City Council

MINUTES Vol 27, Page 581 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 A REGULAR MEETING of the City Council and Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) of the City of Torrington was held at the City Hall Auditorium on Monday, August 18, 2025. Present at City Hall were Mayor Elinor Carbone, Corporation Counsel Michael Magistrali, and City Councilors Drake Waldron, Stephan Ivain, Molly Spino, and Paul Cavagnero. Also present at City Hall were Economic Development Director William Wallach, Director of Information Technology Gerry Crowley, and WPCA Administrator Ed Tousey. Councilor Anne Ruwet and Assistant City Planner Nate Nardi-Cyrus participated via Zoom. Councilor David Oliver was absent. Mayor Carbone called the meeting to order at 6:29 p.m., beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance. Public Comment: On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Cavagnero, the Council voted unanimously to open the meeting to the public. No one from the public wished to speak. Approve Minutes On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Spino, the Council voted unanimously to accept the Public Hearing Meeting Minutes from August 4, 2025. On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Spino, the Council voted unanimously to accept the Regular Meeting Minutes from August 4, 2025. Police Officer Recertification – Background Investigation On an amended motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Spino, the Council voted unanimously to authorize the Mayor to retain the law firm Cowdery, Murphy & Healy, LLC to conduct a background investigation, as required by the Police Officer Standards and Training Council, in connection with the recertification of a Torrington Police Officer. Cannabis Revenue Allocations On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Ruwet, the Council voted unanimously to approve the allocation of Cannabis Revenue funds allowable under CGS § 12-330mm(b)(a)(5) in the amount of $50,000 to the Police Activity League (PAL), and $95,000 to the Torrington Youth Service Bureau (TYSB) in accordance with CGS § 10-190(a)(b). Torrington PAL Executive Director Chris Smedick provided an overview of PAL’s activities, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to ensuring no child is excluded due to financial hardship. He noted that PAL keeps program costs lower than other camps and that all PAL camps sell out each year. Mayor Carbone highlighted PAL’s outreach to families in need, its role in connecting families with community resources, and its efforts to strengthen relationships between the Police Department and residents through new programs. Regarding the Torrington Youth Service Bureau (TYSB), Mayor Carbone explained that Councilor Spino questioned the allocation, pointing out that the statutory match is $35,000. The additional $60,000 would fund a prevention social worker employed by TYSB, not the City. This full-time position supports the juvenile justice board by providing redirection and counseling services to at-risk youth, in coordination with the Police Department. Councilor Cavagnero requested clarification on the position’s accountability. Mayor Carbone responded that the role is directly managed by TYSB and offered to invite Executive Director Cathy Ohm to update the Council on the social worker’s work. Mr. Smedick thanked the Council for its support, noting that fundraising remains difficult and that the City’s contribution provides a meaningful boost. Resolution #143-275 – DEEP’s Trees for Communities Grant Program On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Cavagnero, the Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution #143-275, CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) - Trees for Communities Grant Program. Mr. Nardi-Cyrus explained that the grant is a zero-percent match opportunity for distressed communities, designed to strengthen urban tree management, increase tree plantings, and improve care for existing trees. If awarded, the Land Use Department would oversee the grant. Councilor Ivain asked whether the funding would be citywide or area specific. Mr. Nardi-Cyrus noted that it would focus on approximately 4,000 trees in the city center, including downtown, East Main Street, Winsted Road, and South Main Street. He added that the grant would help the City comply with its 2023 Ordinance that requires a long-range strategic plan for community forestry, including tree inventory, mapping, hazardous tree management, and routine care and pruning. Mr. Nardi-Cyrus further explained that the funding comes from an urban equity allocation targeting disadvantaged census tracts. *See addendum #1* MINUTES Vol 27, Page 582 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 WPCA Payments Authorization On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Ruwet, the City Council, herein acting as the Water Pollution Control Authority, voted unanimously to approve the following payments from Fund #490 Sanitary Sewer Capital Improvement: DATE INVOICE CONTRACTOR AMOUNT DESCRIPTION 8/4/2025 # Wright-Pierce $435.36 Harris DR. Pump Station 0000245504 Engineers design 8/4/2025 # Wright-Pierce $12,196.96 Winsted Rd Force Main- 0000245502 Engineers tunnel