FISCAL YEAR 2023 ANNUAL REPORT (PDF)_Part1

Town of Waterford, 
Connecticut 
 
 
 
 
ANNUAL REPORT 
For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2023 

TOWN OF WATERFORD 
ELECTED TOWN OFFICIALS 
2022 – 2023 
FIRST SELECTMAN 
Robert J. Brule 
BOARD OF SELECTMEN 
Greg Attanasio 
Rich Muckle 
TOWN CLERK 
 
David L. Campo 
TAX COLLECTOR 
Alan Wilensky 
REGISTRARS OF VOTERS 
Bigi Ebbin 
Patricia Waters 
TREASURER 
Abbas Danesh 
BOARD OF EDUCATION 
Marcia A. Benvenuti 
 
Pat Fedor, Chair 
Kathleen Elbaum 
Joy Gaughan 
Amanda Gates-LaMothe 
Craig Merriman 
Chris Jones 
Deborah Roselli-Kelly 
Malinda Stone 
BOARD OF FINANCE 
Ronald Fedor 
Kevin Petchark 
Joe Filippetti  
John W. Sheehan 
Glenn Patterson, Chair 
Robert J. Tuneski 
David Peabody  
BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS 
Lee Couture 
 
Jerry Porter 
Catherine Lynn Gonyo 
John Morgan 
Marilyn Lusher, Chair 
David Peabody  
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS 
Anne Darling 
Catherine Lynn Gonyo, Chair 
Michele Kripps 
Warren Mackenzie 
John Morgan 
ALTERNATES 
Greg Gallup 
William Herzfeld 
Jason Maryeski 
1

REPRESENTATIVE TOWN MEETING 
2022 – 2023 
First District 
Condon, Timothy 
Gauthier, Nicholas 
Holmes, Richard 
Kahn, Lindsay 
Larder, Cheryl 
Steward-Gelinas, Danielle 
Second District 
Augmon-Bossa, Kyrah 
Childs, Mary 
Girard, Kevin 
Gonzalez, Kristin 
Olynciw, Theodore 
Welch, Dave 
Third District 
Barcciale, Jennifer 
Colonis, Harry 
Fioravanti, Timothy 
Garvin, Steve 
Goldstein, Paul 
Healy, Ryan 
Kohl, Jennifer 
Fourth District 
Bono, Michael 
Dembek, Thomas 
Driscoll, Susan 
Radin, Daniel 
Rocchetti, Michael E. 
Sugrue, David 
SENATOR 
20TH Senatorial District: Martha Marx 
REPRESENTATIVE 
38TH Assembly District: Kathleen McCarty 
2

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 
2022 – 2023 
BUILDING BOARD OF APPEALS 
Albaine, Jose-Miguel 
Dinoto, Russell, Chair 
Holmwood, Courtney 
Rowe, Sean 
Vacant 
CONSERVATION COMMISSION 
Keatley, Matthew 
Kriet, Keith 
Lersch, David L. 
Maidelis, Talivadis 
Muckle, Richard, Chair 
Renegar, Geneva 
Thomas, Wade M. 
Alternates: 
Plis, Ivy 
Bray, III.,  George “Bud” 
Wainscott, Julie 
METROCAST CABLE TELEVISION 
ADVISORY COUNCIL 
 
Merriman, Craig 
Robillard, Jeffrey 
Vacant 
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 
COMMISSION  
Aledia, Edward 
Buscetto III,  Michael  
Lusher, Edward A. 
Mullen-Kohl, Kathleen 
Russo, Guy 
Vacant 
Alternates: 
Gonyo, Catherine Lynn 
Greco, Julie  
3

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 
2022 – 2023 
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 
Sinagra, Steve 
ADVISORY COUNCIL 
 
Cote, J. William “Bill” 
Dembek, Thomas J. 
Mancini, Joseph 
Goodhind, Todd 
Schneider, Gary 
Balestracci, Marc 
Margolis, Mitchell S. 
Howley, Michael 
Pawlak, Erik 
Sabilia, Elizabeth  
Sheehan, John 
Shewbrooks, Bruce 
Brule, Robert J. 
Wiseman, Neil 
ETHICS COMMISSION 
Helvig, Paul 
Messier, Alan 
Nailon, Christopher 
Ritter, Elizabeth B. (Betsy), Chair 
Stone, Adam 
Wolfley, Laurie 
Alternates:  
Mendelovicz, Naomi 
FIRE COMPANIES 
Waterford Fire Engine Company #1, Inc. (Jordan) 
89 Rope Ferry Road 
Chief: Deputy Chief Bill Grace 
Quaker Hill Fire Company, Inc. 
17 Old Colchester Road 
Chief: Vincent Ukleja 
Goshen Fire Department, Inc. 
63 Goshen Road 
Chief: Todd Patton 
Oswegatchie Fire Company #4, Inc. 
441 Boston Post Road 
Chief: Christopher Pafias 
Cohanzie Fire Company #5, Inc. 
53 Dayton Road 
Chief: John Mariano 
4

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 
2022 – 2023 
FLOOD AND EROSION 
Callahan, Christopher L. 
CONTROL BOARD 
Harran, George R. 
Hart, Craig 
Kohl, Jennifer, Vice Chair 
Kuvalanka, Alexander 
Vacant 
Vacant 
HARBOR MANAGEMENT 
Adams, Jane B., Chair 
COMMISSION  
Buths, Jr., Joseph  
DeRosa, Robert 
Dutton, Robert F. 
Hamsher, James J. 
Hughes, John 
Jamroga, John 
Wise, Fred 
Alternates: 
Crocker, Gregory 
Vacant 
HARBOR MASTER 
Crocker, David 
DEPUTY HARBOR MASTER 
Miller, Richard 
HISTORIC PROPERTIES 
COMMISSION  
Crotty, Patrick 
Olynciw, Eileen 
O’Neill, John J., Chair 
Pezzolesi, Justin 
Walters, Debra T. 
Alternates: 
MacKenzie, Warren 
Guarnieri, Melissa 
MUNICIPAL HISTORIAN  
Nye, Robert M. 
PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD 
Bowens Browder, Stephane 
Chuchev, Krum 
Maidelis, Talivadis 
Mullen-Kohl, Kathleen 
Wells, Rikki W., Chair 
5

