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Town Ordinances

Town Ordinances

Section 1 - Position Appointments / Town Commissions And Boards

1-1 Adoption of the Board of Finance

1-1 Adoption of the Board of Finance

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Resolved, that the Town of Stafford hereby establishes a Board of Finance, under the provisions of Chapter 28 of the General Statutes, and more particularly Section 413 of the General Statutes, Revision of 1930 as amended.

Date Recorded: March 23, 1939
1-2 Appointment of Alternate Members to Board of Finance
1-2 Appointment of Alternate members of the Board of Finance
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As provided in Chapter 106, Section 7-340a of the General Statutes, Revision of 1977, the Board of Selectmen shall have the power to appoint three alternate members to the Board of Finance subject to the provisions of Section 9-167a concerning minor representation of political parties.

Date: February 23, 1978
1-4 Planning and Zoning (Alternate Members)
1-4 Planning and Zoning (Alternate members)
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Voted to adopt an Ordinance authorizing the Board of Selectmen to appoint four  alternate members to the Planning and Zoning Commission as provided in Chapter 124, Section 8-1b of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Amended at Town meeting 1-26-06
Published 2-1-06
Effective 2-16-06
1-5 Filling of Vacancies on the Planning and Zoning Commission
1-5 Filling of vacancies on the Planning & Zoning Commission

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All vacancies which occur on the Planning and Zoning Commission shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen. The vacancy shall be filled with a person in accordance with Connecticut General Statute 9-167a, concerning minority representation.

Date Adopted: September 19, 1978
1-6 Establish a Commission of the Arts

1-6 Establish a Commission of the Arts

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Section 1. There is hereby established a Commission of the Arts for the Town of Stafford. The Commission shall consist of eleven (11) members who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve without compensation. The term of office for each member shall be for three years or until their successors are duly appointed and qualified, except that the members of the commission first appointed shall be appointed, four for three years, four for two years, and three for one year. Their term of office shall commence March 1, 1971. Vacancies in the Arts Commission shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the unexpired term. A temporary Chairman shall be appointed by the Selectmen to serve for six months. At that time and annually thereafter, the members of the Arts Commission shall meet and elect one of their members Chairman and other officers they deem necessary.

Section 2.   Duties and Powers of Commission - Said Commission shall encourage, within the Town, participation of all age groups in the promotion, development, acceptance and appreciation of, artistic and cultural activities which shall include, but are not limited to music, theater, dance, painting, sculpture, architecture, literature, films and allied arts and crafts and to this end may join with private patrons, individual artists and ensembles and with institutions, local sponsoring organizations and professional organizations.

Section 3.   Said Commission shall maintain a survey of public and private facilities engaged within the Town in artistic and cultural activities and determine the needs of the citizens of this Town and the method by which existing resources may be utilized, or new resources developed, to fulfill these needs.

Section 4.   The Arts Commission may advertise, prepare, print and distribute such materials as a calendar of events which will further its ends and purpose.

Section 5.   Said Arts Commission shall submit a recommended budget each year to the Board of Selectmen and said Board of Selectmen shall incorporate it into the annual budget as modified by said Board of Selectmen for which purposes the Town of Stafford is hereby authorized to make appropriations.

Section 6.   The Arts Commission with the consent of the Board of Selectmen shall have the authority to appoint or designate one individual to act as Director of Arts, without salary, who shall be properly trained and qualified in accordance with such standards as the Arts Commission shall establish, and may engage such other personnel as it deems necessary and proper for the carrying out of its function.

Section 7.   The acquisition or leasing of such facilities, their maintenance, policing and safety and the hiring of necessary personnel and purchasing of equipment to carry out this purpose shall be under the jurisdiction of the Board of Selectmen. The Board

of Selectmen shall submit a budget to the Board of Finance each year for this purpose to be incorporated in the annual budget for which purpose the Town of Stafford is hereby authorized to make appropriations.

Section 8.   The Arts Commission shall make such reports to the Board of Selectmen as such Board shall request from time to time.

Date Adopted: February 3, 1971
1-7 Creating an Economic Development Commission
1-7 Creating an Economic Development Commission

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RESOLVED:
That the town vote to establish an Economic Development Commission in accordance with Section 7-136 of the CT General Statutes and enact an ordinance in pursuance thereof.

  1. The Town of Stafford hereby establishes an Economic Development Commission in accordance with Section 7-136 of the Connecticut General Statutes; hereinafter in the ordinance referred to as the "Commission."
  2. The Commission shall consist of nine (9) members who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen for the term of five years, except that of those first appointed, the term of two shall expire on July 1, 2005, two others shall expire on July 1, 2006, two others on July 1, 2007, and the term of the remaining member shall expire on July 1, 2008. The term of the two (2) additional members shall expire on July 1, 2009.
  3. The Commission shall meet at least quarterly.
  4. Any vacancy shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the unexpired portion of the term.
  5. Annually, during the month of June, the Board of Selectmen shall designate one of the Commission members as its chairperson who shall serve for a one year term commencing July 1 of that year and expiring on June 30 of the following year.
  6. The Commission is empowered to conduct research into the economic conditions and trends of the town, to make recommendations regarding action to improve its economic condition and development, to coordinate the activities of and cooperate with other bodies organized to promote such economic development, to advertise and prepare, print and distribute information which will further its official purposes, and to prepare an annual report of its activities and of its recommendations for improving such economic conditions and development.
Adopted: 3-31-2004
Published: 4-5-04
Amended 8-21-06
1-8 Create Stafford Inland Wetlands Commission

1-8    Create Stafford Inland Wetlands Commission

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  1. Pursuant to "The Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Act" of the State of Connecticut, No. 155 of the 1972 Public Acts as amended (herein referred to the Act") and in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes 22a-42 there is hereby established, in the Town of Stafford, a Commission to be known as the "Stafford Inland Wetlands Commission" and hereinafter known as "the Commission".
  2. The Commission shall consist of seven regular members (7) and three (3) alternate members each of whom shall be an elector of the Town of Stafford and all of whom shall be appointed for a term of two years by the Board of Selectmen. The members of the commission shall serve without compensation but shall be entitled to reimbursement for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.
  3. Any vacancy on the Commission shall be filled for the unexpired term of such member by appointment of the Board of Selectmen.
  4. As soon as possible after the full membership of the Commission has been appointed, such members shall meet for the purpose of organizing and shall elect from their number a Chairman, a Vice- Chairman and a Secretary and shall have the power to employ staff personnel to carry out the function of the Commission subject to the approval of the Board of Selectmen.
  5. As soon as possible after its organization the Commission shall promulgate regulations for implementation of the aforesaid Public Act 155 in accordance with procedures set forth in said Act and the regulations promulgated pursuant thereto by the Commission of the Department of Environmental Protection.

Date originally Adopted: May 1, 1974
Amended at Town Meeting May 13, 2010
Effective June 3, 2010

1-9 Resolution to Authorize the Housing Authority of Town
1-9 Resolution to Authorize the Housing Authority of Town

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Whereas:
The governing body of the Town of Stafford has taken into consideration the availability and monthly cost of rental housing, the degree of overcrowding, the percentage of land coverage, the light air space and access available to the inhabitants of such dwelling accommodations, the size of the rooms, the sanitary facilities and the extent to which conditions exist in such buildings which may endanger life or property by fire or other causes in the Town of Stafford.

Now Therefore Be It Resolved: The governing body of the Town of Stafford does find:

That unsanitary or unsafe inhabited dwelling accommodations exist in the Town of Stafford. That there is a shortage of safe or sanitary dwelling accommodations in the Town of Stafford available to families or low-income rentals they can afford.

That there is a shortage of safe or sanitary dwelling accommodations in the Town of Stafford available to families of moderate income at rentals they can afford.

And Be It Further Resolved: That the governing body of the Town of Stafford does hereby declare that there is a need for a Housing Authority in the Town of Stafford based upon the aforementioned findings. The Board of Selectmen hereby authorizes the establishment of a Housing Authority.

Date: January 31, 1966
1-10 Establish a Recreation Commission
1-10 Establish a Recreation Commission

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Section 1:
 There is hereby established a Town Recreation Commission for the Town of Stafford as provided in Chapter 98 of the General Statutes, Revision of 1958, as amended. The Commission shall consist of nine members who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve without compensation. The term of office for each member shall be for five years or until their successors are duly appointed and qualified, except that he members of the commission first appointed shall be appointed, two for five years; two for four years; two for three years; two for two years; and one for one year term. Their term of office shall commence October 15, 1963. Vacancies in the Recreation Commission shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the unexpired term.

Immediately after their appointment, the members of the Recreation Commission shall meet and elect one of their members chairman and any other officers they deem necessary. The member from the Board of Selectmen with membership on the Commission shall forfeit such membership upon termination of his office on the Board of Selectmen.

Section 2: The Recreation Commission shall conduct and supervise public playgrounds,
play fields, indoor recreation areas owned or controlled by the Town or on
properties leased by the Town for such purposes and on private properties
with the consent of the owners thereof. It shall have the power to conduct any
form of recreation or cultural activities that will improve the leisure time of
the people of the Town of Stafford in a constructive or wholesome manner.

Section 3. Said Recreation Committee shall submit a recommended budget each year to
the Board of Selectmen and said Board of Selectmen shall incorporate it into the annual
town budget as modified by said Board of Selectmen for which purposes the Town of
Stafford is hereby authorized to make appropriations.

Date Adopted: September 25, 1963
1-11 Amendment to Recreation Commission Ordinance
1-11 Amendment to Recreation Commission Ordinance
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Section 1
of the ordinance creating the Stafford Recreation Commission is hereby amended to read as follows:

Section 1: There is hereby established a Town Recreation Commission for the Town of Stafford as provided in Chapter 98, Section 7-148 of the General Statutes, Revision of 1958, as amended. The Commission shall consist of twelve members who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve without compensation. The term of office for each member shall be for five years or until their successors are duly appointed and qualified, except that the members of the Commission first appointed shall be appointed, two for five years; two for four years; two for three years; two for two years; and one for one year term. Their term of office shall commence October 15, 1963. Vacancies in the Recreation Commission shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the unexpired term.

Immediately after their appointment, the members of the Recreation Commission shall meet and elect one of their members chairman and any other officers they deem necessary. The member from the Board of Selectmen with membership on the Commission shall forfeit such membership upon the termination of his office on the Board of Selectmen.

2. Of the additional three members created by this amendment one shall be appointed to a term to expire October 14, 1969, and one to a term to expire October 14, 1970.

Date Adopted: December 13, 1967
1-12 Resolution Creating a Town Conservation Commission
1-12 Resolution Creating a Town Conservation Commission

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RESOLVED:


  1. There is hereby established a Town Conservation Commission of 7 members to be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and to serve without pay.
  2. The terms of office for each member shall be three years or until their successors are duly appointed and qualified except that two of the 7 members of the commission first appointed shall be appointed for 3 year terms, 2 shall be for 2 year terms and 3 shall be for a one year term. Vacancies in the commission shall be filled by the First Selectman for the remainder of the unexpired term.
  3. Immediately after their appointment, the members of the commission shall meet and elect one of their members Chairman and such other officers as they shall deem necessary.
  4. The Conservation Commission shall have such powers and duties as shall be prescribed in the Connecticut General Statutes.
  5. Any land acquired by the Commission for conservation purposes shall be under the supervision and control of the Board of Selectmen.

Date Adopted: January 27, 1969
1-13 Expanding Town Conservation Commission
1-13 Expanding Town Conservation Commission
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Be it ordained by legislative meeting of the Town of Stafford:

 
Section 1. This ordinance modifies and supersedes where applicable the Resolution creating a Town Conservation Commission, adopted January 27, 1969.
 
Section 2. There shall be a Stafford Conservation Commission consisting of 11 members and 3 alternates.
 
Section 3. The terms of office of each member shall be for a period of 3 years, except that the 4 newly created positions and the three alternates shall serve concurrent terms with the remainder of the existing commission's unexpired term. At the expiration of such term, the First Selectman, in accordance with C.G.S. 7-131a shall appoint the entire Commission consisting of 11 members and 3 alternates to successive 3-year terms.
 
Section 4. The Conservation Commission shall have such powers and duties as shall be prescribed in the Connecticut General Statutes.
 
Date Recorded: May 29, 1985
1-14 Municipal Flood and Erosion Control Board
1-14 Municipal Flood and Erosion Control Board
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Pursuant to the authority granted by CGS 25-84, the Board of Selectmen is hereby empowered to act as the Municipal Flood and Erosion Control Board for the Town of Stafford, with all the powers as provided in CGS 25-85 through 25-94, inclusive.

Date Recorded: December 2, 1988
1-15 Hyde Park Trustee
1-15 Hyde Park Trustee
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Be it resolved that a Trustee of the Hyde Park Fund shall be chosen by the Hyde Park Commission, under the provisions of the late Isaac Perkins Hyde, and the said Trustee shall serve until its successor is appointed. The Trustee shall pay over the income from the Hyde Park Fund at least yearly to the Treasurer of the Town of Stafford, who acts on behalf of said Hyde Park Commission.

Effective Date: October 22, 1980
1-16 Stafford Events & Celebrations Committee
1-16 Stafford Events & Celebrations Committee
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1-16      Stafford Events & Celebrations Committee

There shall be an Events & Celebrations Committee to remain in existence until dissolved by the Board of Selectmen. This committee will be comprised of creative, responsible, and hands-on volunteers wanting to build upon the Town of Stafford’s signature events and grow new opportunities for community gatherings. The goal of this committee is to coordinate meaningful events and celebrations which benefit residents and businesses of Stafford while generating positive publicity, tourism, and community engagement opportunities. This committee will work in conjunction with the Grants & Community Relations Department. Committee members’ responsibilities include conceptualizing, managing, planning, logistics, and marketing events sponsored by the Town of Stafford.

Each January, the Town Events Committee shall come before the Board of Selectmen to present a budget with a list of events they would like to hold that fiscal year (July 1st – June 30th). The committee shall not expend any funds that have not been appropriated to them.

The events committee shall consist of 11 members to be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Five (5) members shall be appointed for an initial term of three (3) years and six (6) members shall be appointed for an initial term of four (4) years. Following the expiration of the initial terms, all members will be appointed for 5 years. The Board of Selectmen shall choose the chairman who will work as a liaison between the committee and First Selectman or his/her designee.

The Events Committee shall follow all recommended safety protocols for events as deemed necessary by the State and/or local police department. The committee shall schedule any use of town property for events through the First Selectman’s Office and shall work with the Town’s Grants & Community Relations Department to complete branding and marketing initiatives. 

this new ordinance to replace civic & community affairs commission ordinance.

Approved at Town meeting 7-27-2022

Published 8-11-2022

Effective 8-26-2022

1-17 Registrar of Voters - Term of Office
1-17 Registrar of Voters - Term of Office

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RESOLVED:
The Registrars of Voters of the Town of Stafford, at the next succeeding regular election for such office and thereafter, shall be elected for a term of four years. Pursuant to Section 9-189a of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Date: July 20, 1984
1-18 Number of Justices of the Peace
1-18 Number of Justices of the Peace

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Resolved:
The number of Justices of the Peace for the Town of Stafford, to be elected at the next succeeding regular election for such office and thereafter, shall be fifty-four (54). Pursuant to Section 9-183a of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Date: July 20, 1984
Amended: 4-22-04
1-19 Legal Action Between Town Boards and Commissions
1-19 Legal Action Between Town Boards and Commissions
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That no board or commission of the Town of Stafford can take any legal action against another board or commission without prior approval of the Board of Selectmen.

Date: June 29, 1978
1-20 Emergency Services Commission

1-20   Emergency Services Commission
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An Emergency Services Commission shall be established consisting of eight members. The Stafford Fire Dept. No. 1, West Stafford Fire Dept. and the Stafford Ambulance Association. Shall each select one member and the Board of Selectmen shall select four members. The Emergency Management Director shall also be a member.

The Commission shall prepare and present a budget for the Town of Stafford Emergency Services Commission to the Board of Selectmen.

All funds allocated for Emergency Services shall be provided to the Emergency Services Commission for distribution to the various fire departments and ambulance association at the sole discretion of the aforesaid Commission. In addition to the budgetary function, the Emergency Services Commission shall have the authority to advise the Board of Selectmen on any and all topics or issues concerning the Fire Departments or Ambulance Service within the Town of Stafford.

The Emergency Services Commission shall also consist of alternates as follows: three alternate members appointed at large by the Board of Selectmen, and one alternate appointed from each of the fire departments, ambulance service and a deputy Emergency Management Director. If a regular member from the Emergency Services Commission is absent from the meeting, the alternate from the same organization may serve in his place. If one public member is absent, the chairman may choose an alternate to serve in his place.

This ordinance shall be effective fifteen (15) days from publication.

Adopted at Town Meeting: February 6, 2001

Date Published: February 12, 2001

Amended November 9, 2023

Published 11-30-2023

Effective 12-15-2023

 

1-21 Appointed Assessor Ordinance
1-21 Appointed Assessor Ordinance
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Section I: APPOINTED


Pursuant to Section 9-198 of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, the Board of Selectmen shall appoint an assessor to a two-year term of office. The initial term of office shall commence on July 1, 2003. All subsequent appointments shall be for two year terms commencing on July 1, 2005, and the terms of the assessors now in office or elected to such office shall terminate on June 30, 2003.

Section II: POWERS AND DUTIES

Such assessor shall have all the powers and duties imposed by the General Statutes on such office.

Section III: COMPENSATION

The salary or compensation of such assessor shall be fixed by the Board of Selectmen, subject to approval by the Board of Finance and Annual Town meeting or Budget Referendum.

Section IV: QUALIFICATIONS
 
The assessor shall be chosen on the basis of his or her administrative ability, character, knowledge, education and shall have the designation of Certified Connecticut Municipal Assessor and shall not serve on any regular town board or commission or hold any other elective or appointed office within the town.

Section V: VACANCY
 
The assessor so appointed by the Board of Selectmen may be removed by a majority vote therefore upon a finding of cause for such removal. Upon the removal or resignation of the assessor, the Board of Selectmen shall appoint another person to fill such vacancy and complete the remainder of the term of office left uncompleted by reason of such removal or resignation.

Adopted Town Meeting June 3, 2003
Published in Journal Inquirer June 9, 2003
1-22 Establishing an Aquifer Protection Agency

1-22 Establishing an Aquifer Protection Agency

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WHEREAS, Section 22a-354o of the Connecticut General Statutes ("Conn. Gen. Stat.") provides that each municipality in which an aquifer protection area is located shall authorize by ordinance an existing board or commission to act as an aquifer protection agency; and

WHEREAS, it has been determined that it is in the best interest of the town of Stafford to designate the Planning & Zoning Commission as the town's aquifer protection agency.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN OF STAFFORD THAT:

(1)   Designation and membership

(a)   In accordance with the provisions of Conn. Gen. Stat. ' 22a-354a, et seq., the   Planning & Zoning Commission is hereby designated as the Aquifer Protection Agency (hereinafter the "Agency") of the Town of Stafford. The staff of the Planning & Zoning Commission shall serve as the staff of the Agency.

