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1 week ago

Simsbury Community Media appeals for donations as cable subscriptions fall Simsbury Community Media said its revenue from cable-television subscription fees has declined amid cord-cutting and urged listeners to donate via its website or by scanning an on-screen QR code to support local programming and government-meeting coverage.

Simsbury Community Media is facing a funding crisis as cable subscriptions dwindle, but your support can help preserve vital local programming and community coverage!

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1 month 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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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CitizenPortal #SimsburyCenter #BudgetReform #EducationInvestment

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1 month ago

Selectmen debate town support for volunteer ambulance purchase; town manager warns against owning vehicle Board discussed assisting the Simsbury Volunteer Ambulance Association (SVAA) buy a $250,000 ambulance. Town counsel and the manager said the town cannot legally own the vehicle; members discussed using capital reserves to provide up to about $196,000 (net of fundraising) and holding a lien to protect taxpayers.

Simsbury's Board of Selectmen is at a crossroads, debating how to financially support the Volunteer Ambulance Association's urgent need for a new $250,000 ambulance amid legal concerns and taxpayer protection.

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1 month ago

Simsbury schools unveil 3-year AI plan emphasizing student AI literacy and teacher support Simsbury Public Schools presented a three-year AI strategic plan to teach AI literacy across K–12, stressing ethical use, age-appropriate entry points, teacher professional development and regional collaboration with EdAdvance and the Farmington Valley AI Collaborative.

Simsbury Public Schools is launching a groundbreaking three-year AI literacy initiative that prepares K-12 students for the future while emphasizing ethics and teacher readiness.

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1 month ago

Commission hears overview of new state housing law and timeline for local targets Staff updated the commission on HB 8002, now enacted as Public Act 25-1, explaining the housing growth plan process and that towns will receive aspirational unit targets (likely in 2026); staff said compliance provides grant eligibility but carries limited immediate enforcement.

Connecticut's new housing law is reshaping local growth plans, setting ambitious targets for towns while balancing regional collaboration—what does this mean for your community?

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #ZoningReform #AffordableHousing #CitizenPortal

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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 Board previews 2.8% operating increase as $400,000 insurance projection widens budget gap Board workshop shows a proposed 2.7–3.2% operating budget increase driven largely by staffing, special-education costs and a newly revised $400,000 rise in health‑insurance projections; administrators will return Tuesday with line‑item scenarios.

Simsbury's proposed budget reveals a challenging $400,000 insurance hike, prompting tough decisions on staffing and programs ahead of the crucial vote.

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #HealthInsurance #CitizenPortal #SimsburyCenterBudget #EducationFunding #StaffingChallenges

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2 months ago

Simsbury Police awarded $6.262 million federal grant for new call‑handling software The Simsbury Police Department announced a $6,262,000 Congressional Directed Spending award to buy call‑handling software that will integrate with its CAD system; the department says there will be no department cost in year one and anticipated service costs under $10,000 thereafter, pending award processing with the Department of Justice.

Simsbury Police Department just scored a $6.262 million federal grant to revolutionize their call-handling system, promising improved efficiency and minimal costs!

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2 months ago

ALA president Maria McCauley visits Simsbury Public Library, calls libraries 'lifelines' Dr. Maria McCauley, president of the American Library Association, told a packed gathering at Simsbury Public Library that libraries 'support living, learning, and dying,' highlighted Cambridge programs on digital equity and makerspaces, and urged local engagement to defend intellectual freedom.

Dr. Maria McCauley, president of the American Library Association, passionately declared that libraries are essential lifelines for communities, sharing powerful stories of support during life's most challenging moments.

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2 months ago

ALA president warns of rising book challenges and state‑level threats to libraries Dr. Maria McCauley told Simsbury listeners that ALA recorded 821 reported attempts to censor library materials last year and highlighted state bills and directives (including Arizona HB2008, draft Wyoming language and a Tennessee directive) as current threats to collection access.

Dr. Maria McCauley, president of the American Library Association, revealed alarming statistics showing 821 attempts to censor library materials last year, with targeted attacks on LGBTQ titles and civil rights works.

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #SimsburyCenterLibraries

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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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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CulturalBelonging #SimsburyCenter #CitizenPortal #EquityInEducation

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2 months ago

Local nonprofits describe front-line responses: mobile pantries, medically tailored meals and volunteer networks Nonprofit leaders at the Farmington Valley summit described programs that provide medically tailored meals, retail rescue, farmers‑market SNAP matches and volunteer-driven hot meals; they highlighted practical steps towns can take to expand access.

Local nonprofits are revolutionizing food access with innovative programs that deliver healthy meals and empower communities—find out how your town can join the movement!

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CommunitySupport #FoodAccess #SimsburyCenterNonprofits #CitizenPortal

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2 months ago

Farmington Valley summit warns SNAP uncertainty and federal food‑aid cuts are widening local need Health officials, state lawmakers and nonprofit leaders said rising local demand, a 50% reduction in federal TCAP deliveries and potential SNAP eligibility changes are stressing food banks; speakers urged state funding, better local data and coordinated outreach.

Food banks are facing unprecedented challenges as rising demand and cuts to federal aid threaten to leave many in our community hungry.

