August 19, 2010
Regionalization Update
At the end of July, First Selectmen and leaders of several other towns gathered in Colchester to discuss regionalization opportunities. In June, the town manager of Hebron initiated this effort to see if there were ways the towns in the area could enhance their services and reduce expenses. We all kicked around some initial thoughts and decided to continue the meetings and try to identify some regional projects to work on.
When we gathered again in Colchester, more leaders had decided to attend and we had a great discussion. Just hearing some of the ideas and new concepts that other towns are trying out was a tremendous learning experience. The exchange of information is something we all decided to continue so we can learn as much as possible from each other.
During the meeting, we decided to split into three subcommittees to investigate some specific areas. Purchasing was one area we will be looking at. By pooling some of our purchasing, we may be able to get a better price than by buying individually. Public safety was another area we will look at. EMS, Fire, and Police are very expensive services, but critical to public safety. Perhaps there are ways we can look at expanding or maintaining services without increasing cost. Finally, parks and recreation will be examined. We noticed that some activities between the towns are similar and there could be an opportunity to share resources.
Sewer and Water Expansion
One of the current projects ongoing in Colchester is the study of our sewer and water system. Through a state grant, we were able to hire a firm to design an expansion of the system and look at alternatives for funding the expansion. If Colchester is to expand its economic base, we must provide sewer and water service to the areas of town that have been zoned for commercial use.
The final report will not be issued until October, but Colchester must begin thinking about what action we wish to take once the report is complete. Our decision could take many forms. We could decide that all expansion should be paid for by the developer. Alternatively, we could fund the expansion entirely on our own in order to attract developers with services that are ready to go. There are also plenty of other options in between these alternatives that can be considered.
The bottom line is that businesses are looking to come to Colchester and will require sewer and water service. Tractor Supply Company and the stores that will be built in the Parum Road project will be coming soon and they need the necessary infrastructure to support their business. In the very near future, Colchester will have to decide how to handle the needs of these new businesses. Much more information will be coming out as soon as the study is complete so we can have a public discussion over our options.
- Gregg Schuster
First Selectman
Previous Selectman Notes can be viewed at
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