Category Archives: Real estate

Roundup: Doors’ Densmore, Sales Stats, Playground Plans …

Posted on April 7, 2024 | 3 comments

Standing room only crowds got up-close (and very personal) insights into the music world of the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s yesterday, at the Westport Library.

The 4th day of Verso Fest featured conversations with record producer Tony Visconti, and Doors drummer John Densmore.

Chatting with WFUV’s Paul Cavalconte, Visconti offered behind-the-scenes insights into his Grammy Award-winning work with David Bowie, Marc Bolan, Paul McCartney and many more.

Tony Visconti (left) and Paul Cavalconte, on the Library stage.

Topics of Densmore’s conversation with CNN’s Alisyn Camarota included “Light My Fire,” Jim Morrison’s brilliance and self-destructiveness, and the rift among the surviving members over licensing music rights to advertisers (the drummer was opposed).

He also noted how difficult it was to explain “The End” to his parents.

Densmore — who accompanied himself on an African drum and other percussion instruments — spoke fondly of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band, and gave a shout-out to the ’60s.

John Densmore and Alisyn Camerota.

The decade, he said, “planted the seeds for so much good, like civil rights and women’s rights. But seeds can take 100 years to grow. Stop dissing the ’60s — and get out your watering can.”

Among other events yesterday: an all-day record fair.

“Record riot” sales at VersoFest. (All photos/Dan Woog)

Vinyl and CD sales continue today — the finale of VersoFest ’24.

On the schedule:

  • Connecticut, WPLR, and the Birth of Buckingham/Nicks Era Fleetwood Mac (11 a.m.)
  • Mind Your Business: Legal Workshop with Marcus Thomas (Sunday, April 7, 11 a.m.)
  • Video Game Composing with Tom Salta (Sunday, April 7, 12:30 p.m.)
  • Glam to Punk — A Fashion Roundtable: Alice Cooper, Bowie, Blondie and Beyond, with Cindy Dunaway and Tish & Snooky (Manic Panic); special guest Dennis Dunaway, moderated by Christine Ohlman (1 p.m.)
  • Unlock the Secrets of Radio Airplay for Emerging Artists with Peter Gray (Sunday, April 7, 2 p.m.)
  • 51 Years of “Wild Style,” the 1st Hip Hop Motion Picture (3 p.m.)
  • Exhibit: Thinking Inside the Box, multi-media art installation (all day)
  • Diamond Dogs at 50, David Bowie Exhibit by Paul Brenton with designer Mark Ravitz (all day)

Click here for details.

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The first quarter of 2024 is in the real estate books.

As shared by our friends at KMS Team at Compass, the number of Westport sales (46) is down 13%, compared to the same quarter in 2023.

However, the total volume of single family home sales — $113,835,000 — is down only 1% over the first quarter last year.

The median sales price, meanwhile — $1,850,00 is up 14% year over year. 

Inventory remains scarce, contributing to the reduced number of sales.

Homes for sale over $3 million have been on the market considerably longer (52 days) than those in the $1.4 to $2 million range (18 days).

Right now, 35 homes for sale are listed for $3 million or more. Eight homes are in the $2 to $2.99 million range; 8 are between $1,4 and $1.99 million. Just 4 are listed for under $1.4 million.

The lowest priced home for sale is at 18 Roseville Road ($660,000). The most expensive home is 50 Compo Mill Cove. The asking price $13,500,000.

18 Roseville Road

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The Compo Beach Playground Renovation Committee presents their proposed plan to the Parks & Recreation Commission this Thursday (April 11, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

The meeting will be livestreamed on www.westportct.gov, and broadcast on Optimum Channel 79.  

Click on or hover over the image below, to see the latest plan.

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Westporter Randy Herbertson sits on the advisory board for Voces8 Foundation, a UK-based global chamber music organization. Their 2 ensembles, Voces8 and Apollo5, had over 50 million views on YouTube alonelast year.

Their US-based all-women’s group, Lyyra, is currently touring.

Voces 8’s mission is to use music to support STEAM learning, to students worldwide. They’ve set up “music hubs” in select American cities. They visit several times a year for workshops with students, culminating in performances with the students and ensemble. They always include underserved schools, and those with well-developed programs.

The goal is to establish a music hub in Fairfield County, based at the Westport Library. Donors will underwrite it.

Herbertson is helping plan a program with Staples, Greenwich and Wilton High Schools.

With a combined choir of over 80 young singers, Voces8 and Lyyra did an initial workshop last month at the Library.

Next up: a full performance (April 23, 7 p.m., Trefz Forum). Click here for tickets.

Herbertson is hosting a reception at his 56 Church Lane studio on Saturday, April 20 (5:30 p.m.). Anyone interested in attending to meet founder Paul Smith and Lyyra should email randy@thevisualbrand.com.

The next day (April 21, 5 p.m.) Lyyra performs at Christ & Holy Trinity Church. Click here for tickets.

Voces8 workshop at the Westport Library.

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We’re not sure of the connection between tomorrow’s eclipse, and the importance of buying art.

But this intriguing sign can be seen outside Westport River Gallery, on Riverside Avenue at Post Road West:

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Ellen Wentworth snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” shot in her Highland Road yard.

In the words of the old song, he was only passin’ through.

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … John Densmore’s conversation yesterday at VersoFest ranged from the monster success of “Light My Fire” …

… and the jazz influences of “Touch Me” …

… to the awkward moment when he had to explain “The End” to his parents.

Densmore also said he really liked José Feliciano’s completely different version of “Light My Fire” — probably without knowing that the international superstar lives just a couple of miles away, in Weston.

(Want to light “06880”‘s fire? Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Library, Local business, Local politics, Real estate

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Real Estate Commissions: Behind The Settlement

Posted on March 31, 2024 | 8 comments

Earlier this month, the National Association of Realtors agreed to a historic deal that could change the entire industry. It eliminates the standard 6% sales commission.

