter prevention and related activities. The Town receives
approximately $20,000 annually. So far this year the Town has received $19,000. We currently have a
balance of $90,808. On November 3, 20025, the Town Council voted to allocate funds to several
qualified initiatives:
1) A waste oil container that will provide a clean and environmentally safe way to collect waste
oil. This initiative includes funding a pad and a shed to contain the tank, which is planned to be placed at
the Transfer Station. Amount approved is up to $22,000. The shed and container have been delivered
and will be installed next month.
2) The Town has seen an increase in the amount of waste oil and this expense is rising. This
initiative will cover these disposal costs. Amount approved is up to $3,000 per year for disposal of oil
not recycled. This will be reviewed annually. Was not needed in FY25/26 as we found partners to take
our waste oil at no cost. This will be reevaluated and considered again by Town Council in FY26/27.
3) A MetroSTOR container is planned to be placed at the Transfer Station and will limit odor and
animal intrusion. This initiative will improve the voluntary public food waste collection that is planned to

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begin in late fall 2026. Amount approved is up to up to $3,500. The container has arrived and will be
installed at the waste compost site after permitting and construction is complete.
4) Storm drain markers educate/warn the public on that dumping in the drain will impact lake
water quality and the environment. These would only be placed on drains in the lake watershed.
Amount approved is up to up to $1,000. The storm drain markers have arrived and will be installed in
the summer as time permits.
5) An antifreeze containment unit will cover any overflow or leakage from the two barrels used
to store the liquid waste. Amount approved is up to $2,000. No action has been taken on this project
yet. Evaluation is being done on the size unit and placement of unit at DPW.
6) Additional hours being allocated to part-time staff (Transfer Station Operators) would be used
to monitor recycling in the field and to provide public education so to reduce recycling contamination.
Amount approved is up to $8,000 per year. This will be reviewed annually. Due to winter weather and
staff shortage, this was not implemented in FY25/26. It will be reviewed and considered again by Town
Council in FY26/27.
The Public Works Department is currently coordinating the implementation of these initiatives. Further
updates on these initiatives will be reported as they progress.
Coventry Village Water Tower Project: The Town was notified last year by Congressman Courtney that
we have received a Congressional Directed Spending (CDS) grant of $1 million toward the construction
of an elevated water tower to strengthen and improve the village water system. The water tower would
provide additional pressure and steady volume of water for the system. This is especially important for
fire suppression systems that are needed for new commercial development and historic mill redevelopment in Coventry Village. This project could also improve the fire suppression systems at the
high school, the middle school, and GHR. The total project was estimated to be $2.5 million. The
request made by the Town was for $1.875 million dollars. The grant requires at least a 25% match. The
grant will be administered starting in 2025-26 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural
Development Program. The Town coordinated with Connecticut Water Company on possible locations.
Connecticut Water conducted a review and made recommendations for the siting of the Tower. They
presented the findings of the review to the Finance Committee on October 30th. Town Engineer Todd
Penney presented their recommendations to Town Council on November 3, 2025. As the Water Tower
Project was found to best be sited on the Stonehouse Road property, the Town Council approved the
use of the unspent preliminary engineering funds to be used to evaluate that site. The Town Engineer
has prepared an RFP for preliminary engineering and will be putting this out in October. The Town staff
have applied for State bonding funds to cover the full cost of the Project, which is now estimated to be
$3 million. Local businesses, including Teleflex, have shown interest in the extra fire protection the
water tower would provide.
Plains Road/Salt Impacted Potable Wells: This water extension project involves much coordination with
the Connecticut Water Company to complete. They have agreed to connect a newly constructed water
line to their existing system in the Nathan Hale Drive area. The Town currently has State grant funding
(EPA Funding to CT) pledged for approval for 50%. CT Department of Health (DPH) informed us that we
have secured a Small Disadvantaged Communities (SDC) grant from the U.S. EPA in the amount of
$787,000 to add on top of the approximate 50% subsidy. This will reduce the Town’s expenses to less
than 25% of the total project cost. The construction cost is estimated to be $2.6 million. The survey
work is complete. Our contract engineer, GZA Geoenvironmental, Inc., has completed the engineering
and has completed permitting. The project was presented to the Town Council at the January 21,
2025 Town Council meeting. The Town Council determined at that meeting that this project should be

3

placed on a future public referendum requesting authorization for debt to construct the improvements.
At the February 18, 2025 meeting the Town Council authorized funding for permitting that would allow
the installation of a water line along the South Street extension right of way. Application has been made
for SRF grant/loan funds so that funding may be designated by the State. The Town has since received a
DPH notice of funding for the project. This would include additional funding for possible project
contingency needs. The funds are now pledged but will be obligated by DPH after completion and
execution of the loan documents. The project was put out to bid last month. Eleven bids were received
on May 22nd. Several qualified companies in Connecticut and Massachusetts put in a proposal. VMS
Construction of Vernon, CT was the apparent low bidder at $1,383,579.00 . Proposals are being
reviewed. Bids received can be viewed at this link: https://www.coventryct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10681/Plains-Road-bid-opening-RESULTS?bidId=151 . The bids
have been determined to be fully qualified, and have this week been forwarded to the CT DPH for their
review and acceptance. DPH has approved the bids and authorized the Town to award the contract.
We have begun discussions on the documents needed and the process for financing with grants and
50% forgivable low interest loans. The Town advertised for proposals and interviewed two engineering
firms (SLR and GM2) for consideration of providing construction inspection services. SLR Consulting was
ranked highest due to their extensive utility experience and were also approved by DPH. Town
Engineer Todd Penney and I held a meeting on September 2, 2026 with the impacted residents to discuss
construction, the contractor’s schedule, connection issues, well abandonment, and their concerns about
the damage the salt (sodium chloride) has done to their homes and appliances. The project is scheduled
to start construction on September 9th with a substantial completion date of January 1, 2027.
Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) - Plant upgrade vs. Willimantic Wastewater Treatment
Plant (WWTP) connection: The engineers, Tighe & Bond, completed their review of the costs to connect
our wastewater system to the Willimantic WWTP in 2024. The study shows that the connection to the
treatment plant in Willimantic will be nearly the same cost as the upgrade to the existing Coventry
WWTP. However, with that reported, it is likely that the Town would be eligible for more grant funding
for the Coventry WWTP upgrade than a line extension to the Willimantic WWTP. The study was
forwarded to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for their review and
comment. Town staff, our engineering consultants and the WPCA did meet with DEEP representatives
in June 2024. DEEP indicated that the WPCA will need to conduct an environmental impact study
regarding the preferred option of upgrading the wastewater treatment plant. The Town must take
action one way or the other as the Coventry WWTP does not meet current State wastewater treatment
standards. The WPCA selected an independent firm to conduct the evaluation of the upgrade of the
Wastewater Treatment Plant project under the requirements of the Connecticut Environmental
Protection Act (CEPA). Request for Qualifications (RFQs) were received December 19, 2024. Only one
was received by SLR International Corporation of New Haven, CT. An interview was held in March 2025.
The WPCA has contracted for services for the CEPA project. This study is expected to take one year to
complete. The contractor has lost staff and was delayed in their project start time. It is expected to be
completed by late fall 2026. DEEP will then review the study and provide comments by April of 2027.
After taking the DEEP comments into consideration, the Town will be able to move towards engineering
and design.
Bolton/Coventry Sewer Extension: The Town has planned for a sewer line extension project from the
existing sewer service in the Town of Bolton eastward along US Route 44 into the town of Coventry.
This was planned in the expectation that the Town may attract additional commercial growth along that
corridor, which currently has some commercial development. Town staff negotiated with the Bolton
Lakes Water Pollution Control Authority on the connection fees to their utility system. The BLWPCA and

