From the Desk of the First Selectman

Don Lowe First Selectman Column 07/07/25

Whether you have children still in school or not, one project in Sherman that is on nearly everyone’s mind is the Sherman School renovation project. We had been waiting for some pertinent information to become clear before I wrote about it. Last week we held a joint meeting broadcast via Zoom between the building committee, the Board of Education, and the Board of Selectmen to discuss some disappointing news about how the bids came in. Although the bidding process is not over as some re-bidding is in play, right now, due to economic uncertainty which is causing fluctuation in current and future market conditions, the bids could be nearly eight million dollars higher than expected.

Everyone involved is working together to evaluate options to bring the cost of this project back to the budget we had expected. Apparently, this is occurring on other projects across the state and isn’t particular to Sherman alone. The root causes appear to point to trepidation in a wide spectrum of markets across the country and even worldwide. We want to thank everyone involved – professionals along with committee members – for their hard work in dealing with this and for keeping this project moving forward, all with the goal of not costing the taxpayers more than expected. Regarding the work itself, the larger mobilization is scheduled for later in July as presently most of the work going on is preparatory and is inside the school walls.

Last Saturday, in the Old Store, local historian and author John Cilio held a book signing event for his new book, Lake Mauweehoo History, that describes through John’s writing and choice of photos the origin and history of this little lake and the community around it. Lake Mauweehoo has become vitally important to life here in Sherman and, as you will learn reading John’s book, is a culture all to itself. When you get a chance, stop by the Old Store and pick up a copy. And when you’re there, shop around. You never know what you might find in that precious business.

It is with deepest regret to write that Sherman resident, Matthew Hatcher, teenage son of Marie and Michael Hatcher passed away this weekend. Matthew was born with a Congenital Heart Defect yet persisted bravely as he went through numerous medical procedures. His beautiful smile and effervescent personality will forever be remembered. Through Matthew’s condition, Marie turned a difficult situation into a tremendous positive by founding Matthew’s Hearts of Hope, an organization dedicated to bringing assistance and awareness to Congenital Heart Defects in young children. The Hatchers are an amazing family. Please keep them in your prayers.