We asked our friends at KMS Team at Compass for their thoughts. They say:

Since the March 15 announcement of the proposed settlement of lawsuits
against the National Association of Realtors, assessments of its impact on
commission rates and even home prices have been making headlines.

Right now, we know three things:

First, beyond the 1.5 million Realtors in the United States, millions of
people are interested in or passionate about real estate, fueling
interpretations and predictions about the impact of this proposal. It is all
speculation until the Department of Justice opines on the settlement offer.

Second, real estate is local. Buying and selling of homes is conducted
differently throughout the United States.

In Connecticut, for example, Buyer Brokerage Contracts were first introduced in 1990, which was among the earliest in the nation.

Agreements, now titled Exclusive Right to Represent Buyer, are required to provide clarity of services a buyer can expect from us and transparency regarding our fees.

Third, commission rates are and always have been negotiable in Fairfield
County. While discount brokerage models have existed for some time, our
community has embraced professional, full-service representation.

This 5-bedroom, 5 1/2-bathroom house at 50 Compo Mill Cove is on the market for $13,500,000. It is 3,915 square feet, on 0.39 acre.

As part of the proposed litigation settlement, NAR plans to modify certain
practices. For example, sellers may, but will not be required to, offer a
commission to the buyer’s representative. Any such offer will not be
included in its Multiple Listing Services.

We believe this may change how agents are compensated for representing home buyers. But the underlying reasons why they are compensated remain.

Like many real estate agents in town, the KMS Team at Compass is and has always been client-focused.

We all see ourselves as partners in achieving clients’ real estate goals. We do everything in our power to find buyers a home — a place where they feel comfortable physically, emotionally, and financially.

To achieve this we ask about, listen to, empathize with and anticipate our
clients’ needs and wants.

We search, evaluate, compare and present properties, and explain their towns/neighborhoods. We offer suggestions, propose alternatives, and recommend competent, trustworthy professionals for all
house-adjacent needs.

We handle paperwork, answer questions, and attend to details. We are on call nearly 24/7/365 for our clients.

(“06880” covers Westport real estate — and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Real estate

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Real Estate: Age And Size Matter

Posted on March 16, 2024 | 3 comments

Real estate statistics for the first 2 months of 2024 are in.

The market has definitely cooled. Every number is down from January-February 2023: number of sales (29, down 22%); median sale ($1,850,000, down 14%); average percentage over asking price (2.73%, down 5); total volume ($72,027,500, down 7%); number of new listings (72, down 24%).

But our friends at KMS Team at Compass have done a deeper dive into the figures.

They looked at 2 areas: the number of sales by the age of homes sold, compared to the number of bedrooms.

During the first 2 months, 2 homes built before 1900 were sold. One had 3 bedrooms; the other, 4.

Three homes built between 1900 and 1950 sold. Two had 4 bedrooms; the third had just 2.

The smallest home to sell in Westport so far this year was a 986-square foot, 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home on Morningside Lane. Built in 1939 on 0.3 acres, it went for $850,000.

The most number of sold homes — 7 — were built between 1950 and 1970. Six had 4 bedrooms; one had 3.

Of the 5 homes that were built between 1970 and 1990, three had 4 bedrooms; the others had 5.

Four homes built between 1990 and 2010 sold. Two had 5 bedrooms; the others had 4 and 6 each.

One 5-bedroom home built between 2010 and 2020 sold; so did a 7-bedroom home.

Of the 6 homes that were built after 2020, 5 had 6 bedrooms; the other had 4.

While it’s obvious that newer homes have more bedrooms, that’s a bit counter-intuitive. After all, the average family size has decreased over time. 

The difference is that today nearly every child has their own room. There are more guest rooms and nanny quarters too. 

The most expensive home sold in Westport so far this year — on Hidden Hill Road, near Compo Beach — fetched $5,750,000. Built in 2014 on 0.83 acres, its 10,061 square feet includes 7 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms. 

The median age of US housing stock is 44 years old. Westport’s is older: around 60 years (based on tax records).

By and large, our KMS friends say, Westporters value history. Yet they still appreciate — and can afford — the comforts of the 21st century.

That’s why many older homes have been renovated or enlarged to serve today’s lifestyle. More than 50% of all Westport homes built before 1950 now have 4 or more bedrooms, as evidence of this.

Buyers who want charm and appreciate old world detail and graciousness in a house seek out older homes.

They have often restored a residence in the past. or grew up in a house like these. They want the same feeling for their young family.

Some are buyers from Manhattan and Brooklyn. Others are already Westporters who have fallen in love with a specific neighborhood or street. They like the nostalgic feel. Some are downsizing into antique homes, as empty nesters.

Our friends at KMS Team included another chart, comparing the number of bedrooms to square footage.

The 2-bedroom home that sold in the first 2 months of 2024 was 986 square feet. The 3-bedroom home was 1,749.

The averages for 4-bedroom homes was 3,282 square feet; 5-bedrooms, 4,880, and 6-bedrooms, 8,136.

The average square footage for all 29 homes that sold this year is 4,611.

This 2,162-squre foot Compo Road South house is smaller than the average 4-bedrooom home that’s been selling. With 2.5 bathrooms on 0.4 acre, it was purchased for $1.125 million last month.

The huge jump in square footage from 5 bedroom homes to 6 bedrooms (almost all built from 2020 on) is telling, KMS says.

“Finished on 4 levels,” or showcasing finished basements that serve as second family rooms and recreation areas, is common in this type of new build.

Newer and larger homes with 6 or more bedrooms are in high demand by people who need the space.

They have frequent visitors — family and friends — and often several children. One or more family members work from home, and require office space.

Busy professionals seek “move-in ready.” That trumps all.

