Category Archives: Saugatuck

“Where We Stand”: Selectmen Candidates On 3 Key Issues

Posted on October 6, 2025 | 27 comments

An informed electorate is the greatest bulwark of democracy.

Westporters understand this is a very important election. “06880” is doing our part, to help Westporters understand candidates’ perspectives on a variety of issues.

Once a week, between now and Election Day, we’ll ask the men and women running for 3 important boards — Selectmen/women, Planning & Zoning, and Education — one specific question.

We’ll print their responses verbatim.

This week’s question for the Board of Selectmen/women is:

Controversies in town include the redevelopment of Saugatuck, the Cribari Bridge, and affordable housing. Many of those details are out of the hands of the selectmen/women. But residents look to Town Hall for leadership. How would you address those 3 issues?

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Independent Party-endorsed candidate David Rosenwaks says:

Westport is indeed facing some major issues including the development of Saugatuck, the future of the Cribari Bridge, and affordable housing. These topics are often framed as controversies, but I see them as opportunities to show what leadership should be: visionary, independent, and accountable.

As the first Independent Party-endorsed First Selectman candidate in Westport’s history, I am uniquely positioned to enable change in Westport, unburdened by historical party battle lines.  I am ready to work with anyone who wants Westport to be a better town for all of its residents.

Over the last 5 years, I have dived into the Westport community as an elected and appointed official and as a volunteer. By constantly engaging with the public and the people who serve the community, I understand the issues impacting our citizens and what Westporters want to see accomplished by the next administration.

David Rosenwaks

Saugatuck
Revitalization can bring vibrancy, but not at the expense of neighborhood scale, traffic flow, or community values. Development at Saugatuck is a quality of life issue.

I will pursue a proactive approach: first, listening to our residents’ vision for Saugatuck; second, aligning resources within town government to set clear parameters for infrastructure and aesthetics; and third, engaging developers with a defined town perspective while seeking common ground.

Today, conflict has led us into costly legal battles. Tomorrow, with collaborative leadership, we can negotiate toward a shared, sustainable vision and action plan.

We must put the needs of residents first, ensuring access to all without burdening our community with increased traffic and negatively impacting businesses and home values in Westport.  We need to work together with local business owners, developers, the State and other relevant stakeholders to devise and implement workable and sustainable solutions.

Cribari Bridge
The Cribari Bridge is both a historic treasure and a functional necessity. The challenge is to ensure safety while honoring heritage.

Success will require genuine collaboration between the town and Connecticut’s Department of Transportation — an area where the current administration has stumbled, as seen with the CTDOT facility renovation on Sherwood Island Connector near Post Road. I will ensure residents have a meaningful voice in weighing trade-offs, and serve as Westport’s advocate in every negotiation with the CTDOT.

The Cribari Bridge initiative should be integrated with planning for development at Saugatuck and aligned with the overall growth of our community. Preserving your trust in the process is just as important to me as preserving the bridge itself.

Affordable Housing
Connecticut statute 8-30g requires every municipality to have at least 10% of its housing stock classified as “affordable.” Westport currently sits at around 4%.

But this is not simply about compliance; it’s about ensuring our community remains accessible to families, seniors, and young people. Too often, the absence of long-term planning has left us with divisive oversized proposals instead of thoughtful integrated solutions.

Initiatives like the Affordable Housing Trust Fund are important steps, but they fall short of a comprehensive vision. My commitment is to lead a transparent, resident-driven process that balances affordability, infrastructure, and aesthetics with the preservation of Westport’s character.

It starts with our residents and includes functional town government and concludes with a comprehensive plan shared with developers.

The Larger Choice
These issues highlight a broader decision: do we continue with reactive, partisan politics, or do we embrace proactive, inclusive leadership that listens, plans, and acts responsibly?

I am running for 1st selectman to bring independence, transparency and accountability to the people I serve. Together, we can shape a clear, inspiring vision for Westport’s future.

Your voice. Your town. Your government.

