A new 8-30g housing proposal has been filed with town officials.
This one — for 18 units in 9 duplexes, all “affordable” based on state statutes — is planned for 96 Compo Road North.
The homes would be built by Eagle River. They produce manufactured and modular homes in Pennsylvania, for delivery anywhere.
96 Compo Road North is now vacant land, between Brookside Drive and the Town Farm tennis courts and Little League fields.
96 Compo Road North (Photo courtesy of Google Maps)
On the other side of the street, the site is between Tamarac Road and Gorham Avenue.
The 9 duplexes would be built on land (white) inside the pink area. The Town Farm tennis courts and baseball fields are at top.
The developer is familiar. Garden Homes Fund — the philanthropic arm of Stamford-based Garden Homes Management — engaged in a lengthy court battle to develop 122 Wilton Road.
Those 19 units of affordable housing, on the corner of Kings Highway North, are managed by Homes with Hope. The Westport non-profit is not affiliated with the Compo Road North project.
In its application, Garden Homes says that the new housing would consist entirely of 2-bedroom units. It would “provide housing in Westport for low and moderate income families with school-aged children.”
Rendering of 1 of the 9 proposed duplexes.
The application adds, “While the need for affordable housing is dire in Connecticut, it is most needed in neighborhoods of high opportunity. Neighborhoods play a central role in upward mobility and are where children experience socioeconomic development, form social ties, and access resources and life opportunities.”
The Fund would develop the property, then sell it to “an area housing non-profit at below cost on completion.” The project would generate 14 points, toward an 8-30g moratorium.
There would be 24 parking spaces. Residents would be limited to 1 car per unit, “strictly enforced as a condition of the lease.”
No date has yet been set for hearings by the Planning & Zoning Commission, or other town bodies.
There will be no decision on athletic field lights tonight.
The Planning & Zoning Commission — which was scheduled to discuss a proposal for both Wakeman and PJ Romano Fields — canceled its public hearing. Not all members were able to attend.
The next meeting is scheduled for October 19.
That frees up commissioners and interested residents to attend tonight’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand reading of “Portrait of a Woman in Repose.”
Earlier today, it was announced that Tom Hanks will join Wendie Malick and Tony Shalhoub at the event. It’s a milestone: the 100th show in the series.
Unfortunately for the P&Z, and anyone else thinking of attending: It’s already sold out.
Marc Lemcke is a Westport resident, and a close observer of Aquarion. He writes:
On Tuesday (October 6), the Representative Town Meeting will vote on Jonathan Steinberg’s appointment as Westport’s representative to the new Aquarion Water Authority.
It should vote yes — but that should be the beginning, not the end, of the decision.
The first selectman should give Steinberg a broader mandate: become Westport’s water czar and build, for the first time, a comprehensive strategy for
drinking water, fire protection, flooding, land use, water quality, conservation — and the costs residents will increasingly be asked to bear.
Jonathan Steinberg
The recent flood was not the first selectman’s fault. But it exposed what his administration has failed to address: Westport still manages water as a collection of disconnected problems.
Flooding goes to one board, sewers to another, land use rules somewhere else, while drinking water and fire protection are left to Aquarion.
For too long, Westport has treated water as someone else’s problem: Aquarion’s, the state’s, or the next storm’s.
But the water flooding our streets and the water in our pipes are part of one system, and the town’s own choices affect both.
Flooding last month at Pumpkin Hill and Colony Roads. (Photo/Kimberly Paris)
Development standards that increase impervious surfaces, zoning decisions that fill flood-prone land, and public assets managed without regard to drainage (including the Longshore golf course, which draws heavily on public water at
subsidized rates), all belong in the same conversation.
The consequences are no longer abstract: rapidly increasing costs, Westport’s PFAS remaining above the contamination threshold beyond Connecticut’s 2029 compliance deadline, and an intolerable public safety risk from inadequate
fire flow.
Westport needs a water czar: one official, answerable to residents, responsible for every part of the problem.
No one holds that job today. The first task would be simple and overdue: put
the town’s water records, spending and plans where residents can see them.
That opportunity arrived when the new public Aquarion Water Authority completed its acquisition at a cost to ratepayers — including transaction fees — of $2.6 billion.
Westport went from being a customer of a private monopoly to one of 59 communities represented in the governance of a public authority.
But Aquarion’s equity investors have been replaced by debt investors with even stronger contractual rights, and public ownership is no guarantee of public
benefit.
Westport holds only one seat among 59. Unless Steinberg enters with a clear mandate and builds coalitions before voting blocs harden, the authority could repeat the failures of what it replaced — under a public seal.
Fire protection shows what deferred accountability looks like. In 2008, the Westport Fire Department warned Aquarion about inadequate fire flow, meaning not enough water reaching hydrants to fight a serious fire, in the Rayfield Road and Turkey Hill Road areas.