Move-in ready is important for those seeking homes in the middle, post-1950 build too. Updated mechanicals, kitchens and baths go far. Buyers are willing to tackle the cosmetics, but few want to go through a full restoration.

For more information on sales of Westport homes, click here, then scroll down. A series of charts illustrates housing trends, by size.

This chart shows the inventory of homes for sale in February of 2022, ’23 and ’24, based on square footage. Click on or hover over to enlarge.

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Roundup: Beach Sticker Sales, Saugatuck Apartments, Leonard Everett Fisher Memorial …

Posted on March 6, 2024 | 6 comments

It’s a sure sign of summer: Beach parking emblems go on sale online, and in the Westport Parks & Recreation Department office, at 9 a.m. next Monday (March 11) for Westport and Weston residents. The number of sales to Westport and Weston residents is not limited, and they are not required until May 1.

Sales of emblems to people not living in Westport or Weston begin online, and in the Parks & Rec office, at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 13. A limit of 450 will be sold.

If you have purchased emblems or registered for Parks & Rec programs in prior seasons, you already have an online account established. Click here to log into your account. Then choose memberships; in the search box, type “Resident.” This brings all Westport resident vehicle packages to the top page. Weston residents should type “Weston” in search box.

After verification (Parks & Rec may request a copy of your current registration, or updated proof of residency), online purchases will be mailed to you. It may take 14-21 days.

Office hours are weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Questions? Email recreation@westportct.gov.

(Photo/Mark Marcus)

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Construction will begin soon on Summit Saugatuck’s 157-unit housing complex, on Hiawatha Lane Extension.

But residents of the neighborhood got a bit of relief recently, when plans for a 5-story, 42-unit affordable housing development nearby were withdrawn.

Cathy Walsh, applicant for the project and former Planning and Zoning Commission chair, withdrew the application last month, CT Insider reports.

However, the reprieve may be temporary. She said that she and Faustina Zucaro — owner of the property — will resubmit it later. Further details on the withdrawal or new submission were not available. Click here for the full story.

Plans for this 5-story, 42-unit housing complex have been withdrawn.

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Many readers have asked about funeral services for Leonard Everett Fisher. The noted illustrator, longtime Westport volunteer and World War II veteran died last weekend, at 99.

His family says there will be no immediate service. However, they look forward to a public celebration of his life life close to or on his 100th birthday in June.

“06880” will provide details when they are finalized.

Leonard Everett Fisher (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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Connecticut’s presidential primary election is April 2.

But with the state finally embracing early voting, Westporters have 4 options besides that date to vote.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The only polling place is Town Hall. Do not go to your regular poll location!

Town Hall is open for early voting on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, March 26-30 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (though not Good Friday, March 29), and on April 2 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For information regarding the primary, including how to vote by absentee ballot, click here.

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WestportMoms’ 3rd annual Easter Egg Hunt is so big, there will be 2 of them.

The Saturday, March 23 event at Long Lots Elementary School (11:45 a.m. for ages 2-5; 12:30 p.m., kids 6+) includes art projects, cookie decorating, prizes, face painting, food trucks, games and more.

Bring the whole family, tell your friends, and come have fun with us!

Tickets are $20 per family. Click here to purchase.

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In 2005 I wrote and published “Staples High School: 120 Years of A+ Education.”

1,000 copies of the 390-page history of the school were printed. All sold, but a second printing was not financially viable.

From time to time, they show up on eBay. They usually cost about $75. (The original was $20.)

But the other day, proud 1992 Staples grad Evan Stein spotted a copy with an eye-popping price: $288.99.

“It must be autographed,” he said.

I’m not sure how the seller came up with that figure. But it’s perfect for anyone who would never pay $289 for a history of a high school.

The cheap edition of my Staples history book is in the upper left corner on eBay. The deluxe one is at the right.

FUN STAPLES HISTORY FACTOIDS:

  • The first graduating class was just 6 students. All were girls.
  • Wilbur Cross — future Yale professor, Connecticut governor and parkway namesake — was the second principal of Staples High School.
  • In the 1930s, Staples sponsored 2 rifle teams: one for boys, one for girls.
  • In 1954, Staples was the first Connecticut school to offer an Advanced Placement (AP) class.
  • In the 1970s, Staples was a national Ultimate Frisbee leader.
  • In 2001, senior Mariangela won both the Siemens Westinghouse Science and Technology Competition and the Intel Science Talent Search. Each carried a $100,000 scholarship prize.

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Speaking of Staples: The high school has announced the names of its 20 high honors graduates, in the Class of 2024.

They are the seniors whose academic grade point average is in the top 4% of the class.

The high honors students will be celebrated this spring, at a special dinner at the school. They are:

Front row, from left: Connor Ng, Ellen Ou, Kaitlyn Seo, Kathryn Asiel, Defne Merih, Gabriela de Brito, Leigh Foran, Emerson Briggs, Neva Mermagen, Mabel Propper. Back row: Peter Loranger, Darren Weng, Gabriel Weng, Dyan Fiore, Courtlyn Crombie, Elizabeth Turner, Jeremy Rosenkranz, Eitan Eiger, Jameson Russell,  Andrew Berkowitz.

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More Staples news: The boys golf team hopes to organizes an alumni golf outing in mid to late July, with an informal tailgate to follow.

Interested Staples golf alums should email the current coaches: Pcaligiure@westportps.org and  dmaxwell@westportps.org.

You can follow Staples boys golf on Instagram (@staplesboysgolf).

Staples boys golf team.

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More sports news:

Williams College is going to the NCAA D-III men’s basketball round of 16.

And they’re headed to Greensboro, North Carolina thanks to a Greens Farms Academy graduate.

