Fiscal Year 2020 Annual Report (PDF)

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Town of Waterford,
Connecticut

ANNUAL
FINANCIAL REPORT
For the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

ELECTED OFFICIALS ..................................................................................... 1
REPRESENTATIVE TOWN MEETING ............................................................. 2
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ..................................................................... 3
PROFESSIONAL STAFF ................................................................................. 9
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE .............................................................................. 10

ANNUAL REPORTS:

BOARD OF SELECTMEN ............................................................................... 13
TAX COLLECTOR .......................................................................................... 19
TOWN CLERK ............................................................................................... 21
ASSESSOR .................................................................................................... 23
BOARD OF EDUCATION ............................................................................... 31
BUILDING DEPARTMENT ............................................................................. 39
CONSERVATION COMMISSION ................................................................... 45
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ........................................................................ 51
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ...................................................................... 55
ETHICS COMMISSION .................................................................................. 59
FIRE SERVICES ............................................................................................. 61
FLOOD AND EROSION CONTROL BOARD .................................................... 69
HARBOR MANAGEMENT ............................................................................. 71
HISTORIC PROPERTIES COMMISSION / MUNICIPAL HISTORIAN ............... 70
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE ................................................ 77
LEDGE LIGHT HEALTH DISTRICT .................................................................. 85
LIBRARY ....................................................................................................... 91
NURSING SERVICES ..................................................................................... 111
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION ..................................................... 112
POLICE DEPARTMENT ................................................................................. 123
PUBLIC WORKS ............................................................................................ 159
RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION ..................................................... 185
REGISTRARS OF VOTERS.............................................................................. 199
RETIREMENT COMMISSION ........................................................................ 201
SENIOR SERVICES ........................................................................................ 205
SHELLFISH COMMISSION ............................................................................ 211
UTILITY COMMISSION ................................................................................. 213
WATERFORD EAST LYME SHELLFISH COMMISSION………………………………… 233
YOUTH SERVICE BUREAU ............................................................................ 235
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS ...................................................................... 249

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ............................................................................ APPENDIX A
2019-2020 ANNUAL BUDGET ...................................................................... APPENDIX B

10
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE 01/02/2017 - 01/04/2021
ALPHABETICAL
LAST
FIRST
INITIAL
ADDRESS
TOWN
ST
ZIP
DEM REP Un GRN
19 Perry Avenue
CT
P.
145 Niantic River Road
CT
M.
184 Old Norwich Road
CT
A.
31 Roseleah Dr.
CT
Marie
5 Gunshot
CT
Peter
2 B Lane
CT
H.
2 B Lane
CT
A.
59 Colonial Drive
CT
1 Glenwood Road
CT
30 Old Colchester Rd.
CT
Kacey Leigh
30 Old Colchester Rd.
CT
R
W.
30 Old Colchester Rd.
CT
Callahan
Christopher
69 North Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Lee
3 Colonial Drive
CT
William
296 Millstone Rd. East
CT
l.
22 Alewife Rd.
CT
K.
10 Graham St.
CT
Darling
Anne
A.
132A Shore Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
G.
38 Goshen Rd.
CT
Patrick
310 Boston Post. #88
CT
Scott
10 Warwick Terrace
CT
205 Rope Ferry Rd.
CT
1 Best View Rd.
CT
M.
11 Hillcrest Dr.
CT
Fine
Susan
20 Jordan Cove Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Finn
Joyce
W.
24 Jordan Cove Rd.
CT
Fishbone
Stuart
J.
6 Giovanni Drive
CT
Fontaine
Wendy
Louise
13 R Burlake Rd.
CT
A.
260 Great Neck Road
CT
Garcia-Gonzalez
Elizabeth
19 Boston Post Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Alan
H.
75 Millstone Road West
CT
Gauthier
Nicholas
M.
38 Norman Street
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Margaret
4 Reed Avenue
CT
Goldstein
Paul
34 Fifth Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Allan
N.
10 Magonk Point
CT
Jones
Christopher
R.
222 Boston Post Rd
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Alling
Bernice
Waterford
06385
R
Cairns
Quaker Hill
06375
Ansell
Denise
Waterford
06385
D
Auwood
William
Quaker Hill
06375
R
Balestracci
Marc
Waterford
06385
D
Barry
Lisa
Waterford
06385
R
Bendfeldt
E.
Waterford
06385
R
Bendfeldt
Joan
Waterford
06385
R
Burnham
Mark
Waterford
06385
R
Benoit
Gregory
Waterford
06385
D
Cairns
Ryan
Quaker Hill
06375
R
Cairns
April
Quaker Hill
06375
R
Corriveau
Robert
Waterford
06385
D
Campo
David
Waterford
06385
R
Crawford
Norman
Waterford
06385
R
Cramer
Edward
Waterford
06385
D
Dinoto
Russell
Waterford
06385
R
Donovan
William
Waterford
06385
D
Dubose
Saundra
Quaker Hill
06375
D
Doshna
Eric
Waterford
06385
D
Driscoll
Susan
Waterford
06385
D
Filippetti
Joseph
Waterford
06385
D
06385
R
06385
R
Gardiner
Waterford
06385
D
Friedman
Joshua
Waterford
06385
R
Gilman
Waterford
06385
R
Jacques
Waterford
Waterford
Quaker Hill
Waterford
06385
R
06375
D