(b)   Members of the Planning & Zoning Commission shall serve coexisting terms on the Agency.  The membership requirements of the Agency shall be the same as those of the Planning & Zoning Commission including, but not limited to the number of members, terms, method of selection and removal of members, and filling of vacancies.

(c)   At least one member of the Agency or staff of the Agency shall complete the course in technical training formulated by the Commissioner of Environmental Protection of the State of Connecticut, pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. 22a-354v.

(2)   Regulations to be adopted

(a)   The Agency shall adopt regulations in accordance with Conn. Gen. Stat. 22a-354p and Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies (R.C.S.A.) 22a-354i-3.  Said regulations shall provide for:

(i)      The manner in which boundaries of aquifer protection areas shall be established and amended or changed.

(ii)    Procedures for the regulation of activity within the area.

(iii)   The form for an application to conduct regulated activities within the area.

(iv)  Notice and publication requirements.

(v)    Criteria and procedures for the review of applications.

(vi)  Administration and enforcement.

(3)   Inventory of Land Use

(a)   In order to carry out the purposes of the Aquifer Protection Program, the Agency will conduct an inventory of land use within the area to assess potential contamination sources.

(b)   Not later than three months after approval by the Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection of Level B Mapping of aquifers, the Agency will inventory land uses overlying the mapped zone of contribution and recharge areas of such aquifers in accordance with guidelines established by the Commissioner pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. 22a-354f.  Such inventory shall be completed not more than one year after authorization of the Agency.  [Conn. Gen. Stat. 22a-354e]

Approved at Town Meeting 12-20-05
Published 12-24-05
Effective 1-10-06

1-23 Ordinance Creating A Stafford Public Library Board
1-23 Ordinance Creating A Stafford Public Library Board
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  1. ESTABLISHMENT OF A BOARD.  There is hereby established a Stafford Library Board. Said Board shall oversee the operation of the Stafford Public Library, shall set general policies for the operation of said Library, and shall make rules and regulations for the operation of said Library.
  2. MEMBERSHIP. Said Board shall consist of five (5) members, two (2) of whom are nominated by the Board of Selectmen and appointed by the Stafford Town Meeting (legislative body, and three (3) of whom are nominated by the Stafford Library Association and appointed by the Stafford Town Meeting (legislative body). None of the members who are nominated by the Board of Selectmen shall be members of the Stafford Library Association or any other group which is affiliated with the Stafford Public Library.
  3. TERMS OF OFFICE. Prior to December 1, 2009, the Board of Selectmen shall nominate one member for a term of office beginning on December 1, 2009 and ending on November 30, 2011, and one member for a term of office beginning on December 1, 2009 and ending on November 30, 2012. Prior to December 1, 2009, the Stafford Library Association shall nominate one member for a term of office beginning on December 1, 2009 and ending on November 30, 2010, one member for a term of office beginning on December 1, 2009 and ending on November 30, 2011, and one member for a term of office beginning on December 1, 2009 and ending on November 30, 2012. Prior to the expiration of any of the above terms, and prior to the expiration of any succeeding terms, the Board of Selectmen and the Stafford Library Association shall nominate a member to the Board, which shall serve for a three (3) year term beginning on December 1, of that year.
  4. MEETINGS. The Stafford Public Library Board shall hold regular meetings once a month, and may hold special meetings from time to time as may be required.
  5. OFFICERS. The Board shall elect from its members a Chairman, a Secretary and a Treasurer, who shall each perform the usual duties of a chairman, a secretary, and a treasurer of a public agency. The Chairman shall be chosen from among the members of the Board who were nominated by the Stafford Library Association. The Chairman shall only vote in the event there is a tie.
  6. BUDGET. The Director of the Stafford Public Library shall each year prepare an estimate of the expenditures and income of the Stafford Public Library for the next succeeding fiscal year. Said estimate shall be submitted to the Board which shall review and may modify said estimate. The Board shall submit its estimate to the Stafford Board of Finance prior to February 15 before the next succeeding fiscal year. Upon recommendation by the Stafford Board of Finance and approval by the Stafford Town Meeting, the amounts so recommended and approved shall become the budget for the Stafford Public Library. After approval of said budget, the Board may transfer expenditures from one line of the Stafford Public Library budget to another, as long as the total amount approved is not exceeded, except that no expenditures shall be transferred from a non-salary line to the part-time and full time salary lines without the approval of the Board of Finance.
  7. GENERAL POWERS. The Board shall have the following general powers:
  8. Making of Rules and Regulations for the operation of the Stafford Public Library;
  9. Entering into contracts on behalf of the Town of Stafford for the provisions of library services for the Town of Stafford;
  10. Interview and recommend candidates for a Director for the operation of the Stafford Public Library to the Board of Selectmen. The candidate hired shall be subject to the personnel policies of the Town of Stafford and the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement between the Town of Stafford and the union representing the Supervisors & professionals of the Town of Stafford.  
  11. Determining the hours of operation of the Stafford Public Library;
  12. Hiring individuals to be employees of the Stafford Public Library and determining the hours that each of said employees shall work. All employees hired shall be subject to the personnel policies of the Town of Stafford and the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement between the Town of Stafford and the union representing the employees of the Stafford Public Library.
  13. Whatever other powers are necessary and appropriate for the smooth and efficient administration of the Stafford Public Library.     

Adopted 11-12-09
Amended 2-10-2011
Effective March 5, 2011

1-24 Veterans Advisory Committee
1-24 Veterans Advisory Committee 

1-24 Ordinance Creating a Veteran’s Advisory Committee

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  1. There is hereby established a Stafford Veteran’s Advisory Committee.
  2. Said Committee shall consist of five (5) members who are appointed by the Board of Selectmen for two (2) year terms beginning on March 1, 2014, and on March 1 of every even numbered year thereafter.
  3. Said Committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
  4. To act as the coordinating agency in all matters concerning veterans and their dependents, and to coordinate the activities of public and private facilities concerned with veterans’ reemployment, education, rehabilitation and adjustment to peacetime living;
  5. To cooperate with all national, state and local governmental and private agencies in securing services and benefits to which a veteran or his dependents may be entitled;
  6. To use the services and facilities of the veterans organizations so far a possible to carry out the purpose of this ordinance;
  7. To encourage and coordinate vocational training services for veterans; and
  8. Any other duties and responsibilities which are authorized by Section 27-102l of the Connecticut General Statutes.
  9. The Town of Stafford may, acting through its Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance and town meeting, appropriate the necessary funds so that the Committee can carry out its duties and responsibilities.

Approved at Town Meeting April 10, 2014

Published: April 16, 2014

Effective 15 days from the date of publication (May 1, 2014)

Amended 7-27-2022 -Amended to increase the members from 3 to 5 members

1-25 Stafford Agricultural Commission

1-25 Stafford Agricultural Commission 

 1-25       STAFFORD AGRICULTURE COMMISSION

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ESTABLISHMENT

In accordance with CGS 7-131v there shall be established an Agriculture Commission to be designated as the “Stafford Agriculture Commission” (hereinafter referred to as the “Agriculture Commission”).

MEMBERSHIP; APPOINTMENTS AND VACANCIES; TERMS

The Agriculture Commission will consist of 7 members and 2 alternates appointed by The Board of Selectmen in accordance to Connecticut General Statutes. Insofar as practical, members appointed shall be representative of all groups interested in the management, protection and regulation of agriculture, as defined by Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 1 Section 1-1q, particularly those directly involved in agriculture, including there shall be an ad hoc seat for one FFA (Future Farmers of America) or 4-H member for a term of one year who shall be non-voting member but eligible to fully participate in all discussions.

The failure of a voting member to attend four (4) consecutive meetings of the commission may constitute cause for the Board of Selectmen to remove the member and fill the position thus vacated. A chair, vice chair and a secretary will be appointed by its members and will serve for a term of one year, except for the 1st year the Board of Selectmen will appoint the Chairperson.

 LENGTH OF TERM: Staggered 2-year terms, with initial appointments to be 4 members for 2 years and 3 members for 1 year; 1 alternate to be for 2 years and 1 alternate for 1 year. Members of the Commission shall serve without pay.

DUTIES: Advisory only

1) Provide information to local farmers and to municipal boards and commissions about the benefits of a balance between agriculture and other land uses; (2) educate municipal officials about agricultural laws and safety issues; (3) identify grant sources for farmers and municipalities; (4) enable a common understanding of agriculture among all municipal departments; (5) provide information and guidance about zoning issues relating to agriculture; (6) support local, regional and state vocational agricultural programs concerning agricultural matters; (7) provide conflict resolution and advisory services; (8) identify innovative opportunities for agriculture; and (9) create a climate that supports the economic viability of agriculture in the municipality.

 MEETINGS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The meetings of the Agriculture Commission shall be open to the public and it shall comply with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act.

Approved 4-12-2017

Effective 5-2-2017

1-26 Stafford Historic Advisory Commission
1-26 Stafford Historic Advisory Commission

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STAFFORD HISTORIC ADVISORY COMMISSION

ESTABLISHMENT/MISSION STATEMENT

To study and provide advice to the Board of Selectmen and the Planning and Zoning Commission on the use or disposition of selected Town-owned properties and buildings that are historically and culturally significant to the Town of Stafford.

MEMBERSHIP; APPOINTMENTS AND VACANCIES; TERMS:

The Stafford Historic Advisory Commission will consist of 7 electors of the Town of Stafford and 2 elector alternates appointed by The Board of Selectmen.  The terms shall be staggered 2-year terms, with initial appointments to be 4 members for 2 years and 3 members for 1 year; 1 alternate to be for 2 years and 1 alternate for 1 year.  All vacancies shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen.  Members of the Commission shall serve without pay.

The commission shall annually appoint a chair, vice chair and a secretary, who shall serve for a term of one year.  

DUTIES: In an advisory capacity the commission shall:

1) Provide information to municipal boards and commissions about the historic interest in certain properties; (2) identify grant sources for historic building preservation; (3) provide information and guidance about zoning issues relating to historic building use.

MEETINGS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The meetings of the Stafford Historic Advisory Commission shall be open to the public and shall comply with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act.

Approved at Town Meeting May 24, 2017
Published June 8, 2017
Effective June 23, 2017
1-27 Ordinance to Establish an American Rescue Plan Act Commission

ARPA Ordinance.pdf 

1-27 Ordinance to Establish an American Rescue Plan Act Commission

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There is hereby established a Municipal American Rescue Plan Act Commission created for the Town of Stafford to manage the disbursement of funds provided to the Town of Stafford under the American Rescue Plan Act. Working in the best interests of the community, the Commission will respond to the Covid-19 public health emergency and its negative economic impacts.

  1. The Commission shall consist of the following town officials and community members, who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen in accordance with the requirements of C.G.S. Sec. 9-167a and shall serve without compensation:
  2. The current Emergency Management Director
  3. The current Chief Financial Officer
  4. The current Town Clerk
  5. A current Law Enforcement Officer
  6. The current Water Pollution Control Superintendent
  7. The current Grant Writer & Marketing Specialist
  8. The current First Selectman
  9. A current Recreation Commissioner
  10. A current Board of Finance member
  11. A current member of the Stafford Public Health Community 
  12. In the event that any member of the Commission no longer holds the Town office which has qualified him/her to be a member of the Commission, then the term of said member shall end, and the Board of Selectmen shall fill said vacancy as provided herein.

 

  1. Vacancies on the Commission shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen, provided that any appointment shall be of an individual who holds one of the town positions which are described herein.

 

  1. The Commission will terminate at the time that all ARPA funds have been expended, and the commission has satisfied and fulfilled all grant obligations.

 

  1. The Commission shall appoint a chairperson from among its members.

 

  1. The Commission shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

 

  1. The Commission shall be the Grant Administrator for the ARPA funds.
  2. The Commission shall develop a multi-year spending plan.
  3. The Commission shall encourage, facilitate and solicit input from the community.
  4. The Commission shall educate the public via a hosted presentation and ARPA Fund updates.
  5. The Commission shall identify projects among categories of eligible use and follow current procurement procedure ordinances.
  6. The Commission will be responsible for appropriate use of funds, shall create internal local controls, shall document expenditures, and be subject to audit.

 

Approved: 9-29-2021

Posted: 10-1-2021

Effective: 10-16-2021

Section 2 - Planning And Zoning / Building

2-1 Planning and Zoning Ordinance

2-1 Planning and Zoning Ordinance
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RESOLVED: 
  That the Town of Stafford accept and adopt the State Enabling Legislation, in accordance with Chapter 124 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Revision of 1958, as amended, relating to zoning, planning and housing.

RESOLVED:   There shall be a Planning and Zoning Commission which shall consist of five members, who shall be electors of the Town of Stafford, and who shall be elected as provided by CGS 8-4a, none of whom shall hold any salaried public office or position in the Town of Stafford. The First Selectman shall also be a member of said Commission without voting privileges.

The Commission shall elect a chairman and secretary from its members and shall adopt rules for the transaction of business and shall keep a public record of its activities.

The term for appointed officials shall be until the biennial election of the Town of Stafford in 1963 and they shall be elected thereafter.

The unexpired term of a member shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the remainder of the term of appointment.

Each member may be removed for cause during the term of his appointment. Before removal, charges shall be presented to such member in writing and he shall be given reasonable opportunity to be heard in his own defense.

At the next biennial election in 1963, the Town shall elect five electors of such Town who shall constitute the Planning and Zoning Commission, two of whom shall be elected to serve until the next biennial election, two to serve until the second biennial election from such date. At each biennial election thereafter, the Town shall elect in the same manner as the Town officers are elected, two electors of such Town as members of such Planning and Zoning Commission to serve for six years when two terms end and one elector of such Town as a member of such Planning and Zoning Commission to serve for six years when one term ends.

RESOLVED: That the Town of Stafford empower the Planning and Zoning Commission to prepare and adopt, after public hearings duly held, a comprehensive Planning and Zoning code in accordance with Chapter 124 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Revision of 1958, as amended.

RESOLVED: There shall be a Zoning Board of Appeals which shall consist of five regular members and three alternate members. Such alternate members are otherwise referred to as the "Panel of Alternates", and shall, when seated, have all the powers and duties relating to the Zoning Board of Appeals and it's members. The regular members and the alternate members of such Zoning Board of Appeals shall be electors and shall not be members of the Planning and Zonning Commission.

The regular members and the alternate members shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. The term of the appointed officials shall be until the biennial election for the Town of Stafford in 1963 and they shall be elected thereafter.

Each member may be removed for cause during the term of his appointment. Before removal, charges shall be presented to such member and he shall be given reasonable opportunity to be heard in his own defense.

Any vacancy in such Board, including any vacancy in the Panel of Alternates shall be filled for the remainder of the term of appointment by the Board of Selectmen.

Such Board, by vote of it's regular members shall elect a chairman from among it's members and all meetings of such Board shall be held at the call of the chairman and at such other times as the Board determines and shall be open to the public. Such chairman, or in his absence, the acting chairman, may administer oaths and compel the attendance of witnesses. The Board shall keep minutes of it's proceedings, showing the vote of each member, when seated, upon each question, or if absent or failing to vote indicating such fact; and shall also keep such records of it's examinations and other official acts.

At the biennial election of 1963, the Town shall elect five electors of such Town who shall constitute the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Town shall elect three electors of such Town who shall constitute the Panel of Alternates. Two of the Zoning Board of Appeals shall be elected to serve until the next biennial election, two of said Board to serve until the second biennial election from such date and one of said Board to serve until the third biennial election from such date. One of the Panel of Alternates shall be elected to serve until the next biennial election, one of said Panel to serve until the second biennial election from such date and one of said Panel to serve until the third biennial election from such date. At each biennial election thereafter the Town shall elect, in the same manner as Town Officers are elected, two electors of such Town as members of such Zoning Board of Appeals to serve for six years when two terms end and one elector of such Town as a member of such Zoning Board of Appeals to serve for six years when one term ends; and one elector of such Town as a member of such Panel of Alternates to serve for six years.

Date: June 14, 1961

2-1a Amendment: Planning and Zoning Ordinance
2-1a Amendment: Planning and Zoning Ordinanceprintable pdf
  1. The language in Ordinance 2-1 shall be amended as follows:

RESOLVED: That he Town of Stafford accept and adopt the State Enabling Legislation, in accordance with Chapter 124 of the Connecticut General Statutes, revision of 1958, as amended, relating to zoning, planning and housing.

RESOLVED: There shall be a planning and zoning Commission which shall consist of five members, who shall be electors of the Town of Stafford, and who shall be elected as provided for by Connecticut General Statute, 8-4a, none of whom shall hold any salaried public office or position in the Town of Stafford. The First Selectman shall also be a member of said Commission without voting privileges.

The Commission shall elect a chairman and a secretary from it's members.

In the event of a vacancy, the unexpired term of a member shall be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the remainder of the term of appointment.

  1. All other language shall be deleted.

Date: February 25, 1999

2-2 Adopting the State Building Code

2-2 Adopting the State Building Code

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Pursuant to CGS Section 29-252a, as amended the Town of Stafford hereby adopts the State Building Code.

Each municipality, Town of Stafford, shall establish a schedule of fees for each construction document reviews, building permit, certificate of approval and certificate of occupancy.  A schedule of adopted fees is posted in the building department for public view.

Date: January 10, 2018
2-3 Prohibiting Building on Unaccepted Streets/Highways
2-3 Prohibiting Building on Unaccepted Streets/Highways
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  1. No building permit shall be issued for the erection of any structure on lots abutting streets or highways which have not been accepted by the Town of Stafford as public streets or highways, except that the Zoning Board of Appeals may allow the erection of a structure on lots abutting streets or highways which have not been accepted by the Town, providing that the structure is not located farther than the last existing structure on an unaccepted public street or highway measured from the existing entrance. Nothing shall prevent the issuance of a building permit for the construction of farm or accessory buildings which is accessory to the existing principal building(s), which are not in violation of any lawful zoning or building regulation of the Town of Stafford.
  2. Streets or highways which have not been accepted by the Town as public streets or highways may be serviced by the Town's Public Works Dept. at the discretion of the Board of Selectmen providing the residents pay a fee for such service to the Town of Stafford. Said service or repair shall not be construed as implied acceptance of the road by the Town of Stafford. Fees will be regulated by the Board of Selectmen.
  3. If the Board of Selectmen determines that any unapproved road requires repair or upgrading for safety reasons, the residents must pay the cost to the Town for such repairs or upgrading based on frontage owned.
Date Approved: October 6, 1994

Date Recorded: October 19, 1994   

2-4 Withholding of a Building Permit for Property on Which Property Taxes or Sewer Fees Are Delinquent
2-4 Withholding of a Building Permit for Property on Which Property Taxes or Sewer Fees Are Delinquent

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Pursuant to CGS 7-148(2)(B), the Building Official shall, prior to approving an application for a building permit and issuing the permit, determine whether any overdue property taxes or sewer fees are owed on the property which is the subject of the application.  The Building Official shall not approve or issue such permit until and unless all outstanding property taxes and sewer fees are paid in full.  Exceptions may be granted by the Building Official, with the advice and consent of the First Selectman, if the Building Official determines that the work to be performed is necessary to protect the health and safety of the occupants or the public, or in cases of extreme hardship, as approved by the Board of Selectmen.