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 
2022 – 2023 
PLANNING AND ZONING 
Barnett, Karen 
COMMISSION  
Bleasdale, Timothy 
Conderino, Timothy 
Ebersole, Jr., Victor 
Massad, Gregory, Chair 
Alternates: 
Chenard, Bertrand 
Crum, Doris 
Joseph DiBuono 
POLICE COMMISSION 
Dimmock, James A. 
Gamble, Christopher M. 
Gelinas, Mark R. 
Sheridan, Thomas, Chair 
Brule, Robert J. 
RECREATION AND PARKS 
Beaney, Lucas  
COMMISSION 
Chiappone, Melissa 
Erricson, Rich 
Gregg, James 
Gwudz, Megan 
Murphy, Edward K. 
Santos, Traci 
Scheiber, Nan  
Stino, Taylor 
 
RETIREMENT COMMISSION 
Dimmock, James 
Driscoll, Susan, Chair 
Finnegan, Linda 
Goldstein, Paul 
Merriman, Craig 
Petchark, Kevin 
Brule, Robert J. 
SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE 
Dembek, Thomas 
Koning, John 
Muckle, Richard, Chair 
Nazarchyk, Jody 
Norton, James W. 
O’Leary, Liam 
Reid, James  
6

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 
2022 – 2023 
SENIOR CITIZENS COMMISSION 
Beaney, Richard 
Collins, Anita M. 
Darling, Anne A. 
Lopes, Dina G. 
McNamara, Kathleen A.  
Rissi, MD., Daniel 
Sanders, Carol Lee, Chair 
Vlaun, Joyce M. 
WATERFORD/EAST LYME 
Waterford Members: 
SHELLFISH COMMISSION 
Benvenuti, Marcia 
Kelly, Patrick J., Vice-Chair 
Tytla, Lawrence 
Wise, Fred 
East Lyme Members: 
Bowlen, Thomas 
Harris, Peter, Chair 
Kanter, Eric N.  
Spakowski, Paul 
WATERFORD SHELLFISH 
Calkins, Chris 
COMMISSION  
Drennen, Raymond 
Francolino, Thomas J 
Healy, Ryan 
Jamroga, John 
Lawson, Douglas W., Chair 
Alternates: 
Porter, Jerry 
Vacant  
Vacant 
SOUTHEASTERN CT REGIONAL 
Schneider, Gary 
RESOURCES RECOVERY AUTHORITY 
Matheson, Daniel 
UTILITY COMMISSION 
Dembek, Thomas  
Kirkman, Kenneth, Chair 
Negri, Stephen J. 
Pinkham, Rodney A. 
Valentini, Raymond L. 
7

   BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 
2022 – 2023 
YOUTH SERVICE BUREAU 
Brule, Robert J. 
ADVISORY COUNCIL 
 
Balestracci, Marc 
Buscetto, III., Michael, Chair 
Cash, Sheila  
Cristofaro, Michael  
Dunkerly, Jordan 
Elbaum, Kathleen 
Filippetti, Joseph 
Gorman, Dani, Director  
Lane, Dan 
McNamara, Erin 
McNamara, Ryan 
Muckle, Chris 
Mullane, Alison  
Ryan, Gene 
Sachatello, Lisa 
Smith, Brianna 
Smith, Jennifer 
Trelli, Joe 
Valentine, Davonta 
8

PROFESSIONAL STAFF 
2023 – 2024 
Assessor 
Paige Walton 
Building Official  
Steven Cardelle 
Chief of Police  
Marc Balestracci 
Emergency Management Director 
Steven Sinagra 
Finance Director 
Kimberly Allen 
Fire Services Director 
 
Michael Howley 
Fire Marshal 
 
Stephen Dubicki 
Human Resources Director 
Christine Walters 
Ledge Light Health District Director 
Jennifer Muggeo 
Library Director  
Christine Johnson 
Planning Director 
Jonathan Mullen 
Planner  
Mark A. Wujtewicz 
Public Works Director  
Gary Schneider 
Recreation and Parks Director  
Ryan McNamara 
Senior Services Director and  
Daniela Gorman, Interim Director 
Municipal Agent for the Elderly 
Superintendent of Schools 
Thomas Giard, III 
Town Counsel  
Nick Kepple 
Utility Director  
James Bartelli 
Youth Services Director  
Daniela Gorman 
Zoning Official  
Wayne Scott 
9

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10

Last Name
First Name
Address
Town
State
Zip Code
DEM
REP
UNAFF
Attanasio
Gregory
229 Bloomingdale Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
D
Balestracci
Marc
41 Avery Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Barnard
Catherine
182 Niantic River Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Barnard
Margaret
183 Niantic River Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Barry
Lisa
5 Gunshot Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Bendfeldt
Joan
2 B Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Bendfeldt
Peter
2 B Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Browder
Stephane
12 Two Mile Hill Rd
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Brule
Robert
15 Leary Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Bustamante
Esmeralda
2 Best View Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
D
Cairns
April
30 Old Colchester Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
R
Cairns
Kacey
30 Old Colchester Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
R
Campo
David
3 Colonial Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Chuchev
Krum
55 Colonial Dr
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Collins
Billy
9 Farmstead Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Craft
Robert
52 Fourth Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
U
Cramer
Edward
22 Alewife Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Darling
Anne
132 Shore Road Apt. A
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Dinoto
Russell
38 Goshen Rd.
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Donovan
William
310 Boston Post Road Unit 88
Waterford
CT
06385
U
Doshna
Eric
10 Warwick Terrace
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Driscoll
Susan
205 Rope Ferry Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Dubose
Saundra
1 Best View Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
D
Filippetti
Joseph
11 Hillcrest Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Fine
Susan
20 Jordan Cove Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Finn
Joyce
24 Jordan Cove Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Fontaine
Wendy
13R Burlake Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
U
Friedman
Joshua
260 Great Neck Rd.
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Garcia-Gonzalez
Elizabeth
19 Boston Post Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Gardiner
Alan
75 Millstone Road West
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Gaughan
Joy
60 Douglas Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Gauthier
Nicholas
38 Norman Street
Waterford
CT
06385
D
11

