Ridgefield Selectpersons Advance FY27 Budget, Set May Town Meeting

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Board of Selectpersons on April 8 approved a series of budget-related resolutions, advanced a town meeting for early May and addressed several policy and operational issues, including a proposed pet memorial, radio station guidelines and questions about food truck regulations.

Board advances FY27 budget to voters

The board unanimously approved multiple resolutions tied to the fiscal year 2026–27 budget, including a $55.1 million town operating and debt service budget and a $123.8 million Board of Education budget, both of which will be presented to voters.

Members also approved a series of bonding resolutions covering capital projects across town departments, including road work, equipment purchases, school upgrades and public safety improvements.

The board voted to call the annual town meeting for May 4 at the Ridgefield Playhouse, where voters will consider the budget and related appropriations.

Appointments, reappointments approved

The board unanimously reappointed members to the Commission on Accessibility and the Commission on Aging, citing continuity and collaboration between the two groups.

Related: Ridgefield Board of Finance Backs Lower School Budget Increase, Finalizes Capital and Town Spending

Commission members emphasized joint efforts on senior services, accessibility initiatives and transportation planning, including a pilot ride program. They also highlighted outreach efforts such as monthly “Senior Voices” forums and expanded participation in a senior discount program known as the “Gold Card.”

Proposal for pet memorial advances

The board approved moving forward with a memorandum of understanding for a proposed pet memorial, which would allow residents to install commemorative plaques.

Officials said the project would be privately funded and maintained, with no direct financial obligation for the town. Board members discussed potential demand and future expansion if the memorial becomes popular but agreed the concept could proceed, subject to further design review and approvals.

Volunteer firefighters to receive fuel reimbursement

The board approved reimbursing the volunteer fire department for fuel used while responding to incidents and directing traffic, particularly during extended winter operations.

Officials said the reimbursement reflects fuel consumed while vehicles idle on scene and supports volunteers who use personal or department vehicles during emergency responses.

Radio station guidelines adopted

Selectpersons adopted updated broadcasting guidelines for the town’s proposed local radio station, adding provisions for a three-member advisory board to oversee community standards.

Related: Ridgefield Expands Veterans Tax Break, Advances Local Radio Station Plan

The guidelines outline expectations for on-air conduct and provide a framework for handling complaints or violations, with the advisory board serving as a review body when issues arise.

Food truck rules prompt discussion

Board members raised questions about enforcement of the town’s food truck ordinance after a business owner sought to expand beyond a single truck at a private property location.

Officials said the current ordinance allows multiple permits for a single primary use but lacks a clear cap, prompting discussion about whether revisions may be needed to limit the number of trucks and address concerns from local restaurants.

Town finances, development updates

First Selectperson Rudy Marconi reported the town remains on solid financial footing, with revenues exceeding expectations and expenses below projections.

March property sales totaled more than $36.7 million, with an average sale price above $1.18 million, making it "a great month for closings," Marconi said.

See Also: Ridgefield Outperforms State And Nation On Unemployment, But Signs Of Softening Emerge

The first selectperson also said the town is reviewing a potential nonprofit purchase of a Route 7 property that could remove it from the tax rolls, pending evaluation by the assessor.

Executive session added

The board voted at the start of the meeting to add an executive session to discuss pending litigation and a potential land acquisition related to preservation efforts.