Cole Prowitt-Smith finished a driving, double-clutch layup with less than 1 second to go last weekend, leading the Ephs to a dramatic 79-77 win at #5 Oswego State. It capped a 27-point night for the 6-4 senior. (His father, Scott Smith, writes frequently for “06880” on environmental issues.)

Williams faces Christopher Newport University on Friday.

Cole Prowitt-Smith

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Westport is proud of its rainbow crosswalk, on Jesup Road at Taylor Place.

Now, to make the area even more colorful, Westport Pride — the town’s LGBTQ organization — has joined the Parks & Recreation Department’s Adopt-a-Spot program.

Partnering with Tuliptree Site Design, a gay-owned, Norwalk-based design firm, Westport Pride is installing a pollinator pathway garden along the 100-foot Jesup Road median.

The garden will include native wildflowers, adding both color and a a habitat for native species downtown. Flowers will include daffodils, lupine, coneflower, primrose, coreopsis, spiked gayfeather, cornflower, daisies, poppy, phlox, butterfly milkweed and yarrow. The design will also incorporate spring bulbs

Planting was completed on Monday.

Tuliptree design director Michael Mushak and Westport Pride chair Brian McGunagle, at the rainbow crosswalk and pollinator pathway.

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If you haven’t been to an Artists Collective of Westport pop-up gallery, you’re missing great shows.

The next one is March 13-17 (1 to 5 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse Sheffer Barn).

The opening reception — always packed and buzzing — is March 12 (6 to 8 p.m.). Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Mark Naftalin will entertain on piano.

An artists’ talk is set for March 17 (4 p.m.).

Participating artists include Trace Burroughs, Linn Cassetta, Beatrice delPerugia, Charles Douthat, Cecilia Moy Fradet, Ronnie Gold, Ning Jia, David Stephen Johnson, Maj Kalfus, Karen Kalkstein, Robert Meyer and Jen Williams.

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“Footloose The Musical” dances onto the Coleytown Middle School stage next month Tickets for the Coleytown Company show go on sale Friday.

The show — a stage and screen favorite for its celebration of youth, forgiveness and the power of music — is set for Friday, April 5 (7 p.m.), Saturday, April 6 (1 p.m. and 7 p.m.), and Sunday, April 7 (1 p.m.).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The star of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is a pileated woodpecker. Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted him hard at work, outside the Senior Center:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … Today in 1836, a 13-day siege by an army of 3,000 Mexican troops ended when 187 Texas volunteers defending the Alamo were killed. The fort was captured.

(“06880” is your hyper-local, reader-supported blog. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Real estate, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: 29 Danbury Avenue, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Fencing …

Posted on March 4, 2024 | 8 comments

Next up on the chopping block: 29 Danbury Avenue.

The 3,145-square foot home with the funky “Beach House” sign, built in 1930, has a demolition permit in front.

It was one of the original summer cottages, later winterized and remodeled for year-round use.

And for sale for a lot more than the first owners paid.

29 Danbury Avenue (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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Nearby, almost-spring-like weather brought the touch football players to Compo Beach yesterday.

It’s a long-standing tradition, whatever the elements. But that whiff of warmth in the air must have felt good.

(Photo/Pam Washburn)

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Of course, no matter what the weather, there’s always time for s’mores.

Nômade provided the “fires” yesterday. And these hungry passersby did the rest.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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Rob Fraboni, Dick Kalt, Crispin Cioe, Miggs Burroughs, Johnny Montagnese, Michael Friedman, Rusty Ford, Jonathan Moorehead and Dick Wingate are all local residents.

And each one has a wealth of stories about the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll.

They’ll tell those tales — about what went on on stage, and off — this Wednesday (March 6, 7 p.m.) at Friedman’s pop-up gallery, 31 Church Lane.

(He’s the photographer who found a trove of images — lost for 50 years — and turned them into a book.)

There will be wine, beer, snacks — and tons of stories about Dylan, The Band, Springsteen, Joplin, The Beach Boys, The Stones, and many more.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Michael Friedman knew Levon Helm when he was in the Hawks — the band that preceded The Band. The drummer autographed this for Friedman in 2009.

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In all the excitement over the Staples High School boys basketball and girls ice hockey teams, let’s not forget the Staples Fencing Club.

Senior Max Piterbarg won 1st place in his division, and 4 teammates medaled at the Connecticut State Individual Fencing Championship on Saturday in North Haven.

Piterbarg, Peter Loranger and Eric Wilson will compete in the state men’s foil team champions for the third consecutive year, next weekend in Clinton.

Westporter Delphine de Vore — the volunteer coach — leads the co-ed club team. It began 3 years ago. Fencers of all skill levels are welcome; no prior experience or equipment required.

From left: Olivia Zhou, 5th place women’s foil; Eva Slossberg, 5th, women’s epee; Tisha Darmawan, women’s epee; Eric Wilson, 7th, men’s foil; Vasco Peixoto, men’s saber; Max Piterbarg, 1st, men’s foil; Peter Loranger, 3rd, men’s foil; Aidan Goldberg, men’s Foil; Coach Delphine de Vore. Not pictured: Robert Stanton, men’s epee.

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Speaking of sports: The Staples boys basketball team welcomed youth players to the gym yesterday, for a day of fun.

Future Wreckers watched the varsity practice, before Thursday night’s state tournament opening game; participated in a shooting clinic, and heard about what’s ahead when they’re ready for the big time.

Staples basketball players and coaches — and the next generation.

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The Battle of Iwo Jima lasted from February 19 to March 26, 1945.

This Saturday (March 9, 1 p.m.), VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 salutes that decisive Pacific victory by hosting Iwo Jima Association of America Lt. Col. Art Sifuentes, USMC (retired).

Organizers invite the community to come together to honor the brave Marines and Navy men who fought, and displayed extraordinary valor and resilience, on that island.

The iconic image of Iwo Jima.

