News Flash

FY 2022 Budget 

During the 4/5/21 Town Council meeting, Town Manager Christopher Bromson presented the Fiscal Year 2022 proposed budget. The proposed budget includes a 0% tax increase and no increase in the sewer quarterly charge during the next fiscal year (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022). In our proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), the Town has proposed projects that enhance the quality of life for our residents. Highlights of some new investments include:  

• Construction of Higgins Park 1/3-mile walking path, playscape and basketball court (behind Town Hall)
• Splash pad at Parkman School
• Transfer Station Improvements
• Library Community Room Enhancement
• New field at Brainerd Park
• Upgrades and new field lighting at Powder Hollow Park
• 2 electric vehicles and charging station
• Additional 2 EMTs and remount of ambulance funded
• 10 police cruisers

Again, all these projects are proposed to be done without raising taxes on our hardworking residents. 

The Public Hearing for the FY 2022 budget will be held virtually on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at 5 PM. Electors or taxpayers may submit written testimony, including name and address, to PHBudgetComments@enfield.org by 5 PM on Monday, April 12, 2021.  We would like to highlight that the Town pension continues to be funded at 95% and our Police Pension is funded at 92%. Our Standard & Poor’s rating is AA Stable and our fund balance is strong. The budget presentation is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvHiYvnOPqY&feature=youtu.be

Annex COVID-19 Clinic

The Town has partnered with Johnson Memorial Hospital, a member of Trinity Health of New England, to open a mass COVID-19 vaccination clinic in the gymnasium of the Enfield Annex, the former Enrico Fermi High School. The clinic is open each Monday from 12:45 p.m. until 3:15 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The clinic is by appointment only. No walk-ins are accepted. Please use MyCare to request an appointment at the following link: https://mycare.stfranciscare.org/mycare/. 

Police Department

With the return of the warmer weather, an increase in motorcycle traffic is certain. Motorists are reminded to pay extra attention and exercise due care and caution to ensure the safety of our town’s roadways.

Members of the Enfield Police Department Canine Unit have been selected to participate in an upcoming segment of “Canine Duo” on WFSB-TV Channel 3. Filming for this piece will take place this week, with the piece airing on one of the upcoming two Sundays. We believe our canine program to be amongst the best in the state and in the nation!

Social Services

Transportation Services

Due to an increase in rider use and vacancies in driver positions, Dial-a-Ride has changed some of its procedures. Below are the new guidelines starting April 19^th  2021:

1. Mondays and Fridays will be doctor appointments only.
2. Any type of shopping will be with the 8 AM, 9 AM or 10 AM bus, no later. Return times will be 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM.  No late shopping appointments. Please call when ready and Transportation will pick you up before the actual return times.
3. Please try and make doctor appointments no later than 2 PM. As always, doctor appointments are priority! 

Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center is rolling out a new way for families to complete the Ages and Stages Questionnaires for children ages 2 months-five years. The Sparkler app is available in English and Spanish and can be downloaded onto a phone or device. Families can confidentially complete their ASQ screenings through this app which will be reviewed by the FRC, as well as receive ideas for activities to do with children and receive tips and advice. To receive more information, please contact Erin Grimes at egrimes@enfield.org or call 860-253-6580. 

Senior Center 

On April 5th, the Senior Center opened for programming on a limited basis. The staff were happy to see so many smiling faces even under their masks.  Some were well known and some brand new to the center.  Everyone was eager to get to their classes and it was exciting to hear laughter and friends catching up.  We even welcomed the Zumba music in the Great Room. The Center is currently open Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM.  Anyone wishing to participate must be pre-registered.   Registration forms can be found on the Senior Center website or on the cart outside the front door. 

Below are just some of the programs we are offering at The Senior Center.  

• Virtual Bingo - Thursday, April 15, 2 PM. Sponsored by Home Helpers and The Ivy,   email nmatson@homehelpershomecare.com to register.
• Virtual Bingo – Friday, April 30 at 1:30 PM.  Prizes sponsored by Stonebrook Village.

Walking Trail: 

We are very blessed to have our very own outdoor walking trail.  Now that the warm weather is upon us, we invite you to try out the trail.   Bring along a friend, socialize and breathe in the fresh air. 

TED Talks:

How to Get Better at the Things You Care About – Thursday, April 22 at 1:30pm.  This program is free, however, please email SeniorCenter@enfield.org to register.

Medical Loan Equipment: 

Residents have been very generous over the winter months donating their medical equipment.  We have an abundance of equipment ready to loan out for free.  Please call or email the Senior Center for more information.

Movies:

Wild Mountain Thyme – April 23, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM. $2 will be collected at the door. 

