Selectmen discuss train station renovations

SALISBURY — The renovation of the Lakeville train station topped the agenda of the Salisbury Board of Selectmen’s held regular meeting  held online Monday, Mar. 6.

The selectmen discussed the ongoing renovations and lifting of the Lakeville train station. Firstly, there is an 80 page assessment by Crosskey Architects available on the town website (click on “town documents”).

The report states that at a minimum, the building will need to be lifted, but it is also possible the building will be moved slightly back for its protection and receive a new foundation. It may also be spun 180 degrees. If all of these options were done together, the total price of all renovations is $731,480. It will not be moved from the site entirely. The selectmen are still debating what to do, but are in conversation with the State Historic Preservation Office and will be pursuing further grants and funding.

First Selectman Curtis Rand reminded residents of Salisbury that as spring approaches, bears are coming out of hibernation. Rand urged citizens to carefully manage their garbage, and take in bird feeders and seeds. Rand also reminded everyone there are tips and instructions on the website to minimize interaction with bears, as well as the fact that those caught purposefully feeding bears are subject to a state ordinance and a fine.

The selectmen briefly discussed ongoing ideas on how to incentivise affordable housing in a private way. A report has been given to them on what is possible in regards to the state of Connecticut, and they are looking into a few feasible options with the assistance of the town attorney. “It’s not over, we just have to keep plugging away at it,” Rand said.

The selectmen are hearing bids from contractors to construct a sidewalk from Lincoln City Road to Brook Street. There is $458,000 in state grant money for this effort. “The ends are coming together,” Selectman Christian Williams said. The construction should begin this spring.

Selectman Don Mayland reported that the Water Pollution Control Authority will impose a small rate increase this year.