Project 8/11/2025 # 2000 Yield IND. $47,100.00 Winsted Rd Force Main Emergency Repairs Councilor Ivain inquired whether the sinkhole bridge allocation encompassed the tunnel or sewer pipe replacement. Mr. Tousey clarified that the payments are for design work under that project name and that the force main and tunnel projects are being handled separately. WPCA - Viper G70 70CFM-125PSI Air Compressor On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Spino, the City Council, herein acting as the Water Pollution Control Authority, voted unanimously to accept the recommendation of the WPCA Administrator and the Purchasing Agent to award the purchase of a Viper G70 GV3 70CFM-125 PSI, 24.9 EFI Gas Air Compressor to Universal Body and Equipment of Watertown, CT, in the amount of $11,408.20, to be paid from Fund #0030-8888-5350.0000, as further explained in the WPCA Administrators memo dated August 11, 2025. Councilor Ivain asked for a description, and Mr. Tousey explained that the air compressor is a replacement for the collection crew’s truck-mounted unit, as the existing one is more than 15 years old and no longer functional. He noted that the City issued two bid requests before obtaining three proposals, ultimately selecting the lowest. WAN Connections for City Hall, Police & Fire On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Spino, the Council voted unanimously to authorize the IT Department to update the current Wide Area Network (WAN) data connections between City Hall, Fire Headquarters, and Police Headquarters to Frontier’s ELAN service, as offered under State of Connecticut contract #18PSX0025AB, as further explained in the IT Director's memo dated August 13, 2025. Councilor Spino inquired about a potential cost increase, and Mr. Crowley confirmed that the total would rise by $200 per month. While individual connections are less expensive, the City is using this opportunity to upgrade the ELAN circuit at the firehouse from 200 megabits to 1 gigabit, bringing all sites onto the same technology. Motion Failed - Tax Abatement Request: 44 Battell Street On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Waldron, the Council unanimously voted against approving the request of “1355 East Main St, LLC” for a tax abatement on certain real property located at 44 Battell Street, in accordance with the City of Torrington’s Tax Incentive Policy, as described in the Economic Development Director’s letter dated August 18, 2025. Councilor Spino asked how this property qualifies for a tax abatement. Mr. Wallach explained that the property qualifies under two categories, one of which is as a warehouse. Councilor Spino questioned whether it met the warehouse criteria under State Statute. Councilor Ruwet strongly opposed the abatement, noting that the property is a storage unit on prime East Main Street and that there has been public concern about such a use in that location. She stated she would vote no. Councilor Ivain questioned the abatement, noting that these incentives are typically granted for job creation, increased business flow, or attracting new clients. Mr. Wallach explained that the project redeveloped a largely abandoned property and that the tax abatement helps incentivize developers by offsetting operational costs during the period between completion and full occupancy. He provided a breakdown of projected tax revenue with and without abatement, showing a potential $600,000 difference over the 10 years. He also clarified that one qualifying category is revitalizing underutilized or abandoned properties and that not all categories apply to every project. He emphasized that his letter was a recommendation based on eligibility. Councilor Cavagnero stated he was not inclined to approve the abatement, feeling it primarily benefits an existing successful business and could be seen as unfair to other Torrington taxpayers. He expressed a preference for abatements supporting new businesses facing startup challenges. Mayor Carbone acknowledged her reservations, citing the lack of job creation and the property’s desirable commercial location. Mr. Wallach contrasted this project with the Lunar Brook assisted living project, which addressed a significant community need and helped offset costs during vacancy. Councilor Ivain countered that the abatement could still help retain development in the City rather than losing it to other locations, providing a potential long-term benefit for Torrington. MINUTES Vol 27, Page 583 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 Table: Revolving Loan Fund Authorization – Vinny’s Restaurant On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Waldron, the Council voted unanimously to open for discussion the vote to authorize the Mayor to accept the Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) application and enter into an RLF contract with Seferi Properties, LLC, for up to $169,000 to cover the remaining costs for completing the Vinny’s Restaurant Brownfield Project, as further explained in the Economic Development Director’s memo dated August 18, 2025. Councilor Spino asked about the loan terms and interest rate. Mr. Wallach replied that the terms had not yet been finalized but anticipated an interest rate of approximately 