To the Editor:
There seems to be a lack of information on the coming Sewer Referendum in Old Lyme. Below I have presented arguments as to why residents of Old Lyme living outside of the beach communities should support the project.
- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, Old Lyme voters will decide whether to approve an increase in funding for the Sound View Beach Area B Sewer Project.
- Time: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Place: Memorial Town Hall Meeting Room, 52 Lyme Street, Old Lyme
The ballot question asks whether the Town should increase the existing appropriation by $11,028,486 so that the project can move forward with updated construction costs and state-approved plans.
Here is why I suggest supporting this project“
- Sound View is part of our Public beach, and its waters should be protected. Residents of Old Lyme can obtain yearly parking permits to enjoy the beach and the waters of Long Island Sound. State environmental regulators have identified a community pollution problem there and worked with the Town on a sewer solution as the most reliable long-term fix. A sewer system would greatly reduce bacterial and nutrient impacts on Long Island Sound and nearby wells. Tiny lots, shallow groundwater, sandy soils, and coastal flooding make septic systems unsuitable in that area.
- The residents of Soundview are paying the full cost of the project in their area (see referendum). Roughly half of the project cost is expected to be covered through state and federal grants and low-interest loans, including the Clean Water Fund. Passing the referendum allows Old Lyme to lock in this cost-sharing now, instead of risking higher costs or reduced aid in the future. Moreover, Old Lyme is already operating under Consent order by DEEP to fix the pollution problem, and it has deemed sewers to be the only solution. The town can be subject to fines if it does not act, in addition to other costs, from reneging on a Cost Sharing Agreement with the other beach communities and jeopardizing their ability to move forward. This problem is not going away. Let’s fix it now.
Sewers would help revitalize the area especially the main street Hartford avenue . Lenders, buyers, and insurers are paying closer attention to reliable wastewater infrastructure, especially in coastal communities A completed sewer system will improve property values. However, this work may not be affordable for some property owners and I would recommend that at a later time an affordability criteria be determined to help offset the cost on certain properties.
The town should support this project to ensure healthy waters and because it is to the benefit of the whole town that this area stays vibrant.
I hope residents come out to vote.
Michael Riggio
Resident of Old Lyme Shores