In recent days, there have been statements and some misinformation circulating on social media regarding the Nichols Improvement Association (NIA) and the ball field flooding issue. I would like to take this opportunity to provide clear and accurate information about the situation and the steps being taken to address it.

The flooding of the ball field during heavy rains is a relatively recent development. Historically, the parking lot had a smaller footprint, and the grading directed water runoff into a culvert beneath Unity Road.

As use of the ball field increased, changes were made, including expanding the parking lot, adding driveway access, and modifying the field’s grading. While these improvements were made with good intentions, they unintentionally altered drainage patterns. The increased impervious surface led to greater runoff, and the revised grading redirected water away from the culvert and toward neighboring properties at lower elevations.

Under Connecticut’s Natural Flow Rule, a landowner may be held responsible if changes increase the flow of water onto neighboring properties and cause damage. Accordingly, the NIA is taking responsibility for addressing this issue.

To that end, the NIA formed a committee, led by me as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. We have worked closely with town officials and engineers, holding multiple meetings to develop a solution and obtain the necessary approvals and permits from the Town of Trumbull. As part of this process, the Executive Board reviewed three proposals for both engineering and construction services.

This project has been discussed extensively over the past two years at Executive Board and Board of Trustees’ meetings. Both the Executive Board and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the project to correct the ballfield water issue. Both Boards also unanimously approved the engineer and contractor that were selected. This project was also discussed in detail and included in the annual budgets presented and approved by the Association at our last two Annual Meetings. I the Trustee Chairman, presented the full details of this project at the last two Annual Meetings of the Association which are open to all members.

The NIA remains committed to serving the community as a volunteer organization. We understand that concerns may arise, and we encourage anyone with questions to speak directly with board members, attend meetings, or get involved.

Thank you for your continued support.

Barry Unger