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A small trash pick-up is set for next Sunday (March 10, 11 a.m.) at Sipperley’s Hill Road (connecting Ford Road and Weston Road). It’s sponsored by VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, and Sons of the American Legion.

Volunteers can park on the road and gather garbage, from top to bottom. Bring your own trash bags, dress warmly, and wear gloves and boots.

Questions? Email Andrew Colabella: acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

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On February 3, New York Times crossword editor entertained a packed Westport Library crowd with his usual wit, puzzles and games, at the 25th annual Crossword Contest.

The next day, he had a stroke.

Yesterday, Will shared a health update at the end of NPR’s Sunday Puzzle. He usually hosts the show.

He said he is recovering, and will be back soon.

Will’s many fans around the world — and especially here in Westport — wish him a speedy recovery.

Will Shortz, interviewing contest champion Glenn Ryan last month. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport resident and longtime Westport Emergency Services volunteer Stewart Reifler died peacefully last Wednesday. He was 69.

The Poughkeepsie native attended McGill University, and graduated from Bard College with a degree in literature. He then graduated magna cum laude from New York Law School, where he received the Law Review Award for Outstanding Editorial Contribution.

Steward became a partner in the law firm of Vedder Price, heading the firm’s executive compensation practice group in its New York office. He edited several editions of the Compensation Committee Handbook.

Stewart was active in many area non-profits. Most recently, he was an active duty EMT with Westport Volunteer EMS, and a member of its board of directors as treasurer.

He was named EMT of the Year in 2 consecutive years. He co-authoring WVEMS’ bylaws and policies, ran their annual fundraiser, and was a regular on the Wednesday morning ambulance crew.

Before becoming an EMT, Stewart was a trustee of the Westport Library. He also served as commodore, treasurer, and member of the Board of Governors of the Minuteman Yacht Club. He enjoyed spending time at the Ned Dimes Marina, and on Long Island Sound with friends.

Outside of Westport he was a board member  of the American Friends of the Franco-American Institute, serving as secretary and treasurer.

His passion for skydiving began in college. After a 25-year break, he picked it back up later in life. He completed over 300 solo jumps.

He also enjoyed summer trips to Tanglewood. His most recent hobby was target shooting, with pistols and rifles. He became an expert in gun safety.

He is survived by his son Jonathan Reifler (Kara Popowich), 2 grandchildren, and his sisters and their spouses, Ellen Reifler (Mark Messenger) and Sylvia Reifler (Chris Christensen). He is also survived by his former wife, Sheryl Vos.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westport Volunteer EMS. To read more about the importance of WVEMS, and their need for funds, click here.

Stewart Reifler

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This handsome creature posed gracefully for our “Westport … Naturally” feature, at Grace Salmon Park.

(Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

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And finally … if you thought today’s featured song would reference Michael Friedman’s upcoming pop-up rock tales event (story above) — specifically, Levon Helm — you’re right!

(Sure, this morning’s lead story was our annual put-out-our-tin-cup request for contributions. Hope you don’t mind this gentle reminder. Please click here to donate. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, History, Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Real Estate Stats: New Neighbors May Be Oldtimers

Posted on March 2, 2024 | Leave a comment

These post-COVID days, I often ask newcomers to Westport where they came from: “Manhattan or Brooklyn?”

Most times, I’m right. It’s like the RTM passed an ordinance, limiting homebuyers to those 2 boroughs.

But a large slice of the real estate pie belongs to people who already live here.

I don’t ask them where they’re coming from, because they’re already here. They’ve just moved from one part of town to another.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass say that last year, 61% of Westport homes were sold to buyers from Connecticut. And many of them were already Westporters.

The most expensive home on the Westport market right now is this 4-bedroom, 5 1/2-bathroom, 8,246-square foot house on 1.35 acres, at 279 Saugatuck Avenue. It’s listed at $12,500,000.

Their reasons vary.

Buyers on Hazelnut Road, for example, wanted more space than their previous home here. Trading up for a pool and room to entertain was important; proximity to schools was a bonus.

New homeowners on Hillspoint Road already lived in the neighborhood. They bought a house they had always admired, when it hit the market.

Sometimes, it’s time for something new. New construction on Maple Avenue North appealed to one clinet.

Others make the jump from renting to buying, as beach residents did with property on nearby Bradley Street.

A growing family wanted a bigger home, but did not want to leave Greens Farms Elementary School. They bought a new home on Center Street.

Empty nesters — no longer needing to live near a school, but with grown children and grandchildren who liked the “vacation” feel of the water — downsized to Saugatuck Shores.

One family wanted to move close to Compo Beach. They explored building a home there, then bought on Soundview Drive when they discovered how expensive new construction would be.

Some downsizers hoping to shed the responsibility of a home, but remain in town, buy condos — new construction like The Mill or Bankside House, or ones that have been in Westport for years, like Harvest Commons, Regents Park or Lansdowne.

Bankside House (lower left) on Wilton Road appeals to Westporters looking to sell their home, move into a condo, and be close to downtown.  

So my question to newcomers — “Did you come from Manhattan or Brooklyn” — may still be valid.

But for all those “invisible” new homeowners — those who were already Westporters, of 3 or perhaps 30 years — the right one might be: “So why did you move 2 miles away?”

FUN FACT: Last year, 199 Westport homebuyers (61%) came from Connecticut, and 74 more (23%) from New York.

There were 8 buyers from Texas, 6 from overseas and 5 each from Massachusetts and California (2% each). Another 4 buyers came from Florida and New Jersey (1% each). The remaining 22 buyers (7%) came from other states.

(“06880” covers the Westport real estate market regularly. If you like those stories — or anything else on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Glendinning Place, Staples Basketball, Diverse Entrepreneurs …

Posted on March 1, 2024 | 9 comments

The plan to build 8 single-family homes, and 2 multi-family “affordable” dwellings for people with special needs, at Glendinning Place off Weston Road is on the Planning & Zoning Commission agenda for Monday (March 4, 7 p.m.; Zoom, and Optimum channel 79 and Frontier channel 6020).

