On the agenda: West Hartford Town Council Meeting — ALPR (Oct 13)

West Hartford Town Council Meeting
50 South Main Street Legislative Chambers, Room 314
Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 7:30 PM
This meeting will be available live on West Hartford Community Interactive:
Comcast Channel 5 and Frontier TV Channel 6098, YouTube as well as
www.whctv.org
1. Call to Order
2. Proclamations
A. Proclamations
3. Public Forum
A. Any resident or taxpayer of the town may address the Council regarding any item on
the agenda which is not otherwise subject to public hearing.
4. Consent Calendar
A. Consent Calendar
5. Approval of Minutes
A. Town Council Meeting Minutes September 22, 2026
B. Town Council Community Comment Minutes September 22, 2026
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
A. Ordinance Concerning Criteria and Review Procedures for Zoning Special
Exceptions
B. Ordinance Amending Signage Standards in Certain Business Districts
C. Ordinance Concerning Alternative Energy Systems
D. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Participate in the State of Connecticut
Legislatively Directed Grant Program to Support the Construction of Mobility Hubs
E. Resolution Authorizing The Town Manager to Participate in the State of Connecticut
Local Bridge Program to Replace the Bridge at Old Brook Road over Mountain Farms
Brook
F. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Participate in the Connecticut Office of
the Secretary of State Early Voting Grant Program

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G. Resolution Authorizing Suspense of Taxes Owed on the 2022 Grand List for Motor
Vehicles and Personal Property
H. Resolution Approving the New Permit Technician Position in the Department of
Community Development
8. Reports of Town Manager
A. Town Manager's Report
9. Reports of Corporation Counsel
A. Corporation Counsel's Report
10. Communications
11. Announcements
A. Announcements
12. Adjournment
A. Adjourn

Anyone requiring auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or
modification of policies or procedures to participate in a meeting, service,
program, or activity of the Town of West Hartford should contact Yeraida
Reinheimer, at [email protected] or (860) 561-7440, as
soon as possible, preferably seven days beforehand.

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West Hartford Town Council Meeting Minutes
50 South Main Street Legislative Chambers - Room 314
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 7:30 PM

1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:34 PM
Present: Mayor Cantor, Councilors Harris, Lazarus, Lyons, McGinnis, Deputy Mayor
Polun, Walters, Wang and Wenograd
2. Proclamations
A. Proclamations
Mayor Cantor issued a Proclamation recognizing Katia Arroyo-Hunter, Miss Pre-Teen
Puerto Rico of Greater Hartford Cultural Queen
3. Public Forum
Without Objection, Motion to Add an Ordinance Amending the Special Flood Hazard
Area Standards to the Agenda (Polun)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
Without Objection, Motion to Receive and Refer an Ordinance Amending the Special
Flood Hazard Area Standards to Town Plan and Zoning Commission (TPZ) and to set
for Public Hearing on October 27, 2026 at 7:15PM
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
4. Consent Calendar
A. Consent Calendar
Without Objection, Motion to Place items 5A, 7C and 7D on the Consent Calendar
(Polun)
MOTION CARRIES (9, YEA, 0 NAY)
Motion to Adopt the Consent Calendar (Polun)
Second (McGinnis)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
5. Approval of Minutes
A. Town Council Meeting Minutes September 8, 2026

