Westport RTM March Meeting: $3.1 Million Appropriated for Public Works Projects

March 7th, 2023 Agenda & Results

Westport’s Representative Town Meeting met via Zoom for a session beginning at 7:30 and adjourning at just after 9:40 this evening. Over 3 million dollars were appropriated for three different projects for the Department of Public Works, all of which involved the community’s sewer systems - including a new pump station on Riverside Avenue and adding several streets to the existing sewer & water lines.

Click here to read all meeting materials - including requests and proposals and their respective information.

1. To take such action as the meeting may determine, upon the recommendation of the RTM Rules Committee, to approve an amendment to Section 22-1 of the Code of Ordinances, establishing new and/or reaffirming voting districts following the 2020 Census as provided in Section C5-2 of the Town Charter. First reading. 

No vote needed. First reading completed.

2. To take such action as the meeting may determine, upon the request of the Director of Public Works, to approve an appropriation in the amount of $1,900,000.00 along with bond and note authorization, to the Sewer Reserve Fund Account for the replacement of Pump Station #3 Force Main Sewer Line and Pump Station Upgrades. 

Unanimously approved by all present RTM members.

3. To take such action as the meeting may determine, upon the request of the Director of Public Works, to approve an appropriation of $416,000.00 along with bond and note authorization to the Municipal Improvement Fund Account for additional funding for construction to extend the Sanitary Sewer System to Whitney Street, Roseville Road, Fernwood Road, Plumtree Lane, Pamela Place and Ledgemoor Lane. 

Unanimously approved by all present RTM members.

4. To take such action as the meeting may determine, upon the request of the Director of Public Works, to approve an appropriation of $790,000.00 along with bond and note authorization to the Municipal Improvement Fund Account for additional funding for construction to extend the Sanitary Sewer System to Evergreen Avenue, Evergreen Parkway, Tamarac Road, Lone Pine Lane, Gorham Avenue, Compo Road North and Brookside Drive.

Unanimously approved by all present RTM members.

Morning Weather Report: Cold Day, Seasonal Night for Town Hall Tree Lighting

Today

Sunny, with a high near 42. Wind chill values between 20 and 30. West wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 27. West wind 5 to 9 mph becoming light after midnight. Town Hall Tree Lighting begins at 5 PM with festivities following.

Tomorrow

Sunny, with a high near 47. Calm wind becoming southwest 5 to 7 mph in the morning.

Tomorrow Night

Mostly cloudy, with a temperature falling to near 36 by 10pm, then rising to around 44 during the remainder of the night. Southwest wind 5 to 8 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tom Kiely Named Town of Westport Operations Director

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker announced today that she has appointed Thomas D. Kiely to the position of Operations Director for the Town of Westport effective immediately.   

Mr. Kiely is a graduate of Plymouth State University, Plymouth N.H., where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Management. His professional experience is in law enforcement with the Connecticut State Police, serving 21 years in various roles and supervisory positions including 11 years as a Detective with Major Crimes. During that time, he established positive working relationships with a number of local, state and federal agencies.  

Over the course of his career, Mr. Kiely has received numerous honors and leadership accolades, including Outstanding Service Awards issued by the State Police, United States’ Attorney’s Office District of Connecticut Department of Justice Award and multiple Unit Citation Awards in recognition of his outstanding service and performance for exceptional investigative efforts. 

Mr. Kiely stated, “My entire professional life has been in public service. I am very excited to begin a new career as the Operations Director of this great community. I look forward to meeting new people, accepting new challenges, and collaborating with the team of town employees, business owners, and residents – confident that I bring a fresh perspective and life experience to this important role in town government.”  

First Selectwoman Tooker said, “I welcome Tom in his new role as Operations Director. I know that his experience and skill-set are well suited to this unique position within the Selectwoman’s Office. I am looking forward to a positive working relationship where we are able to accomplish the many goals my administration has set on behalf of all Westporters. I am also excited to introduce him to our community including the residents, business owners, and the employees that make Westport the best place in the region to live, work and play.”

She added, “I want to take this opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation to Town Audit Manager and Senior Accountant Lynn Scully. Her work throughout the time that she served as the Interim Operations Director was exceptional. Her input, advice and guidance as she deftly managed the multiple jobs that we asked her to perform on behalf of the Town were invaluable, and we owe her a debt of gratitude.”

Senior Center Director Heads for Retirement: “I will always call Westport my home away from home”

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker announced today that she has accepted the retirement letter of Susan L. Pfister, Director of the Westport Center for Senior Activities (WCSA), effective January 1, 2023.

