First Selectman: Beach Passes Begin Tomorrow, Eversource in Hot Water over Poor Storm Isaias Response

Press Release

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has published interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated individuals.  Included in the guidance is that fully vaccinated individuals may forego the use of a mask when outdoors, or when in the company of other fully vaccinated individuals. Among other provisions, the use of a mask, and social distancing is still required when in a crowded outdoor setting or when indoors with others who are not vaccinated. The full guidance can be found here.

Last week, we shared Governor Lamont’s announcement to ease the COVID restrictions in the State of CT.  Effective tomorrow, May 1, all restaurants will be allowed to remain open until a 12:00 AM closing time.  Beverage-only service outdoors will be permissible and the 8-person limit on outdoor dining will be lifted.

As a reminder, as of May 1, vehicle parking emblems will be required on all vehicles to enter Compo, Soundview and Old Mill beach parking lots and on May 29, 2021 at Burying Hill Beach. All vehicle parking emblem purchases must be made online at www.westportrecreation.com. Daily parking for non-residents will be allowed this summer at Compo Beach and Burying Hill Beach. Visit www.westportrecreation.com for daily parking rates.

Effective Wednesday, May 19, all remaining State gathering restrictions will be lifted, except, masks will continue to be required in all indoor public settings where social distancing is not possible. We encourage those who are fully vaccinated to follow the CDC guidance for mask wearing and social distancing in crowded outdoor settings.  The State revisions are contingent upon a low incidence of COVID-19 and the Connecticut population continuing to get vaccinated. Additional clarification is still forthcoming.

In our last several messages, we outlined the various town entities and departments that are making efforts to return to normalcy by planning outdoor events and activities this spring and summer.  We continue to encourage and support outdoor activities that can be conducted with caution and sensitivity for all.  As we reintroduce these types of gatherings, our priority is to maintain the health and safety of residents and employees. 

Plans continue for holding the Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 31, 2021. Organizers will be asking parade participants and observers to create a socially distanced and safe parade by taking into consideration the current conditions and advice from the CDC relative to outdoor gatherings. With hopes for good weather, we are looking forward to this wonderful Westport tradition that honors veterans and service members.  We encourage all who attend to wear a mask in crowded areas and to social distance. 

We continue to urge everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible.  Walkup clinics that do not require an appointment can be found here.

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the Westport Weston Health District website.

PURA Final Decision

On Wednesday, the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) released its Final Decision on its investigation into Electric Distribution companies’ Preparation for and Response to Tropical Storm Isaias.  As it relates to Eversource, PURA concluded that:

“Eversource did not satisfy the performance standards for managing its municipal liaison program, executing its Make Safe responsibilities, communicating critical information to its customers, or meeting its obligation to secure adequate resources in a timely manner.” 

As a result, PURA will consider fines and penalties against Eversource and will require a reduction in ratemaking return on equity for Eversource.

I provided lengthy testimony related to PURA’s investigation on behalf of the many residents who reached out to Town Hall and Town officials in search of support and assistance during the aftermath of Storm Isaias.  I am pleased that PURA heard the evidence and is taking significant action to ensure customers receive better service from utility providers during emergency situations.  PURA’s full final decision can be found here.  For more information on the Town of Westport’s response and follow up on Storm Isaias, please click here.