11
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE 01/03/2017 - 01/04/2021
ALPHABETICAL
LAST
FIRST
INITIAL
ADDRESS
TOWN
ST
ZIP
DEM REP Un GRN
John
Paul
3 Deborah Street
CT
Kane
Sean
P
P.O. Box 43, 67 Old Norwich Rd Quaker Hill
CT
06375
U
Kanfer
Andrea
F.
16 Baldwin Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Joshua
Steele
70 Oswegatchie Road
CT
G
Kenneth
W.
344 Great Neck Rd.
CT
Ann
M.
9 Quinley Way
CT
Keith
William
7 Cross Drive
CT
Julia
Alexia
8 Quarry Rd.
CT
Lacombe, Sr.
Richard
A.
165 Clark Lane
CT
Lee
LaKisha
L.
120 Old Norwich Road
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
D
Lewis, Jr.
David
Alan
52 New Shore Road
CT
MacKenzie
Katie
960 Hartford Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Maidelis
Talivaldis
38 Beacon Hill Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Mallari
Sara Gilman
6 Reed Avenue
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Mallove
James
L.
175 Great Neck Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Martucci
Adi
V
8 Robin Hill Road
Waterford
CT
06385
U
McCarty
Kathleen
M.
226 Great Neck Rd.
CT
McCaslin
Susan
A.
105 Ridgewood Ave.
CT
McNeeley
Alan
D.
24 Jordan Cove Rd.
CT
Miner, Ill
James
M.
75 Clark Lane
CT
Muckle
Richard
F.
864 Vauxhall St. Ext.
CT
Negri
Stephen
J.
2 Lanyard Lane
CT
Nye
Ann
R.
96 Rope Ferry Rd.
CT
Nye
Robert
M.
96 Rope Ferry Rd.
CT
Olynciw
Theodore
62 Twin Lakes Drive
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Ormond
Margaret
Y.
114 Butlertown Rd.
CT
Panciera
Barbara
A.
14 Riverside Drive
CT
Parise
Joseph
A.
41 Devonshire Drive
CT
Pezzolesi
Kristin
48 New Shore Road
CT
Pinkham
Rodney
A.
23 Jordan Terrace
CT
Plis
Ivy
Louise
21 Dimmock Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Provatas
Rita
36 Niantic River Rd.
CT
Rochester
Steven
1081 Hartford Road
Waterford
CT
06385
R
Sabilia
Elizabeth
A
132 Oswegatchie Road
Waterford
CT
06385
D
Scarpa
Kenneth
P.
108R Bloomingdale Rd.
CT
Sheehan
John
W.
19 Laurel Crest Dr.
CT
Sheridan
Thomas
A.
318 Great Neck Rd.
CT
Strutt
George
R.
33 Roseleah Dr.
CT
06385
D
Kamishlian
Waterford
06385
R
Kirkman
Waterford
06385
D
Kelly
Waterford
06385
R
Koletsky
Waterford
Kushigian-Secor
Waterford
06385
D
Kriet
Waterford
06385
R
Waterford
06385
D
06385
R
Waterford
06385
R
Waterford
06385
U
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06375
R
Quaker Hill
06385
R
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
Waterford
06385
R
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06385
D
Quaker Hill
06375
D
Waterford
06385
R
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06385
R
Waterford
06385
D
06385
R
Waterford

12
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE 01/07/2013 - 01/02/2017
ALPHABETICAL
LAST
FIRST
INITIAL
ADDRESS
TOWN
ST
ZIP
DEM REP Un GRN
Swanson
Gregg
A.
119 Shore Road
Waterford
CT
6385
R
Thompson
Mary
A.
10 R Old Mill Rd.
CT
Voyer
Lawrence
R.
6 Third Avenue
CT
Welch-Collins
Baird
9 Farmstead Lane
Quaker Hill
CT
06375
G
Whelan, Jr.
William
J.
3 Sandy Hollow Rd.
CT
White
George
Cooke
22 New Shore Rd.
CT
Yother
Elizabeth
M.
226 Great Neck Rd.
CT
Waterford
06385
R
Quaker Hill
06375
U
Waterford
06385
D
Waterford
06385
U
Waterford
06385
R

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It has truly been an honor to serve the Town of Waterford this year as the First Selectman. To
me, commitment is truly the most important piece serving our community. I value trust,
communication, dignity, inclusion and always putting the Waterford community at my
forefront.