On September 9, 2008, the company replied. It had replaced pressure regulators but “only realized a minor increase” in fire flow. Meeting the requirements of the town’s recent Insurance Services Office evaluation, it said, would take improvements “more extensive than a retrofit of existing infrastructure.”
In 2014, six years later, the ISO, which rates towns’ fire protection for insurers, tested 15 hydrants across Westport. Fourteen fell short of Aquarion’s own
standard.
As far as the public record shows, no one has retested since. This is what it looks likewhen everyone is responsible, and no one is accountable.
Fire hydrant, Parker Harding Plaza.
PFAS presents the same failure, but its consequences are harder to see. In a regulatory filing, Aquarion disclosed that Westport’s wells exceed the federal limit for PFAS. and that treatment will not be ready by the 2029 state deadline.
Yet residents have no way to tell which source reaches their homes, or what their own exposure might be. Westporters have been left to piece together the risk on their own.
A lawsuit now in Waterbury Superior Court goes further. The amended complaint in Vincent v. Aquarion Water Company alleges that the company knew about the contamination and pushed treatment spending into”later capital-plan periods.”
These are allegations, not findings. No court has ruled on them.
But one thing is not in dispute. By Aquarion’s own account, Westport’s water will not be in compliance when the state deadline arrives.
The formal Aquarion position for Jonathan Steinberg comes with only an honorarium. The expanded role proposed here does not.
Building coalitions across 59 communities, overseeing a comprehensive town plan, and challenging a powerful utility will require serious time, expertise,
and access to technical assistance.
Jonathan Steinberg has spent many years dealing with this state regulatory agency.
Westport should compensate its water czar accordingly and provide a modest operating budget. Becoming a model town for 21st-century water management
may be the smartest investment Westport can make.
Mr. Steinberg is unusually qualified. During 16 years in Hartford — and as House chair of the Energy and Technology Committee — he has dealt directly with utilities, regulators, and the lawyers surrounding them.
He understands that Aquarion has often behaved like a law firm with a water business attached, and he is not naïve about the resistance meaningful reform will encounter.
He also knows how to build coalitions, which will be essential if Westport is to turn 1 seat among 59 into real influence.
Inside the authority, Steinberg should organize communities with shared interests. He should demand a strategic review of Aquarion’s service territories, built under an entirely different assumptions, and capital priorities — asking whether ratepayers can afford golden tanks and silver pipes while basic risks remain unresolved — and press for a credible PFAS compliance schedule, reliable fire flow, and affordable rates.
Aquarion has a large presence in Westport — including the North Avenue storage facility. (Photo/Richard Fogel)
He must also prepare Westport for Aquarion’s steadily declining payment in lieu of taxes before it becomes another surprise.
In Westport, his mandate must connect that work with everything the town has kept separate: drinking water, fire flow, PFAS, flooding, stormwater, land use regulation, conservation, and public assets.
Longshore alone warrants a review: its irrigation demands, rain capture, drainage footprint and flood exposure make it a test case for what 21st-century management of a public waterfront asset should look like.
He should convene responsible officials and civic groups, establish shared priorities, and produce Westport’s first comprehensive water plan — one that
assigns responsibility, sets deadlines, and measures results.
That requires transparency the town has long withheld. Steinberg should press the authority to end unnecessary redactions, and disclose rate and capital decisions before they become irreversible.
In Westport, he should establish a public water dashboard — tracking PFAS
progress, fire-flow testing, infrastructure investment, flood initiatives, and Aquarion’s declining tax contribution — and hold an annual public reckoning.
After years of hidden filings and decisions made beyond public view, residents should not have to investigate their own government to learn whether they are safe.
On October 6, the RTM should confirm Jonathan Steinberg. The first selectman must then give him the mandate, authority and resources to do the job properly.
Steinberg, in turn, should accept the challenge and tell residents what he will demand from Aquarion and from the town itself.
Jenna Petok and Markus Marty are co-directors of Walk Bike Westport. They write:
Last December, Westport won something many towns compete for and don’t get: a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant of $895,200.
Next Wednesday, October 7 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Board of Finance will vote on an appropriation of $1,119,000. If approved, the town would then be reimbursed 80%. Westport taxpayers would be responsible for just $224,000.
Without approval, Westport can’t accept the money.
We hope they say yes. If you agree, now is the time to make your voice heard:
This isn’t the first time the Board has looked at this grant. In May, members raised fair questions. Were we funding 3 overlapping studies? How much staff time would it take? And would any of it lead to real improvements, or just more reports?
Those were the right questions. Public Works took them seriously, and the program coming back to the Board is different.
The 3 separate plans are now one coordinated plan, with 1 advisory committee and 1 review process. The planning builds directly on the town’s adopted Safety Action Plan instead of repeating it, and it’s designed to work alongside the Plan of Conservation and Development, not duplicate it.
Most importantly, a dedicated share of the budget now goes to building safety improvements on our streets.