3% for a short-term bridge loan. He added that a lower rate could be considered for quicker repayment. Mayor Carbone noted that the City would provide the loan from its Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), which has been replenished over the past ten years, allowing for new loans. She confirmed that the property owner would be responsible for repaying the loan to the City. Councilor Cavagnero stated that this represents a smart and appropriate use of City funds to encourage Economic Development. Councilor Spino reiterated that she would like to know the specific loan terms before casting a vote. On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ruwet, the Council voted unanimously to table the vote to authorize the Mayor to accept the Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) application and enter into an RLF contract with Seferi Properties, LLC, for up to $169,000 to cover the remaining costs for completing the Vinny’s Restaurant Brownfield Project, as further explained in the Economic Development Director’s memo dated August 18, 2025. Councilor Ruwet left the meeting at 7:14 p.m. Resolution #143-276 - Zeller Assessment Project (52 Norwood St) On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution #143-276, authorizing the Mayor to apply to the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) for Round 22 Municipal Brownfield Assessment-Only Grant for the Zeller Property Assessment Project at 52 Norwood Street for $200,000. Councilor Ivain requested clarification on the property site. Mr. Wallach explained that it was part of the former Torrington Standard Plant, historically used for tire storage and retreading, with nearly a century of industrial activity and associated environmental contamination. He noted that Phase One and Phase Two assessments conducted in 2010 indicated that further evaluation was needed before any remediation could occur. Mr. Wallach added that the property owner, the Zeller family, does not plan to reuse the building and is considering constructing tire storage facilities elsewhere. He explained that the upcoming assessment work will help determine potential redevelopment options. *See addendum #2* Resolution #143-277 - Stone-Hendy Property (200 Litchfield St) On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution #143-277, authorizing the Mayor to apply to DECD for a Round 22 Municipal Brownfield Remediation and Limited-Assessment Grant for the Stone-Hendy Property Remediation Project for $6,000,000. Councilor Ivain asked whether the grant applied to the entire property off Summer Street. Mr. Wallach clarified that the grant applies to two properties: 105 Summer Street and 200 Litchfield Street. He explained that extensive environmental assessments were conducted in 2010 and 2017, and that the building at 200 Litchfield Street alone had estimated abatement costs of $1 million in 2017. He noted that $6 million is the current maximum for brownfield grant applications. Councilor Ivain inquired about the types of contaminants found. Mr. Wallach responded that the primary contaminants are common in industrial sites, including PCBs and PFAS, so-called “forever chemicals”, which are costly to test and remediate. Councilor Cavagnero asked how the $6 million would be used. Mr. Wallach explained that the funds are designated for the abatement of asbestos, lead paint, and PCBs in building materials, as well as other remediation efforts—not demolition. The objective is to prepare the property for either redevelopment or, if necessary, demolition for future use. Attorney Magistrali provided an update on foreclosure actions for both properties. He stated that each has blight liens approaching $500,000 and noted that there are no outstanding mortgages. The owners, two separate LLCs with the same principal, would need to pay off the liens to regain ownership. He further explained that the owners have defaulted by failing to appear, which complicates the process and may cause delays; however, the City anticipates acquiring ownership through strict foreclosure. Mr. Wallach noted that the City’s pursuit of the grant is anticipatory, aligned with the foreclosure proceedings and the property’s identification as a potential site for a future Public Safety Complex. Mayor Carbone noted that the City has monitored the property for over eight years and had previously returned funds due to the former owner’s lack of cooperation. She emphasized that the State is aware of the property and the City’s commitment to addressing it. Its strategic location along the railroad tracks and in the downtown area makes it a key site for Torrington’s future development. *See addendum #3* MINUTES Vol 27, Page 584 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 Resolution #143-278 - Activate Main Street BAR Planning On a motion by Councilor Ivain, seconded by Councilor Spino, the Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution #143-278, authorizing the Mayor to apply to DECD for a Round 22 Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Planning Grant for the Activate Main Street BAR Planning Project for $200,000 and to commit $20,000 in matching funds from the City of Torrington Brownfield Capital Projects fund. Councilor Ivain