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Republican Party-endorsed candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore say:

Last week’s question was, “What is the most important issue facing Westport?” Our answer was the inability to get things done. That same headwind applies to this week’s question, particularly when it comes to the Cribari Bridge.

Saugatuck Development
Saugatuck should be developed. While the immediate future of Saugatuck remains unsettled, inactivity on the surface does not mean inactivity below the surface.

It’s no secret that an appeal of the P&Z decision has been filed, and a large 8-30g development — with little local zoning control — is very possible. However, development without an 8-30g protection is also possible, but it requires continued discussions with developers.

Discussions with developers can be very productive, as long as all proposals from those discussions are thoroughly reviewed in public with extensive community input. All deliberations and votes must take place in public.

What we should do: Encourage the continuation of dialogue with anyone who has a serious proposal for Saugatuck, as long as all relevant concerns raised during the Hamlet process are addressed. Other towns in our region have successfully worked together with developers (Darien, for example) without the uneven playing field of 8-30g protections. We can increase the number of housing options — both market-rate and affordable — in Saugatuck, while adding retail options that enhance the area.

Andrea Moore and Don O’Day

Cribari Bridge
A beautiful (particularly during the holidays) but very old, state-owned bridge that is narrow and difficult to cross. Renovations or a full replacement have been discussed for a generation, but decisions about the bridge’s future have been avoided for years. Realistically, no real plan for Saugatuck would be complete without a decision on the future of the Cribari Bridge.

What we should do: The Connecticut Department of Transportation is likely to recommend a full replacement for the Cribari Bridge, and Westport has a generational decision to make.  Do we continue to kick the can down the road?

While renovation is preferred, should the facts unequivocally show a replacement is the only option then Westport’s 1st selectman, town leaders, and state representatives must do all they can to ensure that any new bridge is aesthetically consistent with the existing one.

More importantly, to every extent possible, Westport must work with the state to mitigate the flow of large trucks onto the bridge and through Saugatuck when I-95 is backed up. To be clear, any scenario that results in the town of Westport owning and being financially responsible for the ongoing maintenance or eventual replacement of the existing bridge is fiscally irresponsible and must not be considered.

Affordable Housing and 8-30g
Affordable housing is a necessary and important part of Westport’s future. There is not only a shortage of affordable housing in town for young families and seniors, but town officials also haven’t done enough to fully explain the rules surrounding affordable housing and the 8-30g statute.

Simply put, 4% of the dwellings in Westport are categorized as “affordable,” versus the 10% requirement under 8-30g. Because of this, we are routinely targeted by developers exploiting our affordable housing shortfall.

What we should do: Double down on efforts to identify land or vacant buildings that can be used for affordable housing. Westport has strong partners in the Affordable Housing Committee, Westport Housing Authority, Homes with Hope, and the Planning & Zoning Commission. We must be ready to act quickly when opportunities arise.

We should also encourage “friendly” 8-30g projects, as Darien has done, by working with developers willing to collaborate with the town. Finally, we need to communicate better so everyone understands the challenge.

It is all about strong and effective leadership.

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Democratic Party-endorsed candidates Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich say:

It’s no accident that these topics are often grouped together. Not only are they hot-button issues for Westporters, they also represent opportunities for the 1st Selectman to lead and build consensus on what works for Westport.

Let’s start by focusing on how the selectmen can lead and drive results.  Education is not under the purview of the selectpersons’ office, yet we expect and deserve that every candidate weighs in.

Similarly, Saugatuck, Cribari and affordable housing fall mostly under the P&Z and our land use bodies, but because they have a huge impact on the future of Westport, our leaders should lead by providing their perspective and vision.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich

Saugatuck
For Saugatuck, there’s still a path to realize the potential for a transformative project that is good for the village and Westport.

Getting it right for Saugatuck is much more than a P&Z application issue. The selectpeople’s office should be prepared to facilitate the broader conversation about the future of Saugatuck.  Considerations like impact on traffic, parking, density and retailer viability concern all of us and should be part of a community conversation. We’ll make that happen ASAP.