Community Engagement
Capital Projects Planning & Economic Development
Fleet Management Plan Budget Management

The pandemic created an understandable
hardship for various businesses and residents
within our community. As a town, we worked
tirelessly with businesses, volunteers, the Cactus
Jack
Foundation,
Waterford
Rotary
and
Waterford Youth & Family Services to create the “Waterford Cares” initiative. In doing so, we
focused efforts and attention on the needs of our residents, emotionally, financially, spiritually
and physically. We hosted the 2020 Waterford High School Graduation Ceremony at Waterford
Beach, held multiple Food Drives at Town Hall, focused on community outreach for those in need,
and addressed the local impact of food insecurity. Finally, we successfully donated and delivered
full Thanksgiving dinners to our seniors and veterans in town. We created the Waterford
Veterans Coffeehouse, a group that connects Veterans at monthly meetings and provides
breakfast free to Veterans at Filomenas Restaurant. This Veterans group is organized by local
volunteers in Waterford and supported by the Waterford Youth & Family Service Bureau. It’s
mission is simply providing for Waterford Veterans who have served so courageously in various
military branches. We honored our veterans and
extended the town’s sincere appreciation on
Veterans Day by giving out personalized blankets to
Waterford Veterans. Community engagement is the
component
of
strong
economic
and
social
transformation in a community as great as
Waterford.
The
involvement
of
community
engagement has created an effective, sustainable
and vibrant town. Leaders in town, board members
and commissioners established partnerships with
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
2020 ANNUAL REPORT
ROBERT J. BRULE, FIRST SELECTMAN
JODY NAZARCHYK, SELECTWOMAN
ELIZABETH SABILIA, SELECTWOMAN
CINDY DUPOINTE, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

14
local businesses and non-profits and through committed volunteerism, has resulted in the
development and implementation of creative initiatives and key safety principles providing a
solid foundation of community participation. As many of us adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic,
the safety of our community continues to be my highest priority. Partnering with Ledge Light
Health District to host free community Flu Shots and COVID-19 testing at Waterford High School
assured we had the convenience of in-town testing and commitment to residents’ safety.
Through communication with Ledge Light Health District, we have also offered the Town of
Waterford to be a Regional Host for the COVID-19 Vaccine in 2021.
Our community is now stronger and safe with 24/7
emergency response teams. The Town of Waterford now has
24/7 ambulance coverage, 24/7 police officer coverage and
24/7 fire service coverage in town. All volunteer fire fighters
are now eligible to receive stipends for their time protecting
our community while two crews of paid fire fighters are on
shift at all times in town (Jordan FD in the south end of town
and Cohanzie FD in the north end of town). In 2020, we
signed an agreement with the Waterford Ambulance Service
(WAS) to provide residents 24/7 ambulance coverage. This
formal agreement assures the Town of Waterford complies
with the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act and contracts out its ambulance service, to ensure that
EMS calls in town are responded to within the desired timeframe. In 2020, we approved a capital
expense for body cameras for the Waterford Police Department, which are in addition to vehicle
cameras already in use. In 2020, we created a Full-Time Emergency Management Director
position, which will ensure the Town of Waterford continues to assess its Emergency Evacuation,
Disaster and KI Distribution Plans, discussing pandemic health concerns with our Public Health
Director, coordinate the training of Dispatchers and updating the CAD system. In addition, we
purchased a 3-year contract with Everbridge, an integrated communication technology system
providing residents in Waterford immediate warnings, messages and necessary community
updates. This Everbridge technology will also assist Department Heads in reaching out to
constituents and employees for any and all messaging, quickly, efficiently and in real time. In the
end, Everbridge will create a phone-based
communication tool that will provide customer
service and customer satisfaction. Finally, to
review
response
times
of
emergency
responders, we have created CAD Data Reports
that enable Police, Fire and EMS dispatched
data to be reviewed regularly and assure
residents
we
are
providing
responsible
coverage. A 2019 survey completed by the
Planning Department showed a need for

15
improved communication, therefore, social media Facebook pages were created by the First
Selectman and Emergency Management Department to provide information and community
updates to residents. Town Hall has had interior updating to create a welcoming environment
for the Waterford Community. The Town Hall Art Gallery is now a showcase for local artists to
display their amazing skill set and to allow the community to see such talent, to take a self-care
moment and take in the calmness and the beauty of peaceful art. New signage has been ordered
in warm and welcoming colors, in addition to creating a consumer friendly approach that allows
offices to be easily located.
Capital Projects
The long-range capital plan remains a key focus
to accomplishing our goals while maintaining a
prudent view of the budget. The long-range
capital plan focused on funding for the
Waterford Beach Restroom and ADA Sidewalk
Project, IT upgrades and equipment and
continued
review
of
the
town’s
Fleet
Management Plan. Accessibility for residents
around town continues to be a priority for
capital projects, as well as, town infrastructure.
Creating an inclusive environment has always been a large vision of mine aimed at making a
difference in an individual’s life, which was highlighted in 2020 with the Waterford Beach
Restroom & ADA Sidewalk. The two Luxury portable restrooms (one located near the Summer
Music venue and one located on the Causeway), Showers, Water Fountains, Concrete Sidewalk
and a Mobi-Mat offering a safe, well-drained, firm and stable surface for individuals needing
wheelchairs, strollers or walkers to access the beach and water. Lastly, the town replaced the
roof at The Barn at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center.
Waterford continues to be on a path that is stable and constantly improving. Waterford continues
to effectively pay down its school bonding responsibilities, that includes past school construction
projects and the current $17M Municipal Complex Project on 1000 Hartford Road. We continue
to be creative to increase efficiencies by introducing new program software in the Recreation &
Parks Department and we are continually updating
technology to keep resident’s information safe, and
above all else, taking pride in the work done and
being customer friendly. We continue to look for
new and exciting economic development that will
have long term effects and will enhance our Net
Taxable Grand List, including redefining commercial
spaces, working closely with the Planning & Zoning
Department to create new zoning regulations that