4

the Town have not come to an agreement on connection fees. The costs presented have been
excessive. Also, after the town approves the connection fees, a separate agreement will be required to
address maintenance requirements which include annual use fees, billing, permitting, flows, etc. The
Town has also been in communication with the United States EPA about the grant contract. The project
is partially funded through the passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Community
Projects grants. Additional funding will be required possibly through bonding and sewer connection
assessments. Without additional funding, this project cannot move ahead. We will continue to explore
our options for additional funding for this project. We have learned that this money, if not used for the
Bolton project, could possibly be re-directed to another sewer project such as the WWTP. We plan to
evaluate return of investment for this project with the assistance of the Connecticut Municipal
Development Authority (CMDA), once they begin engaging our community this fall.
Coventry Lake/Lake Wangumbaug Hydrilla Control Project: The Town has received the CT Department
of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) grant for the 2026
fluoridone treatments. The Town will receive $75,000. Matching funds and funds for monitoring the
lake have been proposed in the FY2026-27 Budget. Summer 2026 marks the third year of the three-year
Treatment Plan that has been recommended by our consultants (Northeast Aquatic Research) in 2023.
The Treatments for 2026 have occurred on July 20th and August 24th and will again on September 21st .
An analysis of the effectiveness of the treatments will be done later this year by NEAR and reported to
the Coventry Lake Advisory and Monitoring Committee.
Booth and Dimock Library Historic Preservation Grant: The Town was selected to receive the $6000
grant by the State Historic Preservation Office for repairs to the historic portion of the Booth and
Dimock Library. The project specifically will make repairs to the framing and joists supporting the floors
in the reading rooms under the bookshelves. The project is estimated at $12,000 with the library
providing the State grant match from their endowment fund. Proulx Building and Remodeling LLC of
Stafford Springs has been contracted to complete the work. Construction will being the week of
September 14th and be completed by the 18th
Booth and Dimock Library Interior Wall repair: Over the winter a drain spout clogged and froze and
caused water damage in the building behind the interior walls. Paul Davis Restoration has done a nice
job making repairs this week. There was concern that there would be extensive mold in the walls, and
actually upon opening it up, very little was found. It was all remediated.
Patriots Park Improvement Project: A Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant was
awarded by the State to the Town in 2024 in the amount of $315,000 for Patriots Park improvements.
The grant project totals $350,000, including a $5,000 donation from the Coventry Lions Club and the
municipal match of $30,000. Additionally, the Town has allocated Local Capital Improvement Program
(LoCIP grant) funding (FY 23-FY26) in the amount of $93,000 and has provided in-house labor to prepare
the site and construct the wall. The project involves improvements to the pavilion, playground
replacement, fencing and geese deterrent measures. In late 2024 and early 2025, the Town conducted a
master plan process for the park. Using that design, the Town Engineer has prepared a plan for the new
playground area. The Town Crew has nearly completed constructing the wall and playscape pad,
providing two level play areas for equipment installations. Kompan Inc. has been awarded the contract
to construct the playscape in the park for $296,033. The installation work will start and end in
September. As stated above, part of this STEAP grant project was the geese deterrent/mitigation issue.
They have negatively impacted water quality for the Town’s beach operations. GZA has completed the
construction of a water circulator that is to periodically mix the water to reduce the potential growth of

5

bacteria in the swim area. In 2025, the beach was closed for over 30 days during swim season due to
high bacteria counts. Health Director Rob Miller and Dr. Bob Kortman proposed the circulator as the use
of a boat motor in the swim area improved water quality levels last summer. The new circulator was
placed in the Lake just outside of the swim area on May 20th and once power was installed it has been in
operation since June 12th. The Eastern Highland Health District has reported that the level of bacteria in
the water at Patriots’ Park Beach has significantly been lower than last year. The overall project has
been projected to be completed by early fall. As the Town has this project under construction, we are
eligible to apply for future STEAP grant funding whenever the State decides to open a new round
application for funding. The Town Council was briefed on this STEAP Grant project at their October 20,
2025, Town Council Meeting.

Nearly completed wall and playscape pad in Patriots Park

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Water Circulator installed on anchored raft adjacent to swimming area at Patriots Park Beach
Main Street/South Street Pedestrian Crossing Project: The Town was awarded a Transportation Rural
Improvement Program (TRIP) grant in 2024, which was a newly created state grant program designed to
support rural municipalities, which are often ineligible for many federal transportation programs. The
grant is $498,000. This is a 100% funded grant for construction, with engineering being the responsibility
of the Town. This project will provide crosswalks and pedestrian safety features along Main Street in the
Village and along South Street. Improvements will include signage, flashing lights and curb ramps
(sidewalk bumps) that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additional
engineering was required. Town Engineer Todd Penney expressed the need for additional funding for
consulting engineers to complete the design engineering at the March 12th Budget meeting. Engineering
for this project has been delayed due to workload of in-house engineering staff. Design is nearing
completion and it will go to bid this fall pending engineering staff capacity. The project is now planned
for construction in Spring 2027.
Main Street sidewalk project: This project is funded by a Community Connectivity grant. This project
will begin at Hemlock Point Lane and go northeasterly to Winterberry. The design had been reviewed in
2024 by CDOT for permitting and rejected. Construction plans have been amended to move retaining
walls outside of the right of way at the request of CDOT. Work involved acquiring additional easements
in 2025 for retaining walls. Easements are now complete. Engineering staff capacity has delayed this
project. The Town Engineer plans to place this project out to bid this fall. Construction is expected to be
in spring/summer 2027. Upon completion of this project the Town will be eligible to apply for another
Community Connectivity grant to extend the sidewalk further on Main Street to Lisicke Park and
additionally westward to Daly Road. This will eventually connect to planned (currently in design) future
sidewalks along Daly Road. When all is complete within the next few years, there will be sidewalks in
place that circle Coventry Lake.

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Hale Trails Project: This is a Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
grant. The project budget is $500,000 and is funded 50% State and 50% local. The Town’s match is
primarily in-kind services and in-house engineering. The project design is currently paused to evaluate
the wetland impact and possible alternative crossings on Bear Swamp Road at Rufus Creek. Staff had a
meeting with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to explain project
difficulties in working with the wetland component of the project and have found that we can phase the
project with the current award and apply for additional funding at a later cycle to address the wetland
crossing or bypass. This project has been placed on hold as additional engineering is needed to reflect
project changes.
Broad Way Culvert: This culvert has been falling since 2020, when a collapse and wash out of half the
pipe and part of the road resulted in a temporary fix involving an undersized pipe acquired during the
supply shortage of the COVID -19 pandemic. Town staff at the time attempted to get funding as this
large culvert may have been considered a bridge and eligible for Federal/State grants. All searches for
grant funding failed as the culvert is one foot shorter than the required amount of length to be classified
a “Bridge” under Federal/State grant funding regulations. In Spring of 2024 more piping failed as the
road sunk and large sink holes appeared. Again, temporary patches were made. New staff members
who had come on board searched again for grant funds, but found the same restrictions still applied
leaving no option for Federal/State grants. This past fall Town staff applied for bonding funds from the
State Bonding Commission for the replacement of the large culvert. With support of our State legislative
delegation the project has been funded by the State Bonding Commission. The Town Engineer’s
projected cost for the project is $1,095,200. The project is being funded at 2,750,000 to include a
contingency amount for unexpected costs. The CT DOT has contacted the Town. The State has indicated
that they will be administering the project and will be setting up a meeting with Town staff to discuss
the project.
Root Road-failing drainage pipe crossing: There was a sink hole that formed in the road just southwest
of the intersection with Cooper Lane about two weeks ago. DPW staff filled the hole and patched the
road. The Town Engineer and DPW staff have been monitoring the pipe. There is no expectation of an
immediate failure, but there is concern that the pipe may need to be replaced sooner than a normal
yearlong engineering/permitting process normally takes. It is possible that there could be further
sinkholes which could pose a danger to traffic. The Town has built up some funding in our LOTCIP Fund
for culvert repair and we are exploring an expedited process with Inland Wetlands and with engineering
to replace this pipe. An application will be filed this month for Inland Wetlands approval. As always,
moving this unanticipated project forward for engineering as a priority will cause another capital grant
project or projects to delay with the schedule. More information will be provided as the on-going review
of this issue moves forward.
Depot Road Bridge replacement: The Town has been awarded a $7.4 million State/Federal grant for
100% funding for this project. The State has agreed to provide engineering with one of their consulting
engineers. CHA Engineering of Rocky Hill, CT has been assigned the project by the Connecticut DOT.
Scouring tests have been completed showing that replacement is warranted. In October 2025 the State
notified the Town that they have funded design engineering so it can move forward.
Brigham Hill Bridge replacement: The Town has been awarded a $5.2 million State/Federal grant for
100% funding for this project. The State has agreed to provide engineering with one of their consulting
engineers. CHA Engineering of Rocky Hill, CT has been assigned the project by the Connecticut DOT.
Scouring tests have been completed showing that replacement is warranted. In October 2025, the State

