Tolland Council Approves Park Garage Funding, Refines Town Goals; Schools, Safety Discussed

TOLLAND, CT — The Tolland Town Council on Dec. 9 approved a supplemental appropriation for the new Parks Department garage, reviewed draft goals for the coming year and heard concerns from residents about school nurse coverage and crumbling foundations.

Council Chair Chris Moran called the hybrid meeting to order at 7 p.m., and welcomed members including Vice Chair Jennifer Buckler, Marilee Beebe, Renie Besaw, Jon Graney, Joseph See and Bret Wells.

Town Manager Brian Foley and several department heads attended.

The Council opened by honoring the Tolland High School boys varsity soccer team for winning the state championship, with the team presenting a plaque to the board.

During public participation, Tolland High School student Beckett Murray criticized gaps in school nurse coverage, saying that because of budget cuts, “If there is a medical emergency a teacher may have to address it," and called for two dedicated nurses.

In committee reports, council members noted progress on contaminated wells, firehouse masonry bids and rising regional health insurance rates. Liaison updates highlighted Planning & Zoning and Board of Education activity.

Supplemental Funding Approved

The council unanimously passed a resolution to transfer $4,816.23 from the Public Works contingency fund to cover flooring expenses at the new Parks Department garage at 116 Cider Mill Road. Project managers cited American Rescue Plan Act timing requirements that previously limited contingency budgeting.

Vision, Mission and Goals Discussion

Council members reviewed a draft town vision and mission statement and council goals for 2026, agreeing to retain the current statements.

Council members debated strategic planning costs and town priorities, including public safety and succession planning. Moran said a strategic plan was omitted due to estimated cost, while Beebe suggested staff overlaps could aid succession. Besaw asked about maintaining a School Resource Officer, and Foley confirmed the town would fund the position through the current fiscal year while researching future arrangements.

On advocacy, See urged continuing support for statewide crumbling foundation insurance programs. Besaw disagreed with language suggesting "completion" of fixes, noting homeowner financial burdens. Moran agreed to edit the draft goal language and circulate it for caucus review; a formal vote is expected at the next meeting.

Appointments and Manager Report

The Council unanimously reappointed Brian Mead as Planning and Zoning Commission alternate and Peter Palmer as the town historian. Foley thanked the Tolland Library Foundation for funding a new digital display and discussed human services initiatives and upcoming Board of Education referendum planning.

In correspondence, residents raised concerns about pavement conditions and electric vehicle charging infrastructure and urged better communication among town boards. Moran reiterated liaison roles as a communication bridge.

The Council adopted the Nov. 25 meeting minutes unanimously and adjourned at 8:18 p.m.