16
will help attract future regional commercial, housing, healthcare, educational and recreational
development. This new approach in the Planning & Zoning Department will provide the town
much needed flexibility as it responds to the impact of Covid-19 on the private sector, the
economy and the financial impact on residents.
Planning & Economic Development
Planning and Zoning has been very busy with
new development applications and a record
number of permits, most likely due to Covid-
19, and homeowner remodels and repairs.
The town has recently hired a zoning
enforcement official and filled the open
assistant building official position, which will
expedite construction projects and customer
service. The Planning Director continues to work closely with the Economic Development
Commission as it navigates the impact of the pandemic. The Planning Director is in close contact
with the Crystal Mall and abutting landlords to continue to support Simon Properties, as needed.
In addition, the Planning Department continues to assess economic development options for the
property. Over the past year there has been a positive response to “filling empty storefronts”,
attracting new businesses and supporting existing Waterford businesses. We worked diligently
with local restaurants, long-term care facilities, retail stores and residents to help those who
needed support.
As scheduled, Waterford PARC Luxury Apartments opened in the spring and filled nearly all 80
units within months. As a result of their success, Waterford Central recently applied and received
approval to create twice the number of luxury apartments down the street on Willetts Avenue,
including an outdoor pool, clubhouse and garage units for additional storage for residents.
Waterford Central envisions every unit being filled quickly, providing the town additional tax
revenue with limited town services needed. The grand opening of Ollies Superstore store at the
former King Buffet and Joanne’s Fabrics has opened. Hartford Healthcare has begun construction
on their multi-million-dollar medical office
building, housing 7 privately run health care
offices and is expected to generate new jobs
and filling the void left at the old Toys-R-Us.
Ace Hardware is currently looking at opening
near Planet Fitness. In November 2020,

17
Greenskies Energy was approved by the state’s Siting Council to create a 75-acre solar field off
Waterford Parkway North, which could provide an estimated $450k in annual taxes. FabCon
concrete business, the world’s largest pre-fab concrete manufacturer, is currently in the final
stages of Special Permit approvals to purchase and build a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant
on the old airport property on Waterford Parkway South. While the town of Waterford
purchased a small lot of land which abutted our town-owned kayak launch on Alewife Cove, thus
doubling the waterfront access to residents. Environmentally, we have successfully removed the
two septic tanks located in the flood plains at Waterford Beach Park. We successfully completed
1600 feet of trench work for city sewer and water from the entrance at Waterford Beach all the
way to the Causeway restroom, ensuring electrical conduit remains 6ft above the flood plain, to
meet federal regulations. Cohanzie School property is looking for a potential buyer to redevelop
the property. The former Southwest School property is vacant and plans and discussions have
started for developing the property responsibly.
Fleet Management Plan

We have continued the use of the Fleet Management Plan as a way to provide quality vehicles
without having major spikes in our budget. By planning a life cycle for the various vehicles and
constantly reviewing the need for these, we have been able to provide our employees with safe
efficient and affordable equipment. Implementation of the Utilization Plan has already been
helpful for Department Heads to get better returns on our auctioned vehicles and removing
unnecessary vehicles from the plan. We are constantly reviewing the plan for accuracy and
efficiency moving forward and a plan is in place to “share” vehicles inter-departmentally.

Budget Management

The Town of Waterford enjoyed a tax decrease this
year! We continue to see modest growth in new
businesses coming into town and saw an increase in the
Grand List for the 6th consecutive year. Most recently,
our Town has completed several projects, embarked on
some new programs and continues to work on process
improvement and customer service. We continue to
proudly develop a working budget for our town that
supports the critical services programs we enjoy while minimizing the growth of the taxpayer’s
burden. We have continued that philosophy with a minimal increase in the budget and a
continuing to increase efficiencies, review attrition, and assess job descriptions throughout town.

18
6

We continue to value the knowledge and experience of our long-term employees. We have
recruited new talented employees to our workforce, which has created opportunities for new
initiatives and ideas. The FY22 Budget will look to increase Capital funding including; more roads
in town being paved, pump stations and water/sewer line maintenance, creation of walking trails
and a Farmers Market in the Civic Triangle, Sidewalk capital plan, Amphitheatre at Waterford
Beach for Summer Music.

Conclusion

Waterford has grown in traffic and services. We have some of the largest retail shopping facilities
in the State, we are home to two nuclear power plants, miles and miles of coastline to patrol.
These provide some obstacles for our town, but I am proud to say that our staff team continues
to meet these challenges every day with resiliency and a positive outlook. We have additional
growth and development in our forecast and look forward to planning out that growth with the
various builders and developers. The year posed
serious challenges, significant obstacles and great
opportunities that resulted in realistic goals being
accomplished. The Board of Selectmen delivered
substantial government accomplishments of the
people’s goals in 2020. Waterford has 219 years
of history and our future reflects the substantial
achievements of our successful past. I will
continue to work diligently for all Waterford
residents and continuously plan for our future.
One town, one team!

