TOWN MANAGER'S MESSAGE:

As we begin February, we are experiencing low temperatures, heavy snow events, and icy roads. Everyone needs to be careful when driving on our roadways. Keep a safe distance from the car ahead of you and please drive the speed limit. Though you should always do this, it is more important to do this now. State and Town Public Works crews have been busy preparing roads and keeping our streets cleared from snow and ice over the last several weeks. This was not easy with all the snow we received recently in the Winter Storm. Forecasts show some sunshine ahead and then nightly low freezing temperatures which can cause ice to form on the roads that may not easily be visible. Be safe.

At Town Hall, staff are already working on the proposed FY2026-27 Budget. Our Town management team is working through our budget expenses to see where we can save money and to see how we can keep up our current levels of service that everyone has come to expect. We are looking through budget requests and reviewing our capital equipment needs. Our Town has been very frugal in years past and I can say I have been impressed with how many years of service the Town has had from some pieces of equipment and vehicles. We have Fire/EMS vehicles and Public Works vehicles that are nearly 25 years old. It is time for some to be replaced.

As we prepare the budget, we need to replace tractor/mowers to keep our parks and roadways mowed and dump trucks/plows as they reach the end of life . As I said earlier, we need to keep our roads clear and safe in winter, and to do so we will need reliable equipment to do this. These are just a few of the capital items in the Town’s 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. Some of the equipment needs have been in the CIP for several years, but sometimes to lower our budget expenses and to lower the taxes, scheduled equipment purchases get cut and they get pushed out to future years. Sometimes the equipment fails before it is replaced. Town staff will continue to prioritize capital equipment and projects and prepare a balanced operating budget for presentation to Town Council by the end of the month. There will be public hearing on the proposed Town and Board of Education budgets on Thursday March 5^th at 7:00 PM at Coventry High School (Lecture Hall).

Some of our capital equipment needs are very expensive and more than we budget for capital expenses annually. When these needs arise the Town Council will occasionally call for a bond referendum to ask voters for approval to purchase these items and to take debt so the equipment can be paid for over the years while the equipment is in service. Town Council has chosen items to place on a future bond referendum, and will soon consider a resolution authorizing the referendum and setting a date. One item coming forward for consideration will be the replacement of our Quint Fire ladder truck. This truck has a 20-year life span, but is now well past that age. It serves as a regular fire engine, a pumper, and additionally it has a ladder spray mechanism that allows it to go to higher elevations. Though we do not have tall buildings, it does allow us to fight fires over large structures or complexes such as Coventry High School, a plaza or high-density commercial areas like Coventry Village. A new Quint truck would also have greater water storage capacity so it can fight fires longer in areas without fire hydrants or other immediate water sources. Also, we are planning to replace our 2018 Ambulance. It is one of two ambulances we have. Having two allows for a prompt second response when the first unit is on a call or in Harford taking someone to the Hospital. It has been out of service many times this year and we have spent over $40,000 on repairs. Sadly, this has caused delays in providing emergency service. Another item needing replacement which has been placed on the list for the bond referendum is our 18-year-old street sweeper. Though still running, It has seen better days and frequently breaks down. The sweeper removes pollutants from the roads from reaching storm drains and ultimately Coventry Lake, Eagleville Lake and our rivers. We are also looking at replacing older infrastructure in our schools. There are many worn items, but we are looking at some security issues to add to the bond referendum. We have found that the well-made 44-year-old fire alarm systems in our elementary schools are getting harder to fix and the used parts are getting almost impossible to find on eBay. I commend the BOE staff for keeping them going over the last few years. Additionally, we have intercom systems at all our schools that are close to 30 years old, and we have found similar issues with the aged technology with these systems. Some have failed during recent lockdowns. In a day where school security is so important, communication has elevated the need to address this concern by updating our antiquated and worn-out equipment. You will hear more about these much-needed large capital items that will be included in an upcoming bond referendum. The referendum date is set by resolution. Town Council is expected to consider the resolution in one of their upcoming meetings.

I am sure this winter there will be more to say about the budget and the planned bond referendum. This cold February, I encourage everyone to get a good book at Booth and Dimock Library and relax at home by the fire, the stove, or with a warm blanket. I will be inside too staying warm, but working on the computer on our budget. Should you wish to contact me, please email JDrumm@coventry-ct.gov or call the office at 860-742-6324. Frequent updates are also posted to the Town Manager’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CoventryCTTownManager.