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CommunitySupport #FoodAccess #PolicyResponses #CitizenPortal

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2 months ago

Simsbury schools spotlight student-led "Encouraging Words" campaign to address casual slurs and school climate The Simsbury Board of Education heard a detailed strategic-plan update focused on building a "Compassionate and Connected" school culture centered on a student-created Encouraging Words campaign, restorative practices and expanded supports; presenters said focus groups and early data show increased AP participation and reduced suspensions in targeted cohorts.

Simsbury schools are taking a bold step towards a more inclusive environment with their student-led "Encouraging Words" campaign aimed at combating casual racism and fostering a compassionate culture.

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #StudentEmpowerment #SimsburyCenterEducation

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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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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #EconomicDevelopment #BusinessRetention #SimsburyCenter

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3 months ago

Plainville and Southington trail segments delayed by lawsuits and right‑of‑way disputes, presenter warns Presenter said lawsuits and railroad negotiations are delaying Southington and Plainville trail segments and told attendees that an Attorney General opinion and federal grant deadlines make right‑of‑way acquisition urgent.

Legal battles and funding deadlines are putting the brakes on trail projects in Southington and Plainville—what does this mean for your community?

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CommunityParticipation #LegalChallenges #CitizenPortal #TransportationFunding

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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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3 months ago

East Coast Greenway presenter outlines Connecticut progress, major corridors and funding priorities At a Simsbury Center presentation, the East Coast Greenway presenter summarized Connecticut trail progress, named near‑term construction projects and funding sources, warned of legal bottlenecks on some segments and highlighted a DOT feasibility study near Danbury.

Connecticut's East Coast Greenway is on track to boost its spine completion to 74.5% by 2030, with exciting projects and funding initiatives just around the corner!

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3 months ago

Simsbury leaders present preliminary FY2027 budget guidance, flag projected tax increase and $2M gap At a joint meeting, Simsbury officials previewed FY2027 budget assumptions showing a projected 4.3% tax increase under current estimates, outlined tools (reserves, health‑insurance funds, targeted cuts) to lower the rate, and said a roughly $2 million gap must be closed to reach a 2% guidance target.

Simsbury officials are facing a potential 4.3% tax increase as they navigate a $2 million budget gap for FY2027, but there are strategies in place to mitigate the impact.

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4 months ago

Local filmmakers plan 'Sister Spies' in Simsbury; Nov. 15 masquerade will raise funds for production and anti-trafficking charity Heidi Enloe and Jenny Bravada, co-writers and cast members of the independent film 'Sister Spies,' said a Nov. 15, 2025 masquerade in Simsbury will raise production funds and donate a portion to Love146; they hope to begin filming in spring or summer 2026, pending financing.

Get ready for an unforgettable night! Local filmmakers Heidi Enloe and Jenny Bravada are hosting a mystery masquerade fundraiser on Nov. 15, 2025, to kick off their film 'Sister Spies' and support the fight against child trafficking.

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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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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #HousingReform #CitizenPortal #SimsburyCenter #ZoningLaw #CommunityDevelopment

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4 months ago

Board reviews terms of three-year teachers'union deal; ratification moved, Selectmen review required Board heard highlights of a three-year contract between the Simsbury Board of Education and the Simsbury Education Association covering 07/01/2026'06/30/2029 (approx. 13.03% total increase); a motion to ratify was moved and seconded and staff said the agreement will next go to the Board of Selectmen per state statute.

The Simsbury Board of Education is poised to ratify a significant three-year contract with teachers, featuring a 13.03% pay increase and enhanced retiree benefits, but it still needs approval from the Board of Selectmen.

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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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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CitizenPortal #CommunityEngagement #SimsburyCenter #EducationReform

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4 months ago

Preliminary Simsbury results show incumbents leading as town awaits absentee counts Simsbury Community Media’s Nov. 4 coverage reported preliminary tallies showing incumbent Wendy Maxidis leading the first-selectman race and mixed leaders in other local contests; hosts cautioned absentee ballots and early-vote data entry could change close outcomes.

As Simsbury awaits the final absentee ballot counts, preliminary results show incumbent Wendy Maxidis leading the first selectman race, but tight margins in several contests could change everything!

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #CivicEngagement #CitizenPortal #VoterTurnout

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5 months ago

Simsbury sustainability committee lays out next steps after Board of Selectmen adopts Part 1 (Energy) After the Board of Selectmen adopted Part 1 of Simsbury's sustainability plan (energy), the Sustainability Committee agreed to form four working groups — building efficiency, solar and battery storage, heating electrification, and transportation — and sought volunteers to lead or support each pillar while coordinating with town staff and other town

Simsbury's Sustainability Committee is charging ahead with a comprehensive energy plan, tackling everything from building efficiency to electric vehicle integration!

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5 months ago

Simsbury open-space committee raises environmental and process questions about proposed Curtis Park turf project Committee members discussed environmental risks and procedural concerns after reports that a private group has sought exclusive use and is proposing artificial turf, lighting and other improvements at town-owned Curtis Park; members said any capital work would need land-use approvals and that proximity to the river and alluvial soils could trigger,

The Simsbury Open Space Committee is raising red flags over proposed artificial turf at Curtis Park, citing environmental risks and procedural hurdles that could impact the beloved green space.

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#SimsburyCenterCapitolCounty #CT #SimsburyOpenSpace #CitizenPortal #ParksImprovement

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5 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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