Stafford Selectmen Approve Road Work, Equipment Sales, and Appointments

STAFFORD, CT — The Stafford Board of Selectmen met Wednesday evening and moved forward on several town business items, including paving plans, equipment disposals and multiple board appointments.

First Selectman William Morrison called the regular meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Center. Selectmen Tim Cromwell and Anthony Armelin were also present, establishing a quorum.

The board unanimously approved the minutes from its Dec. 3, 2025 meeting.

Police Overview

Stafford Resident Trooper Sgt. Kyle Cormier briefed the selectmen on the Resident Trooper Town program. He noted staffing includes five full-time and two part-time officers and reported completing a $50,000 ARPA Rural Road grant with the department conducting 1,620 traffic stops over two years and collecting 189 pounds of unwanted pharmaceuticals. Calls for service in 2025 totaled 7,665, with local officers handling about 80 percent.

Tax Abatement Denied

The board revisited a previously tabled request for a tax abatement for day-care businesses. Cromwell said he was “concerned with the budgetary constraints” and Armelin said giving abatements to business entities without state support was not fiscally sound. Armelin moved to deny the request, a motion seconded by Cromwell and approved unanimously.

Small Business Maker Space Proposal

Resident Ryan Hannigan outlined a concept for a small business maker space at the former Staffordville School. He proposed leasing two rooms for his textile and sewing business, and Morrison said he would continue discussions on the idea.

Hampden Road Paving Contract

Director of Public Works John Whetton presented three paving bids for Hampden Road. Based on cost, scope and contract clarity, the board approved moving forward with Galasso Materials LLC.

Obsolete Equipment Sales

The selectmen unanimously agreed to authorize the disposal of obsolete equipment from the Department of Public Works and, separately, from the Board of Education according to recommendations presented.

Appointments Approved

The board confirmed several appointments:

• Marc Maynard to the Stafford Housing Authority (term through Jan. 31, 2031).
• Anthony Armelin and Scott Sugarman to the Family Services Advisory Board (terms to Mar. 1, 2027).
• Tracey Deleston and John Turnberg as alternates to the Economic Development Commission (terms to Jun. 30, 2027).
• Michael Lee Scott Jr. to the Arts Commission (term to Mar. 1, 2028).
• John Whetton to fill an unexpired term on the Water Pollution Control Authority (through Oct. 15, 2026).

Transfers and Next Steps

The board approved a Parks Department transfer request and agreed to forward it to the Board of Finance for further review. Morrison noted staff absences and encouraged residents to contact his office for assistance.