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notified the Town that they will be designating funds for design engineering so it can then move
forward. The award of budgeted funding for this project in the CDOT Budget has not yet been
announced.
Bunker Hill Bridge Replacement (Rufus Creek): Though this project is described as a bridge, it is
described more accurately as a large culvert structure that is constructed under the roadway. The
project is in design with Nathan Jacobson Engineering. In 2025 the Town coordinated with the Town of
Andover, as they had a bridge project over the Hop River along Bunker Hill Road. The Town of Coventry
did not want to isolate the residents on this road with two construction projects active at the same time.
As Andover’s construction began in 2025, we had to delay construction of this project until summer
2026. CDOT gave the Town an extension on this grant award. The Town was awarded a $700,000 grant
for this project. This is a 50/50 State/Local funded project. The local match ($700,000) was budgeted
with existing road bond funds. In 2025 the Inland Wetlands Agency issued a permit. Trees have been
cleared to allow for construction. Bids were received on April 9th. The results of the bids are at this link
on our website: https://www.coventry-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10472/Bid-opening-resultsBunker-Hill-Road-Bridge-Replacement?bidId=147 . Dayton Construction Inc. of Watertown, CT was the
low bidder at $984,500 and they have been awarded the contract. This construction company has a
good reputation. They did the bridge/culvert replacement for the State in front of Coventry Market on
U.S. Route 44. The Contractor is on site and the road is closed and will be until the end of November
2026. The Bunker Hill Bridge Replacement Project is estimated to cost a total of $1,400,000 (including
engineering). State grant money ($700,000) funds 50% of this project. The remaining 50% ($700,000)
was approved by voters in 2023 as the Bunker Hill Bridge was one of the designated projects included in
the 2023 Road Bond which allocated a total of $4,865,000 for the designated projects.
Parker Bridge Road-Bridge (Culvert) replacement grant: In 2023 the Town applied for Federal/State
funding to replace the smaller bridge on Parker Bridge Road. It is actually a large culvert that the
adjacent creek runs through. The grant was not funded that year. Staff again applied for this funding
for the 2024 grant cycle. The Town was awarded a $714,000 grant for this project. The total project
cost is $1,428,000. This is a 50/50 State/Local funded project. The local match ($714,000) was
budgeted with the 2023 Road Bond funds. The project is now in engineering. A preliminary design plan
is complete. Easements are being sought from adjacent property owners now. The CT Fisheries
conducted a study in June to see if fish were present that may have been prevented from travelling
through the current culvert and the proposed new one as it was designed. Their conclusion was no fish
were present and the Town could proceed with our current design. If they had been found in the study,
alterations to the plans would have been required which would have increased the construction costs.
The Town has scheduled an advertised public involvement meeting on September 17, 2026 at 7:00 PM
in the Town Hall Annex for the Parker Bridge Road project. This will allow staff to explain the planned
improvements and to seek input on the proposed plans.
Flanders Rd/Cider Mill Bridge: The Town was awarded a federal bridge replacement grant in 2025. We
have contracted and obligated these Federal grant funds. The State has changed the process and time
frame of this project. They were hoping to complete multiple bridges with five towns with one
design/contactor. That changed in late 2025. The State will directly contract engineering and then
directly hire a separate contractor. The Towns of Mansfield and Coventry will be included in the design
phase and will coordinate efforts. A project meeting was held with the project engineers and the Town
of Mansfield on December 11, 2025. The project is now planned to begin with a public meeting in late
2026; followed by design completion in 2028; and then construction to be completed by December 2030

9

(four years later than first suggested by CDOT). The estimated cost of the project is $7,070, 000. The
State/Federal grant award is to be 100% funded.
South Street/Swamp Road Project: This is a major project that will improve safety on these roads and
will raise the elevation of the intersection of South Street and Swamp Road. Preliminary plans are
complete. This project was reviewed by the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) in fall of
2022. The comments caused minor adjustments to be made to the preliminary plans. The revised plans
were presented at the public involvement meeting that was held on October 24, 2023. It was well
attended by the residents of the area. Public involvement meetings are required by the Connecticut
Department of Transportation (DOT) for funding from the Local Transportation Capital Improvement
Program (LOTCIP). Good feedback from residents/property owners was received by staff and the
project engineers. In late 2024, design plans were amended further to include a gap area along South
Street and the State awarded an additional $442,800 to cover this area. The design amendments did
not significantly delay the project’s engineering; however, this addition required the need to acquire
multiple new easements. The focus now is on easement acquisitions from property owners. The Town
Council has approved additional funding to complete this process in a timely manner. Bidding for this
project will be in fall of 2026. Construction is now planned to begin in spring of 2027.
Daly Road Construction Project: This is a road and sidewalk construction project from Rt. 31 to South
Street. Two Local Option Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) grants have been
approved and have been combined into one project. The project is estimated to cost $3,000,000. Grant
funding for construction is 100%. The project will modify curves and increase pedestrian safety.
Funding for design will be funded by the Town. Barton and Loguidice of Glastonbury is conducting
engineering on this project. The preliminary design has been reviewed by CRCOG and CDOT. Now that
all preliminary plans have been approved, design engineering is the next step. This funding is the match
requirement from the Town. There are currently insufficient funds in CNREF. This project is now
paused. The Town will need to consider possible sources to fund this next step of this project. This
expense, estimated to cost about $450,000, could be funded in a potential Road Bond that Town
Council has discussed for later in 2026.
Road resurfacing/drainage Improvements: The Town has reviewed road conditions for this year’s
summer paving. Leslie Lane is currently under construction with new drainage and will see new paving
later in September. Avery Shores will be next to see drainage improvements this fall. With less funds
budgeted for roads this current fiscal year, our funding will not go too far with the summer paving
projects. The future of most road paving may have to be borrowing money through a road bond. The
Town is currently collecting data on road conditions townwide.

10

Annual
State of the
Lake Forum
7 PM Tuesday
September 22, 2026
Mill Brook Place
1267 Main Street
Coventry, CT
Sponsored by:
The Town of Coventry and
Coventry Lake Advisory & Monitoring Committee

Learn about the current
Health of Coventry Lake

Presentation by: GZA GeoEnvironmental

Learn how boat launch monitors are
helping to prevent the spread of invasive
species and keep boaters safe.
Presentation by: CT DEEP Boating Division

8.A.

