NORWICH – While the budget was the primary topic of discussion at Tuesday night’s Common Council meeting, several events coincided with the city’s public hearing.

The meeting began with the common council passing a resolution to promote Police Officer Patrick Blenis to the office of sergeant. Police officers and friends and family of Blenis filled the room to watch as Police Chief Joseph Angelino swore in the newly appointed sergeant and presented him with his new badge. “I’m very proud of the police department and Sergeant Blenis has been a great addition to the department,” said Mayor Joseph Maiurano.

Following the promotion, Maiurano took a few moments to recognize two council members who are leaving the office. “Four years ago we had elections and had three new aldermen and a new mayor. Through years of being a public servant you find sometimes it’s great and sometimes it’s trying. Four years ago we had projected a 40 percent tax increase and 20 percent increases for the next four to five years. Through the hard work of these individuals, we’ve moved forward on a lot in four years,” Maiurano said.