Board refers proposed amendment to expand Shelton Economic Development Commission's scope to public hearing

The Shelton City Board of Aldermen moved to a public hearing a proposed amendment to ordinance 104 that would expand the Shelton Economic Development Commission’s authority beyond city limits so it can undertake regional activities.

Sheila O’Malley, identified in the meeting as the new president of the Shelton Economic Development Commission, spoke to the board and asked for approval to expand the commission’s scope to include regional projects, citing a request from the city of Ansonia. O’Malley said Ansonia has a 68-acre parcel known as the Ansonia Copper and Brass site and has received “close to $40,000,000” in state and federal grants for cleanup and infrastructure; she asked Shelton’s commission to be authorized to administer or assist on the project.

“I’m here because, this board, a long time ago, created the Shelton Economic Development Corporation and limited its scope to the city of Shelton. And what we're asking tonight is for this board’s approval to expand the scope of the Shelton Economic Development Commission to do some regional activities, specifically with the city of Ansonia,” O’Malley said.

Meeting materials and discussion noted that the commission’s existing charter limits work to Shelton and that amending ordinance 104 would clarify authority to act on behalf of or in partnership with neighboring municipalities on specific projects. The board did not vote to adopt the amendment that night; the item was placed on the agenda for a public hearing so aldermen and residents can review the proposed language and provide comment before any final vote.

Ending: The board scheduled the public hearing; the full proposed ordinance language is in the meeting packet for aldermen and the public to review before the hearing.