26/27-11: Consideration/possible action: Discharge of Human Services Advisory
Committee

Town Council Action Requested: Town Council will consider discharging the Human Services
Advisory Committee. The Committee has become inactive and has not had a meeting since
2022. One key function of the Committee was acting also as the Youth Services Advisory
Board, which is still needed and so a separate Youth Services Advisory Board with specific
membership requirements is being separately proposed.
Purpose:
The Human Services Advisory Committee is no longer needed due to the growth of the Town
and the hiring of professional staff in this field. However, a Youth Services Advisory Board is
needed as this is tied to State funding. Though the discharge of the HSAC is recommended,
the creation of a YSAB has been separately proposed so not to put State funding in jeopardy.
History: The HSAC was originally established in 1978 to provide recommendations and
support to Human Services staff at a time when the town did not employ a Human Services
Administrator. This Committee essentially managed the Human Services operations for the
Town. As the Town has grown and has employed a professional Human Services
Administrator, the need for the HSAC no longer remains. In 2021 the HSAC was merged with
the Youth Services Advisory Board. Afterward the merged Committee quickly became inactive.
Facts about the issue: NA
Funding Information: NA
Town Manager Comments: This reorganization of the HSAC to be replaced by the YSAB will
bring greater assistance and interested members to Youth Services and it will reflect the level of
professionalism now in department management.
Town Manager’s Recommendation: 1) Motion to Discharge the Human Services Advisory

Committee.

To: Coventry Town Council and James Drumm, Town Manager
From: Madison Baranoski, Human Services Administrator
Re: Proposed Disbanding of the Human Services Advisory Committee and Establishment of a
Youth Services Advisory Board
Date: July 16, 2026

This memo serves as a follow up to discussion with the Town Manager upon my appointment as
the Human Services Administrator about the Human Services Advisory Committee (HSAC).
Background: The HSAC was originally established in 1978 to provide recommendations and
support to Human Services staff at a time when the town did not employ a Human Services
Administrator. While the exact establishment date of the Youth Services Advisory Board
(YSAB) is unclear, the State of Connecticut has required Youth Service Bureaus to maintain an
active advisory board to receive state funding since at least 1978.
In 2018 and 2021, respectively, the YSAB and HSAC were charged with monitoring and
assessing the effectiveness of local programs. To streamline municipal efforts, the two groups
were merged in 2021 under a waiver through the Department of Children and Families (DCF).
However, the merged group has not met since 2022.
I recommend disbanding the Human Services Advisory Committee and establishing a Youth
Services Advisory Board to reduce duplicated efforts in monitoring general Human Services
programs which are now directly managed and evaluated by department staff, while ensuring
direct compliance with state regulation Sec. 10-19m-2 and retaining our Youth Service Bureau
cost-sharing grant through DCF.

8.B.

26/27-12: Consideration/possible action: Establishment of Youth Services
Advisory Board

Town Council Action Requested: Town Council will consider approving Resolution 2026-11
creating a stand-alone Youth Services Advisory Board to provide input to youth services. This
Board’s function currently exist within a combined Human Services Advisory Committee. which
has become inactive.
Purpose: The State of Connecticut requires that municipalities have a Youth Services Advisory
Board in order to receive State funding for Youth Services. The Board is to advise on use of the
grant funds and on programming. There are certain qualifications/backgrounds required for the
Board seats per State Statute. This has made a combined YSAB/HSAC Committee difficult to
function as the interests of Committee members were not necessarily youth focused. The
creation of the new Board would be required to maintain State grant funding, if the HSAC is
discharged.
History: The YSAB function at the municipal level was authorized in 1975 by act of the General
Assembly (PA 487-75). In 1978, the Youth Services Board Grant became available, which then
required that municipalities receiving funding must have an active YSAB. The Town did have a
separate YSAB until 2021 when the Youth Services Advisory Board was merged into the
Human Services Advisory Committee. Afterward, it has been reported that members lost
interest and it then quickly became inactive.
Facts about the issue: NA
Funding Information: The State Youth Services Board Grant brings in about $26,000 each
year to the Town. Approximately $14,000 of that funding can be used toward the Youth Services
Coordinator salary.
Town Manager Comments: This reorganization of the HSAC to be replaced by the YSAB will
bring greater assistance and interested members to Youth Services and it will reflect the level of
professionalism with staff.
Town Manager’s Recommendation: 1) Motion to approve Resolution 2026-11, A
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF COVENTRY CONNECTICUT,
ESTABLISHING A “YOUTH SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD”; ESTABLISHING PURPOSE,
CHARGE, MEMBERSHIP, REPRESENTATION, OFFICERS; MEETINGS; REPORTS; STAFF;
MINUTES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Resolution 2026-11
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF COVENTRY
CONNECTICUT, ESTABLISHING A “YOUTH SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD”;
ESTABLISHING PURPOSE, CHARGE, MEMBERSHIP, REPRESENTATION,
OFFICERS; MEETINGS; REPORTS; STAFF; MINUTES; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Town of Coventry previously merged its Youth Services and Human Services
committees in 2021; and
WHEREAS, state regulations (Sec. 10-19m-2) mandate that any municipality operating a Youth
Service Bureau (YSB) and receiving state cost-sharing grants must maintain an active Youth
Services Advisory Board (YSAB); and
WHEREAS, the Town Council wishes to promote efficiency and sound governance by
restructuring or consolidating Town committees where appropriate;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
COVENTRY, CONNECTICUT THAT:
SECTION ONE: Establishment; purpose; charge; reports
a) There is hereby created a Youth Services Advisory Board. The purpose of this committee
is to advise and make recommendations on overall policy and program direction for the
Coventry Youth Service Bureau. Responsibilities include:
a. The Board shall facilitate ongoing research regarding needs of Coventry youth
and identifying service gaps.
b. The Board shall provide community outreach and education to promote public
knowledge and understanding of youth needs under the oversight of the Human
Services Administrator and Youth Services Coordinator.
b) The Board shall conduct its business with due regard to all laws and regulations
governing the actions of municipal agencies, including those requirements of the
Freedom of Information Act and procedures established by the State of Connecticut for
Youth Service Bureaus.
SECTION TWO: Members; term; representation; officers; meetings
This Board shall have no less than seven (7) members, who shall be recommended by the Town
Council Steering Committee. The Council shall hear the recommendations of the Steering
Committee and appoint the committee membership. Appointments shall be for three (3) years.
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Two members shall be under twenty-one (21) years of age at the time of appointment
One member shall be a representative of the school system

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One member shall be a representative of the police department
One member shall be a representative of a private youth serving agency
o The youth and police representatives may be liaison, non-voting members of the
Board if such representatives are not electors in the Town. At least five (5)
members shall be voting members.
At least one third of the total membership shall be individuals who are interested in youth
services and who receive less than 50% of their income delivering services to youth.
The Board shall choose a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson, and a Secretary from its
membership to serve a one-year term in their officer role, with the option for renewal.
The Board shall also establish a calendar of quarterly meetings.

SECTION THREE: Staff; minutes
The Human Services Administrator and Youth Services Coordinator shall serve as staff to the
Board. Minutes will be completed by Town Staff and placed in record in compliance with State
Law.
SECTION FOUR: Effective Date
Effective Date: Resolution 2026-11 shall become effective upon passage.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Town Council of the Town of Coventry, Connecticut on this
8th day of September 2026.

TOWN OF COVENTRY
TOWN COUNCIL

__________________________________
Lisa Thomas, Chairperson

Attest:

__________________________________
Lori Tollmann, Town Clerk

8.C.

