Community Corner

Finance Committee Rejects Move to Install Fire Inspection Fees

Members of the council hope the decision will help spread a message that Meriden is committed to developing a business-friendly atmosphere.

A move this week that would have established fees for regularly mandates business inspections in Meriden has been shot down in the name of creating a “business-friendly” atmosphere.

Members of the City Council Finance Committee this week voted unanimously against a plan to create the fees, along with proposed fees for the issuing of certain licenses, despite efforts from the fire marshal’s office to create income that would have balanced the budget and funded annual training requirements, officials confirmed.

Walt Shamock, vice-chairman of the committee, said he could not support a move that would create increased on small business owners, no matter how small the costs may be. With the city looking to find a way to grow its grand list after struggling along with the economy, he said installing the fees would send the wrong message.

“I had calls from small business owners who objected to the proposal,” he said during a discussion on the matter Tuesday. “They were concerned that its hard enough to make a living without the city imposing additional costs.”

Deputy Fire Marshal John Yacovino had presented the plan to the council members in an effort to get it approved. He received support from Fire Chief Jame Trainor and told the council such fees are not unheard of and are done in at least 20 Connecticut municipalities already.

Yacovino was approached by reporters with the Record-Journal following the meeting, according to a report, but declined further comment.

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