The Town of Plainville covers an area of 9.8 square miles and is located in Hartford County, midway between New Britain and Bristol, and 14 miles southwest of Hartford. Plainville is bordered by Bristol to the west, Farmington to the north, New Britain to the east, and Southington to the south. The Town’s business base is diverse. Major industries include electrical products, spring manufacturing, tool making, metal stamping, heavy construction and stone quarries. Plainville has three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. The Board of Education oversees the school system which currently has an enrollment of over 2,600 students. Plainville’s Senior Center is one of the finest centers offering programs from computer learning to exercising, serving lunches as well as delivering meals on wheels. Plainville’s Fire Company is a volunteer department made up of 85 members. The Company is responsible for the Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival held each year in August. Thousands come from around the state to enjoy the festivities and fireworks display. Trumbull Park boasts a Little League Field, all Purpose Field, and Baseball Field. Norton Park has a Girls’ Softball Diamond, soccer field and skate park. Norton Park is also the location of the Elizabeth A. Berner Pool which is open mid-June to the end of August for residents and their guests to enjoy. This family aquatic center offers two water slides, a raindrop fountain and a zero depth entry tot pool. Paderewski Park is the home of the new Splash Pad and the Conservation Commission's annual fishing derby. Tomasso Nature Park offers approximately four acres of wetlands, observation areas, knolls, trails, and bridges. It is home to nearly 600 painted turtles and other wildlife. The Town of Plainville has had a town manager/town council form of government since 1959. The Town Council is made up of seven members which serve two-year terms.