requested an overview, and Mr. Wallach explained that this initiative continues the City’s successful Brownfield Strategy. He noted that prior BAR grants have supported completed projects, new housing units, job creation, increased tax revenue, and greater developer interest. Mr. Wallach outlined the boundaries of the Activate Main Street area and highlighted additional sites, which include five active and 5–7 potential brownfields. He said the goal is to maximize redevelopment opportunities by connecting assessment work with market studies. He also emphasized that the grant includes a strong public engagement component to gather community input. Mayor Carbone added that the State has been impressed with Torrington’s effective use of prior BAR funds, citing the City’s ability to plan strategically and deliver results. *See addendum #4* Building Department Report On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to accept the Building Department Report for the month of July 2025. Tax Collector Refunds On a motion by Councilor Waldron, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to accept the recommendation of the Tax Collector and authorize the tax refunds indicated on the list dated August 18, 2025. Sewer Usage Refunds On a motion by Councilor Waldron, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to accept the recommendation of the Tax Collector and authorize the sewer usage refunds indicated on the list dated August 18, 2025. Business by Dept. Heads On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to consider business by Department Heads. Economic Development Director William Wallach announced an annual economic development update on Thursday, August 21st, at 6 p.m. in the Auditorium. Corporation Counsel Michael Magistrali provided an extensive update on the Yankee Pedlar property litigation. He explained that the owner’s attorney recently filed a motion to terminate the receivership, temporarily delaying the receiver’s motion to sell. After two days of hearings, the court denied the request, which he described as a small victory. The hearing on the receiver’s motion to sell has been rescheduled for September 24, with Parker Benjamin, a firm experienced in redeveloping historic and factory buildings, identified as the proposed purchaser. The judge has expressed skepticism toward Jason Hospitality and its attorney while showing confidence in Mayor Carbone and the project manager. Jason Hospitality also filed a motion for property access, which the City opposed as moot. Mr. Magistrali expects the court to approve the sale, but cautioned that appeals could extend the litigation beyond the Mayor’s term. Councilor Cavagnero questioned why Jason Hospitality continues to prolong the process. Mayor Carbone said the City is uncertain but suggested it may be connected to a federal grant that could require repayment if the project remains unfinished. She emphasized that both the City and the Torrington Development Corporation (TDC) have invested considerable effort in the case. The TDC will provide a presentation on September 15, 2025, at the City Council Meeting on the use of blight funds for litigation and property stabilization. Business by Mayor & Members On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to consider business by the Mayor and City Council members. Councilor Cavagnero discussed the letter from Pullman & Comley regarding a proposed solar array project on 19.6 acres along West Hill Road. Mayor Carbone said feedback is due by October 4, 2025, and the City will submit a letter to the Siting Council opposing the project. The letter will cite concerns, including the City’s overburden of existing solar arrays, negative neighborhood impacts, reduced housing values, and loss of trees. Councilor Spino recommended that the Fire Department evaluate response times for emergencies at such a remote location, and that this be included in the objection. Councilor Ivain noted that the project would take agricultural land, opposed by the State Agricultural Commission, and recommended that the State develop guidelines to encourage farm-friendly solar use. MINUTES Vol 27, Page 585 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 Public Comment (in-person only) On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Waldron, the Council voted unanimously to open the meeting to the public to comment on agenda items only. Economic Development Director William informed the Council that a delegation will meet at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 21, 2025, and he reaffirmed support for CT Foodforthought’s $8 million CIF application for hydroponic agricultural work at Technology Park Drive. Adjournment On a motion by Councilor Spino, seconded by Councilor Ivain, the Council voted unanimously to adjourn at 8:01 p.m. Respectfully submitted by ATTEST: Heather Abraham, Asst. City Clerk CAROL L. ANDERSON, CITY CLERK CAROL L. ANDERSON, CITY CLERK Addendum #1: MINUTES Vol 27, Page 586 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 Addendum #2: MINUTES Vol 27, Page 587 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 Addendum #3: MINUTES Vol 27, Page 588 CITY COUNCIL & WPCA REGULAR MEETING City Hall Auditorium / Zoom August 18, 2025 Addendum #4: