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Select Board approves moving forward on new town sign after debate over cost and prior grant-funded removal
Summary
After a lengthy public discussion about location, size and cost, the Stamford Select Board voted to proceed with a new town sign (quotes ranged from $800 to $3,500). A resident accused the town of misusing previous grant funds when an earlier sign was removed; the board disputed that characterization and emphasized following bylaws and documenting insurance and specs before installation.
The Stamford Select Board voted by voice to proceed with replacing the town sign after prolonged debate over contractor quotes, placement, historic donations and whether taxpayers should cover the work.
Residents and board members discussed multiple price points presented by a contractor: $800 for a limited install, $2,700–$3,500 for full installation and foundation work. One speaker summarized the contractor figures: “He quoted us $800 to install this with the frame in it… and it came in at $3,500 to have the whole thing done” for a freestanding sign including digging and concrete. Board members and residents debated whether to mount the sign on the school building or make it freestanding in front of an existing stone wall, questioned materials and asked the contractor to provide engineering specifications and proof of insurance prior to any work.
The discussion grew heated when a resident later identified as Pam objected to asking taxpayers to pay again after a grant-funded sign had previously been installed and removed. Pam said, “That money was stolen from the grant organizations,” and urged the town to refund the grant organizations. Board members responded that the situation resulted from committee and process failures, not theft, and that legal review and follow-up had been done. One board member said they had spent money on legal counsel and that the board should ensure bylaws and permitting are followed going forward.
Procedurally, the Chair moved to use remaining Community Project Funds and to draw on Selectmen’s expenses for any overages; a second was recorded and the board said they would verify the contractor’s final quote, material choices and insurance documents before proceeding with procurement and installation. Volunteers offered to replant and maintain landscaping around the sign; the board planned a site visit to mark the correct setback and finalize placement with the school.
Next steps: staff will collect the contractor’s written quote and materials list, verify insurance and permitting constraints, and return to the board with finalized costs and a funding breakdown prior to installation.
