Jennifer Johnson is in her 3rd term as a Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member, from District 9. Previously, she served on the Parks & Recreation Commission. She writes:
Regardless of how one feels about a “dog park,” there is a long-established process for the Parks & Recreation Commission to champion initiatives involving our shared open space.
The PRC clearly followed that process with the recent field-light proposal. Why not for a dog run?
After waiting over 5 hours to speak Monday night, more than 60 residents made clear that this issue deserves a thoughtful process.
The Planning & Zoning Commission already has plenty on its plate. It should not be asked to do the work that should first be vetted by the PRC — including answering basic questions about whether a particular site is appropriate.
And the PRC has already done much of the groundwork. The recently completed, taxpayer-funded $250,000 Parks Master Plan identifies Winslow Park as a possible location for a dog area, but it also specifically identifies Machamux Park, on Greens Farms Road.
Machamux Park (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Given its size, current use, location, parking, etc. Machamux seems worthy of serious consideration. The plan estimates the cost at $80,000 to $100,000. What remains is to determine the ongoing costs and requirements for maintenance, cleaning, management and enforcement.
Whether Westport residents ultimately want a dog park is a legitimate question. But before we let the dogs out — or put up a fence — we should follow the process.
The PRC should review the recommendations of its own Parks Master Plan, and develop a complete proposal. After it has been publicly vetted and voted on by the full Parks & Rec Commission, bring it to the appropriate town bodies.
Then the P&Z can weigh in.
Winslow Park (Photo/Mark Mathias)
There may be plenty of bones to pick with the idea of a dog park. But asking P&Z to decide now whether dedicated open space at Winslow should become a fenced dog area is putting the cart before the dog.
We have a process. Let’s respect it.
And let’s not leave the Parks Master Plan sitting in the doghouse.
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“06880” political correspondent John H. Palmer writes:
Should Winslow Park include a fenced-in dog area?
Or should it be left as is: all open space?
If the almost 50 people who stayed on the Planning & Zoning Commission’s Zoom meeting until almost midnight last night prevail, the 30-acre park will stay the way it is.
Commissioners heard public comments about a proposed text amendment. It would allow a change to town regulations surrounding usage at the park.
No vote was taken, and there is no current plan to build a dog park on the site. Debate involved whether town regulations should be altered to allow consideration of a dog park in the future.
The proposal, brought to the commission by Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella and Staples High School senior Emme Dorfman, asks the planners to consider a change that would permit a fenced-in area in the park, which already has sections for leashed and unleashed dogs.
“A fence does not transform the character of the park. It can be a tool to better manage and make it safer,” Colabella said. “If [the vote is] yes, it can allow the commission to discuss a potential change in the use.”
Colabella noted that a fenced-in dog park with rules would create a safer area for dogs. He cited incidents of dogs running onto Compo Road North, being killed by cars.
A separate area would permit passive park users to not be bothered by dogs off leash, he said. It would help contain waste, and allow for sections where smaller dogs can be separated from bigger ones.
Dogs at Winslow Park. (Photo/Tracy Porosoff)
“Enclosed areas increase aggressive because dogs can’t back away,” said Vicki Volper, who has been walking her dogs at Winslow since 1998. “I don’t believe in fenced in dog parks, but definitely not in Winslow Park.”
Dorfman said she worries her 2 dogs will get loose at Winslow. She worked with Colabella on a “Dogport,” to provide an option for dogs much like the town provides playgrounds for different individuals.
“Some people are spreading rumors that the entire park will be fenced off. That’s simply not true,” she said. “Some people simply aren’t comfortable allowing their dogs to run free outside of a fenced-in area. No one would be required to use the fenced in area.”
RTM member Wendy Batteau has had 4 dogs over 39 years in Westport, and walks in Winslow Park daily. To her this is an open space issue. Unless there is a proven need to change things to add value to daily life, the park should stay as it is, she said.
“Winslow Park is not any town park or property,” she noted. “It is dedicated open space, and we need to keep it open space. Why do we need a text amendment to make it a dog park? I don’t think we should be losing our open space for anything but our most serious issues.”
Winslow Park
P&Z chair Paul Lebowitz said dog parks are not an allowed use in Winslow Park, under current town regulations. By changing the text, he said the commission must consider whether or not it would add value to the people in town.
“Anything we do doesn’t automatically approve anything,” he said. “It gives permission to those who might want one to bring it forward.”
He added that in 2023, the commission voted on a similar text amendment that allowed the use of lighting on municipal athletic field in town — a subject debated earlier last night at the P&Z session.
“There’s been tremendous public interest in this, and rightly so,” Lebowitz said.
The issue will be continued at the P&Z’s meeting on Sept. 14.
“06880” political correspondent John H. Palmer reports:
The Planning & Zoning Commission last night closed public hearings on the long debate over whether to allow the Parks & Recreation Department to install 70-foot lighting poles on 2 athletic fields.
However, commissioners stopped short of actually making an official decision.
