The New Canaan Board of Selectmen held its regular meeting on Tuesday morning, October 21, 2025, at Town Hall and via Zoom, covering a full agenda of town business ranging from infrastructure repairs to staffing updates and park improvements.
First Selectman Dionna Carlson, joined by Selectmen Stephen Karl and Amy Murphy-Carroll, presided over the hybrid session, which was attended by department heads, representatives from the Waveny Park Conservancy, and members of the public.
Water Line and Cold Storage Projects Approved
Early in the meeting, the Board amended its agenda to address a water line replacement project at the Steve Benko Pool. Parks and Recreation Director John Howe and Superintendent of Buildings William Oestmann explained that a leak had been found beneath the pool’s deck area.
The Board approved two related contracts: Hussey Bros. Excavating LLC for $13,090, including contingency, and Modern Plumbing for an amount not to exceed $10,000. Both contracts were approved unanimously.
Mr. Oestmann also presented a contract with Hussey Bros. for $43,275 to reinforce the footing of a new cold-water storage building at the Highway Department, part of a broader facilities upgrade totaling about $140,000 for construction and $18,000 for demolition. The Board approved the request unanimously.
Police and Technology Requests Move Forward
Chief of Police John DiFederico received approval for the annual renewal of the Flock Safety License Plate Recognition system at a cost of $28,000, funded through the FY26 operating budget. The Board also approved travel expenses for three officers to attend upcoming training sessions in Rhode Island and at Mohegan Sun.
Information Technology Director Chris Kaiser presented two items that were both approved:
• A three-year contract with Total Communications for $156,199.04 to renew Cisco phone system licenses, and
• A contract with CDW-G for $24,948.48 to renew the town’s Rubrik backup system and add Rubrik Cloud Vault.
Waveny Park Conservancy Shares Plans
Fell Herdeg and Michelle Crookenden of the Waveny Park Conservancy outlined proposed improvements to reduce the noise and visual impact of the Merritt Parkway trail. Working with Heritage Landscapes, the group is exploring an earthen berm and landscape design to enhance the trail between Lapham Road and South Avenue. The project is estimated to cost $2.5 to $3.5 million, with possible town contributions over time.
Staffing and Administrative Updates
The Board approved the hiring of Kelsi McCarthy as Sanitarian Health Program Planner I.
Human Resources Director Cheryl Jones reported on the Town Clerk’s Office, noting that 180 résumés had been received to fill vacant positions. The Board expressed disappointment that the review process had been delayed but agreed to hold a special meeting once hiring recommendations are ready.
The Board also approved Doug Simpson’s appointment to the Utilities Commission and expressed appreciation to outgoing commissioner Tom Turrentine for his service.
Routine Approvals and Upcoming Events
Routine approvals included $15,317.38 in overpayments, $8,829.92 in uncollectable taxes transferred to the Suspense Book, 25 contracts under $10,000 totaling $81,861.45, and legal bills of $40,545.76.
Ms. Carlson reminded the Board that the next meeting will be held Monday, November 3, due to Election Day, and noted that the Veterans Day Ceremony will take place on the steps of Town Hall for improved accessibility. She also shared that feedback on the new parking initiative has been positive and thanked residents for supporting the recent Waveny Park car show fundraiser.
The next Board of Selectmen meeting Monday, November 3rd at 8:30am.