Sue joined the Department of Human Services in 1987. She graduated from Sacred Heart University with a BSW, received her MSW at Fordham University, and dedicated her career to supporting Westport senior citizens. The Senior Center had humble beginnings in Westport, first located at the YMCA and Greens Farms School, Longshore Club Park and then Staples High School. Under Sue’s direction, the current WCSA was constructed at 21 Imperial Avenue in 2004, ahead of schedule and under budget. Sue also oversaw the building’s expansion in 2016. The state-of-the-art facility outshines many such centers and serves hundreds of seniors daily, thanks in large part to Sue’s expertise and administration. Sue’s Café at WCSA is aptly named after her since she helped to establish the daily congregate meal program, complete with its own chef. It has received rave reviews from participants. Throughout her 35-year tenure, Sue's creativity, resourcefulness, and inclusive vision have won her well-earned respect and accolades from colleagues and residents alike.

Ms. Pfister stated, “I’m honored to have had the opportunity to spend my entire career with the Town of Westport. Westport truly values and recognizes the important role seniors play in the community. I send heartfelt appreciation and thanks to the various administrations, boards and commissions, town departments and staff, instructors and volunteers, and most importantly, my staff for supporting me throughout my career. I will always call Westport my home away from home.”

First Selectwoman Tooker said, “Westport residents, and in particular our seniors and their families and caregivers, have been blessed with Sue’s presence. Through her due diligence and oversight, the WCSA has become a crown jewel of Westport, offering comprehensive programs that enhance the lives of seniors and create countless opportunities for seniors and volunteers to enjoy friendships and daily enrichment. Sue always has the best interests of those she cared for at the forefront. Her considerate nature and calm demeanor, coupled with a no-nonsense management style has been an enormous asset to this community.”

Tooker continued, “On a personal level, when my mom and dad moved to town, my dad became enamored of the WCSA and all its many activities. It was Sue and her staff who were sincerely welcoming and hands-on in helping with a difficult life transition for him. I know she is the same with all her beloved seniors. Sue took the lead without fanfare – she just did it – and with a smile on her face. Of course, Sue will be sorely missed as the Director of the WCSA. But I also know that she will continue to be in service to others as she enters a new chapter in her life. We wish her only health and happiness in her retirement.”

According to Human Services Director Elaine Daignault, “Sue has a penchant for quick-thinking, organization, and collaboration, playing a critical role in the Town’s emergency response efforts through countless storms and public health emergencies. She and her team at WCSA offered essential respite and support by feeding, housing, and comforting emergency workers and residents during significant Nor’ Easter storm events like Hurricanes Sandy, Irene and Isais, and the COVID19 pandemic.”

“Sue’s energy and dedication are inspirational. Her drive and compassion for others have been a tremendous source of reassurance to me, and those that she has helped along the way,” Daignault continued. “I am very grateful for her camaraderie and friendship, and I wish her a well-deserved retirement where she’ll continue to spread light and hope to others.”

Conservation Director Alicia Mozian to Retire; “her presence in Westport will be sorely missed.”

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker announced today that she has accepted the retirement letter of Conservation Director Alicia Mozian, effective October 1, 2022. 

A Town employee since 1986, Alicia began her career as a Planning Aide in the Planning and Zoning Department.  Subsequently, Alicia was a Conservation Analyst, Zoning Inspector and Planning Assistant. From 2000 to 2001, she was the Acting Conservation Director, becoming the Conservation Director in June, 2001. 

First Selectwoman Tooker said, “The Town of Westport and its residents have been extremely fortunate to be the beneficiaries of Alicia’s expertise and historical knowledge for over 35 years, and her presence in Westport will be sorely missed.”

Ms. Mozian stated, “I am grateful to have served a community that is so engaged and proactive in environmental affairs. Their enthusiasm both challenged and inspired me to do my very best every day to help protect the many natural resources whose care we have been entrusted to protect. I have worked hard to balance the rights of the property owner with the need for environmental protection and I’m proud of my department in achieving this goal. I also want to thank the many volunteers who have supported and continue to support our department’s mission and foster good stewardship practices of not only our wetland and water resources but also the environment in general.”

Ms. Tooker expressed her gratitude to Ms. Mozian, stating, “On behalf of the citizens of Westport, her fellow employees, and her colleagues, I am grateful for Alicia’s longstanding, exemplary and dedicated service. On a personal level, I have always considered her a valuable friend and colleague. I started my service to the Town as a volunteer member of the Conservation Commission and Alicia was the first Town Department Head with whom I interacted. Ever since, through my varied activities in public service, she has been there for me. I am thankful that her positive demeanor, and unprecedented professional knowledge and skill were available to me, and to the many residents in Westport. I wish her all the best as she enters a new and exciting chapter in her life.”