Last fall, Walk Bike Westport co-direct Markus Marty (front) led a walk from Jesup Green to Saugatuck. The event drew many local candidates, and interested residents.
The total cost and the town’s share are the same. What Westport gets for it is better.
Here’s what the grant buys.
Real projects on real streets. This is the part we’re most excited about. The grant funds up to 4 temporary safety projects on town roads, measured before and after. If something works, the town can make it permanent. If it doesn’t, it comes out. We’d call that responsible spending: test first, then invest.
A Town-wide Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. It defines a realistic walking and biking network for Westport, one that fits our New England streets, with priority projects, planning level costs, and a path to implementation. Inside it:
A Safe Routes to School Plan. Westport has never had one. Many parents would like their kids to walk or bike to school, and many kids would like to. This plan looks school by school, public and private, at the crossings, connections, and traffic patterns that make that harder than it should be, and lays out what to fix first.
A Complete Streets Policy. A practical framework for considering every user when the town builds and maintains streets, recognizing that one size doesn’t fit every Westport road.
An ADA Transition Plan. A town-wide look at sidewalks, curb ramps, and crossings, with a prioritized plan to make them work for people with disabilities, seniors, and parents with strollers.
This grant didn’t come out of nowhere. Westport’s Public Works and Engineering teams, along with the Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Committee, have spent years on the unglamorous work of making our streets safer: new sidewalks, crosswalks, intersection improvements, and a Safety Action Plan the town adopted in 2025.
That plan is already producing results, including improvements underway on Kings Highway North, and it’s what made Westport competitive for this funding. It’s a good example of a modest local investment paying off many times over.
Last fall, dozens of Walk Bike Westport enthusiasts gathered at Jesup Green, for a walk. (Photos/John Videler for Videler Photography)
The math is simple. For every dollar Westport puts in, the federal government puts in four. And plans like these are what position a town for future implementation grants, the kind that pay for sidewalks and crossings rather than studies.
We know the Board takes its responsibility to taxpayers seriously, and we respect that. The questions asked in May made this a better program. Now it deserves a yes.
Westport worked hard to win this grant. Let’s make sure we keep it.
Werner Liepolt is a longtime Bridge Street resident, and a Section 106 consulting party for the Cribari Bridge project. He writes:
Last Sunday, the League of Women Voters brought District 9 residents together with our 4 Representative Town Meeting members
It was a welcome opportunity to talk about flooding, traffic, development and the Cribari Bridge.
The bridge discussion raised a question that reaches far beyond District 9: When will 1st Selectman Kevin Christie organize Westport’s participation in a project that could reshape Saugatuck for generations?
RTM member Nancy Kail had asked him for an update on the bridge, and the formation of an advisory committee. His September 27 response promised “more on the Cribari and Downtown committees soon.”
Residents need more than “soon.” We need a timetable, a public process, and a clear account of what the town intends to accomplish.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie (Photo/Dave Matlow)
That expectation follows Mr. Christie’s own statement. On April 9 he announced a Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee, saying, “Westport has a real stake in this project for our neighborhoods, our infrastructure, and our fiscal future.”
He said the committee would ground decisions in facts, incorporate community input, and identify solutions that work for Westport.
Four days later, at an appearance at the Westport Library, Governor Ned Lamont responded to RTM member Kristin Schneeman’s question about the bridge. He acknowledged residents’ concerns, and said he would bring Mr. Christie and the state transportation commissioner together to work toward a solution.
Those statements offered a promising beginning.
Nearly 6 months later, residents deserve to know what has followed: Has the committee been appointed? Have those discussions taken place? What work is underway, and when will the public participate?
Cribari Bridge. (Photo/Fred Cantor)
I live on Bridge Street, and have participated in the federal review as a Section 106 consulting party since 2017. The February 2026 Environmental Assessment identifies replacement on the existing alignment as the preferred alternative.
The federal Permitting Dashboard currently lists May 31, 2027 as the estimated completion date for environmental review and permitting. That date gives Westport a reason to act now.
The 1st Selectman’s office and the RTM should use the remaining time to assemble the evidence, document local concerns, and establish what the town wants the agencies to address.
The risk of delay is practical: The agencies’ review can advance while Westport’s concerns remain scattered among individual residents, departments and organizations.
A coordinated town submission would make those concerns explicit, and give residents a basis for checking whether they have been answered.
The 1st selectman is in a position to bring that work together. Residents deserve to know what discussions he has had with the state Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, what he has requested, and what commitments he has obtained.
If those discussions have occurred, he should report on them. If they have not, he should initiate them.
The questions requiring attention are substantial, but understandable. What traffic would each bridge alternative accommodate or attract? Could changes in capacity or clearance alter heavytruck routes? What would that mean for noise, vibration, air quality, and pedestrian safety? Whether truck traffic would increase—and by how much—deserves analysis.