Sincerely,

James Drumm

COMING EVENTS:

Sun 2/1: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, Indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Season runs through February 22, 2026 Visit our website for more information.

Tues 2/3-2/24: T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 5:15-6:45 PM, Second Congregational Church, 1746 Boston Turnpike (Rt. 44). A non-profit weight loss support group. See or call 860-944-4945 for info concerning weekly dues (determined by each chapter) and yearly membership fee set by the TOPS organization. Website

Thurs 2/5: Substance Use Hope & Support Group, 6-7 PM, 1153 Main Street (park in side lot). Searching for a compassionate group that truly understands your concern? TriCircle offers FREE support in a group setting without stigma or judgment regarding your loved one's substance use. Facilitated by two professionals, one licensed and with with lived experience. More information. Request meeting link.

Sat 2/7: $10 Stuff-A-Bag Sale, 9 AM - 1 PM, Noah's Closet, 1746 Boston Turnpike. Noah's Closet sells gently-used children's clothing (newborn to size 10), shoes, toys and baby equipment. For more information call Saturday morning, 860-742-1616 or visit the website. Donations of new and like-new kids items are welcomed on Tuesday & Saturdays.

Sun 2/8: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, Indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Season runs through February 22, 2026. Visit our website for more information.

Weds 2/11: Mobile Foodshare, 10-10:30 AM, First Congregational Church @ St. Mary's, 1600 Main Street. An outdoor food distribution service for persons of low income. Text FOODSHARE to 85511 to receive the mobile schedule and cancellations directly on your phone. More info.

Fri 2/13: Famous Baked Fish Dinner, 6 PM, 1171 Main Street. Presented by the First Congregational Church of Coventry & American Legion Post 52. Featuring baked cod, baked potato, coleslaw, Italian bread, dessert and drink. $15 per plate. Take-out available. Info: 860-742-8487 or email firstchurchcoventryct@gmail.com.

Sun 2/15: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, Indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Season runs through February 22, 2026 . Visit our website for more information.

Thurs 2/19: Black History Month Presentation, 7 PM, Second Congregational Church Community House, 1746 Boston Turnpike. Join the Coventry Historical Society for the third in their series of presentations for Black History Month. Free and open to the public. More info.

Sat 2/21: Drive-thru/Take-out Dinner, Second Congregational Church of Coventry, 1746 Boston Turnpike. Pot roast, potatoes, gravy, vegetable, and dessert. $15. Place orders by calling 860-742-1616 or email secondchurch@sbcglobal.net and indicate pick-up time of 5:00 or 5:30 PM. Correct amount of cash or check is required. Drive down from church parking lot to the Community House located across from Coventry Public Market.

Sun 2/22: Coventry Winter Farmers' Market, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, Indoors at Coventry High School, 78 Ripley Hill Road. Season runs through February 22, 2026 (last market of the winter season). Visit our website for more information.

Weds 2/25: Mobile Foodshare, 10-10:30 AM, First Congregational Church @ St. Mary's, 1600 Main Street. An outdoor food distribution service for persons of low income. Text FOODSHARE to 85511 to receive the mobile schedule and cancellations directly on your phone. More info.

Thurs 2/26: Office hours with Town Council Chairwoman Lisa Thomas, 11 AM - 12 PM, Coventry Center, 172 Lake Street, or 6:30-7:30 PM at Booth & Dimock Memorial Library, 1134 Main Street. Come ask a question or share a concern.

NEWS FROM THE HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT:

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)
The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP/CHAP) is open at Community Action Agency sites around the state! Coventry Human Services 860-742-5324 and Coventry Senior Center 860-742-3525 are agency sites serving Coventry residents. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! For more information, eligibility, and to schedule an appointment, please call the Human Services Department or the Senior Center.

YOUTH PROGRAM

Safe@Home Class on February 17^th 10:30 AM – 12 PM

This class is designed to prepare 4^th-6^th grade students to be safe when they are home alone. Students learn how to practice safe habits, how to prevent unsafe situations, and what to do when faced with dangers such as power failures or weather emergencies. Students also learn a system to help them assess and respond to injuries and illnesses. Call Madison Baranoski, Youth Services Coordinator at (860) 742-5324 by February 3^rd to register.