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CONSENT
6. Unfinished Business
NONE
7. New Business
A. Resolution Authorizing the Town Manager to Participate in the State of Connecticut
Legislatively Directed Grant Fund Program to Support the Construction of a Public
Restroom on the Town Hall Campus
Motion to Adopt (Polun)
Second(McGinnis)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
B. Resolution Setting the Town Manager’s Compensation
Motion to Adopt (Polun)
Second(McGinnis)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
C. Appointment of Seth Allen as a Member of the Veterans Affairs Commission for a
term ending December 31, 2028.
CONSENT
D. Appointment of Amanda Bentz as an Alternate Member of the Historic District
Commission for a term ending December 31, 2029
CONSENT
8. Reports of Town Manager
A. Town Manager's Report
Town Manager Richard Ledwith presented his report to the Council
9. Reports of Corporation Counsel
A. Corporation Counsel's Report
Corporation Counsel, Dallas Dodge presented his report to the Council and confirmed
that the Council will need to enter into Executive Session
10. Executive Session
Without Objection, Motion to Enter into Executive Session for a discussion of strategy
regarding pending claims or pending litigation under section 1-200(6)(B) of the General
statutes, to wit Vessel Technologies vs. West Hartford Town Planner. (Polun)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
The Council entered into Executive Session at 8:26 pm. The Council was joined by
Corporation Counsel Dodge and Town Manager Richard Ledwith. The Council exited
Executive Session at 9:12 pm.

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11. Communications
NONE
12. Announcements
A. Announcements
Mayor Cantor and Councilors announced upcoming events and information.
13. Adjournment
A. Adjourn
Without Objection, Motion to Adjourn (Cantor)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
The meeting adjourned at 9:13 PM.

Page 5 of 21

West Hartford Town Council Meeting Minutes
50 South Main Street Legislative Chambers, Room 314
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 7:25 PM

1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:25 PM
Present: Mayor Cantor, Councilors Harris, Lazarus, Lyons, McGinnis, Deputy Mayor
Polun, Walters, Wang and Wenograd
2. Communications
A. Cory Manento, 58 Belknap Road, addressing the Council on the Town's use of ALPR
Cameras
Cory Manento addressed the Council on the Town's use of ALPR Cameras
3. Adjournment
Without Objection, Motion to Adjourn (Cantor)
MOTION CARRIES (9 YEA, 0 NAY)
The meeting adjourned at 7:34 PM.

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ORDINANCE CONCERNING CRITERIA AND REVIEW PROCEDURES FOR ZONING SPECIAL
EXCEPTIONS
WHEREAS, zoning ordinances establish certain classes of uses known as special exceptions
and as-of-right uses; and
WHEREAS, special exceptions are limited and defined home occupations generally located in
residential zoning districts; and
WHEREAS, applications for special exceptions are considered by the Zoning Board of Appeals
and require a public hearing, notice of which is published in the newspaper and sent to abutting
property owners; and
WHEREAS, creating a look-back review procedure for special exception approvals, modeled on
the procedure for special use permits, would improve the efficiency of the permitting process and
provide greater consistency and predictability for applicants and residents.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST
HARTFORD THAT:
Section 177-49 D of the West Hartford Code of Ordinances is hereby amended as follows:
D. Procedure. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hold a public hearing on all
matters it is required to decide. The Board shall give notice of the hearing by
advertisement in a newspaper as required by state statute and, except on appeals
where it is alleged that there is an error in any order, requirement or decision
made by the official charged with the enforcement of this chapter, by sending by
first-class mail a copy of the notice to the applicant and to the owners of all
property adjoining the property which is the subject of the application. The
applicant for a variance or special exception shall post a sign giving notice of the
application in a conspicuous place on the property for which a variance or special
exception is sought, visible from a public street. Said sign shall be posted at least
seven days before the date of the hearing, and it shall be removed not later than
three days after the public hearing. Said signs shall be provided by the Town
without charge. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall decide any appeal within 65
days after the hearing.
(1)

In approving any special exception, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall
determine a date, not later than two years after the date of its approval,
by which the applicant shall be required to appear at a hearing to report
upon compliance with the conditions placed by the Board upon its
approval.

(2)

At the time of such hearing, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear
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Page 7 of 21

from the applicant, Town staff and the public with respect to
compliance with the approval and with the conditions placed by the
Board when the special exception was approved, as well as problems or
concerns which may have arisen as a result of the project or the
approval.
(3)

Such hearing shall be noticed and conducted in accordance with the
provisions of this section, the Charter of the Town of West Hartford and
the laws of the State of Connecticut.