The review should also account for commuter traffic, school buses, children walking or biking, and parent drop-offs, alongside foreseeable development.
The proposed 250 apartments at 55 Greens Farms Road, including 75 affordable units, make it particularly important to examine future travel needs. For residents who do not drive or have limited transportation options, these questions are especially consequential.
The town should hear directly from residents of The Saugatuck senior cooperative, and nearby Homes with Hope housing.
Each alternative, including its construction period, should be evaluated for safe access to shopping, medical care, work, buses and the railroad station.
Safety concerns in this neighborhood already have concrete examples. In 2022, a jury returned a verdict against the state in a case involving a teenager seriously injured after CTDOT inadequately removed a Bridge Street crosswalk. More recently, a police pursuit involved collisions on Bridge Street near Imperial Avenue.
Bridge Street traffic, headed to the Cribari Bridge. (Photo/Susan Garment)
These incidents underscore the need to examine crossings, intersections and pedestrian protection throughout the bridge’s approaches. Alongside traffic and safety, Westport needs clear answers about design flexibility, rehabilitation and replacement costs, service lives, construction disruption, emergency access, historic-district impacts, and ownership of the bridge and its approaches.
Mr. Christie, 3 actions would demonstrate leadership now.
First, announce the Cribari committee’s membership, mandate, and timetable. Give it clear responsibility for examining neighborhood impacts and bridge alternatives, with meaningful public participation. Convene a working session with residents, housing representatives, town staff and the Historic District Commission, and invite CTDOT and FHWA.
Second, designate a town coordinator to assemble transportation, housing, land-use, property, emergency-access and preservation information into a written submission to the agencies.
Third, publish the town’s questions and the agencies’ responses. Confirm whether a revised Environmental Assessment is planned, its anticipated publication date, and the opportunities for further public comment. Set dates for the working session and town submission so residents can follow progress.
The town cannot control every state or federal decision. However, its leadership can ensure that Westport’s concerns are documented, presented, and pursued.
Please give residents a public plan and dates for action. The opportunity to influence this review is too important to leave at “soon.”
Town officials are moving ahead on a replacement for the Jesup Road bridge. The small span — an important link between police headquarters, the Library and Levitt Pavilion, and Imperial Avenue — has been closed since the September 13 rain bomb.
Bids on a replacement design will be received through 11 a.m. October 28, at the Town Hall finance office (room 313). The Request for Proposal covers engineering and design services for the replacement bridge, including surveys, hydraulic analysis, environmental review, design, permitting and bid support.
Bids will be opened at 11:30 a.m. that same day, via Zoom. Interested parties may apply for access by emailing bwatson@westportct.gov.
This is the Jesup Road bridge that must be replaced. (Photo/Susan Teicher)
“We recognize the importance of restoring this connection as quickly as responsibly possible,” says 1st Selectman Kevin Christe.
“We are moving engineering, permitting and funding forward in parallel wherever possible, with a focus on delivering a replacement that is safe and more resilient.”
Public Works Director Larry Roberts adds, “The replacement needs to be designed for the larger storm events and hydraulic conditions we are experiencing today.
“By coordinating engineering, permitting and agency review from the beginning, we can work to shorten the overall project schedule while ensuring the new bridge is designed appropriately for the site.”
The underside of the damaged Jesup Road bridge.
Since the September 13 storm, the town has worked with federal, state and regional partners to identify opportunities to expedite the replacement and pursue available funding.
Town officials are also evaluating whether a temporary bridge or other interim access solution could safely and responsibly restore the connection while the permanent replacement moves forward, including whether such an investment would be financially prudent.
Officials say that Emergency Medical Services conducted test routes under emergency conditions, and found that the bridge closure does not significantly affect response times.
The town is monitoring traffic patterns, and evaluating potential adjustments to improve traffic flow and access while the bridge remains closed.
The Board of Finance will consider a $172,500 appropriation for design and permitting on October 7. Representative Town Meeting (RTM) Finance, Public Works and Transit committees voted unanimously Tuesday night to recommend the appropriation to the full RTM, subject to Board of Finance approval.
The full RTM could then consider it at a special meeting before its regularly scheduled November meeting.
That’s because they know tomorrow is October 1. And that means dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach!
The next 6 months belong to the dogs. But remember:
Dogs are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
All dogs must be leashed, except for the off-leash area south of the pavilion (including South Beach).
Pick up your pup’s poop. It’s the law! (With a $77 fine.)
Remember too: dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time.
Happy (dog) days are here again! (Photo/Mark Mathias)
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After months of debate, lights on the Wakeman and PJ Romano athletic fields will come to a vote on Monday.
The Planning & Zoning Commission meets (October 5, 6 p.m., Zoom) to render a decision. The public portion of the meetings has ended; this will be a work session.
The public can weigh in, however, on a separate agenda item: a text and map amendment that would permit outdoor eating areas, and the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption, in districts like the one that includes Old Mill Grocery & Deli).