 The Bridge
The Cribari Bridge is a perfect example of an opportunity for the selectmen to lead. Discussions with DOT have been going on for more than a decade, and the bridge continues to deteriorate. DOT’s options have been on the table all this time. What DOT needs is a motivated partner in Town Hall.

When elected, we will jumpstart these conversations to drive to an agreement before we risk having the bridge become impassable, with the resulting traffic chaos. Our priorities will be to make the bridge safe for drivers, bike riders and pedestrians (i.e., make it a bit wider), while also ensuring that it does not become a highway bypass for 18 wheelers.

Height-limiting gantries on either side of the bridge may be the solution. We’ll also weigh the pros and cons of DOT’s offer to reroute Route 136 from Compo South to the Post Road, allowing the town to take control of Bridge Street and the bridge.

Housing
Affordable housing is an issue growing in urgency, statewide and across the nation. Appropriate planning will protect what makes Westport special while making room for the housing our seniors, workers, and families need, while also preserving open space.

Westport has a role to play, and the Democratic-led P&Z should also be recognized for the efforts they’ve made in recent years. We have a robust inclusionary zoning plan; a model for other suburban communities.  We’ve approved SmartGrowth-consistent projects along the Post Road, and have championed both accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and “middle housing” that works in towns like Westport.

Westporters sometimes feel helpless about the adversarial 8-30g projects being proposed by cynical developers. Westport’s leaders can help define the kinds of affordable housing projects we’d welcome, and then facilitate those outcomes, with ideas like offering up town land for development or streamlining project approval within desired zones, saving developers from years of expensive litigation.

Our community already has many tools and resources in place: the Affordable Housing Plan, the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the Affordable Housing Committee, the Real Property Committee, the Westport Housing Authority and Homes with Hope. We just need the right leadership to bring them together into a cohesive action plan.

We have the right large project management and budget experience, the right land use expertise, and the right temperament to handle controversial and complicated issues — and we will, with the best interests of Westport in mind, take action.

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For last week’s “Where We Stand” question, click here.

27 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Saugatuck

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Roundup: Saugatuck Development, Players Dance-a-thon, Beach Dogs …

Posted on October 2, 2025 | 2 comments

What’s next for Saugatuck?

No one knows.

But David Kooris might provide some ideas.

The executive director of the Connecticut Municipal Development Authority will be at the Westport Library on October 16 (noon). He’ll discuss development, community concerns, traffic issues, and creating a more walkable Westport.

If you don’t know the CMDA: you should. The state agency has $60 million in bonding authority. They help communities navigate state bureaucracy. and  advocate for and advise on infrastructure improvements.

I have heard Kooris speak. He has planning experience, and coalition-building skills He knows communities like Westport, and he knows his way around Hartford. The CMDA has resources and expertise that could help create a walkable Saugatuck, with thoughtful housing and vibrant commerce.

At the Library, Korris will discuss innovative funding opportunities that could accelerate Saugatuck’s development; success stories from communities that have transformed their transit hubs; practical next steps Westport can take to unlock economic growth and housing opportunities, and opportunities for residents to get involved in shaping the town’s future. He’ll take questions from the audience, too.

Fairfield opted in to the CMDA program last month. Representative Town Meeting approval would be needed for Westport to do the same. RTM members have been invited to the October 16 event.

David Kooris

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Yom Kippur began at sundown last night.

A few hours earlier — as they have for decades — Westporters headed to Gold’s.

The iconic delicatessen is the place to go for everything needed the night before the day-long fast begins.

And — tonight at sundown — to break it.

(Photos/Frank Rosen)

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David Roth and Kerry Long — co-directors of Staples Players — say: “Thank you to the Westport community members who contributed to our Dance-a-thon fundraiser! Players is so lucky to have such a supportive community.

“If you were at Staples last Friday night, you might have heard music blasting from the auditorium courtyard — songs mixed by our own sophomore Players member Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, with lighting and sound by our fabulous crew members Henry Baker, Jordan O’Brien, Alex Cahaly, Lucas Gomez and Noah Schmelkin-Wilson.

