As reported in the last newsletter, the tight budget was impacting any work on the road around the lake, and, if anything, the money situation has gotten worse. We'll keep working with Public Works and hope some of the government "stimulus" dollars find their way to Winsted. In the meantime, report any potholes and/or dangerous erosion along the sides of the road to Public Works at 860.379.4070.

Adopt a road drain - if you see one is blocked and is causing water to back up, clear the debris away. Carry a stick when you take a walk to help with this.

The Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) subcommittee is working on the Town's Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD). P&Z is coming under considerable pressure to insert completed work regarding the Torrington Road "Enterprise Zone” so the POCD could be considered updated for State purposes and State funding obtained to extend water and sewer pipes along Torrington Road. However, it is doubtful whether the State would accept the POCD as updated when only one section has been revised. In view of the importance of the POCD "roadmap" for future Town smart growth, the Town officials should do all they can to assist the subcommittee to get the entire Plan finished.

There has been a continuing push by some Town selectmen to sell Town-owned parcels on and around the lake for insignificant dollar amounts; however, the present Town Plan of Development recommends the Town retain undeveloped parcels or lots to keep some undeveloped wooded land, which is important to help prevent erosion and catch rainwater and snowmelt runoff that would carry pollutants and weed and algae-encouraging nutrients into the lake. These random lots also add to the tree cover, enhancing the scenic beauty of the lake and its watershed. The P&Z has consistently recommended against selling the land until the POCD is completed and the Town has a rational plan for such land in the future. Recent proposals to sell such land have been voted down by outstanding attendance of residents at public hearings.

It’s your town - the best way to know what's going on and let the Town leaders know how you feel about the issues is to attend town meetings.