Mayor and council raise utility and town‑building concerns as Aquarion sale and transit shelters loom

Mayor Hoydick and councilors used the March 19 budget workshop to flag county and regional issues tied to town buildings and utilities, urging attention to a possible sale of Aquarion Water Company and to transit‑related shelter and safety shortcomings in a commercial corridor.

The mayor reported Aquarion Water Company (described in the meeting) is for sale and a proposal to sell to the Regional Water Authority is pending. Staff said the Regional Water Authority operates differently from Aquarion (an investor‑owned utility) and that sale terms could change costs or pilot arrangements; councilors asked staff to coordinate with MetroCOG and state regulators to understand any financial impacts to Stratford, including hydrant charges and how rates are set.

Councilors also raised a recurring problem at Stratford Crossing near the Webster Bank, Walmart and Stop & Shop: shoppers and bus riders congregate at a curb without a proper shelter, creating safety and blight problems. Bridgeport Transit District is the agency responsible for shelters and stops; staff said the town has pressed the transit district and property owners (shopping‑center managers) for improvements but does not control those properties. Councilors asked the mayor and staff to pursue stronger coordinated action and suggested joint letters or other pressure with local representatives.

Town buildings maintenance and energy costs were also discussed; staff said they performed a valuation of town‑owned assets to be better prepared for insurance renewals and that estimates for gas and oil may be adjusted before budget adoption. The town also noted recently acquired properties (a former funeral home and other buildings) that will change maintenance responsibilities and could prompt an amendment.