A screen shot from the meeting.
The Ansonia Board of Aldermen met virtually on Tuesday (Jan. 8). Here’s a few highlights:
WPCA Sale: Inching Forward
Last month, the Aldermen voted to put the WPCA – the sewer system – up for sale.
According to Ansonia City Corporation Counsel John Marini, a walkthrough on Jan. 4 attracted at least one bidder, though no proposals have yet been received.
Qualified firms have until Tuesday, Jan. 16 to submit proposals.
A legal notice was posted by the city last month, which can be read here.
Bonds, Grants, And More Bonds
Marini said the city has ordered three new fire trucks within the last month, using money from a bonding project passed by voters on Nov. 7, 2023. The firetrucks could take two or more years to arrive. Wait times have been long due to a post-pandemic boom in demand, with Connecticut cities experiencing multiyear delays between orders and arrival.
Marini also outlined plans for future projects, including the addition of surveillance cameras in the school and around the city, as well as the construction of a new animal shelter. He said the city is considering several funding options for these plans, but that bonding will likely cover the majority of the costs.
Ansonia Economic Development Director Sheila O’Malley said that the design for the Riverwalk’s 1.7‑mile extension to Nolan Road is currently out to bid, but also that the city may require more money to fund it. She said the city will attempt to fund the bidding through additional grants.
Wakelee Woes
Fifth Ward Alderman Chicago Rivers asked about the property on 557 Wakelee Ave. In 2022, the city approved its redevelopment into a rest stop and gas station, but, aside from some outside work and a new paint job, the property looks about the same now as it did then. O’Malley didn’t have an update but would check on the project and get back to the board.
Officials said the Connecticut Department of Transportation may soon step in to fix longstanding drainage issues at 176 Franklin St. According to the DOT, the undersized pipes there — which carry stormwater from Wakelee Avenue and Franklin Street — have caused sinkholes and falling trees. The city administration will be meeting with the DOT next week to discuss fixing the pipes.
Around Town
Ansonia resident Dena Connacher was awarded a Key to the City, in thanks for her service picking up trash around town. Since arriving in Ansonia in 2021, she has made a habit of cleaning the town’s litter as she goes about her day.
The animal shelter is currently asking for donations of blankets and towels. Donations can be dropped off at the shelter (1 North Division St).
