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Danbury to pursue state brownfield grants, council approves $4M remediation application and $200K courthouse assessment
Summary
The council authorized the mayor to apply for up to $4 million in state brownfield remediation funds for 13 Barnum Court and to pursue a $200,000 no-match assessment for the former Fairfield County Courthouse at 71 Main Street; city staff said an assessment would inform feasibility and potential municipal reuse.
City officials told the Danbury City Council March 4 that they will pursue state brownfield funding to address two properties, and the council voted unanimously to authorize application and acceptance if awarded.
For Item 9, the council authorized Mayor Roberto L. Alves to apply for a remediation grant from the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development—rownfield Remediation and Development Program in an amount not to exceed $4,000,000 for remediation of property at 13 Barnum Court, with no city match. Dan Garrick (Director of Finance, named in the communication) was listed in the communication presenting the opportunity.
For Item 10, the council considered a $200,000 no-match assessment grant for the former Fairfield County Courthouse at 71 Main Street. City employee Farley Santos briefed the council, saying the administration is "working in conjunction with the state for a conveyance of the courthouse to the city of Danbury" and that the assessment funds would help determine remediation needs and unlock additional state grant opportunities. Santos said the state wants the building to remain in municipal hands and that the grant would fund environmental abatement planning and a feasibility assessment.
Council members asked operational questions (whether adjacent property would be included for parking and whether there would be tours) and requested a tour and further detail; Santos and other staff said they would coordinate visits and return with additional information. The council emphasized due diligence: the mayor said the grant application is an initial step and the city will not take on undue liabilities without further assurances and funding.
Both the $4 million remediation application (13 Barnum Court) and the $200,000 assessment (71 Main Street) were moved, seconded, and approved by voice vote. The council recorded its support for pursuing these grant opportunities; approvals authorize the mayor to accept awards and sign necessary contracts and agreements if the grants are awarded.