Closing the hearing was a legal necessity. The issue has consumed the town and public for most of the summer. Officials faced an August 27 deadline to either close the hearing, or have the Parks & Recreation Department withdraw its special permit site application, then resubmit it to restart the clock on deliberations.
The hearing closure allows the planners to review the large volume of submitted information. They will deliberate — and eventually vote — on the application when they reconvene in September.
“Now the hard work starts,” P&Z chair Paul Lebowitz told his board. “The record has a lot to review, and I implore you not to have any gaps in your knowledge, fully equipped based on what we’ve done here.”
Lights have been proposed for PJ Romano Field …
Last night’s discussion of the lighting proposal was a follow-up to July 20, when the P&Z asked Parks & Rec officials for updated reviews of the design from Musco Lighting.
The commission has received hundreds of emails in support of and in opposition to the 2 separate proposals to add permanent lights to both PJ Romano Field (behind Saugatuck Elementary School) and the Wakeman turf field at Bedford Middle School.
The Wakeman proposal has drawn the most attention, as it is located in a residential area. Proponents say the lights — LED fixtures attached to 70-foot poles — are necessary to increase youth playing time in a town where athletics is important and field access is limited.
Those in favor of the lights point out that design measures would minimize impacts on surrounding properties, including down-directed LED fixtures.
Student athletes have complained about missing up 3 hours some days, because games must be scheduled before the sun goes down.
“It’s unfair that every school in Fairfield County has lights and we don’t,” said Emme Dorfman, a Staples High School girls soccer captain during the public hearing portion of Monday evening’s meeting. “We can travel to them, but we can’t host them. The youth in our town and in the future should be a priority.”
Opponents have expressed concerns about noise, light spillage into surrounding neighborhoods, and effects on migratory birds.
Nick Quatrano, parks superintendent, said the town plans to plant 22 10-foot red cedar trees, staggered in 2 rows, as well as Norway spruce trees to help mitigate visual disturbances.
“That’s a tree that gets very large and should provide ample visual screening,” he said. “We will pay conscious attention to making sure that buffer is maintained.”
… and the Wakeman turf field (center).
Another quality-of-life issue involves amplified noise, of particular concern to Wakeman neighbors. Many teams use speakers to play as they warm up.
“It’s wonderful that we can make the money [from outside groups renting the fields], but that’s not the point here,” said Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member Jill Grayson Monday evening.
“If you go by Wakeman there’s a lot of music coming out of those practices. We have to figure out a way to deal with the noise and disruption to neighbors.” She said that she has seen groups at the field partying from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. “We can’t have people’s houses desecrated by people on the field until late at night.”
Parks & Recreation officials, the applicant for lighting, have toed the line between providing lighted fields to help bolster the availability of fields for the many adult and youth athletics in town, as well as the potential for revenue generated by renting the fields to outside groups.
To allay fears that outside groups using fields may disrupt neighborhoods, Parks & Rec director Eric Barbieri presented a usage policy that would require rentals to pay for a staff member to be present. They would monitor lights, notify groups when time is up, ensure that equipment is returned and not damaged, make sure noise is kept down, and that field and spectator areas are left in good condition.
“I have no problem pulling anyone’s permit,” Barbieri said. “If they can’t adhere to a policy, they won’t be able to use it.”
P&Z member Michael Cammeyer said he is not sure having a staff member present is the best option.
“Are we really going to hire a babysitter to monitor the use of the field and charge the user?” he asked. He would like to see a review after the first season, to determine if the policy was abused.
Another view of Wakeman Field.
Liebowitz agreed that the policy would be a good guardrail. “If the training wheels can come off, that’s great,” he said. “We’ll give (Parks & Rec) some muscle to flex on how to handle this going forward. I’d like to see that first season review.”
Commissioner Craig Schiavone expressed concern about lighting on Wakeman Road at night. She would like a public safety review about the safety of people exiting the fields at night.
Barbieri said that the town has temporary lighting that can be used for safety. Meanwhile, a landscape architect will explore more permanent safety lighting options for the area.
“If I had a title for this, I’d call it ‘Promises, Promises’,” said Valerie Seiling Jacobs during the public comment session.
“I don’t see why P&Z should be held hostage to the detriment of the neighbors. I don’t think planting 10-foot trees is going to solve the problems. The neighbors have made it clear. It’s great to have promises but when push comes to shove, it’s the neighbors who need to be protected.”
(“06880” covers local politics, sports, neighborhoods — and, as in this story, their intersection. If you appreciate our 24/7/365 work, please make a donation by clicking here. Thank you!)
“06880” political correspondent John H. Palmer reports:
Representatives of Norwalk’s Spinnaker — looking to build a new development in the heart of Saugatuck — convinced members of the Planning & Zoning Commission Monday last night that the project is heading in the right direction.
At least, aesthetically.
But as has been the case all along, affordable housing continues to be a major sticking point, as the development gets debated.
