Council Sets Public Hearing for Potential Referendum on Road Improvements

The town council set a public hearing for its next meeting to discuss a potential referendum which, if scheduled and passed by Tolland voters, would allow for $5 million in bonding to fix a larger number of town roads.

Town Manager Steven Werbner said that the town currently invests around $500,000 a year for roadwork, but that the amount is generally maintaining the quality level of Tolland roads. According to a , the town has an average Pavement Condition Index of 71.

If the proposal goes to referendum, Tolland residents would vote to approve the bonding during the November election.

Information on how this bonding may affect the town's debt management plan is included in the council's agenda.

The council also approved a resolution allowing the town to apply for a STEAP (Small Town Economic Assistance Program) grant to go towards putting artificial turf in at . The town could receive up to $500,000 if Tolland is selected. 

Let Patch save you time. Get great local stories like this delivered right to your inbox or smartphone every day with our free newsletter. Simple, fast sign-up here.

Werbner said that the grant would fund the turf portion of the project; plans are also being made to put lights at the football field. The project has been discussed at previous meetings as a potential revenue source for the school's athletic programs as the field is used by other groups for night games.

The council tabled another agenda item concerning the Campbell property and a proposal to approve a "license to farm" agreement before an agricultural easement is placed on 13.1 acres of the "Peaceful Valley" property, which have been used as recreation and open space land, traditionally.

According to the agenda, the town owns the land, but Jeff Campell recently came into possession of the homestead across the street and would like to continue farming activities that have been occurring on the town property.

The item discussion was postponed because the council wanted more information before proceeding.

The council is scheduled to meet next on August 14 at 7:30 p.m.