Council Names Studley

As New Chairman

By Steve Bigham

Longtime Newtown resident Donald Studley was unanimously elected new chairman of the Legislative Council Wednesday night.

Mr Studley, a CPA in Danbury, takes over for Pierre Rochman who resigned his seat on the council September 6. Vice Chairman Melissa Pilchard had served as interim chairman until midway through this week’s meeting. Upon Mr Studley’s election, Mrs Pilchard simply handed the new chairman the gavel and the meeting continued.

Mr Studley’s chairmanship only lasts through the end of the current term, which ends December 1. After that, a new council will be sworn into office. Mr Studley is seeking reelection in District 3. If elected, he is expected to be selected by fellow council members to continue in the role of chairman for the next two years.

On Wednesday, the council also welcomed new member Bill Meyer, who was selected by a caucus of Republican council members to replace Mr Rochman. Mr Meyer, is also a longtime resident, who served on the Police Commission for many years.

“He can certainly hold his own,” joked Mrs Pilchard.

Mr Meyer, who is serving out Mr Rochman’s term, is a candidate for the Legislative Council in District 1.

 

Tax Incentive Plan

The Council also voted to approve the tax incentive plan proposed by the Economic Development Commission. The plan simply would give the town a “policy” where it had the option of offering prospective new businesses some short-term tax savings. The Legislative Council would still be able to take up each application on a case-by-case basis, or if it chooses, simply eliminate the plan at any time.

“It’s something we should have available, but on a limited basis. I would hope it would not turn into an entitlement,” Mr Studley said.

First Selectman Herb Rosenthal said state statutes already enable towns to provide tax incentives.

“You could offer this stuff now, but then it would be truly arbitrary. There really should be some framework,” he said.

Joe Borst said the EDC’s plan was nothing more than a policy that the town could use as it sees fit.

EDC Chairman A. Winthrop Ballard said prospective new businesses often inquire as to whether the town has an incentive plan.

Two Ordinances Approved

The council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance for tax relief to surviving spouses of police officers or fire fighters who die in the line of duty. It also approved an ordinance that exempts vehicle equipped for transporting those with disabilities from taxation.

The council also approved the discontinuance of Old Highway Road between Scudder Road and Head O’ Meadow Road.

The council also discussed the minutes from the September 19 meeting. Some members – particularly Doug Brennan – felt the minutes do not accurately reflective what went on. The minutes will be re-examined and approved at the council’s next meeting.