(4)

As a result of such hearing, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall
determine whether or not further conditions should be imposed upon its
approval in order to satisfy its obligations pursuant to Subsection C of
this section and, if it determines that such conditions are necessary, shall
modify its approval accordingly. The Board shall have the power to
revoke its special exception as result of such hearing and shall have the
authority to direct the applicant and/ or Town staff to take appropriate
action to rectify any violations of its approval and conditions related
thereto which are discovered during such review process.

(5)

The Zoning Board of Appeals shall not be entitled to further review of
any special exception subsequent to this process unless the use of the
property or structures on it changes such that an amendment to the
permit is necessary or appropriate.

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

2
Page 8 of 21

ORDINANCE AMENDING SIGNAGE STANDARDS IN CERTAIN BUSINESS DISTRICTS
WHEREAS, the Plan of Conservation and Development recommends reviewing and revising the zoning
ordinances to support the current and futures needs of the business community; and
WHEREAS, clear and appropriate commercial signage is increasingly essential for national corporate
tenants to establish brand identification within communities; and
WHEREAS, the Town recognizes that reasonable and standardized signage allowances are vital to attract
and maintain national business and contribute to long-term economic development of the community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST HARTFORD
THAT:
Section 177-33 G of the West Hartford Code of Ordinances is hereby amended by adding the following
new subsection (2)(a)[1][g]:
[g]

For any building three stories or taller which is located in the BC or CBDH districts, a total
of two additional exterior building wall signs are permitted at the upper most floor level
unit of occupancy. Said signage shall be limited to a maximum height of 36 inches and
shall not exceed 125 square feet of total sign area. Signs shall not extend above any
building wall or building wall parapet, whichever is lower.

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

1
Page 9 of 21

ORDINANCE CONCERNING ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SYSTEMS
WHEREAS, the Plan of Conservation and Development recommends reviewing the zoning ordinances
and identifying potential areas for targeted modifications that support sustainable development practices;
and
WHEREAS, establishing clear, permissive zoning standards for ground-mounted solar installations
ensures more equitable clean energy access across single-family neighborhoods while furthering
Sustainable CT initiatives aimed at expanding local solar deployment.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST HARTFORD
THAT:
Section 177-37.3 C (3)(b)[2] of the West Hartford Code of Ordinances is hereby amended as follows:
[2] Where permitted, ground-mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed 10 feet in height.

In residential zones, ground-mounted solar energy systems shall not cover more than 10%
of the area of the required rear yard in which the system is to be located, except that where
a main use is subject to special use permit approval pursuant to § 177-42A, an applicant
may seek such approval for installation of a ground- or pole-mounted solar energy system
extending up to the maximum height permitted for main buildings in the zone. Height
shall be measured at the highest point on the system. Where components of the solar
energy system track the sun's movement across the sky, the height shall be measured
relative to the system's most vertical position. Ground-mounted solar energy systems shall
also be subject to the following limitations:
Zone

GroundMounted

Pole-Mounted

[All multi-family zones,
R-6, R-10, R-13]

[Prohibited]

[Prohibited]