The latest iteration of the proposed Saugatuck development is still in the “pre-application” phase. A project in progress is presented to the planning board, with the intent of gathering information and advice from town officials — as well as public sentiment — before the official application is filed with the town.
The Spinnaker proposal is the latest development bid since ROAN Ventures gave up their attempt last year to build the “Hamlet” in Saugatuck.
Unlike Hamlet — which involved a complicated mix of several properties — Spinnaker’s proposal had until Monday evening called for 175 mixed units within 1 block of property, as well as 1 retail space at sidewalk level.
Eighteen of the apartments — about 10 percent — would be considered affordable. That’s less than the 20% town regulations require for similar developments.
Street-facing apartments would be less high than ones behind them.
Last night’s meeting — held via Zoom — was the latest look at the proposal since the developers went before the Architectural Review Board on July 28.
At that meeting, representatives for both Spinnaker and Beinfield Architects discussed changes to the design, including 6th-floor lofts for apartments on the floor beneath it, rather than more residences.
The building’s 2 garage levels have been lowered by 2 feet each, and sidewalk setbacks have been deepened. Also, the Riverside Avenue façade will receive a “factory-style” look, with brickwork to blend in with neighboring buildings and pay homage to Saugatuck’s heritage.
As it stands, the proposed development provides for 10% of the planned units to be considered affordable. Spinnaker has been working to meet Westport’s requirement of 20%, one of the region’s most stringent.
To meet this requirement, Spinnaker came back to the table with 2 potential scenarios. According to Adam Blank, land use attorney for Spinnaker, the 20% requirement could be met by reducing the number of total units in the development to 158, limiting 26 units to 80% of the state median income (SMI), while 132 would be market price.
Another scenario would involve providing 140 total units. 10% of the units would rent at 80% SMI, and another 10% at a “workforce income” (110% of area median income, or AMI).
This would mean that 117 units would be at market price and 23 considered affordable.
The potential drawback: Instead of a mixed development of smaller and larger units, there would be likely be a higher density of smaller studios and 1-bedroom apartments.
“This is a way for us to make it work at 20%,” Blank said.
The property Spinnaker hopes to develop is outlined in yellow. Riverside Avenue is at right; Railroad Place and the train tracks at bottom; Charles Street at top.
One sticking point around how many units would be built, Blank said, is the outcome of a state brownfield grant the developer will seek to mitigate contamination on the site. Part of the site sits within a flood zone. Blank was hopeful that the state might make an exemption, and provide funding for the mitigation.
“Millions of dollars on remediation can make a project not viable,” he said. “If we have to pay the remediation, smaller units let us do that.”
Commissioner Bre Injeski made it clear she wasn’t interested in a development that would amount to a bunch of studio apartments, to make it affordable to the developer.
“For me, it’s not a concrete plan,” she said. “In the end, we could end up with almost 100% residential, and it will only be smaller units. For me, it doesn’t add up. The 20% could be discouraging, but that’s where we are.”
Commissioner Craig Schiavone agreed, though she said she was happy with the design.
“We really don’t know what this project will look like until we know about brownfield,” she said. “For me, it’s difficult to reach a comfort level until those numbers are all in. I like the reduction of until count, but you’re not reducing the size of the building. The economics do change, but we don’t know what we as a town are getting.”
Spinnaker, which has developed properties in Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Fairfield and New Haven, bought 606 Riverside Avenue for $12.795 million, and 96 Franklin Street for $3.25 million. The rectangle parcel is anchored by Minute Man Cleaners, and contains a parking lot, locksmith and a white residential building.
The parcel to be developed would be bordered by Charles and Franklin Streets, Riverside Avenue and Railroad Place. Designers plan to preserve the historical feel of Saugatuck through brick architecture.
Brick “industrial”-style facade (right) along Charles Street. The existing 21 Charles Street office building is at far right. Buildings facing Riverside Avenue are on the left.
The pre-app also includes a plan to create a new zone of development — a Transit-Oriented Development sub-area, or TOD — to allow residential development on lots near the Saugatuck train station.
Spinnaker representatives intend to create a “New England Village,” providing a walkable environment and a “symbiotic relationship” with downtown Westport, to help draw visitors to the area.
By comparison, Hamlet proposed 2 underground parking garages that would feature “stackers” employed to accommodate more vehicles. It would have also eliminated most on-street parking. Spinnaker’s version will provide 49 off-street parking spaces plus 10 on-street spaces on Charles Street, in addition to the 283 contained garage spaces.
Spinnaker reps on Monday evening presented new details of the project to address concerns from the ARB, including lower roof heights to 30 to 35 feet that allows more natural light to filter through, along with a plan to build 2 outdoor plazas instead of 1. They would utilize space occupied by an existing house at 16 Railroad Place, a property used for storage that Spinnaker now owns.
The new plan would “move it backwards and create a plaza that bookends our façade and creates an extension of the activity on Railroad Place,” said Seelan Pather, managing principal with Beinfield Architecture.