For meeting materials click here, then scroll down to 222 Hillspoint Road and Food and Beverage Planned Development District.
Wakeman, one of 2 fields considered for permanent lighting.
Speaking of Old Mill Grocery & Deli: Romanacci’s — operators of the business — said goodbye to the community last night. Dozens of friends and customers — from the neighborhood, and far beyond — enjoyed food and drinks, courtesy of owners Graziano and Maurizio Ricci.
They opted not to renew their lease of the iconic market. They enjoyed their time, and did not lose money. But they’re turning their attention to a new restaurant, opening soon in Darien.
The last night at OMG.
Soundview Empowerment Alliance — owners of the 107-year-old building — are in talks with potential new operators. Though OMG is now closed, they hope for a fairly quick reopening.
They hope too for a positive vote from the Planning & Zoning Commission on Monday, on a text amendment that would permit outdoor dining, and the sale of alcohol (see item above).
Catching up at Old Mill Grocery & Deli (from left): Representative Town Meeting member Jimmy Izzo, former 2nd selectwoman Andrea Moore, former 1st selectwoman Jen Tooker. (Photos/Dan Woog)
Does our beloved American flag unite us today? Or does it divide us?
That’s the question explored by a wide variety of citizens in “Flagged,” a documentary co-written and directed by a woman who lost her firefighter husband on 9/11.
It will be screened October 7 (5:30 p.m., Earthplace amphitheater). The event includes snacks and beverages, a guided conversation after the film, and an appearance by singer Suzanne Sheridan.
Dr. Christina Cipriano is earning notice with her latest book: “Be Unapologetically Impatient: The Mindset Required to Change the Way We Do Things.” It is a guide for creating meaningful, urgent change in the lives of children and families.
On October 20 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Westport Together hosts her, for a talk. Her work advances inclusive and equitable social and emotional learning research, practice and policy worldwide.
Parents are invited to an “interactive, neuro-affirming conversation focused on helping neuro-divergent children build self-understanding and self-advocacy, while also fostering healthy communication, connection, and understanding among siblings.”
The event (October 22, 7:30 p.m., Pizza Lyfe) is sponsored by NeuroMind Services x UniquelyMothering.
Mah jongg is the star of local author Marsha Temlock’s latest novel.
“Monday’s MahJongg is a Mystery” will be published this month. Like her previous work, it features 4 women who bond and support each other while playing the popular game.
Anna — one of the Monday players — is desperate for a family after multiple failures to carry to term. Her husband is unwilling to donate his sperm, so she appeals to her fellow players to help her find a donor.
To what degree are her friends willing to violate their conscience to help Anna realize her dream of motherhood? What secret is Bert harboring that makes him opposed to helping the wife he adores? Can the weekly mah jongg game withstand the revelation of secrets that shatter and tumble when play begins?
And finally … the item about a flag documentary (above) got us thinking about flags.
Then of course there is this classic, for every flag, all over the world:
(Does our flag unite or divide us? The jury’s out. But it’s clear that “06880” brings Westport together. If you like being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
After one rain bomb and one nor’easter this month, beach resiliency is an important topic.
This Thursday (October 1, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), the Parks & Recreation Department hosts their 2nd forum on RACE Coastal Engineering’s Comprehensive Beach Resiliency Planning Studies.
The studies — involving Compo, Old Mill, Burying Hill and Canal Beaches — cover existing site conditions, potential beach profiles, and anticipated regulatory requirements.
This forum follows one on July 13. Residents can learn more, and ask questions about beach resiliency.
How resilient are our beaches? We’re about to find out. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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Congratulations to Tom Scarice!
Westport’s superintendent of schools is a finalist for not one, but two awards from the National Association of School Superintendents: Superintendent of the Year, and the Technology and AI Award.
The Superintendent of the Year honor recognizes extraordinary leadership and contributions to public education. Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein says his nomination “reflects his leadership of Westport Public Schools, and his focus on creating robust opportunities and stellar outcomes for our students.”
The Technology and AI Award honors his “thoughtful work to help our schools use artificial intelligence intentionally and responsibly, while keeping students and educators at the center of teaching and learning.
Recipients will be announced October 7.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. (Photo/Dan Woog)
At 11:45 a.m., they’ll host of a free outdoor Pilates class with Sarah Sadie Newett. All levels are welcome. Mats and props are provided.
At noon, the Pink Aid flag will be raised (with snacks from The Granola Bar).
The heart of Westport is an appropriate spot. Pink Aid started right here in town, 16 years ago.
It’s grown into a national organization providing compassionate support and rapid emergency financial assistance to patients in treatment, supporting them and their families during a critical time.
A reminder: The first event in “06880”‘s newest venture — community celebrations of local businesses — comes up soon. Everyone is invited.
