Bonding Still on the Table in Trumbull

The following is the follow-up story to April 11's bonding approval meeting between the Board of Finance and the Town Council.

While discussion of the recently-approved school security bond was held behind closed doors, Trumbull High School Athletic Director Michael Herbst explained the need for new turf.

Good, safe turf scores a 100 based on a test involving dropping a 20-pound weight from three feet up. The test simulates the force a human head would feel hitting the ground.

The field deteriorates over time because the rubber portion meant to cushion falls wears down, according to Herbst.

A score of 200 is considered unsafe, and Trumbull's turf, installed about 10 years ago, is nearing a score of 193, Herbst said. That means injuries including concussions could result.

Asked what would happen if it was not repaired, Herbst replied, "Everything would be away. No one could use the field because of the [lack of] safety."

Maintenance will cost about $36,000 a year and is included in the turf provider's package, he added.

The $740,000 bond was unanimously approved by both the Town Council and the Board of Finance.

Town Councilwoman Kristy Waizenegger asked about private donors.

The director said boosterism does not raise enough money to pay for a new field.

Meanwhile, the soccer fields will be renovated later and the tennis courts will be resealed, said First Selectman Tim Hersbt.

School Security

After a short executive session, the panels returned and unanimously approved bonding $780,000 for upgrading school security.

Board of Finance Member David Rutigliano praised all involved afterward.

"I'm very proud of all the members of town government" involved in the process, he said. "It was really well thought out."

Publicized details of the plan include physical reinforcements of buildings and more police in the schools.

Portable classrooms are being guarded until the end of the school year and more patrols are planned next year, Schools Supt. Ralph Iassogna has said.

Capital Improvement Plan

The Board of Finance tabled the proposed $6.07 million capital improvement bond.

The bond includes Roadways, Public Facilities and Fleet and Equipment. Roadways will cost $2.1 million; Public Facilities, $876,000; and Fleet and Equipment, $953,000.

The Finance Board also sets the tax rate. Taxes are expected to rise 2.1 percent under the recently-approved budget. A meeting date will be set before the May 25 deadline, said finance board Chairwoman Elaine Hammers.