Newtown Board Of Finance Approves Budget Transfers, Police Grants

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Board of Finance approved several budget amendments and accepted multiple law enforcement grants during its regular meeting Monday evening, while also reviewing ongoing town financial initiatives and delaying action on several fiscal policies.

The meeting, held April 14 at the Newtown Municipal Center, was led by Chair Steve Goodridge. Board members John Fletcher, Janette Lamoureaux and James Gaston were present. Members Barney Molloy and Bryce Chinault were absent.

Budget Amendments and Grant Approvals

The board unanimously approved a $436,104 transfer within the Department of Public Works budget to cover winter maintenance, overtime, street lighting, and building maintenance costs. The funds were reallocated primarily from the highway road improvement line.

A $40,000 transfer within the Police Department budget was also approved to address salary overtime expenses.

Additionally, the board accepted five grants to offset police-related enforcement and training costs:

• $19,218.74 from the Speed Enforcement Training Grant
• $10,347 from the Distracted Driving High Visibility Enforcement Grant
• $33,112.28 from the DUI Enforcement Grant
• $40,818.86 from the Drug Law Enforcement Training Grant

The board also accepted $7,000 from the Historic Documents Preservation Program to support the Town Clerk’s preservation initiatives.

First Selectman and Finance Director Reports

First Selectman Jeff Capeci reported that the town has hired a new facilities manager, scheduled to begin May 5. He also said the Save As You Throw (SAYT) waste management program remains on track to launch July 1, and interest continues in the redevelopment of large-town industrial properties.

Finance Director Glenys Salas provided updates on the town’s fiscal planning. Five bids have been received following a request for proposals for an investment advisor. A committee including the First Selectman will interview candidates April 22.

Salas also noted that the town is working to streamline financial procedures with Edmond Town Hall. A revised proposal has been approved by the Town Hall’s Board of Managers and will go before the Board of Selectmen next week.

The Finance Department has begun fiscal year-end preparations, and departments are reviewing budgets to identify shortfalls and ensure a smooth audit process. The department is also modeling cash flow projections for water and sewer benefit assessments, identifying over $132,000 in additional interest revenue that could accelerate debt repayment and possibly reduce future rate increases.

Policies Tabled

The board postponed discussion on several pending policy items until all members are present. These include the Outside Agency Request for Funds Policy, Asset Capitalization Policy, and General Fund Balance Policy. The Unassigned Fund Balance Policy was clarified as being part of the general fund policy and removed from further consideration.

The meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. No public comments were made.