Newtown Legislative Council Approves Contractor Insurance Policy, Advances Capital Projects Toward Referendum

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Legislative Council approved an updated contractor insurance requirements policy and advanced several major capital projects toward a voter referendum during its Feb. 4 meeting.

The council voted unanimously to adopt a revised Contractor Insurance Requirements Policy, following a motion by council member Keith Alexander and a second by Ben Ruben. The policy updates insurance coverage standards and indemnification requirements for contractors working for the town or town-insured organizations.

Council members also voted unanimously to send multiple capital improvement projects to referendum as part of the town’s 2026–27 Capital Improvement Plan. Finance Director Glenys Salas explained that projects exceeding $1.5 million and funded by bonds require voter approval, while those funded through capital and non-recurring funds, grants or donations do not.

Projects approved for referendum include $2.3 million for HVAC upgrades to the high school’s F, C and D wings and $3.2 million for the Capital Road Program, totaling approximately $5.5 million.

Several other projects, including athletic field improvements, library parking upgrades and bridge replacements, will move forward through special appropriations or other funding mechanisms.

Earlier in the meeting, auditors from MahoneySabol presented the results of the town’s fiscal year 2025 audit. Michael VanDeventer, a partner with the firm, reported that the town received unmodified “clean” opinions on its financial statements and compliance with federal and state grant requirements. Auditors identified one significant internal control deficiency related to grant revenue recognition and reconciliation, which town management has addressed through a corrective action plan. Prior audit findings were not repeated.

Council Chair Laura Miller also announced committee updates, including the appointment of Ed Paradis as temporary chair of the Education Committee and continued work by the Charter Revision Commission, which has reviewed more than two dozen items and consolidated several proposals.

Resident emails entered into the record raised concerns regarding public participation at Inland Wetlands Commission meetings and requested expanded opportunities for comment. Additional correspondence addressed traffic enforcement, transparency, and automated traffic cameras, which Miller said would be forwarded to the appropriate committees.

First Selectman Bruce Walczak reported on progress toward a final agreement for the redevelopment of the former Fairfield Hills power plant, noting that approvals from multiple boards are still required. He also said the town is exploring grant opportunities related to water infrastructure.

The council adjourned at 9:42 p.m.