Artist’s rendering of the view from Riverside Avenue, with Railroad Place at left. An existing white house (center) would be moved back from its current location closer to Riverside, creating a plaza.
“I like this plan better than what is already there,” said commissioner Nicole Laskin.
Chairman Paul Lebowitz echoed the sentiment. “Obviously you heard us the last time, and I like the direction that you guys are heading,” he said.
“It looks you’re getting serious about the streetscape, and I want to know more about what it looks like to the people on the ground, how much retail you can put in there and make it a truly viable part of the community.”
Ken Bernhard is a longtime Westporter. He spent 8 years representing our town in Connecticut’s General Assembly, rising to assistant minority leader. He was 3rd selectman from 1987 to ’89, then served on the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Ken Bernhard
Bernhard has been a board member of the Westport Library, Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, Norwalk Human Services Council, Earthplace, Westport Historical Society, Levitt Pavilion, Aspetuck Land Trust, Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, and Connecticut League of Conservation Voters. He has also worked with Syrian refugees.
In advance of tonight’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (6 p.m., Zoom), which includes discussion of a text amendment that would permit a fenced dog area to be located within a park, Bernhard wrote to commissioners:
I am writing to respectfully oppose Text Amendment #874, which would modify §40, Dedicated Open Space and Recreation District #1 to permit 2 fenced recreational dog play areas at Winslow Park.
In my view, this amendment is a solution looking for a problem that does not exist. The existing arrangement at Winslow Park has worked successfully for more than 20 years. One area allows dogs to exercise and play off leash, while another requires dogs to remain leashed.
This arrangement provides a sensible balance and allows different park users to enjoy Winslow Park according to their preferences. Before fundamentally changing a system that has worked for decades, the Commission should identify the specific problem this amendment is intended to address and determine whether that problem exists.
If the concern is that dogs might run into the street, there are far simpler, less expensive, and less intrusive solutions than constructing enclosed dog facilities. A modest fence, wall, or other barrier along the roadway could address that specific safety concern without converting a portion of the park into a confined dog enclosure.
The existing off-leash area of Winslow Park should instead be recognized for what it really is: a people park as much as it is a dog park.
Its value is not simply that dogs are permitted to run free. The existing arrangement allows owners to walk, exercise, socialize, and enjoy the natural surroundings while spending time with their pets. People get exercise alongside their dogs, and the dogs get exercise, socialization, and the opportunity to explore. That combination of human recreation, outdoor exercise, nature, and responsible pet ownership is precisely what makes the existing area so valuable.
Winslow Park is for people too.
This is particularly important as Westport experiences growth in the number of apartment residences. Many new residents, as well as existing residents who live in apartments or other housing without large yards, need accessible places where they can walk and exercise their dogs. Winslow Park serves that need exceptionally well because it allows both people and dogs to get meaningful exercise and socialize together.
A fenced dog run does not provide the same benefit. Once a dog and owner enter a relatively small enclosure, the opportunity for a long walk through the park is eliminated. The owner loses the exercise and enjoyment of walking in the park, while the dog loses the opportunity to explore a larger natural environment.
A fenced dog area would therefore reduce, rather than expand, the recreational value of Winslow Park for many dog owners. The goal should be to encourage people to walk and exercise with their dogs—not simply to provide a place where dogs can be contained.
The proposal is particularly questionable because it calls for 2 separate enclosed areas—one for large dogs and one for small dogs. This distinction makes little sense as a means of promoting safety. Aggressiveness and temperament are matters of individual personality and training, not characteristics that correspond reliably to the size of a dog. Separating dogs simply by size does not address the underlying issue of temperament. And what, exactly, is the plan for medium-sized dogs? Creating arbitrary categories raises more questions than it answers.
Winslow Park (Photo/Ron Henkin)
The proposed location raises additional practical concerns. It does not have convenient parking or a readily available water supply. That makes the location particularly inconvenient for dog owners who want to come to the park to walk and exercise with their dogs. The very feature that makes Winslow Park successful — the opportunity for people and dogs to move through and enjoy a larger natural setting — would be diminished by directing users into a fenced enclosure.
Enclosed dog areas can also become soiled quickly, creating sanitation and maintenance concerns. Concentrating numerous unfamiliar dogs in a confined space can produce tension and conflicts that are less likely to occur when dogs have room to move and interact naturally. These are unnecessary issues to introduce into a park system that currently provides a spacious and natural alternative.
I was a Westport resident when the park was acquired decades ago. A similar proposal was considered around that time by the Parks & Recreation Commission and was rejected. This commission should be cautious about revisiting a proposal that was previously determined to be unnecessary, particularly when the existing system continues to function effectively.
The Winslow Park dog community.
Furthermore, approximately half of Winslow Park remains an area where dogs are required to be leashed. This provides substantial space for residents and visitors who prefer not to encounter unleashed dogs.
