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4 weeks ago

Simsbury committee hears experts outline thermal energy networks as a local decarbonization option Representatives from PACE and Vermont Community Thermal Networks introduced thermal energy networks to the Simsbury Sustainability Committee, explaining how shared geothermal and waste-heat systems work, summarizing U.S. case studies and urging formation of a working group and community workshops to prepare for future Connecticut grant opportunities.

Discover how thermal energy networks could revolutionize heating in Simsbury, cutting costs and emissions while promoting sustainability!

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1 month ago

Town manager proposes moving small capital into operating to reduce reserve reliance; board probes $2.2M HS track and turf plan Town Manager recommended folding recurring small capital (CNR) into the operating budget over several years to reduce reliance on volatile surplus and capital reserves. Separately, school officials presented a $2.1'.2 million bonded track-and-turf replacement at Simsbury High, with warranty and scheduling questions.

Simsbury is shaking up its budgeting strategy for small capital projects, aiming for sustainability while considering a $2.2 million upgrade to the high school track and turf.

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1 month ago

Town manager proposes FY2027 budget with 2.1% mill‑rate impact; recommends CNR reform and targeted funding shifts Town Manager presented a FY2027 recommended budget showing a 2.1% mill‑rate impact (approx. $227 on average taxpayer), proposed eliminating CNR as a standalone classification in favor of CIP/operating funding, recommended up to $60,000 capital match for SVAA ambulance, and suggested repurposing a library position to support economic development while reducing Main Street Partners funding from $85,000 to $35,000.

Simsbury's proposed FY2027 budget aims for a 2.1% mill-rate impact, addressing rising costs while reshaping how taxpayer funds are allocated for future projects.

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2 months ago

Simsbury schools outline multi-pronged plan to curb harmful language and boost belonging After public comments about racial slurs, district equity leaders and principals described a student-centered campaign, restorative practices and new school-climate protocols designed to reduce harmful language, expand supports and increase student participation in advanced courses.

Simsbury schools are rolling out a comprehensive plan to combat harmful language and foster a more inclusive environment, driven by student voices and community involvement.

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2 months ago

Main Street Partnership highlights local business support, seeks data-driven investments for downtown Simsbury Main Street Partnership presented its 2025 accomplishments and 2026 priorities to the Board of Selectmen, emphasizing business retention, a proposed office‑vacancy committee, data work with Placer AI, and a town contribution that staff says is now about $85,000.

Simsbury Main Street Partnership is set to transform downtown commerce in 2026 with innovative initiatives aimed at retaining local businesses and utilizing data-driven decision-making!

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3 months ago

Commission continues McLean Affiliates’ revised 40‑unit proposal after technical review and public testimony The commission heard extensive testimony, peer review comments and public input on McLean Affiliates’ revised application (CC‑25‑25) for 40 units at 75 Great Pond Road; commissioners accepted an intervener petition and continued the public hearing to Jan. 20, 2026 for applicant responses and peer‑review follow‑up.

The Simsbury Conservation Commission is diving deep into the revised proposal for 40 duplex residences, sparking intense public debate and thorough peer reviews ahead of the next hearing on January 20, 2026.

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4 months ago

Zoning panel adopts text amendment to allow conversions of existing business buildings to residences by special exception The Simsbury Zoning Commission voted 4–2 to adopt ZC25‑28, a text amendment to Section 4.5 allowing conversion of existing commercial structures to residential uses in B1, B2 and B3 zones by special exception; staff said the change aligns with local POCD housing goals and forthcoming state legislation on 'middle housing.'

Simsbury just took a bold step towards transforming vacant commercial buildings into cozy residences, but what does this mean for the town's future?

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4 months ago

Tekon lays out three options, large costs for Squadron Line School replacement or renovation Tekon Architects presented three options for Squadron Line School — status quo phased repairs, a renovate-as-new phased renovation, or full new construction — and estimated total project costs around $131 million with Simsbury's net share roughly $66'$68 million depending on scenario; grant timing could place completion near 2031.

Tekon Architects unveiled three costly options for the aging Squadron Line School, with potential renovations and new structures estimated to reach up to $131 million!