Becky Ruthven — who lives nearby — opposes the plan. She writes:

“In 1966, the Planning & Zoning Commission added a clear and unambiguous  codicil to a Special Permit approval for the construction of an office building for Glendinning Co. Inc. on land located in a Design Development District Zone.

“According to the codicil, ‘The permit herein granted pertains specifically and solely to the proposed use as described and shown by Glendinning Co. Inc and for no other purpose now or at any other time.” [Emphasis added.]”

The proposal before the P&Z on Monday would waive that condition of the special permit.

The homes proposed for homes at Glendinning Place are shown in green.

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The Staples boys basketball team fell agonizingly short last, in the quest for their first FCIAC (league) championship in 61 years.

They fell 70-67 to Trumbull in overtime, in front of a full house at Wilton High School. It was the first league title for the Eagles in a long time too: 41 years.

The #4-seeded Wreckers led for much of the contest. But #2 Trumbull hung around, and caught up to force OT.

The Westporters’ hopes were hurt when junior Adam Udell — who had one of his best games ever in a Staples uniform, with 20 points — fouled out 52 seconds into extra time.

Sophomore Mason Tobias — the 2nd-highest scorer — and Caleb Smith also picked up their 5th fouls. A last-second steal averted a possible tying 3-pointer at the end of the game.

After a decades-long drought, the Wreckers reached the FCIAC championship after a rousing semifinal defeat of #1-ranked Ridgefield.

It was the second straight title appearance for second-year coach Dave Goldshore.

Staples — which graduates only 3 seniors — now pivots to the state tournament. Division I play begins next Thursday (March 7). The #12 Wreckers travel to Manchester, for a 6:30 p.m. game at #5 East Catholic.

Adam Udell in action. (Photo/David G. Whitham for Ruden Report)

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Ten diverse entrepreneurs told their stories last night, in a lively, informative session at the Westport Library.

Representing industries from banking and real estate to retail, healthcare, and BlackLight software (“the Google for Black-owned businesses), they discussed the challenges — and joys — of their careers.

Jay Norris, co-founder of Westport 10 (a networking and social group for Black men and their families) noted in his introduction that the town has dealt recently with issues of racism — and his own family has witnessed it too.

However, he said, he believed “more people have love” than hate in their hearts. The event — on the final day of Black History Month — and the array of panelists (nearly all from Westport) offered a welcome opportunity for education and sharing information.

Startup Westport (the public/private tech entrepreneur partnership) and Westport 10 co-sponsored the event.

It included a video on the importance of diverse entrepreneurship by Dale Mauldin, co-executive director of A Better Chance of Westport.

NBC host Craig Melvin — a Westport resident — and Norris moderated the panels.

Craig Melvin (far right) moderates a panel with (from left) Craig Livingston (managing partner, Exact Capital), Adam Moore (co-founder and CEO, Wheelhouse Center for Health and Wellbeing), Ilka Gregory (senior advisor, First Ventures), Eric Freeman (co-partner and managing partner, Grandview Ventures) and Wesly Arbuthnott (owner, 29 Markle Court restaurant).

Jay Norris (far right) moderates a panel with (from left) Pamela Moss (co-founder and CTO of BlackLight), Kitt Shapiro (owner of WEST), Michele Peterson (chief marketing officer of BlackLight), Ted Parker and Paige Parker (co-presidents of Vibrant Health Solutions). (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Gallo Express — the takeout and delivery-only store offering salads, pasta,  panini and full meals on Post Road East, at the foot of Long Lots Road — has closed. They were in business barely a year.

But it won’t be empty long.

WestportMoms and Megan Rutstein report that Lyfe Café will open in April.

The owners already run Pizza Lyfe, the popular restaurant on the Post Road a few yards away (formerly Bertucci’s/Tanglewoods/Clam Box, for you oldtimers).

The menu will include egg and cheese on brioche buns, a coffee and iced coffee bar, plus pasta dishes.

Pizza Lyfe — and, on the far right, the building where the new Lyfe Café will be.

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Working at his Bridgebrook Marina on the Saugatuck River, Robbie Guimond sees a lot.

Lately, he’s watched construction of a dock and sea wall along the eastern shore.

Yesterday, he took this photo of a commercial barge passing through the William F. Cribari swing bridge:

(Photo/Robbie Guimond)

It does not happen every day, Robbie notes. But, he says, it shows the need for a bridge that opens easily.

“Notice the steel ‘spuds’ pilings lying on the deck” he adds. “These hold the rig in position when lowered.

“It was low tide. They need low tide and ‘spuds down,’ plus the smallest (lowest) push/tug boat to just barely clear the railroad bridge. Unfortunately the saga is not reliable enough to ask for a opening.

“They’ve been caught between bridges before. Not a great place for a 110×60 rig to be caught at the mercy of Metro-North and rapid currents.”

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Regular hours resume at Westport’s Yard Waste site (180 Bayberry Lane) on Monday (March 4). Weekday hours are 7 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.; Saturdays, 7 to 11:45 a.m.

Yard waste at 180 Bayberry Lane.

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The deadline is near for TEAM Westport’s High School Essay Contest.

The topic is hate speech. All students in 9th-12th grade in a Westport school — or who attend school elsewhere — are invited to respond to a prompt asking how diverse opinions can be safely and respectfully shared.

There are 3 prizes: $1,000, $750 and $500.

Click here for details, including the full prompt and how to submit essays.

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Armenia is a fascinating country.

The former Soviet republic, tucked in the Caucasus between Asia and Europe, was the world’s first Christian nation. Many ancient religious sites remain.