Finally, I would strongly oppose any effort to commercialize the proposed fenced area or restrict its use to Westport residents. Such a policy would be discriminatory and unnecessarily unfriendly to people from neighboring communities. Visitors who come to Westport with their dogs are not simply users of our parks; they are also customers of our restaurants, retail stores, and other local businesses. Westport benefits from being a welcoming community, and we should not adopt policies that unnecessarily exclude or stigmatize people who live outside our borders.
Additionally, the enforcement mechanism being proposed by the proponents introduces a new regulatory framework that imposes a cost and logistical burden on residents and non-residents alike.
The commission should preserve what already works well, rather than create an expensive, restrictive facility to address a problem that has not been identified. Winslow Park currently offers something difficult to replicate: a place where people can walk, exercise, enjoy nature, socialize and spend quality time with their dogs, while still providing ample space for those who prefer leashed dogs. It is one of Westport’s assets that helps to make our community both unique and a special place to live.
For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Commission to reject Text Amendment #874, and preserve the existing, successful arrangement at Winslow Park.
(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribution, please click here.)
Tonight’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (6 p.m., Zoom) includes discussion of a text amendment that would permit a fenced dog area to be located within a park,
Emme Dorfman — a rising senior at Staples High School — helped devise the plan. Today, she shares background on how the idea began, and where it stands now. She hopes too to clear up some misconceptions. She writes:
I first came up with the idea for a fenced-in dog area at Winslow Park last year, as a junior. For my Rhetoric & Persuasion class, I wrote a speech about why I thought Westport could benefit from having a secure area where dogs could run off leash.
I have 2 dogs. When we take them to Winslow, we are always a little nervous that one could get away.
After the class ended, I decided I wanted to pursue the idea. I connected with Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member Andrew Colabella, who had also been working to bring a fenced-in dog area to Westport.
Winslow Park. Compo Road North is at the bottom. The Park extends further to the south (left), toward the Post Road.
I was probably a little naive at first, maybe because of my age and lack of experience with town government. I thought the idea was pretty simple: Winslow is a large park, so why not fence in a portion of it, giving residents and non-residents the option of using a secure off-leash area if that works better for them and their dogs?
We initially proposed an area at the south end of Winslow. After presenting the idea at a Parks & Recreation Commission meeting, it became clear that many regular Winslow users really value that particular meadow. and that some neighbors across Compo Road also had concerns. While we know there will probably never be a location that everyone agrees on, we heard those concerns and began looking at alternatives.
I also want to clarify that the original south end location was the basis for the survey Mark Mathias conducted and has been shared with so many people.
Since then the proposal has changed, which we will share at the next Parks & Recreation meeting. A few weeks ago, Andrew and I met with David Floyd (Parks & Rec chair).
We discussed a possible location on the opposite end of the park, closer to the Compo parking lot and by Post Road. We think this could address many of the concerns we heard. because it would not interfere with the meadow or the way most people currently use Winslow. It would simply be an additional option for dog owners who want or need a secure place for their dogs to exercise. Nothing is official; we are just exploring other options.
One possible location for the fenced-in area: a section near Compo Road North and the Post Road (behind trees in the photo above). It is currently little used by dogs and walkers.
Because of this, I think it is important to recognize that some of the people currently speaking out based on the survey may be responding to information about a proposal that is no longer being considered.
This project is about giving people options. People who love using Winslow exactly as they do today should continue to do that. No one would be required to use the fenced area or change the way they enjoy the rest of the park.
For residents and non-residents who want or need a secure off-leash option, we think there should be one available. We also believe convenience and accessibility for the people and dogs who would use the area are important considerations, alongside aesthetics.
My grandfather is 80 and can’t easily walk around Winslow, but he would love to be able to get out of his car, bring his dog into a secure area, and let him run and get the exercise he needs. My sister recently hurt her knee playing soccer, but she can still enjoy being there with them if they have a secure place to play.
I also understand that some people have raised the point that Winslow is officially considered a park, rather than a “dog park.” But dogs are already clearly part of how Winslow is used. At the entrance there are dog waste bags, a dog water fountain, and signage specifically addressing dogs and their use of the park. Regardless of the official terminology, Winslow already accommodates people using the park with their dogs. We are simply proposing an additional option within that existing use.
We have also adjusted other parts of our original proposal based on feedback. For example, we initially discussed a key-fob access system. We heard concerns about that, so we are no longer proposing it. Instead, the idea would be for dog owners to have the appropriate vaccination and rabies documentation through the town registration process.
Enforcement has also been raised as a concern. That is something we would continue discussing with the dog warden, who we have spoken with, and the town. The fenced area would have clearly posted rules, and users would be expected to behave responsibly, clean up after their dogs, respect other users and follow those rules, just as people are expected to do throughout Winslow today.
I also wanted to clear up one misconception. My mom was at Winslow today and spoke with people who were circulating a petition. She was told that some people are concerned that the entire park could eventually be fenced in. That has never been part of our proposal. We are proposing one designated fenced-in area within Winslow. As information gets passed from person to person, details can understandably get confused, which is one reason I wanted to send this update.