All multi-family zones,
R-6, R-10, R-13, R-20

Permitted in rear
yard only

Prohibited

R-40, R-80

Permitted in rear
yard only

Permitted in
rear yard only

All commercial and
industrial zones

Permitted

Permitted

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

1
Page 10 of 21

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE STATE OF
CONNECTICUT LEGISLATIVELY DIRECTED GRANT PROGRAM TO SUPPORT THE
CONSTRUCTION OF MOBILITY HUBS
WHEREAS, the Mobility Hub Project (the “Project”) will integrate bike share, transit
connections, e-charging stations, covered bike racks, pedestrian infrastructure and emerging
mobility technologies; and
WHEREAS, the Project is in line with both the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Plan and the
Town’s Vision Zero Plan by enhancing multimodal transportation options, reducing vehicle
congestion and improving safety for all road users; and
WHEREAS, the Mobility Hubs will be located on LaSalle Road at the corner of Arapahoe Road
and another on Farmington Avenue adjacent to the Veterans Memorial; and
WHEREAS, the Connecticut General Assembly has awarded the Town of West Hartford a grant
in the amount of $375,000 to fund the construction of the Project, which grant will be administered
by the Connecticut Department of Economic Development; and
WHEREAS, the estimated cost of the project is $410,000, the balance of which will be funded
through the Capital Projects Fund.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST
HARTFORD THAT the Town Manager is hereby authorized to submit an application to the
Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development requesting grant funds in an
amount not to exceed $375,000; to accept the grant, if offered; to execute an Assistance
Agreement, any amendments thereto and such other documents as may be required; to take such
other actions as may be necessary or required to apply for and receive the grant; and to act as the
authorized representative of the Town of West Hartford for all purposes in connection therewith.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the fiscal year 2026-2027 Capital Projects Fund is
hereby amended to accept the grant funding from the State of Connecticut for the construction of
the Mobility Hubs as follows:
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
Increased Estimated Revenues:
41-87273383-9071
Miscellaneous State Revenue
41-87273383-9386
Transfer In from Traffic System Management
Total

$375,000
$ 35,000
$410,000

Increased Estimated Appropriations:
41-87273383-3999
Mobility Hubs

$410,000

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

Page 11 of 21

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE STATE OF
CONNECTICUT LOCAL BRIDGE PROGRAM TO REPLACE THE BRIDGE AT OLD BROOK ROAD OVER
MOUNTAIN FARMS BROOK
WHEREAS, the Town bridge at Old Brook Road over Mountain Farms Brook, built in 1930, is in
need of replacement; and
WHEREAS, the estimated cost of the project is $1,956,150; and
WHEREAS, the Town has submitted a preliminary application to the Fiscal Year 2027 State Local
Bridge Program administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, which has
conditionally committed to funding fifty percent (50%) of eligible project costs in the amount of
$978,075; and
WHEREAS, the Town will be required to match this grant funding with $978,075, which funds will
be included in Year 1 of the Town Manager’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027-2028 Capital Improvement
Program Budget; and
WHEREAS, to continue the grant process, the State has requested that the Town of West Hartford
submit a supplemental application no later than July 29, 2027.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST
HARTFORD THAT the Town Manager is hereby authorized to submit the supplemental
application to the Connecticut Department of Transportation Fiscal Year 2027 State Local Bridge
Program, accept the grant, if offered; to execute an Assistance Agreement, any amendments thereto
and such other documents as may be required; to take such other actions as may be necessary or
required to apply for and receive the grant; and to act as the authorized representative of the Town
of West Hartford for all purposes in connection therewith.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the fiscal year 2026-2027 Capital Projects Fund is hereby
amended to accept the grant funding from the State of Connecticut for the reconstruction of the bridge
at Old Brook Road over Mountain Farms Brook as follows:
Increased Estimated Revenues:
41-87285983-9071
Miscellaneous State Revenue

$978,075

Increased Estimated Appropriations:
41-87285983-3999
Old Brook Rd. Bridge

$978,075

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

Page 12 of 21

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CONNECTICUT
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE EARLY VOTING GRANT PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Town Council, by resolution adopted on February 13, 2024, designated the Town
Hall as the one polling location for early, in-person voting for all elections and has since
appropriated three grants from the Office of the Secretary of State to support implementing early
voting; and
WHEREAS, the period of early voting for the general election is fourteen days and the hours of
operation vary from eight hours per day to twelve hours per day; and
WHEREAS, the Registrars of Voters are required to ensure that the early polling location is
properly staffed and that every ballot submitted is subject to the same procedures relating to ballot
custody, control and counting under existing election laws; and
WHEREAS, the Town of West Hartford has seen significant participation by its residents during
the period of early, in-person voting for the general election; and
WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut, Office of the Secretary of State, has provided a fourth grant
in the amount of $43,828.48 to support the administration of early, in person voting.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST
HARTFORD THAT the Town Manager is hereby authorized to submit the Early Voting Grant
application to the Connecticut Office of the Secretary of State, accept the grant; to execute an
Assistance Agreement, any amendments thereto and such other documents as may be required; to
take such other actions as may be necessary or required to apply for and receive the grant; and to
act as the authorized representative of the Town of West Hartford for all purposes in connection
therewith; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the grant in the amount of $43,828.48 is hereby accepted
and the fiscal year 2026-2027 General Fund budget is hereby amended as follows:
Increased Estimated Revenues:
01-91100000-9071
Miscellaneous State Revenue

