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Sustainable CT Community Certification Report

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This is the Sustainable CT Certification Report of East Haddam, a Sustainable CT silver certified applicant.

East Haddam was certified on May 20, 2024 with 645 points. Listed below is information regarding East Haddam’s Sustainable CT efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable CT contact for East Haddam is:

Name:Tanya Bourgoin
Title/Position:Selectperson / Board of Selectman
Phone:860-873-5021

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which East Haddam was approved for in 2024 appears below. Please enjoy this opportunity to view and learn from the information and materials provided.

Notes: Submission content was created by East Haddam, and Sustainable CT makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the submission, beyond that an individual reviewer approved at least some elements of the action for certification. Further, standards for actions below may have changed, and the documentation listed may no longer satisfy requirements for that action. Finally, approved actions here may include some documents and descriptions in support of action elements that were not approved, in addition to elements that were approved. In preparing your own application, please rely only on the action write-ups for the current certification year to guide your submission. Please contact [email protected] with specific questions.

  • 1. Inclusive and Equitable Community Impacts

    1.1 Optimize for Equity — REQUIRED for All Certification Levels

    30 Points

    Approved Information: 1.1 (30 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: "East Haddam Demographic Statistics" provides an overview of the residents living in East Haddam, serving as material for step 1 of the equity tool kit. Appendix B of East Haddam Affordable Housing Plan adds more in depth information about residents in East Haddam and their economic situation. The Equity Narrative describes the 5 steps our Sustainability Team went through in accordance with those described in Optimizing for Equity --- 1.1 a New action credit. Step 1 and 2 of Equity project started in April. Step 3 started in May 2022. Step 4 was planned in June and July and implementation is being planned in August culminating in an event August 27th. Stage 5 discussion occured August 2 2022 1.1.b New Action credit. Step 1 and 2 updated in 2024, Step 3. Survey done in May - August 2022. Step 4. Workshops in April and September 2023,Step 5 discussions were conducted between and after workshops in 2023 and in January and February of 2024. 1.1. c New action credit Step 1, updated in April 2024. Steps 2,3,4 conducted winter and spring of 2023. Step 5 conducted in Summer and Fall 2023 and is ongoing.

    Partners: 1.1 East Haddam Town Clerk Deb Dennette for verifying our mapping process. 1.1 Renae Reese - Our Equity Coach - We met with Renae on zoom numerous times. She attended through zoom one of our formal monthly meetings. And she came for a tour of the town and discussion with Amalia Shaltiel. We also exchanged many emails and she commented on our equity narrative from the equity perspective. 1.1.b Nancy Ballek from Ballek's Garden Center conducted the Workshops and assisted in feedback. 1.1.c The Nature Conservancy gave the Community Resilience Building Workshop. John Olin, Chair of the Climate Resilience Sub-committee in East Haddam Conservation Commission spearheaded the community engagement with assistance from a core group. The Sustainability Team continuously supported expanding the scope of engagement with the community.

    Additional Information: 1.1.a,b Survey results are available at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1rKkPoGVs9GAVg4WJuJwxTPlcdPx99rsUqGgMi_f6VUg/viewanalytics

  • 2. Thriving Local Economies

    2.1 Support Redevelopment of Brownfield Sites

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 2.1.3: Prepare a grant proposal for site assessment or clean-up (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 2.1..3 East Haddam Redevelopment Agency applied and received a grant from the Department of Community Development for the amount of 200,000 for the assessment of Brownfield cleanup of 1 and 7 Main Street East Haddam and 10 adjoining properties. The reason for the application can be found especially on page 4 of the application sec 1 and 2. The need for mitigation is explained on page pg. 7 sections B and C. --- 2.1.3 New Action credit. Grant application was April 13, 2023. Grant received June 2023

    Partners: 2.1.3 The grant is from a program from the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Develooment. Office of Brownfield Remediatiin and Development

    2.3 Inventory and Promote Local Products and Services

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 2.3.1a - 10 points 2.3.2 - 10 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 2.3.1a ,b The link to the directory is in the business Narrative. The designations are under Fun Stuff 2.3.2 highlighted are 2 campaigns. Both are mentioned in the Narrative. the first one is shown in the Bells on Trails Screen shot and the attached 2.3 Worksheet Bells on the Trails. This was run by a private local limited LLC company, supported by Economic Development Commission and Sustainabilty Team promotion on social media. The second campaign is ongoing and is undertaken by Lauren A. Pszczolkowski, Economic Development Administrator of the EHEDC. The related screenshots are from the EDC Newletter and their FB Page and an Event Small Business Friday and Show Your Love in February which are part of this ongoing campaign.

    Partners: Shop Local is a privately owned and funded limited liability company situated in East Haddam which has previously engaged in a holiday and then year-round sign campaign encouraging local shopping by donating advertising and Shop Local Bucks for spending during the Holiday Season. Our role is promoting the partnership as part of our Buy Local Campaign East Haddam Land Trust is a non profit organization that purchases and maintains open recreational space in East Haddam and conducts educational programs for the public on conservation related topics. It works closely with the Conservation Commission and the Land Use Administrator. Our role is promotion and encouraging tourism to buy local. East Haddam Economic Development Commission works to help local businesses thrive through promotion, help with navigating p&z regulations, coordinating with the East Haddam Business Association and supporting town infrastructure to expand opportunities for businesses and residents.

