County administrator reviews 2025 accomplishments: broadband expansion, facility projects and economic wins

The county administrator delivered a year‑end report highlighting completed and ongoing county projects. Completed items cited included the renovated scale house at the landfill and an ADA playground funded and supported by community volunteers. Ongoing and near‑completion projects included the animal shelter expansion (adding ~40 kennels; grand opening expected early 2026), multiple broadband projects (including BEAD‑funded builds and work by Zytel to connect roughly 1,600 BEAD addresses and thousands more through other programs), and design progress on major facilities: a roughly 15,000‑square‑foot sheriff’s office expansion and a 34,000‑square‑foot Department of Social Services building planned to consolidate DSS divisions.

The administrator noted improved financial ratings (S&P double A plus and a strong Moody's rating) and linked fiscal strength to audit results discussed earlier in the meeting. Staff highlighted economic development steps including work at New London Business and Tech Center (lots pad‑ready) and recent employer moves into Montvale. Public information and GIS improvements were also noted, including a new public parcel viewer and a construction project tracker posted on the county website.

The presentation emphasized ongoing broadband work (some projects finishing in mid‑2026), partnerships with providers, and continued efforts to reduce backlog on internal projects. The administrator closed by thanking staff and the board and wishing the community happy holidays.