On October 10 (5 to 7 p.m), “06880” and Kiin Sauna host “Community, Connection and Contrast.” KiiN is at 1555 Post Road East, next to Sherpa, Longevity, Zion and CT Sports Recovery — all wellness businesses too.
You’ll see friends and neighbors. Enjoy complimentary beverages. Meet KiiN founder Ginger Richardson, who will tell you all about the benefits of a sauna and cold plunge.
Ginger Richardson
If you feel adventurous, you can try a sauna and cold plunge yourself. (Sauna and plunge space is limited; click here to sign up.)
Ginger and her crew are great hosts. It’s a fun way to learn about a new spot in town.
Dave Briggs and I will host more events soon, all over town. We look forward to this new series. If your business would like to collaborate with us, email us: 06880blog@gmail.com.
Security continues to be a major concern for the local Jewish community.
On October 6 (7:30 p.m., TCS Westport). the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield hosts “The State of Security in the Jewish Community.”
Featured speaker Michael Masters is national director and CEO of Secure Community Network, the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America.
An expert on homeland and national security, terrorism, law enforcement, antisemitism and targeted violence, he has testified before Congress and appeared regularly in national media.
Masters will discuss lessons learned since October 7, the current threat landscape, and the work being done locally to help keep the Jewish community safe.
Westport elections are always fair — and transparent.
For example: When the registrars of voters begin flash media stick and tabulator testing on October 7 (10 a.m., Town Hall room 212D), the public is invited to observe. Residents can watch until testing is complete.
Questions about anything voting related? Contact the registrars: Deborah Greenberg (Democrat), dgreenberg@westportct.gov (203-341-1116); Maria Louise Signore (Republican) msignore@westportct.gov (203-341-1117).
The popular Thursday series now kicks off 30 minutes earlier: 7 and 8:15 p.m.. The venue is still VFW Post 399. Dinner service begins half an hour sooner too: 6:30 p.m.
Westport’s own Melissa Newman headlines this week. She’s joined by 3 regulars: guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.
Melissa Newman
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Girls are on the run!
Girls on the Run is an after-school program. It’s part of a national positive youth development project for grades 3 to 7.
Twice a week, girls learn about and practice skills and positive mindsets, including positive self-talk, friendship, and the importance of individuality.
Each session includes running. Girls build endurance, culminating in that celebratory 5K.
This fall, the program “runs” at Kings Highway Elementary School. It runs for 8 weeks, beginning October 7. Wednesdays, it’s 3:45 to 5 p.m.; on Fridays it’s 7:45 to 9 a.m. The team is led for the 3rd yearby Todd Suchotliff,
One of the Girls on the Run highlights is a 5K at the end of the season. Girls recognize their growth, celebrate their accomplishments and experience the power of working toward a goal together.
Westport resident Kathleen Weiss died peacefully on Thursday, with her family at her side. She was 84.
The New Jersey native graduated from nursing school at Saint Francis Medical Center. She moved to Westport in 1975 and worked as a nurse at Norwalk Hospital, the Westport public school system, and for several home healthcare companies.
She returned to school to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Sacred Heart University. She later taught home healthcare at Western Connecticut State University, retiring recently.
Kathleen was a devout parishioner at Saint Luke Church for 51 years. She taught catechism, was a lector, assisted with charitable efforts, and attended Mass without fail until she was physically unable.
Kathleen married Timothy Weiss in 1965. They enjoyed dancing at the Fairfield County Cotillion Club, Gaelic American Club, and wherever else the spirit moved. They traveled widely, and especially enjoyed their time in Ireland and Italy.
Kathleen is survived by her husband; sons Timothy Jr. (Laura Barron-Weiss), David (Tracy Karlbergs) and Matthew Weiss; grandchildren Adele, Watson and Kathryn; step-grandchildren Thomas Barron and Gabrielle Barron; sister Ann and brother-in-law Thomas Weiss; brother Joseph and sister-in-law Virginia Smith, and brother Leo and sister-in-law Kathleen Smith. She was predeceased by her sisters Mary Woodrum and Susan Ingersoll, and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral mass is set for Friday (October 2, 11 a.m., St. Luke Church). Burial will be private.
Donations may be made to the Regional Hospice of Danbury. Kathleen’s family is grateful to the staff and volunteers for their wonderful care during her final days.
Kathleen Weiss
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What do bobcats do when they think no one is watching?
Play around — just like any other cats.
This pair — our featured photo for today’s “Westport … Naturally” series — frolicked off Long Lots Road.
(Pour yourself a hot coffee. Enjoy the morning. Read “06880.” Learn all about Westport. Then remember that we rely on readers’ support — so please click here, then go about your day. Thank you!)
As we prepare for another weekend of wild weather — rain, wind, and who knows what else — here are some helpful links.
Connecticut Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection: click here.