Additionally, no changes would be made to the on-leash versus off-leash areas. Those rules would remain the same.
(Photo/Mark Mathias)
We haven’t been providing many updates this summer because when we spoke with Parks & Recreation, we were told that things tend to be quieter during the summer and would pick back up in September. Nothing has been decided behind the scenes.
Our next step is tonight’s Planning & Zoning meeting, where we hope to have a text amendment approved. It would simply allow us to move forward with the process; it does not approve a location or a final dog park plan.
If the text amendment passes, the next step would be to develop and present a specific proposal, including the potential new location, and continue gathering input from everyone — residents and non-residents, people who currently use Winslow, neighbors, and people who may not use Winslow today because they don’t feel comfortable having their dogs off leash.
We would really like to work together as we move forward, so that any future survey reflects the most current proposal, and accurately explains what is and isn’t being considered. We don’t want anyone to feel that their concerns haven’t been heard. Many of the changes we are considering are a direct result of listening to those concerns.
What we’ve learned is that people in opposition may speak up more loudly than the people in support. We understand how important it is to listen, adjust, and try to find a solution that works for as many people as possible.
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It’s mid-August. With many Westporters away, and others’ attention directed more to the beach and barbecue grill than politics, nearly every town board has canceled this month’s meetings.
But not the Planning & Zoning Commission. They’ve got too much on their plate.
This Monday (6 p.m., Zoom), they’ll discuss a proposal for lights on the Wakeman turf field next to Bedford Middle School, and PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary. The special permit request must be closed by August 21.
Before that item, the P&Z will consider a pre-application for the development of 606 Riverside Avenue — the site bordered by Railroad Place and Charles Street, where Spinnaker is proposing 175 apartments (and one retail space), with 283 parking spots. The Architectural Review Board heard a pre-app last month.
Click here, then scroll down for all meeting materials. For Wakeman Field, search for “70 North Avenue.” For PJ Romano Field, look for “170 Riverside Avenue.” For Spinnaker’s Saugatuck plans, click on “606 Riverside Avenue.”
PJ Romano Field
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Turnout was low for yesterday’s primaries. Just 16.9% of registered Westport voters cast ballots (9.8% in person yesterday, 5.2% early, 1.9% absentee).
Democrats renominated Governor Ned Lamont for a 3rd term. He beat Josh Elliott here, 1,402 to 236 (85.6% to 14.4%). Statewide, his margin was 67.9% to 32.1%.
Republicans chose Michael Goldstein to challenge Congressman Jim Himes for the 4th District seat, in a rematch of 2024. He won Westport over Daniel Miressi, 184 votes (72.4%) to 70 (27.6%). Those totals were very close to the entire district.
It was a quiet election. There was little buzz, few mailers, not even a yard sign.
Quiet scene at Saugatuck Elementary School. (Photo/Samira Dinkin)
A few Westporters who wanted to cast ballots yesterday found it difficult. Dr. Norman Klein writes:
“Those of us who vote at Long Lots School Elementary School had been sent notices to vote at Bedford Middle School, given the enormous construction at Long Lots.
“Upon arrival (in a desolate parking lot), the school was closed. I called the town Registrar of Voters. We had some contretemps. She claimed having sent a postcard (likely looking like so much of our junk mail) changing the venue back to Long Lots.
“I am fastidious about all my USPS mail. I never saw it; neither did multitudes. Bedford’s double doors had only one small sign at the far right, saying “No voting here today.”
“So at Long Lots — I may have actually heard crickets — I voted.
“The polling people and I had some exchanges about my sole presence being ‘the crush of voters’ (10 a.m.). So this anomalous situation resulted in even fewer voters in a mid-summer primary. Happily, I figure my single vote now counts perhaps 20x.
“I hold deep respect and gratitude to these front-line volunteers who stand sentry on the battlements of this fraught time, where our democracy is headed to life support. But I’m just sayin’…”
Voting, in the dog days of summer. (Photo/Jo Shields)
One of the coolest opportunities anywhere is the Westport Police Department’s 9-week Citizens’ Police Academy.
Through classroom instruction, demonstrations, hands-on activities and direct interaction with department personnel, participants gain a first-hand understanding of what our officers do, how they do it, and how the WPD fits into our community.
At the same time, residents and officers get to know each other much better.
25 community members — of a variety of ages and backgrounds — receive an inside look at the WPD’s divisions and specialized units, including patrol operations, criminal investigations, emergency response, and other law enforcement functions. Participants will do a patrol ride-along, and receive Stop the Bleed training.
Instructors include officers, attorneys from Stamford Superior Court, and members of Westport Emergency Medical Services.
The program runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from September 8 through November 10.
The academy is open to Westport residents age 21 and older. Applications can be picked up at police headquarters, and are due by August 21. Questions? Email jcabana@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-6026.
Westport’s Citizens Police Academy offers an inside look into every aspect of the department.
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Madison Square Garden is not the Levitt Pavilion.
But 2 days after playing that famed New York venue, the Revivalists took the Westport stage.
