Public commenters praise school food program and urge more time for council review of major projects
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Summary
At the Dec. 2 meeting, public speakers highlighted the New London Public Schools food program's scale and quality and urged the council to allow more readings and opportunities for public review before voting on large projects such as the community center.
Two public commenters addressed the council on separate but civic-minded topics. Scott Garvini, identified as the school board secretary, outlined the New London Public Schools food service operations, saying "63% of our students qualify for SNAP..." and that the district serves about "1,650 breakfasts and 2,200 lunches" on a typical school day. He described new culturally diverse menu items and offered to share menus with councilors.
Catherine Foley, a resident and former task force member, congratulated newly sworn councilors but criticized the process used for a recent community center vote. She told the council the task force she served on had asked detailed questions about plans and projections and that members were not given adequate time or notice before a $30,000,000 vote. "Most importantly, ensure that there are 3 readings on every agenda items except for urgent issues so that the citizens of the city of New London have an opportunity to have their voice heard," Foley said.
Councilors thanked both speakers. Several said they welcome public engagement and pledged to bring more information and opportunities for residents to weigh in before major votes in the future.