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4 months ago

Simsbury committee discusses artificial turf at Curtis Park; members raise environmental and process questions Committee members debated whether to engage on proposed artificial turf and related improvements at Curtis Park, citing environmental concerns—floodplain and alluvial soils—and questions about exclusive use agreements and whether the town followed an open procurement process.

Simsbury's Open Space Committee is grappling with the contentious issue of artificial turf at Curtis Park, raising crucial environmental concerns and questions about transparency in agreements.

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5 months ago

Simsbury Performing Arts Center likely headed to referendum after sprinkler, contingency shortfall Town officials told the Board of Finance the SIMPAC project is under its referendum cap and may need roughly $388,000 in a supplemental appropriation — likely requiring a public referendum in January or February — largely to cover a fire suppression requirement and to restore project contingency.

Simsbury's Performing Arts Center project faces a funding shortfall of nearly $400,000, potentially leading to a crucial public referendum to secure safety upgrades and contingency funds.

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5 months ago

Board hears long-term debt model and options: bond premium, term changes, BANs and refunding discussed Municipal advisors and bond counsel briefed the Simsbury Board of Finance on a 15-year debt-service model and options to smooth future spikes, including using bond premium, changing amortization terms, issuing bond anticipation notes and timing new issues to fall when debt falls off.

The Simsbury Board of Finance just uncovered a 15-year roadmap to manage future debt spikes, ensuring financial stability while planning for major projects!

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5 months ago

Simsbury agency finds McLean senior‑housing plan may significantly affect wetlands; orders third‑party review, schedules public hearing The Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Agency voted that McLean's revised Meadow Homes application may have a significant impact on wetlands, directed staff to solicit independent peer review, and set a public hearing for Dec. 16, 2025. The applicant reduced unit count and says the plan avoids direct wetland impacts.

Simsbury's Inland Wetlands Agency has raised concerns over McLean's revised Meadow Homes project, indicating potential significant impacts on local wetlands and scheduling a public hearing for December 2025.

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5 months ago

Historian Lawrence Cotton traces Frederick Law Olmsted’s national legacy and local Connecticut imprint Lawrence Cotton, a public historian and filmmaker, presented a lecture at the Simsbury Public Library about Frederick Law Olmsted’s career, the reach of Olmsted-designed parks across North America, and the designer’s ties to Connecticut sites including Keeney Park and Trinity College. The program included a question-and-answer session and locallyre

Discover how Frederick Law Olmsted's visionary designs revolutionized public parks and continue to shape our communities today.

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5 months ago

Simsbury Planning Commission gathers resident priorities to guide village implementation plan The Simsbury Planning Commission hosted an open house to collect community priorities for implementing a village plan called out in the towns 2024 Plan of Conservation and Development. Staff and consultant SLR presented draft recommendations on streetscape, connectivity, recreation and economic vitality and asked attendees to rank priorities using

Simsbury residents had their say at an open house, shaping the future of their village with priorities on connectivity, recreation, and economic vitality!

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5 months ago

Commission approves 120‑room Holiday Inn Express at Hot Meadow; engineering items to be resolved before permits A 120‑room Holiday Inn Express on a seven‑acre portion of a 54‑acre site at Hot Meadow Street was approved by the zoning commission with conditions; the approval is subject to completion of outstanding engineering/stormwater comments and additional test pits prior to permits.

A new 120-room Holiday Inn Express is set to rise in Simsbury, complete with a rooftop deck and indoor pool, but first, it must tackle some engineering hurdles!

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5 months ago

Housing, open space and Meadowood split candidates; strategic plan proposed to reconcile goals Forum speakers debated how to balance housing demand, open‑space preservation and historic assets. Eric Wellman said he would oppose housing on Meadowood; Heather Goetz and Wendy Max Dudas emphasized a strategic plan to align housing, conservation and historic‑preservation goals.

Candidates clash over housing, open space, and historic preservation in a heated Granby Simsbury Chamber forum, revealing deep divides and urgent calls for a strategic plan.

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5 months ago

SCM Celebrates 40 Years of Community Empowerment Amid Ongoing Challenges SCM continues to unite the community through programming despite facing significant challenges.

Simsbury's Zoning Commission is shaping the future with a groundbreaking mixed-use development that promises to revitalize the heart of the community!

