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Update: With tie BOF vote, plan to purchase riverfront property does not move forward at this time

By John Fitts

Staff Writer


Update: Monday, April 18. The Canton Board of Finance failed to move this plan forward, with some members expressing concerns with the agreement as drafted. While some members felt a delay could potentially cause the town to lose the chance purchase the property, the finance board deadlocked 3-3 on a motion to move forward. More to come.


Original story

CANTON – Pending final approvals, town residents might soon get a chance to vote - at a Town Meeting - on a plan to purchase state property along the Farmington River that would create both public parking and river access.

The town has the option to purchase 37 Bridge Street in Collinsville from the state Department of Transportation for $125,000. The acreage of 37 Bridge St. includes most of the parking lot adjacent to 41 Bridge Street - where Bridge Street Live, Collinsville Artisan Co-Op, Blumen Laden and others operate - and a portion of land along the riverbank behind 39 Bridge Street, where Collinsville Canoe and Kayak operates. It also includes roughly half of the paved boat launch area.

Under a plan recently reviewed by the Board of Selectmen, the town, after purchasing the property, would convey a portion of it to the owners of 41 Bridge Street in exchange for the privately owned portion of the existing boat ramp. Cross easements would then allow the public to access the town-owned parking area and ramp while also allowing the owners of Collinsville Canoe and Kayak to also continue utilizing the boat ramp.

“This is something that the town has wanted, sees value in and it’s taken us a long time to get to this point where we actually have a good vision for what this is and what this could be,” First Selectman Robert Bessel said at a recent Board of Selectmen meeting.

The plan has been several years in the making since the state first approached the town about the 2.25-acre parcel in the Spring of 2019. After approval of the idea from six state agencies and an appraisal conducted for the state the Department of Transportation, the agency, in June of 2021, notified the town of the $125,000 price tag.

In late summer of 2021, town officials formally reached out to abutters, according to town documents, which acknowledge there were several concerns about lease agreements for the land, property values, logistics, security, and delineation of public and private areas. Potential overcrowding and negative effects on the daily Collinsville Canoe and Kayak operation was also noted.

Since that time, the town has worked with the partners of Waterfront Preservation and Management Corp., which owns both 39 and 41 Bridge Street, on potential solutions.

While several ideas were discussed, the final proposal, according to town documents reviewed at the meeting by Chief Administrative Officer Robert Skinner, are as follows.

• Owner of 39 Bridge Street would grant to the Town ownership of the boat ramp in sufficient width for public access to the entire ramp.

• Town will grant the to the owner of 39 Bridge Street an easement over the entire boat ramp area for use of the boat ramp, including for commercial purposes.

• In exchange for conveyance of the boat ramp, the Town will covey to the owners of 41 Bridge Street the portion of parking immediately adjacent to the 41 Bridge Street commercial properties (paved area).

• The owners of 41 Bridge Street will convey back to the Town an easement over the parking area for use by the public to gain access to the 37 Bridge Street property.

Additionally, the plan would involve installation of wood guardrails and signage to clearly designate the public parking area. Skinner also noted that some brush might need to be removed in some areas, a move that could potentially require approval by the Canton Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency.

On March 30, the Board of Selectmen discussed the plan, noting some concerns and expressing surprise that much of the area was further behind the Canoe and Kayak buildings than they thought, but overall expressing enthusiasm for the idea.

“I like the proposal; I like the idea,” said Selectman Stephen Sedor, who noted he extensively reviewed the town's proposal "I, for one, am all in on this one.”

Selectman Tim LeGeyt expressed a few logistical concerns but also expressed support. Selectman Warren Humphrey, a member of the River Access Study Committee, also expressed support and noted he was holding back on ideas he had for the property until the process was further along.

Bessel acknowledged that the owners of Collinsville Canoe and Kayak have reported issues such as littering and some unruly behavior on and along the river.

“That is a concern,” he said. “What kind of control are we going to have there to at least dampen if not entirely eliminate that kind of behavior?"

Skinner said, in part, the town will have to put a couple of trash receptacles on site and noted the town pays approximately $6,000 per year to empty such receptacles in the downtown Collinsville area.

Bessel acknowledged the tenant would have to change their operation somewhat and find alternate storage solutions but felt it was a good solution overall and said overcrowding could be severe some days but said it was only an issue at certain times.

“It seems like an even exchange,” he said of the conveyance plans, “It satisfies the owners and I think that the tenant will easily be able to continue their operation.”

Selectman Bill Volovski said he feels the overcrowding will be dampened somewhat by the town’s plan to put in boat access at the Public Works garage site a little upriver. He also felt the purchase would greatly help with parking in Collinsville.

“To me the real value of this property [37 Bridge] has always been the potential for future parking for downtown,” he said. “I think it’s nice that we’re going to be able to get access to the river from there too but that is secondary to me to the fact that we’ll have additional parking for events and to whatever happens downtown.”

