Logo for: Rotary Old Saybrook

OS Rotary Meeting 03/03/21

Pledge: Gary McCauley
Prayer and Four Way Test: Gary McCauley
Happy Bucks:  Many for the nice weather, longer days, and getting closer to Spring. Several for the vaccination process in town, many members have had the second shot, and the Club remains very healthy. The UCONN women’s basketball team continues to win.

President’s Update: Website – the contract has been signed; New member orientation meeting- Marc McDonough has completed this requirement and is one step closer to full membership; Shirts and hats – let Alan know your order and send in money or drop it off to Kathy at the Essex Savings Bank; if you are interested in participating in the Rotary PSA, contact Gary.

Guest Speaker – Carl Fortuna, First Selectman, Old Saybrook

Carl presented a “state of the town” message which highlighted the following topics:

Budget – The 2021-2022 budget was presented via Zoom meeting to 45 townspeople on March 2, 2021. The total budget (education and municipal) will rise by 0.36% over the previous budget. The current mill rate will stay the same or possibly decrease.

COVID-19 – Chief Michael Spera and Scott Martinson, from the Health Department, were recognized for their organization and running of the vaccination site at the Middle School. Thank you for your genuine concern for the safety and well-being of our communities. Saybrook CARES has raised $180,000.00 and has awarded one hundred $1,500.00 grants to people/families economically affected by the virus. For more information, go to Old Saybrook Cares.

WPCA Project – 700 hundred homes, in low lying areas, are in violation of septic system requirements set by the DEEP. This could result in costs to the homeowner as well as the town. Solutions being considered are offsite sewage treatment and/or a regional sewer system.

State Capitol – Issues that Old Saybrook citizens should be aware of. Possible changes to the affordable housing regulations and the proposed Mansion Tax.

Thank you, Carl, for the information update. And thanks for your dedication and hard work to ensure that Old Saybrook remains a town we can all be proud of.

Fundraising:  Shredding Event – Publicity has been sent out. April 17th, OSHS, 9-12, rain or shine.  Rotary District Grant – will know this week if we received the $1,000.00 grant for community outreach.

Club Directory – The new directory will only be on the Club’s updated website. This will include a public interface as well as a members only interface which requires a password.

Next meeting: March 10, 2021.  Zoom at noon