“Over 100 students pledged to dance the night away, to raise funds to sustain Players programming. They danced to current pop hits, old classics and (their favorite) show tunes from musicals they have performed together.

“We saw seniors dancing with freshmen just as easily as with their peers, Players of all ages embracing our young middle school cast members, technicians dancing with actors — the whole group coming together to raise money to do what they love most: create theatre.

“With rising costs of supplies across all technical aspects, and an old and technologically archaic auditorium, Players has asked the community for support so that we can continue to put on productions with elevated production values.

“We have deep appreciation for all the community members that have contributed to our cause. If you missed out and would like to make a donation, you can do so do so here. We appreciate any amount you can give!”

(All photos/Kerry Long)

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The Westport Library has launched its 2025-26 annual appeal. The goal of $335,000 would secure full funding for the Library’s operations, and allow them to continue to provide the vast majority of programming for free or low cost.

The town budget funds approximately 75% of the Library’s operating budget. The remaining 25% is raised through special events like “Booked for the Evening,” and private donations.

This year’s theme is “lifelong learning.” It’s evidenced through the Verso University education initiative; book- and author-focused programming and talks; Verso Studios; children and teen programming, and much more.

This year’s appeal runs through January 31. Click here to contribute.

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Congratulations to Carla Eichler!

The Staples High School art teacher just received the Connecticut Art Education Association’s 2025 Outstanding Art Educator Award, their highest honor. The honor recognizes significant contributions to the field of art education. She will be recognized at the CAEA dinner October 24, in New Britain.

Staples High School principal Stafford Thomas says, “Ms. Eichler’s steadfast dedication to the arts has fostered a vibrant and supportive environment at Staples, where she inspires students to think both creatively and critically while cultivating a love of learning that extends well beyond the classroom.”

Carla Eichler

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Former Westport teacher Claire Fray died peacefully at St. Vincent’s Hospital on Sunday, surrounded by her family. She was 91.

After earning a full scholarship to Dunbarton College, her first job was teaching elementary school on the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia. A young lawyer working for the Pentagon heard she’d been in “Guys and Dolls,” and asked for help in an upcoming production of it.

By the time she accepted an elementary school teaching job in Scarsdale, New York, they cemented a partnership that lasted through nearly 60 years of marriage.

Claire then taught at Burr Farms Elementary School in Westport, and raised 3 children in Fairfield.

She earned a master’s in education at Fairfield University, volunteered with the Fairfield League of Voters, and spent 15 years as chair of the Fairfield Board of Education. During her tenure, the district consolidated two high schools into one.

Claire also spent 40 years as a real estate agent.

Other causes close to her heart included public access to mental health services and local public libraries, inspiring her to serve as president of both the Southwest Regional Mental Health Board and board of the Fairfield Public Library.

Claire pursued her love of watercolor, after winning second place in the Fairfield Sidewalk Art Show in the 1970’s, until glaucoma prevented the completion of her final painting at age 89. She had her first 1-woman show at 72.

Her second one will be a retrospective of her painting career, at her  memorial service.

She was predeceased by her husband John, brothers Barron and William, and sister Judy Santos. She is survived by her sons Scott of Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Chris (Chip) of Fairfield, and Brendon (Amy) of Monroe; grandchildren Connor (Sydney), Devon and Erynn; great-grandsons Theo and James; step-grandchildren Libby (Sam) and Will, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Claire’s family thanks all of the caregivers for their loving attention, especially Angella and Edgar, and her dear friend Joyce Flynn.

A memorial service and art show will be held on Monday (October 6, 12 to 3 p.m., Burr Mansion, Fairfield). Visiting hours are Sunday (October 5, 3 to 6 p.m., Spear-Miller Funeral Home, Fairfield).

Memorial contributions can be made to the League of Women Voters of Fairfield and the Fairfield Public Library.

