News

The Trash Compactor is Back in Service

We were initially told the mechanical system might need a full replacement, costing around $65,000 plus a 12-week wait for parts. Before committing to the expense and time, we were looking at another opinion when the cause of the problem, incorrect wiring during the original repair, was found and fixed. The trash compactor is 26 years old and needs annual preventive maintenance.

I appreciate everyone’s patience while it was out of service. Our Transfer Station employees again went above and beyond with the additional work needed to service our residents.

Preserving Town Assets

Southbury Police Building during the maintenance work.

Currently, there are a few maintenance projects underway. The exterior of the Police Department has been pressure washed and the wood facade has been painted. Additional repairs are needed on the stairway and decking of the outside entrance to the station. Those repairs should be completed in the next few months.

Work will also begin soon at two of our historic Town-owned buildings.

At the Old Town Hall Museum, the building will be painted, the rotted fence will be replaced, the cracked sidewalk will be repaired and the handicapped ramp and railings will be repaired so users can once again use it independently.

At the South Britain Library, we will be repairing and painting the rotted entrance stairs and railings to provide a safer entrance. All of these repairs have been budgeted for and are within our current budget.

This week we had Prime Reserve Advisors on site to look at town buildings and major systems. They will provide a report to help us plan better for future budgets and capital expenditures.

Our current infrastructure plan is several years out of date, and the last comprehensive professional assessment was completed twelve years ago. This updated report will help guide future capital planning.

As a former property manager, I see the value in preventive maintenance and properly maintaining our amenities. Over the long-term, proper maintenance saves money, preserves what we have, and prepares us for the future.

Animal Control Improvements

We will also be making significant improvements to the Animal Control facility.

Fortunately, our building can be successfully updated to meet the new state regulations that take effect in 2029. We’ll be making the facility compliant with those requirements while also addressing issues identified during state inspections such as replacing damaged fencing. Sanitation concerns from chipped flooring and gaps under the fence of the outdoor runs will be fixed as part of this update. The roofing over the kennels and outside runs is in need of repair along with the building's main roof which has leaked for years.

Earlier this year, Chief State Animal Control Officer Kelli Baker went over the 2029 requirements with us. She also spoke very highly of our Animal Control Officer, Kristin Cedor, whose dedication is greatly appreciated.

Southbury Volunteer Fire Department Leadership

Award recipients at the SVFD's annual dinner.

On July 18th I had the pleasure of attending the Southbury Volunteer Fire Department’s annual dinner with fellow members of the Board of Selectmen. The dinner included new officer swearing in, department awards and recognitions. I would like to congratulate our newest members and awardees. Thank you for answering the call to serve your community. Your commitment, courage, and willingness to put others before yourselves embody the very best of public service.

We recently had one police officer and two volunteer firefighters injured in the line of duty with a chemical fire in a refuse truck. Everyone brought to the hospital were treated and released after about four hours of observation and treatment. You never know what the day will bring. Thankfully, all are well.

Recognizing Years of Service

I would also like to recognize and celebrate the careers of two retiring longtime Town employees, whose years of dedicated service have helped shape our community and improve the lives of countless residents.

Police Sergeant Duane Manville retired after “35 years and 53 days” with the Southbury Police Department and Public Works Head Mechanic Tom Cromwell retired after 39 years of service.

We wish them happiness, good health, and every success as they begin this well-earned new chapter.

Recognizing Great Service

I was also pleased to receive compliments from residents about Southbury Town employees.

Assessor Darcel Peters was recognized for providing outstanding service to a resident, and our Public Works grounds maintenance crew was thanked for their diligence during roadside mowing.

It’s always gratifying when residents notice what we see every day - the professionalism and dedication of our Town staff.

Honoring David K. Merrill

[L-R] Selectwoman Kelly Keenan, First Selectman Tim O’Neil, Cindy McPhee, David Merrill Jr., Selectman Holly Sullivan, Selectwoman Cathy De Carli, and Selectman Jason Van Stone.

The Board of Selectmen recently met with the children of David K. Merrill beside the beautiful mural he painted in Town Hall in 1978. His mural captures some of Southbury's most iconic locations. Cindy McPhee and David Merrill Jr. were presented with a proclamation honoring their father's legacy.

Pool Hours

Beginning August 17 through August 31, the pool will be open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The pool will be closed September 1st-4th due to lifeguards returning to school, and open for Labor Day weekend, Saturday through Monday, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy the pool. Season memberships are now half price, so if you’ve been thinking about joining, now is a great time to take advantage of the reduced rate and view the new landscaping additions around Ballantine Park.

Grant

The Town of Southbury was awarded $535,000 to replace the culvert on New Road. This is part of the State Local Bridge Program, which is a state-funded program that provides municipalities with 50% of the project costs necessary for the reconstruction of municipal bridges.

Upcoming Events

On Tuesday, August 18 at 6pm, Southbury will host a free presentation, Coexisting with Coyotes, by Master Wildlife Conservationist Ginny Apple. Living in Southbury means sharing our community with wildlife. This presentation will cover coyote behavior, current management efforts, and practical ways to coexist safely. It’s a great opportunity for anyone interested in wildlife and nature.

Civic Reminder

The online dog licensing portal closes on August 31, so please make sure your dogs are licensed.

Employment Opportunities

The Town is currently hiring for:

• Human Resources Generalist
• Head Mechanic
• Assistant Mechanic

If you’re interested in serving your community, please apply.

Suggestions

If there’s something you’d like us to know, we’re here to help.

If Public Works attention is needed, or if you have concerns about speeding in your neighborhood, forms are available on the Town website. Betsy and Noreen in the First Selectman’s Office are also excellent resources, and you’re always welcome to contact my office by phone or email with questions, suggestions, or concerns.

I ran for First Selectman because I want to do a good job for the residents and businesses of Southbury. Hearing directly from you helps us serve our community better.