Newtown Legislative Council Advances Solid Waste Code Changes

NEWTOWN, CT — The Legislative Council voted Wednesday to advance proposed changes to the town’s solid waste code while rejecting a request to review Newtown’s peddling and soliciting ordinance.

During public comment, residents raised concerns about door-to-door solicitations despite “no solicitation” signs. Judith Neary and Amy Hale said they had reported recent incidents but were sent back and forth between the First Selectman’s office and the Police Department. Both urged the council to require background checks, fees and clearer enforcement measures to improve public safety.

Council members later considered, but declined, a motion to refer the issue to the Ordinance Committee. The measure failed 7-2, with some members questioning whether revising the ordinance would be effective if the current rules are not being enforced.

Earlier in the meeting, the council unanimously approved sending proposed revisions to Chapter 199 of the town code on solid waste to a public hearing. The changes remove curbside recycling references and defer the definition of recyclables to state statute to account for evolving standards.

Committee reports included an update from the Ordinance Subcommittee, which reviewed a draft ordinance on red-light cameras, and from the Recycling Ad Hoc Committee, which addressed defective trash bags. The manufacturer has agreed to replace faulty bags purchased before July 5 and issue the town a credit.

Council Chair Keith Alexander said the Aug. 20 meeting may follow a public hearing related to the Fairfield Hills lease. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.