Gelinas
Mark
92R Butlertown Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Gilman
Margaret
4 Reed Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Goldstein
Paul
34 Fifth Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Holt
Caroline
82 Longview Street Unit 24
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Jones
Christopher
14 Twin Lakes Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Kamishlian
John
3 Deborah Street
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Kane
Sean
PO Box 43
Waterford
CT
06385
U
Kanfer
Andrea
16 Baldwin Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Kirkman
Kenneth
344 Great Neck Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Kohl
Kathy
18 Oswegatchie Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Kuvalanka
Ivan
45 New Shore Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Lee
Lakisha
120 Old Norwich Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
D
Lewis
David
52 New Shore Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
MacKenzie
Kate
154 Old Norwich Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
R
MacKenzie
Warren
154 Old Norwich Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
R
Maidelis
Talivaldis
38 Beacon Hill Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Mallari
Sara
6 Reed Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Maryeski
Jason
4 Graham Street
Waterford
CT
06385
D
McCarty
Kathleen
226 Great Neck Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
McNeely
Alan
24 Jordan Cove Road
Waterford
CT
06385
U
Merriman
Calley
21 Louise Street
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Merriman
Craig
21 Louise Street
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Minner
James
75 Clark Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Muckle
Richard
864 Vauxhall Street Ext.
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
R
Negri
Stephen
2 Lanyard Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Nye
Ann
96 Rope Ferry Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Nye
Robert
96 Rope Ferry Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Olynciw
Mark
62 Twin Lakes Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Olynciw
Ted
62 Twin Lakes Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Ormond
Margaret
114 Butler Town Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Parise
Joseph
41 Devonshire Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Pezzolesi
Kristin
48 New Shore Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Plis
Ivy
21 Dimmock Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Provatas
Rita
36 Niantic River Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
12

Ritter
Elizabeth
24 Old Mill Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Rochester
Steven
1081 Hartford Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Roselli Kelly
Deborah
70 Oswegatchie Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Sabilia
Elizabeth
132 Oswegatchie Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Scarpa
Kenneth
108R Bloomingdale Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
R
Sheehan
John
19 Laurel Crest Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Sheridan
Thomas
318 Great Neck Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Stone
Malinda
16 Windy Ridge Place 
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Swanson
Gregg
119 Shore Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Vlaun
Joyce
12 Wallace Street
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Welch
Margaret
9 Farmstead Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Welch-Collins
Baird
9 Farmstead Lane
Waterford
CT
06385
D
West
Julie-Cherie
182 Oswegatchie Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
White
George
22 New Shore Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Wolfley
Laurie
15 Anita Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Yother
Elizabeth
226 Great Neck Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
13

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14

1 
 
 
 
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It continues to be an honor to serve the Town of 
Waterford as the First Selectman. To me, 
commitment is truly the most important piece of 
serving our community. I continue to value trust, 
communication, 
transparency, 
a 
sense 
of 
belonging and always putting the Waterford 
community first in my decision-making.  I am 
proud to work alongside Selectman Rich Muckle 
and Selectman Greg Attanasio and present the 
2023 Board of Selectmen Annual Report. 
In 2023, the BOS presented an operating budget 
with an increase of just 1.32%, consistent with previous budget increases of 1.25%, 
1.65% and 2.07%, respectfully.  The 5-year Capital Plan presented in 2023 
highlighted a “Snap Shot” which identified use from the General Fund Balance for 
capital projects with a focus on road paving, water utility, building maintenance and 
parks, which was well received from elected officials on both sides of the aisle.  
Waterford completed its state-mandated revaluation and saw a significant number 
of property values continue to climb.  The Grand List increased for the 8th 
consecutive year, a 30% increase.  Waterford continues to work closely with the 
Board of Finance and RTM to complete existing capital projects and initiate 
necessary town-wide capital infrastructure projects. The First Selectman will 
continue to provide the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance and the RTM 
quarterly updates to ensure consistent communication continues.    
Over the past year, First Selectman Brule served as Vice Chairman of the 
Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG) and a member of the 
Executive Committee for SCCOG and the Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT).  
In 2023, First Selectman Brule was selected and honored as a “First 100 Plus - Class 
of 2023” recipient by the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, for 
BOARD OF SELECTMEN 
2023 ANNUAL REPORT
ROBERT J. BRULE,  FIRST SELECTMAN 
RICH MUCKLE,  SELECTMAN 
GREG ATTANASIO,  SELECTMAN 
SHANNON WITHEY, EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 
(FROM R TO L) SELECTMAN GREG ATTANSIO, 
FIRST SELECTMAN ROBERT BRULE AND 
SELECTMAN RICHARD MUCKLE 

2 
 
demonstrated leadership and commitment to improving the lives of domestic 
violence survivors in Connecticut.  
Community Engagement 
The First Selectman’s Office remains committed 
to community engagement and accessibility to 
town parks and outdoor space.  The First 
Selectman’s “Waterford Cares” initiative started 
four years ago and continues with great participation by the community - to provide 
holiday meals to veterans and families in need.  It also includes creating and 
supporting community events in town, for example, Veterans ceremonies, holiday 
tree lightings, hosting a Diaper Bank drive, hosting food drives, Waterford Day 
Parade, trunk or treat, Town Coin presentations, Town Proclamation ceremonies, 
Honoring Scouts, and the American flag display from Memorial Day to Veterans 
Day.  The Town continues to commit to its veterans by hosting Memorial Day and 
Veterans Day Ceremonies through the First Selectman’s Office, as well as 
participating in Wreaths Across America every December.  These events honoring 
and remembering our Waterford Veterans remains a 
priority. The Waterford Veterans Coffeehouse continues 
to gain membership and attendance.  The Coffeehouse is 
held at Filomenas Restaurant in town and remains the 
largest attended Veterans Coffeehouse in Eastern CT.  
The First Selectman’s Office continues to sponsor the 
Waterford Veterans Day Ceremony, Memorial Day 
Ceremony and 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, as well 
as, Wreaths Across America at Jordan Cemetery.   
The 3nd Annual Waterford Day Parade continued this summer and was a huge 
success for residents of all ages! The Town of Waterford continues its strong 
relationship with the American Red Cross and has continued to host monthly blood 
drives at Town Hall. The town continued to partner with Ledge Light Health District, 
to provide residents vaccine clinic options and Covid-19 Test Kit distribution 
opportunities. In 2023, the Waterford Country School celebrated 100 years of 
service.  Congratulations!  The Waterford Country School employs 150 staff and sits 
on 320 acres of rural land. Every day, the WCS use of therapeutic animal interaction, 
nature based enrichment activities, hands on learning, and compassionate staff to 
change the growth trajectory for children and young adults. The Town of Waterford 

