Residents press council on tax refunds, crosswalk safety, snow plowing and vacant buildings

A range of residents used the April 14 public-comment period to press the council on budget and quality-of-life issues, including tax refunds, crosswalk safety, snow-plowing practices, parks access and vacant municipal buildings.

Paul Cardullo said he contacted the Connecticut Office of Legislative Research and reported their guidance “essentially confirms that there is no Connecticut law that explicitly prohibits property-tax refunds when a municipality has a surplus,” and recommended the town consider a charter provision or ordinance to set a refund process. The transcript records Cardullo’s recommendation; council did not enact a policy change during the meeting.

On pedestrian safety at the Parker Farms and North Turnpike intersection, resident Larry Kellogg described faded crosswalk markings and frequent driver noncompliance. Police Chief John Ventura said the state would provide a brief delay to allow crossing on a red light at that intersection, would spray-paint the crosswalk and that signage can be installed. Ventura said he would meet with the engineer to confirm timing.

Residents including David Perillo and others raised repeated complaints about public-works snow plowing, saying plows leave large piles on sidewalks and may be traveling too fast. Town staff said they will follow up; Mr. Perillo also asked about estimated water bills and noted concerns about taxes and budget forecasting.

Questions about parks and the use of concrete blocks to protect park property were answered with a promise of an upcoming parks-focused meeting to review conditions, maintenance and accessibility, including restroom needs. Residents also urged the town to find productive uses for vacant municipal buildings.

The council closed public question-and-answer and moved to the next agenda item; the mayor and department heads indicated follow-up would be provided to individuals who raised specific operational concerns.