If you don’t know much about Armenia — or you do, and want to know more — check out “Armenia, My Home.” It airs nationally on PBS this month (Connecticut Public Television, March 3, 4:30 p.m; WNET Channel 13, March 20, 8 p.m. and March 24, 4:30 p.m.; check other stations for other times).

Director Andrew Goldberg lives in Westport. He has worked for virtually every major TV news organization — ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN and Fox — and this is his 16th PBS documentary.

His topics have included the US Army, immigration, the Holocaust, antisemitism and LGBTQ issues.

But ever since he took a college course on the country, Armenia has been close to his heart.

Goldberg interviewed a number of Armenians in the area, including 1986 Staples graduate Christina Maranci. She is now a professor of Armenian studies at Harvard University.

(He did not interview the world’s most famous Armenians: the Kardashians.)

“Armenia, My Home” will appeal to anyone interested in history, travel, religion or geography, Goldberg says.

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“Heavenly Days in the Palouse” — a photography exhibition by noted Westport photographer Tom Kretsch — opens with a reception Mach 22 (5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church). The show runs through April 26.

The Palouse is a fascinating region of southeastern Washington and northern Idaho, filled with mounds formed over millions of years by wind erosion.

Once home to Native American tribes, the landscape evolved from grasslands to fertile farmland for wheat, legumes and canola.

The green, brown and yellow hills create surreal beauty. And Tom Kretsch has captured it all.

A photo from the Palouse, by Tom Kretsch.

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Staples High School Class of 1993 graduate Ken Coulson knows the asset management world well.

Now it’s part of the plot points in his debut novel, “The Arsonist.”

Much of the story takes place in “Riverwatch” — a fictionalized Westport. Coulson calls it “a corporate thriller and classic David and Goliath story, set against the backdrop of the collision between Wall Street and the climate crisis.
Are there any chances left for a man who helped stoke the flames of a global financial meltdown and then reaped the rewards?”

Coulson had a fast-paced, over-the-top career with Wall Street’s biggest banks before an epiphany during the financial crisis set him on a path of sustainability and music.

He has written and released over 100 songs, many in support of climate action. He founded the sustainability think tank Future Bright, and writes on Medium on mindfulness and the art of here and now. For more information, click here.

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As the weather warms, more Westporters will be walking outdoors. Some of them will do it before or at sunrise, or at or after sunset.

A reader asks that I remind everyone to wear light clothes. It seems like a no-brainer, but anyone who drives in Westport knows that not every walker has that it’s-not-just-about-me brain.

The reader also would like to see folks walk facing traffic. It’s easier for drivers to see them — and vice versa.

Two simple requests. From her lips to …

Which of these people is most likely to be hit?

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Bedford Acting Group provided the wrong information yesterday for show times of the upcoming “Lion King.”

Correct times are 7 p.m. on March 15 and 16, and 2 p.m. on March 16 and 17.  Click here for tickets, cast lists and more information.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, from Canal Street, is the latest in our efforts to push spring along:

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … it’s finally March 1.

The month traditionally comes in like a lion. So …

(We’re not “lion” when we say “06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Assessment 101: What You And Your Property Should Know

Posted on February 25, 2024 | 6 comments

Last month, Weston residents received a “Revaluation Notice of Assessment Changes.”

While their 2024 mill rate has yet to be established, increased values have raised concerns about property taxes. 

Westport will conduct a revaluation next year.

Our friends at KMS Team at Compass provide this information on the revaluation process:

Under Connecticut law, towns must revalue real property every 5 years. A revaluation is revenue neutral. The goal is to fairly value all property to ensure an equitable distribution of the tax burden, the town’s expenditures. Typically, a third-party company is hired to assess all properties in a town.

While assessment appeals are most common in years of town-wide revaluation (every 5 years), each town allows for annual appeals.

The process begins with an assessing officer reviewing your property record card, then viewing your property from the street and/or by interior inspection.

Every homeowner should be familiar with their property record, as inaccuracies can distort valuations. Click here for Westport; click here here for Weston.

The data collected in this phase is then compared to data on homes sold during what is known as the base year.

The base year is 12 months preceding the date of revaluation. The base year for Weston October 1, 2023 revaluation is October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023. While sales before or after the end of the base period may be considered, they are often given secondary weight.

This 10,061-square foot home on 0.83 acres, at 2 Hidden Hill Road near Compo Beach, has 7 bedrooms and 8 1/2 bathrooms. It sold this month for $5,750,000. (Drone photo/Laurence Merz)

Using this data, a fair market value is determined. While timing varies, homeowners are typically informed of this value before year-end. This value is just one piece of calculating your property tax. Mill rates are the second. Mill rates are set in accordance with the town’s budget, and are generally released in June. To learn more about mill rates, click here.

Per state statute, property owners have the right to petition the Board of Assessment Appeals for a change in fair market value. Applications are available from February 1 to February 20. This year, all applications must be submitted to the Assessor’s Office no later than February 20, 2024. No faxes, emails or postmarks will be accepted.

Any evidence such as photographs, surveys or appraisals can help the Board of Assessment Appeals reach a fair decision. Don’t focus on increases from prior years (tax or valuation) as all properties have likely increased (though not uniformly).

Don’t assume previously submitted information will be reviewed for this appeal. Resubmit if relevant and important for your current appeal.

All appeals must be supported by market data. You can gather this from the Assessor’s Online Database (click on Sales Search to find sales within the base period that are similar to your property), or from other real estate website searches. Real estate agents can also help.

(“06880” is your full-service, hyper-local blog. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Affordable Housing Trust Fund: Innovative Solution Fills Important Need

Posted on February 23, 2024 | 19 comments

Affordable housing is crucial.

It’s a way for town employees — police officers, firefighters, teachers — to live in the town where they work.

It’s how longtime older residents can remain here, and striving young people can come.