3 
 
remains a proud supporter of the Waterford Country 
School. The Eugene O’Neill Theater Center recently 
produced the musical “Shucked” which was a Tony 
Award winner in 2023!  Amazing accomplishment! The 
First Selectman remains a proud Ex-Officio member of 
the Board of Trustees at The O’Neill. The town’s efforts 
continue to focus on the campus’ capital needs, while 
ensuring the day-to-day maintenance of the buildings and grounds remain the 
O’Neill’s responsibility. The Town worked directly with the Diaper Bank of CT, 
Waterford resident Jennifer Kohl, and Waterford Human Service Administrator, 
Dani Gorman to create the First Selectman’s Diaper Bank Drive! The Diaper Bank 
Drive falls under the First Selectman’s Waterford Cares program, an initiative 
focused on addressing the day-to-day needs of all 
our residents, emotionally, financially, spiritually, 
and physically.  The turn out from the community 
and town employees was amazing and did not 
disappoint! Waterford continues to donate and 
deliver holiday meals to veterans and seniors in 
town, as well as, families in need.     
In 2023, the First Selectman’s Office participated in a town-wide, regional school 
crisis drill, which included all town departments and first responders. Also 
participating were school administrators, teachers, students, parents and community 
members in Quaker Hill.  The First Selectman signed two Inter-local Agreements on 
behalf of the Waterford Police Department.  The first was an agreement with the 
Town of Ledyard, creating the Southeastern Connecticut Special Response Team. 
The second was an agreement with the Town of East Lyme, creating the Shoreline 
Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team (START). This regional agreement is another 
example of Waterford working together with our neighbor East Lyme. The two 
towns currently partner on animal control services, a 
shared regional police boat and equally contributed 
funds to a new pump-out boat on the Niantic River 
for Save the River-Save the Hills. First Selectman 
Brule joined Mayor Keith Hedrick and Mayor 
Michael Passero in 2023 to support the annual 
Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water 
Conservation (Mayor’s Challenge). With no cost to 

4 
 
cities, towns or taxpayers, the Mayor’s Challenge offers a unique and compelling 
way to motivate residents to conserve water. 
In addition, the town remains committed to the success of the 
Waterford Fire Department as a “combination department. The First 
Selectman participated in active firefighter training to see first-hand 
how firefighters safely enter a burning building to prepare for the 
day when they are called upon. Waterford firefighters are placed in 
a position that requires them to handle extraordinary amounts of 
responsibilities when they become a part of this career. First, they 
will be placing themselves in harm’s way and taking risks to ensure 
the safety of others. While firefighters undergo extensive training as 
recruits, they need to develop or already have specific skills to 
perform their duties safely and effectively.  The First 
Selectman’s day of training included a debriefing session with 
a team of 12 firefighters by Captain Martin.  It then included 
entering a smoke-filled building on a 90-degree summer day to 
rescue a victim on the second floor, seeing nothing because of 
the smoke machine, wearing all the gear, carrying an ax, 
wearing an oxygen mask and feeling my way to the victim with 
my partner.    
Capital Projects 
As noted previously, in 2023, the 5-year capital plan 
reflected a “Snap-Shot” for the responsible and 
transparent use of the general fund balance for 
capital projects.  Thank you to the Board of 
Selectman and Board of Finance Chairman, Glenn 
Patterson, for your input and support in 2023.  The 
5-year capital plan will again reflect use of the 
general fund balance as to ensure operating budgets and impact on the tax rate 
remains stable.  Road paving projects will continue to have the Utility Commission 
replace all 30-year old plastic water connectors over to copper prior to road paving, 
eliminating the possibility of leaks forming under the newly paved roads. The First 
Selectman’s Office continues to communicate with the Superintendent of Schools 
and put forward an $800,000 capital project to replace the AC Chillers at Clark Lane 
Middle School. The First Selectman initiated a town-wide school and community 

5 
 
security upgrade capital project with input from leaders within 
the police, fire, emergency management, IT, finance and 
planning departments and the Superintendent. The $2M request 
for funding this school security project is the largest capital 
project for school and community safety the town has ever 
requested and been approved by the Board of Selectmen, Board 
of Finance and the Representative Town Meeting.  The 
Waterford Duck Pond dredging project was approved in 2023 
and saw the $900,000 dredging project completed in the fall, while the ADA 
pathways are still under construction.  Trees around the pond were removed due to 
Ash bore disease or root systems negatively impacting the project and will be 
replaced with new healthy trees that will be here for another 50 years!  The Town of 
Waterford completed the new concrete sidewalk within the Historic Jordan Village 
from B-Lane to Avery Lane with the help from a State 
of Connecticut grant, thereby, extending the connection 
to the Jordan Historic Village Green.  In 2023, the $1M 
approved road paving and reclamation project of Old 
Norwich Road in Quaker Hill became the largest road-
paving project the Town of Waterford approved in 
decades.  
Other Notable Capital Projects Completed in 2023: 
• The Public Safety Building (Emergency Management, Dispatchers and Fire 
Services) HVAC rooftop unit and roof replaced. 
• The Town Hall front door was replaced. 
• The $2.75M Cross Road (state-funded grant) Paving Project was closed. 
• The Southwest School underground septic tanks were removed.   
• The oil tanks at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center were removed.   
• The underground oil tank at the Police Department was removed.   
• The AC Units at Emergency Radio Sites were replaced.The $400,000 
Underground fuel tanks at the Public Safety Building and the Library were 
removed. 
• The Utility Commission initiated the replacement of 30-year old plastic water 
connectors with copper connectors prior to paving new roads. 
• Town paved Tiffany Avenue, Oil Mill Road, East Brook Drive, Shore Road, 
Cedar Street, Savi Avenue, Cherry Street and Niantic River Road.  