Claire Fray

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Yesterday — for the first time in 6 months — dogs were allowed on Compo Beach.

JoJo was one of many who celebrated:

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

Remember: A small fence separates and leash and off-leash sections.

(Photo/John Maloney)

And of course: Clean up after your pooch!

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Speaking of the beach: Congratulations to Staples High School sailor Madi Brundige (3rd from left), in the photo below.

She, Steve Girling, Antonio Maya-LeFort and Claire Rahner finished at the top of last weekend’s tightly contested Vanguard 15 fleet at the Cedar Point Yacht Club Fall One Design regatta last weekend.

Betsy Sorenson, sailing with Westporter Ted Gillman were close behind in third, with Even Olmstead (Staples’ assistant sailing coach) and Kim MacDonald in hot pursuit.

While the sailing activities at CPYC switch to Laser frostbiting over the winter, the V15 fleet will gather to socialize and strategize ahead of Team Racing and Fleet Racing in 2026. Everyone — especially high school and college sailors  — is welcome.

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For years Lorenza Arnal has shared her love of Mexico through food — from creating her own brand of salsa macha to selling homemade guacamole in the Westport Farmers’ Market.

Now she offers special journeys celebrating the history, culture and traditions of that country. What started as small culinary tours has blossomed into immersive tours each year.

Her journey to Oaxaca is sold out. But she is running a culinary trip of Mexico City, with meals at the Michelin star restaurants Pujol and Quintonil, guided visits to explore the architecture and art of the city, and a day visit to Puebla.  

It runs from November 2 to 8. and a couple spots have become available

Lorenza also designs corporate retreats with personalized itineraries, community culinary experiences, and wellness-focused excursions, designed to help teams recharge and reconnect.

For more information, email lorenza@capitanaadventures.com.

Lorenza Arnal, in Mexico City.

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Wondering how secure our elections are?

On Monday (October 6, 10 a.m., Town Hall), Westport’s registrars of voters will begin “flash media stick and tabulator testing.” They say: “The public is welcome to observe.”

Making sure your vote is secure. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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A 24-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a July shoplifting incident of $2,940 worth of merchandise at Lululemon. He was charged with the same 2 counts for a similar incident 6 days later at the same store; this time at least $4,410 in goods was stolen. He was held on a $50,000 bond.

A 27-year-old Stamford man was charged with criminal trespass, disorderly conduct and interfering with an officer, following a complaint of a domestic disturbance.

A 24-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with driving under the influence and failure to have headlamps. The man was stopped for having only one working light the officer smelled burnt marijuana, and noticed the drug and paraphernalia inside the vehicle.

Westport Police also issued these citations, between September 24 and 30:

  •  Speeding in a school zone: 3 citations
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1.

All headlights must work properly.

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Susan Garment submits today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo, and adds an apt description: “Getting all your ducks in a row.

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And finally … in honor of Staples Players’ very successful Dance-a-thon (story above):

(Do you wanna dance? Sure! And do you wanna support this hyper-local blog? Of course! So just click on the videos above, then click here to complete the double play. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Library, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Saugatuck, Staples HS

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“Where We Stand”: P&Z Candidates Discuss Their Most Important Issue

Posted on September 30, 2025 | 3 comments

Yesterday, “06880” introduced a new feature: “Where We Stand.” 

Once a week between now and Election Day, we’ll ask candidates for 3 important boards — Selectmen/women, Planning & Zoning, and Education — one specific question.

We’ll print their responses verbatim. 

An informed electorate is the greatest bulwark of democracy. Westporters have always participated avidly in our town government.

“06880” is proud to do our part this fall to help.

This week’s question for the Planning & Zoning Commission is: “What is the single most important issue facing the P&Z right now, and how will you address it?” 

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Michele Paquette is a bipartisan candidate, with endorsements from 3 organizations. She will be listed on the ballot under both the Republican Party and The Coalition for Westport. Additionally, she has earned the support of the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck. She says:

The most pressing concern voiced by residents — and one that demands the attention of Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission — is overdevelopment, and its gradual unraveling of the fabric of our community.

