Politics & Government Newtown Selectmen Review Budget Shift, Recycling, And Development Newtown leaders discuss $436K DPW budget shift, invasive species plan, recycling survey, and upcoming town events.
Newtown leaders discuss $436K DPW budget shift, invasive species plan, recycling survey, and upcoming town events. (Shutterstock)
NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Board of Selectmen met on April 7 to review public works funding reallocations, address resident concerns about recycling and water service, and receive updates on town events and development initiatives.
Public Works Director Fred Hurley submitted a detailed budget transfer request reallocating $436,104 within the department’s existing accounts to address winter maintenance and electricity cost overruns. The adjustments stemmed from multiple storms and increased utility rates. The funding, primarily drawn from the highway road improvement line, will also cover overtime at the transfer station, repairs to public buildings, and street lighting. DPW has sufficient salt and sand to complete the season, Hurley wrote, adding that despite budget challenges, essential services would continue without interruption.
The board also received a memo from the Conservation Commission requesting approval to form an Invasive Species Task Force for the 2025 season. The task force would include commissioners and citizen volunteers working to remove invasive plants from town open space, beginning with High Meadow. Resident Sue Torrey submitted written comments raising two concerns. She urged the board to support the installation of National Park Service signs identifying the Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail. She also called for more transparency regarding a pause in new water hookups by Aquarion Water Company and its potential impact on development projects like Castle Hill.
In response to recycling concerns voiced by resident Sean O’Neil, First Selectman Jeff Capeci reiterated the town’s ongoing review of recycling services and emphasized the need for clearer communication from private haulers. Capeci reported that a new facilities manager has been hired and will begin next month. He also noted progress on the roof repair phase for the town’s duplex housing units, which is expected to be completed by October. A public information campaign regarding the town’s new Save As You Throw program recently concluded, with over 3,200 responses to the recycling survey.