BUILDING DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL REPORT
FISCAL YEAR 2020

Town of Waterford
waterfordct.org/

Building Department
Fiscal Year 2020
2

CONTENTS

BUDGET
FUNCTION ........... 2

BUDGET SUMMARY
AND EXPLANTIONS
BY CATEGORY…..3

HISTORY OF
EXPENDITURES…

MEMBERS
Catherine Newlin,
Chair
Joshua Friedman, Vice
Chair
Anne Darling,
Secretary
Michele Kripps
Thomas Malley Jr.
ALTERNATES
Dr. Billy Gene Collins
Danielle McCarty
Darcy Van Ness
STAFF
Jill Pisechko, Zoning
Enforcement Official
Mark Wujtewicz,
Planner & Interim
Zoning Enforcement
Official
Joshua Lecar, Zoning
Enforcement Official
Environmental Planner
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL REPORT

The Building Department manages permitting for all construction in
Waterford. Most development in Town is evaluated by one or more of the
building officials. Waterford’s building officials provide a broad range of
services, including answering general questions about code compliance,
performing complex plan reviews, issuing permits, inspecting projects, and
enforcing codes when necessary. In addition to their work with residents,
contractors, real estate agents, and developers, the officials engage in a
rigorous continuing education program to stay informed about code
changes.

The Department noted a sharp rise in the frequency and length of calls
related to homeowners pursuing renovation projects during the COVID-19
shutdown. Commercial projects and applications for new development
continued at historic levels. Of paramount importance this year was
maintaining the availability and consistency of permitting and inspection
services. The Department’s work supports ongoing investment in Waterford
properties.

Fiscal Year
2020
Revenue:
$91,278

FY20 Budget:
$289,308
FY20: Expended:
$244,452*

FY20 Revenue:
$335,730

In FY20, the Building
Department issued
1,825 permits. This
reflects approximately
$39,183,791 invested
new construction and
building improvements
throughout Town.

*Budget expenses were less
than originally budgeted due to
STAFF
Abby Piersall, AICP, Planning Director
Jay Murphy, Building Official
Steve Cardelle, Assistant Building Official
David Garside, Assistant Building Official
Anna Scanlon, Office Coordinator
Dawn Choisy, Permitting Secretary I
Katrina Kotfer, Permitting Secretary, Clerk

Building Department
Fiscal Year 2020
3

Summary of Building Permits

Fiscal Year 2020 saw continued investment in new commercial construction and new homes.
Commercial projects included the new Waterford Municipal Complex building at 1000 Hartford
Turnpike and work at the Country School. New residential permits included six condominiums and
twenty single family homes. New construction accounted for $12,101,170 invested in the Town of
Waterford.

NEW BUILDING PERMITS
FISCAL YEAR 2020
NEW BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
COSTS
FISCAL YEAR 2020

Building Department
Fiscal Year 2020
4
The majority of building permits were issued for renovations and repairs of existing buildings.
Miscellaneous permits account for the majority of building permits in 2020. This category includes
work such as new windows, decks, chimney liners, and roof repairs. The total value of these permits
for commercial and residential work was $14,804,795.

Building Department
Fiscal Year 2020
5

In addition to building permits, other permit types include mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
permits, or MEP permits, and permits for pools, In FY20, there were 1,127 MEP permits issued, with
associated work valued at $11,942,846. The Department issued 25 new pool permits, valued at
$334,980.

Inspections
The building department logs the results of all inspections in the permit files, and is working toward
field entry of inspections into our online system for ease of reporting. Currently, the Building Official
uses a formula to calculate the number of inspections completed throughout the year. It is based on
average number of inspections for permit types. The department averages 10 inspections per new
single family home, 20 inspections per new commercial building, and 1.5 inspections for all other
permit types. In 2020, the Officials performed roughly 2,980 inspections. For half of the fiscal year,
these inspections were performed by two Officials, as there was a vacancy for the third position.

Inspections in the spring of 2020 were adjusted to meet social distancing recommendations
associated with COVID-19. Officials quickly adjusted inspection methods in March of 2020 to help
support continued building and investment in Town. Some tactics included asking contractors to wait
outside during inspections and using FaceTime and photographs to see certain work.

Permit Fees and Revenue

Building permit fees are based on the cost of the project. Currently the fee is $20 for the first thousand
dollars of construction cost or fraction thereof and thereafter $10 per every $1,000 of construction cost
or fraction thereof. In addition to the base building permit fee, the State of Connecticut charges a
continuing education/training fee that is currently $0.26 per every $1,000 of construction cost. Final
certificates are issued at the end of work and cost $50 for residential projects and $100 for commercial
projects.

Building Department
Fiscal Year 2020
6

In FY20, the Building Department generated $335,730 in revenue from permit and certificate fees.
State fees are transmitted to the State and are not included in the FY20 revenue total. The
Department budget was $289,308. Due to a long-term vacancy, actual expenditures were $244,452.
which reflects a $91,278 surplus in revenue returned to the general fund after payment of department
expenses.

