The 1990s and 2000s were decades of world-wide change and innovation. Computer technology changed how we communicate and do business, the world’s population reached six billion in 1999, smallpox was eradicated, life expectancy increased worldwide, the space shuttle amazed us and made us mourn, environmental concerns increased, four presidents—George H. Bush, William Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama occupied the White House, and Janet Reno became the first female Attorney General of the United States; just a smattering of the world events of those decades.
For Granby residents, those changes dramatically influenced their daily lives. Closer to home new housing development and multiple unit housing continued to push the envelope for municipal services and education budgets. To make it more manageable, a new process for yearly budget guidelines was formulated. A growing elementary student population drove the aggressive remodeling of the Kearn’s School. A growing need for room at the high school brought two architectural concepts for new buildings and renovations before the Board of Education. Neither was the ultimate answer but interesting to see. The Routes 189/Rt 20 intersection realignment, a young “hometown” girl who’s now a sports icon, improvements on the Center Green and center sidewalks were all headlined in Drummers published between 1990 and 2009. 2010 through 2020 next month.
June 1990: Kearns School expansion approved. January 1990: Golf course community approved for North Granby. June 1991: Rebecca Lobo was making headlines as a high schooler. June 1990: Plans began for high school renovation. February 1994: High school renovation plans advance. June 1994: Fast food regulations are discussed. June 2004: Drummer Fund contributes to the community. July/August 2006: Painted Horses came to town. June 2007: Fund raising to start a high school football program. June 2009: Adjutant Jim Hall of the American Legion is featured. June 2009: That year, Memorial Day was observed on May 25 with a parade. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has canceled the parade on May 25, although Granby will still honor and memorialize the sacrifice of America’s soldiers.