Reached in mid-April, Sue Warner, co-owner at Collinsville Canoe and Kayak, acknowledged some ongoing business operation concerns.

“We are very apprehensive and concerned about how the waterfront becoming completely public property will affect our business,” she said. “We are hoping the town and all the residents will be great partners and we are hoping for the best. We are going to have to change our operation significantly and are not sure if it's going to work or not and we’ll do the best we can.”

“It’s pretty frustrating after being part of this town for 32 years and expecting our 50-year lease to continue for the waterfront for an additional 18 years in the future,” Warner added. “Since that is going to be changed, we’re still hoping we can be a big part of this town.”

At the March 30 meeting, selectmen voted to refer the matter to the Board of Finance at an amount of up to $160,000 to cover the plan: $125,000 for the land, $800 for signage and between $20,00 and $32,000 – depending on style chosen - for wooden guardrails.

The purchase concept is not new to the Board of Finance, but it is set to formally take the matter up April 18. Additionally the project would need a positive referral from the Planning and Zoning Commission, town meet approval and final signed agreements and plans.

The matter could go to residents at town meeting for a vote as early as June.

A potential timeline for the potential public use - if approved - was not immediately available.

The Valley Press also has a message out to the owners of Waterfront Preservation and Management Corp. and will add those comments if received.


This rendering shows the 37 Bridge Street property and some of the proposed conveyances and easements.

This area shows some of the flagged lot lines for 37 Bridge Street. The line was further back in some areas than expected and officials noted that some brush might need removal - possibly requiring Inland Wetlands Agency approval.

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Valley Happenings

Fighting Cancer Pasta Dinner:

Benefit for Avon Volunteer Fire Department

Deputy Chief Dave Theriault

Saturday, February 22, 2025, 3:00-7:00 p.m. 

Avon Senior Center, 635 West Avon Road, Avon

AVFD Deputy Chief of Administration Dave Theriault is facing a tough battle against Stage 4 cancer. The AVFD, along with Tunxis Hose Co. No. 1 and the Farmington Fire Department, is holding a pasta dinner to help raise money for Chief Theriault’s medical expenses. In addition to delicious food, drinks, and camaraderie, the event will feature dozens of raffle prizes. Event tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for seniors and children under 10 years old. They can be purchased at the door or in advance at AVFD Headquarters, 25 Darling Drive, Avon (Mondays, 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. and Tuesdays-Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.). Contributions can be made via Venmo @supportDave or by mail to the AVFD at 25 Darling Drive, Avon, CT 06001. 

Canton Community Health Fund Applications

Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. Opens 2025 Application Season, on March 1, 2025, for Canton Community Partner Grants & Canton Scholars Pursuing Careers in Healthcare or Public Safety Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. (CCHF), opens its grant and scholarship application season March 1. CCHF encourages State of CT certified non-profits serving the Canton community to apply for Community Partner grants. In addition, graduating high school seniors seeking higher education in healthcare or public safety are invited to apply for either a Dr. Diters Legacy Scholarship or a Pay It Forward Scholarship. Applications and informative Fact Sheets are available online at www.cantoncommunityhealthfund.org.  Community Partner Grant and Scholarship awards will be announced in June/2025.

 

Avon Library events

AVON –The following events are scheduled at Avon Free Public Library. The library is at Avon Library, 281 Country Club Road, Avon. All programs are in person except where noted. For more information on adult programs, contact Adult Services Reference Desk via avonref@avonctlibrary.info 860-673-9712 x 7203

• Antique Map Collecting 101, Saturday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. Registration is required: https://www.avonctlibrary.info/event/antique-map-collecting/

• Morning Book Club. Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 10:30 a.m., The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose, Registration is required: https://www.avonctlibrary.info/events/tag/morning-book-club/

• Meditation for Balance and Inner Contentment. (Virtual Event) Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 pm.

• Eastern Coyotes in Connecticut (Virtual Event) Thursday, Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m.

• Fashion and the First Lady (Virtual Event). Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m.

• Hoop Skirts to Flappers: Eighty Years of Connecticut Fashion. Monday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.

• The Golden Age of Hollywood. (Virtual Event) Tuesday, March 4 at 2 pm.

 

Simsbury Lions Club

The Simsbury Lions Club is looking for people interested in volunteering and contributing to better our town. Our motto is “We serve,” and we do so by volunteering at local events and donating our proceeds to serving interests in our community.

If interested, please feel free to contact Sandy Kremer at Tprkremer@gmail.com or Philip Painchaud at painchaudp@gmail.com.”

