Monroe Approves Playground, Other Projects For Tax Program

MONROE, CT — The Town Council voted in favor of approving sponsorship for three projects under the Neighborhood Assistance Act.

The Monroe Playground Foundation, Monroe Food Pantry and Conservation and Water Resources Commission got approval for the projects.

Businesses under the program can receive a 60 percent tax credit for their Connecticut tax bill by donating to the causes.

The playground proposal took input from local children on what they would like in a community playground, which included access for those in wheelchairs. Foundation chairperson Dan Keane told the Town Council that the total cost of the project is estimated to be $400,000 and the foundation hopes to have it done by spring 2020, according to meeting minutes. They have raised $55,000 so far.

The Monroe Food Pantry was granted access by the Town Council for the program to help them with their ongoing mission. The pantry served 191 low income families last year.

Conservation and Water Resources Commission members got approval for NAA for a pollinator garden, which opened in June 2018. The garden helps people plant native plants and shrubs to aid in pollination. The commission is looking to use funds to maintain its operation and offer more education.