But it’s not cheap to buy the land for affordable housing, then build it.

In other words: How can Westport afford affordable housing?

Earlier this month, we took a big step forward.

The Planning & Zoning Commission established an “Inclusionary Zoning Fee,” and recommended a fee: 0.5% of construction costs of all projects for which zoning permit applications are filed. That’s $5 for every $1,000.

The fee will be paid by anyone filing for a zoning permit — for instance, builders of new construction, and homeowners making major renovations.

The Representative Town meeting then unanimously passed the motion to create the fund, and voted 30-1 to ratify the fee. The ordinance becomes effective February 23.

What does it all mean?

Here’s one example. The 1 Glendinning Place project — a plan to build 10 homes near the office complex off Weston Road, 2 of them reserved for people with special needs — has an estimated construction cost of $10 million.

That would generate $50,000 for the new Affordable Housing Trust Fund. More would be added from other related zoning permit transactions.

The Glendinning Place proposal could add over $50,000 to Westport’s new Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

The Fund would be used to purchase land, and for the subsequent construction, of affordable housing.

Though the ordinance is not yet effective, the Affordable Housing Trust Fund is already at $10,000. It was jump-started by an anonymous donation, from a resident who believes in its mission.

Besides the 0.5% zoning permit fee and donations, the fund will include investment income, as well as possible state and federal grants.

Planning began almost 2 years, with discussions by then-P&Z chair Danielle Dobin about Westport’s Affordable Housing Plan.

RTM members Matthew Mandell and Seth Braunstein helped shepherd it through many legislative steps. It had strong support from town officials (including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker), town attorneys, and RTM members.

The fund will be administered by an oversight committee. They’ll advise the Boards of Selectwomen and Finance, and the RTM, on how and where to spend the funds. Those bodies must then approve the recommendations.

Tooker will appoint the 5 members of the committee.

“This is a high priority for me,” Tooker tells “06880.”

She has already explored opportunities on town-owned land. The Linxweiler property on the Post Road (between Fresh Market and McDonald’s) could be used for cluster housing, for example.

The Linxweiler property, on Post Road East.

The 5 existing structures on Baron’s South could also be renovated and repurposed, through the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

The committee will add “a whole other perspective, and another strategic viewpoint and layer of focus” to the work Tooker has already done, she says.

“It’s incredibly important to have diverse housing in Westport,” the 1st Selectwoman adds.

“It’s an issue we take very seriously. The committee and fund will be a big help as we proceed strategically.”

Westport is not the first Fairfield County community to embrace the idea of an affordable housing fund. Fairfield, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich have similar ordinances.

Fairfield — which has the same 0.5% construction cost fee as Westport — has raised $2.25 million since 2018. They’ve allocated nearly $1.5 million so far, mainly to acquire property.

New Canaan collects 1% of construction costs for new construction and additions. They have raised $1.1 million since 2020.

Mandell hopes Westport’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund will receive $750,000 to $1 million a year. The first results could be seen in 2026.

(“06880” covers local politics, real estate, and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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The Mill: From 19th Century Factory To 21st Century Condos

Posted on February 20, 2024 | 11 comments

In its 210 years, the brick building on Richmondville Avenue has been home to a twine mill, a candlewick factory, artists’ studios and offices.

The Mill when it was an office building, on Richmondville Avenue.

Later this month, the first owners move into The Mill. That’s the new/old name for the 31-unit luxury condo complex that has been developed — quietly, uniquely, and with an eye toward both the historic past and the modern, amenity-driven future — near the Saugatuck River, just off Main Street.

Despite initial fears by neighbors of increased traffic and noise, the project moved ahead after the 2.41-acre property, with 55,000 square feet of office space, was bought by Coastal Luxury Homes and Gault Family Companies in 2019.

The Mill: ready for occupancy.

As part of the project, the developers created off-site affordable housing. They converted a town-owned 1880 Victorian house at 136 Riverside Avenue into 5 apartments. Four are occupied by people with special needs; a fifth is rented to a staff member.

The historic house got a $2 million restoration (and landscaping) through Redniss & Mead.

136 Riverside Avenue.

On Richmondville, Coastal’s Joe Feinleib, the Gaults and Redniss worked with architects Marybeth Woods, Bruce Beinfield, Philip Hazan, Philip Cerrone and landscaper Bill Kenny to create a concept that The Mill’s website says is “inspired by European boutique hotels.”

All 31 units have different layouts, finishes and ceiling heights. Many include 12-foot windows. Several incorporate the factory’s original brick and stone work.

Primary bedroom, with stone, beams and wide plank floor.

There are 2 styles. “Vintage Modern homes honor the pre-war history of this great structure in the post and beam style, while the New Modern layouts are constructed with steel and glass.” Five units have private outdoor space.

Prices range from $1.495 million to just under $3.5 million. Most are in the $1.7 to $1.8 million range. All have 2 bedrooms, except for the penthouse. Common fees are 93 cents per square foot.

Den and living room.

The Mill’s amenities include a common area with gas fireplace, café, gym, and outdoor lounge with grills and garden.

Artist’s rendering of back yard with lounge, pool area and garden.

A concierge will be on duty 6 days a week, while a furnished guest suite can be reserved for guests.

The Mill is 35% sold. Buyers include Westport residents looking to downsize (units range from 1,400 to 2,400 square feet, out-of-staters who want to be close to family members, and New Yorkers who appreciate the full-service lifestyle, Tribeca/boutique hotel feel, easy commute and proximity to downtown.

“Hudson Malone is next door — and it’s a New York restaurant,” Feinleib notes.

The Richmondville mill has been part of Westport since the early 19th century. When the moving vans arrive this month, it pivots toward the 21st.

(For more information, click here or call 917-388-5432.)

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Nighttime at The Mill.

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