Southbury First Selectman's June 25th Update
FARMERS' MARKET
The Southbury Farmers’ Market had a successful second week of business yesterday. In attendance were farms, bakeries and local entrepreneurs from Southbury and around the state. Once again, I encourage everyone to come out to the Town Hall Green and support our local businesses.
MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION
Earlier this week, Governor Ned Lamont signed into law a bill to legalize marijuana and regulate sales throughout the state. Retail sales will begin by the end of 2022 and require a license from the State. Our Zoning Commission will be discussing the topic in order to craft the Town’s regulation regarding cannabis establishments. There is the possibility of a temporary moratorium to afford them enough time to carefully develop the regulation. Southbury residents will have the opportunity to voice their thoughts about the new regulations during a public hearing at a later date.
SENIOR GRADUATION CAR PARADE
Pomperaug High School seniors were celebrated in a car parade around the Town last week. The event was a great demonstration of the resilience of the community. I would like to commend the class of 2021 in particular for their hard work throughout a difficult year. Congratulations to all graduates and best wishes for the future.
NEW BUSINESS IN TOWN
The Town recently welcomed a newly established shop, The Cottage at Main. Founded by Shirley Lenhard, The Cottage at Main offers events for both adults and children in numerous art mediums, yoga, and more. There is also a shop with a locally made selection of gifts. To schedule events and learn more, see here.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN
The Town has received half of the funds from the federal government’s American Rescue Plan totaling $2.896 million. We will be receiving the other half in June 2022. Currently, we have not received specific guidance on how the money can be appropriated. Once the federal government issues the parameters for spending, we will begin the process of determining where the funds will be utilized.
Tax season is upon us, and I would like to remind citizens that the due date for payment is Thursday, July 1st. There is a 30-day grace period after the submission deadline to submit payment, and interest will begin accruing after August 2nd. Tax bills were sent out this week. Real Estate taxes are the same as last year since the mill rate has not changed.
DOG LICENSES
I would also like to remind residents that the deadline for dog licenses is June 30th. The Town Clerk’s Office prefers applications by mail, but they are more than willing to help anyone who would like to come in-person to obtain their license. See here for more details.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
I want to wish all Southburians a happy and safe 4th of July weekend. I hope residents will take some time to relax and spend time with family and friends as we head into the summer season.
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