Town Council Sets Public Hearing for Proposed Senior Housing

The town council set a public hearing date for a proposed contract with the non-profit organization, The Access Agency, which would partner with the town to potentially develop the unoccupied portion of Parker Memorial School into affordable senior housing.

Town Manager Steven Werbner explained that The Access Agency would help the town acquire grant money for the project.

"Most of the infrastructure would be grant funded," he said. Werbner added that the building's proximity to town hall, the senior center, the library and more, would be beneficial for the senior residents.

Werbner said that the project could be completed in approximately two years.

David Berto of Housing Enterprises, Inc. and town staff have determined that more than 40 units could be developed in the unoccupied portion of Parker School. The Recreation Department would remain in its current location at the school, Werbner said.

Werbner also acknowledged that access points to would have to be relocated, particularly to prevent problems for the buses.

Council member Jan Rubino expressed enthusiasm for the idea, since it could fulfill housing needs for Tolland's senior citizens.

"We really do have such a shortage," she said.

The hearing is set for February 28 at 7:30 p.m. The recent will also go to public hearing on that date.

The council also altered the town's solid waste regulations. The town will now pay the fee to replace recycling containers that are damaged beyond repair through vandalism, as long as a police report is filed. Previously, residents only received a free replacement container if it was stolen.

The next town council meeting is scheduled for February 28 at 7:30 p.m. in town hall.