    2.4 Provide Resources and Supports to Local Businesses

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 2.4.2 - 5 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The narrative document includes statement of support from the Municipal Website page of the East Haddam Economic Development and from the EDC minutes for January, February and March of 2022. --- 2.4.2 New Action Credit East Haddam Economic Development Commission in direct staff support in 2022

    Partners: 2.4.2 East Haddam Business Association. The East Haddam Business Association reports to The Economic Development Commission and they plan action together to benefit East Haddams businesses

  • 3. Well-Stewarded Land and Natural Resources

    3.1 Provide Watershed Education

    10 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 3.1.1.a Sponsor or host a program to educate residents and business owners in your community about the value of watersheds (5 points) 3.1.2 Institute a local monitoring program (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.1.1a The Eightmile River newsletter for 2023 which is distributed for free talks about their educational programs for 2023 on pg. 5, Including Family Educational programs in July and River Fest in October 15. Explantion and promotion of the programs can be found on the Eigtmile River organization's website https://www.eightmileriver.org/upcoming-events/ The events were also promoted on social media. http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064828892856 , http://www.instagram.com/eightmile_wildandscenic/n the In the 2024 Eightmile River newsletter pg 10 Pat Young describes and educational program with the East Haddam Middle School Environmental club in the Fall of 2023 in which students learned to check river health by monitoring the aquatic life within it. The Salmon River Watershed Partnership Watershed accomplishments describe their educational outreach at River Fest 2023 and at Machimoodus Spring Fling in 2023, Both happening in East Haddam. 3.1.2 Information Summary can be found in Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring. 3.1.2 In Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Watershed Newletter Pg. 7, Pat Young describes the East Haddam Girl Scouts participating in the 2021 Riffle Bio Assessment. 3.1.2. East Haddam Girl Scouts participation is mentioned on Pg. 5 of the 2021 RBV Report 3.1.2 Riffle Bio Assessment 2021 pg 9-11 mention the waterways assessed Burnham Brook, Eightmile River , Hedge Brook, and Lake Hayward Tributary and Moodus River in East Haddam . 3.1.2 Riffle Bio Assessment 2022 pg. 4 mentions Local Non profits, Eightmile Wild and Scenic Watershed and Salmon River Watershed Partnership. pg. 7,8,9 mention the waterways assessed in 2022 with the dates of assessments and results in East Haddam - Buell Brook, Burnham Brook, Eightmile River, Hedge Brook, Unnamed tributary to Lake Hayward and Muddy Brook.

    Partners: 3.1.1a Eightmile River Wild and Scenic hosted River Fest. See additional information for the structural reltionship of the East Haddam and the Eightmile River. 3.1.2 (Community Based Research - volunteer water quality program) - CT DEEP coordinates an annual statewide volunteer water quality monitoring program called The Stream Riffle Bioassessment by Volunteers Program (RBV). The East Haddam Girl Scouts and the Nathan Hale Ray High School Students participated in the program. 3.1.2 Local organizations that organize volunteers to participate in the program are Salmon River Watershed Partnership and Eightmile River Wild & Scenic Watershed 3.1.2 East Haddam Girl Scouts participated in 2021

    Additional Information: The Eight Mile Wild and Scenic River organization was created through a town vote of the 3 municipalities involved, Salem, East Haddam and Lyme. 3 of the Board members are appointed by the East Haddam Municipality and two more belong to the East Haddam Land Trust. The Land Use administrator is and advisor to the non profit and is in constant contact with Pat Young, Salmon River Watershed Partnership has 2 members of the Board appointed by Jim Ventres, the land use administrator. The partnership also receives financial assistance from the municipality. See last paragraph of Land Use Office Goals: .https://www.easthaddam.org/departments/LandUseOffice/goals-objectives-of-the-land-use-office See pg. 66 in 22-23 East Haddam adopted budget https://www.easthaddam.org/media/Budgets/Fiscal%20Year%202023/Adopted%20Budget/2022-2023_General_Government_and_Capital_Addopted_Budget.pdf

    3.2 Create a Watershed Management Plan

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 3.2.2: Regulation review and alignment with watershed protection goals (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.2. The Eightmile Wild and Scenic River watershed management plan describes the history of Wild and Scenic designation and the part that the different towns, state and national agencies play in the regulation and protection of the Eightmile River.The town meeting of East Haddam on January 23 2006 where this management plan was accepted is on page 108. Pg. 103-106 of this document outline the tools of protection by the different Boards, Commissions and Committees in each town.. The Appendices is a trove of information about the river and is added because it shows the reasons for protecting the watershed and the complexitiy of the management plan.The Eight Mile Wild and Scenic River Watershed Management plan is used by the Eight Mile River organization that is continuously working on fulfilling the management plan in collaboration with the towns of the Watershed, East Haddam, Lyme Salem and now also Colchester. East Haddam has members in Wild and Scenic Coordinating Committee and East Haddam Land Use Administrator is in continuous contact with the organization in coordinating open space purchases and enforcing the special Planning and Zoning rules that were created for the watershed. 3.2.1 a.b, Eight Mile River Outstanding Resource Value Lists and maps are shown in Eightmile Watershed Plan Appendices. Rare Plant and Community Survey and Mussell report is part of an ongoing watershed inventory 3.2.1 b Maps of critical watershed resources are in the Watershed Management plan pg 140,.147,150,152,153 Appendicies pg 9 35 Maps of Beaver study is in progress. enclosed is Beaver Prediction Map in use in study. C. Storm water listing for the whole of East Haddam was conducted by Eightmile River organization in 2010 and are used to plan priority work by the town when possible. Maps of land use and water quality and potential pollutants areas can be seen on pg 140 142-145 3.2.2 a. Tier 1 and Tier 2 Goals of the management plan are described in the Watershed Management plan on Pages 14- 20 of the Executive Summary and then detailed starting on page 45. Tier 1 management tools begins on page 97. b.Commitment letter of East Haddam planning and zoning to updating regulations is on p 119. the special zoning regulations for the Eightmile River Watershed are in the document with the town's commitment explained on the first page. The zoning regulations are those in current use today The watershed special protections are in the revised P&Z regulations of 2021. Jim Ventres, Land Use Administrator has reviewed these regulations in March 2024.