BUILDING
PERMITS
• $ 333,080.00
CERTIFICATES
OF OCCUPANCY
• $ 2,650.00
STATE
PROCESSING
FEES
• $388.23

CONSERVATION
COMMISSION
ANNUAL REPORT
FISCAL YEAR 2020

Town of Waterford
waterfordct.org/---

Conservation Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

CONTENTS

BUDGET
FUNCTION ........... 2

BUDGET SUMMARY
AND EXPLANTIONS
BY CATEGORY…..3

HISTORY OF
EXPENDITURES…

MEMBERS
Richard Muckle, Chair
Tali Maidelis,
Secretary
David Lersch
Geneva Renegar
Michael Stankov
Henry Curtis –
Resigned Nov. 2019
Joshua Kelly –
Resigned Jan 2020
ALTERNATES
Wade Thomas
Julie Wainscot
STAFF
Maureen FitzGerald,
Environmental Planner
Katrina Kotfer,
Recording Secretary
CONSERVATION COMMISSON
ANNUAL REPORT

COMMISSION OVERVIEW
The Waterford Conservation Commission functions as the Town’s
Inland Wetlands Agency, authorizing and enforcing activities
affecting inland wetlands and watercourses in accordance with the
Waterford Inland Wetlands and Watercourses regulations and the
CT General Statutes 22a-36 through 22a-45. The Conservation
Commission is also responsible for the statutory requirements of
maintaining an inventory of open space lands and natural
resources, and making recommendations regarding the
management and preservation of Open Space and natural
resource areas.
The Commission provides staff for the Planning & Zoning
Commission and the Flood and Erosion Control Board. Staff
assistance is also provided to the Department of Public Works and
Recreation & Parks concerning land use and conservation matters
affecting the Town.
During Fiscal Year 2019/20 the Commission held 14 regular
meetings and 3 special meetings to consider 19 applications to
conduct regulated inland wetland and watercourse activities.
Fees received from permit applications totaled $ 1,100.00 for the
fiscal year of 2020.

Conservation Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

3
PERMITTED ACTIVITY

Residential Permits
Eight inland wetland permits were issued for residential improvements, accessory
structures, property maintenance and control of invasive plant species
One permit was issued for new residential lot development and one previously
authorized permit was extended for a new residential structure.
One timber harvest was reviewed and found to be a permitted use, as of right, in
accordance with the Town and State wetland regulations.

Commercial Development
Commercial developments approved in FY 19/20 are:
806 Hartford Turnpike -
Gas Station Re-Development
48 Dayton Road – Multi-Family Commercial Development
122 Bloomingdale Road – Williams School Field Construction
5 Dayton Road – Medical Office Building
994 Hartford Turnpike – Commercial Building
446 Boston Post Road – Gas Station Re-Development
54 Rope Ferry Road – Drainage Improvements

Municipal Projects

20 Rope Ferry Road – High School Softball

Wetlands
Inland wetland permits authorized disturbance of 0.43 acres of wetland, of which 0.40 acres involved
temporary disturbance restored to functioning wetland resource, and 0.03 acres of permanent fill.
Temporary impacts approved involved removal of invasive plant species, restoration of native wetland
vegetation and pond creation.

Conservation Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

4
CONSERVATION TASKS
Town-Wide Stream Water Quality Monitoring
Stream water quality sampling was conducted at 31 locations on Jordan Brook, Nevins Brook, Fenger
Brook, Hunts Brook, Stony Brook, Oil Mill Brook, Millstone (Beebe) Brook, Green Swamp Brook and a
tributary stream to Goshen Cove. Samples were collected by staff in November 2019 and June 2020.
Water quality parameters analyzed include total coliform, e. coli and enterrococcus, suspended solids,
chemical oxygen demand, nitrogen compounds, phosphorus and chloride. The laboratory analytical
cost for sample analysis was $11,073.00. Sampling locations are indicated below.

Conservation Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

The long-term database is maintained in the Planning & Development department, and is used to
evaluate potential impacts of land use and development on stream health, to determine measures
required to protect water quality, and to allow long-term tracking of water quality. Data is compiled
and charted to review trends in concentration of nitrogen and bacteria levels as well as other
monitored parameters affecting water quality. Below is a graph of the nitrate concentrations
monitored in Oil Mill Brook, showing seasonal and long-term monitored concentrations at 4 locations
along the brook. Following slight increases in 2000-2004, nitrate concentrations have remained
relatively stable, indicative of good water quality.

Jordan Brook, Nevins Brook, Stony Brook and Oil Mill Brook support native trout. Habitat
requirements for these fisheries include cool, oxygenated waters with suitable substrate conditions to
provide food and aquatic habitat. Alterations and loss of vegetative cover, soil erosion, flow
alterations and stormwater discharges can adversely impact the biological conditions of these
watercourses.
The 2016 State of Connecticut Integrated Water Quality Report, prepared by CTDEEP identifies
Alewife Cove, Jordan Cove, and areas of Niantic Bay and the Niantic River as impaired water bodies,
not meeting designated uses or water quality goals for fish and aquatic life, or for direct shellfish
consumption. The Commission strongly supports continued monitoring and assessment of the Town’s

Conservation Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

6
water resources to measure potential pollutant loads and detect changes in surface water quality.
The Commission’s goal is to improve or maintain existing water quality that flows into Long Island
Sound and the shoreline resources of Niantic River and Bay, Thames River, and Jordan Cove.
Open Space Evaluation Matrix
The Commission is developing an open space evaluation matrix to assist in identifying important
physical, biological and cultural aspects and benefits of open space parcels in the Town’s open space
inventory. The Commission solicited examples of Open Space evaluation methodologies from
neighboring Towns and is identifying criteria and resource attributes which contribute to the overall
value of Open Space parcels. Once completed, this evaluation tool will assist in the Commission’s
consideration of potential new open space parcels and in making recommendations for their use and
management.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Expenditures for professional services totaled $3,500.00 for third party professional review of
technical documents.

