Bethany selectmen consider calendar-year nonresident parking permits, trial recycling hours and park maintenance updates

Board members discussed two town operations items affecting Veterans Memorial Park and the recycling center: a proposal to change nonresident parking permits to a calendar year and a proposed trial of later recycling-site hours during the summer.

A reservations staff member (identified in the memorandum as "Vinny") asked the board to consider changing nonresident parking permits for Veterans Memorial Park from a July–June fiscal-year cycle to a Jan.–Dec. calendar-year cycle so seasonal visitors would not need to buy two partial-year permits. Members discussed proration options, how sales would post to fiscal years and whether the town’s finance officer should be consulted; the chair agreed to follow up and asked staff to return with answers.

Separately, the chair reported questionnaire results indicating some residents want longer recycling hours. She proposed trialing either 10 a.m.–6 p.m. or 11 a.m.–7 p.m. during summer months and said the town would run a three-month pilot if staffing permitted. Board members raised logistics: state or contract rules require two attendants on site, public works may need to cover gaps and overtime could be required. The board asked staff to test staff willingness to change hours and to report back with a recommendation.

The board also heard updates on park maintenance: the 101 Russell Road trail work was completed, public works planted wildflowers and the town’s geese-control measures have reduced flocking at Veterans Park. Resident Gail Ridge (139 Lebanon Road) described local milkweed plantings and research suggesting July pruning encourages new growth and monarch use; the board agreed to monitor and coordinate with public works.

No formal votes were taken on parking permits or recycling hours; both items will return for action after staff follow-up.