Adopted: 5-4-04
Published: 5-10-04
2-5 Ordinance for Driveways
2-5 Ordinance for Driveways

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Section 1:
Purpose

The purpose of this ordinance is to enhance the character of public and private streets, maintain property values, and reduce erosion, sediment deposition, and drainage issues on public and private streets within the community. Existing wood paths, cart paths, or other pre-existing travel ways shall be required to meet the requirements of this ordinance at the time the property is improved or the use of the travel way negatively impacts an abutting property or street. Any or all sections of this ordinance may be waived on a case-by-case basis when the access is for agricultural purposes.

Section 2: Definitions

DRIVEWAY - A traveled way for vehicular access to and from public or private streets, with or without a curb cut.

CURB CUT - The opening along the gutter of a street where vehicles may enter or leave a public or private street.

Bituminous Concrete - For the purpose of this ordinance bituminous concrete shall mean a bituminous material such as crushed stone mixed with asphalt.

Bituminous Concrete Equivalent - For the purpose of this ordinance the equivalent to bituminous asphalt concrete shall be Portland cement concrete or modular pavers.

Section 3: Requirements

No person shall construct, reconstruct or relocate a driveway in the Town of Stafford without a permit from the Public Works Department. At a cost of $100.00 for new construction and relocation. The cost of a permit to repair a driveway shall be $25.00. All driveways shall have a bituminous concrete or equivalent apron installed. The apron shall be the full width of the driveway and shall extend at least 15 feet deep measured from the edge of the road. For new construction, no certificate of occupancy shall be issued until the driveway apron has been installed and approved by the public works department or a $1,000.00 cash bond per curb cut is deposited with the Town. Such bond will be forfeited if the apron(s) is not completed within six months of issuance of the certificate of occupancy. In the case of reconstruction or relocation if the apron or aprons are not installed within 45 days from the issuance of the permit the Town of Stafford shall have the right to install the said aprons within the right of way. The Town will use bituminous asphalt concrete and assess the property in the form of a lien of $1,000 per curb cut.

No obstructions, including but not limited to decorative shrubs, flowers, rocks, etc., will be permitted within 10 feet from the edge of the roadway which would obstruct the visibility of those using the driveway or those who would be passing by in either direction.
The maximum slope of the first 25 feet of the driveway measured from the edge of the roadway into the property shall not exceed 5%. Thereafter, the driveway slopes shall not exceed 14% unless waived by the Board of Selectmen. All driveways or portions of driveways, with slopes over 10% shall be paved with bituminous concrete or equivalent. For new construction, no certificate of occupancy shall be issued until all required slope paving is completed.

Recycled asphalt may only be used when mixed properly with an emulsion, rolled, broomed, and sealed; or as a base to be covered by a layer of hard surface bituminous concrete.

Driveways shall be designed and constructed so as to prevent surface runoff from the driveway and surrounding areas (roofs, gutters, lawn, etc.) from discharging to the travel portion of the roadway. The driveway design shall be reviewed by the Town Engineer. Runoff shall be controlled by grading or the use of some other type of appropriate drainage and or retention.

Driveways shall have clear sightlines of approximately 220 feet, in both directions, with the average speed limit of 30 miles per hour as stated in the Conn-Dot highway design manual, section 7-2.01, or as amended. In the case of new construction, no certificate of occupancy will be issued until all required sightline improvements are completed and all disturbed areas are stabilized and seeded.

In any case, where a driveway intersects a State Highway, a DOT encroachment permit is required. Proof of such permit shall accompany all applications for such permits.
 
Section 4: Municipal Improvements

In the event the Town of Stafford performs any construction or maintenance activity within the street right of way disturbing a driveway apron, the Town will only be responsible to repair or replace the disturbed apron with bituminous asphalt concrete.

In the event, the Town of Stafford performs any construction or maintenance activity within the street right of way the Town will not be responsible to replace any landscaping, including but not limited to decorative shrubs, flowers, rocks, etc.
 
Section 5: Survivability

Should any section of this ordinance be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of this ordinance as a whole, or any other part thereof.

Nothing contained in this ordinance shall constitute a waiver by the Town to exercise all its rights under Connecticut General Statute to exercise any portion of this ordinance; or other ordinances, regulations, or laws.

Effective 5-11-05
Amended: 2-1-07
Amended: 6-23-2011
Effective 7-15-2011
2-6 An Ordinance Prescribing Certain Land Use Fees

Section 3 - Elections / Elected Officials

3-1 Electors Right to Vote for Full Number of Assessors and the Board of Tax Review
3-1 Electors Right to Vote for Full Number of Assessors and the Board of Tax Review 

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The electors of the Town of Stafford may vote for the full number of Assessors and Board of Tax Review to be elected thereat in accordance with Section 9-199 of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Date Recorded: July 6, 1979
3-2 Salary in Lieu of Fees for the Town Clerk
3-2 Salary in Lieu of Fees for the Town Clerk

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Effective January 2, 1978, the Town Clerk shall receive a salary in Lieu of all fees and other compensation provided for in the General Statutes. The salary shall be fixed by the Town Meeting in the same manner that salaries of all other salaried elected Town Officials are fixed.

Effective Date: January 2, 1978
3-3 Election of School Board Members
3-3 Election of School Board Members
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Be it enacted by the Town of Stafford:


Section 1. It is established that the Town of Stafford hereby adopts the provisions of Public Act 83-401 in its entirety and each political party may nominate and the electorate shall be allowed to vote for candidates in accordance with the provisions of said Public Act.

Section 2. The effective date of this Ordinance shall be in accordance with the provisions of Connecticut General Statutes, Section 7-157.

Date Recorded: July 25, 1983

Section 4 - Taxes And Tax Exemption

4-1 Tax Exemption for Solar Installations

4-1 Tax Exemption for Solar Installations

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Pursuant to Section 12-81, Subsections 56 and 57 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Revision of 1958 as amended, the Town of Stafford hereby adopts the following ordinance to wit:

"Any building, the construction of which is commenced on or after October 1, 1976, and before October 1, 1991, which is equipped with a solar energy heating or cooling system, or any building to which a solar energy heating or cooling system is added on or after October 1, 1991, to the extent of the amount by which the assessed valuation of such real property equipped with such solar heating or cooling system exceeds the assessed valuation of such real property equipped with the conventional portion of the heating or cooling system, exclusive of any portion of such system related to solar energy, shall be exempt from taxation, provided this exemption shall only apply to the first fifteen assessment years following construction of such building or addition of any system to a building.

As used in this ordinance, "solar energy or cooling system" means equipment which provides for the collection, transfer, storage and use of incident solar energy for water heating, space heating or cooling which is absent such solar energy system would require a conventional energy resource, such as petroleum products, natural gas or electricity, and which meets standards established by regulation by the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management.

Any solar energy electricity generating system installed for the generation of electricity for private residential use is subject to authorization of the exemption, provided such installation occurs on or after October 1, 1977, and October 1, 1991. This exemption shall only be applicable in the first fifteen assessment years following the installation of such system.

As used in this ordinance, a "solar electricity generating system" means equipment, which is designed, operated and installed as a system at any private residential location, which utilizes solar energy to produce electricity for consumption at such location and which meets standards established by regulation by the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management.

Any person who desires to claim the exemption provided in this ordinance shall file with the Board of Assessors in the Town of Stafford, within thirty days following the annual assessment date, written application claiming such exemption on a form as prescribes by the Commissioner of Revenue Services. Failure to file such application in said manner and form within the time limit prescribed shall constitute a waiver of the right to such exemption for the assessment year.

Date Recorded: September 20, 1979

4-2 Amendment: Tax Exemption for Solar Installations
4-2 Amendment: Tax Exemption for Solar Installations

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Pursuant to Section 12-81, Subsection 56 and 57 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Revision of 1958 as amended, the Town of Stafford hereby adopts the following:

Any building, the construction of which commenced on or after October 1, 1976, and before October 1, 1991, which is equipped with a solar energy heating or cooling system, or any building to which solar heating or cooling system is added on or after October 1, 2006, to the extent of the amount by which the assessed valuation of such real property equipped with such solar heating or cooling system exceeds the assessed valuation of such real property equipped with the conventional portion of the heating or cooling system, exclusive of any portion of such system related to solar energy, shall be exempt from taxation, provided this exemption shall only apply to the first fifteen assessment years following the construction of such building or addition of any system to a building.

As used in this ordinance, "solar heating or cooling system" means equipment that provides for the collection, transfer, storage, and use of incident solar energy for water heating, space heating, or cooling which is absent such solar energy system would require a conventional energy resource, such as petroleum products, natural gas or electricity, and which meets the standards established by regulation by the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management.

Any solar energy electricity generating system installed for the generation of electricity for private residential use is subject to the authorization of the exemption, provided such installation occurs on or after October 1, 1977, and October 1, 1991. This exemption shall only be applicable in the first fifteen assessment years following the installation of such a system.

As used in this ordinance, a "solar electricity generating system" means equipment, which is designed, operated, and installed as a system at any private residential location, which utilizes solar energy to produce electricity for consumption at such location and which meets standards established by a regulation of the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management.

Any person who desires to claim the exemption provided in this ordinance shall file with the Board of Assessors in the Town of Stafford, within thirty days following the annual assessment date, written applications claiming such exemption on a form as prescribed by the Commissioner of Revenue Services. Failure to file such application in said manner and form within the time limit prescribed shall constitute a waiver of the right to such exemption for the assessment year.

Date Recorded: February 23, 1999
Adopted: July 16, 1999
4-3 Veterans Exemption
4-3 Veterans Exemption
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The amount of the additional exemption, currently at $4,000 at the time of this ordinance, shall be increased $1,000 per year over the next 6 years, starting with the 2007 Grand List, up to a maximum of $10,000 as allowed under Section 12-81f of the Connecticut General Statutes. The exemption shall be available to all veterans with qualifying incomes not exceeding the maximum amount allowed under Section 12-811 of the Connecticut General Statutes by more than twenty-five thousand dollars.

Date Published: July 6, 1984
Date Recorded: July 10, 1984
Amended March 20, 2007
4-4 Additional Exemptions for Surviving Spouse of Veterans

4-4 Additional Exemptions for Surviving Spouse of Veterans

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The amount of the additional exemption, currently at $4,000 at the time of this ordinance, shall be increased $1,000 per year over the next 6 years, starting with the 2007 Grand List, up to a maximum of $10,000 as allowed under Section 12-81f of the Connecticut General Statutes. The exemption shall be available to all surviving spouse's of a veteran with qualifying incomes not exceeding the maximum amount allowed under Section 12-811 of the Connecticut General Statutes by more than twenty-five thousand dollars.

Date Recorded: June 26, 1985
Amended March 20, 2007

4-5 Tax Exemption for Handicapped Equipped Vehicles
4-5 Tax Exemption for Handicapped Equipped Vehicles

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As provided by section 12-81c of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Town of Stafford exempts from personal property taxation: 1. any ambulance type motor vehicle, i.e., any van-type motor vehicle, that has been significantly modified, and which is used exclusively for the purpose of transporting any medically incapacitated individual, except any such vehicle used to transport any such individual for payment, and 2. any motor vehicle owned by a person with disabilities, or owned by a parent or guardian of such person, which is adapted to allow operation of the vehicle that otherwise the owner would not be physically capable of operating.  Application for such exemption must be made annually and such vehicle may be subject to physical inspection by the Assessor.

Date Published: September 14, 1985
Amended 1-13-05
4-6 Tax Exempt Ordinance
4-6 Tax Exempt Ordinance

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In accordance with the provisions of Section 12-81 Subsection 58 of the Connecticut general statutes, as amended, the Town of Stafford hereby exempts from taxation any real or personal property situated in the Town of Stafford leased to a charitable, religious or non-profit organization which is exempt from taxation for federal income tax purposes, provided such property is used exclusively for the purposes of such charitable, religious or non-profit organizations.
 
This ordinance shall be effective fifteen (15) days from publication.
Dated this 12th day of May, 1990.
4-7 Ordinance Providing Tax Abatement for Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Personnel

4-7 Ordinance Providing Tax Abatement for Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Personnel
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Section 1. 
 The property taxes of each volunteer firefighter or volunteer ambulance member of the Town of Stafford who has served as a volunteer for the Town of Stafford for not less than one (1) immediately preceding calendar year and who owes Town property taxes for real property and/or motor vehicles owned by such volunteer shall have any real and/or motor vehicle property taxes owed to the Town of Stafford by such volunteer abated up to the lesser of the amount shown in the following schedule or the total Town taxes due:

Abatement shall be on a sliding scale as follows:

In order to participate a member must attain a minimum of 75 points during the preceding calendar year.  75 points will give a $500.00 abatement, 80 points will give $600.00, 85 points $700.00, 90 points $800.00, 95 points $900.00, 100 points or more $1,000.00. 

Fire and ambulance department point system

  1. Regular or special meetings                5 points
  2. Toned calls (5 PM to 7 AM)             2 points
  3. (7 AM to 5 PM)                                 3 points
  4. Drills, Training                                   1 point
  5. Senior Member[1]                          75 points

Special Situation for the Stafford Springs Volunteer Fire Department
for the year January 2000 to December 2000:

From January 1, 2000 to June 15, 2000 the chief of the Stafford Springs Volunteer Fire Department (SSVFD) will certify calls, drills and meetings at the agreed upon point system. After July 1, 2000 and continuing until such time as litigation shall cease, no operational duties remain so all certifications shall be done by the president.  This section shall be revised subsequent to resolution of current litigation.  Until such time, points for SSVFD shall be earned as follows:

  1. Fire Department meetings                                             2 points
  2. Court Attendance                                                           2 points per hour
  3. Meetings with local officials                                           2 points per hour
  4. Meetings with officers of other departments                2 points per hour
  5. Senior Member                                                                 75 points

[1] For purposes of this Ordinance, "Senior Member" shall mean a member who has not less than twenty-five (25) years of active volunteer service to the Town of Stafford in any combination of fire departments and/or ambulance departments, except that simultaneous service shall not be counted as two separate years.

  1. The Chiefs of Stafford Fire Department # 1 and the West Stafford Fire Department, and the Presidents of SSVFD and the Ambulance Association will submit all names with the total number of points earned by each member in the preceding calendar year to the Town with supporting documentation by March 1stafter the close of the calendar year on December 31st.
  2. The Town will have the right to verify the names and points and to look at the organization' books to resolve any discrepancies or questions.
  3. No waivers or exceptions can be made to this abatement ordinance and this ordinance shall supercede all organizational bylaws, rules, and regulations, which shall be in conflict with this abatement ordinance.
  4. Anyone aggrieved by the amount of the abatement may appeal to the Board of Selectmen during the month of April. Failure to appeal by the end of April shall constitute a waiver of the appeal.
  5. The abatement shall be deducted from the Stafford TOWN taxes due and not from the Service District or the Sewer User fees.
  6. No stipend shall be given to a member who does not own property in Stafford and no inter local agreements will be entered into for non-residents.Members who qualify but are not current in their taxes shall have the abatement credited to the oldest tax liability outstanding. Property must be owned by the qualifying member and not by a corporation, LLC, partnership, or another family member.
  7. Each volunteer who qualifies shall receive the abatement up to the total Stafford town taxes owed, regardless of household maximum.
  8. If a member participates in two or more services only the highest point value will be counted for one service.
  9. Paid emergency service personnel are ineligible for the ambulance abatement program.
  10. By majority vote, the Board of Selectmen may make minor revisions to this ordinance without need for a Town Meeting.
  11. Any active volunteer firefighter or ambulance member who is receiving a tax abatement under the terms of this ordinance and who is called to active duty for the United States Military shall continue to receive the same tax abatement that they were receiving prior to being called to duty.

This ordinance shall take effect and shall be applicable to taxes owed beginning with taxes on the Grand List of October 1, 2000, Due and payable on July 1, 2001.

Adopted: 5-30-01
Published: 6-4-01
Revised: 7-11-02 (article 12 added as allowed by article 11).
Revised: 8-8-02

4-8 An Ordinance Providing a Property Tax Exemption for Certain Farm Buildings.
4-8 An Ordinance Providing a Property Tax Exemption for Certain Farm Buildings.
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To provide a property tax exemption pursuant to Public Act 03-234 to an amount not to exceed $50,000 of the assessed value for a farm building other than a residence. The building on which such exemption is applied must be used actually and exclusively for farming, as defined in section 1-1 of the Connecticut General Statutes,  and the applicant must also be eligible for the farm machinery exemption pursuant to subsection (a) of 12-91of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Adopted 5-4-04
Published 5-10-04
4-9 Tax Abatement for Canine Search & Rescue Volunteers
4-9 Tax Abatement for Canine Search & Rescue Volunteers
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The property taxes of each Canine Search & Rescue Volunteer living in the Town of Stafford who has served as a volunteer with a certified non-profit search & rescue organization for not less than one (1) immediately preceding calendar year shall be eligible to receive a tax abatement up to the total Stafford Town Taxes owed (not to exceed $1,000.00).

Eligibility: In order to receive an abatement from the Town of Stafford, such active, certified volunteer must annually attend a minimum of 60% of the events as required by the certifying organization. These events include, but are not limited to, the following: Training, drills, meetings, callouts and educational seminars. Such volunteer members must be strictly volunteer and may not be paid a salary to respond to calls or to attend required events.

Said volunteer must provide to the Town of Stafford a copy of their official membership identification proving they are indeed active, certified members of a Canine Search & Rescue organization. In addition, said volunteer must provide verification to the organization that they have met the requirements for certification. The organization must review the accuracy of this information and certify that said volunteer has met the requirements by providing a letter to the Stafford Town Tax Collector stating the volunteer is active, in good standing and has completed the requirements for such certification and is entitled to such abatement. 

No waivers or exceptions can be made to this abatement ordinance.

The abatement shall be deducted from the Town taxes due and not from the Service District or the Sewer User fees.

No stipend shall be given to a volunteer who does not own property in the Town of Stafford and no interlocal agreements will be entered into for non-residents. Volunteers who qualify but are not current in their taxes shall have the abatement credited to the oldest tax liability outstanding. Property must be owned by the eligible volunteer and not by a corporation, LLC, partnership or another family member.

By majority vote, the Board of Selectmen may make minor revisions to this ordinance without the need for a Town Meeting.