26/27-13: Consideration/possible action: Modifications to job description, WPCA
Assistant Operator

Town Council Action Requested: Town Council shall consider amending the WPCA Assistant
Operator job description to add responsibilities and to update the duties now expected of this
wastewater entry level position.
Purpose: Upon the recent resignation of WPCA Operator 1 Charlie Grossmann the Town
attempted to recruit a WPCA Operator 1, but was unsuccessful. The Water Pollution Control
Authority staff operate as a division of the Public Works Department. Public Works Director Bill
Watkins is now requesting that the Town recruit a replacement at the entry level position of
WPCA Assistant Operator. The Assistant Operator job description was out of date as it had
been some time since we filed this entry level WPCA position. Additionally, the position needed
to have more skilled responsibilities added as it is only one of two positions assigned to the
WPCA.
History: This position is the entry level position in a career ladder that was approved in 2025.
The first level is WPCA Assistant Operator (without a State license); WPCA Operator 1 (with
Operator 1 License), and then WPCA Operator 2 (with WPCA Operator 2 License). Initially, the
Assistant Operator did not need to have skills beyond a general laborer. The additional
technical responsibilities previously were not included in the job description as one of our former
Public works Directors held a State Wastewater Licenses as well and could assist. Several
years ago, this allowed the current Sr. WWTP Operator (Mike Rueff) time to reach his level of
training and experience prior to being licensed. Later having the Sr. Operator licensed allowed
the former Assistant Operator (Charlie Grossmann) time to get licensed and promoted to
Operator 1. The State requires at least one licensed Operator, but prefers two to cover
absences and to ensure we meet permit requirements.
Facts about the issue: The current career ladder within the DPW union collective barging
agreement encourages that the Assistant Operator seek a State License and will allow for self
promotion upon receiving the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator 1 License along with
years of experience. Once the upgrade to the Coventry Wastewater Treatment Plant is
completed in the next few years, the permit will require we have two licensed operators due to
the higher level of treatment required.
Funding Information: Due to adding more skilled responsibilities to this position, negotiations
with the union resulted in an agreement to increase the paygrade by one level. This would
increase the pay by approximately $1.00 per hour.
Steering Committee Recommendation: The Steering Committee at their August 24th meeting
voted to recommend the approval of the amended WPCA Assistant Operator job description.
Town Manager Comments: none.
Town Manager’s Recommendation: 1) Move to approve the WPCA Assistant Operator

job description as presented.

Town of Coventry, CT Job Description
Position: WPCA Assistant Operator
Department: Public Works Department
Position Purpose: Performs a variety of work assisting in Wastewater Treatment Plant and
Sewer Collection System Operations; May be assigned to any division on a temporary basis to
meet operational needs of Public Works Department. This position is required to work during
winter storm and emergency operations.
Supervision:
 Received:
o Works under direct and indirect supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant
Operator, Maintainer 4/Crew Leaders, and Public Works Director.
 Exercised:
o May supervise volunteers or seasonal laborers on specific projects. May supervise
other Public Works staff who are assigned to assist with WPCA duties.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 Assists the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Chief Operator in daily operation of
the WWTP and Wastewater Collection System
 Independently operates the WWTP, maintains the Wastewater Collection System and
responds to emergency call-outs in the absence of the Chief Operator
 Receives automated alarm notifications from the WWTP and pump stations directly and
evaluates need to respond immediately. Calls Maintainer 4/Crew Leader to arrange for
additional qualified public works employee assistance if needed
 Receives differential in accordance with section 6.1 of the collective bargaining
agreement
 Performs general labor, maintenance, and laboratory testing
 Collects wastewater grab and composite samples, performs laboratory tests, submits
samples to lab for analysis, interprets results, and enters data in MS Excel
 Calibrates, operates, and repairs pH meters, dissolved oxygen (DO) meters, and portable
& fixed gas meters
 Cleans treatment plant gravel trap, barrack, influent channel and clarifiers; De-rags,
maintains and clears debris from various pumps; Inspects all plant equipment for signs of
malfunction
 Takes instrument readings, accurately records data, and maintains file organization
 Performs all equipment preventative maintenance not covered by service contracts such
as oil changes, greasing, air filter changes, belt changes, etc. to electric motors,
compressors, blowers, gear drives, gas pumps, lawn tractor, etc.
 Operates dosing equipment and adds relevant chemicals for boiler treatment
 Performs grounds maintenance including shoveling/plowing snow, mowing grass, line
trimming, raking/blowing leaves, pruning trees and vines
WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

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Performs CBYDroutine cleaning such as sweeping, mopping, emptying trash,
disinfecting bathroom, sanitizing tools & surfaces
Performs sewer system cleaning operating various Jetter and vac trucks, with Town
crews or contractors
Performs grease trap inspections at all food service establishments on the sewer system
Inspects sewer construction and repairs on private property to ensure permit requirements
and codes are met
Serves as Town’s representative and inspector on major rehab and repair projects to
sewer mains
Performs Call-before-you-dig (CYBD) request mark outs for sanitary sewers, assists
property owners in locating private sewer lines
Operates a variety of underground locating devices and marks the locations of buried
electrical wires, sewer lines, and storm drains
Maintains Town-owned residential grinder pumps including PM checks, electrical
checks, de-ragging impeller, removing unsuitable objects from pump chambers,
responding to alarms, using portable generator to power pumps during power outages,
and educating users as needed
Responsible for weekly checks and testing of standby generators and re-fueling when
needed
Maintains sewage pump stations, including regular site visits, logging readings, grounds
keeping, generator checks, cleaning floats and transducers, general building repairs
Performs manhole inspections with use of manual and magnetic lifting devices; Inspects
manholes and sewer mains for water infiltration
Inspects oil/water separators at Town and private buildings; Performs monthly
maintenance cleaning of the Public Works Department oil/water separator
Operates sewer inspection cameras, enters data
Performs confined space entries for inspection and maintenance of manholes and various
tanks/structures and serves as confined space attendant for contractors
Occasionally sets up road safety zones and performs traffic control
Uses computers daily for email communication, data entry, record keeping, meeting
scheduling with contractors for maintenance work, maintenance tracking, etc.
Assists public works mechanics with WPCA equipment repairs and customization
Assists public works crews with manhole repairs and construction
Coordinates manhole adjustments before and during street paving activities including pre
inspections, tracking repairs, procuring risers, scheduling delivery, unloading parts,
measuring risers, installing risers
Operates a variety of equipment listed in appendix B Maintainer II
Solicits quotes from vendors and contractors for equipment purchases and repairs up to
$20,000, schedules work/deliveries, supervises and oversees repair jobs, assists
contractors as needed
Tracks wastewater operator certification annual continuing education credits and registers
for training courses
Routinely performs tasks of maintainers of a lower classification
Assists the WWTP Operator in any other WPCA related tasks and duties as needed

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

Desired Minimum Qualifications:
 Education, Training, Experience
o A High School or Technical School Diploma or a General Educational
Development Certificate equivalent
o A valid Connecticut Driver’s License
 A Class B Commercial Driver’s License with both N (Liquid bulk/tank
cargo) endorsement and valid medical card is preferable
o Ability toMust obtain CT DEEP Class 1 Wastewater Operator Certification within
one (1) yeartwo (2) years of hiring
o CT DOT Flagger certification
o OSHA Confined Spaces Certification
o Certification as a Transfer Station Operator pursuant to section 22a-209-6 of the
Connecticut Solid Waste Management Regulations and the Regulation of
Connecticut State Agencies (RCSA)
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Knowledge, Ability
o Knowledge
 Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools, and small motorized
equipment for general maintenance, mechanical repairs, and landscaping
 Knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards, and regulations relative to
small equipment operation
 Knowledge of applicable OSHA regulations including Confined Spaces
and traffic control
 Knowledge and experience in the operation of wastewater treatment plants
and wastewater collection systems
 Knowledge of construction practices related to paving, building
construction, and underground utilities
 Knowledge of basic electrical, plumbing, and mechanical skills
o Ability
 Ability to assist with financial transactions and general record keeping
 Ability to save, organize, and retrieve computer files and login credentials
 Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions and take
written notes as needed
 Ability to concentrate on fine details with constant interruption, some
pressure and changing priorities, and return to unfinished tasks and
complete them efficiently
 Ability to learn and have basic understanding of new information,
methodologies, and techniques, and how to apply them to the department’s
goals and objectives
 Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with
employees, supervisors, other departments, officials, and the public
 Ability to deal with stressful situations
 Memory to perform multiple and diverse tasks over long periods of time
and ability to remember information that has been read, studied, or
previously learned
 Ability to plan, organize work, and make decisions

