Board approves modest increase for Sound View Commission; carries out porta‑john, speed‑hump spending

The Old Lyme Board of Finance approved $45,665 for the Sound View Commission, an increase from last year's $43,134, after a brief discussion about rising contracted‑service costs for beach season facilities and recent additions of speed humps.

Frank, who spoke for the Sound View volunteers, said the increase reflects restorations of services deferred last year and higher contractor costs. "Last year we ... deferred some and took some money out of the contract services," he said, adding that the commission has put that money back in for this year. Members noted the contractor now services the porta‑johns multiple days each week and responds to maintenance incidents.

Board members questioned the sharp jump in the porta‑john line. One member noted year‑to‑date actuals were about $11,000 through January and asked how the proposed $20,565 was calculated. Frank replied the figure accounts for additional May and June service as the beaches open and to carry the supply through the following spring. Another member observed the new contractor had replaced a previous vendor when that vendor was sold; board members said they were satisfied with the contractor's responsiveness.

The board voted by voice to accept the Sound View Commission budget. Andy moved the measure and a colleague seconded; the motion passed on a voice vote with no recorded roll call.

The approval came with no additional conditions, though members asked staff and the commission to monitor actual porta‑john usage against the estimate and report back if an in‑year appropriation were needed. The commission also confirmed it will move forward with additional speed‑hump work this season, which officials said accounts for part of the contracted‑services increase.

The board moved on to the Water Pollution Control Authority and other budget items after the vote.