This ordinance shall take effect and shall be applicable to taxes owed beginning on the Grand List of October 1, 2005, due and payable July 1, 2006. 

Adopted at Town Meeting: November 3, 2005
Date Published: November 19, 2005
4-10 An Ordinance to Waive Interest on Property Tax Due for Any Stafford Real Property Owners Whose Spouse is on Active Duty in Iraq and Who Further, is Serving in the Middle East
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Pursuant to the provisions of Public Act 05-3 (section 9) of the June 2005 Special Session.

  1. Any person who is domiciled with and the spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States or of any state or of any reserve component thereof, who has been called to active service in the armed forces of the United States for a military operation that is authorized by the President of the United States that entail military action in Iraq and who is serving in the Middle East on the final day that payment of such property tax or installment or part thereof is due shall not be charged any interest for a period of one year on any property tax or installment or part thereof that is payable for real property assessed on the Stafford 2003 Grand List.
  2. The Stafford Tax Collector is authorized to require written proof of the above-described status in order to implement the above-described waiver of interest.
Approved at Town Meeting 12-20-05
Published 12-24-05
Effective January 10, 2006
4-11 Ordinance for Tax Exemptions for Certain Organizations
4-11 Ordinance for Tax Exemptions for Certain Organizations
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The Town of Stafford hereby adopts the provisions of section 12-81b of the Connecticut General Statutes relating to the effective date of tax exemptions for certain organizations. Accordingly, the property tax exemption authorized by subsections (7) to (16), inclusive, of section 12-81 of the Connecticut General Statutes shall be effective as of the date of acquisition of the property to which the exemption applies. The tax-exempt organization shall be reimbursed for any tax paid by it for a period subsequent to the date of such acquisition and shall also be reimbursed for any tax paid by the prior owner for a period subsequent to the date of such acquisition for which such tax-exempt organization reimbursed the prior owner upon the transfer of title to such property. This section shall be effective for all applicable transfers occurring on or after October 1, 2009.

Adopted 2-10-2011
Effective March 5, 2011

Section 5 - Roads / Highways

5-1 Water Discharge Upon Town Highway
5-1 Water Discharge Upon Town Highway

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Any person who discharges or causes to be discharged water upon a Town Highway shall be fined not more than $50.00.

Adopted Date: February 23, 1967
Amended: July 16, 1999
5-2 Surface Treatment of New Streets
5-2 Surface Treatment of New Streets
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No new street shall be accepted by the Town unless it has been surfaced with oil or asphalt in a manner equal or superior to State Town Aid Highway Department specifications for this type of Highway. State Town Highway Standards in effect on the date of Sub-Division approval shall apply to that sub-divided street or streets. This ordinance shall become effective upon adoption.

Adopted Date: March 31, 1970
5-3 Scenic Roads

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The legislative body of the Town of Stafford shall be empowered to designate existing highways or portions of highways as Scenic Roads. No road, which has been so designated, shall be altered, widened, paved, straightened, or have stonewalls or mature trees removed from the right of way.

No road may be designated a scenic road unless:

  1. The owners of the majority of the lots having frontage on the road agree to such designation.
  2. A petition with such owner's names is submitted to the Board of Selectmen or letters from the owners of a majority of the lots having frontage are received.
  3. The road to be designated is free from intensive commercial development and intensive vehicular traffic.
All roads so designated must be either:

  1. Unpaved.
  2. Bordered by mature trees or stonewalls.
  3. The traveled portion no more than 20 feet wide.
  4. Offering scenic views.
  5. Blend naturally into surrounding terrain.
  6. Parallel or cross over brooks, streams, lakes or ponds.
Adopted 1-26-84
Amended 5-6-03
Published 5-9-03

Section 6 - Parking

6-1 Parking Ordinance

6-1 Parking Ordinance 
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Section 1. Definitions

  1. Highway: Includes any public road or highway, street, avenue, alley, driveway, parkway, or any other place under the control of the Town of Stafford or the State of Connecticut, dedicated, appropriated or opened to public travel or other use.
  2.  Motor Vehicle: Any vehicle propelled or drawn by a non-muscular power, except aircraft, motor boats, road rollers, baggage trucks used about railroad stations or other mass transit facilities, electric battery-operated wheel chairs when operated by physically handicapped persons at speeds less than 15 MPH, golf carts operated on highways solely for the purpose of crossing from one part of the golf course to another, golf cart type vehicles operated on roads or highways on the grounds of State institutions by State employees, agricultural tractors, farm implements, such vehicles as run only on rails or tracks, self propelled snow plows, snow blowers and lawn mowers, when used for the purposes for which they were designed and operated at speeds not exceeding four miles per hour, whether or not the operator rides on or walks behind such equipment, or bicycles with helper motors as defined by Connecticut General Statute 14-286, special mobile equipment as defined in subsection (I) of section 14-165 and any other vehicle not suitable for operation on a highway.
  3.  Owner: Any person holding title to a motor vehicle, or having the legal right to register the same, including purchasers under conditional bills of sale.
  4. Parked Vehicle: A motor vehicle in a stationary position within the limits of a public highway.
  5. Road: See Highway.
  6. Shoulder: That portion of a highway immediately adjacent and contiguous to the travel lanes or main traveled portion of the roadway.
  7. Traffic Authority: The Board of Selectmen.
  8. Vehicle: Includes any device suitable for conveyance, drawing or other transportation of persons or property, whether operated on wheels, runners, a cushion of air or by any other means. The term does not include devices propelled or drawn by human power or devices used exclusively on tracks.

Section 2. Parking Time Limits

2.1  East Main Street Parking (North Side): Parking on the north side of East Main Street from its junction with Furnace Avenue on the west to its junction with Willington Avenue on the east will be for a period of no more than two hours.

2.2  East Main Street Parking (South Side): Parking on the south side of East Main Street from Haymarket Square on the west to its junction with Willington Avenue on the East will be for a period of no more than two hours.

2.3  Main Street Parking (North Side): Parking on the north side of Main Street from the intersection of East Main Street on the east to its intersection with Church Street on the west will be for a period of no more than two hours. Parking may be for a lesser period at the discretion of the Board of Selectmen.

2.4 Main Street Parking (South Side): Parking on the south side of Main Street from the intersection of East Main Street on the east to the intersection of Spring Street on the West will be for a period no longer than two hours and parking on the south side of Main Street from the intersection of Spring Street on the east to West Main Street on the West will be for a period no longer than two hours. Parking may be for a lesser period at the discretion of the Board of Selectmen. 

2.5   Parking Hours: The limited two-hour parking specified in Sections 2.1 through 2.4, shall be in effect Monday through Friday from 4:30 A.M. through 6:00 P.M. Unlimited parking will be in effect from 6:00 P.M. through 4:30 A.M. each Monday through Friday, and also from 9:00 P.M. on Friday through 4:30 A.M. on Monday.

2.6 Parking Bans: Parking bans may be instituted as deemed necessary by the Board of Selectmen.

Section 3. Warren Memorial Town Hall Parking

No person shall park a motor vehicle in the parking lot adjacent to the Warren Memorial Town Hall, from Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., except for the purposes of employment in the Warren Memorial Town Hall or conducting business in the Warren Memorial Town Hall.

Section 4. Parking During Periods of Snow Removal

Parking on any highway within the boundaries of the Town of Stafford during any period when it is snowing or freezing rain, or so as to interfere with or hamper the removal of snow or ice, shall be prohibited.

Section 5. Violations

5.1 Category 1 Violations.

  1. Parking on Sidewalk: No vehicle shall be parked with any wheels or portion thereof on any sidewalk.
  2. Wrong Side of Street: No vehicle shall be parked facing in an opposite direction to the flow of traffic. Vehicles shall be parked to the far right of the travel portion of the highway, facing the same direction as the flow of traffic.
  3. Parking on Crosswalk: No vehicle shall be parked on or within 5' of any marked crosswalk.
  4. Curbside Parking: Any vehicle parked adjacent to any section of curbed highway, shall be parked so that it's right side tires are within 12" of the curb.
  5. Blocking Driveway: No vehicle shall be parked so as to block or partially block any public, residential, or commercial or business driveway.
  6. Double Parking: No vehicle shall be double parked or parked in such a manner as to impede the flow of traffic.
  7. Yellow Curb: No vehicle shall park adjacent to a yellow painted curb as marked by the order of the Board of Selectmen.
  8. Posted Signs: No vehicle shall be parked in violation of any traffic control sign or no parking sign erected by the State Traffic Commission or the Board of Selectmen.
  9. Warren Memorial Town Hall Parking: In violation of Section 3 above.
  10. Parking During Periods of Snow Removal: In violation of Section 4 above.

5.2  Category 2 Violations

  1. Fire Lanes: No vehicle shall be parked in a fire lane as designated and marked by the Board of Selectmen or the State Traffic Commission. Such designation shall be by posted sign and/or markings on the curb or pavement.
  2. Fire Hydrant: No vehicle shall be parked within 10' of any fire hydrant.
  3. Stop Sign or Intersection: No vehicle shall be parked within 25' of a stop sign erected either by the State Traffic Commission or the Board of Selectmen or within 25' of any intersection.
  4.  Parking on Hill or Curve: No vehicle shall be parked at any curve or where a clear view of such vehicle is not possible at a distance of 150', or otherwise parked so as to be a hazard.

5.3 Category 3 Violations

  1. Handicapped Zone: No vehicle shall be parked in any area designated as area restricted to handicapped, blind, or otherwise disabled persons (including "disabled veterans") unless such vehicle displays a valid placard, hang tag, or marker plate issued pursuant to Connecticut General Statute 14-253a. Such restricted zones shall be identified through signs, markings on the pavement or curb, or both.

Section 6. Fines

6.1 Category 1 Violations: $25.00.
6.2 Category 2 Violations: $35.00.
6.3 Category 3 Violations: $50.00.

6.4 Multiple Violations: In the event of multiple violations, the illegally parked vehicle may be cited for all violations resulting in an aggregate fine greater than for any single violation or category.

Section 7. Vehicle Towing

The First Selectman reserves the right to tow any vehicle, at the owner's expense, which is parked in violation of any provision of this ordinance, in addition to any fines imposed.

Section 8. Owner Responsible for Illegally Parked Vehicle

The owner of any vehicle parked in violation of any section of this ordinance shall be responsible for any fines imposed.

Section 9. Validity

Should any section of this ordinance be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of this ordinance as a whole, or any other part thereof.

Section 10. Supercedence

This ordinance shall supercede all preexisting ordinances pertaining to parking.

ADOPTED: July 16, 1999

6-2 Hearing Procedure for Parking Violations
6-2 Hearing Procedure for Parking Violations
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  1. The Town of Stafford hereby establishes by ordinance a parking violation hearing procedure in accordance with Section 7-152 of the CGS. The superior court shall be authorized to enforce the assignments and judgments provided for under this section. 
  2. The First Selectman of the Town of Stafford shall appoint one or more parking violation hearing officers, other than policemen or persons who issue parking tickets or work in the police department, to conduct the hearings authorized by this ordinance.
  3. The Town of Stafford, at any time within two years from the expiration of the final period for the uncontested payment of fines, penalties, costs or fees for any alleged violation under this ordinance adopted pursuant to section 7-148 or sections 14-305 to 14-308, inclusive, send notice to the motor vehicle operator, if known, or the registered owner of the motor vehicle by first class mail at his address according to the registration records of the Department of Motor Vehicles. Such notice shall inform the operator or owner: (1) Of the allegations against him and the amount of the fines, penalties, costs or fees due; (2) that he may contest his liability before a parking violations hearing officer by delivering in person or by mail written notice within ten days of the date thereof; (3) that if he does not demand such a hearing, an assessment and judgment shall be entered against him; and (4) that such judgment may issue without further notice. Whenever a violation of such an ordinance occurs, proof of registration number of the motor vehicle involved shall be prima facie evidence in all proceedings provided for in this section that the owner of such vehicle was the operator thereof; provided, the liability of a lessee under section 14-107 shall apply. 
  4. If the person who is sent notice pursuant to subsection (c) of this ordinance wishes to admit liability for any alleged violation, he may, without requesting a hearing, pay the full amount of the fines, penalties, costs or fees admitted to in person or by mail to an official designated the Town. Such payment shall be inadmissible in any proceeding, civil or criminal, to establish the conduct of such person or other person making the payment. Any person who does not deliver or mail written demand for a hearing within ten days of the date of the first notice provided for in subsection (c) of this section shall be deemed to have admitted liability, and the designated municipal official shall certify such person's failure to respond to the hearing officer. The hearing officer shall thereupon enter and assess the fines; penalties, costs and fees provided for by the ordinance and shall follow the procedures set forth in subsection (f) of this section.
  5. Any person who requests a hearing shall be given a written notice of the date, time and place for the hearing. Such hearing shall be held not less than fifteen days nor more than thirty days from the date of the mailing notice, provided the hearing officer shall grant upon good cause shown any reasonable request by any interested party for postponement or continuance. An original or certified copy of the initial notice of violation issued by a policeman or other issuing officer shall filed and retained by the Town, and shall be deemed to be a business record within the scope of section 52-180, and be evidence of the facts contained therein. The presence of the issuing policeman or issuing officer shall be required at the hearing if such person so requests. A person wishing to contest his liability shall appear at the hearing and may present evidence in his behalf. A designated municipal official, other than the hearing officer, may present evidence on behalf of the municipality. If such person fails to appear, the hearing officer may enter an assessment by default against him upon a finding of proper notice and liability under the applicable statutes or ordinances. The hearing officer may accept from such person copies of police reports, investigatory and citation reports, and other official documents by mail and may determine thereby that the appearance of such person is unnecessary. The hearing officer shall conduct the hearing in the order and form and with such methods of proof, as he deems fair and appropriate. The rules regarding the admissibility of evidence shall not be strictly applied, but all testimony shall be given under oath or affirmation. The hearing officer shall announce his decision at the end of the hearing. If he determines that the person is not liable, he shall dismiss the matter and enter his determination in writing accordingly. If he determines the person is liable for the violation, he shall forthwith enter and assess the fines, penalties, costs or fees against such person as
    provided by this ordinance.
  6. If such assessment is not paid on the date of its entry, the hearing officer shall send by first class mail a notice of the assessment to the person found liable and shall file, not less than thirty days nor more than twelve months after such mailing, a certified copy of the notice of assessment with the clerk of the superior court, together with an entry fee of eight dollars. The certified copy of the notice of assessment shall constitute a record of assessment. Within such twelve-month period, assessments against the same person may be accrued and filed as one record of assessment. The clerk shall enter judgment, in the amount of such record of assessment and court costs of eight dollars, against such person in favor of the municipality. Notwithstanding any other provision of the general statutes, the hearing officer's assessment, when so entered as judgment, shall have the effect of a civil money judgment and a levy of execution on such judgment may issue without further notice to such person.
  7. A person against whom an assessment has been entered pursuant to this ordinance is entitled to judicial review by way of appeal. An appeal shall be instituted within thirty days of the mailing of the notice of such assessment by filing a petition to reopen assessment, together with an entry fee in an amount equal to the entry fee for a small claims case pursuant to section 52-259, in the superior court, which shall entitle such person to a hearing in accordance with the rules of the judges of the superior court.

Adopted: July 16, 1999
Amended: July 16, 1999

Section 7 - Public Safety / Health

7-1 Loitering
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7-1 Loitering
Purpose:


Whereas, the residents of the Town of Stafford, having deliberated the need for an ordinance that prohibits certain types of loitering, having considered and adhered to the guidelines established by the American Law Institute in its Model Penal Code, Proposed Official Draft on Loitering in formulating an ordinance which would not arbitrarily interfere with the constitutional freedom of any person, yet would regulate certain types of loitering and in furtherance of the public safety and welfare,

Now, therefore, be it Enacted:

Section 1.Definitions

The word "loiter" as used in this Ordinance shall mean remaining idle in essentially one location and shall include the concepts of spending time idly, loafing or walking about aimlessly, and shall also include the colloquial expression "hanging around".

Section 2. Certain Types of Loitering Prohibited

No person or persons shall loiter in or about a public place, or upon private property upon complaint of the owner of said property, in such a manner as to: (a) create or cause to be created a danger of breach of peace; (b) create or cause to be created any disturbance or annoyance to the comfort and repose of any person; (c) obstruct the free passage of pedestrians or vehicles.

Section 3. Discretion of Police Officer

Whenever any police officer, in the exercise of reasonable judgment, shall decide that the presence of any person in any public place, or on private property upon complaint of the owner thereof, is causing or likely to cause any of the conditions enumerated in Section 2 herein, he may, if he deems it necessary, for the preservation of the public peace and safety, order that person to leave that place. Any person who shall refuse to leave after being ordered to do so by a police officer shall be guilty of a violation of this Section.

Section 4. Penalty

Any person who violates the provisions of this ordinance shall be fined not more than $90.00 for each offense. Each and every violation of this Ordinance shall constitute a separate offense.

Date Recorded: June 3, 1981
Date Published: June 4, 1981
7-2 Public Drinking
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7-2 Public Drinking

No person shall consume or possess with the intent of consuming, or have in his possession a partially consumed container of an alcoholic beverage in any outside public place in the Town of Stafford.

Outside public places shall include, but not be limited to: Hyde Park, Kealy Field, Olympic Field, High School track, the Green in Hydeville, Staffordville beach, Dennis Pond, all school grounds, all roads and highways, and all other areas open to public use.

The Board of Selectmen may waive any and all of the above regulations upon application of any person or organization of the Town of Stafford.

Any person who violates any provision of this ordinance shall be fined $90.00.

Date Recorded: June 3, 1981
Date Published: June 4, 1981
Amended: July 16, 1999
7-3 Blight Ordinance
7-4 Regulating Snow/Ice Removal from Sidewalks and Fire Hydrants
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7-4 Regulating Snow/Ice Removal from Sidewalks and Fire Hydrants

The owner, or the court appointed conservator or trustee, of any property within the Town of Stafford, shall be responsible for the snow removal on abutting sidewalk(s) and around abutting fire hydrant(s). Said snow/ice removal shall be accomplished within twenty-four (24) hours of the cessation of snowfall.

Anyone who violates the above ordinance shall be subject to a $50.00 fine payable to the Town of Stafford for each 24-hour period that the sidewalk or fire hydrant is not cleared. Any Town of Stafford enforcement officer may impose said fine. Town of Stafford enforcement officers are any member of the Board of selectmen, and Connecticut State Police, any constable, certified or not certified, or the superintendent of highways, or any foreman of the Stafford Public Works Department.

In addition to the aforementioned fine, the First Selectman may have the sidewalk or fire hydrant cleared of snow and ice at the property owner's expense. If the property owner does not reimburse the town for the cost of the snow/ice removal, the town may place a lien on the subject property for the amount of the clean-up and administrative costs in the same manner as the filing of property tax liens.