Ms. Tooker continued, “Because of Alicia’s training, professionalism and positive rapport with her direct reports, I am very confident that the Westport Conservation Department will remain in capable hands. To that end, I am pleased to announce that Colin Kelly will be promoted to Director of Conservation upon Alicia’s retirement. Colin has the ability, knowledge, skill and understanding to seamlessly transition and effectively manage the Conservation Department.”  

First Selectwoman Urges Greens Farms Residents to Attend Cell Tower Hearing

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker is notifying the public that on August 9, 2022, the Connecticut Siting Council (CSC) will conduct an evidentiary hearing at 2:00 PM and a public comment hearing at 6:30 PM regarding Tarpon Towers/AT&T’s proposed cell tower at 92 Greens Farms Road in Westport. Details on the virtual hearings are attached and below.

First Selectwoman Tooker stated, “I urge neighbors of Greens Farms Road, and 92 Greens Farms Road in particular, to participate in the CSC hearing on August 9. I continue to have concerns about locating a public utility on residential lots such as 92 Greens Farms Road, and am urging officials to consider alternate sites. The August 9 public hearing will provide an opportunity for neighbors and the Westport community to communicate their opinions and provide additional comment on this issue.”

Note that those wishing to speak at the 6:30 PM hearing must sign up in advance with the CSC; others may provide written comment in advance.  Instructions to do so are included in the Notice and as follows per the Siting Council:

The purpose of the hearing is to receive evidence on the applicants' assertions that the public need for the facility outweighs any adverse environmental effects from the construction, operation, and maintenance of the facility. The 2:00 p.m. evidentiary session will provide the applicant, parties and intervenors an opportunity to cross-examine positions. No public comments will be received during the 2:00 p.m. evidentiary session. The 6:30 p.m. public comment session is reserved for the public to make statements into the record. Public statements are limited to 3 minutes. During the 6:30 p.m. public comment session, the applicants will present an overview of the proposed facility.

Attendees can join by clicking (or entering) the following link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87168810392?pwd=YrnFPblBrSnpNUEtXTUOzTjZpbHFKOT09

from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Meeting ID: 871 6881 0392 and Passcode: 3ktfnw No prior software download is required. For audio-only participation, attendees can join by dialing in at 1(929) 205-6099 (not toll free) and then enter the Meeting ID: 871 6881 0392 Passcode: 406721 from a telephone.

Interested persons may join any session to listen but must sign-up in advance to speak during the 6:30 p.m. public comment session.

To participate in the 6:30 p.m. public comment session by computer, smartphone or tablet, please send an email to siting.council@ct.gov with your name, email address and mailing address by August 8, 2022. To participate in the 6:30 p.m. public comment session by telephone, please leave a voicemail message at 860-827-2935 with your name, telephone number, and mailing address by August 8, 2022. Public comments may also be submitted to the Council by electronic mail or by regular mail.

“Racist Graffiti” Found at Compo Basketball Court; Westport Police Investigating

Press Release

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas made the following statement today regarding racist graffiti that was found on Town property:

Late last evening, Parks & Recreation employees, in the course of their routine duties, discovered racist graffiti on the basketball courts at Compo Beach.

These employees immediately contacted their supervisor and the Westport Police Department.  The Police Department responded, documented the evidence, and opened an investigation, which is ongoing.  

The offensive graffiti was removed and the basketball courts were cleaned and opened for recreational play as of 7:00 AM this morning.

First Selectwoman Tooker stated, “In my short term in office, I have repeatedly talked about ensuring that Westport is a community where everyone feels like they belong. This incident runs completely contrary to that goal and is inexcusable.”

She continued, “I am grateful to the Parks & Recreation Department employees and the Police Department for the swift action they took to address the situation professionally and respectfully.”

Anyone having any information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Police Department at 203-341-6000.

Westport’s Affordable Housing Plan to be Discussed June 27th

Town of Westport Press Release:  

Planning and Zoning Director Mary Young announced today that the Town of Westport’s Affordable Housing Plan 2022-2027 will be discussed at the June 27, 2022 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.  This is the final scheduled public forum for this Plan.  

Five (5) prior meetings were held in different forums to ensure residents had access to and were comfortable congregating and participating at public meetings. These included in-person meetings at Town Hall, in-person meetings at host-site Temple Israel, and remote meetings using Zoom technology during the day and evening hours. Additionally, in May, a survey was posted on the Town’s website and was emailed to residents of Westport and others. The survey is available through June 23, 2022 on the Town’s website here.

Connecticut General Statute §8-30j requires preparation of an Affordable Housing Plan:

“(a) At least once every five years, each municipality shall prepare or amend and adopt an affordable housing plan for the municipality.  Such plan shall specify how the municipality intends to increase the number of affordable housing development in the municipality...”  Effective July 24, 2017

At the June 27, 2022 meeting, public testimony will be received and the Planning and Zoning Commission may potentially vote to adopt the Draft Affordable Housing Plan.  The Plan is available to view on the Town’s website here. 