Computer Classes:

Drop in Tech Help – Wednesday, April 14, 1:30 PM

Computer 101 – Wednesday, April 21, 1:30 PM

Crafts

• Card Making – Friday, April 16 at 9:30 AM
• Spring Wreath – Tuesday, April 20, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
• Paint Party – Monday, April 26, 1 PM – 3 PM

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook or visit our webpage at www.enfield-ct.gov/seniors.  

Recreation

Seasonal Staff Openings: We are currently accepting job applications for Tons-O-Fun Summer Camp Counselors through Friday, April 16, at 5 PM.  Positions are open to applicants 16 years of age and up.  Apply online at www.enfield-ct.gov/hr.

The Recreation Division has a variety of virtual and Take it, Make it programs this Spring. The February/March newsletter is now online at www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation. Currently, in-person programming has been suspended due to increased COVID numbers. Upcoming programs include:

The Cooped-Up Crafts Cart is out and about this April and May!  Stop by, say hi and pick up a FREE activity or two for your child!  Upcoming dates include: 

• Saturday, April 17th: 10 - 11 AM at the Enfield Annex, 124 North Maple Street
• Wednesday, April 21st: 9:30 - 10:30 AM at the Enfield Public Library, 104 Middle Road
• Saturday, May 1st: 10:30 - 11:30 AM at the Enfield Annex, 124 North Maple Street
• Wednesday, May 19th: 9:30 - 10:30 AM at the Rotary Playground, 104 Middle Road 

Take it, Make it Rock Painting Kits: Contact the Enfield Recreation Division to reserve a “Kindness Rocks!” rock painting craft kit.  Open to Enfield residents, free craft kits are available while supplies last, limit one per household. 

JUST ADDED! “Virtual” Youth Fishing Derby:  This program is open to Enfield youth ages 15 years and younger. To participate, catch a fish in any body of water where fishing is permitted, submit a photo of the participant and their catch via email to bfairman@enfield.org and include the child’s full name, age, phone number and home address. Only one entry will be accepted per participant. All entries will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a fun prize! The Derby will run from April 9 – May 17, 2021 and all entries must be submitted by 11:59 PM on 5/17/21.

Babysitter Safety Course: This entry level course is intended to teach age appropriate skills necessary to care for children of all ages using team babysitting, mother’s helper and individual babysitting concepts. This course focuses on safety with an emphasis on prevention. Other topics include handwashing, diapering, bottle feeding, personal safety, interview skills and COVID-19 related topics. Basic first aid, including adult and child CPR (requires passing written and skills testing to receive the 2-year certification), will be covered. Each participant will receive a booklet, handouts and Babysitter Safety Certificate. Held Wednesday, April 14 (Spring break, no school), 9 AM – 2 PM at the Enfield Annex. Spaces are limited and open to Enfield residents only. Pre-registration (beginning March 12th) and full payment are required to secure a spot.

Camp TONS-O-FUN Summer Care: Summer Care is a great opportunity to meet new friends, develop respect, build self-esteem and participate in activities in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere. Activities include sports and group games, theme weeks, arts and crafts, free play and more! The program is offered for Enfield youth entering grades 1-9 in September 2021 and is held at the Enfield Annex. Offered in one-week sessions from Monday, June 28 through Friday, August 13, 2021, 8 AM – 4 PM. For more information regarding Summer Care, including fees, visit our website at www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation or contact the Recreation Office at 860-253-6420. Spaces are limited and registration opened March 26. This program is for Enfield residents only.

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification Course: Enfield Recreation will be hosting a lifeguard course for those 16 years or older by September 30, 2021. This blended course will cover American Red Cross Lifeguarding, first aid and CPR. Those interested in working as a Lifeguard for Enfield Recreation can become certified at a significantly reduced rate. A pre-employment screening is due by April 12 at 4 PM. The class will be held on April 30, May 1 & 2. See website for complete information on the program.

Preschool Martial Arts Clinic: Has your little one shown an interest in martial arts but not sure if it is for them? If so, our FREE, two-day clinic is for you! In conjunction with Integrity Martial Arts of Enfield, participants will explore the world of martial arts. This clinic is especially designed for preschoolers and kindergartners. Participants will be introduced to the basics of martial arts and character development topics. Participants must wear a face mask, comfortable clothing and sneakers and bring a water bottle. One parent/guardian is REQUIRED to attend and participate in the program with each participant. Held Saturdays, May 1 & 8, 9– 9:30 AM at Green Manor Park, Taylor Road. Spaces are limited and open to Enfield residents only.  There is no fee for this program, however, pre-registration is required and begins April 1.                