CONFERENCES/EDUCATION
Commissioners and staff attended training and educational seminars regarding inland
wetland regulation, case law, and resource conservation and restoration hosted by the CT
Association of Inland Wetland & Conservation Commissions. The Commission satisfies the
minimum required training recommended by CT DEEP for inland wetlands agencies through
completion of the on-line training program provided by CT DEEP.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
ANNUAL REPORT
FISCAL YEAR 2020

Town of Waterford
waterfordct.org/

Economic Development Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

MEMBERS
Kevin Marcks, Chair
Ivan Kuvalanka
Richard Lacombe
Edward Lusher
Stephanie Hughes
ALTERNATES
Eric Palmer
Gregory Attanasio

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
ANNUAL REPORT
The Economic Development Commission’s purpose is to support and
grow Waterford’s economy. The Commission is empowered by Town
Ordinance and State Statutes to serve as a platform to coordinate
activities and groups that work in support of economic development.
Broad responsibilities the Commission may undertake include market
analysis, business recruitment and retention, marketing the Town,
and recommending actions that Town can take to meet its
development goals.

The Economic Development Commission held 8 meetings during the
2019-2020 Fiscal Year. Meetings were postponed in March, April,
and May due to COVID-19.The Commission met virtually beginning
in June of 2020.

STAFF
Abby Y. Piersall, AICP, Planning Director
Mark Wujtewicz, Planner

Economic Development Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

2020 Economic Development Initiatives
The Economic Development Commission undertook several projects in 2020. The Commission’s
priorities centered on developing a clear mission, building relationships with local businesses, and
beginning work on marketing materials for Waterford.

In 2019, the Commission Chair began attending Southeastern CT Enterprise Region (SeCTer)
meetings. The EDC began efforts to use regional support to meet Waterford’s economic development
goals. The Commission determined that providing resources to existing small businesses was an early
priority. Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the EDC was working with SeCTer leadership to
develop educational seminars for small businesses in Waterford. It is anticipated that these efforts will
resume in the future.

Commission members attended a training
session hosted by the Planning
Department in January that outlined the
local regulatory landscape for development
in Waterford. Members from all land use
boards and commissions participated,
giving EDC members a resource to better
evaluate ways to assist businesses
navigating the development process.

Recognizing the need to better connect with
Waterford’s existing businesses, Commission
members went door-to-door to introduce the
EDC, update contact information, and hear
from owners about their needs and plans.
The Commission used the contact
information they obtained to send a letter to
businesses. The letter was intended to help
inform business owners about the role the
Commission plays and included a request for
recipients to take a brief survey about their
business goals and needs.

Economic Development Commission
Fiscal Year 2020

In the latter part of the year, the Commission began work on redesigning the “About” page on
Waterford’s website. This effort was a starting point to create compelling online materials for people
looking to invest in Waterford.

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FLOOD AND EROSION
CONTROL BOARD
ANNUAL REPORT
FISCAL YEAR 2020

Town of Waterford

Flood & Erosion Control Board
Fiscal Year 2020

CONTENTS

BUDGET
FUNCTION ........... 2

BUDGET SUMMARY
AND EXPLANTIONS
BY CATEGORY…..3

HISTORY OF
EXPENDITURES…

MEMBERS
Betsy Gelinas

Co-Chair
Geneva Renegar

Co-Chair
Baird Welch-Collins

Treasurer
Christopher Callahan
George Harran
Alexander Kuvalanka

STAFF
Frances Ghersi
Recording Secretary
FECB and COVID-19
Due to the global pandemic and the reduction in applications that would
normally be forwarded to the Flood and Erosion Control Board, the Board
did not meet between March and June of 2020. The reduction in
applications requiring the Board’s review and restrictions on in-person
meetings led to the Board’s decision to postpone meetings during this time.
FLOOD AND EROSION CONTROL
BOARD
ANNUAL REPORT

In fiscal year 2020, the Flood and Erosion Control Board evaluated
two applications forwarded from the Waterford Planning and Zoning
Commission, investigated complaints concerning neighborhood
flooding, and reviewed the CT DOT’s project to rehabilitate the
Niantic River Bridge. The board continued to discuss opportunities to
review and manage flooding and sedimentation issues related to
Alewife Cove and the long-term management of Waterford Beach.
The Flood and Erosion Control Board plans to coordinate its efforts in
working with other Town departments and agencies to minimize
erosion and damage to fragile dune and tidal marsh areas from
pedestrians, watercraft and pets in accordance with the Plan of
Conservation & Development and adopt recommendations of the
Climate Change Risk Vulnerability, Assessment and Adaptation
Study completed for the Town of Waterford.

