Don Lowe First Selectman Column 08/11/25
Much thanks to all who came out to Saturday morning’s Town Meeting. That was a lively discussion on an important topic about the Sherman School renovation project. There were differing opinions on some strategies going forward, but nearly everyone attending that meeting wants success, wants Sherman to have a fully functioning school facility.
A project of this type is naturally provocative, and the concern over the project’s success brings out those differing opinions. Much of the concern was about the project’s owner’s rep and this is something that the Board of Selectmen BOS) in conjunction with the building committee is going to take a realistic look at for the betterment of the project.
Just as a reminder, and related to the above paragraph, there is a referendum on Saturday, August 23 from noon to 8pm in Charter Hall on whether to add an additional 2.5 million dollars to the financing of the Sherman School renovation project. Absentee ballots are available in the Town Clerk’s office from August 12 to August 22 during regular Town Hall hours.
In other matters, the BOS will bring to a Town Meeting a vote on two changes in our taxation ordinances. One is for disabled and elderly tax relief in which we will be asking voters to approve a higher income threshold for qualifying for it –- “higher” meaning a more favorable one to include more taxpayers. The other will be asking voters to approve home and property tax exemptions for veterans who are 100% disabled. The BOS supports both measures and will be asking voters to do the same at a future Town Meeting.
We at Town Hall are sending a heartfelt thanks to the organization, Sherman Cares, for its generosity towards children in Town. This benevolent organization paid for 18 children to attend Summer Camp this summer. Sherman Cares has been a watchful eye and a helpful hand for many who need a little boost, and I am grateful that such good heartedness exists here. If you are in the mood to donate to an organization that directly helps Sherman residents in need, Sherman Cares is a good place to send your dollars.