    Partners: 3.2. The Eight Mile River Watershed was declared a wild and scenic river by the US Congress. The regulations were passed by East Haddam, Salem and Lyme in 2006. The Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Watershed Coordinating Committee manages the watershed and coordinates the implementation of the watershed management with the different towns' Conservation Commissions, Opens Space Committees and Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Commissions.

    Additional Information: Eightmile Wild and Scenic and Salmon River Watershed Partnership are working on Watershed management as regional organizations. In the documentation of this action we are raising awareness to the relationship between these wonderful organizations and East Haddam. In that sense this understanding and documentation are inspired by Sustainable CT

    3.3 Engage in Watershed Protection and Restoration

    50 Points

    Approved Information: 3.3.1 Complete a priority project (30 points) 3.3.2: Adopt or revise regulations to help protect your watershed, source water, and or riparian corridors (20 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.3.1 Freshwater Mussels of the Eightmile River Wild & Scenic Watershed was conducted in August 2022 and the Report was made in January 2024. It's relationship to the management plan is explained in the 3.3.1 Narrative. Priority project monitoring stream health in Salmon River was accomplished in summer 2023 as seen in SRWP Accomplishments. The report explains the importance of the water quality monitoring project for creating a baseline for future projects and the appendices include graphs of all the measurements. The Horsley Report of 2010 was a culmination of creating the Salmon River Watershed Partnership and initiated the process of developing recommendations for revising municipal codes and management practices/policies that would be more protective of watershed health and cool-and cold-water stream habitat in particular in the Salmon River Watershed. The updated version of 2015 shows which codes were adapted in East Haddam among the other municipalities. 3.3.2 The watershed management plan describes the history of Wild and Scenic designation and the part that the different towns, state and national agencies play in the regulation and protection of the Eightmile River. The town meeting of East Haddam on January 23 2006 where this management plan was accepted is on page 108. Pg. 103-106 of this document outline the tools of protection by the different Boards, Commissions and Committees in each town.. The Appendices is a trove of information about the river and is added because it shows the reasons for protecting the watershed and the complexitiy of the management plan. The relevant portion of Planning and Zoning regulations of the Town of East Haddam is in the document P&Z regulations for the Eightmile River. --- 3.3.2 Rolling Credit. The original passage of regulations pertaining to the Eightmile River in East Haddam was on November 1 2006. Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Watershed Coordinating Committee continues to monitor and manage the watershed. The watershed special protections are in the revised P&Z regulations of 2021. Jim Ventres, Land Use Administrator has reviewed these regulations in August 2023. The Conservation Commission maintains a liaison with the Eightmile River coordinating committee and in the desire to further protect the watershed East Haddam has purchased the land that holds the source of the Eightmile River in in 2021 in the O'Connell Road Extension. changes in protected land since the issuance of the management plan in 2006 can be seen in the document Eightmile River Watershed preserved land.

    Partners: 3.3.1,2 The Eight Mile River Watershed was declared a wild and scenic river by the US Congress. The regulations were passed by East Haddam, Salem and Lyme in 2006. The Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Watershed Coordinating Committee manages the watershed and coordinates the implementation of the watershed management with the different towns' Conservation Commissions, Opens Space Committees and Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Commissions. 3.3.1 The Salmon River Watershed Partnership was established in 2007 and includes East Haddam. East Haddam has municipal members on the steering committee and supports the SRWP financially. 3.3.1 The Nature Conservancy was the initiator of the SRWP and is represented in the Steering Committee. DEEP is also on the Steering Committee. 3.3.1 Biodrawversity LLC conducted the Mussel Report for EMWSW.

    3.4 Develop an Open Space Plan

    50 Points

    Approved Information: 3.4.1 - 10 points 3.4.2 - 5 points 3.4.3 - 10 points 3.4.4a - 15 points 3.4.4b - 10 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The Open Space Narrative describes the history of open space in East Haddam and the organizations involved in protecting it. It also explains the different sections which we are applying for. 3.4.1 is in the Town Open Space Inventory spreadsheet 3.4.2 Includes the Town Ordinance that was adapted at the Town Meeting of June 25 1998 which explains how the mechanism by which the town prioritizes space on a one by one situation through the Open Space Committee (OSC) and through recommendations from all other Committees and Commissions that are part of the OSC. Included also is the page of the OSC on the East Haddam municipal website https://www.easthaddam.org/open-space-committee. Also included is the priority form used by the committee when they discuss new acquisitions. 3.4.3 is also covered by the open space ordinance. The Open Space Map 3.4.4.a. The aquisitions are shown in East Haddam Open Space purpose and acquisitions. New acquisitions are on page 10. 3.4.4.b. On January 6 2003 the Town approved by referendum a bond authorization of 5 million dollars . This is described in the document Open Space Purpose and Acquisitions drafted by the Town Land Use Administrator Jim Ventres. This bond, which has been supplemented by Generous funds from State, EHLT and other sources listed in the document has almost all been spent. The Open Space Committee requested a new bond of 5 million dollars. The request was approved by the BOS, the BOS and discussed at a Town meeting. It was widely advertised and discussed in the local paper East Haddam News and was approved by referendum on January 30th 2024. --- 3.4.1. New Credit. The Inventory was entered into the required spreadsheet in 2023 3.4.2. Rolling Credit. The open space committee that was created by ordinance June 25 1998 meets regularly on the fourth Monday of every month. They use the ordinance criteria and the priority form in evaluating each property as reiterated by Committee Chair Will Brady. 3.4.3 Rolling Credit. The Open Space Plan was developed as an ordinance voted on by the town in a referendum and listed on June 25 1998. Land Use Administrator Jim Ventres reviewed the ordinance and the aquisitions since it's inception and summarized them in the document East Haddam Open Space purpose and aquisitions in June 2022 3.4.4a Rolling and New Credit. The protections of each parcel of open space is recorded in the information entered in the Inventory Spread sheet. This information was reviewed by Jim Ventres, Land Use Admininstrator in June 2023. The inventory and protections recorded span the whole 20th century and reach to the last year for the property acquired in 2022. 3.4.4a New Credit The O'Connell Road extension was purchased by the town after approval in a referendum in 2021. The Kronberg property was purchased after approved by referendum in January 2024 3.4.4b New Credit, The town voted by referendum to renew a 5 million dollar bond for long term purchasing of open space on January 30th 2024