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

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Physical Demands

(The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the
essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions)

o The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; stand; walk;
and use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls
o The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel,
crouch or crawl; and talk and hear
o The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
o Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision,
peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus
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Tools and Equipment Used
o Town equipment as required to plow snow, sand/salt roadways
o Basic equipment for maintenance, grounds keeping, and cleaning
o Smartphones, printers, Windows, Microsoft Office® Suite, and other programs or
electronic devices used in the operation of the Town's sewer system

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Work Environment

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential
functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions)

o The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud
o While performing the duties of this job the employee occasionally works in
outside weather conditions including wind, dust, snow, rain, or humidity
o The employee is occasionally exposed to extreme cold or heat, or hazardous
materials
The duties listed above are intended as illustrations of the various types of work that may be
performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position
if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does
not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject
to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

Town of Coventry, CT Job Description
Position: WPCA Assistant Operator
Department: Public Works Department
Position Purpose: Performs a variety of work assisting in Wastewater Treatment Plant and
Sewer Collection System Operations; May be assigned to any division on a temporary basis to
meet operational needs of Public Works Department. This position is required to work during
winter storm and emergency operations.
Supervision:
 Received:
o Works under direct and indirect supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant
Operator, Maintainer 4/Crew Leaders, and Public Works Director.
 Exercised:
o May supervise volunteers or seasonal laborers on specific projects. May supervise
other Public Works staff who are assigned to assist with WPCA duties.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 Assists the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Chief Operator in daily operation of
the WWTP and Wastewater Collection System
 Independently operates the WWTP, maintains the Wastewater Collection System and
responds to emergency call-outs in the absence of the Chief Operator
 Receives automated alarm notifications from the WWTP and pump stations directly and
evaluates need to respond immediately. Calls Maintainer 4/Crew Leader to arrange for
additional qualified public works employee assistance if needed
 Receives differential in accordance with section 6.1 of the collective bargaining
agreement
 Performs general labor, maintenance, and laboratory testing
 Collects wastewater grab and composite samples, performs laboratory tests, submits
samples to lab for analysis, interprets results, and enters data in MS Excel
 Calibrates, operates, and repairs pH meters, dissolved oxygen (DO) meters, and portable
& fixed gas meters
 Cleans treatment plant gravel trap, barrack, influent channel and clarifiers; De-rags,
maintains and clears debris from various pumps; Inspects all plant equipment for signs of
malfunction
 Takes instrument readings, accurately records data, and maintains file organization
 Performs all equipment preventative maintenance not covered by service contracts such
as oil changes, greasing, air filter changes, belt changes, etc. to electric motors,
compressors, blowers, gear drives, gas pumps, lawn tractor, etc.
 Responsible Operates dosing equipment and adds relevant chemicals for boiler treatment
dosing equipment and chemicals

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

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Performs grounds maintenance including shoveling/plowing snow, mowing grass, line
trimming, raking/blowing leaves, pruning trees and vines
Performs routine cleaning such as sweeping, mopping, emptying trash, disinfecting
bathroom, sanitizing tools & surfaces
Performs sewer system cleaning operating various jJetter and vac trucks, with Ttown
crews or contractors
Performs grease trap inspections at all food service establishments on the sewer system
Inspects sewer construction and repairs on private property to ensure permit requirements
and codes are met
Serves as Town’s representative and inspector on major rehab and repair projects to
sewer mains
Performs Call-before-you-dig (CBYD) request mark outs for sanitary sewers, assists
property owners in locating private sewer lines
Operates a variety of underground locating devices and marks the locations of buried
electrical wires, sewer lines, and storm drains
Maintains Town-owned residential grinder pumps including PM checks, electrical
checks, de-ragging impeller, removing unsuitable objects from pump chambers,
responding to alarms, using portable generator to power pumps during power outages,
and educating users as needed
Responsible for weekly checks and testing of standby generators and re-fueling when
needed
Maintains sewage pump stations, including regular site visits, logging readings, grounds
keeping, generator checks, cleaning floats and transducers, general building repairs
Performs manhole inspections with use of manual and magnetic lifting devices; Inspects
manholes and sewer mains for water infiltration
Inspects oil/water separators at Town and private buildings; Performs monthly
maintenance cleaning of the Public Works Department oil/water separator
Operates sewer inspection cameras, enters data
Performs confined space entries for inspection and maintenance of manholes and various
tanks/structures and serves as confined space attendant for contractors
Occasionally sets up road safety zones and performs traffic control
Uses computers daily for email communication, data entry, record keeping, meeting
scheduling with contractors for maintenance work, maintenance tracking, etc.
Assists public works mechanics with WPCA equipment repairs and customization
Assists public works crews with manhole repairs and construction
Coordinates manhole adjustments before and during street paving activities including pre
inspections, tracking repairs, procuring risers, scheduling delivery, unloading parts,
measuring risers, installing risers
Operates a variety of equipment listed in appendix B Maintainer II
Solicits quotes from vendors and contractors for equipment purchases and repairs up to
$20,000, , schedules work/deliveries, supervises and oversees repair jobs, assists
contractors as needed
Tracks wastewater operator certification annual continuing education credits and registers
for training courses
Routinely performs tasks of maintainers of a lower classification

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026



Assists the WWTP Operator in any other WPCA related tasks and duties as needed

Desired Minimum Qualifications:
 Education, Training, Experience
o A High School or Technical School Diploma or a General Educational
Development Certificate equivalent
o A valid Connecticut Driver’s License
 A Class B Commercial Driver’s License with both N (Liquid bulk/tank
cargo) endorsement and valid medical card is preferable
o Must obtain CT DEEP Class 1 Wastewater Operator Certification within two (2)
years of hiring
o Certification to operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, loaders, Kubota
tractors, skid steers
o CT DOT Flagger certification
o OSHA Confined Spaces Certification
o Certification as a Transfer Station Operator pursuant to section 22a-209-6 of the
Connecticut Solid Waste Management Regulations and the Regulation of
Connecticut State Agencies (RCSA)


Knowledge, Ability
o Knowledge
 Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools, and small motorized
equipment for general maintenance, mechanical repairs, and landscaping
 Knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards, and regulations relative to
small equipment operation
 Knowledge of applicable OSHA regulations including Confined Spaces
and traffic control
 Knowledge and experience in the operation of wastewater treatment plants
and wastewater collection systems
 Knowledge of construction practices related to paving, building
construction, and underground utilities
 Knowledge of basic electrical, plumbing, and mechanical skills
o Ability
 Ability to assist with financial transactions and general record keeping
 Ability to save, organize, and retrieve computer files and login credentials
 Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions and take
written notes as needed
 Ability to concentrate on fine details with constant interruption, some
pressure and changing priorities, and return to unfinished tasks and
complete them efficiently
 Ability to learn and have basic understanding of new information,
methodologies, and techniques, and how to apply them to the department’s
goals and objectives
 Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with
employees, supervisors, other departments, officials, and the public
 Ability to deal with stressful situations

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026





Memory to perform multiple and diverse tasks over long periods of time
and ability to remember information that has been read, studied, or
previously learned
Ability to plan, organize work, and make decisions

Physical Demands

(The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the
essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions)

o The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; stand; walk;
and use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls
o The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel,
crouch or crawl; and talk and hear
o The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
o Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision,
peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus


Tools and Equipment Used
o Town equipment as required to plow snow, sand/salt roadways
o Basic equipment for maintenance, grounds keeping, and cleaning
o Smartphones, printers, Windows, Microsoft Office® Suite, and other programs or
electronic devices used in the operation of the Town's sewer system