6 
 
Fleet Management Plan 
The Public Works Department and the Police Department fleet plans remain a 
priority.  As supply chain issues have occurred, the Town remains in good position 
to purchase the fleet necessary to keep our town safe and operating efficiently.  The 
Town continues to remove vehicles and equipment from the fleet in an effort to 
reduce the size of the fleet. The new Municipal Complex’s 70,000 square foot garage 
continues to keep our trucks and other fleet equipment inside and protected from the 
elements.  The First Selectman will continue to focus on Fleet Management, 
focusing on how many vehicles the Town has in its fleet, maintenance of vehicles to 
extend life and budgeting for large vehicle replacement when the time is needed.  
FY25 will see the Town committing funds for three large pieces of apparatus within 
Public Works, including a Sweeper for $348,209, a 5-ton Dump Truck for $276,695 
and a Side Load Refuse Truck for $391,997.  
Planning & Economic Development 
The Town of Waterford is proud to recognize Waterford 
resident 
and 
business 
owner, 
Cindy 
Hersom, 
President/Owner of Dicin Electric.  In 2023, Dicin 
Electric was honored by President Biden at the White 
House 
for being 
selected 
U.S 
Small 
Business 
Administration Sub-Contractor of the Year, for the entire 
country!  Congratulations Cindy, Chris and the entire 
Dicin Electric family for 50 years of dedicated service in town.   The Planning 
Department continues to be very busy with new business and the number of permit 
requests.  Over the past year, there continues to be commitment towards responsible 
economic development and our continued efforts to “fill empty storefronts” and 
attract new businesses to Waterford. In 2023, the Town welcomed M&T Bank to 
town in the old Webster Bank location and saw the closed Hendels Americana 
Furniture Barn space filled with Americana Fabrics, one of the largest online fabric 
stores in New England.  Posh Wash Carwash renovated and opened the carwash 
across from Job Lot. Long-time Waterford business Hillyers 
Tackle Shop was purchased and is under new ownership and 
the town saw Play it Again Sports renovated and open the 
space between Planet Fitness and Big Lots.  Many in town 
are excited to see Chipotle purchase the land near Aldi’s and 
the start of  construction, while the old Hess Gas Station 

7 
 
nearby was demolished to make room for a gas station 
and market at the same location.  The former Sunset Rib 
Restaurant in Mago Point was remodeled and opened 
for business under the new name Fat Tuna.  Graniteville 
Dentistry completed its construction and has moved 
into the vacant space in Utopia Centre. The first phase 
of the Waterford Woods Luxury Apartments Complex on Willets Avenue was 
completed.  This needed apartment housing development for young professionals in 
the area is a $100M project, and is on schedule to start Phase 2 in the spring of 2024. 
Waterford Woods includes a state of the art clubhouse and pool, rain gardens, 3-mile 
walking trail, pickleball courts, dog parks, community vegetable and herb gardens 
and garage units for additional storage for residents.  
The First Selectman, on behalf of the Economic Development Commission, attended 
the International Council of Shopping Centers National Convention in New York 
City.  During the convention he met with developers from around the country to 
discuss possibilities of development at the Crystal Mall property and the Airport 
property.   
The Town of Waterford proudly welcomed United 
States Assistant Secretary of Energy, Dr. Kathryn 
Huff and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Spent Fuel 
and Waste Disposition, Dr. Kim Petry, for a visit to 
Waterford and a tour of the Millstone Power Station. 
Discussions focused on the future of nuclear energy 
by the Biden Administration and my official 
testimony to the U.S House of Representatives supporting Congressman Courtney’s 
Consent-Based Siting of Interim Storage Legislation.  This important legislation 
supports the First Selectman’s commitment to the removal of dry cask storage from 
the Millstone Power Station.  
The Town of Waterford is currently completing the town’s Plan of Conservation and 
Development.  "Plan Waterford" is our Town’s guide for the future. It shows where 
we have been and lays out the vision for where we are going. Thank you to the staff 
and Planning & Zoning Commission for the effort put forward as we complete the 
final phases, including the online survey.   
 

8 
 
Budget Management 
The town continues to look for new economic 
development that will have long-term effects and will 
enhance our Net Taxable Grand List. For example, the 
town Board of Selectmen and RTM voted 
unanimously to support Dominion Energy’s interest 
in building data centers on its’ property.  In 2023, the 
First 
Selectman’s 
Office 
has 
had 
positive 
communication with all three owners of the Crystal 
Mall property.  The 40-home Ivy Hill Village residential project off Great Neck 
Road began construction in 2023.  This cul-de-sac built by Adams Builders will 
feature energy efficient, smaller homes with an  HOA that will take care of the lawn, 
trash and recycling and provide owners a nature walking trail. This newest 
residential cul-de-sac will allow homeowners to downsize in energy efficient 
“smaller homes” in the Great Neck area of town and grow the grand list. In 2023, 
the Town of Waterford enjoyed a mill rate decrease.  Over the past year, there has 
been a continued commitment to work closely with 
the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance and the 
Representative 
Town 
Meeting 
to 
ensure 
Departmental Budgets, Capital Spending and Fleet 
Management Plans are thoughtful, deliberate and 
transparent.  There has been a commitment to 
identify areas where Department Heads can find 
savings.   
The Town continues to prioritize a working budget for our town that supports first 
responders, critical services and level of education we enjoy in town, while 
minimizing the growth of the taxpayers’ burden. We have continued that philosophy 
with a minimal increase in the general government operating budget and updating 
job descriptions through the Human Resource 
Director, Commissions and the Program Review 
Board. The Town, like many of its’ neighboring 
communities, has seen a continuation of retirements 
by eligible employees.  There continues to be a focus 
placed on recruitment and retention of town 
employees, most notably, building officials, police 
officers and firefighters.  The town successfully 