    Partners: 3.4.1 The inventory includes parcels of the State, the Nature Conservancy, East Haddam Land Trust and the Town of East Haddam. As can be seen from the Inventory some open space tracts are owned by different entities that have partnered with each other. 3.4.2 Many agencies and committees in town are part of the Open Space Committee. They also work in tandem with the East Haddam Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy and the State in the prioritizing process to create continuous corridors of open space. 3.4.3 The Open Space Plan desires the acquisition of 10% of vacant space. This is coordinated with the East Haddam Land Trust, the State and the Nature Conservancy. 3.4.4a The Mulazzi Et al / Hayward Lot - O’Connell Road Ext. – 124.37 acres was purchased with the Town partnering with the State, the Bafflin Foundation, Eightmile Wild and scenic River, Private donation, EHLT . 3.4.4b The Bond authorization has enabled East Haddam to partner with the State and EHLT and the Nature Conservancy to receive grants to cover some to much of the cost of each purchase.

    3.5 Create a Natural Resource and Wildlife Inventory

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 3.5.1 - 10 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Table of Contents reflecting the Natural Wildlife & Resources Inventory shown in document: Action3.5..1.MapInventory.pdf EastHaddam.Action3.5Map.pdf includes maps representing the Town of East Haddam CT --- 3.5.1 New Action Credit. The Natural Resource and wildlife inventory was created by the Sustainability Team of East Haddam in July 2022

    Partners: City of Bristol Facilities Manager David Oakes worked in conjunction with East Haddam Sustainability Member Amalia Shaltiel to provide guidance on how to obtain, compile, format and present the NWR Inventory for SustinableCT requirements and reviewer guidelines.

    Additional Information: Thank you for your time and consideration.

    3.9 Manage Woodlands and Urban Forests

    30 Points

    Approved Information: 3.9.1 - 5 points 3.9.2a - 10 points 3.9.3 - 15 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.9.1 The East Haddam Conservation Commission acts as the Forest Management Committee in town and other organizations as mentioned in the screen shot of their page. It was created by ordinance on 6/15/1972 . The last meeting of the EHCC before submission is April 2 2024. As the minutes are not yet available attached are the minutes from their March 2024 meeting. 3.9.2a Assessment of Tree Coverage Screen Shot and Data from https://clear.uconn.edu/projects/landscape/ct-landcoverviewer/ 3.9.2a Forest cover assessment is the narrative of this subaction coupled with worksheet 1 3.9.3 Best Practices on Ayers preserve - January 28 2023 in EHLT Forest management project where overgrown sick spruces were cleared to create room for growing oak saplings. Invasives were removed and a barrier from deer was created by the removed trees. 3.9.3 Chapal Reserve has an ADA loop that is accessible to wheelchairs, the loop goes to the Eightmile River. This area was a farm and the Conservation Commission has been working on eradicating invasives and planting native plants along the ADA route. This is ongoing since 2020. the minutes of July 6 2021 illustrate the ongoing process of planting and caring for the plantings both pollinators and trees in the accessible loop.

    Partners: 3.9.1 East Haddam Conservation Commission is the entity in town that is responsible for Forest Management and works hand in hand with the Land Trust Administrator Jim Ventres who is also the staff member of the Sustainability Team. 3.9.2 East Haddam Land Trust is a continuous partner with the East Haddam Conservation Commission. 2 of the CC board members are EHLT members and their work is coordinated with the Land Use Administrator Jim Ventres. Their land preservation properties are coordinated with Land Use Administration and Open Space Committee to create continuous protected corridors.

    3.10 Facilitate Invasive Species Education and Management

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 3.10.2 - 15 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.10.2 The Narrative includes description and photos of Eradicating Burning Bush and other invasive at Chapal Reserve in Spring 2022 in preparation of planting of native species. Area was planted with Native species. Orange tags are of Summer Sweet plants. It also documents East Haddam Land Trust program to eradicate invasives in forest management area in Ayers preserve. A third instance is the use of a Harvester by Moodus Reservoir Preservation Group to Harvest Hydrilla from the Moodus Reservoir. 3.10.3.a The Sustainable Team posts a link to DEEP invasive species education material https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Invasive-Species/Invasive-Species as seen from screen shot. https://www.easthaddam.org/SustainabilityTeam . 3.10.3.a East Haddam Zoning regulations dedicates 4 pages to the listing of all invasive species in Connecticut and then lists suggested Native plant list. Pg. 198-204

    Partners: 3.10.2 East Haddam Land Trust and the Conservation Commission and the Sustainability Team work together to fulfill the open space plan of East Haddam. 3.10.2 Moodus Reservoir Preservation Group is working to keep the Reservoir clean of Hydrilla. The Town gave some of the funds to purchase the harvester. 3.10.3a DEEP has a great section on invasive species. We direct residents to their website link. https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Invasive-Species/Invasive-Species

