Town Council 06/08/2026

The Town Council of Southington held a meeting on June 8, 2026, which included significant procurement and budget-related discussions primarily focused on public safety and infrastructure projects. Key procurement actions included unanimous council approval to apply for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to replace 60 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) with a town cost share of approximately $100,000, and authorization to apply for a Federal DOT Safe Streets for All (SS4A) grant totaling $440,000 with a 20% town cost share. The council also discussed the strategic importance and financial implications of applying for a FEMA SAFER grant to hire 12 additional firefighters to achieve 24/7 staffing at fire stations, with detailed presentations on staffing needs, response times, and budget impacts. While there was support for applying, members expressed concerns about funding sources and requested further financial analysis before final hiring decisions. Additionally, the council reviewed a preliminary roadway construction cost estimate for 682 Curtis Street, noting the developer's unwillingness to share the 20% cost share required for a STEAP grant application, leading to a motion to table the matter. Other procurement-related items included approval of a sewer code revision to address equitable sewer hookups and a tax abatement interest waiver of $17,276 due to billing errors. The council also agreed to explore administrative collaboration between emergency services departments to improve efficiency. Overall, the meeting focused heavily on grant applications, capital equipment replacement, staffing enhancements, and infrastructure project funding, with motions passed to proceed with grant applications and policy updates.