Overdevelopment stems from 3 key areas: deviation from our 2017 Town Development Plan, approval of zoning amendments that increase density beyond what current zoning allows, and the impact of Connecticut’s 8-30g mandate, which lets developers bypass local zoning if a project includes affordable units.

Residents have made it clear: they’re open to thoughtful development and support affordable housing, but not when it compromises Westport’s charm and livability. Their concerns center on increased noise, worsening traffic, and pressure on infrastructure—all of which threaten the town’s unique character.

Michele Paquette

To address this, I will lead with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and resident-driven decisions.

First, we must create a new Town Plan with robust public input — and ensure it’s followed. I will implement a process to educate future commissioners on the plan, so decisions remain aligned with community values.

Second, I will push for stricter scrutiny of zoning amendments, especially those that increase density. The Saugatuck area is a cautionary tale: an approved zoning amendment allowed an 800% increase in density despite the 2017 Town Development Plan’s clear guidance to preserve the area’s small-town feel.

Third, we must tackle 8-30g with a proactive, multi-pronged strategy owned by many representatives. This means partnering with nearby towns under the same pressure as Westport to advocate at the state level for localized zoning solutions and to ask for state funding to support this unfunded mandate.

In addition, we need someone at Town Hall to own executing our affordable housing plan, so we can regain control.

As a commissioner, I will explore creative zoning tools — like converting existing buildings into affordable housing so density is not increased, and strengthening traffic regulations.

I’ll support public-private partnerships to align development with resident goals, and pursue state funding opportunities. We should also consider acquiring strategic parcels of land to guide growth responsibly and develop pre-approved site templates to streamline small-scale affordable housing.

Westport is a remarkable town with strong schools, vibrant neighborhoods, and a deep sense of community.

Growth is inevitable—but it must be managed with vision and care. My goal is to restore balance, seek to protect our town’s ambience, and ensure development serves the people who live here.

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The Democratic Party has endorsed Michael Cammeyer, Bre Injeski and Craig Schiavone. Schiavone is also running on the Coalition for Westport ticket, and has been endorsed by the Alliance for Westport. They say:

The most important issue facing Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission today is how we manage growth, while retaining local control.

Connecticut’s 8-30g statute gives developers extraordinary power to bypass local zoning if towns fall short of state affordable housing targets. This means high-density projects can be forced into inappropriate locations — ignoring traffic, infrastructure, wetlands, and even fire safety.

In recent years, Westport has been different. Unlike neighboring towns overwhelmed by 8-30g projects, we’ve avoided costly court fights and oversized applications.

That success is no accident – it happened because of the decisive votes of the Democratic majority on the P&Z, two of whom are running for re-election today with a new colleague who brings her own fresh perspective.

From left: Michael Cammeyer, Bre Injeski, Craig Schiavone.

Together, our team supported the creation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, rezoning town land for affordable cottage clusters, and approving projects that gave Westport local control instead of leaving it to developers.

The choice is clear: Choose all three Democrats — two with a proven record of delivering results, and one who brings new energy, and a commitment to the same values.

We believe the smarter path to limit density and maintain control over our own zoning is to plan for development on Westport’s terms — not let developers dictate it. That means:

1. Partnering with developers where it works. By zoning for mixed-income, right-sized townhomes and cottage clusters, we prevent oversized 8-30g towers. We’ve already succeeded with projects like the approved townhomes behind The Clubhouse.

2, Using town-owned land strategically. With over $1.4 million in Westport’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund — created under our leadership in a split vote — we can move forward with entirely affordable, low-density projects that provide meaningful units while preserving neighborhood character. This was the vision of our 8-30J Affordable Housing Plan, also adopted in a split vote, which outlined a clear path to a second and third moratorium from 8-30g.