    3.12 Enhance Pollinator Pathways

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 3.12.1: Provide education to residents and local businesses to improve pollinator habitat (5 points) 3.12.2: Create native pollinator gardens, upgrade existing gardens to be pollinator friendly and educate the public about the importance of pollinators to society (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: -The narrative covers both 3.12.1 and 3.12.2 It includes promotion and photo from the Pollinator Gardening workshop and photos from Patrell Reserve Polinator garden and extracts from Conservation Commission (CC ) meetings that show the expansion of the garden along the ADA trail.. It also includes the fb post informing the community about the Pollinator garden in the Elementary school and the brochure from .. created for teach the public about its purpose and expansion. The documents also include some of the more pertinent photos and screenshots referred to in the narrative and the minutes from which extracts were taken for the narrative. 3.12.2 New Action Credit. (Patrell Reserve Pollinator Garden created in 2019, Mapping of Garden and educational material was done in 2021, expansion with new plantings continuous with plans documented through 2024. 3.12.2 Planning of Garden in Elementary School started in Spring 2023 https://www.easthaddam.org/events/26422/

    Partners: 3.12.1 East Haddam Garden Club invited the speaker, The town provided the space for the Event at the Senior Center and for a promotion sign at the Grange along Town Street. 3.12.2 Conservation Commission 3.12.2 Master Gardners of Connecticut. (The garden was mapped by Susan Kinsman as part of her Master Gardener program) 3.12.2 Jacqeline Endorf, initiated and is responsible for the creation of the Polinator Garden in the Elementary School.

    3.13 Promote Dark Skies

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 3.13.3 - 20 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Relevant paragraphs highlighted in Lighting Regulations in East Haddam Planning and Zoning Regulations General purpose of avoiding unnecessary upward Illumination can be found on pg 158 paragraph 26.1.4 The applicability to all new and modified building is found on pg 159 section 26.3 The General requirements of lighting to reduce light pollution can be found on page 160 section 26.5 Bringing non conforming light situations into conformity is addressed on page 163 section 26.8 Prohibited lighting is addressed on pages 163-64 in section 26.99 Acceptable features are described in pages 165-66 section sections 26.13, 26.14 Appendix 1 of the regulations list the month when the regulations were revised and the outdoor lighting regulations added. (pg 181 Sec. 26) --- 3.13.3 (Rolling Credits) Dark skies regulations were added to the planning and zoning regulations in November 2012. Zoning regulations were reviewed and revised by the Planning and Zoning Commission and by James Ventres the Land Use Administrator and Zoning Enforcement Officer, and published on October 1 2021. No updates needed.(policy still current and applied to all new and modified construction)

    Partners: 3.13.3 none

  • 4. Vibrant and Creative Cultural Ecosystems

    4.1 Inventory Tourism and Cultural Assets

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 4.1.2 - 5 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The narrative includes a link to the East Haddam CTvisit.page. --- 4.1.2 New Action CTvisit site updated on 8/5/2022 by Lauren A. Pszczolkowski, Economic Development Administrator of the Economic Development Commission.

    Partners: 4.1.2 CTvisit.com ( East Haddam Economic Development Commission updates the site on a regular basis as part of their support of our local businesses and our tourism.

    Additional Information: The link to the Town of East Haddam’s information on ctvisit.com is https://www.ctvisit.com/listings/town-east-haddam A document with a screen shot of the page is also enclosed

    4.2 Support Arts and Creative Culture

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 4.2.2 Include arts and culture in publicly available municipal marketing (5 Points) 4.2.12 Develop a workshop(s) or professional artist network (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 4.2.2 Enclosed is and Article supporting of the Arts in General in the East Haddam Events Magazine that is delivered to every household and also available at the Municipal building and in various locations for tourists. 4.2.2 Also enclosed is the specific promotional support of the Parks and Recreation Department for the Annual Music on the River summer program mentioned in the article. Parks and Rec hosts the program and does the promotion for the events. 4.2.12 .The photos are documenting the promotion of the East Haddam Art League with permanent Gallery Space in the Municipal Building for action 4.2.12 The meeting notes for April meeting show the connection and ongoing support of the municipality in creating exhibit spaces including reception possibility for the organization in the East Haddam Library 4.2.12 EHAL April 2022 meeting is an example of the networking and the activities of the East Haddam Art League including in municipal spaces. 4.2.2, 4.2.10 4.2.11 The document Promoting the Arts is the narrative for the three subactions and holds links to the library calendar that shows the art programs held in the libraries this summer and the link for the mention of the East Haddam Art League in the Municipal website. --- 4.2.2 (New Action Credit) Article on the Arts appeared in August edition of East Haddam Events Magazine. 4.2.2( New Action Credit) Promotional Support for Music by the River free Concerts, Parks and Rec Department July 11, 18,25 August 1, 8, 15 4.2.10 (New Action Credit) Art program in Library for summer 2022 4.2.12 (Rolling Credit) - Ongoing Support for the East Haddam Art League that celebrated 10 years. Contact on municipal site updated in August 2022 reviewed and updated by Deb Denette Town Clerk 4.2.12 (New Action Credit). Exhibits in Municipal Gallery May 17 2022 and Rathbun Library Gallery space April 8 2022

    Partners: 4.2.2 Music on the River( local non profit that organizes the event, Goodspeed Musicals, non profit for sharing their lawn and Gelston house, restaurant for hosting the musicians. 4.2.10 East Haddam Library system 4.2.12 East Haddam Art League Artist Network

  • 5. Dynamic and Resilient Planning

    5.1 Integrate Sustainability into Plan of Conservation and Development

    40 Points

    Approved Information: 5.1.1 b Integrate sustainability concepts (40 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 5.1.1b (Rolling Credit) The POCD was published in August 2, 2019 by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Land Use Administrator James F. Ventres. In Fall of 2022 all Boards, Commissions and Committees submitted revisions to the POCD to Jim Ventres, the Land Use Administrator. He is in the process of incorporating the revisions into the original document.