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5 months ago

Simsbury Zoning Commission Evaluates Proposals from Consulting Firms for Code Upgrade Commission reviews proposals from three firms for zoning code upgrades and public engagement plans.

The Simsbury Zoning Commission is one step closer to shaping the town's future as they evaluate groundbreaking proposals for a major zoning code upgrade.

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5 months ago

FHI Studio Proposes Comprehensive Zoning Rewrite for Simsbury's Planning Commission FHI Studio presents an 18-month plan to update Simsbury's zoning regulations during commission meeting.

Simsbury is set to transform its zoning regulations with a bold proposal from FHI Studio, aiming to boost economic growth while protecting the environment.

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5 months ago

Simsbury Commission Selects FHI Studio for Zoning Code Rewrite Amid Firm Presentations The commission unanimously chooses FHI Studio to negotiate a contract for zoning code updates.

The future of Simsbury hangs in the balance as community voices unite to shape zoning regulations that honor both growth and the town's unique charm.

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6 months ago

Town Board Reaffirms Triple A Bond Rating Prior To Debt Issuance Town board celebrates reaffirmed triple A bond rating ahead of upcoming debt issuance.

Simsbury's Board of Finance celebrates a reaffirmed AAA bond rating, paving the way for exciting financial opportunities ahead!

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6 months ago

SCM Faces Funding Challenges Amid Shift to Internet Streaming SCM struggles with declining revenue from traditional subscriptions as viewers go online.

Simsbury Center's beloved local media outlet, SCM, is fighting to survive as funding dwindles in the wake of changing viewer habits—what's next for this community cornerstone?

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6 months ago

Town Finance Board Approves $110K Supplemental Appropriation for Eno Memorial Hall Project Finance Board unanimously approves funds for Eno Memorial Hall entrance and pavement improvements.

Simsbury's Board of Finance just approved a $110,000 fund for vital renovations to Eno Memorial Hall, ensuring safer access for all residents!

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6 months ago

Finance Committee Reports $128M Projected Surplus and Bond Sale Details Committee highlights projected surplus and successful bond rating ahead of upcoming sale.

Simsbury's Board of Finance meeting revealed a promising projected surplus of $128,000 and a successful bond rating, paving the way for a bright fiscal future.

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8 months ago

Simsbury Community Media seeks donations to sustain local programming and education SCM appeals for financial support amid declining television subscription revenue.

Simsbury Community Media is at a crossroads, urging residents to step up and help preserve 40 years of local programming and education amidst dwindling funds.

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8 months ago

Superman Film Teaser Highlights Unique Character Traits and Iconic Themes Teaser trailer focuses on Superman's unique character and interactions with Lex Luthor.

Community members in Simsbury are diving deep into the moral dilemmas of "Superman 2025" and how the iconic hero's choices could spark vital conversations about power and responsibility.

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8 months ago

Movie Review Highlights Mister Terrific's Unexpected Popularity in New Superman Film Review discusses Superman's modern portrayal and Mister Terrific's significant role.

The upcoming "Superman 2025" is set to redefine iconic characters with a modern twist, diving deep into Lex Luthor's motivations and introducing fan-favorite Mister Terrific!

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8 months ago

Film Tease Hints at Batman Universe Following Metropolis Evacuation Scene Filmmakers tease a connection between Metropolis and Gotham after an evacuation scene unfolds.

Excitement is brewing in the DC universe as "Superman 2025" hints at a thrilling connection to Gotham City and introduces a mysterious new rival, Ultraman!

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8 months ago

Steve Robertson Discusses Cycling Safety and YouTube Journey from Winstead Steve Robertson shares insights on cycling safety and his YouTube experiences.

Steve Robertson, the inspiring former sales manager turned cycling advocate, is taking the YouTube world by storm with his safety tips and thrilling biking adventures!

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8 months ago

Steve Discusses Favorite Trails on East Coast Greenway from Canada to Key West Steve highlights memorable trails including Bronx Trail and Baltimore to Annapolis route.

A vibrant discussion in Simsbury revealed how greenways not only connect communities but also transform local businesses into thriving hubs for outdoor enthusiasts.

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