State Senator Tony Hwang — who provided this information — hosted a recent Extreme Weather & Coastal Resiliency Informational Forum. It highlighted
the importance of resiliency and preparation against growing risks of flooding, severe winds, coastal erosion and extreme weather. Click here to see.
From that forum, you can link to FEMA’s Severe Wind Protection Plan (click here; page 19) and Financial Preparedness and Homeowners’ Insurance Claims (page 15).
The Connecticut Insurance Department has also launched a resource to assist with preparedness. Click here to see.
Will this weekend bring a repeat of 2 weekends ago? Be prepared!
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Meanwhile: Still cleaning up from the September 13 flood (while preparing for this weekend’s weather)?
Help may be near.
And it’s free.
The state Division of Emergency Management & Homeland Security and CT Volunteer Organizations Assisting in Disasters has engaged the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief organization to offer free help.
Assistance includes assessment, removal of damaged items and materials, cleanup and mold mitigation.
To request assistance, call 203-628-6978. Leave a message after the beep with your name, phone number, address, and a brief description of your needs.
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One cancellation already for tomorrow: The Fun Fest at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.
Two important projects — one (hopefully relatively) short-term, the other longer — are on the agenda when the Board of Finance meets October 7 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; livestream at www.westportct.gov).
The board will be asked to approve an appropriation of $172,5000, for the design cost and permitting of the Jesup Road bridge replacement.
The short, often unnoticed span was weakened during the September 13 flood. The road is closed, shutting off an important route from Imperial Avenue to the police station, Library and Levitt Pavilion.
The project has been estimated to take 12 to 18 months. Residents and town officials hope for an expedited process.
The second request is for $176,000, for the initial assessment and “new vs. renovation comparison study” for the future Coleytown Elementary School project.
This would be an initial step in a long-awaited process for the 1950s-era building.
The BOF will also consider a request for $1,119,000, for consultant services in support of the Safe Streets and Roads for All, Supplemental Planning and Demonstration Grant.
The state Department of Transportation will mill and resurface Route 57 (Weston Road) from Easton Road (Route 136) to just south of the Weston town line, beginning Sunday.
The work is expected to be completed by October 9, weather permitting.
Although this section of Route 57 was resurfaced in June, the top layer of asphalt is to be replaced due to an issue with the paving material.
The tentative start date for the milling portion of the project is scheduled to begin Sunday night, and continue for approximately 3 nights.
The tentative start date for the paving portion is the night of Wednesday, September 30, 2026, and continue for approximately 3 nights.
The Westport Prize for Literature goes to … “Good People.” The debut novel by Patmeena Sabit was selected by an independent jury from a field of finalists that also included “Transcription” by Ben Lerner and “The Children” by Melissa Albert.
Now in its 4th year, the $10,000 annual prize honors original works of literary fiction published in the US that are both relevant and timeless. The prize is administered by Westport resident volunteers.
Sabit will receive the prize at the Library on November 12 (7 p.m.), followed by a conversation with Meghan O’Rourke, editor of The Yale Review. Copies of Good People will be available for purchase at the event, and Sabit will sign books afterward. For more information about the event, click here.
How often do you get a chance to hear a Grammy-nominated singer in Westport … for free?
(Besides the Levitt Pavilion, of course.)
Next Friday (October 2, 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport), baritone Sidney Outlaw and pianist Piotr Kozlowsk presenting the Connecticut premiere of “26 Ways of Looking at a Black Man,” with music by B.E. Boykin and poetry by Raymond Patterson.
The UU says, “This is an opportunity not simply to hear a world-class performer, but to gather around a deeply meaningful work that centers Black artistry, identity and lived experience.”
And finally … on this date in 2001 — 20 years after his death — the voice of Bob Marley ushered satellite radio onto the air. It promised listeners greater variety — for a price — with the launch of XM Satellite Radio. It was the first worldwide broadcast of a satellite radio station
(We’re getting ready for another weekend. As always, “06880” will be here with whatever news you need. And as always, we’re grateful for any readers who click here to support our work. Thank you!)
For months, rumors have circulated that Douglas Ouellette’s name as the Republican candidate for Westport’s 136th District state House of Representatives seat was a placeholder.
His name was filed with Secretary of the State on May 28.
On July 31, “06880” reported, “There’s been no sign of activity, online or in real life. Ouellette has not run for office before. His LinkedIn profile identifies him as CEO of Westport-based Home Choice Senior Care.
“No official announcement has been made. Westport Republican Town Committee chair Patrizia Zucaro did not respond to an email request for comment.”
Tuesday was the deadline for the Westport RTC to replace him with a different candidate, according to Town Clerk Jeff Dunkerton and Registrar of Voters Deb Greenberg.
So it appears Democrat Lee Goldstein is running against Douglas Ouellette.
But there has still been no press release or other announcement from the Republicans.
And no one has heard from Ouellette himself.
Screenshot of Ballotpedia courtesy of, and hat tip to, Tom Price.
