This morning the Public Works crew began their first round of spring clean-up here at Town Hall. The daffodils are blooming, and the grass is beginning to show the first signs of new growth.

This week we held our annual beach opening meeting; where we review our checklist of preparing Sound View and White Sand Beaches for the summer season. Public Works, Police Department, Sound View Commission and the Harbormaster were all represented as we discuss what needs to be done and assigned tasks. As many of you are aware, we had hoped to have a new gazebo at White Sand Beach this year. Estimated costs were higher than expected, so for now we will go with plan B. The Facilities Director, Erik Olsen and Parks and Recreation Director, Don Bugbee have developed a plan for revitalizing the gazebo for the 2025 season. Our goal is to correct safety issues and clean it up as much as possible. I will share more details when they are finalized.

Our Finance Department will be closed on Thursday, April 3^rd from 10AM until the end of the day. Finance Director, Anita Mancini and Assistant to the Finance Director, Tracy Beatty will be attending the Government Finance Officers Association of Connecticut conference in Westbrook.

The Senior Center continues to make progress as we check off items on the punch list. This week there has been training on kitchen appliances and security procedures. Storage items will be returned shortly and we should be informed next week when the new furniture is going to be delivered.

Tomorrow I will be holding my 2^nd Annual Spring into Action meeting with Chairs from our various Authorities, Boards, Commissions and Committees (A/B/C). This meeting allows Katie Balocca and I to update everyone on Town Hall procedures. We also enjoy hearing what the various A/B/C’s have been working on during the past year. This also enables all A/B/C’s to become aware of the various ways they can collaborate.

Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments (RiverCOG) has made us aware of two seasonal positions that are available this summer at RiverCOG. One is an internship to help them develop short-form videos for housing engagement. The second position is to assist in the removal of water chestnuts from the river. These positions would be wonderful opportunities for college students. 

A few reminders of some events that are coming up in April:

• April 1^st - Registration for spring and summer adult and youth Parks and Recreation programs opens at 9AM, on Tuesday. Please contact Assistant Director, Winnie Edmed with any questions. Information and registration can be found on the Parks and Recreation page.
• April 16^th – Martha Marx will host a Community Forum at the Estuary, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, CT. This will be held from 10:00AM – 11:30AM.
• April 26^th – The Old Lyme Town Band will be having a concert at the Lyme-Old Lyme High School. 2025 is a very special year for the Old Lyme Town Band, as they are celebrating their 50^th Anniversary Year.

Enjoy the last weekend in March.