Concerns over infrastructure and funding took center stage at the Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG) special monthly meeting on September 17, 2025. Local leaders voiced urgent calls for tailored solutions to address the unique challenges faced by smaller communities, particularly regarding water quality and transportation planning.

During the meeting, a member highlighted the inadequacy of a "one size fits all" approach, stressing that towns like New Hartford require different standards to ensure clean drinking water for the future. "Unless you want to be drinking dirty water in 30 or 40 years, we need to set a different standard," they asserted, emphasizing the need for targeted investment in infrastructure.

The discussion also turned to the pressing issue of transportation, with concerns raised about the lack of state support for smaller communities. "The state is thinking big, but they're not backing it up with transportation investment," a member noted, warning that without proper planning, traffic congestion could become a significant problem.

Funding for clean water initiatives was another critical topic. Participants expressed frustration over potential deprioritization of funding sources that support essential services in municipalities. "If we're going to promote housing opportunity and diversity across Connecticut, we should enhance funding mechanisms, not penalize those who rely on it," one member argued.

Looking ahead, the NHCOG is set to host a housing summit on September 29 in Sharon, where these discussions will continue. Local leaders are encouraged to attend and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about infrastructure and community needs.

As the meeting concluded, members were reminded of the importance of staying engaged in these discussions, with one participant urging, "Better start thinking about it because this is gonna be front and center before we know it." The call for action underscores the urgency of addressing these critical issues for the future of smaller communities in Connecticut.