$43,828.48

Increased Estimated Expenditures:
01-14010002-1008
Temporary Pay
01-14010002-2007
Office Supplies
01-14010002-2016
Printing/Copying
01-14010002-2103
Minor Equipment
01-14010002-2282
Voting Machine Maintenance
Total

$18,064.26
1,200.00
11,329.64
12,520.01
714.57
$43,828.48

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

Page 13 of 21

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUSPENSE OF TAXES OWED ON THE 2022 GRAND LIST FOR
MOTOR VEHICLES AND PERSONAL PROPERTY
WHEREAS, the Town of West Hartford is owed taxes in the amount of $294,756.78 for motor
vehicles assessed on the 2022 Grand List; and
WHEREAS, the Town of West Hartford is owed taxes in the amount of $61,379.96 for motor
vehicles assessed on the Supplemental 2022 Grand List; and
WHEREAS, the Town of West Hartford is owed taxes in the amount of $91,633.46 for personal
property assessed on the 2022 Grand List; and
WHEREAS, section 12-165 of the General Statutes provides that each municipality have a
suspense tax book; and
WHEREAS, section 12-165 further provides that at least once in each year the Revenue Collector
shall deliver to the Town Council a statement giving by rate bill: (1) The name and address of the
person against whom each uncollectible tax was levied, and (2) the reason why such collector
believes each tax is uncollectible; and
WHEREAS, by letter dated October 13, 2026, the Revenue Collector has provided such statement
and certified that, to the best of her knowledge and belief, each tax contained therein has not been
paid and is uncollectible.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST
HARTFORD THAT each tax set forth in the statement certified by the Revenue Collector is
uncollectible; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Revenue Collector is hereby directed to transfer each
tax so designated as uncollectible to the suspense tax book; provided however, that nothing herein
shall be construed as an abatement of any tax so transferred, and any such tax, as it has been
increased by interest or penalty, fees and charges may be collected by the Revenue Collector.
(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

Page 14 of 21

RESOLUTION APPROVING THE NEW PERMIT TECHNICIAN POSITION IN THE DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
WHEREAS, the Permit Technician will bridge the performance gap between the Building
Inspection Division’s administrative and inspection staff during the building permit application
submittal and initial review stage; and
WHERAS, the Permit Technician will also serve as a liaison between the building permit
applicant and the Town staff from the Department of Community Development; Economic
Development Division; Department of Plant & Facilities; Fire Department; and the West Hartford
– Bloomfield Health District to assist with coordination and streamline the application process;
and
WHEREAS, the Permit Technician will proactively assist building permit applicants prior to and
during the application process to address issues that arise related to building code requirements
and/or insufficient documentation to reconcile application issues; and
WHEREAS, the position of Permit Technician is a classified position, Grade 3 in the CSEA,
Local 2001, SEIU Professional Management Unit and the fiscal year 2026-2027 annual salary
range for the position is $71,552.00 - $90,168.00; and
WHEREAS, the Permit Technician will replace the Senior Staff Assistant who has retired in fiscal
year 2026-2027; and
WHEREAS, the annual salary of the Permit Technician position is higher than that of the Senior
Staff Assistant position; and
WHEREAS, there are sufficient funds through building permit revenue to fund the salary
difference between the two positions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF WEST
HARTFORD THAT the fiscal year 2026-2027 General Fund budget is hereby amended as
follows:
Increased Estimated Revenues:
01-30040001-9127
Building Permits

