Newtown Legislative Council Reviews Open Space Deed, Traffic Safety Grants And Capital Planning

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Legislative Council addressed open space protections, traffic safety funding, capital planning and multiple ordinance referrals during its regular meeting Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Town Hall.

Council Chair Laura Miller called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Council members heard public comment from a Sandy Hook resident urging the council to preserve open space restrictions on the state-owned property at 6 Commerce Road. The council later acknowledged receipt of extensive correspondence from residents and local officials related to the parcel and its future use.

Among the evening’s major discussions was an update on the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant. Police Chief David Kullgren and Public Works Director Fred Hurley reported that Newtown has secured an $80,000 planning grant, with the town providing a required local match. The funding will support a townwide traffic safety analysis focused on reducing crashes, fatalities and serious injuries involving motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.

The council also reviewed a comprehensive school facilities update presented by Board of Education and town officials. The presentation outlined enrollment trends, building capacity, deferred maintenance needs and long-range capital planning, including projected costs for infrastructure upgrades at school facilities over the next decade.

Several ordinance matters were referred to committee. The council voted to send a proposed automated traffic camera ordinance to the Ordinance Committee for further review and analysis. Referrals were also made regarding a solicitation and peddling ordinance and a request related to identifying historic roads in town.

Under new business, the council unanimously approved the 2027–2031 Board of Finance Capital Improvement Program, which outlines planned infrastructure investments across town departments, including roads, public buildings and municipal facilities.

First Selectman Bruce Walczak provided an update on a revised lease agreement with Winn Development, including provisions aimed at shortening inspection timeline. Finance Director Glenys Salus reviewed the November 2025 fund balance report, noting that the town’s unassigned fund balance remains above policy targets and is projected to improve modestly by the end of fiscal year 2026.

With no further business, the council adjourned the meeting at 10:35 p.m.