Windsor Locks conservation commission flags drainage and erosion concerns at Waterworks property

Windsor Locks — At a regular meeting Oct. 28, the Town of Windsor Locks Conservation Commission discussed increased standing water and erosion at the town-owned Waterworks property, and considered vegetation management at a nearby condominium development. The commission also approved its Sept. 23 meeting minutes and then adjourned.

Chair Darry Ruiter said he believes no pipe was placed on the Waterworks property and reported "there is more water in areas where there used to not be water," linking the change to issues at a former reservoir and a reported beaver-dam breach that sent branches and debris downstream. Ruiter said a fence that once bordered the old reservoir has broken and that the reservoir had been filled in before the property was transferred to the town.

Ruiter also raised erosion along the border with the Thrall Property, noting soil loss where parts of Thrall Property slope into the Waterworks parcel. Commissioners discussed whether planting trees would help restore areas where a tree line at the Woodridge Condos was not mowed and is expected to revert to natural woods.

Member Mary Jane Perrier asked how the commission could move from identifying these issues to resolving them; the minutes record discussion about what steps or resources would be needed but do not show any formal direction or assignment to staff.

Before the discussion, the commission recited the Pledge of Allegiance and completed a roll call that showed three members present. Perrier moved to approve the Sept. 23, 2025 meeting minutes; Roger Sullivan seconded and the motion passed, 3-0. Near the close of the meeting, Sullivan moved to adjourn; Perrier seconded and the motion passed, 3-0. The meeting adjourned at 6:43 PM. Recording Secretary Emily Kalenauskas signed the minutes as "Respectfully submitted."