An owner of the property may appeal the order or the fine to clear snow/ice from the sidewalk/ fire hydrant by contacting the Selectmen's Office and asking for a hearing on a forum provided for that purpose. The town-hearing officer shall hold a hearing as soon as possible at a time convenient for the property owner.

Adopted at Town Meeting: February 6, 2001
Date Published: February 12, 2001
7-5 Public Nudity
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7-5 Public Nudity
No Person shall be in a public place within the Town of Stafford in a full or partial state of undress and no person shall permit another person to be in a full or partial state of undress as defined by the State of Connecticut Liquor Control Commission in Sec. 30-6-A24 (d), unless the public place is located more than 2,000 feet from a community recreation building, a playground, a sports field, a park, a school, a place of worship, a day care center or a campground.

Advertisements, displays, or other promotional materials shall not be shown or exhibited so as to be visible to the public from sidewalks, walkways, or from any public or semi-public areas or from public or private streets or roads.

All establishments conforming to this ordinance shall be located, covered or screened in such a manner as to prevent viewing into the interior from any public or semi-public area.

All Federal, State or Local laws, rules, or regulations to the contrary, notwithstanding.

Any person who violates any section of this ordinance shall be fined not more than $500.00.

Adopted: February 11, 1998
7-6 An Ordinance Establishing a Curfew

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7-6 An Ordinance Establishing a Curfew

Be it ordained by the Town of Stafford as follows:

(A) Purpose

The Town of Stafford has found that the incidence of crimes committed by and against minors is increasing and has determined that a curfew ordinance is necessary and desirable.

The Town of Stafford has also determined that persons under the age of eighteen (18) are particularly susceptible by their lack of maturity and experience to participate in lawful activities and to be victims of older perpetrators of crime.

The Town of Stafford recognizes that it has a moral and legal obligation to:

  1. protect minors from each other and from other persons on the streets during nocturnal hours.
  2. promote parental responsibility for and supervision of minors; and,
  3. protect the general public from nocturnal mischief and crime committed by minors.

Wherefore, a curfew for those under the age of eighteen (1) will be in the interest of the public health, safety, and general welfare and will help to attain the foregoing objectives and to diminish the undesirable impact of such conduct on the citizens of the Town of Stafford.

(B) Definitions

For the purposes of this ordinance the following terms, phrases, words and their derivations shall have the meaning given herein. When not inconsistent with the context, words used in the present tense include the future, words in the plural number include the singular number, and words in the singular number the plural number. The word "shall" is always mandatory and not merely directory.

  1. Curfew Hours: For minors under the age of sixteen (16) years: shall be between 10:00 p.m. on any Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday until 5:00 a.m. of the following day; and 11;00 p.m. on any Friday or Saturday until 5:00 a.m. of the following day.

For minors between the ages of sixteen (16) and eighteen (18) years: shall be between 11:00 p.m. on any Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday until 5:00 a.m. of the following day; and 12:01 a.m. until 5:00 a.m. on any Saturday or Sunday.

  1. Emergency:    shall mean an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action. The term includes, but is not limited to, a fire, a natural disaster, or automobile accident, or any situation requiring immediate action to prevent serious bodily injury or loss of life.
  2. Establishment:    shall mean any privately-owned place of business operating for a profit to which the public is invited, including but not limited to any place of amusement or entertainment.
  3. Guardian:     shall mean a person who, under court order, is the guardian of the person of a minor; or a public or private agency with whom the minor has been placed.
  4. 5.Minor:    shall mean any person under eighteen (18) years of age.
  5. 6.Parent:    shall mean any person who is a natural parent, adoptive parent, or step-parent of another person; of at least eighteen (18) years of age and legally authorized by a parent or guardian to have the care and custody of a minor.
  6. Public Place: shall mean any street, alley, highway, sidewalk, park, playground or place to which the general public has access and a right to resort for business, entertainment, or other lawful purpose. A public place shall include but not be limited to any store, shop, restaurant, tavern, bowling alley, caf, theater, drug store, pool room, shopping center and any other place devoted to amusement or entertainment of the general public. It shall also include the front or immediate area of the above.
  7. Remain:     shall mean to linger or stay, or fail to leave the premises when requested to do so by a police officer or the owner, operator, or the person in control of the premises.

(C) Offenses

  1. Curfew for Minors:    It shall be unlawful for any minor to remain idle, wander, stroll or play in any public place or establishment in the Town of Stafford during curfew hours unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, custodian or other adult person having custody or control of such minor or unless the minor is on an emergency errand or specific business or activity directed or permitted by his/her parent, guardian, or other adult person having the care and custody of the minor or where the presence of such minor is connected with or required by some legitimate employment, trade, profession or occupation.
  2. Parents Responsibility:    It shall be unlawful for the parent, guardian or other

adult having custody and control of any minor under the age of sixteen (16) to suffer or permit or by inefficient control to allow such person to be on the streets or sidewalks or in any public property or public place or establishment within the Town of Stafford during curfew hours. However, the provisions of this section do not apply to a minor accompanied by his or her parent, guardian, custodian or other adult person having the care, custody or control over the minor, or if the parent, guardian or other adult having care and custody of the minor it the parent guardian or other adult person herein has made a missing person notification to the appropriate police authority.

(D)  Special Functions

Any minor attending a special function or event sponsored by any religious, school, club, or other organization that requires such minor to be out at a later hour than that in this section shall be exempt from the provisions of this ordinance provided such minor has the approval of his or her parent or guardian to attend said function or event. Such minors who attend said function or event shall be required to be in their homes or a usual place of abode within one half hour after said function or event has ended.

(E) Procedures

For Minors Sixteen (16) Years and Older:

  • Any police officer upon finding a minor sixteen (16) years and older in violation of this ordinance may issue the minor an infraction citation for the violation and subject to the fines as set fourth in Section (F). The police officer shall report such action to the resident trooper or his or her designate who in turn shall notify the parents, guardian, or person having custody of such minor.
For Minors Under the Age of Sixteen (16) Years:
  • Any police officer upon finding a minor under the age of sixteen (16) years in violation of this ordinance shall ascertain the name and address of such minor and that he or she is in violation of the curfew and shall direct such minor to proceed at once to his or her home or usual place of abode. The police officer shall report such action to the resident trooper or his or her designate who in turn shall notify the parents, guardian, or person having custody or control of such minor.
  • If such minor refuses to heed such warning or direction by any police officer or refuses to give such police officer his correct name and address, or if such minor has been warned on a previous occasion that he or she is in violation of
  • curfew, he or she may be taken to the resident trooper's office or troop "c" headquarters in Tolland and the parent, guardian, or other adult person having the care and custody of such minor shall be notified to come and take charge of the minor.

(F) Penalties

  1. Any person violating a provision of this ordinance is guilty of a separate offense for each day or part of a day during which a violation is committed, continues or permitted.
  2. For Minors Sixteen (16) Years of Age or Older:    Violation of any provision of this ordinance shall be deemed an infraction with a fine of not more than $50.00 dollars for the first offense, $75.00 for the second offense and $90.00 for all subsequent offenses.
  3. For Minors Under the Age of Sixteen (16):    Violation of Section (E) by any parent, guardian or other adult person having the care and custody of a minor after having been previously notified under Section (E) shall be deemed an infraction.
  4. Said parent, guardian or other adult person shall be fined not more than $50.00 dollars for the first offense, $75.00 dollars for the second offense and $90.00 dollars for all subsequent offenses.
  5.  It shall not constitute a defense that such parent, guardian, or other adult person did not have knowledge of the presence of the minor upon any establishments or public places.
  6. Notwithstanding any provision of this ordinance, any minor under the age of sixteen (16) violating the provisions of this ordinance may be referred to juvenile authorities and dealt with in accordance with the Juvenile Court law and procedure.

(G) Severability

Severability is intended throughout and within the provisions of this part ordinance. If any provision, any exception, part, phrase or term or the application to any person or circumstances is held to be invalid, other provisions or other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

(H) Duration

  1. This ordinance shall be reviewed by the Town of Stafford annually and at such time the town may proceed to amend or repeal said ordinance if it chooses.
  2. This ordinance shall be effective for not more than (5) five years from the date of adoption at which time, if the Town of Stafford does not or has not acted to renew the ordinance shall be deemed repealed.   

Approved: July 29, 1998

7-7 An Ordinance for the Protection of Property from Fire
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7-7 An Ordinance for the Protection of Property from Fire

Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes, Section 7-301, The Town of Stafford hereby authorizes the Stafford Board of Selectmen to enter into a written agreement with the Stafford Fire Department #1, Inc. and the West Stafford Fire Department, Inc. for the protection of life and property within the Town of Stafford.

Said agreement shall be continuous unless either party notifies the other in writing that the party no longer wishes to participate in this agreement.  If a party does notify the other, this agreement shall become null and void 90 days after such notification.  If said agreement is terminated, all of the Town of Stafford's equipment in the possession of the fire department shall be returned to the Town within a reasonable time.

An agreement between the Board of Selectmen, acting for the Town, and the volunteer fire department shall provide for an annual appropriation from the Town of Stafford, the amount of which shall be determined under the provisions of the Connecticut General Statutes governing appropriations for non-chartered municipalities operating with a Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance and a Town Meeting, and shall require that the fire department provide financial documentation as determined by the Board of Selectmen.  The fire department shall be required to provide proof of insurance for all property, real or personal, owned by the Town of Stafford, in its possession.  In addition, the fire department shall be required to provide an inventory of Town of Stafford equipment on an annual basis.

The fire departments shall determine their own internal policies and methods of operation and the Board of Selectmen, except for financial accounting purposes and items specifically listed in this ordinance, is not authorized to make any agreements to the contrary.

The Board of Selectmen is also authorized to include in said agreement a provision in the event of termination, bankruptcy or insolvency of a fire department.

The area of geographic responsibility for Stafford Fire Department # 1, Inc. shall be as follows:  That section of the Town of Stafford east of Connecticut State Highway Rt. 32 from the Massachusetts State Line to the former Borough of Stafford Springs boundary line and the following streets within the former Borough of Stafford Springs:

Balsam Circle, Bayberry Lane, Bellrose, Benton, Brendan, Brown, Brown Avenue Ext. Church, Clinton, Clover Crossing, Cross, Crown, DaDalt, Dennis Lane, East Street, East Main Street, Edgewood, Evergreen Heights, Fisk, Furnace, Galotto, George, Gold, Grant Avenue, Grant Avenue Ext. Grove, Hicks, High, Highland Terrace, Horrigan Lane, Ice House Road, Howland Avenue, Hyde Park Road, Laurel, Maple, Mattesen, Morton, Mountain Road, Orchard, Parkess, Penny Lane, Prospect, Quinn, River Road, School, Silver, Westford Avenue, Willington Avenue, Arnold Lane, Meadow Lane, Meadow Brook Drive, Tammy Lane, Main Street, John Street, and  Spring

The area of geographic responsibility for the West Stafford Fire Department, Inc. shall be as follows: That section of the Town of Stafford west of Connecticut State Highway Rt. 32 from the Massachusetts State Line to the former Borough of Stafford Springs boundary line and the following streets in the former Borough of Stafford Springs:

Avery Park Road, Center, Converse, Corcoran Avenue, Curtis, Forest Edge Condominium, Green, Jennifer Lane, Monson Road, Oak, Olympic Annex, Olympic Avenue, Olympic Circle, Park, Pleasant, Prospect Heights, Prospect St, Sellers Lane, Stafford Heights, Summer, Tolland Avenue, Topsy Drive, West, West End, West Main, White Oak, Italian Club Road.

This ordinance shall become effective on July 1, 2000 and shall repeal, replace and supersede any and all fire protection ordinances enacted by either the Town of Stafford or the Borough of Stafford Springs.
7-8 Regulating Use of Town Property
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7-8 Regulating Use of Town Property

No person shall display any item for sale of any kind, or place any obstruction on any public sidewalk, public highway or public right of way, without first obtaining a permit for said display from the Stafford Board of Selectmen.

Permit may be issued by the Board of Selectmen for events sponsored by either a municipal agency, a nonprofit community organization, or a business association, or for promotional sales, provided that no one business shall be entitled to obtain such a permit for more than six (6) days during any calendar year. If said permit is granted, proof of liability insurance holding the Town of Stafford harmless will be required.

Any person found violating this ordinance shall be subject to a fine of fifty dollars ($50.00) per day.

Approved 11-09-04
Published 11-13-04
Effective  11-28-04
7-9 An Ordinance Concerning Municipal Liability for Ice and Snow on Public Sidewalks.
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7-9 An Ordinance Concerning Municipal Liability for Ice and Snow on Public Sidewalks

Pursuant to the Connecticut General Statutes Section 7-163a, notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13a-149 or any other general statute or special act, the Town of Stafford should not be liable to any person injured in person or property caused by the presence of ice or snow on a public sidewalk unless the Town of Stafford is the owner or person in possession and control of land abutting such sidewalk, other than land used as a highway or street, provided the town shall be liable for its affirmative acts with respect to such sidewalk.

Approved 1-26-06
Published 2-1-06
Effective 2-10-06
7-10 Fire Prevention and Protection Fee Ordinance

Section 8 - Boating / Beach Use

8-1 Regulations for Staffordville Lake
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8-1 Regulations for Staffordville Lake
General Rules:


  1. Remember, you are legally bound to know and observe the State and nautical "rules of the road".
  2. Sailboats, canoes and rowboats have the right of way.
  3. When approaching another boat, keep to the right.
  4. All boats, except sailboats, must operate in a counter-clockwise direction on the lake, especially when towing a water skier.
  5. Boats on the lake shall be restricted to residents or property owners of the Town of Stafford, or their guests. For purposes of these regulations, tenants (renters) shall be considered residents of the Town of Stafford.
  6. Motorboats being used for water skiing shall not be operated closer than 100 feet from the high water mark and 300 feet from the public beach unless docking or dropping off a skier.
  7. All motorboats must be conscious of their wake while passing canoes, rowboats, or sailboats.
  8. No boat shall be operated without a proper muffler.
  9. Canoes and rowboats are required to stay within 100 feet of shore when water skiing is permitted, except when crossing the lake. This requirement only applies Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
Hours and Speeds:

  1. After 7:30 P.M., except during July and August when it shall be 8:00 P.M., boating speeds will be maintained at the speed recognized as "trolling speed" (three to five miles per hour).
  2. No skiing or motor boating faster than the above (a) before 10 A.M. on Saturdays and holidays and before noon on Sundays.
  3. No boats shall be driven faster than 40 miles per hour.
  4. There shall be no racing between two or more boats.

Winter Hours:

During the winter period there shall be no use of the surface of the lake for any purpose from one half hour after sunset until one half hour before sunrise. Anyone who uses the lake during the prohibited times shall be doing so at their own risk.

Swimmers:

a) All swimmers must stay within 50 feet of the waterline unless you are accompanied by a boat.

Other Regulations:

  1. No rafts or docks shall be installed or be extended more than 25 feet into the lake, measured from the water's edge.
  2. No buoys or ropes are permitted to be installed in Staffordville Lake except at the Town of Stafford public beach.
  3. No boats shall be moored in Staffordville Lake unless attached to the owners or tenants properties.

Aerators:

In the event that any property owner who owns property which abuts the shore of the lake installs an aerator to protect their dock, they must adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. They must post a sign in front of their property indicating that there may be "Thin Ice or Open Water."
  2. They must send written notice to abutting property owners of their intention to install and of the fact that they have installed an aerator.
  3. Any aerator must be installed in such a way and used in such a way so that it has no impact on any part of the lake or ice that does not abut the property of the property owner who has installed the aerator.  
Any person who violates any provision of this ordinance shall be fined $100.00 per day.

Date Recorded: February 24, 1982
Amended: July 16, 1999
Amended at Town Meeting May 13, 2010
Effective June 3, 2010
8-2 Staffordville Beach
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8-2 Staffordville Beach
Section A.No person shall kindle an open fire on the beach or on any adjacent land. There shall be no fires of any kind on the ice.

Section B.No person shall possess a glass container on the beach.
Section C.No alcoholic beverages on Town property.
Section D.No person shall cause excessive noise at the beach.
Section E. No person shall allow animals on the beach or in the water at any time.
Section F. The beach and adjacent areas will only be open to the following people:

  1. Stafford residents and guests
  2. Temporary renters or tenants of Stafford properties and their guests.
Section G. No person shall be allowed on Staffordville School grounds, parking lot, ball field, or beach after 9:00 P.M. except for the purpose of fishing.

Any person found violating any provisions of this ordinance shall be fined $90.00.

Date Recorded: June 4, 1982
Amended: July 16, 1999
BEACH IS CLOSED DURING SCHOOL HOURS
8-3 Amendment to Ordinance for Staffordville Beach
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8-3 Amendment to Ordinance for Staffordville Beach

Said Ordinance for Staffordville Beach, dated June 4, 1984 is hereby amended to require a Facilities Use Permit, issued by the Town, for motor vehicles seeking to access Staffordville Beach. The Ordinance for Staffordville Beach, dated June 4, 1982 remains in full force and effect, subject to said aforementioned amendment.

Date Approved: October 3, 1988
8-4 Regulating Boating on Crystal Lake
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8-4 Regulating Boating on Crystal Lake
Section 1.
Speed limit on Crystal Lake. No person shall operate a motor boat at a rate of speed greater than is reasonable having regard to conditions and circumstances such as the closeness of shore and shore installations, anchored or moored vessels in the vicinity, vessel traffic and water use.

From sunset to sunrise no motor boat shall be driven more than six (6) miles per hour, and further provided that no motor boat shall be driven more than six (6) miles per hour before the hour of 9:00 A.M. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Section 2. Prohibitions. Jet-ski type boats shall be prohibited on Crystal lake.

Section 3. Boat Travel. All vessels towing a water skier on Crystal Lake are to proceed and operate in a counter-clockwise direction.

Section 4. Water Skiers. The maximum number of water skiers to be towed by a motor boat is two (2) at any one time. Towing more than Two (2) skiers shall be regarded as a special event requiring a chase boat and notification of the Constable on duty that the special event is going to take place.

Section 5. Kite Skiing. Kite skiing shall be regarded as a special event requiring a chase boat and notification of the Constable that the special event is going to take place.

Section 6. Penalties. Any person who violates any provisions of this ordinance shall be fined not less than $50.00 nor more than $90.00.

Section 7. Effective date. This ordinance shall become effective fifteen (15) days following publication, in accordance with Section 7-159 of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Section 8. Notification. This ordinance is to be posted at the launching area at Crystal Lake for all to heed as it will be enforced.

Date Recorded: March 22, 1984
8-5 Regulating Boating on New City Pond
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8-5 Regulating Boating on New City Pond


Section 1. Restrictions: Boating restricted to rowboats, canoes, kayaks, sailboats and other watercraft not powered by combustion engines, small electric motors shall be allowed.

Section 2. Penalties: Any person who violates the provision of this ordinance shall be fined not less than $50.00 nor more than $90.00.

