TOWN COUNCIL ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Focused on Long Term Economic Vitality:

• Began updating zoning regulations to implement the Plan of Conservation and Development
• Completed thorough traffic study of the downtown area
• Initiated a Request for Proposal to integrate diverse business and pedestrian needs and provide a vibrant, thriving downtown
• Sold land on Western Blvd for $3.87 million
• Improved crosswalks, town center lighting and plantings
• Welcomed Whole Foods Market and Eric Town Square

Improved Communication with Residents:

• Completed redesign of the Town of Glastonbury web site
• Expanded public hearing process to ensure comments are heard and information is provided
• Provided informational brochures and periodic newsletters to all residents
• Maintained inclusive, collaborative, bipartisan decision-making

Made Optimum Long Term Land Use Decisions:

• Strategically acquired over 400 acres of land
• Began extensive multi use trail system and resident initiated Dog Park      
• Constant attention to open space preservation and land use organization partnerships

Reduced Tax Impact:

• Reaffirmed AAA bond rating, which recognizes outstanding financial practices, and maintains lowest interest rate on town debt
• Refunded bonds, achieving $755,000 in savings
• Implemented cost avoidance and savings initiatives totaling $1million
• Improved the budget process to balance the needs of our community with the importance of every tax dollar
• Worked closely with each agency to ensure efficiency and effective practices

Continued to be a State Recognized Leader in Energy Conservation, Alternate Energy and Green Initiatives:

• Participation in the Connecticut Clean Energy Program by the town, over 500 residents, and Glastonbury businesses
• Use of natural gas fueling station for our vehicles, and biodiesel alternatives
• Cooperatively purchased electricity, natural gas, heating oil and motor fuel 
• Completed energy audit and implemented efficiency measures in all town buildings
• Achieved 11% system wide fuel reduction

Worked Together to Improve and Enjoy Our Town:

• Completed Riverfront Park Phase I, with $2.3 million available for Phase II.  This Park will make recreational opportunities available for all residents
• Worked in partnership with community organizations to enhance the GHS athletic complex with a turf field, new track, concession stand and press box
• Installed extensive sidewalks throughout our community
• Improved street paving program to maintain our roads
• Enhanced open space access