$23,236

Increased Estimated Appropriations:
01-30040001-1001
01-30040001-4019

Full-Time Salaries
Social Security

$21,694
1,542
$23,236

(LEDWITH)
October 13, 2026

Page 15 of 21

Town of West Hartford – Office of the Town Manager
50 South Main Street, Room 310, West Hartford, CT 06107
P: (860) 561-7440 F: (860) 561-7438 www.westhartfordct.gov

Memo
To:
Town Council
From: Rick Ledwith, Town Manager
CC: Town Employees
Date: , October 13, 2026
Re: Town Manager’s Report
Below, please find my report concerning various items of interest to the Town Council,
the staff, and the community:
Council Business & Meetings
•
•
•

Community Planning & Economic Development - October 21, 2026, at 8 a.m.
Public Hearing: Ordinance Amending the Special Flood Hazard Area Standards October 27, 2026, 7:15 p.m.
Town Council meeting - October 27, 2026, 7:30 p.m.

Staff Reports
Top Workplace
We are excited to share that the Town of West Hartford was named one of 2026’s Top
Workplaces in the large-employer category and scored exceptionally high for “Culture
Excellence,” meaning the organization is viewed as a people-first workplace culture.
West Hartford is the only municipality and the only government entity to receive the
award in 2026. The municipality employs more than 750 full-time, part-time, and
seasonal municipal employees.
The award is based on data from a confidential employee survey completed earlier this
year, asking for feedback on their experience working for the Town of West
Hartford. Top Workplaces is a national employer recognition program and researchbased culture project run by Energage.
Effective Oct. 1, call All American Waste for bulky pickup
Effective October 1st, 2026, residents who need to dispose of bulky or oversized waste
items will arrange collection directly with All American Waste (AAW), the Town’s
residential waste and recycling service provider. The change is intended to streamline
service delivery by eliminating the need for residents to contact the Town for a permit
and then contact the service provider to schedule the collection. Collection and disposal
fees will be based on the specific item(s) earmarked for pick-up and disposal, as listed
in the AAW Bulky Waste Collection menu.
All American Waste can be reached by phone at 800-826-7952 or through their
customer service portal, https://www.allamericanwaste.com/contact

Page 16 of 21

New Real Estate Information Platform Now Available
The Assessment Office launched a new online real property information platform,
hosted through DataScout, a Vision Government Solutions subsidiary. This enhanced
system provides improved search capabilities, interactive mapping, mobile-friendly
access, and expanded tools for residents, property owners, and professionals.
New 48-hour Marriage License Waiting Period Requirement Explained
As of October 1, 2026, a new law took effect requiring a minimum 48-hour waiting
period between completing a marriage license application and receiving the marriage
license, per Public Act 26-141. What does this mean for couples? Plan ahead!
Both applicants must first complete the marriage license application process with the
Town Clerk’s Office. Once both applicants complete, sign, and swear to the application,
the required 48-hour waiting period begins.
After at least 48 hours have passed, either applicant may return to the Town Clerk’s
Office to pick up the marriage license. Both applicants do not need to return together;
however, the license cannot be released to a family member, friend, officiant, wedding
planner, venue representative, or other third party.
The new law does not provide a waiver or exception to the 48-hour waiting period, so
advance planning will be particularly important for couples traveling.
Absentee Ballots are now available
Absentee Ballots are available for the November 3rd election from the Town Clerk's
Office. You may request an absentee ballot using one of the following methods:
1. Apply for an absentee ballot online
2. You may request an absentee ballot in person.
3. You may print a completed application, then mail or deliver it to the Town Clerk’s
Office.
Early Voting begins October 19
Early voting will be available from Monday, October 19 to Sunday, November 1 at one
location: the Town Hall Auditorium, 50 South Main Street. The hours are 10 a.m. to
6 p.m. On Tuesday, October 27 and Thursday, October 29, the Town will have
extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
When you arrive to vote during the Early Voting period, you will check in and be verified
as an eligible voter. You will then receive your ballot with an envelope. Complete your
ballot at a privacy booth and seal it in the approved envelope. Before you leave, place
the sealed envelope in the secure receptacle as instructed by election officials. Election
officials will keep ballots unopened until Election Day, November 3.