 

Winter sowing workshop

The Farmington Land trust is hosting a winter sowing workshop focused on raising native plants. Make your own up-cycled greenhouse from a milk jug and prep some beneficial native plants for the coming growing season. Sunday, Feb 2 from 11a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Farmington Senior Center. RSVP here: https://www.farmingtonlandtrust.org/event-details/winter-sowing-seminar-native-seed-planting

 

Wild Flowers from Spring to Fall

CANTON – The Cherry Brook Garden Club is hosting a lecture on “Following Our Wild Flowers from Spring to Fall” on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Canton Community Center, lower level, 40 Dyer Avenue. Steve Messier, Lichenologist and former Science teacher at Canton High School will discuss the topic. The lecture is open to the public. There is a $5 guest fee for non-members. Email questions to cherrybrookgardenclub@gmail.com.

 

‘Five Wishes’ at McLean

SIMSBURY – Join Kevin Baran, M.D., medical director, and the McLean Hospice Team for a special “McLean & Me Educational Series” presentation to learn how to talk about and record your wishes for care through the end of life, so those wishes can be understood and respected. The presentation will be held at McLean’s Garmany Performing Arts Center, 50 Sarah Lane, Simsbury, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m. The presentation is free but an RSVP by Feb. 4 is required as seating is limited. A light dinner will be provided.

To register, visit McLeanCare.org/Events, email Margaret.Clark@McLeanCare.org, or call 860-658-3718.

 

‘Art Throb!’ Exhibit

Gallery on the Green presents “Art Throb!” Exhibit plus a Solo Exhibit by Kathi Packer Friday, Feb. 14 through Saturday, March 15. An opening reception is on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 6-8 p.m. and will include refreshments. The show and reception are free.

“Art Throb!” is a heartfelt Valentine’s Day celebration presented by the membership of Canton Artists’ Guild. The artists use a wide range of media including painting, prints, drawing, photography, sculpture, ceramics and mixed media to represent the emotional intensity, joy and complexity of love.

In the upstairs Gallery, Kathi Packer has a solo show, “Another Tale.”  Packer notes that a friend’s casual invitation to go on safari in 2008 substantially changed the direction of her artistic journey.The gallery is located near the intersection of Dowd Avenue and Route 44 at 5 Canton Green Road in Canton. Hours are Friday – Sunday, 1-5 pm. The main floor gallery is handicapped accessible.

Website: http://www.galleryonthegreen.org; Phone:  860-693-4102

 

TABLESCAPES fundraiser returns to benefit the new

Avon History Museum

AVON – The Avon Historical Society invites the public to its sixth TABLESCAPES event showcasing up to 30 creative and original table settings on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15 at the historic North House, 1 Nod Road, Avon.

This event will feature themed table settings from local professional designers, florists, businesses, individuals, artists and others featuring fresh floral arrangements, centerpieces and accessories. Proceeds will benefit the installation of professionally curated exhibits in the new Avon History Museum scheduled to open on Friday, July 4, 2025.

Back by popular demand will be a “Table and Barware Tag Sale” on both days. Admission to TABLESCAPES includes the tag sale. Tickets are $20 each pre-sale and at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at www.avonhistoricalsociety.org or by calling Mary Harrop at 860-670-3225 before March 8.

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can also call Harrop.

 

Alzheimer’s Support Group

FARMINGTON – Hearts, Hugs & Hope: An Alzheimer’s Support Group takes place Feb. 20, 2025, 6 p.m. at Farmington Station Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 111 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group is being offered both in person and via Zoom on the third Thursday of each month. If you plan to attend, contact Director of Compass Programming Katherine Jedynasty at kjedynasty@farmingtonslr.com.

 

Used book sale

AVON - A huge book sale will be held Feb. 28 and March 1 in St. Ann’s Church Hall, 289 Arch Road at Route 167.  Hours are Friday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. ($5 adult admission) and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (no admission fee).

Thousands of books will be organized in separate sections, including Fiction, History, Biography, Politics, Children, Music, Cooking, Sports, Art, Vintage, and more!  A large selection of Children’s books will be available.  Fiction books will be divided by hardcover, paperback, and trade paperback and sorted alphabetically by author.  DVDs, CDs, books on CDs, Vinyl records, and puzzles will be available, also.  Most books will be $3 or less with vintage and specialty books priced higher.

 

Daisy Days: All-Girls Summer Day Camp Experience

FARMINGTON – Miss Porter’s School, a renowned institution with a legacy of empowering young women, is excited to announce the launch of Daisy Days, an all-new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5 this fall. Starting this summer, Daisy Days will offer a unique, joy-filled experience designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and inspire self-discovery in an empowering all-girls environment.

For additional details, visit pcgl.porters.org/daisy-days.

 

Artist demonstration

Avon Arts Association will hold a guest artist demonstration featuring  Granby artist Laura Eden on Tuesday, February 18 at  Avon Town Hall, 60 W. Main St., lower level, at 6:30 p.m. Ms. Eden will demonstrate egg tempera painting.

The demo is free and open to the public ($5 suggested donation). A workshop with Ms. Eden will be held at the same location in the Avon Room on Saturday, Feb. 22, 10-2 with  set up at 9:30. Fee: $45 for members, $55 for nonmembers). www.AvonArts.org

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