Section 3. Effective Date: This ordinance shall become effective sixty (60) days following adoption at Town Meeting, in accordance with section 15-136 of the Connecticut General Statutes.

Section 4. Notification: This ordinance shall be posted at New City Pond for all to heed, as it will be enforced.

Section 5. The Town agrees to maintain the present level of the pond except for temporarily lowering it for repairs and all abutting landowners agree to maintain the current landscaping.

Section 6. The town agrees to post a map of all abutting property lines for New City Pond on site.

Adopted: August 22, 2002
Amended: February 1, 2007

Section 9 - Water Pollution Control / Sanitary Landfill

9-1 Create A Water Pollution Control Authority
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9-1 entitled:
Create a Water Pollution Control Authority

ORDINANCE RELATING TO SEWERS

SECTION 1- PURPOSE

The purpose of this ordinance is to provide for the maximum possible beneficial public use of the Town of Stafford's wastewater facilities through regulation of sewer construction, sewer use, wastewater discharges, penalties and other procedures in cases of violations of this ordinance.

This ordinance shall apply to the Town of Stafford and to persons outside the town who are users of the public sewer system.  Except as otherwise provided herein, the Water Pollution Control Authority for the Town of Stafford shall administer, implement, and enforce the provisions of this ordinance.

SECTION 2- WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY

The Town of Stafford hereby creates a Water Pollution Control Authority and designates said Authority as the Water Pollution Control Authority of the Town of Stafford in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes Sec. 7-246, as amended.

SECTION 3- MEMBERS, MANNER OF APPOINTMENT

Said Authority shall consist of seven electors of the Town of Stafford who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve without compensation.  Members of the Authority shall be appointed for terms of three (3) years, and terms shall expire on October 15 in each year, with the terms of one-third of the members expiring in each year.  All current members of the Authority shall remain as members until the expiration of their current term.  Whenever a vacancy occurs the Selectmen shall appoint a successor to hold office for the unexpired portion of the term.  A member of the Authority shall continue in office until his successor is appointed.  All appointments, reappointments, and appointments to fill any vacancy shall be made in accordance with the provisions of Connecticut General Statutes Sec. 9-167a in order to ensure minority representation.

SECTION 4- POWERS AND DUTIES

Except as limited herein, the Authority shall have all those powers conferred by law on water pollution control authorities including the power to establish and revise rules and regulations for the control and use of a sewage system, including rules and regulations prohibiting or regulating the discharge into a sewage system of any sewage or any storm water runoff which in the opinion of the Authority will adversely affect any part of any process of the sewage system.

SECTION 5- OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES; RECORDS OF PROCEEDINGS

The Authority shall elect a Chairman from among its own members at the first meeting and annually thereafter at the first meeting held after the fifteenth day of October in each year.  The Town Treasurer shall serve as the Treasurer of the Authority.  The Collector of Water Pollution Control Revenues shall collect all assessments and other charges, if any, imposed by the Authority.  The Authority shall appoint a Secretary, who need not be a member of the Authority, and an attorney.  The Secretary shall keep a complete record of the proceedings of the Authority and shall file the same with the Town Clerk.  All such records shall be open for public inspection at reasonable hours.  Meetings of the Authority may be called by the chairman or any two members upon twenty-four hours notice thereof.

SECTION 6- ANNUAL BUDGET

The Authority shall annually prepare a budget setting forth estimated revenues  and proposed expenditures at the same time,  in the same form and  in the same manner for inclusion in the Selectman's budget as all other Town offices, boards and commissions now or may hereafter be required to submit their budgets to such Board of Selectmen.  The Board of Finance shall review and act on the annual budget of the Authority in the same manner as it reviews and acts on all other budgets included in the Selectmen's budget.

SECTION 7- ACCOUNTING

All accounting books and financial records of the Authority shall be kept and maintained by the same personnel who are responsible for keeping and maintaining the accounting records to the Town, and such records shall be subject to annual audit of the Town as required by law.

Amended & Approved 10-8-2015
Posted 10-15-2015
Effective 11-1-2015
9-4 Stafford Sanitary Landfill

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9-4 Stafford Sanitary Landfill

Definitions:

  1. Town shall mean the Town of Stafford, a municipal corporation located in Tolland County of the State of Connecticut.
  2. Sanitary Landfill Area shall mean any area of land owned, rented or leased by the town, now or in the future, which is specifically set aside for the disposal of refuse.
  3. Person shall mean any institution, public or private corporation, individual, partnership, or other entity.
  4. Refuse shall mean all solid wastes including garbage, ashes, rubbish, small dead animals, street cleanings, brush, grass clippings, trees, building materials, and solid market and industrial wastes.

Regulations

The Selectmen shall establish rules and regulations for the maintenance of said Sanitary Landfill Area in an efficient, safe and sanitary manner. In addition, the following regulations shall apply:

  1. Admission by Permit Only. The Sanitary Landfill Area shall be used solely for the disposal of refuse from premises in the Town only. Admission shall be by Facilities Use Permit, issued by the Town.
  2. Hours of Operation. The Area shall be open only at certain hours on days of the week so designated by the Selectmen and notice thereof shall be posted.
  3. Prohibited Materials. No radioactive, explosive, poisonous, or similar hazardous materials, no body wastes such as that collected from septic tanks, and no tree trunks or stumps measuring eight inches or more in diameter at the largest end shall be deposited at the Sanitary Landfill Area.
  4. Refuse Collectors - License Required. Each person offering refuse removal as a service to others directly or indirectly desiring to use the landfill disposal area, shall obtain a permit, which permit shall be issued by the First Selectman or his delegate. The fee for said permit shall be established by the Board of Selectmen. The permit requirement shall not apply to the occupants of a dwelling who collect or haul only refuse which is incidental to the maintenance of said dwelling.
  5. Temporary Permit. Any person, resident or nonresident, who for hire engages in the process of demolition, construction or renovation in the Town and who hauls refuse resulting therefrom for disposal at the Sanitary Landfill Area, shall obtain a temporary permit, for each job, from the Town Building Office.
  6. Violations. Violations of any section of this ordinance by any person shall be

punishable by a fine of not more than $50.00 for each offense, and each day that the violation shall exist or continue shall be deemed a separate offense.

In addition, the First Selectman or his designate shall have the power to suspend or revoke any permit issued under these regulations upon reasonable notice that the permittee has violated any of these regulations and/or written rules established by the Selectmen or their designate.

  1. Disposal Area. Any person disposing of refuse in the Sanitary Landfill Area shall dispose of   such refuse by dumping or otherwise, in specific locations as determined by, and under supervision of the Custodian of the Area.
  2. Scavenging Prohibited. Scavenging at the area without express written authorization by the First Selectman shall be prohibited.
  3. Trespassing. No person shall enter or be permitted within the Area except during the hours when the Area is open to the public and the Custodian is on duty.
  4. Covered Loads. Any vehicles carrying refuse to the Area shall carry such refuse, either by covering it or in some other suitable manner, so that such refuse shall not blow or fall off the vehicle.
  5. Recycled Materials. When materials are brought to the Area in a condition in which they may be recycled, they shall be placed in the appropriate areas designated for such materials.
  6. Invalidity. If any provision of this ordinance or its application to any person is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect any other provision or application of the same.

Date: October 13, 1988

9-5 Stafford Recycling

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9-5 Stafford Recycling

An ordinance establishing a mandatory program for recyclable materials, promulgating rules and regulations for the separation, recovery, collection, storage and disposition of said material and prescribing penalties for the violation thereof:

WHEREAS, the growing shortage of acceptable solid waste landfill sites and the conservation of recyclable material is an important public concern; and 

WHEREAS, the promotion of the public good is best served by establishing rules and regulations for the separation, recovery, collection, storing and disposal of said recyclable material; and

WHEREAS, the Connecticut State Legislature has made recycling mandatory under P.A. No. 90-220, effective January 1, 1991;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Town of Stafford, in the County of Tolland and the State of Connecticut as follows:

Section 1 - Definitions

"Apartment." The term "apartment" refers to a building or set of buildings which contain three or more apartment units in which residents live and which is owned by a single owner (partnership or corporation).

"Cardboard." The term "cardboard" as used herein shall mean corrugated boxes and similar corrugated and kraft paper materials which have a minimum of contamination by food, liquid or other material.

"Commingled." The term "commingled" used herein shall mean source-separated, uncontaminated recyclable materials that have been mixed at the source of generation (i.e. placed in the same container).

"Designated Recyclable Materials." The term "designated recyclable materials" used herein shall mean those recyclable materials designated by the Town of Stafford to be source separated. The term includes, but is not limited to, newspaper, glass and metal food containers, plastic food and laundry containers, car batteries, cardboard, office paper, scrap metal, waste oil, scrap tires and leaves.

"Glass Food Container." The term "glass food container" as used herein shall mean a white, green or brown glass bottle or jar of any size or shape used to package food or liquid products suitable for human or animal consumption.

"Hazardous Waste." The term "hazardous waste" as used herein shall mean all solvents, acids, pesticides, herbicides, oils, chemicals and other toxic or hazardous materials.

"Intermediate Processing Center." The term "intermediate processing center" used herein shall mean a facility which can recycle an item and market or deliver for reuse the resulting material product or products.

"Metal Food Container." The term "metal food container used herein shall mean an aluminum, bimetal, steel, tinplated steel, or other metallic can, plate or tray of any size or shape used to package food or liquid products for human or animal consumption.

"Newspaper." The term "newspaper" used herein shall mean used or discarded newsprint of the type distributed daily or weekly which has a minimum contamination by food or other material.

"Office Paper." The term "office paper" used herein shall mean used or discarded high-grade white paper and manila paper including, but not limited to, paper utilized for file folders, tab cards, writing, typing, printing, computer printing, and photocopying, which is suitable for recycling and which has a minimum of contamination. Office paper generated by households is excluded.

"Plastic Food and Laundry Container." The term "plastic food and laundry container" used herein shall mean any plastic food or beverage container, milk jug, or laundry detergent container made of PETE or HDPE recyclable plastic.

"Recyclable Material." The term "recyclable material" used herein shall mean materials which would otherwise become solid waste, which can be separated, collected and processed, and returned to economic use in the form of raw materials or products; and shall include the items listed in Section 4, paragraph A,B and C thereof.

"Recycling." The term "recycling" used herein shall mean any process by which materials, which would otherwise become solid waste, are separated, collected and processed, and returned to economic use in the form of raw materials or products.

"Recycling Container." The term "recycling container" used herein shall mean specifically marked plastic containers which may be provided by the Contractor or the Town to dwelling units in the Town.

"Resident." The term "resident" used herein shall mean any human being residing within the Town of Stafford on a temporary or permanent basis.

"Residential Property." The term "residential property" used herein shall mean property used as a place of residence by any resident.

"Scrap Tires." The term "scrap tire" used herein shall mean discarded motor vehicle tires without rims.

"Scrap Metal." The term "scrap metal" used herein shall mean used or discarded items made of ferrous metals, aluminum, brass, copper, lead, chromium, tin, nickel or alloys thereof including, but not limited to, white goods and metal food containers.

" Solid Waste." The term "solid waste" used herein shall mean all refuse generated by occupants of residential, commercial, and industrial property within the Town.

"Source Separate." The term "source separate" used herein shall mean to separate recyclable materials from the solid waste stream at the point of waste generation.

"Stafford Recycling Center." The term "Stafford Recycling Center" used herein shall mean the Town drop-off facility located at the Upper Road landfill site.

"Storage Battery." The term "storage battery" used herein shall mean lead acid batteries or other batteries used in motor vehicles such as, but not limited to, automobiles, airplanes, boats, recreational vehicles and tractors.

"Waste Oil." The term "waste oil" used herein shall mean crankcase oil that has been utilized in internal combustion engines.

Section 2 - Effective Date

This ordinance shall become effective in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes after adoption at a town meeting.

Section 3 - Recycling Program Established

  1. Commencing on the effective date set fourth above it shall be mandatory for all residents of  residential property (including condominiums and apartments), occupants of business and industrial property and of private, public and governmental institutions and buildings to engage in recycling as provided hereafter.
Materials designated as recyclable for this program in accordance with this action shall consist of the following materials:

  1. Newspaper
  2. Glass food containers
  3. Metal food containers
  4. Plastic food and laundry containers
  5. Cardboard
  6. Scrap Metal
  7. Car batteries
  8. Waste motor oil
  9. Scrap tires
  10. Leaves
  11. Office paper
  12. Other recyclable materials as designated by the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Stafford thirty (30) days after designation and publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the area.

Section 4 - Separation of Recyclable Material

Residential Property:

On or after the effective date of this ordinance, it shall be mandatory for all persons who are occupants of residential property (including condominiums) to separate cardboard, glass food containers, metal food containers, newspaper, scrap metal, storage batteries, plastic food and laundry containers, tires, and leaves as hereinafter defined, from all other solid waste generated by such residence for collection and ultimate recycling of said materials.

Business and Industry:

On or after the effective date of this ordinance, it shall be mandatory for all occupants of business and industrial property and of private, public and governmental institutions and buildings (where the number of occupants exceeds one, the chief executive officer of the entity occupying said property, institution or building), to separate cardboard, glass food containers, metal food containers, newspaper, office paper, scrap metal, plastic food and laundry containers, tires, storage batteries, and leaves from all other solid waste generated by said nonresidential establishments for collection and ultimate recycling of said material.

Apartments and Residential Units:

On or after the effective date of this ordinance, it shall be mandatory for all apartment owners or managers and condominium associations, to separate cardboard, glass food containers, metal food containers, newspaper, office paper, scrap metal, plastic food and laundry containers, tires, storage batteries, and leaves from all other said waste generated by the tenants of said apartments for collection and ultimate recycling of said materials.

Additional Recyclable Materials:

There shall be added to the list of recyclable materials described in paragraphs A,B and C above, those items which are hereafter added to the list of recyclable materials contained in Chapter 446d of the Connecticut General Statutes and the regulations of the State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection in accordance therewith and/or as designated by the Board of Selectmen as specified in Section 3 B (12).

Section 5 - Curbside Residential Collection

  1. Collection Options

Residents may choose to contract for curbside collection of designated recyclables by a private waste hauler registered to do business with the Town of Stafford.

  1. Containers and Fees

The Town will provide each residential unit a recycling container at Town expense. If the container is lost, stolen or misplaced, then the replacement container shall be furnished at the expense of the resident. Replacement or additional containers shall be obtained from the Town at a price established

by the Board of Selectmen.

  1. Designated Items for Curbside Collection
  2. Newspapers
  3. Corrugated cardboard
  4. Metal food containers and aluminum foil
  5. Glass food containers
  6. Plastic food and laundry containers

  1. Curbside Collection Schedule
  2. Curbside collection of designated recyclables  in recycling containers shall be on the regular trash collection day unless otherwise authorized by the Director of Public Works.
  3. Curbside customers shall make provisions for the disposal of the other designated recyclable items, described in Section 7 of this ordinance, at the Stafford Recycling Center.

  1. Preparation of Recyclables for Curbside Collection
  2. Items designated for curbside collection shall be separated and placed into the recycling container provided by the Town.
  3. The recyclable items shall be prepared as described in Section 7 of this ordinance.

Section 6 - Nonresidential Disposal

It shall be the responsibility of each nonresidential establishment or their agent to have said recyclable material source separated and collected; and to enter into a private agreement with a contractor to have the recyclable material properly transported to the recycling facilities as established by the Town, unless otherwise authorized by the First Selectman.

Section 7 - Preparation of Recyclables

  1. Residents shall separate and prepare designated recyclable items in the following manner:
  2. Newspaper - Uncontaminated newspapers and inserts shall be tied with string or placed in paper bags.
  3. Glass Food Containers - Clear, brown and green glass food containers, for human and animal consumption, shall be washed clean, and nonmetal lids and caps are to be removed and discarded.
  4. Metal Food Containers - Tin, aluminum and other metal food containers, for human and animal consumption, shall be washed clean, and nonmetal lids are to be removed and discarded.
  5. Plastic Food and Laundry Containers - Plastic food and beverage containers, milk jugs and laundry detergent bottles made of PETE or HPDE recyclable plastic shall be washed clean, and lids and caps are to be removed and discarded.
  6. Corrugated Cardboard - Uncontaminated cardboard shall be broken down flat.
  7. Scrap Metal - Scrap metal shall be separated into light, heavy and aluminum metal and all nonmetal parts shall be removed.
  8. Motor Vehicle Batteries - Scrap motor vehicle batteries shall be whole and unbroken.
  9. Waste Motor Oil - Waste crankcase oil shall be transported in closed containers and shall be free of any other substance.
  10. Scrap Tires - Scrap motor vehicle tires shall be free of rims or other contaminates.
  11. Leaves - Leaves shall be composted in the backyard or garden by the individual property owners or may be deposited at a Town approved composting site.
  12. Office Paper - White office paper shall be prepared for separation by commercial and governmental offices and buildings in accordance with Section 1.

  1. All occupants of business and industrial property and private, public and governmental institutions and buildings and apartments shall prepare recyclables for collection as follows:
  2. The owner or occupant of business and industrial property and of private, public and governmental institutions and buildings shall separate the recyclable materials from all other solid waste and contract with an approved waste collector for the proper transporting of the recyclable material, unless otherwise authorized by the First Selectman.
  3. Where the building, institution or property contains two or more entities, then the chief executive officer or manager of said building, institution or property shall establish a recycling program with all occupants and contract with an approved waste collector for the collection and proper transporting of the recyclable material, unless otherwise authorized by the First Selectman.
  4. The owner or manager of an apartment complex shall establish with all tenants a procedure for the separation and storage of all recyclable material and shall contract with an approved waste collector for the collection and proper transportation of the recyclable materials, unless otherwise authorized by the First Selectman.

Section 8 - Waste Haulers

  1. All waste haulers and collectors shall register with the Department of Public Works, and gain Town approval for hauling recyclable material prior to any transporting or collecting of any recyclable materials.
  2. The Director of Public Works shall adopt and implement application forms to identify the waste hauler, his address, name of the responsible person, mailing address, telephone number, emergency telephone number, and evidence of insurance for general liability for operation of a motor vehicle and contamination resulting from improper handling of waste material in the Town.
  3. All waste haulers or collectors operating within the Town of Stafford shall
  4. notify the Town's Director of Public Works of those persons, partnerships or corporations that have discarded recyclable material as defined in Section 3 B of this Ordinance with other solid waste.
  5. No waste hauler or collector shall knowingly mix recyclable material with other solid waste.
  6. Any waste hauler or collector who violates this Ordinance shall be subject to the penalties provided herein as well as those penalties provided by the Connecticut General Statutes.

Section 9 - Authorization

  1. The Selectmen are hereby granted the authority to adopt regulations, policies or procedures to implement the following:
  2. The method and time of residential pickup of recyclable material.
  3. Amendments to the list of items subject to recycling.
  4. Changes in the location of any collection centers.
  5. Regulations to identify, qualify and assure financial and general compliance of waste haulers with this Ordinance.