And gave the crowd of nearly 2,000 people a high-energy, rockin’ performance just as if they were 20,000 strong.
The Revivalists (Photo/Dave Briggs)
The Levitt’s summer of entertainment continues this week, with 5 free shows. They include:
Today (Wednesday), 7 p.m.: Joanie Lewis (Children’s Series)
Thursday, 7 p.m.: Improvement Movement with Memo
Friday, 7 p.m.: Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez, featuring The Sin Sisters & Guests
Saturday, 7:30 p.m.: Logical Pretzel — The Songs of Steely Dan
The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot a week from tomorrow (Thursday, August 20), for a session covering “Tips for Resumes and Cover Letters.”
It returns September 17, for “Interview Success.”
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
And finally … Arlene Smith, the lead singer and songwriter of the Chantels, whose powerful vocal on “Maybe” helped start the “girl group” doo-wop wave in the 1950s, and influenced many others like the Ronettes, Shirelles and Shangri-Las — died last month in the Bronx, of a heart attack. She was 84.
With many Westporters out of town in the final days before school resumes, most boards have canceled meetings.
Not the Planning & Zoning Commission.
And their August 17 meeting (6 p.m., Zoom) is nothing to sniff at.
They’ll consider a text amendment submitted by Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella. He explains, “The text amendment would allow a form of recreation to be conducted on designated open space where active leisurely use already occurs, providing the option for a fenced dog area to be located within a park.
“It is important to understand that this is not an approval of a specific dog park or a final site plan. Rather, it is a change to the zoning regulations that would permit the use to be considered. Any specific proposal would still be subject to additional public review and approvals.
“The P&Z is not being asked to decide whether Winslow Park should have a dog run. It is being asked whether the zoning regulations should allow a fenced dog area as a permitted recreational use on designated open space where active recreational uses are already appropriate. The merits and details of any specific location remain separate questions.”
Colabella and student Emme Dorfman have designed a concept, and been given an OK for their pre-app.
“The concept will either be supported or rejected by the Parks & Recreation Commission, and is within respect to outside expert analysis by the Parks Master Plan to be located at Winslow, after carefully reviewing all viable parks and town properties throughout Westport,” Colabella adds.
Westport resident Mark Mathias says that, according to Planning & Zoning director Michelle Perillie, the P&Z can either keep the matter open or close it.
If they vote to approve — either that night or at a later meeting — the petitioners must submit an 8-24 Municipal Improvement Request, and Special Permit Site Plan, to the P&Z. The Parks & Recreation Department would also be involved.
Details including exact location, funding, design, and management of the space would still need to be proposed and approved.
Rendering of a possible “Dogport” at Winslow Park.
The 64th annual Westport PAL Chief Samuel Luciano Golf Tournament tees off August 31, at Longshore.
A major fundraiser, proceeds fund the organization’s scholarship program. To register, or join as a sponsor, click here.
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Speaking of the police and scholarships: Classic cars, custom vehicles, local vendors and community members come together this Sunday (August 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) — all in support of a great cause.
The 8th annual Charity Car show (148 East Avenue, Norwalk) benefits the Vincent Penna Scholarship Program for high school students. It honors the memory of the late deputy chief of the Westport Police Department.
Sunday’s event — hosted by the Italian American Police Society — includes a raffle with over $35,000 in prizes, donated by more than 100 sponsors. They include automotive parts and accessories, tools, gift certificates and specialty items.
Vincent Penna Jr.
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Speaking (still) of sports: TOPSoccer — the program for youngsters with physical or learning differences — returns for another season.
Blake Serotta — a rising sophomore player at Staples — leads the program, in conjunction with the Weston Soccer Club and Westport Soccer Association.
TOPSoccer is open to boys and girls in grades K-8. It runs Saturdays, 11;30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., from September 12 through November 7 at Morehouse Farm Park in Weston.
The program includes fun games, drills, and small-sided games. Each child is paired with a buddy, who stays with them on the field. High schoolers are welcome as volunteers and buddies.
Speaking yet again of sports: Congratulations to Northeast Elite Water Polo Club.
The Westport-based youth program won the 14U Boys Gold Division championship at the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics, the nation’s largest youth water polo tournament, in Dallas.
It was not easy. The team lost their first 3 tourney games, before rallying to win 5 straight. They finished with 74 goals in 8 matches, over 5 days.
Northeast Elite was founded in 2024 by Staples High School coach Danilo Sierra-Giraldo, and Kade Ramirez-Zimmerman. Winning players include Julian Urist, Alexander Vandenberg, Sagan Feder, Sascha Bowtell, Oliver Melnichok, Yash Mani Lorenzato, Calvin Jahansouz, Santos Infantino, Ben Scanlon, Cullen Shope, Aaron Bhuyan and Joshua Smith.
The curtain has fallen on the last show of the Westport Country Playhouse’s 2025-26 season.
But the stage is set for more entertainment.