Work Environment

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential
functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions)

o The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud
o While performing the duties of this job the employee occasionally works in
outside weather conditions including wind, dust, snow, rain, or humidity
o The employee is occasionally exposed to extreme cold or heat, or hazardous
materials
The duties listed above are intended as illustrations of the various types of work that may be
performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position
if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does
not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject
to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

Town of Coventry, CT Job Description
Position: WPCA Assistant Operator
Department: Public Works Department
Position Purpose: Performs a variety of work assisting in Wastewater Treatment Plant and
Sewer Collection System Operations; May be assigned to any division on a temporary basis to
meet operational needs of Public Works Department. This position is required to work during
winter storm and emergency operations.
Supervision:
 Received:
o Works under direct and indirect supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant
Operator, Maintainer 4/Crew Leaders, and Public Works Director.
 Exercised:
o May supervise volunteers or seasonal laborers on specific projects. May supervise
other Public Works staff who are assigned to assist with WPCA duties.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 Assists the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Chief Operator in daily operation of
the WWTP and Wastewater Collection System
 Independently operates the WWTP, maintains the Wastewater Collection System and
responds to emergency call-outs in the absence of the Chief Operator
 Receives automated alarm notifications from the WWTP and pump stations directly and
evaluates need to respond immediately. Calls Maintainer 4/Crew Leader to arrange for
additional qualified public works employee assistance if needed
 Receives differential in accordance with section 6.1 of the collective bargaining
agreement
 Performs general labor, maintenance, and laboratory testing
 Collects wastewater grab and composite samples, performs laboratory tests, submits
samples to lab for analysis, interprets results, and enters data in MS Excel
 Calibrates, operates, and repairs pH meters, dissolved oxygen (DO) meters, and portable
& fixed gas meters
 Cleans treatment plant gravel trap, barrack, influent channel and clarifiers; De-rags,
maintains and clears debris from various pumps; Inspects all plant equipment for signs of
malfunction
 Takes instrument readings, accurately records data, and maintains file organization
 Performs all equipment preventative maintenance not covered by service contracts such
as oil changes, greasing, air filter changes, belt changes, etc. to electric motors,
compressors, blowers, gear drives, gas pumps, lawn tractor, etc.
 Operates dosing equipment and adds relevant chemicals for boiler treatment
 Performs grounds maintenance including shoveling/plowing snow, mowing grass, line
trimming, raking/blowing leaves, pruning trees and vines
WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026





























Performs routine cleaning such as sweeping, mopping, emptying trash, disinfecting
bathroom, sanitizing tools & surfaces
Performs sewer system cleaning operating various Jetter and vac trucks, with Town
crews or contractors
Performs grease trap inspections at all food service establishments on the sewer system
Inspects sewer construction and repairs on private property to ensure permit requirements
and codes are met
Serves as Town’s representative and inspector on major rehab and repair projects to
sewer mains
Performs Call-before-you-dig (CBYD) request mark outs for sanitary sewers, assists
property owners in locating private sewer lines
Operates a variety of underground locating devices and marks the locations of buried
electrical wires, sewer lines, and storm drains
Maintains Town-owned residential grinder pumps including PM checks, electrical
checks, de-ragging impeller, removing unsuitable objects from pump chambers,
responding to alarms, using portable generator to power pumps during power outages,
and educating users as needed
Responsible for weekly checks and testing of standby generators and re-fueling when
needed
Maintains sewage pump stations, including regular site visits, logging readings, grounds
keeping, generator checks, cleaning floats and transducers, general building repairs
Performs manhole inspections with use of manual and magnetic lifting devices; Inspects
manholes and sewer mains for water infiltration
Inspects oil/water separators at Town and private buildings; Performs monthly
maintenance cleaning of the Public Works Department oil/water separator
Operates sewer inspection cameras, enters data
Performs confined space entries for inspection and maintenance of manholes and various
tanks/structures and serves as confined space attendant for contractors
Occasionally sets up road safety zones and performs traffic control
Uses computers daily for email communication, data entry, record keeping, meeting
scheduling with contractors for maintenance work, maintenance tracking, etc.
Assists public works mechanics with WPCA equipment repairs and customization
Assists public works crews with manhole repairs and construction
Coordinates manhole adjustments before and during street paving activities including pre
inspections, tracking repairs, procuring risers, scheduling delivery, unloading parts,
measuring risers, installing risers
Operates a variety of equipment listed in appendix B Maintainer II
Solicits quotes from vendors and contractors for equipment purchases and repairs up to
$20,000, schedules work/deliveries, supervises and oversees repair jobs, assists
contractors as needed
Tracks wastewater operator certification annual continuing education credits and registers
for training courses
Routinely performs tasks of maintainers of a lower classification
Assists the WWTP Operator in any other WPCA related tasks and duties as needed

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

Desired Minimum Qualifications:
 Education, Training, Experience
o A High School or Technical School Diploma or a General Educational
Development Certificate equivalent
o A valid Connecticut Driver’s License
 A Class B Commercial Driver’s License with both N (Liquid bulk/tank
cargo) endorsement and valid medical card is preferable
o Must obtain CT DEEP Class 1 Wastewater Operator Certification within two (2)
years of hiring
o CT DOT Flagger certification
o OSHA Confined Spaces Certification
o Certification as a Transfer Station Operator pursuant to section 22a-209-6 of the
Connecticut Solid Waste Management Regulations and the Regulation of
Connecticut State Agencies (RCSA)


Knowledge, Ability
o Knowledge
 Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools, and small motorized
equipment for general maintenance, mechanical repairs, and landscaping
 Knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards, and regulations relative to
small equipment operation
 Knowledge of applicable OSHA regulations including Confined Spaces
and traffic control
 Knowledge and experience in the operation of wastewater treatment plants
and wastewater collection systems
 Knowledge of construction practices related to paving, building
construction, and underground utilities
 Knowledge of basic electrical, plumbing, and mechanical skills
o Ability
 Ability to assist with financial transactions and general record keeping
 Ability to save, organize, and retrieve computer files and login credentials
 Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions and take
written notes as needed
 Ability to concentrate on fine details with constant interruption, some
pressure and changing priorities, and return to unfinished tasks and
complete them efficiently
 Ability to learn and have basic understanding of new information,
methodologies, and techniques, and how to apply them to the department’s
goals and objectives
 Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with
employees, supervisors, other departments, officials, and the public
 Ability to deal with stressful situations
 Memory to perform multiple and diverse tasks over long periods of time
and ability to remember information that has been read, studied, or
previously learned
 Ability to plan, organize work, and make decisions

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026



Physical Demands

(The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the
essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions)

o The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; stand; walk;
and use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls
o The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel,
crouch or crawl; and talk and hear
o The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
o Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision,
peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus


Tools and Equipment Used
o Town equipment as required to plow snow, sand/salt roadways
o Basic equipment for maintenance, grounds keeping, and cleaning
o Smartphones, printers, Windows, Microsoft Office® Suite, and other programs or
electronic devices used in the operation of the Town's sewer system



Work Environment

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential
functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions)

o The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud
o While performing the duties of this job the employee occasionally works in
outside weather conditions including wind, dust, snow, rain, or humidity
o The employee is occasionally exposed to extreme cold or heat, or hazardous
materials
The duties listed above are intended as illustrations of the various types of work that may be
performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position
if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does
not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject
to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

WPCA Assistant Operator
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised August 2026

8.D.