Section 10 - Unlawful Acts, Violations and Penalties

  1. It shall be unlawful to combine recyclable materials or hazardous wastes with refuse. Refuse which has recyclable material commingled with it shall not be collected, and recyclable material that has refuse commingled with it shall not be collected.
  2. It shall be the responsibility of the resident to properly segregate the uncollected waste and either store or dispose of it at their own expense.
  3. Allowing refuse to accumulate shall subject a resident to a citation for violation of the Town Sanitary Code.
  4. Failure to recycle is a violation of the Ordinance.
  5. The recycling container shall be kept clean and stored in such a location as not to constitute a nuisance or otherwise be objectionable.
  6. No person having custody or control of residential premises from which recyclables are collected for disposal by the Town of Stafford shall permit or cause any recyclables within his custody or become a nuisance of any sort.
  7. No person or corporation shall separate, recover, collect, remove, store, or dispose of recyclable material within the Town of Stafford, except as specifically authorized by the Town of Stafford or the provisions of this Ordinance.
  8. No person, partnership, firm, or corporation other than the authorized agents of the Town or employees of the Town acting in the course of their employment shall collect or pickup or cause to be collected or picked up such recyclable material. Each and every such collection or pickup in violation of this section shall constitute a separate and distinct offense.
  9. Any person, firm or corporation found guilty of a violation of any provision of this Ordinance or any of the Rules and Regulations promulgated pursuant hereto shall be guilty of an infraction as provided by the Connecticut General Statutes as amended and the fines established pursuant thereto. This Ordinance and the Regulations pursuant thereto may be enforced by police officers of the Town and State of Connecticut.
  10. In addition to any other penalty provided herein, occupants of business and industrial property                 

That are considered a commercial establishment under the provisions of Public Acts 90-249, and 90-220 shall, for violations of this Ordinance, be subject to the following penalties:

  1. For the first offense, a written warning will be issued.
  2. For the second offense, or any subsequent offense, a fine not to exceed $500.00, for each violation as provided in said Public Acts.
Any person who illegally disposes solid waste at a landfill located in the Town shall be subject to the following penalties:

  1. For the first offense, a written warning will be issued.
  2. For the second offense, a fine of $50.00.
  3. For the third offense, or any subsequent offense, a fine of $100.00.

  1. Any commercial hauler who illegally disposes of solid waste at a landfill located in the Town shall be subject to the following penalties:
  2. For the first offense, a written warning will be issued.
  3. For a second offense, a fine of $1,000.00.
  4. For the third, or any subsequent offense, a fine of $2,000.00.

Section 11 - Severability

The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. If any provision of this Ordinance or its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, said invalidity shall not offset any other provision or application of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application of the Ordinance.

Section 12 - Repealer

All provisions of any other Ordinance which are inconsistent with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.

Date: March 28, 1991
Effective Date: April 19, 1991

9-6 Disposal of Solid Waste Associated With Land and Building Lots

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9-6 An Ordinance Concerning Disposal of Solid Waste Associated With Land and Building Lots

Section 1: Purpose

The purpose of this ordinance is to reduce excess solid waste from the clearing of unoccupied real property and occupied property where an expansion or addition of structures on the property occurs.  Thus decreasing the costs associated with the disposal of such solid waste. In no manner is this ordinance intended to prohibit the disposal of solid or bulky waste which is customarily associated with lawn maintenance of an occupied residential property.

Section 2: Definitions

 For the purpose of this ordinance the following definition shall apply.

"Land and Building Lots" means any parcel of real property vacant and not occupied by a residential home or commercial building with a valid Certificate of Occupancy.

"Occupied Property" means and parcel of property occupied by a permitted, non-permitted, conforming, or non-conforming structure which may or may not have a valid certificate of occupancy.

"Solid Waste / Bulky Waste" means any material such as, but not limited to, wood, brush, tree limbs, tree stumps, and construction materials. (excluded are materials such as sheet rock, wire, copper and plastic piping or other materials associated with the construction of a new home in which the owner or agent would normally be required to pay a fee based on its weight).

"Agent" means any person, persons, cooperation, contractor, subcontractor, or entity acting directly or indirectly for or on behalf of the owner of real property.

Section 3: Prohibited Activity

  1. No owner of a building lot or land, or agent thereof shall clear said land in preparation for home and or building construction without first obtaining a zoning permit to construct a home and or building.
  2. No owner of land or agent thereof shall discard any solid waste associated with land preparation for the purpose of home and or building construction in the Town of Stafford Transfer Station.
  3. No owner of land or agent thereof shall discard any solid waste associated with maintenance of vacant land such as wood, brush, stumps, or other vegetation in the Town of Stafford Transfer Station.
  4. No owner of occupied property or agent thereof shall discard any solid waste associated with the expansion of a home or building in the Town of Stafford Transfer Station; unless provided for elsewhere in this Ordinance.

Section 4: Penalty for Violation

Pursuant  C.G.S. 7-152(d) the First Selectman or designee may issue a citation in the amount of ($ 250) to any owner of real property from which the material originated who causes a violation of this ordinance. The Town of Stafford shall retain all amounts collected.

Nothing contained in this ordinance shall constitute a waiver by the Town to exercise all its right under Connecticut General Statute to exercise any portion of this ordinance; or other ordinances, regulations, or laws.

The First Selectman may designate any of the following people as enforcement agents for the aforesaid ordinance, members of the Board of Selectmen, Resident Trooper(s), all town constables, whether certified or not, Issuing Officer, and the superintendent and foremen of the Town of Stafford Public Works Department.

Section 5: Citation Appeal and Hearing Process

  1. A person who chooses to appeal a citation and requests a hearing to this effect shall be given written notice of the date, time and place for the hearing by hand or by Certified Mail, return receipt requested. Such hearing shall be held no less than fifteen (15) days nor more than thirty (30) days from the date of mailing of the notice, provided the Hearing Officer shall grant upon good cause shown any reasonable request by an interested party for postponement or continuance. Upon request of the person appealing the citation, the presence of the Issuing Officer shall be required at the hearing. The First Selectman may designate one or more persons in addition to the Issuing Officer to present evidence on behalf of the Town. A person wishing to contest liability shall appear at the hearing and may present evidence on his or her behalf. Alternatively, the Hearing Officer may accept written information from the person who received the citation and may determine thereby that the appearance of such person is unnecessary. If the person who received the citation fails to appear or has not submitted relevant written information as specified above, the Hearing Officer may enter an assessment of default against him or her upon a finding of proper notice and liability under the applicable provisions of this Ordinance.
  2. In the event that the Hearing Officer determines that he or she will not have an adequate opportunity to review documentation provided by any party to the hearing on the date of the hearing, he or she may order the hearing to be continued to a later date.
  3. The Hearing Officer shall conduct the hearing in the order and form, and with such methods of proof, as he or she deems fair and appropriate. The rules regarding the admissibility of evidence shall not be strictly applied, but all testimony shall be given under oath or affirmation. The Hearing Officer shall announce his or her decision at the end of the hearing. If the Hearing Officer determines that the person who received the citation is not liable, the Hearing Officer shall dismiss the matter and enter that determination in writing accordingly. If the Hearing Officer determines that the person who received the citation is liable for the violation, the Hearing Officer shall forthwith enter and assess the fines against the person as provided by this Ordinance.
  4. If the person who received the citation does not a agree with the Hearing Officer's assessment, he or she may appeal the decision to the Superior Court in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Connecticut General Statutes.
  5. If the Hearing Officer's assessment is not paid on the date of its entry, the Hearing Officer shall send by First Class Mail a notice of assessment to the person found liable and shall file, not less than thirty (30) days nor more than twelve (12) months after such mailing, a certified copy of the notice of assessment with the Clerk of the Superior Court together with the applicable entry or filing fee. Further proceedings may then be held pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Connecticut General Statutes. The certified copy of the notice of assessment shall constitute a record of assessment.As provided by state law, the Clerk shall enter judgment, in the amount of such record of assessment and court costs, against such person in favor of the Town, and the Hearing Officer's assessment, when so entered as a judgment, shall have the effect of a civil money judgment and a levy of execution on such judgment may issue without further notice to such person.
  6. The First Selectman of the Town of Stafford shall appoint one (1) or more Citation Hearing Officers, who shall be other police officers or employees or persons who issues a citation pursuant to this ordinance.

Section 6: Survivability

Should any section of this ordinance be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of this ordinance as a whole, or any other part thereof.

Section 7: Effective Date

This Ordinance shall become effective 15 days after publication in a news paper having a general circulation in the Town of Stafford.

Adopted 11-12-09
Published 11-18-09
Effective 12-3-09

Section 10 - Parks

10-1 An Ordinance Concerning Town Parks and Recreational Facilities
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10-1 An Ordinance Concerning Town Parks and Recreational Facilities

The Town of Stafford authorizes the Board of Selectmen to regulate the hours of operation and use of Town parks and recreational facilities within said Town of Stafford.

Dated September 7, 1990

Section 11 - Miscellaneous And Historical

11-1 Validating the Acts of a Special Town Meeting in the Town of Stafford
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11-1 Validating the Acts of a Special Town Meeting in the Town of Stafford
Resolved by this assembly:


That the vote passed at a Town Meeting held in the Town of Stafford, on the sixteenth day of November, A.D. 1878, relating to the division of the third school district in the West parish in said Town, and also the division of the said district by a committee raised in the said Town Meeting, be, and the same is hereby, made legal and valid.

Approved, March 9, 1880
11-2 Adopting Roberts Rules of Order

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11-2 Adopting Roberts Rules of Order
That Roberts Rules of Order, (revised 1990) shall govern the proceedings of all Town meetings, commission meetings and board meetings of the Town of Stafford.

Date: June 29, 1978

11-3 Consolidation of Stafford and the Borough
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11-3 Consolidation of Stafford and the Borough
General Provisions

I-1. TITLE. This enactment, ,made and ordained in conformance with the HOME RULE ACT, and specifically General Statutes of Connecticut, Sections 7-195 to 7-201, Revision of 1958, as amended, shall be entitled the CONSOLIDATION ORDINANCE OF STAFFORD.

I-2. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Consolidation Ordinance is (1) to consolidate the units of local government known as the Borough of Stafford Springs and the Town of Stafford; (2) to allocate the local governmental functions and services to existing or newly created offices, departments, boards, commissions or other agencies of the Town of Stafford; (3) to define the areas in which such services are to be rendered; (4) to establish necessary tax districts to pay the cost of certain services; (5) to abolish unnecessary offices, departments, boards, commissions or other agencies of the Borough; (6) to distribute the assets and liabilities of the Borough; and (7)  to provide for any other matters required to effectuate the consolidation of the Borough and the Town and a unification of their governments.

Consolidation Provisions

II-1. CONSOLIDATION. The Borough of Stafford Springs and the Town of Stafford as heretofore established are hereby consolidated as one and the same body politic and corporate under the name "Town of Stafford" and comprising all that territory within the current boundaries of the Town of Stafford.

II-2.  VOTING DISTRICTS. At all elections hereafter held, until otherwise provided by law, the Town in its entirety shall be comprised of three voting districts. These districts include the two voting districts established in the Town of Stafford pursuant to Special Act adopted July 15, 1874 as revised by the creation of the third voting district established and approved at the August 8, 1977 town meeting.

II-3.  CORPORATE POWERS. All of the corporate powers heretofore enjoyed by the Borough of Stafford Springs, together with all additional powers conferred upon municipalities by the provisions of the General Statutes of Connecticut, as made and provided from time to time, shall continue to accrue to and inhere in the Town of Stafford without diminution by reason of the Consolidation Ordinance.

II-4.  CORPORATE SUCCESSION. The Town of Stafford shall perform all the

duties and have and exercise all of the rights, powers and privileges relative to matters conferred by law upon the Borough of Stafford Springs and shall be the successor of said Borough in all matters pertaining thereto.

II-5.  PROPERTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS.

  1. On and after the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance all property and other assets, all rights of action and all rights of every kind and description, together with all liens and securities therefore, which are or have been vested in or belong, or have belonged, to the Borough of Stafford Springs, are hereby transferred to and vested in the Town of Stafford; and the said Town of Stafford is henceforth liable for all debts, obligations and other liabilities of the said Borough of Stafford Springs, whatever the kind or description, and the said Town shall be the successor of the said Borough with respect thereto.
  2. All appropriations and bond or note authorizations of whatever sort heretofore approved by the Borough of Stafford Springs shall continue as valid appropriations and authorizations of the Town of Stafford for the use of the Service District even though unexpended or unissued. Any bonds or notes heretofore authorized by the Borough shall be issued hereafter by the Town, and the Board of Selectmen, or a majority thereof, and the Treasurer of the Town shall determine the particulars thereof, and the Treasurer of the Town shall determine the particulars thereof and exercise all other powers necessary for the proper issuance, sale and delivery thereof.
  3. No tax shall be laid nor shall any appropriation be made by the Borough of Stafford Springs after the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance. The Town of Stafford shall collect all outstanding taxes, penalties and interest of the Borough. All such outstanding taxes, penalties and interest of the Borough collected, after deducting the cost of collection thereof, shall be applied in accordance with appropriations of the Borough still in effect, and to pay the debts, obligations, liabilities and expenses of the Borough of Stafford Springs and the costs of the Service District services. All debts, obligations, liabilities and expenses of the Borough incurred as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance and all borrowings authorized by the Borough as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance and subsequently issued shall be paid from assets transferred to the Town from the Borough pursuant to this Consolidation Ordinance and from any special tax levied as provided in Section III-4 hereof unless otherwise voted by the Town.

II-6.    GOVERNMENTAL DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS. All of the duties and obligations of the Borough of Stafford Springs shall be performed or borne

henceforth by the Town of Stafford. All the governmental functions and services for the entire area of the Town of Stafford shall be allocated to the applicable offices, departments, boards, commissions and other agencies of the Town of Stafford, and all such functions and services previously rendered by either the Borough or the Town may only be rendered by the Town of Stafford.

II-7.    ELECTIVE AND APPOINTIVE OFFICES OF THE TOWN. All of the elected and appointed officers of the Town of Stafford on the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance shall continue to hold such positions, and persons hereafter continue to be elected and appointed to such positions in the same manner as heretofore provided by law, except as otherwise provided in this Consolidation Ordinance.

II-8.   ABOLITION OF BOROUGH OFFICES, DEPARTMENTS AND EMPLOYEES. All offices, departments, boards, commissions and agencies of the Borough of Stafford Springs are abolished on the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance including: (1) the Warden and Burgesses, (2) the Borough Clerk and Treasurer, (3) the Tax Collector, (4) the Assessors, (5) the Health Officer, (6) the Tree Warden, (7) the Borough Fire Marshall and Assistant Fire Marshal, (8) the Baliff and Assistant Baliff, (9) the Borough Attorney, (10) the Borough Zoning Board of Appeals, (11) the Warden and Burgesses in their capacity as Borough Board of Public Health, (12) the Warden and Burgesses in their capacity as Justices of the Peace, (13) the Warden and the Burgesses in their capacity as Borough Board of Relief, (14) the Borough Water Pollution Control Authority, (15) the Borough Board of Water Commissioners, (16) the Borough Highway Department, (17) the Borough Police Department and (18) the Borough Fire Department.

Highway Department employees employed by the Borough of Stafford Springs as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance may become employees of the Town of Stafford as of such date, but only with approval of the Board of Selectmen. All other Borough employees, if any, shall be terminated as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance.

II-9.    TRANSITION PROVISIONS. In order to effectuate the provisions of this Consolidation Ordinance and to facilitate the transition from the old forms of government of the Town and the Borough to the new form of unified municipal organization, the following provisions are made:

  1. Following the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance, the Board of Selectmen of the Town shall cause a detailed audit to be completed of the assets, liabilities, surplus, revenues and expenditures of the Borough of Stafford Springs as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance.
  2. Said audit shall be in a substantially similar format to the Town's annual audit. The cost of such audit shall be considered an expense of the Service District.
  3. All officers, boards, commissions and agencies of the Borough of Stafford Springs shall survive the adoption date and continue with their duties until the effective date of commissions and agencies shall continue to exercise the powers and to perform the duties enjoyed by them prior to the adoption date of this Consolidation Ordinance and shall continue to receive the same renumeration, if any, until the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance.
  4. On or prior to the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance all officers, departments, boards, commissions and agencies of the Borough of Stafford Springs shall turn over to their successors forthwith all books, records and property of every description.
  5. All officers, departments, boards, commissions and agencies of the Town shall exercise all their powers and duties for the entire Town as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance.

III.  SERVICE DISTRICT

III-1.    SERVICE DISTRICT AREA. There is hereby created a Service District which shall include the territory of the Borough of Stafford Springs on the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance. The territory of the Service District may be expanded to be added to or removed from the Service District.

III-2.    SERVICE DISTRICT SERVICES. The Town may provide for the collection of solid waste and the operation, maintenance, repair and replacement of sidewalks, street lighting and fire hydrants in the Service District. Service District services shall be limited to such services. All cost of providing any such services in the Service District shall be allocated to the amounts in the Town's annual budget for the Service District, unless any such service is provided on a Town-wide basis. Such costs may include, but are not limited to, salaries, wages, payroll taxes, fringe benefits, past and future pension costs, liability insurance, hazard insurance on any property made available for use by the Service District and any other expenses directly or indirectly related to the provision or administration of such services, the costs of acquiring, using, operating, maintaining, repairing and replacing any real or tangible personal property which is made available for use in administering or providing such services in the Service District, and the cost of financing such costs including debt service on any financing by the Town. Such requirement shall not be a limitation on the power of the Town to issue its bonds or notes secured by full faith and credit of the Town to finance such costs.

III-3.    SERVICE DISTRICT COSTS. The Town's annual budget shall include separately itemized amounts for the revenues and expenditures attributable to the

administration and provision of Service District services and any unpaid liabilities of the Borough of Stafford Springs. The Board of Selectmen shall include such amounts in its recommendations to the Board of Finance. Prior to submitting such recommendations each year, the Board of Selectmen shall solicit the recommendations of a Service District Commission. The Commission shall consist of seven electors and/or taxpayers of the Service District, at least four of which shall also be residents of the Service District. Members of such Commission shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen for two year terms, except that at the first appointment of said Commissioners, three members shall be appointed for one year terms and the remaining members shall be appointed for two year terms. Members of said Commission shall serve without pay. The Commission shall hold a public hearing before submitting its recommendations to the Board of Selectmen. The Board of Selectmen may increase, decrease, eliminate or add any item or amount to the recommendations of the Commission before submitting its recommendations to the Board of Finance.

