Newtown Legislative Council OKs fund and capital plan policies as residents raise concerns over short-term rentals, open space, and veterans
NEWTOWN, CT — The Legislative Council on Oct. 1 approved two key financial policy measures and heard updates from First Selectman Jeff Capeci on town projects ranging from the Aquarion interconnection to a pending lawsuit over the Stone Bridge Trail development.
The meeting, held in council chambers at 3 Primrose Street, was called to order by Council Chair Keith Alexander at 7:30 p.m. All members were present, including John Zachos, who attended virtually.
Fund Management and CIP Policy Revisions
The council unanimously adopted a Proprietary Funds Management Policy designed to strengthen oversight of the town’s Water and Sewer and Medical Self-Insurance funds, which both ran deficits last year. Finance Director Glenys Salas said the policy formalizes procedures for how those boards must handle operations and report deficits.
Council member Chris Gardner successfully added an amendment requiring the appropriate board chair to notify the First Selectman in writing if an operational deficit occurs. The policy still requires approval from the Board of Finance.
Members also endorsed revisions to the Capital Improvement Plan Policy following recommendations from the finance board. The updates clarify how town departments and boards coordinate project submissions and oversight.
Council member Tom Long proposed adding language clarifying that capital projects outside the Public Building and Site Commission’s jurisdiction — such as vehicles, equipment, and infrastructure — are included in the plan. The motion passed unanimously, pending approval from other town boards.
In related business, the council approved a final year-end transfer of $128,170 for fiscal 2025 to cover under-budgeted Social Security costs and higher-than-anticipated legal fees.
First Selectman Reports Progress on Projects
Capeci told the council that the town has completed the Aquarion–Fairfield Hills water interconnection, allowing officials to lift water restrictions and issue “will-serve” letters to developers, including those tied to the Sandy Hook Center project.
He said negotiations continue with Winn Development, and that 3 Main Street is now being actively marketed.
Capeci also reported that he and town staff will meet with Housatonic Railroad representatives about the collapsed rail crossing. Work is underway on the C.H. Booth Library HVAC replacement, and revenue from the town’s CTR program has reached $32,141.
The town continues to navigate the Stone Bridge Trail lawsuit, he added, noting that some of the developer’s demands can be met while others will require negotiation.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Rentals and Open Space
During public comment, Don Morrissey of Merlins Lane urged the council to address short-term rentals such as Airbnbs, calling them harmful to residential neighborhoods. Morrissey cited safety, noise, and property value concerns and argued that a May 2025 land use memorandum changing enforcement practices was not properly authorized.
Emails and messages forwarded to the council before the meeting reflected broader resident concerns. Among them:
David Ackert pressed for updates on the 6 Commerce Road open-space deed and flood damage along the Pootatuck River near the well field.
Dennis Furse and Colter Morgan, both veterans, asked the town to consider expanded or retroactive property tax exemptions.
Another resident appealed for efforts to reduce the town’s mill rate.
Next Steps
Alexander said future agendas may clarify the public comment process as outlined in the town charter. The meeting adjourned at 9:51 p.m.