Ridgefield Expands Veterans Tax Break, Advances Local Radio Station Plan

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Board of Selectpersons on March 18 unanimously approved an expansion of a local property tax exemption for disabled veterans, while also advancing plans for a community-based radio station and taking action on several appointments and municipal items.

Veterans tax exemption expanded

The board voted unanimously to extend an existing tax exemption for 100 percent service-connected disabled veterans to include up to two acres of land associated with their homes.

Town Assessor Al Garzi said 14 residents currently qualify for the exemption on their dwellings, totaling about $171,000 in tax relief. Including land would add roughly $100,000 more.

Under state law, municipalities may exempt up to two acres of land, but no more. Garzi said the additional relief would be applied proportionally for properties larger than two acres.

The cost will be treated as a reduction in revenue rather than a direct budget expense, officials said.

Selectpersons opted to approve the change directly rather than send it to a town meeting, citing broad anticipated public support.

Lease assignment approved for local radio station

The board also approved the assignment of a long-term lease for a radio transmission tower at the town’s recycling center to a nonprofit group seeking to operate local station WAXB.

Andy Gladding, representing the group, said the goal is to create a “community collaboration” featuring local news, events and programming driven by Ridgefield residents.

“This is an opportunity for the community to have access to the airwaves,” Gladding said.

The board conditioned approval on the development of community standards and operating guidelines, to be submitted in the coming weeks. Officials emphasized the importance of avoiding inflammatory or non-factual content and maintaining a community-focused mission.

The station could begin broadcasting within about a month of final approvals, according to Gladding.

Appointments and community updates

The board reappointed Peter Nichols to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Nichols highlighted ongoing projects, including new pickleball courts and maintenance of the town’s rail trail.

Maureen Kozlark moved to approve the reappointment of Jim Yavenditti, Denise Qualey, Tina Malhotra and Al Wakin to the Youth Commission, where officials reported continued focus on student-led programming, including a recent webinar on civil discourse and ongoing mental health initiatives.

Boys & Girls Club receives town vehicle

In a separate vote, the board agreed to donate a town-owned accessible van to the Ridgefield Boys & Girls Club.

Officials said the vehicle, originally acquired through a grant, will help expand transportation for youth programs, including services for children with mobility needs.

Other actions

• The board approved a referral to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a proposed sidewalk along Danbury Road, funded through a grant.
• A seasonal vendor license for Michael Principi, owner of Chez Lenard Sidewalk Cafe & Catering, was renewed.
• The board approved a new mission, vision and values statement for the Ridgefield Fire Department.

Emerging concerns: proposed heliport near town line

At the close of the meeting, First Selectperson Rudy Marconi raised concerns about a proposed private heliport just across the New York border in Lewisboro.

Marconi said Ridgefield officials were not notified of the proposal, which could route helicopter traffic over town open space and residential areas.

Town officials plan to consult legal counsel and explore options to respond before an upcoming hearing in New York.

Next steps

The board will continue budget discussions with the Board of Finance and hold a public hearing on the proposed budget in the coming week.