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Ledge Light Health District
Ledge Light Health District (LLHD) serves as the local health department for the municipalities of Ledyard,
East Lyme, Lyme, Groton, Waterford, Old Lyme, Stonington, North Stonington and New London. The LLHD
team, comprised of experts in administration and finance, environmental health, communicable disease
prevention, and health education & community outreach, work cooperatively to promote healthy communities
and ensure that healthy opportunities are available to everyone.

Environmental Health

Regulated Establishments
LLHD inspects food service establishments to ensure they are compliant with the Connecticut Public Health
Code (PHC) and are following good food safety practices. These establishments are inspected based on the risk
associated with their level of food preparation activities; Class III establishments (those with extensive hot
holding, cooling, preparation, etc.) are required to be inspected three times each year, while Class I
establishments only require inspections annually. We work with these local businesses to implement
comprehensive food safety practices and provide cost-effective foodservice education programs. Our Café
program provides our establishments and volunteers with food safety instruction that fulfills the “designated
alternate’ requirement of the PHC. Café classes are scheduled on an as needed basis for volunteer groups,
temporary event staff, and persons who do not normally engage in food preparation. Our ServSafe Certified
Food Protection Manager (CFPM) classes are geared toward foodservice managers and employees who desire
more comprehensive instruction that fulfills the PHC requirement for a CFPM to be onsite at Class II, III and IV
establishments.
LLHD also inspects temporary events where food is served to assure proper food safety practices are being
followed and inspects public pools, cosmetology, day care and lodging establishments to ensure these entities
are taking measures to protect the public health. We also visit residential and commercial properties in response
to complaints or concerns raised by the public. Our online complaint reporting system provides residents the
opportunity to submit their concerns electronically. LLHD is also responsible for assuring that our coastal and
inland waterways are safe for recreational activities. We work with our local shellfish commissions and the
Connecticut Department of Aquaculture to assure that our waters are safe for shell fishing and conduct weekly
inspections and water sampling at all our bathing beaches.

Land Use
Our environmental land use staff of five sanitarians conduct soil testing, plan reviews, groundwater monitoring
and construction inspection activities for building lots served by onsite septic systems and/or wells. In addition
to new lot reviews, we oversee the review of lot line changes, residential and commercial additions, accessory
structures (sheds, decks, pools and detached garages), and changes in use (residential to commercial or an
increase in the number of bedrooms). LLHD also conducts the site location review, permit approval, site
inspection and water test review for private and public drinking water wells, irrigation wells and geothermal
wells.

Communicable Disease Prevention
LLHD holds annual free flu vaccination clinics for all age and provides free vaccinations for new parents,
grandparents and caregivers of infants to protect against Pertussis (whooping cough). We provide education to
the public and organizations about infection prevention and control practices and investigate reports of
communicable and/or infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or food borne illnesses. These investigations may
include conducting partner follow-up, delivering direct observed therapy (to ensure patients are taking their
medications as required), implementing control measures, and providing general support to the affected
individual and their families.
LLHD provides support to schools and long-term care facilities during reported outbreaks to help prevent the
spread of illness. We also provide yearly educational opportunities for infection control personnel in long term
care facilities and schools. We meet monthly with Infection Preventionists from area Long Term Care facilities
to provide education and guidance.
In October, LLHD held its 9th annual Drive-Thru to Beat the Flu exercise in Waterford, where we provided free
flu shots to 197 residents in a drive-thru scenario. Throughout the District, we strive to provide flu vaccinations
to individuals who may otherwise “fall through the cracks”. We visit homeless shelters, soup kitchens, schools,
adult education centers, community meal settings and other areas where underserved populations may gather.

Preparedness Activities

LLHD works closely with municipal and regional partners to prepare for and respond to emergency situations.
These activities include participation in the Millstone exercises, working with local partners to develop
Continuity of Operations and Closed Point of Dispensing plans, and recruiting and training volunteer members
of the Medical Reserve Corps. Because of the COVID pandemic, our participation in weekly preparedness
activities has increased dramatically.
LLHD is a regional leader in emergency preparedness; Director Stephen Mansfield currently represents the
public health sector on the Regional Emergency Preparedness Planning Team (REPT) and is the chair of the
DEMHS Region 4 ESF-8 Group. In addition, he is the preparedness lead and a board member of the
Connecticut Association of Directors of Health and represents local health on one of the DECD Sector Rules
Subcommittees.

Health Education & Community Outreach

LLHD engages and supports the communities we serve in health education, health promotion, and health policy
development activities in a variety of ways. These efforts draw on scientific, evidence-based best practices to
ensure that the programmatic processes involved make efficient use of taxpayer dollars, while achieving
measurable and desired changes in our population’s overall health and resilience. LLHD works diligently to
secure external funding to support these activities and supplement our municipal members' contributions.

Regional Asthma Management Program – Breathe Well-Respira Bien

Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood and a leading cause of preventable hospital
admissions for both children and adults. Asthma rates in CT are among the highest in the nation; there are
approximately 50 deaths from asthma each year in our state. LLHD has a long history of participating
in programs to help reduce the burden of asthma. Although asthma cannot be cured, it can be managed.
Understanding medications and their use can prevent emergency situations. Breathe Well is a free program co-
sponsored by Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, designed to help children and adults with asthma to manage
their asthma better. A trained asthma educator and public health environmental specialist review medications
and provide an in-home environmental asse