Cheshire Council seeks $800K for 2024 road improvement program funding

The Town Council of Cheshire, Connecticut, convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on equipment purchases and road improvement funding.

The meeting began with a proposal for a new manhole coring attachment for a skid steer, priced at $44,000. Currently, the town contracts out manhole coring services at a cost of $1,200 to $1,500 per structure. The attachment would allow town crews to adjust manhole frames to new road surfaces more efficiently, potentially saving costs over time. Council members discussed the expected lifespan of the equipment, estimated at around ten years, and noted that the investment could pay for itself within two to three years based on current usage rates.

Following this, the council addressed the need for additional equipment, including a utility vehicle for park maintenance and a second Ventrac unit for mowing and sidewalk maintenance. The utility vehicle is expected to be particularly beneficial for the expanded Bartlett Park, while the Ventrac unit would enhance mowing capabilities on steeper slopes.

The discussion then shifted to the town's road improvement program. The council reviewed a recommendation to increase funding for road improvements from $400,000 to $800,000. This increase is aimed at maintaining the quality of Cheshire's road network, which has been noted for its favorable condition compared to surrounding towns. The council acknowledged the importance of continual investment in road maintenance and discussed the implications of the proposed budget adjustments.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the town's commitment to improving infrastructure and maintaining public facilities while navigating fiscal realities. The council plans to further evaluate the proposed equipment purchases and road funding in upcoming sessions, ensuring that the town's needs are met effectively.