“Cruel Summer” — a live band playing the music of Ariana Grande, Olivia Dean, Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter and more — rocks the theater on Friday, August 28 (7 p.m.).
Taylor Swift will not be at the Westport Country Playhouse this month. But her music will be.
Westporter Peter Van Heerden took the helm of Pequot Library a little over 4 months ago.
But he’s already infused new energy into the 132-year-old institution, and forged community partnerships and collaborations.
One example: On September 10 (7 p.m.), Broadway legend and area resident James Naughton joins Mia Dillon, Jill Eikenberry and Michael Tucker for a reading of historic documents tied to the Declaration of Independence. A Q-and-A follows. Click here for details. and to register.
On September 25 (7 p.m.), Naughton and friends return for a Closing Exhibition Celebration featuring another reading, Q-and-A, and a live band performance. Tickets ($50 per person) support exhibition programming. Click here for details.
And on September 19, the Pequot’s benefit features the famed Paul Taylor Dance Company. Limited to 300 attendees, the event launches the library’s new Summer Stage plan to bring top-tier talent to the region. Tickets start at $100, and sponsorships are available. Click here for details.
At 8 a.m. the Sunday before last, Kristin Mott Purcell was already hard at work.
The Soundview Summer Stroll was 2 hours away. In the months before, the Compo Beach resident had already arranged for permits and a police officer; served as a liaison with the Parks & Recreation Department; helped arrange bands and kids’ activities; posted signs, and taken care of dozens of other details that would bring smiles to the faces to a few thousand visitors to her neighborhood.
Now she was setting up tents, marking spots for 20 non-profit organizations, and troubleshooting music and food issues.
In between she found time to water the planters that brighten up (and slow traffic down on) the beach exit road a few yards from her home.
It was all in a morning’s work for the always-smiling, ever-volunteering longtime Compo resident. (Not coincidentally, she represents the area — and all of District 1 — on the Representative Town Meeting.)
Kristin Mott Purcell
The Compo Beach Improvement Association is one of the sponsors of the Soundview Stroll (along with “06880). But in reality, Kristin is the CBIA.
She’s been a stalwart of the 100-year-old organization, keeping it running at a time of diminishing volunteers. She serves as treasurer. She helps organize the end-of-summer party. And then there are those planters …
If a job needs doing, Kristin does it. And if she’s doing it, it’s done the right way. (But always with a smile.)
Kristin Mott Purcell (left), with Deborah Webb and Michelle Cardello, at the festive start of Soundview Drive. They help ensure it always looks good.
Kristin was an early and driving force behind the creation of the Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum, adjacent to Earthplace. She helped lead the drive to put holiday lights on the Cribari Bridge, when Al DiGuido stepped away after 25 years. She joined other RTM members planting tulips at the Minute Man monument.
All that is in addition to her full-time, “real” job. Kristin founded Amberlake Capital, an outsourced marketing and investor relations partner to emerging and established investment managers.
I’m sure I’m missing a few — probably more than a few — other activities that Kristin is part of.
That’s because she does not go around touting her work. She just does it — quietly, efficiently, effectively.
And always with a smile.
Those Soundview Stroll tents did not put themselves up. Or take themselves down.
It took Kristin Mott Purcell to do it. Which is why she is “06880”‘s Unsung Herof the Week.
And every other one too.
Last Friday, Kristin Mott Purcell’s (center) husband Terry, daughters and friends threw a surprise birthday party for her. The site was (of course) Compo Beach.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. “06880” is proud to honor them — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to help us do that, by supporting this hyper-local blog.)
First Selectman Kevin Christie is seeking registered Westport voters to serve on the town’s appointed boards, commissions and committees.
The most immediate need: the Flood & Erosion Control Board. They lack a quorum, making it difficult to act on matters affecting the community. Residents interested in flood resilience, coastal management, environmental stewardship, engineering, planning or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Members of most of Westport’s non-elected boards, commissions and committees are appointed by the first selectman.
The town welcomes volunteers from all professions, backgrounds, life experiences and political affiliations interested in contributing time and expertise to the community.
In addition to the immediate need for Flood & Erosion Control Board members, these agencies have vacancies or upcoming term expirations
A representative is also needed for the Aquarion Water Authority Representative Policy Board. With representatives from each municipality in Aquarion’s service area, it is responsible for approving water rates and overseeing key aspects of the Authority’s governance.
Board and commission opportunities may be appealing to residents with experience in architecture, construction, engineering, environmental sciences, housing, finance or public policy.
Prior board or committee experience is not required. Anyone interested in learning more about town government, participating in public service, and contributing thoughtful perspectives is encouraged to apply.
“Westport has long benefited from residents who generously volunteer their time and talents in service to the community,” Christie says.
“Whether you bring professional expertise or simply a desire to get involved, I encourage you to consider serving on one of our boards or commissions. Your voice and perspective can help shape the future of our community.”
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
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Members of most of Westport’s non-elected boards, commissions and committees are appointed by the first selectman.