    Partners: 5.1.1b (POCD) was the creation of the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Land Use Administrator with Milone & MacBroom, Inc. as consultants. Every Committee, Commission and Board who work with many organizations and gathered information from many organizations and entities in town gave input in the process. Other partners mentioned in the worksheet are DEEP, Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Watershed Stewardship Committee, Shagbark Lumber and Farm Supplies, Uconn Extension center, Ct Farmers’ Bureau, FFA, VoAg,

    5.3 Develop Agriculture-Friendly Practices

    40 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 5.3.1 - 20 points 5.3.2 - 10 points 5.3.5 - 10 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The Narrative explains all the documents. 5.3.1 Place of Agriculture in town vision can be found in first part of Agriculture Commission Ordinance and section 30.1 of EH Ag Regs. Amendment 9.4.10 talks about allowing farm stands as extension of anyone's garden. 5.3.5 Agriculture Aquisition is mentioned in Section 1, Section 2d and Section 4 of Open Space Aquisiton Fund --- 5.3.1 Rolling Credits The Agriculture Commission creation ordinance is from 2010 and is a working commission whose last meeting was 6.6.2020 5.3.1 New Action Credit. EH Ag Regulation Approved 2021 by the P&Z Board and reviewed by Jim Ventres, Town Land Use Administrator this July 2022 5.3.5 Rolling Credit Acquisition fund for open space was created in 1998 with a bond of 5 million dollars. Among many other purchases were 3 farm lands. The Open Space fund was reviewed by James Ventres the Town Land Use Administrator this summer. It is still active and has some money left. Mr. Ventres is planning to ask for a replenishment of the fund in the next budget year.

    Partners: 5.3.1 Promotion of agricultural friendly regulations and practices (None) 5.3.5 Farmland Aquisition Fund, Contributions to the reserve can be accepted from individuals, corporations, associations, partnerships and any other legal entities. Use of money in the fund is voted on by referendum by the residents of the Town.

    Additional Information: I am a little unsure of the changes to 5.3.2. Could you send feedback of what we need to do to comply with the new guideline that would be helpful.

    5.4 Assess Climate Vulnerability

    25 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 5.4.1a - 10 points 5.4.1b - 5 points 5.4.2 - 10 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 5.4.1 a. New Action Credit. The assessment was created by Amalia Shaltiel of the Town Resilience core group( https://www.easthaddam.org/TownResilience) and reviewed by John Olin, chair of the Climate Resilience Subcommittee on the Conservation Commission. The assessment over-layed the Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan with the Survey created for the CRB and a post CRB meeting of participants and stakeholders that took place on July 17, 2024 at the Municipal Building and a subsequent meeting of Town Residents at the Grange on September 17 2024. Minutes and notes of both meetings are enclosed in the documents. The July meeting was recorded and can be viewed at https://youtu.be/TVvIntmx3_o --- 5.4.2 New Action Credit . The CRB workshop occurred on April 25 2023

    Partners: 5.4.2 The Nature Conservancy ran the Community Resilience Building workshop in town. Facilitators were Nature Conservancy members and members of Sustainable CT Participants Included: Town of East Haddam – Office of the First Selectmen Town of East Haddam – Office of the Selectmen Town of East Haddam – Emergency Management Town of East Haddam – Youth and Family Services Town of East Haddam – Land Use Office Town of East Haddam – Department of Public Works Town of East Haddam – Conservation Commission Town of East Haddam – Economic Development Commission Town of East Haddam – Sustainability Committee Town of East Haddam – Board of Finance Town of East Haddam – Resident East Haddam Business Association Gateway Commission Member East Haddam Land Trust Chatham Health District Goodspeed Opera Cold Spring Farm First Congregational Church Two Wrasslin’ Cats Café Ballek’s Garden Center Shagbark Hardware Eight Mile River Committee Salmon River Watershed Partnership Connecticut Institute for Resilience & Climate Adaptation

    5.5 Inventory and Assess Historic Resources

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 5.5.1 Identify multiple priority historic assets within your community (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: There are more than 15 assets described. --- 5.5.1 New Action Credit. Inventory created by Will Brady, Chair of the Historic District Commission in June-August 2022

    Partners: 5.5.1 Local Historic District and Property Commissions in Connecticut. has inventory list and map of historic assets 5.5.1 Information about Gillette Castle from CT.Gov site and from Friends of Gillette Castle 5.5.1 CTlandmarks for information about Amasa Day House and Palmer Warner House. 5.5.1 Sons of American Revolution site for information about Nathan Hale Ray School House 5.5.1 Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism- Designation of Archeological sites as preserves 5.5.1 The Charles R. Hale Collection of Connecticut Cemetery Inscriptions and findagrave.org for information about cemeteries

  • 6. Clean and Diverse Transportation Systems and Choices

    6.4 Support Zero Emission Vehicle Deployment

    10 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 6.4.4 - 10 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: ZEV Assessment Memo - ZEV.Assessment.Memo.EastHaddam.August2022.pdf Planning & Zoning Meeting Minutes - PZC_04-12-22_Minutes.pdf --- 6.4.4 - New Action Credit. Conduct a ZEV charging station assessment (8/17/22)

    Partners: East Haddam Land Land Use East Haddam Board of Education East Haddam Planning & Zoning Commission

    Additional Information: Thank you for your time and consideration.