9 
 
negotiated a 4-year Police Contract, a 4-year 1303 Labor 
Contract, and a 4-year GGA Labor Contract, ensuring 
responsible budgeting, retaining our talented workforce and 
providing department heads with predictable personnel 
budgets going into the next four annual operating budgets.  
A trend moving away from the traditional 2-year labor 
contracts and high labor counsel costs to the town. The 
town, like many of its neighboring towns, has seen a 
continuation of retirements by eligible employees.  There 
continues to be a focus placed on recruitment and retention 
of current employees.  Over the past year, the First 
Selectman’s Office worked with the Senior Service 
Commission, Human Resource Director, town labor counsel, the Youth & Family 
Services Advisory Council and the GGA union, to eliminate the Senior Service 
Director position and the Youth & Family Services Director position, and create one 
position, the Human Services Administrator.  The impact has been noticeable and 
positive. No longer does a family “fall in between the cracks” while a more positive 
experience occurs between residents and the town.  In 2023, the town saw Planning 
Director retire as well as the Fire Marshal. The town continues to absorb the 
aforementioned number of retirements of long-time town leaders and employees, 
yet, provide great opportunities and services for the residents. The Town leadership 
team remains committed to the growth and stability of the Town of Waterford. 
Waterford continues to grow and attract families and businesses to town.  We 
continue to have some of the largest retail shopping stores and plazas in southeastern 
CT and are home to two nuclear power plants.  These provide many benefits to our 
town.  We have more growth forecast for the town and look forward to planning that 
growth with the various builders and developers. Like so many of our neighboring 
communities, the year posed serious challenges due to supply chain issues and 
significant cost increases within capital expenses, adjusting to post-pandemic 
realities and the impact Electric Boat hiring thousands of highly compensated 
employees has had and will continue to have on the recruitment and retention of 
town employees. 
 
 
 
FIRST SELECTMAN BRULE AND 
CHIEF OF POLICE, MARC 
BALESTRACCI 

10 
 
American Rescue Plan Act 
All expected ARPA funding from the federal 
government has been received by the Town of 
Waterford ($5,547,889).  The allocation the 
Town of Waterford received from the American 
Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Plan to spend 
the funding was submitted to the RTM – 
appropriating the funding to emergency service upgrades, small businesses, tourism, 
mental health needs, water utility upgrades and maintenance and outdoor parks.  One 
adjustment to the Plan thus far, that being, the town-wide broadband was not an 
acceptable project by ARPA, due to Waterford not operating its own Utility.  As a 
result, these ARPA funds transferred to the Civic Triangle Park Capital Project, due 
to that Master Plan being already approved by the Civic Triangle Park Ad-Hoc 
Committee and all town bodies and consistent with the initial ARPA plan submitted 
to the town for approval.  
 
Projects completed with ARPA funds in 2023: 
• Small Business Grant Program 
• Hired Human Services Coordinator for Senior 
Services Department  
• 45 capital projects were completed for an 
approximate total of $6.1M 
 
Projects ongoing in 2024: 
• Waterford Park Pond ADA Pathways, Holm Memorial and Boardwalk 
• Waterford Park Streetscape – Along Rope Ferry Road 
• Waterford Park Playground ADA Pathways to Pond / Restrooms  
• Old Norwich Road Pump Station Upgrade 
• Fargo Lane Water (Tank) Tower Rehabilitation 
• Town GIS Updates 
• Eugene O’Neill Theater Hammond Mansion Roof Replacement 
 
 

11 
 
Conclusion 
The First Selectman is proud of the work we accomplished in a bi-partisan and 
professional manner in 2023 and remains committed to continuing positive, 
transparent and thoughtful discussions in the year ahead.  Finally, and sadly, The 
First Selectman would be remiss if he did not acknowledge the profound loss of 
former Selectwoman and running mate, Jody Nazarchyk.  Jody had an impact on the 
lives of countless Waterford residents this past year.  Jody was 
an amazing person and community member.  Her greatest gift 
was her love for her neighbor and her advocacy for veterans, 
seniors and children.  Jody is missed terribly by our 
community, however, her legacy lives on forever in 
Waterford.   

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32

Assessor's Office 
FY 2023-2024 
GL 2022 
Staff:  Paige Walton, Nicole Serra, Richard Messina 
The primary function of the Assessor's Office is the discovery listing and valuation of all taxable and 
tax-exempt property.  Three categories of property; real estate, motor vehicle and business personal 
property, comprise the grand list.  In compiling the annual grand list, office staff regularly reviews and 
inspects ongoing improvements made to real property, audits business personal property equipment and 
lists and values all vehicles located within the Town of Waterford as of the October 1st assessment date. 
The Assessor’s Office is also responsible for the administration of numerous state-mandated and local 
option tax exemptions and abatements such as the Tax Relief for the Elderly, Veterans, Blind and 
Disabled programs.  In addition to the appraisal, classification and recording of all property the 
Assessment division must analyze and properly reflect all property transfer and ownership changes in 
order to maintain an accurate and current database. 
In accordance with Connecticut statutes, the Assessor’s office must also oversee the periodic revaluation 
of all real property within the Town of Waterford to insure valuation uniformity by eliminating 
inequities that may have developed since the previous revaluation.  In collaboration with Vision 
Government Solutions Inc. the Assessor’s office successfully completed and implemented the state-
mandated 2022 revaluation, meeting all required state performance based testing standards.  Overall, 
residential properties experienced a median increase of 32% while commercial and industrial property 
values increased by 5.5%. 
Our goal is to perform responsible assessment, appraisal and administrative work to maintain an 
equitable distribution of the tax burden.  As well, we strive to ensure that computerized records are 
regularly and efficiently updated to permit prompt public access to data and to enable statutory and 
statistical revaluations to proceed proficiently.  This includes the maintenance of accurate tax/GIS maps, 
which requires processing and recording changes resulting from subdivision, assemblage, boundary 
agreements and surveys. 
The Assessment Department continues to incorporate various technological advances including online 
personal property declaration filings, as well as staff education, to improve our administrative processes 
and increase our efficiency in serving the public. 
Before corrections and Board of Assessment Appeals adjustments the 2022 Net Grand List totaled 
$4,544,279,712.  The Board of Assessment Appeals met throughout the month of April and reduced the 
Net Grand List by $10,196,355.  The final 2022 taxable net Grand List as reported to OPM was: 
$4,534,083,357 
33

2022 Grand List Summary: 
2022 GRAND LIST OF TAXABLE AND EXEMPT
TYPE OF ACCOUNT
# OF ACCOUNTS GROSS ASSESSMENT TOTAL EXEMPTIONS TOTAL NET VALUE
REAL ESTATE REGULAR
9058
3,268,258,671
$  
  