“06880” has reported on recent weekend parties, attended by large groups at the beach. The Westport Police Department says:
“Through both formal and informal complaints received from Westport Parks & Recreation staff as well as neighbors, the WPD has recently observed multiple instances of extremely large gatherings of predominantly high school aged youths at Compo Beach. In most cases these incidents have been reported on weekends. and after the 10 p.m. closing time of the beach.
“Complaints have included allegations of disturbances, underage drinking, marijuana usage, littering and damage to property, with numbers of youth observed by the responding officers estimated to be in the 200 to 300 person range or greater.”
Last Friday and Saturday “officers encountered, and subsequently needed to disperse, gatherings of this size at Compo Beach. These gatherings have been comprised of both area youth as well as groups from out of state.
“The Westport Police Department in partnership with the Westport Prevention Coalition and the Office of the 1st Selectman would like to again take this opportunity to remind both youth and their parents of the town’s zero-tolerance policy on underage drinking and cannabis use.
“Additionally, crimes against persons and property perpetrated by youth will not be tolerated. Area patrols have been increased to monitor this situation going forward, and officers will issue citations for observed violations.
“Despite that, these are not the outcomes we wish to see, so we ask parents to closely monitor their children’s activity and please help to do their part to discourage participation in these gatherings.”
The story said that meeting materials had not yet been posted on the town website.
Town engineer Ted Gill responded quickly. He said:
“All WPLO applications that come in front of the F&ECB also need to go to the Conservation Commission. So there is only 1 set of documents for the one application, which then goes to both bodies.
“The documents for all F&ECB WPLO applications are on the Town website, attached to the Conservation Commission meeting link for the corresponding application.”
All the materials — and we do mean all — are available here. After clicking on, scroll down.
Thank you, Ted!
This building would be torn down, and replaced by a larger one.
A reader writes: “We’re expecting another storm this weekend. In the past, the town of Westport provided sand and sandbags for downtown businesses, particularly those of us who are vulnerable to flooding during high-tide storms.
“I just got off the phone with Public Works, and was told the town no longer provides either the bags or the sand. We can certainly order the bags ourselves, but obtaining and transporting sand individually may be more challenging for small businesses.
“From my experience, sandbags can make a real difference in helping minimize water damage. I wanted to see whether there may be any way for the town to assist downtown businesses with access to sand, even if we are responsible for purchasing our own bags.”
“06880” contacted Public Works director Larry Roberts. He responded promptly: “Until about 8 years ago, the town provided sand and bags to residents. Residents could drive up to the highway garage and fill bags themselves, and our staff helped those who were unable to. Downtown businesses could participate as well.
“The program was discontinued mainly because of the logistics involved: storing clean sand and staffing the site to fill bags on demand.
“At the same time, as buildings on Main Street were renovated, many owners installed flood gate systems in place of sandbags. These gates offer better protection and are easier to store when not in use. Since those renovations, commercial demand for sandbags has been negligible.”
Sandbags on Main Street during Hurricane Sandy, 2012.
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Families, friends, neighbors and individuals are invited to “Give Back Together” — and help Homes with Hope.
This Saturday (September 26, 8 to 11 a.m., 10 Church Lane), volunteers will pack essential item bags — filled with household items, snacks and personal hygiene products — for people served by Westport’s supportive housing non-profit.
A $25 contribution covers the cost of 2 bags. All items will be provided. Click here to register. The event is sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, FLB Law, David Adam Realty and Willo.
Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between September 16 and 22.
A 38-year-old Fairfield woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs and failure to yield right of way, following a Sunday accident at Saugatuck Avenue and Ferry Lane, with injuries. She was released on a $500 bond.
A 25-year-old Manhattan man and 24-year-old Bronx man were charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into the February theft of a car from Volvo of Westport. Both were held on $150,000 bonds.
A 55-yar-old Bridgeport man was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, following the theft of a Jeep from the Saugatuck train station. The key had been hidden within the exterior mounted spare tire. He was held on a $100,000 bond.
A 59-year-old Philadelphia woman was charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, charging greater than $500 on a revoked payment card, conspiracy to commit that crime, identity theft, and conspiracy to commit identity theft, following an investigation into the theft of a woman’s wallet at HomeGoods. She was released on a $10,000 bond.
A 36-year-old woman was charged with failure to appear. She was released on a $5,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to renew registration: 10 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 9
Distracted driving: 4
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Texting while driving: 2
Speeding: 1
Passing a standing school bus: 1
School zone violation: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Failure to carry registration: 1
Improper turn: 1
Improper passing: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Articles obstructing view: 1
Unreadable plates: 1
All license plates must be readable!
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Sometimes you look at one of nature’s creatures and say, “Wow!”
Sometimes you see one, and you just laugh.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo elicits both responses.
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The 1st selectman is in a position to bring that work together. Residents deserve to know what discussions he has had with the state Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, what he has requested, and what commitments he has obtained.
