WATERFORD, CT — The Waterford Board of Police Commissioners voted July 13 to extend a conditional employment offer to a police officer candidate and heard renewed concerns from residents about speeding on Oswegatchie Road.
During public input, resident Bob Lane challenged the Waterford Police Department's conclusions from a recent traffic study conducted on Oswegatchie Road near Josan Drive. Lane said the study, which followed a complaint he and his wife submitted in May, understated the extent of speeding because it relied on average vehicle speeds rather than the percentage of drivers exceeding the posted speed limit. He submitted a written statement signed by dozens of neighbors and additional correspondence supporting his position.
According to documents included with the meeting materials, the police department's traffic study found average vehicle speeds were generally at or below the posted 30 mph speed limit and that speed-feedback radar signs reduced operating speeds. The department concluded there was limited engineering justification, based on speed data alone, to reduce the speed limit to 25 mph. The study also reported higher compliance with the posted speed limit when radar feedback signs were activated.
The commission unanimously approved requests to install "Blind Child" warning signs on Laurel Crest Drive and "Blind Person" warning signs near 73 Spithead Road following recommendations from Traffic Officer Michael Devine.
Commissioners also received the department's June reports covering K-9 operations, youth services, investigations, training, support services, patrol, animal control and community engagement.
Under new business, the board discussed and signed a letter to the Representative Town Meeting moderator regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement access to individuals in police custody. A letter included with the meeting materials states the Waterford Police Department provided ICE access to zero individuals between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2026.
The board entered executive session at 5:26 p.m. to conduct police officer candidate interviews with Chief David Ferland present. Commissioners returned to open session at 6:20 p.m., reporting no votes or actions had been taken during the executive session.
Following the executive session, the board unanimously approved extending a conditional offer of employment to Alexander Wojcik for the department's current vacancy, contingent on successful completion of the hiring process and a background investigation.
The meeting adjourned at 6:21 p.m.
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