NEWS FROM THE BOOTH & DIMOCK MEMORIAL LIBRARY:

The Booth & Dimock Memorial Library is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10:00-8:00, Friday from 10:00-6:00, and Saturday from 10:00-3:00. The Library offers an extensive collection of reading materials, one-on-one technology assistance, printing, copying, and faxing services, public computers and free wi-fi, reference assistance, and more!

It is that time of year again! Bundle up and join a library tradition! From December 1st through February 28th, Coventry is coming together for the 4th Annual Winter Reading Challenge, with a shared goal of reading 631 books as a town. Every book counts, no matter your age or preferred format. Track your reading, spread the word, and help us reach this milestone together. Let’s celebrate another winter of stories, community, and the joy of reading as we work toward beating last year’s total!

While you’re here checking out some books, be sure to also check out these special programs!

Take Your Child to the Library Day on February 7^th. Celebrate Take Your Child to the Library Day with a creative day at the library! Stop by for a fun crafting activity designed for children and their caregivers to enjoy together. Explore the library, get crafty, and celebrate the joy of reading, learning, and spending time together! Next up is our Fairy Tale Ball with Princess Visit on February 14th at 11:00AM. Celebrate Valentine’s Day by joining us for a very special Fairy Tale Ball at the library! We are thrilled to welcome the beloved ice queen straight from the movie Frozen. Elsa will be visiting to share a delightful morning filled with enchanting stories, sing-along songs, and fun, hands-on crafts. Young royalty are invited to dress up in their favorite fairy tale attire and enjoy an interactive experience with one of our favorite princesses. This program is perfect for families looking to celebrate the day with a little extra sparkle, imagination, and joy. Registration is required. Please visit www.coventrypl.org/events or call the library to register each person, adults and infants included, that will be attending!

Adult Programs

Mystery Book Club – February 6th at 1:30PM – Each month we will read and discuss a mystery book from the Time Magazine’s list of “The 100 Best Mystery and Thriller Books of All Time.” February's book is The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins. Copies of the book are available to check out at the library.

Sunday Matinee Movies – February 15th at 2:00PM – A monthly cinematic event intended to remind participants of the communal experience of watching movies, and introduce the audience to exciting films they may never have seen before! For a list of titles, please visit the library’s website.

Wednesday Night Book Club – February 18th at 6:30PM – This book club meets at 6:30 on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. February's book is The Dutch House by Anne Patchett. Copies of the book are available to check out at the library.

Genealogy Club – February 19th at 11:30AM – Calling all genealogy lovers! Join us to talk research and trade tips. No registration required. Bring research or questions you’d like to share with the group.

Tea Explorers – Pick up on or after February 11th – Members of Tea Explorers receive a new tea to try each month. Each tea comes with background information. Contact the library to register.

Spice Life – Pick up on or after February 25th – Members of Spice Life receive a new spice to try each month. Each spice comes with background information and a recipe to try. Contact the library to register.

Teen Programs

* Note, teen programs are reserved for youth in grades 6-12, or ages 12-17.

Teen Dungeons and Dragons Group A – February 12th and 26th at 4:00PM – Join our party for Teen DnD! A meeting of Teen DnD Group A. You must be on the Group A roster to play in this session. Sign up is required. Space is limited! To check group availability and join a group/waitlist, go to www.coventrypl.org/teendnd

Teens Craft: Diamond Painting Stickers – February 3rd at 4:00PM – Get creative with colorful gems and turn simple stickers into sparkling works of art! Teens will design and decorate diamond painting stickers to take home. All supplies provided.

Teen Cooking Class: Tortilla Pizzas – February 17th at 5:00PM – Learn to cook simple nutritious meals in a hands-on class. Then we eat! This month we will create our own personal tortilla pizza! Please register online at www.coventrypl.org/events

Kawaii Art Club – February 24th at 4:00PM – Love cute, colorful, and creative art? Join us for Kawaii Drawing Club! This fun, relaxed program is perfect for teens who want to learn about or already enjoy drawing in the kawaii style. Work on your own projects or get inspired with prompts and easy tutorials provided by Miss Rachel. Bring your own drawing supplies, or use some of ours. There will be snacks!

Children’s Programs

Play Group – Every Wednesday at 10:30AM – Immerse your child in the enchantment of reading at our Play Group! Enjoy free-play and the chance to socialize with other kids, all while nurturing a lifelong love for books. Join us for a delightful adventure of imagination and fun!

