New Canaan approves Farmers Market and Public Works vehicle purchases

The Town of New Canaan Board of Selectmen convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, including budget reviews, community events, and infrastructure improvements.

The meeting began with a review of the town's budget, where officials expressed optimism about hidden revenue that could offset some anticipated increases. The board is set to vote on the budget on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Following the budget discussion, the board approved a request from Alexis Gazy, the Market Master of New Canaan's Farmers Market, to hold the market at the lumberyard parking lot on Saturdays from April 26 to December 2025. Gazy highlighted the market's growth over the past 26 years, now featuring around 40 vendors and attracting large crowds, especially since relocating to its current site.

Next, the board addressed the need for a new animal control vehicle. The current vehicle, a 2012 Dodge van, is no longer reliable. The board approved the purchase of a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox for $24,179, which includes a trade-in value for the old vehicle. The decision was made in accordance with the town's purchasing policy, which does not require formal bidding for purchases under $50,000.

The meeting also included discussions on increasing a purchase order for the town's liability, auto, and property insurance policy with Kerma, due to changes in the number of insured vehicles. The board approved an increase of $5,500 to cover additional vehicles.

Public Works requested authorization to increase a contract for material testing related to the police department's renovations, which was also approved. The board discussed the need for additional testing due to unforeseen conditions during construction.

The board approved a contract for the purchase of granite curbing for sidewalk projects, with a total cost of $19,943.75, and discussed ongoing upgrades to the Waveny House, including plumbing work for a new family bathroom.

In a final item, the board approved a resolution to apply for a $5,000 grant for neglected cemetery maintenance, which will support volunteer efforts in maintaining several local cemeteries.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the upcoming budget vote and no additional comments from the board members.