Friday, July 17, 2020
www.southingtoncitizen.com
Volume 17, Number 29
COLUMBUS CONTROVERSY
Leaders divided on statue
Lake Compounce adjusts to changes
By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff
By Aaron Flaum Record-Journal staff
Town leaders are debating the way forward after hearing from hundreds of residents who spoke at a recent public hearing or contacted councilors about a Christopher Columbus statue in front of the John Weichsel Municipal Center.
When planning your next visit to Lake Compounce, you will have to make reservations online so park officials can make sure capacity does not exceed 25 percent. Each visitor has their temperature checked when entering. Those with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher and the group they are with will not be allowed into the park.
The bust of the Italian explorer was bought by local Italian clubs and erected on town land in 2017. Fifty residents who spoke at a public hearing held via video conference Monday were split nearly evenly over whether it should be taken down or remain.
See Columbus, A25
See Compounce, A13
By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff
The Christopher Columbus monument in front of Southington’s John Weichsel Municipal Center. The inscription reads in part: “To the courageous spirit and relentless voyage into the unknown of Christopher Columbus and his fleet on the 525th anniversary of the discovery of America.” Dave Zajac, Record-Journal
ment land. Police began conducting patrols on an ATV given by the department last summer and have chased riders off or ticketed them 15 times.
Water Department officials are considering new all-terrain vehicles for police to use during trespassThat ATV, a 2006 Polaris, ing patrols and rescues. needs dealer service, acTrespassers on motorcording to Lt. Keith Egan. bikes, quads and other ve- Another ATV, a 2019 Can hicles damage trails and dams on Water DepartSee ATVs, A14 R232002
“The people have been through so much that I think we have a responsibility to bring it to an end. We need to have a vote,” Triano said.
The park encourages social distancing by placing six-foot markers for all lines at each attraction and booth. Ride attendants will place proper
Officials consider ATVs for PD patrols
Council chairwoman Victoria Triano, a Republican, said she wants town leaders to make a decision soon. She was impressed with the thoughts and experiences shared Monday night, but said the issue needs to be resolved, not prolonged.
Visitors three years of age and older are required to wear a mask throughout the park, except when at Crocodile Cove. Visitors can take their mask off when they are on a water ride but must wear one when walking between rides.