  • 7. Renewable and Efficient Energy Infrastructure and Operations

    7.1 Benchmark and Track Energy Use

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 7.1.1 - 5 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Data Request from EPA Portfolio Manager Account provided. Confirmation email EPA EnergyStar provided as document: 7.1.1.ConfirmationEmail.8.17.22.pdf New Data Request from EPA Manager Account provided 4/4/2024 New Response Data generated 4/4/2024 Propane and Heating Oil were entered manually. All other Data was entered automatically New Action Credit

    Partners: City of Bristol Public Works Facilities & Energy Manager David Oakes provided assistance and support to input/update fuel oil and propane meters into the existing East Haddam Portfolio Manager Account, which was not being updated due to employee turnover. David Oakes continues to work with Town of East Haddam Operations Manager Donald Angersola and Dr. Amy Thompson of UCONN to close data gaps and missing information to enhance the East Haddam Portfolio Manager Account.

    Additional Information: Thank you for your time and consideration.

    7.9 Participate in and Promote the C-PACE Program

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 7.9.1 (20 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 7.9.1 East Haddam has an agreement with C-PACE since. 2013. Through this program Shagbark Hardware created a solar array in 2017 that supplies all the electricity needed by East Haddam's 3 schools. The screenshot is of the Sustainability Team page with the link to the C-PACE program. This is the Hyperlink to the page: https://www.easthaddam.org/SustainabilityTeam

    Partners: 7.9.1( Participation in C-PACE) The town has signed an official agreement with the Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority now known as the Green Bank to facilitate loan financing of clean energy improvements to commercial properties by utilizing a state or local mechanism to provide security for repayment of the loans.

  • 8. Inclusive Engagement, Communication and Education

    8.1 Hold a Sustainability Event

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 8.1.1 Support and hold a sustainability event (20 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The numbers before the documents and photos refer to the event numbers on the 8.1 worksheet

    Partners: 8.1 Partners are listed on the 8.1 worksheet. They include East Haddam Parks and Recreation Department. East Haddam Land Trust, Eightmile Wild and Scenic River, Friends of Machimoodus Sunrise State Parks, The Gelston House, Goodspeed Organization, East Haddam Economic Development Commission. In all cases the Municipality Supported the Events with promotion and equipment and was either host or had Municipal Committees participating in the events.

    8.4 Support Community Match Fund (CMF) Project and Civic Engagement

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 8.4.1 Complete/support a fully implemented Community Match Fund project (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The photos show the removal of the old rusty container that was over 25 years old. The New container in it's new more prominent location in the transfer station with signage and the people most instrumental in the timely completion of the fundraising. The interior of the new container which includes space for the returnable bottles and cans and the sorting equipement that the scouts use. --- 8.4. New Action Credit. This community fundraising goal was reached on January 12 2023. The new container was set and ready for action on April 15th 2023

    Partners: 8.4 Scout Troop 22 partnered with Sustainable CT CMF program. Maor donors for the fundraising through patronicity were the Municipality of East Haddam through the Nip Fund and the Moodus sportsmen' club.

    8.5 Engage in a Sustainable CT Mentorship with Other Municipalities

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 8.5.1 - 15 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 8.5.1 Worksheet 1 submitted for Actions 3.5, 7.1 and 9.4.1. --- 8.5.1 (New Action Credit) Collaboration occurred during spring and summer of 2022, spearheaded by David Oakes, Public Works Manager and Sustainability Team Leader, Bristol.

    Partners: 8.5.1. City of Bristol

    Additional Information: Thank you for your time and consideration.

  • 9. Strategic Materials Management

    9.3 Recycle Additional Materials

    40 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 9.3.1 Create infrastructure to recycle additional materials that Connecticut law has not designated as mandatory recyclable items (40 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Refer to Recycling additional materials overview and worksheet 9.3 for details of recycling materials programs Refer to transfer station guidelines for information about whatnot shed, --- New Action Credit

    Partners: Transfer Station and local residents who keep the What Not Shed supplied and reuse it's contents. Textiles - Bay State Textiles Mattresses - Bye Bye Mattress Books - Discover Books

    Additional Information: Thank you for your time and consideration.

    9.4 Compost Organic Waste

    20 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 9.4.1 Implement food waste prevention education (5 points) 9.4.2 Implement a program to divert food waste (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 9.4.1 The documentation for our education initiatives are imbedded in the narrative for composting education. On the first page there is a description of what we do and a quote from Sustainability Meeting minutes of April 4th 2023 discussing our first composting workshop and the promotion in the East Haddam News. There is also a link to our Youtube channel. On the second page is some of the materials we distribute at events, a flyer and photos of our first composting workshop. On the third page is the text of our Second Newspaper Article. On the fourth page are a flyer and photos of our second Composting workshop. 9.4.2 The composting report includes the date of the meeting of our First Selectwoman with the head of Chatham Health District. There are two articles from the East Haddam News, one introducing the program and the second expanding the news and asking the community to spread the news and inviting them to Sustainability Team Booth at the Airport Festival on August 27 2022. --- 9.4.1 New Action Credit. Our first promotion material was at the Airport Festival of in August 2022 9.4.2 New Action Credit ( Program started in May 2022) Program initiated by First Selectwoman Irene Haines and the Board of Selectmen. Program Spearheaded by Sustainability Team member Kayle Lopez. Program is continuing with the number of Bins growing.