Page 17 of 21

Dog Park remains closed
The West Hartford Dog Park will remain temporarily closed while the former school at
100 Mayflower Street is demolished. The dog park and the walkway from Beachland
Park will stay closed until October 20, 2026. Previously, the park was slated to reopen
on September 26, but the demolition process is taking longer than expected to remove
the entire building structure and truck it off-site. Thank you for your patience and
cooperation. Our goal is to keep you and your pets safe during construction.
Skating Rink reopens after renovations, October 19
After four months of renovations, the Veterans Memorial Skating Rink is expected to
reopen on Monday, October 19, 2026. Their popular Learn to Skate program begins
October 21, 2026. The rink staff looks forward to welcoming the community back.
Residential Paper Shredding event, October 24
Infoshred, LLC will safely shred your confidential papers for free on Saturday,
October 24, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., or until the truck is full. This service is available only
to West Hartford residents. Please bring your ID. No commercial businesses, please.
Infoshred safely shreds paper on-site and then shreds it again before baling it at
Infoshred’s secure facility. Infoshred recycles all paper it shreds into new products like
tissue paper, paper towels, and dental bibs, saving trees, protecting the environment,
and keeping paper out of the landfill.
We will be collecting non-perishable food items at this event to stock the shelves of our
local Food Pantry. Thank you in advance for helping a neighbor in need.
National Take Back Day, October 24
On Saturday, October 24, the West Hartford-Bloomfield Health District, in conjunction
with the Police Department, will hold its annual National Drug Take Back Day.
National Take Back Day allows the public to dispose of expired, unwanted, or unused
controlled pharmaceutical substances and other medications in an environmentally safe
way. When flushed, these drugs can contaminate our waterways and, when used
illegally, pose a potential risk to public health and safety.
Collection will take place at Charter Oak International Academy, 425 Oakwood Ave
(entrance off Flatbush Ave.), from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The program is anonymous
and free. Volunteers will be on hand to take items from your vehicle.
Household Hazardous Waste, postponed to October 31
Due to the Nor’easter on September 26, the MDC has postponed its Household
Hazardous Waste Collection to Saturday, October 31, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the West
Hartford Public Works Garage, 17 Brixton Street. The event is free and open to MDC
member communities.

Page 18 of 21

Town of West Hartford – Office of the Mayor
50 South Main Street, Room 312, West Hartford, CT 06107
P: (860) 561-7440 F: (860) 561-7438 www.westhartfordct.gov

Memo
To:
Town Council
From: Shari Cantor, Mayor
Date: October 13, 2026
Cc:
Town Employees
Re: Announcements & Events
2027 Best High Schools & School District
Niche has released its rankings of top public and private high schools in its 2027 Best
Schools and Districts in America. Niche analyzed 93,000 public schools, 30,000 private
schools, and 11,000 school districts nationwide. Niche ranked Hall High School #13 and
Conard #17 in Connecticut. The West Hartford school district was ranked #6 in
Connecticut and received an overall Niche grade of A.
Congratulations to Oliver Buckley
West Hartford resident Oliver Buckley, a senior at Hall High School and member of
Troop 146, was celebrated on Sept. 27 for earning the Eagle Scout rank and received a
“Good Citizen Citation” from the American Legion Hayes-Velhage Post 96. For his
Eagle project, he led a tree and shrub planting project at Auerfarm in Bloomfield,
supervising and participating in the procurement and planting of 50 trees and shrubs at
the 120-acre farm.
Residents sought for Boards & Commissions
The Town of West Hartford is seeking residents to apply for current vacancies on eight
of its Boards and Commissions by using the easy-to-use application form. More than 30
boards and commissions advise elected officials and town department leaders on
matters that affect the welfare and quality of life in West Hartford.
The following boards and commissions have vacancies:
• Board of Assessment Appeals
• Board of Assessors
• Historic District Commission
• Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
• Pedestrian & Bicycle Commission
• Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities
• Senior Citizens Advisory Commission
• Veterans Affairs Commission
Art Stop, October 17
The WEHA Artists Emporium will host its fall ART STOP on Saturday, October 17, from
11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering the community a chance to shop for local art and other
handmade goods at a community event that also includes live musical entertainment.
ART STOP will be held at 35 North Quaker Lane.

