Riveting testimony at Ledyard Town Council Meeting

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March 9, 2022 ​Ledyard Town Council Meeting Highlights: 
Several residents asked Town Council to designate funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to address the critical need for mental health services for Ledyard children in the wake of the pandemic.

Joanne Kelley, Ledyard BOE member, said “Since the beginning of Covid in March 2020, I have heard from concerned parents, educators and medical professionals about the impact that the pandemic has had on the emotional well-being of our children…The existing resources in this area are not adequate - we must create something that does not exist. There is not one thing on the current proposed list that I think is as important as this or more appropriate for use of these funds.”

Dr. Adrienne Parad, Ledyard parent, said “We have an opportunity to utilize the ARPA funds to make a meaningful positive impact on our community for years to come…We need to delegate these special funds to invest in our future…For our town to continue to thrive, we need to invest in our health and well-being.”

Read more about this issue: 

• Children with psychiatric needs are overwhelming hospital emergency departments in CT (CT Mirror)
• Stories of the year: In midst of pandemic, many children were in a mental health crisis (Courant)
• ‘They’re deeper into crisis:’ Doctors worry about mental health toll of pandemic isolation on children and teens, increased risk of suicide (Courant)

Councilor Mary McGrattan reported that the walkway between the senior center and senior housing is no longer safe.  The Ledyard Rotary will be replacing it! 

Mary also reported from Ledyard Interchurch Emergency Assistance Fund - the board approved grants for 9 Ledyard families last year to help with rent and household necessities. Unite CT and other government programs are ending, while there is an uptick in need for rental assistance. 

Councilor Naomi Rodriguez noted that there will be a celebration of life ceremony honoring Linda Davis on April 2, at Ledyard High School, 12-3 pm. 

Councilor Marshall recognized the work of Gales Ferry Fire Chief Tony Saccone for his advocacy that succeeded in the passage of a new law that protects fire police. Read about it here:

• Fire police celebrate new law, with local roots, that expands first responder protections

 
Much more was discussed! 
Click here to watch the video of the full meeting.

​Send your input, ideas, questions, and thoughts to: BOE@ledyard.net, jhartling@ledyard.net, mayor@ledyardct.org, council@ledyardct.org, and towncouncil@ledyardct.org.