The most significant recent developments in Cheshire, Connecticut (06410)

CHESHIRE, CT — Municipal budget decisions, a high-profile gubernatorial campaign visit, a contested housing application, and historic high school athletic achievements highlight recent local developments in Cheshire.

Political & Town Updates

• Governor Ned Lamont Campaign Stop: On June 10, 2026, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont made a campaign appearance in Cheshire. During the event, Lamont focused on addressing high utility costs across the state. His outlined proposals include introducing broader competition into the regional energy market and restructuring the regulatory guidelines of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).

• Approval of $155.5 Million Municipal Budget: The Cheshire Town Council has officially approved a $155.5 million town budget following recent deliberations. The new fiscal plan implements a mill rate increase, raising the property tax rate from 29.7 mills to 31.68 mills. Education remains the largest beneficiary of the budget, with $99.8 million allocated to local public schools. Additional dedicated funding has been preserved for operations at the Cheshire Public Library and the local Community Pool.

Development & Business

• Contested Housing Proposal Heads to Inland Wetlands: A newly revised 74-unit multifamily housing application submitted by 869 W. Main Associates LLC is moving forward to a review by the Inland, Wetlands and Watercourses Commission on June 16, 2026. The developer is seeking a wetlands permit for an 11-acre property situated at the intersection of West Main Street and Mountain Road. A previous iteration of the project was rejected by town officials due to traffic congestion and intersection safety concerns.  

• Squarena Gaming Arena Approved for Bovano Plaza: Town officials approved a special permit for "Squarena," a new 3,000-square-foot interactive gaming franchise location. Slated to open in the Bovano Plaza at 830 South Main Street, the business features high-tech, reservation-based rooms with reactive, lit floor and wall tiles. This facility marks the franchise's first location in the state of Connecticut.

High School Sports

• Rams Softball Secures Class LL Championship Berth: The Cheshire High School varsity softball team advanced to its third consecutive CIAC Class LL state championship game after a grueling 12-inning semifinal victory over Darien. High School ace Jenica Matos delivered a dominant pitching performance, recording 26 strikeouts during the extended game. Senior Ava Pearson drove in the winning run with a walk-off single to seal the victory for the Rams.

Public Notices & Events

• Public Comment Deadline for CTDOT Project: Cheshire residents have until Thursday, June 11, 2026, to submit formal public questions or feedback regarding a Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) drainage infrastructure project (Project No. 0025-0149).

• Monthly Bulk Recycling Event: The town will host its free monthly electronics and mattress recycling day on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The collection will take place at the old municipal transfer station located at 1304 Waterbury Road. Town residents may also drop off grass clippings and yard brush during these hours.