    Partners: 9.4.1 Ballek's Garden Center. Nancy Ballek, lead the workshop. Both Ballek's Garden Center and The East Haddam Sustainability Team promoted the workshop. The EHST videotaped the workshops and uploaded them to our YouTube Channel and also to our FB site. 9.4.1 River COG . We promoted their initiative of selling home composting kits for half price. 9.4.2. Food scrap anaerobic composting. Blue Earth Composting is in a contractual agreement with the Town of East Haddam to supply the containers and take the food scraps from our voluntary program with drop offs at the transfer station. https://www.blueearthcompost.com/

  • 10. Optimal Health and Wellness Opportunities

    10.4 Develop and Promote Community Growing Spaces

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 10.4.1 Develop and promote inclusive growing spaces (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 10.4.1 Rolling Credit - Creation of community fenced in farming area for gardening and agriculture for private citizens and organizations in 2014. In 2022 community plots were advertised and administrated by Linda J. Zemienieski, Executive Manager of the First Selectman's Office and supervised by James Ventres, Land Use Administrator.

    Partners: 10,4.1 (community growing area) None

    10.7 Improve Outdoor Access for All

    30 Points

    Approved Information: 10.7.2 - 30 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 10.7.2 Our Conservation Commissions continuously works on improvements to our open space as shown in the Improvement narrative document which was vetted by Bernie Gillis in charge of stewardship and Gary Wilson Chair of the Conservation Commission.

    Partners: 10.7.2 Some improvements are done with the East Haddam Land Trust and the Nature Conservancy as noted on the narrative.

  • 11. Healthy, Efficient and Diverse Housing

    11.3 Implement Policy for Sustainable, Diverse Housing Options

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 11.3.2 - 20 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Revised Regulations – 2021 – “As of Right” Accessory Apartments, Adopted after Public Hearing – November 9, 2021 Pg highlighted in 2021 East Haddam Zoning Regulations.doc Definition pg 11, Section 7 General pg 27. Accessory Dwellings Section 10.2.3 pgs. 67-68 2020 Regulation Review Removed minimum size from regulations For Households with unrelated occupants - Definition of Family Pg 17 --- 11.3.2 New Action Credit. Accessory Unit Regulations updated in 2021 by the Planning and Zoning Commission 11.3.3 Rolling Credit, Definition has been in the regulations since the 60s. The zoning regulations were revised by the Planning and Zoning Commission and James Ventres, the Land Use Administrator on Oct 1 2021. No updates needed (policy still in effect and relevant)

    Partners: 11.3.2 No partners

  • 12. Effective, Compassionate Homelessness Prevention

    12.1 Strengthen Municipal Workforce Capacity to Address Homelessness

    5 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 12.1.1.a Designate a municipal employee, elected leader, other individual officially designated by the municipality to serve as the liaison for homeless services in your municipality. (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The document includes the homelessness Liaison link on East Haddam Municipal website and explanation of the connection to the sustainability team, as selectwoman Tanya Bourgoin is also the chair of the Sustainability Team. --- 12.1.a New action credit. Liaison was decided in July. Contact with CAN was initiated in July and a meeting was held on August 16. Information was put on website, August 22, 2022.

    Partners: 12.1.a. MMW CAN. Our Homelessness Liaison and another member of the sustainability team met with MMW CAN Coordinator to understand our connection and how we can improve service to local residents who might become homeless.

    12.3 Collect and Share Homelessness Data

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 12.3.1: Collect and Share Homelessness Data (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The document includes homelessness data for the last 2021-2023 years and screenshots of the source of data from 211.org --- 12.3.1 New Action Credit. Data about homelessness covers the 2020up to August 15 2023

    Partners: 12.3.1 Data for homelessness was found on 211.org. MMW CAN directed us to look for the data on that site.

    Additional Information: There are anecdotal instances of homelessness in the community related through the Youth and Family Services and the head of the Senior Center. These were relayed to 211 and so would be counted in the data we provided. Youth and Family Services is currently initiating a social needs study of East Haddam to get a more precise picture of our own needs.

  • 13. Innovative Strategies and Practices

    13.1 Implement Your Own Sustainability Action

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 13.1.1 (20 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The Narrative document describes the importance of each of the uploaded documents for the CRB process. The Broadband Narrative include hyperlinks to all relevant material. The Survey results are on pg 27-28 of the Broadband Evaluation Committee Recommendation. The photo of Affordable Reliable Internet sign was part of large and small yard signs that were part of the educational campaign for Municipal Broadband. This one is in front of the Town Grange. --- 13.1.1 New Action Credit. The CRB process began on Jan 4th 2023 and the workshop took place on April 25th 2023 13.1.2 New Action Credit. The initiative started in 2021 with the first committee and is continuing with the implementation Committee at present. If the campaign is successful the design of the network will commence in the fall.

    Partners: 13.1 5.4.2 The Nature Conservancy ran the Community Resilience Building workshop in town. Facilitators were Nature Conservancy members and members of Sustainable CT Participants Included: Town of East Haddam – Office of the First Selectmen Town of East Haddam – Office of the Selectmen Town of East Haddam – Emergency Management Town of East Haddam – Youth and Family Services Town of East Haddam – Land Use Office Town of East Haddam – Department of Public Works Town of East Haddam – Conservation Commission Town of East Haddam – Economic Development Commission Town of East Haddam – Sustainability Committee Town of East Haddam – Board of Finance Town of East Haddam – Resident East Haddam Business Association Gateway Commission Member East Haddam Land Trust Chatham Health District Goodspeed Opera Cold Spring Farm First Congregational Church Two Wrasslin’ Cats Café Ballek’s Garden Center Shagbark Hardware Eight Mile River Committee Salmon River Watershed Partnership Connecticut Institute for Resilience & Climate Adaptation For the Municipal Broad Band the town is partnering with Entry Point Networks and Biarri Network Design