Comments on the Draft Plan may be emailed to the attention of the Planning and Zoning Commission at PandZ@westportct.gov .  

To Stay Connected and learn more about the plan visit: www.westportct.gov/government/affordable-housing-plan 

Westport Town Offices Closed Monday for Juneteenth

Town of Westport Press Release: 

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker announced today that Town Offices will be CLOSED on Monday, June 20 in recognition of the Juneteenth Holiday. Board of Education Offices will be open.

First Selectwoman Tooker noted, “On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Action, establishing June 19, the date marking the end of slavery in the United States, as a federal holiday. On May 27, 2022, Governor Lamont signed legislation recognizing Juneteenth as a legal state holiday in Connecticut. Although that action will not become effective state-wide until 2023, I believe the recognition and commemoration of this historically significant date in our collective American history is worthy of a holiday for Town of Westport employees starting this year.”

Because June 19 falls on a Sunday, the holiday is recognized on Monday, June 20.

Marsan, Crawford Named as New Deputy Chief, Lieutenant at Fire Department Pinning Ceremony

Contributed photo

Westport Fire Department

Fire Chief Michael Kronick and First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker are pleased to announce the promotions of Nicholas Marsan to the rank of Deputy Chief of Department and Theodore Crawford to the rank of Lieutenant. They, along with Fire Chief Kronick, were sworn in at Town Hall in a small ceremony at 2:00pm today.  The promotions fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Robert Yost on January 1, 2022.  

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker stated, “I extend congratulations and best wishes to Nick Marsan and Ted Crawford on their well-deserved promotions. The hard work, dedication and achievements displayed by these men are a credit to their profession. I have the utmost confidence that, along with Chief Mike Kronick, the Fire Department and the citizens of Westport are in extremely capable hands with this strong leadership team.” 

“I am very proud of Nick and the contributions that he has made to our department and look forward to his continued leadership as we plan and prepare for the future.  His management style, innovation, and communication skills are well regarded at all levels of our department, and I know he will continue to positively impact our fire department and our community in his new leadership role” said Chief Kronick.  

Nicholas Marsan joined the Westport Fire Department as a career firefighter in 2007. Upon graduation from the Connecticut Fire Academy, he was assigned to Platoon 3 where he served as a firefighter for nine years. In 2016, he was promoted to Fire Inspector and was assigned to the Fire Marshal's Office for 12 months before being promoted to Lieutenant. Nick served 5 years as an Engine Company Lieutenant, most of which was spent at Station 4 in Saugatuck.

Nick is a veteran of the US Army and the CT Army National Guard. In 2010 he was deployed overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Nick was the recipient of the Army Commendation Medal for Valor for actions during operations in Afghanistan and here at home has been the recipient of two Westport Rotary Public Protection & Safety Awards, and two-unit citations.

Nick is an EMT, a graduate of the Connecticut Fire Academy Class #41, a nationally certified Fire Service Instructor III and Fire Officer III. He is a state certified Fire Marshal and, prior to his appointment to Deputy Chief, served the communities of Norwalk and Darien as a Fire Inspector. Nick was president of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Association, Local 1081. He is also a State Fire Instructor for the New York Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Nick is a graduate of Fairfield Prep and attended graduate school at Western Connecticut State University, earning a Master’s Degree in History. He also completing his Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Emergency Management at Sacred Heart University.

Deputy Chief Marsan stated, "I am truly honored to be entrusted with the responsibilities and duties of Deputy Chief of the Westport Fire Department. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve the Westport community in this role and am eager to get to work doing so!"

Theodore Crawford joined the Westport Fire Department as a career firefighter in 2011. Upon graduation from the Connecticut Fire Academy, he was assigned to Platoon 2 where he served as a firefighter for ten years.  Since March 2021, he has been assigned to the position of Acting Lieutenant on Platoon 4.  He is an EMT and graduate of the Connecticut Fire Academy, Class #47, as well as President of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation.

Ted is also rescue diver on the Westport Police/ Fire Dive Team and Hazardous Materials Technician on the Fairfield County Hazmat Team. He is the recipient of a Westport Rotary Public Protection & Safety Award, Firefighter Dominic Zeoli Award and two, Unit Citations.

Ted is also a graduate of Clarkson University, earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and holds a Professional Engineering License in the State of Connecticut.

Chief Kronick spoke highly of Lieutenant Crawford stating, “I believe Ted will make an outstanding officer of the department and will be a great asset to our community.”

A formal Pinning Ceremony is being planned this spring (March/April) when we can properly gather and celebrate the department.

Please join us in congratulating Deputy Chief Marsan and Lieutenant Crawford.