26/27-14: Consideration/possible action: Modification of Code of Ordinances
Section 42-1, Fee Schedule for Inspection of Buildings used for public service,
manufacturing and occupancies regulated by fire safety code

Town Council Action Requested: Town Council will review an ordinance, proposed by Fire
Chief Bud Meyers, Amending Code of Ordinances Section 42-1, specifically setting fire safety
code inspection fees by resolution instead of ordinance. Upon satisfactory review of the concept
and the language of the ordinance, Town Council may call for and schedule a public hearing for
this ordinance prior to the final consideration for adoption.
Purpose: The Fire Chief has indicated that the code safety inspection fees have not been
updated in several years. Making Changes to the rates when they are codified in the
ordinances is difficult and requires expensive advertisements and a hearing. This can cause
fees not to be reviewed or updated when needed. Amending the ordinance to allow for fees to
be set by resolution will simplify the process and save the Town money in advertising fees. If the
amendment is approved a separate resolution with recommended rates will be submitted to
Town Council for consideration.
History: Section 42-1 setting the fees for fire safety code inspections was adopted through
Ordinance No. 192 on November 9, 1994. It has been nearly 32 year since they were reviewed
and amended.
Facts about the issue: NA
Funding Information: Approving this Ordinance does not increase or decrease the fees being
charged for these services but only changes the mechanism by which they can be adopted.
Town Council, upon final approval of the ordinance, will need to consider fees by separate
resolution.
Steering Committee Recommendation: Approval of the Ordinance
Town Manager Comments: This proposed change will save money and simplify the process
of amending fees in the future.
Town Manager’s Recommendation: 1) Motion to approve the wording of the proposed

ordinance modifying Code Section 42-1, the fee schedule for inspection of buildings
used for public service, manufacturing and occupancies regulated by fire safety code. 2)
Motion to call for a public hearing for the ordinance modifying Code Section 42-1, the
fee schedule for inspection of buildings used for public service, manufacturing and
occupancies regulated by fire safety code, to be held on October 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM at
the Coventry Town Hall Annex.

Sec. 42-1. Fee schedule for inspection of buildings used for public service, manufacturing and
occupancies regulated by fire safety code.
(a)

(b)

Pursuant to the provisions of G.S. Connecticut General Statutes § 29-305 mandating annual inspections by
the fire marshal of all buildings and facilities of public service, all buildings and facilities used for
manufacturing, and all occupancies regulated by the Fire Safety Code, a fee schedule shall be adopted by
resolution of the Town Council. Such fee schedule shall be reviewed periodically and posted on the Town
website. The following services shall be included the following fee schedule is established:
(1)

Annual inspection fee, $30.00, except for nonprofit, social, charitable and religious institutions, which
shall not be required to pay a fee.

(2)

Reinspection fee: first return, no charge; second return or subsequent returns, $50.00 each.

(3)

Review of building plans for new construction or renovations: $50.00 for the first hour or for a review
requiring less than one hour; $35.00 per hour for each subsequent hour or fraction of an hour.

(4)

Underground oil or gas storage tank removal, $50.00.

(5)

The fee payable under subsection (a)(1) of this section includes the annual fee for renewal of lLiquor
license applications. No additional fee shall be required for such applications.

(6)

Other services authorized by the Connecticut General Statutes as may be deemed appropriate

The fire marshal shall submit the bill to the responsible party at the time the inspection or review is
concluded.

(Ord. No. 183, 8-3-92; Ord. No. 192, 11-9-94)

Created: 2024-09-23 08:47:53 [EST]

(Supp. No. 21)
Page 1 of 1

8.E.

26/27-15: Consideration/possible action: Modification to job description, Senior
Center Van Driver

Town Council Action Requested: Town Council shall consider amending the Senior Center
Van Driver job description to add responsibilities and to update the duties expected.

Purpose: The Town began this review with the appointment of the new Human Services
Administrator, Madison Baronoski. She realized that the changes recommended by former
Human Services Administrator Annemarie Sundgren removed a license endorsement that she
believed needed to be with this position based on job expectations. In reviewing the job
description other duties were updated to reflect the current position.
History:. This job description was amended last year to remove the CT Driver’s License F
endorsement from the job requirements as it was believed that it was not needed for expected
duties.
Facts about the issue: The Town uses Van Drivers to transport seniors to the senior center and
to appointments.
Funding Information: There is no change to this position in pay due to these amendments
Steering Committee Recommendation: The Steering Committee at their August 24th meeting
voted to recommend the approval of the Senior Center Van Driver job description as was
amended.
Town Manager Comments: none.
Town Manager’s Recommendation: 1) Move to approve the Senior Center Van Driver job

description as presented.

Town of Coventry, CT Job Description
Position: Senior Center Van/Bus Driver
Department: Human Services
Position Purpose: Provides comprehensive, efficient, and safe transport for the Town’s elderly
and individuals with disabilities to meet transportation needs as approved by the department
Supervision:
 Received
o Works under the supervision of the Human Services Administrator, with guidance
from the Senior Center Coordinator and Transportation Coordinator
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 Operates handicap accessible van and/or bus with up to 14 passengers
 Complies with traffic laws and regulations to operate the vehicle in a safe manner
 Adheres to planned transportation schedules for passenger pickup times
 Maintains a clean and well-kept vehicle, reporting any maintenance issues as needed or
accidents to the appropriate staff promptly
 Ensures passengers are safe and provided with assistance on and off the vehicle as
neededsafe and efficient transportation for passengers and provides assistance with
loading and unloading materials and equipment as needed
 Runs errands and provides general support to Senior Center staff
 Receive and carry out oral and written directions
Desired Minimum Qualifications:
 Education, Training, Experience
o Must have valid State of Connecticut driver's license with an F endorsement
(Taxi, livery, service bus, motor bus, or motor coach)
o Must acquire First Aid and CPR with AED certification within one (1) year of
hiring


Knowledge, Ability
o Knowledge
 Knowledge of motor vehicle operation and traffic laws
 Knowledge of safety requirements pertaining to transportation
o Ability
 Ability to read and understand route directions
 Ability to understand the needs of older adults
 Considerable skills driving a minivan/bus preferred

Senior Center Van/Bus Driver
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised July 2026





Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with
employees, supervisors, other agencies, participants, instructors,
community leaders, and the general public
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing

Physical Demands

(The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the
essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions)

o The employee is required to assist elderly and disabled passengers with
wheelchairs, walkers, canes; operate objects, tools or controls
o The employee must be able to sit/drive for long periods of time
o The employee is required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
o The employee must occasionally lift and/or move light to medium weight (25
pounds)
o Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision,
peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus


Tools and Equipment Used
o Occasional operation of handicap accessible lift
o Vehicles as required to transport elderly or disabled passengers



Work Environment

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential
functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions)

o The noise level while driving is usually quiet to moderate
o The employee is occasionally required to drive in poor weather conditions
The duties listed above are intended as illustrations of the various types of work that may be
performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position
if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does
not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject
to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Senior Center Van/Bus Driver
Town of Coventry, CT

Revised July 2026

Coventry Board of Education
Coventry, Connecticut
Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda - REVISED
Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
Administration Building Conference Room
I.

Call to Order

II.

Salute to the Flag

III.

Audience of Citizens

IV.

Report of the Superintendent
A. Staff Recognition: Coventry 2027 Teacher of the Year - Angela Puccia, CGS
Teacher
B. Information: Opening of the 2026-27 School Year
C. Information: Curriculum Update (Deeper Thinking Learning) - Ms. Mullaly,
Director of Teaching and Learning

V.

Report of the Chairman

VI.

Communications

VII.

VOTE: Approval of Minutes
A. Approve Minutes of June 25, 2026
B. Approve Minutes of August 13, 2026

VIII.

New Business
A. Information and Possible VOTE: Wrestling Co-Op Team with E. O. Smith - Mr.
Cox, Athletic Director
B. Information and Possible VOTE: District Communication to the Blue Ribbon
Commission

IX.

Report of Board Members
A. Information: Transportation Committee Report, Meeting of July 27, 2026
B. Information: Fiscal Committee Report, Meeting of August 13, 2026
1. Possible VOTE: Approve Budget Transfer

X.

Possible VOTE: Executive Session (Attorney-Client Confidential Communication)

XI.

Open Session

XII.

Adjournment