During the Town of Stratford Council meeting on February 15, 2024, several key topics were discussed, highlighting community health initiatives, cultural celebrations, and ongoing economic development projects.

The meeting opened with a proclamation celebrating Heart Health Month, promoting the "Know Your Numbers" initiative, which encourages residents to monitor their health metrics for better decision-making. The mayor also acknowledged February as Black History Month, emphasizing this year's theme, "African Americans and the Arts." She encouraged community members to visit the Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum, recognizing its importance in celebrating local African American heritage.

In addition to health and cultural topics, the mayor reported on various community services, including free income tax preparation assistance and financial literacy classes offered at the South End Community Center. These initiatives aim to support residents in managing their finances, particularly in light of rising living costs.

The council also addressed ongoing economic development efforts, particularly concerning the Army Engine Plant site. The town is collaborating with engineering staff to prepare for the site's redevelopment, which includes environmental remediation funded by state grants. The Complete Streets Phase II Greenway project is progressing, with community outreach planned to gather input from residents and stakeholders.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the town's website functionality. Council members raised concerns about the user experience and navigation issues, suggesting the need for a more modernized and centralized platform for residents to access information about town commissions and vacancies. The mayor acknowledged these concerns and indicated that improvements are in the works.

The meeting concluded with discussions about the rollout of a new garbage program, set to launch in the spring, which will introduce automated sanitation containers to enhance waste management efficiency.

Overall, the meeting underscored the town's commitment to health, cultural recognition, and economic development while addressing community concerns about accessibility and service improvements. As Stratford moves forward, the council's focus on these areas will be crucial in fostering a vibrant and engaged community.