Evening Story Time – February 3rd and 17th at 6:30PM – Join Ms. Rachel for a fun, relaxed story time where we showcase some of our picture books! Enjoy stories together and end the day on a happy, book-filled note.

Little Creators Story Time – February 12th at 10:30AM – Join Miss Christa for a story time program where kids will get to explore stories and art history through process art and crafts!

This month we will be learning about the abstract artist Piet Mondrian, focusing on his contributions to the De Stijl movement through creating our own geometric paintings! Please bring a smock or wear something that can get messy. Best suited for Pre-K-2nd Grade.

Science Thursday – February 19th at 4:00PM – Calling all young scientists! Join us for Science Thursday, an exciting program designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children grades 2-5. Each month, kids will explore cool scientific concepts through interactive, hands-on activities!

Messy Munchkins – February 20th at 11:00AM – Bring your little ones to enjoy some sensory play! Different sensory stations will be available for kids to use and get as messy as they want. Be sure to wear your play clothes!

Saturday Crafts – February 21^st ALL DAY – Drop in anytime for a day of creative fun with Ms. Rachel! Crafts will be available all day, so families can stop by when it works for them and enjoy a relaxed, hands-on activity together. Perfect for all ages and no registration required.

Read to Dogs – February 21st from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM– Cold Noses, Warm Hearts brings a therapy dog for children to read to. This can help with confidence reading aloud!

Please call or email the library to reserve your spot!

Booth & Dimock Memorial Library
1134 Main Street
Coventry, CT 06238
860-742-7606
www.coventrypl.org
bdlibrary@coventry-ct.gov

COVENTRY EARLY CHILDHOOD COLLABORATIVE:

The Coventry Early Childhood Collaborative (CECC) is a Local Governance Partner (LGP) through the Early Start CT program, to support children and families from birth to age five. This is part of a state-wide initiative of the Office of Early Childhood, which focuses on strengthening local collaboration and family engagement.

Early Start CT launched on July 1, 2025, creating a more coordinated early childhood system across Connecticut. Coventry currently receives Early Start CT preschool funding through the Hale Early Education Center (HEEC). As the state continues implementing this new model, our Local Governance and Planning (LGP) process, including the community needs assessment in the spring of 2026, will help determine what future opportunities may look like for local providers (preschool and daycare). Programs interested in potential state-funded opportunities should be aware that NAEYC accreditation is typically an eligibility requirement, and the LGP structure is designed to help programs strengthen quality and explore available supports.

The new LGP approach also expands our community's early childhood focus to include children and families from birth to age three, helping create a more coordinated and responsive system for Coventry.

The LGP is comprised of:

Fiduciary: Coventry Public Schools.
Liaison: A coordinator of LGP efforts, supervising the Parent Ambassador, and supporting Early Start programs.
Parent Ambassador: Engages parents and caregivers in the community and raises awareness of local childcare programs and services.
Community Table: A local group of early childhood stakeholders, including school and town representatives, early education providers, parents/guardians, and community organizations.

CECC helps ensure young children and their families have access to essential resources such as education, support, and community services. We welcome and encourage families to become involved in shaping a shared plan to address the needs of children and families in the community.

Our responsibilities include:

Helping families navigate the early childhood system
Monitoring and assisting providers to support quality improvement, professional development, and accreditation
Conducting a needs assessment to identify gaps and trends
Creating a community plan to implement action steps and solutions to address those needs CECC's mission and vision statements reflect the heart of this important work:
Mission: Support healthy development, early learning, and the well-being of all Coventry children, birth to age 5, through partnerships, aligned resources, and family support.
Vision: A thriving community where every child can grow, learn, and succeed.

If you are interested in learning more about CECC, please visit our website at www.coventryecc.org or email us at coventryctecc@gmail.com.

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Top photo: A winter scene in Coventry. Photo by Laura Stone.

To list your non-profit organization's event in this bulletin, contact Laura Stone by email by the 15th of the prior month.

TOWN MANAGER'S MESSAGE:

UPCOMING TOWN MEETINGS:

HOLIDAYS:

COMING EVENTS:

coventry parks & recreation:

NEWS FROM THE HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT:

NEWS FROM THE BOOTH & DIMOCK MEMORIAL LIBRARY:

COVENTRY EARLY CHILDHOOD COLLABORATIVE: