Newtown Selectmen Discuss Investment Oversight, Signage Rules

NEWTOWN, CT — At its April 21 meeting, the Newtown Board of Selectmen addressed several administrative and financial matters, including signage rules for the upcoming budget referendum, ongoing investment advisor interviews, and a large year-end budget transfer to balance municipal accounts.

First Selectman Jeff Capeci is in receipt of residents' concerns about unclear guidelines surrounding signage on public property for the budget referendum. Capeci noted that while guidelines were provided in collaboration with the Land Use and Registrar's offices, there is no formally written policy. He said he plans to work with the Superintendent and other departments to develop documented rules, which may require ordinance revisions.

The town’s spring newsletter was recently released and included updates on public safety, the upcoming referendum, and a duplex renovation timeline. The repair phase for the duplex roofs is expected to conclude by October.

Capeci also reported that interviews for an investment advisor were scheduled for the following day, with members of the Board of Finance participating. He said second-round interviews will likely include a member of the Board of Selectmen. Capeci addressed concerns from Selectman Michelle Embree Ku regarding board oversight and charter compliance in the advisor selection process. He maintained that the finance director and purchasing authority have the discretion to select the advisor and that no violation of town charter had occurred.

Regarding town property, Capeci said multiple offers have been received for 3 Main Street, and he remains optimistic about a sale. He also met with officials regarding the Shelton ground lease in an effort to resolve open items before involving legal counsel.

The board also acknowledged a message from resident Ned Simpson encouraging the town to prioritize converting more open space into taxable property.

A budget transfer totaling $130,884 was approved to address funding shortfalls in areas such as retirement contributions, audit fees, and employee benefits. The funds were reallocated from unspent prior-year purchase orders and anticipated surpluses in other accounts, including insurance and contingency.

Capeci highlighted upcoming events, including the annual budget referendum on April 22 at Newtown Middle School, the Third Annual NFA SpringFest on April 26, and the Newtown Earth Day celebration.

The board also received public correspondence from the Newtown Conservation Commission and Newtown Allies for Change. The commission invited members to a May 3 hike at 6 Commerce Road to promote preservation of environmentally sensitive land. The advocacy group asked the board to affirm its support for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the face of potential federal rollbacks.

No votes were taken on these communications during the meeting.