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Your Tax Dollars at Work
DOWNTOWN
Bristol continues to move forward in a positive fashion in our plan to develop a vibrant and active Center of Bristol.
Based on feedback from many citizens, the Mayor’s effort is being placed on private development and sustainability.
The BDDC (Bristol Downtown Development corporation) has been charged with fast-tracking development on this key parcel.
Made up of community leaders, they will determine the best combination of uses, and select the most appropriate developer.
Public forums have been used for finding out what the people of Bristol want. This will be shared with developers for a workable plan.
The state will continue to be a partner in this effort,
but ultimately we will be spending less local tax dollars
and planning to receive more tax dollars in return.
As always, public input is desired and welcome. Send it to: mayorsoffice@ci.bristol.ct.us
EDUCATION
Bristol continues to realize and understands that education is a big factor in our growth and in our image.
The City Council and Board of Finance recognize this and again provide a high level of resources to the Board of Education so that they can meet the education needs of our children.
Steps are being taken to evaluate our current grade level structure and the viability of our education infrastructure.
Renovations are complete at Ivy Drive and Mountain View elementary schools. The Board of Education and the City are addressing the need for two new schools to address the changing demographics of the city and best address the overall educational needs.
BRISTOL PUBLIC LIBRARY
The expanded and renovated Bristol Public Library on High Street is a show piece for the City of Bristol.
This major effort, which is a key part of Bristol’s growth and development plan, will allow for many more programs for adults as well as children. Additional parking is now available for patrons.
The expansion has added over 20,000 square feet to the facility and includes meeting rooms and space for expanded collections. In addition, an enhanced computer capability is available for all library users.
Manross Library continues to serve the east side of Bristol, and coordinates the availability of various collections and services with the Main Library for the convenience of all citizens.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
We fully realize the need to concentrate on Bristol’s Economic Development. Jobs, as well as expanding our tax base, are critical to our future.
The southeast Bristol Business Park continues to move forward. Plans are essentially complete, and a marketing effort is underway.
Mayor Ward is working with the Bristol development Authority in this effort, and has included the Chamber of Commerce in its overall efforts.
In addition, the City continues to work to attract individual companies to build and expand. We have an attractive and effective incentive program and encourage all companies to consider making Bristol their home.
PARK REVITALIZATION
Parks have long been a key attraction in and to Bristol. They are a resource of which we are extremely proud.
The ongoing Park Revitalization effort has produced meaningful results. Stocks Playground and Brackett Park are being fully utilized.While Rockwell Park is not yet complete, the results are obvious and have proved to be very well accepted.
Design and renovations are not only being done with people in mind, but also with an eye to easy maintenance and serviceability.
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