Youth Martial Arts Clinic: Has your child shown an interest in martial arts but not sure if it is for them? If so, our FREE, two-day clinic is for you! In conjunction with Integrity Martial Arts of Enfield, participants will explore the world of martial arts. Participants will be introduced to the basics of martial arts and character development topics. Participants must wear a face mask, comfortable clothing and sneakers and bring a water bottle. A parent/guardian is required to stay on site for the entirety of the program. Held Saturdays, May 1 & 8, 9:30 – 10 AM at Green Manor Park, Taylor Road.  Spaces are limited and open to Enfield residents only.  There is no fee for this program, however, pre-registration is required and begins April 1.

Spring Adult Yoga: Whether you have been practicing yoga for years or this is your first time, this class is for you! Release stress and improve personal well-being this spring. Yoga will bring balance, breath awareness, stamina and flexibility to the body and mind. Students will be able to work at their own level, modifying poses as needed. Please note: Participants must wear a face mask and bring a yoga mat and a water bottle to class. Held Tuesdays, April 27 - June 1, 6:15 – 7:30 PM in the Enfield Annex Cafeteria.  Spaces are limited and open to Enfield residents 18 and older.  Pre-registration begins on April 1 and full payment ($30.00) is required to secure a spot

Women’s Self Defense Class: Self-defense is a real and necessary skill. Did you know that people who are confident in crisis seldom need to defend themselves? Their belief in themselves turns predators away. Join Jonathan Metcalf at Integrity Martial Arts to learn simple strategies to minimize risk, tactics to get you to safety quickly, the psychology behind most violence and how to avert it and the fundamentals of striking and escaping. This is a great course for students who are or will be attending college. Please note that mature topics will be covered in this class. Participants must wear a face mask and comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle. Held Thursday, April 15, 2021, 6– 9 PM at Integrity Martial Arts Studio, 585 Hazard Ave.  Spaces are limited and open to Enfield residents only.  There is no fee for this program, however, pre-registration is required and begins April 1.

WE’VE MOVED!  Enfield Recreation is now located at the Enfield Annex, 124 North Maple Street (access via door 1).

Library    

New Resource: America’s News is our newest online resource.  Stay informed on local and national topics, people and events in areas such as business, health, education, jobs and careers, political and social issues and more. Features a wide variety of credible, vetted news sources spanning the U.S., including Hartford Courant, Connecticut Post, New Haven Register and Journal Inquirer. There are also both major and small newspapers from around the country.  It is available remotely 24/7 on any device.

Book Discussions  

4/14 Virtual Book Discussion The Other Einstein

4/19 Virtual Book Discussion The Fortunes

4/29 Virtual Book Discussion 88 Names

These titles are available in eBook format. When possible, we will also have physical copies that can be picked up at the Central Library circulation desk. 

Children’s Programs

Dance Party! Are you ready to Hokey Pokey? Join us on the front lawn of the library on Tuesday, April 13, 11 AM-12 PM for a “Dance Party” using our favorite songs and dances from storytime. (Rain date will be Thursday, April 15th at 11 AM) Please bring a blanket(s) for your group to dance on. Masks must be worn when not on your blanket.

Blanket Bingo - Bring your own blanket on Wednesday, April 14, 1:30 PM-2:30 PM and play bingo on the front lawn of the library (rain date April 16th) and win prizes. Masks are required when not on your blanket and we ask that blankets be placed at least 6 ft from others. This drop-in program is for kids ages 5 and up and must be accompanied by an adult.

Take & Make Craft – It’s a “Take & Make” Crafty Wednesday at the Enfield Public Library on April 21, from 9:30-10:30 and 6:30-7:30. Use the supplies provided to make a spring cloud or painted windchime. Ages 3-7 will create a rainbow cloud and ages 8-12 a painted windchime. Kits can be picked up curbside. There is no need to register in advance. Supplies are limited. This craft is sponsored by the Enfield Culture and Arts Commission.

Join the Library for the Online Rhyme Time program for children ages birth to 24 months via Facebook on Mondays at 10:30 AM. Virtual Storytime for ages 2-4 will be on Facebook on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM and Storytime for ages 4-5 will be on Facebook on Thursdays at 9:30 AM. 

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The Town Hall continues to be open by appointment only. If you need to conduct your business in person, please call the department you wish to schedule your visit in advance. Please continue to check our website for updates. For alerts from the Town of Enfield, please go to https://enfield-ct.gov/List.aspx to sign up for Notify Me and select Public Notices. Follow Enfield Town Manager on Facebook and on Twitter.