34,233,716
$  
   
3,234,024,955
$     
REAL ESTATE ELDERLY HOMEOWNER
212
36,691,240
$  
  
811,500
$  
   
35,879,740
$  
  
TOTAL REAL ESTATE TAXABLE
9270
3,304,949,911
$  
  
35,045,216
$  
   
3,269,904,695
$     
REAL ESTATE EXEMPT
300
357,764,340
$  
  
357,764,340
$  
  
-
$  
  
REAL ESTATE TOTALS
9570
3,662,714,251
$  
  
392,809,556
$  
  
3,269,904,695
$     
PERSONAL
1295
1,077,221,940
$  
  
29,186,376
$  
   
1,048,035,564
$     
MV
20444
229,628,711
$  
  
3,289,258
$  
  
226,339,453
$     
TOTAL MV & PP
21739
1,306,850,651
$  
  
32,475,634
$  
   
1,274,375,017
$     
FINAL TOTAL
31309
4,969,564,902
$  
  
425,285,190
$  
  
4,544,279,712
$    
FINAL TOTAL TAXABLE M13
31309 BAA CHANGE
(10,196,355.00)
$    
4,534,083,357
$     
2022 Grand List 
Summary of Change 
34

The 2022 Assessor’s Grand List realized a net increase of  $1,021,648,387 or a net change of 29.09% 
This Grand List growth is due primarily to the appreciation in real property values since the last state-
mandated revaluation in 2017.  Major construction projects impacting the 2022 Grand List included 
ongoing construction at the Waterford Woods apartment complex on Willetts Avenue, the completion of 
5 Dayton Road and new gas station/convenience stores at 446 Boston Post Road and 806 Hartford 
Turnpike. 

The 2022 Grand List change in each component is the result of:

Personal Property- Values increased by 12.23% led by changes made at Dominion a well as
personal property additions by Yankee Gas and CL&P.  The personal property comprising the
utility scale solar facility located at 117 Oil Mill Road resulted in an addition of $15.5M to the
net personal property list.

Real Estate- Values increased by 37.86% due to the 2022 revaluation, new construction and
additions to existing structures.

Motor Vehicle – The 2022 Grand List increased by 5.68%.
Component
2021
2022
% Change
Real Estate
2,365,131,030
$  
3,260,515,540
$  
37.86%
Personal Property
933,136,567
$     
1,047,228,364
$  
12.23%
Motor Vehicle
214,167,373
$     
226,339,453
$     
5.68%
Assessment Change 
35

 
Distribution of Grand List 
 
The Assessor's Grand List is comprised of three Stratums, Real Property, Personal Property and Motor 
Vehicles. The percentage distribution historically remains consistent.  The charts below illustrate our 
Grand List structure overall and compares each sub-category of real estate and its contribution to the 
total net grand list.  
 
 
2022 Grand List 
Total Real Estate 
 
 
71.91%  
Personal Property 
 
 
23.10%   
Motor Vehicle  
 
 
  4.99% 
Total  
 
 
 
 100.00% 
 
2021 Grand List 
Total Real Estate 
 
 
   67.33% 
Personal Property 
 
 
   26.57% 
Motor Vehicle  
 
 
     6.10%  
Total  
 
 
 
 100.00% 
 
      
Net Grand List Comparison 2021 to 2022
Category
2021 Grand List AFTER BAA & COCs 2022 Grand List PRE BAA
2022 Grand List Post BAA $ VARIANCE
% VARIANCE % GRAND LIST
Net Real Estate
Residential
1,512,636,621
$                                 
2,029,069,140
$                                         
2,023,227,110
$                
510,590,489
$    
33.75%
44.62%
Commercial 
837,807,694
$                                    
1,209,210,581
$                                         
1,205,708,696
$                
367,901,002
$    
43.91%
26.59%
Industrial
339,293,051
$                                    
424,434,530
$                                            
424,434,530
$                   
85,141,479
$      
25.09%
9.36%
Total Gross Real Estate
2,689,737,366
$                                 
3,662,714,251
$                                         
3,653,370,336
$                
963,632,970
$    
35.83%
80.58%
Exemptions
(324,606,336)
$                                   
(392,809,556)
$                                           
(392,854,796)
$                 
68,248,460
$      
21.02%
Total Net Real Estate
2,365,131,030
$                                 
3,269,904,695
$                                         
3,260,515,540
$                
895,384,510
$    
37.86%
71.91%
Personal Property
957,974,160
$                                    
1,077,221,940
$                                         
1,076,414,740
$                
118,440,580
$    
12.36%
23.74%
Exemptions
(24,837,593)
$                                     
(29,186,376)
$                                             
(29,186,376)
$                   
4,348,783
$        
17.51%
Total Net Personal Property
933,136,567
$                                    
1,048,035,564
$                                         
1,047,228,364
$                
114,091,797
$    
12.23%
23.10%
Motor Vehicles
217,651,283
$                                    
229,628,711
$                                            
229,628,711
$                   
11,977,428
$      
5.50%
5.06%
Exemptions
(3,483,910)
$                                       
(3,289,258)
$                                               
(3,289,258)
$                     
(194,652)
$          
-5.59%
Total Net Motor Vehicles
214,167,373
$                                    
226,339,453
$                                            
226,339,453
$                   
12,172,080
$      
5.68%
4.99%
Total Net Grand List
3,512,434,970
$                                 
4,544,279,712
$                                         
4,534,083,357
$                
1,021,648,387
$ 
29.09%
100.00%  
36

Top Ten Taxpayers Grand List 2022 RE/PP Combined
REAL ESTATE
Net Assessed Value
Dominion Energy Nuclear CT Inc. MP#3
461,089,393
$ 
  
Dominion Energy Nuclear Connecticut Inc.
193,017,960
$ 
  
Dominion Energy Nuclear CT Inc MP#2
136,079,873
$ 
  
Centro GA Waterford Commons (Waterford Commons Plaza)
34,849,925
$ 
  
Mass Municipal Wholesale Electric Co
23,312,947
$ 
  
Crystal Mall LLC (Mall Stores)
19,955,210
$ 
  
Chase Crossroads Waterford Square (Crossroads Plaza)
14,596,340
$ 
  
Wal-Mart Real Estate Business Trust
12,945,190
$ 
  
VTR Northeast Holdiings LLC
12,099,020
$ 
  
Charter Oak Federal Credit Union
12,073,690
$ 
  
PERSONAL PROPERTY
Net Assessed Value
Dominion Energy Nuclear Connecticut Inc
805,971,058
$ 
  
Connecticut Light & Power Company dba Eversource
107,793,380
$ 
  
Mass Municipal Wholesale Electric Co
19,560,990
$ 
  
Yankee Gas Services Co
18,908,080
$ 
  
CF Waterford LLC (Utility scale solar 117 Oil Mill)
14,542,220
$ 
  
Green Mountain Power Corp
7,050,106
$ 
 
Constitution Eye Surgery Ctr East LC
3,173,110
$ 
 
Target Corporation
2,739,510
$ 
 
Sonalysts Inc.
2,541,700
$ 
 
Coca Cola Bottling Southeastern NE
2,415,170
$ 
 
COMBINED
Net Assessed Value
Dominion Energy Nuclear Connecticut 
1,599,690,455
$ 
  
Connecticut Light & Power Co. dba Eversource
107,793,380
$ 
  
Mass Municipal Wholesale Electric
42,873,937
$ 
  
Centro GA Waterford Commons LLC
34,849,925
$ 
  
Crystal Mall LLC (Mall Stores)
19,955,210
$ 
  
Yankee Gas Services Co
18,908,080
$ 
  
Green Mountain Power Corp
15,452,482
$ 
  
Chase Crossroads Waterford Square
14,596,340
$ 
  
CF Waterford LLC (Utility scale solar 117 Oil Mill)
14,542,220
$ 
  
Sonalysts Inc.
14,098,740
$ 
  
37

Assessment Administration 
The Board of Assessment Appeals conducted hearings in April over the course of nine sessions.  Assessment 
staff assists the board by performing the following duties:  appellant appointment scheduling; legal ad 
postings; records and files meeting agendas and minutes; updates assessment changes in the CAMA and QDS 
systems and mails action notices to all appellants per state statute. 
In total, the Board heard 178 appeals and made 100 changes. The Board chose to hear appeals for commercial 
and industrial properties with assessed values over $1M and made 0 changes to properties in this category. 
Real Estate: 
Sales questionnaires continue to be sent to all new owners of real estate.  The returned forms assist staff in 
determining the validity of sales as a reflection of the current real estate market.  Staff continues to review 
listings of properties for sale and update real estate data as warranted.  The sales validation process is recorded 
both locally, in the town’s CAMA system, and at the state level through the OPM sales ratio database, which 
is integral to the state’s annual compilation of the Equalized Net Grand List. 
38

Transfers of real estate title for tax billing and ownership records are processed on an ongoing basis in the 
Assessor’s office.  From October 2022 through September 2023 a total of 755 changes to title were processed. 
Number of Documents Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
YTD
Totals
Transfers ≥ $2,000
88
87
107
97
379
Change or Transfer $0
106
44
98
128
376
Transaction Totals
194
131
205
225
755
The Assessor’s Office is required to maintain accurate GIS/tax maps and process updates accordingly.  
Working with Tighe and Bond, the Assessor’s Office initiated a total of 36 map changes for the 2022 and 
upcoming 2023 Grand List. 
Staff members have processed a total of 1845 building permits this year, verifying and valuing those that 
reflect property improvements and changes of use. 
Income and Expense forms were mailed on March 15, 2023 to all owners of commercial, income producing 
real estate.  The deadline to file the 2022 I&E forms was June 1st, 2023.  Staff collected returned forms for 
further analysis by the Assessor to establish economic income data relevant to the current market. 
39

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40

Dear Community Members, 
I continue to be proud to be the Superintendent of the Waterford Public Schools.  I sincerely appreciate the 
opportunity to lead such an outstanding school district with such a history of excellence.   
The 2022-2023 school year, while not without challenges, was a much better year for staff and students 
than the previous two school years.  Our team has consistently led with an unwavering commitment to our 
mission to “ensure every student acquires the skills and knowledge necessary to be a responsible citizen, 
prepared to contribute and succeed in an ever-changing world”. Our focus remains on educating our 
students and we are proud of our staff and families who worked together to assist in making the 2022-2023 
school year one of substantial accomplishments in the Waterford Public Schools for our students.  
On behalf of our central office team, it is a pleasure to present this Annual Report to the Waterford 
community.  This report will provide data and information with regard to the progress we are making as a 
school system in educating our fine students.   
Last year was the first year of a revised district Strategic Plan.  Our revised Strategic Plan, approved by the 
Board of Education, encompasses four distinct goal areas: Communication; Rigor and Assessment; Social 
and Emotional Learning; and Equity for all students.  This plan is our roadmap to success and serves as 
guidelines for not only our district work but also for budget development. 
The Waterford Board of Education has continued to work diligently through challenging budgetary times 
to provide consistent educational programs and maintaining an engaging environment that challenges our 
students.  We have an amazing staff who are dedicated to our district, bringing their best at all times for 
our students.  The Board maintains a strong commitment to excellence to vigorously engage students in the 
learning process and ensure that all students are college and career ready.  The safety and well-being of our 
staff and students remains our top priority.     
It is inspiring to be a part of a team that is committed to educating the whole child; providing for the social, 
emotional, and academic well-being of every student.  As this Annual Report shows, we have once again 
reaffirmed the importance of reasonable class sizes and academic support services.  We continue to offer a 
full range of opportunities for students at a time when many school districts are cutting back their programs 
in athletics and the arts.  
At the end of the day, our students continue to achieve at high levels, develop their talents and interests, 
and demonstrate their commitment to make a positive contribution to their community.  We are very proud 
of our many noteworthy accomplishments and continue to appreciate the immense support from our 
families, town, and community. 
Mr. Thomas W. Giard III 
Superintendent of Schools 
Mr. Craig C. Powers 
Assistant Superintendent 
41

Page | 2 
 District-wide 
•
In alignment with the Board Goal to “Advocate for and build a district that promotes equity”, the
district continued our focus on equity as a significant initiative in the 2022-2023 school year.  The
District Equity Plan was embedded in the District Strategic Plan.  The Black and Latino Studies
course was implemented at Waterf