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COJELLA, October 18
COJELLA, a Celebration of Jewish Engagement, Legacy, and Live Arts, is kicking off
the Mandell JCC's inaugural JLive Festival with a free afternoon celebrating Jewish
music, comedy, storytelling, theater, visual arts, food, and community. The event will
take place in the Town Hall parking lot on Sunday, October 18, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is free. Everyone is welcome.
Enjoy five live performances by local artists, including David Clark's "All About Joel," A
Tribute to Bill Joel. Other musicians include musical comedian Adam Blotner; acclaimed
jazz singer-songwriter Allegra Levy and her all-star band, The Great Jewish-American
Jazz Songbook; and the Hartt Talent Award Showcase spotlighting exceptional young
performers. The event also features family activities, an artisan market, and
opportunities to connect with Jewish organizations from across Greater Hartford.
Connecticut Watercolor Society Watercolor Fall Exhibit, October 18
The Connecticut Watercolor Society will hold its Fall Exhibition at the West Hartford Art
League Clubhouse Gallery from October 18 to November 15, 2026.
Colliding Chapters performance, October 16 & 17
The University of Hartford Hartt School of Dance presents Colliding Chapters, the Fall
Senior Dance Concert, Friday, October 16, and Saturday, October at the Mort and Irma
Handel Performing Arts Center, located at 35 Westbourne Parkway, Hartford. Tickets
for Colliding Chapters are priced at $10 and are available through the University of
Hartford Box Office at (860) 768-4228 or visit https://www.hartford.edu/calendar/boxoffice.aspx
West Hartford Hauntings, October 22-30
West Hartford Hauntings returns October 22-30 with lantern-lit cemetery tours at Old
North Cemetery, 80 North Main St. Tickets are on sale now. This year's production
features an America 250 theme, with stories exploring the Revolutionary War's impact
on Noah Webster's family, the experiences of Loyalists during the fight for
independence, and the lives of West Hartford residents, including Sarah Whitman
Hooker and Bristow, who was enslaved in the community during the 18th century.
Playhouse on Park presents Pinocchio
Pinocchio will run from October 31-November 21, 2026, at Playhouse on Park. This
production is recommended for children in grades K through 5 but offers fun for all ages.
This fresh, fast-paced, story-within-a-story retelling of the classic Pinocchio is brought to
life by five actors weaving together live instruments, shadow puppetry, and boundless
imagination. For more information on Pinocchio, or to purchase tickets, call the Box
Office at 860-523-5900 ext. 10 or visit www.playhouseonpark.org.

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Community Block Party, November 1
Everyone is invited to a Community Block Party at Blue Back Square on Sunday,
November 1, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. What better way to bring neighbors together than
an old-fashioned community block party that celebrates the beautiful diversity of West
Hartford? The free event features live performances, games, face painting, a scavenger
hunt, and information from local organizations and town departments.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item or offer a financial
contribution to the West Hartford Food Pantry to help neighbors in need.
The Community Block Party was hosted by the Town of West Hartford, RiseUP for Arts,
West Hartford Public Schools, and the America 250 West Hartford Committee. For more
information, contact Adrienne Billings-Smith at
[email protected].
Third Annual Walk in the Park, November 7
Join us on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., for a guided walk along the
Trout Brook Trail, West Hartford's linear park. Learn about the trees along the trail and
future expansion plans. The walk will begin at Norfeldt Field, go up to Duffield Drive,
and return to our starting point. This free event is hosted by Friends of West Hartford
Parks. The total distance is about 3 miles.

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