The Enfield Town Council has proposed a major addition to the public safety complex that is described as a “state-of-the-art training center” and wants residents to weigh in on it.
The addition, if it were ultimately approved, would be built on town-owned land, adjacent to the existing public safety facility.
The council set Aug. 29 as the date for the public hearing during which residents will be able to voice their thoughts on the proposed facility,
Council member Nick Hopkins said that a similar proposal was previously shot down, but that he’s glad it’s back before residents.
“There are compelling public interest needs for this,” Hopkins said. “I think it’s really important that it goes back to the public to consider, because it is in the public’s hands.”
Council member Michael Ludwick questioned whether funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, totaling $2.5 million, remain available. He also wanted the current plans made available to the public.
“I’m all for the project. I think it’s a great project,” Ludwick said. “However, we’re rushing this in August, and the public hasn’t seen [the [plans]. Do we have these things in writing? These are some big questions.”
Town Manager Ellen Zoppo-Sassu said the information is going to be publicized, and that the funds are still in place from the state.
“The funds are still there, and there’s a penciled-in ‘Enfield,'” Zoppo-Sassu said. “But, it’s not in pen. So, if it passes this time, those funds come to Enfield. If it doesn’t pass this time, those funds will be retracted and given to another community.”
Zoppo-Sassu said the project would have an elevated cost of about $100,000.
Council member Cynthia Mangini said that, in her opinion, the previous referendum failed because that particular vote was overwhelmed with other projects, but also because there was not enough information shared. Had there been more, she said, the project may have passed.
“I don’t think we marketed it effectively,” Mangini said. “Enfield would be well-served to be a recipient of more funding, and we would benefit from other town use, should this pass. We really and truly do need this complex. I’m encouraging that we go forward, and that the public understand a little better of why and how this project will be presented.”
The council voted 9-1, with Ludwick the lone dissenting vote, for the public hearing to take place on Aug. 29. For more information, visit www.enfield-ct.gov.