III-4.    SERVICE DISTRICT TAX. The Service District shall constitute a separate taxing district for purposes of financing the provision and administration of Service District services and all unpaid debts, obligations, liabilities and expenses of the Borough of Stafford Springs. After adoption of the Town's annual budget, including the portion of such budget applicable to the Service District, the Board of Finance shall fix the tax rate in mills which shall be levied on the taxable property in the Service District for the next fiscal year. The tax levy shall be sufficient to raise sufficient taxes in addition to other revenues to defray the budgeted expenditures allocated to the Service District, any liabilities of the Borough of Stafford Springs, any estimated deficits for Service District costs, and shall take into consideration provision for uncollected taxes and other revenues, if any, shall be collected and invested by the Town and accounted for separately from other funds and accounts of the Town.

III-5.    ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATIONS. Additional appropriations for the Service District expenditures may be made by the Board of Finance and the Town as provided in the Connecticut General Statutes.

III-6.    SERVICE DISTRICT FUND. The Town shall hold in a separate fund or funds any funds and investments of the Borough of Stafford Springs existing on the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance and shall deposit therein when received all accounts receivable, and uncollected taxes, penalties, interest and fees of the Borough of Stafford Springs. Money in such funds shall be applied as provided in Section II-5 C. If the money remaining in such separate funds is insufficient to defray the liabilities of the Borough, the Board of Finance may levy a special tax on the taxable property in the Service District sufficient to cover said liabilities. Any moneys remaining in such separate funds shall be used exclusively for the expenditures and liabilities of the Borough of Stafford Springs and of the Service District.

TAX DISTRICTS

  1. TAX DISTRICTS. The entire Town of Stafford shall comprise one tax district. In addition, the Service District shall constitute an additional tax district.
EXTENSION AND REPEAL OF EXISTING LAWS

V-1.    TOWN LAWS AND ORDINANCES. All ordinances, resolutions, regulations and bylaws of the Borough of Stafford Springs and special acts of the State of Connecticut pertaining to the Town, except insofar as they may be inconsistent with the provisions of this Consolidation Ordinance, shall continue in full force and effect as the organic law of the entire area of the Town until duly amended, repealed or superseded ; and all such enactments, or such parts of any of them, as may be inconsistent with this Consolidation Ordinance are repealed hereby.

V-2.    BOROUGH LAWS AND ORDINANCES. All ordinances, resolutions, regulations, and bylaws of the Borough of Stafford Springs and special acts of the State of Connecticut pertaining to said Borough are repealed as of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance except for Sections 24, 28, 29, 30, 31,32, 33 and 34 of the By-Laws and Ordinances of the Borough of Stafford Springs, dated June 1st, 1887, which shall continue in full force and effect and are made ordinances of the Town until duly amended, repealed or superseded in the same manner as any other ordinance of the Town.

V-3.    WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY.

  1. As of the effective date of this Consolidation Ordinance, the Town's Water Pollution Control Authority shall exercise all rights and duties and have all the powers of the sewer authority and sewer commission set out in the "Ordinance Creating a Sewer Authority" which was adopted August 30, 1967, the Sewer Ordinance adopted October 24, 1978, The Ordinance adopted March 27, 1979, and the Amendment to the Sewer Ordinance adopted February 5, 1987 all of which Ordinances shall be in full force and effect except to the extent any provision thereof is inconsistent with the provisions of this Consolidation Ordinance.
  2. The Water Pollution Control Authority shall prepare an annual budget setting forth estimated revenues and proposed expenditures, at the same time, in the same form, and in the same manner for inclusion in the Selectmen's budget as all other Town offices, boards and commissions now or hereafter required to submit their budgets to the Board of Selectmen as set out in the 1967 Ordinance creating a Sewer Authority.
  3. The Board of Finance shall review and act on the annual budget of the Water Pollution Control Authority in the same manner as it reviews and acts on all other budgets included in the Selectmen's budget.
  4. Except as provided in paragraph E below, the Water Pollution Control Authority is further authorized to use any funds in its contingency fund for repairs, replacements and extensions of the Town's sewer system without prior approval from the Board of Selectmen or the Board of Finance or the Town Meeting.
  5. All employees of the Water Pollution Control Authority is further shall be employees of the Town subject to the authority of the Board of Selectmen and all salaries and benefits for employees of the Water Pollution Control Authority shall be paid from funds of the Water Pollution Control Authority.
  6. In accordance with the 1967 Ordinance creating a Sewer Authority, unless approved by the Board of Selectmen, the Water Pollution Control Authority shall not undertake to purchase or condemn real property or any interest therein or undertake to enter into any contract with any person outside the Town of Stafford or any municipality to provide or obtain sewerage system service for any sewerage.
SAVING CLAUSES

VI-1.    UNCONSTITUTIONALITY OR OTHER INVALIDITY. If any portion of this Consolidation Ordinance shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or, for any other reason, invalid, such adjudication shall not effect the remainder hereof, but such remainder shall continue in full force and effect until duly amended, repealed or superseded.

VII.        EFFECTIVE DATE

VII-1.    EFFECTIVE DATES. This Consolidation Ordinance shall take effect on the earlier of (a) January 1, 1992, or (b) on the first day of the second month following approval at a special election, except for the provisions contained in Section II-9 which shall take effect upon the adoption of this Consolidation Ordinance at referendum.

VII-2.    REFERENDUM APPROVAL. This Consolidation Ordinance shall not take effect until it has been duly approved at a referendum of the electors of the Town of Stafford to be held in conformance with the provisions of Section 7-199, General Statutes of Connecticut, Revision of 1958, as amended.

11-4 An Act Regarding the Right to Keep and Bear Arms
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11-4 An Act Regarding the Right to Keep and Bear Arms
WHEREAS:
 The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution insures that the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed; and

WHEREAS:   Article I, Section 15 of the Constitution insures that the people have the right to bear arms for the defense of themselves and the State;

We, being legal voters of the Town of Stafford, therefore request the following resolution be enacted at Town Meeting:
 
"The Town of Stafford does hereby declare that the people residing in the Town of Stafford shall be allowed to possess and exercise their inherent right to keep and bear arms".

Approved: November 10, 1982
11-5 Bidding and Purchasing Policy Ordinance
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11-5       Bidding and Purchasing Policy Ordinance                                            

Section I 
General Purpose

 To establish procedures for the purchase of goods and services for the Town of Stafford, with the exception of the Board of Education.

        A)This document is intended to provide guidance as to how and when certain services should be competitively bid. The policy                is intended to promote fairness among the competitive bid process while maintaining a flexible system of service                        procurement,
       B)All employees, including supervisors and department heads and any others authorized to make purchases for the Town will be responsible for following the provisions outlined in this policy when making purchases with Town funds, and
       C)The purpose of this policy is to obtain the best possible value to the Town and to protect the public interest.

Section II 
Advertising 
Advertising for all products and services shall include, in addition to any other appropriate media sources within available appropriations, and on the Internet or Town Website.

Section III
Bidder Qualifications

The Town of Stafford reserves the right to establish requirements for bid qualifications.  The Department Head in the process of approving or rejecting a bid or proposal shall consider the following factors:

A)The ability, capacity and skill of the bidder to perform the contract or provide the services required in relation to the standards and specifications required,

B)Whether the bidder can perform the contract or provide the service promptly or within the time      specified without delay or interference, 
C)The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience and efficiency of the bidder,
D)
The quality of performance of previous contracts or services provided to the Town, and,
E)Previous compliance by the bidder with ordinances related to contract bidding.
F)
The sufficiency of the financial resources and ability of the bidder to perform the contract or provide service,
G)
The quality, availability and adaptability of the supplies or contractual services to the particular use required.

Section IV 
Procedure of Competitive Bidding 
A) All purchasing of products or services exceeding $10,000 of the Town’s approved budget for any particular fiscal year, in which price is the primary criterion, shall be by sealed bid,
B)
All sealed bids shall be opened by the Department Head issuing the Request for Proposal (RFP) along with the presence of two other Town Employees.
C) The sealed bids shall be kept secure within the department issuing the RFP, and
D) Purchase orders, along with all required bond documents must be submitted with and attached to the signed contractual bid document.
Section V 
Awarding of a Bid

The Department Head issuing the RFP shall review the bid submissions and will then make a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen for approval. The bid contract will then be awarded to the bidder who has successfully offered the best possible value to the Town, and if such projects, products or services are approved budgetary items and that the award is within budgetary limitations. The Town reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Section VI
Local Vendor Preference 

Notwithstanding other grant restrictions or statutory requirements that supersede the competitive bidding requirements of this policy, the Board of Selectmen shall award the bid contract to a contractor having his/her principal place of business in the Town of Stafford subject to the following conditions:
A) The bid amount is not more than five percent (5%) higher than the lowest qualified bid. The local bidder must agree to match the lowest qualified bid. If more than one qualified local business submits a bid within this five percent (5%) threshold, then the business with the lower bid shall receive the local preference.
Section VII
No Response 

In the event that the department head and/or board does not receive any response, or receives fewer than three (3) responses, to any published notice, the department head and/or Board may than proceed to solicit other qualified contractors.
Section VIII
Non-Bidding Requirements 

For products and services of five thousand dollars $5,000 and up to $10,000 of the Town’s approved budget for any particular fiscal year, Town employees or officials must make every effort to obtain three price quotations, and attach them to the completed purchase order.  If a product or service being purchased is unique, or difficult to obtain quotations, Town employees or officials must note this in writing and attach this explanation to the completed purchase order form.  Department approvals are required on all invoices prior to being processed by two members of the Board of Selectmen.

Section IX 
Sale of Town Properties 

In the event of the sale of Town property, the Board shall publish in addition to any other appropriate media sources, a notice of sale in a newspaper circulating in the area most likely to attract purchasers and may solicit, in writing, written offers from persons deemed to be most likely to be interested in purchasing such town property.
Section X
Exceptions

This Bidding and Purchasing Policy, and the restrictions herein stated, shall not apply to the following circumstances:

A) Board of Education Purchasing: Purchases of products or services requested by the Board of Education, if it has adopted its own purchasing policy, except that it shall apply to joint purchasing or contracting by the Town and Board of Education.
B) Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) or Less: Purchase of products or services of five thousand dollars ($5,000) or less, in total.
C) Sole Source Contracts: Unique products or services, upon written determination that only one practical source for the required product or service is available.
D) Professional Services: Professional services shall be exempt from this Policy except as provided in Section XI.
E) Cooperative Purchasing: Products or services acquired through Cooperative Purchasing Agreements shall not apply to the Policy. Primary examples of which include State contracts and the Capital Region Purchasing Council.
F) Emergencies: If an emergency presents itself in which normal procedures of this Policy must be suspended due to a public safety risk, the First Selectmen or his/her designee shall be empowered to do so.
G) Preemptive Legislation: This Policy will not apply to special products, services or projects that are procured through preemptive State or Federal legislation.
H) Recurring Expenditures: Recurring expenditures such as utility bills, service maintenance contracts, and professional development costs shall be exempt from Policy provisions.
I) Artistic Endeavors: Work that is original and creative in character in a recognized field or artistic endeavor and the result of which depends on a person’s invention, imagination or talent.
J) Overriding Public Interest: If the Board of Selectmen determines that it is essential to protect the public interest, it may waive any provision of this ordinance for any single proposal for products or services, on a case by case basis.

Section XI
Professional Services

A) Professional services are defined as work requiring knowledge of an advanced type in a field of study and which frequently requires special credentialing, certification or licensure. Such areas include but are not limited to architectural, appraisal, actuarial, banking services, engineering, legal, insurance brokering and information technology services.
B) Professional services and consulting services of over ten thousand ($10,000) dollars shall be publicly solicited by a Request for Proposal (RFP), and awarded through the use of competitive negotiation. Eligible applications shall be reviewed by the Board of Selectmen or his/her designee.
C) Professional service providers shall not be dependent on the Town as their sole client and must be clearly considered an independent contractor as defined by state and federal laws, regulations and court decisions.
D) Any and all professional fees, commissions or other remuneration must be expressly disclosed before a contract is awarded.

Approved at Town Meeting 12-20-05
Revised March 23, 2017 
Published 4-4-2017 
Effective 4-19-2017

 

 

11-6 An Ordinance Establishing a Regional Council of Governments

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11-6     An Ordinance Establishing a Regional Council of Governments

BE IT ORDAINED by the Electors of the Town of Stafford at a duly warned meeting:

  1. The First Selectman is hereby authorized to request  of the Secretary of the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management, that the Town of Stafford be designated as part of the Capitol Planning Region, pursuant to Section 16a-4a(4) of the Connecticut General Statutes.
  2. To authorize the Town of Stafford to join the Capitol Region Council of Governments, if the secretary of the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management designates the Town of Stafford to be part of the Capitol Planning Region.
  3. The Town of Stafford hereby adopts Sections 4-124i through 4-124p of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended.
  4. Pursuant to Sections 4-124k and 4-124? (b) of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, in the absence of the chief elected official, the First Selectman shall designate one of the two remaining members of the Board of Selectmen as the representative on the council.
  5. The Town Clerk is directed to immediately prepare and file with the Secretary of Office of Policy and Management or his designee a certified copy of this Ordinance.

This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after publication of notice of its adoption in accordance with the Connecticut General Statutes.                                                                                                             

Published in the Journal Inquirer 8-18-2010              

Effective 9-2-2010   

11-7 Ordinance Regarding Political Signs

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11-7       Ordinance Regarding Political Signs

The purpose of this ordinance is to eliminate any hazard to the public by means of distraction, obstruction of site-lines and obstruction of walkways.

Definition:

"Political Sign" is any display utilized for the purpose of proposing or opposing the election of a candidate or ballot measure.

Prohibition of political signs on public property and in the public right-of-way:

No person shall place paint, mark or write on, post, attach, or otherwise affix, any sign to or upon any public property, including but not limited to any public building, sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, fence, wall, public playground equipment, and/or facilities, street lamp post, utility pole, hydrant, tree, street or traffic signs.

Additionally, no political sign shall be placed, posted, or otherwise affixed in the public right-of-way, including parkways or medians.

Political signs on private property:

They will not be placed in a manner that obstructs either vehicular traffic (either by physical obstruction or obstruction of sight lines) or pedestrian traffic. They shall not present a physical danger to persons or property.

Prohibition of Political Signs and Campaigning at polling property locations:

On the day of any election or referendum, no person shall or place, paint, mark or write on, post, attach, or otherwise affix, any sign to or upon any polling property locations, including but not limited to any public building, sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, fence, wall, public playground equipment, and/or facilities, street lamp post, utility pole, hydrant, tree, street or traffic signs.

Removal of signs:

Any sign which is an immediate peril or menace to the public or any person, or is posted on public property or in a public right-of-way may be removed without notice by the town. In the event signs are removed by the town, the candidate or his/her designee may retrieve their signs at the Department of Public Works garage.

Adopted              2-10-2011
Effective                 3-5-2011

11-8 Ordinance To Remove Member Or Alternate

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11-8  ORDINANCE TO REMOVE MEMBER OR ALTERNATE

Be it resolved by the Town of Stafford as follows:

In any case in which the Board of Selectmen has appointed a member or alternate to a board, committee or commission in accordance with any of the ordinances of the Town of Stafford, and notwithstanding the fact that said member or alternate has been appointed for a term of years, the Board of Selectmen may remove said member or alternate for cause.

Cause is defined as follows:

  1. The member or alternate is no longer eligible to serve on the board or commission to which he has been appointed;
  2. The member or alternate has been convicted of a felony;
  3. The member or alternate has engaged in any corrupt or fraudulent activity with respect to his conduct as a member or alternate of the board or commission (pending legal outcome).
  4. The member or alternate has not attended any meetings of the board or commission for a period of at least four consecutive meetings.
  5. Each incident will be on a case-by-case basis, in any case in which the Board of Selectmen intends to consider or act on the removal of a member or alternate, the member or alternate shall be given at least two weeks' written notice of the time and place of the meeting at which said removal shall be discussed or acted on. The Board of Selectmen will also here input from other members of said board, committee or commission regarding the removal of a member or alternate. Said written notice shall state the cause for removal and the particular actions of the member or alternate which constitutes said cause.  At any Board of Selectmen meeting at which the removal of a member or alternate is to be discussed or acted upon, said member or alternate shall be permitted either personally, or by counsel, to address the Board of Selectmen as to why he should not be removed.

This ordinance shall be effective fifteen (15) days from publication

Dated this 5th day of February 2016
Approved at Town Meeting 1-28-2016 

Published 2-5-2016 
Effective 2-20-2016 

11-9 Ordinance: Setting Hours of Voting at Referendum
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11-9 Ordinance: Setting Hours of Voting at Referendum


Whenever the Town of Stafford holds a referendum on any matter that is properly before the Town's legislative body, the polls shall be open for voting at said referendum from 6:00am to 8:00pm, at a polling place to be designated by the Board of Selectmen.
 
Approved at Town meeting 6-6-2019
Effective 6-29-2019
11-10 Right -To-Farm  Ordinance
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11-10    RIGHT-TO-FARM ORDINANCE

 Section 1: Purpose and Intent

Agriculture plays a significant role in Stafford’s heritage and future. The Town officially recognizes the importance of farming to its rural quality of life, heritage, public health, scenic vistas, tax base, wetlands and wildlife, and local economy. This Right-to-Farm ordinance encourages the pursuit of agriculture, promotes agriculture-based economic opportunities, and protects farmland within Stafford by allowing agricultural uses and related activities to function with minimal conflict with abutters and Town agencies.

It is the declared policy of the Town of Stafford to conserve, protect and encourage the maintenance and improvement of agricultural land for the production of food and other agricultural products and for its natural and ecological value. It is hereby further determined that whatever impact may be caused to others through generally accepted agricultural practices, such impact is offset and ameliorated by the benefits of farming to the neighborhood, community and society in general.

Section II: Definitions

The terms “agriculture” and “farming” shall have all those meanings set forth in Section 1-1(q) of the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended.

Section III: Right-to-Farm

No present or future agricultural operation conducted or maintained in a manner consistent with accepted agricultural practices, which is engaged in the act of farming as defined in this ordinance shall become or be considered a nuisance solely because such activity resulted or results in any changed condition of the use of adjacent land. Agricultural operations may occur any day or night provided such activities do not violate applicable health, safety, fire, zoning, wetlands, life safety, environmental or building codes and regulations and shall include, without limitations:

  • The incidental noise from livestock or farm equipment used in generally acceptable farming practices;
  • Odors from livestock, manure, fertilizer or feed;
  • Dust and fumes associated with normally accepted farming practices;
  • The use of agricultural chemicals provided such chemicals and the method of their application conform to practices approved by the State of Connecticut; and
  • Irrigation and water management associated with normally accepted farming practices.

Inspection and approval of the agricultural or farming operation, place, establishment or facility by the Commission of Agriculture of the State of Connecticut or his/her designee shall be prima facie evidence that such operations follow generally accepted agricultural practices. Nothing contained in this ordinance shall restrict the powers of Stafford’s Inland Wetlands Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission, Building or Health Departments under Connecticut General Statutes.

Adopted 4-26-2022

Effective 5-14-2022