Common Council considers budget reallocations and Internet service contract with LightPath Technology

The Finance & Claims Committee of Norwalk City convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss key financial matters, including the reallocation of funds for the Brookside School project and the approval of a new internet service contract.

The committee reviewed a request for the reallocation of $320,000 from the Brookside project budget, which was previously approved by the Board of Estimate and Taxation. Committee members expressed confidence that this transfer would not jeopardize the project's completion, as the total budget for Brookside School is approximately $2.5 million, with construction costs contracted at around $2 million. The committee confirmed that sufficient contingency funds are available to cover any potential changes or additional costs.

In a unanimous vote, the committee approved the reallocation, allowing the matter to proceed to the full Common Council for final review on July 22.

Additionally, the committee authorized Mayor Harry W. Rilling to enter into a five-year contract with Light Path Technology Inc. as a secondary internet service provider. The contract, not to exceed $132,000, aims to ensure uninterrupted internet service for critical city operations, particularly for public safety. The IT department emphasized the importance of having a backup internet connection that operates independently from the primary service, ensuring that city services remain functional even during outages.

Both items were approved unanimously, reflecting the committee's commitment to maintaining essential services and infrastructure in Norwalk. The next steps involve presenting these approvals to the Common Council for final endorsement.