3, Protecting commercial and residential diversity. We acted — in multiple split votes — to permit medical offices in legacy office buildings, support new retail spaces, stop plans to destroy downtown parking, permit the seasonal closure of Church Lane, and strengthen our tax base while allowing for vibrant downtown growth and expanded outdoor dining. We also support creative models seen in other towns that reserve housing for seniors, young professionals, and people with disabilities — enhancing Westport’s housing diversity.

4, Advocating at the state level. We will continue working with our legislators to oppose unfair statewide mandates, such as the proposed “Fair Share” quotas and other laws that would strip towns of local control.

The upcoming Plan of Conservation & Development will be critical. It offers a chance to build on successes like 136 Riverside, which shows affordability and compassion can coexist, and outdoor dining, which revitalized our downtown.

These wonderful things would not have happened without our votes, and with careful planning we can expand affordability, maintain Westport’s character, and ensure thoughtful growth.

Our philosophy is simple: Smart development is not a threat – it is an opportunity. By collaborating with landowners, planning for lower density, and investing in town-controlled affordable housing, Westport can fulfill state requirements while protecting the qualities we love.

The alternative – costly and unwinnable battles under 8-30g – would only weaken our ability to shape our own future.

We pledge to continue to lead with vision, balance, and respect for Westport’s character. Vote all 3 Democratic candidates for P&Z  — two experienced leaders who have already delivered results, and one new voice to help preserve what you love and plan responsibly for the future.

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Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Pic Of The Day #3077

Posted on September 21, 2025 | 3 comments

Cribari Bridge, from The Bridge at Saugatuck (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Posted in Pic of the Day, Saugatuck

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Pic Of The Day #3070

Posted on September 14, 2025 | 2 comments

Compo Beach cannon, now at VFW Post 399 on Riverside Avenue (Photo/Ed Simek)

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Posted in Pic of the Day, Saugatuck

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Slice Is Nice!

Posted on September 14, 2025 | Comments Off on Slice Is Nice!

What a difference a week makes.

Last Saturday was rainy. The Slice of Saugatuck was postponed.

Yesterday’s late-summer weather was perfect. The sun shone, the air was warm, and a couple of thousand folks ate, drank, danced and ate some more, up and down Riverside and Saugatuck Avenues, and around Railroad Place.

The annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce party has become an unofficial kickoff to fall. It’s also a fundraiser: A portion of the proceeds goes to Homes with Hope’s food pantry.

And what better way to celebrate it than by strolling (with or without strollers), enjoying a few dozen restaurants, shops and booths, in one of Westport’s oldest — and coolest — neighborhoods.

Our excellent “06880” photographer Quinn Fitts — a Staples High School junior — was at the Slice, to capture it all.

Like everyone else, she ate it up.

(All photos/Quinn Fitts)

(From Saugatuck to Greens Farms — and downtown to Coleytown — “06880” covers Westport, with news, stories and photos. If you enjoy our work, please click here to support this blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Westport life

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Slice Of Saugatuck Postponed

Posted on September 5, 2025 | Comments Off on Slice Of Saugatuck Postponed

A threat of rain — including severe thunderstorms — has postponed the Slice of Saugatuck.

The event — originally scheduled for tomorrow (September 6) — will now be held Saturday, September 13. The time is the same: 2 to 5 p.m.

Hey, we need the rain!

The family-friendly event features food tastings, retail experiences, seven bands, four bouncy houses, a balloon bender, face painter, antique fire truck, 2 beer/wine gardens and more.

The price is $15 per adult, $5 for children under 13, age 5 and under free. They are available onsite.

The sponsoring Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce donates proceeds to the Gillespie Center food pantry. This year will push the total toward $60,000.

For more information on the event, including participants and a map, click here. 

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Roundup: Saugatuck Slice, Mill Pond Project, Fall Fun …

Posted on August 27, 2025 | 3 comments

The Slice is nice.

And it’s back for a 13th year.

The Slice of Saugatuck — an afternoon of food, music, bouncy houses, sidewalk strolling and more — is set for Saturday, September 6 (2 to 5 p.m.).

Over 40 businesses — and 2,000 attendees — participate in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event

New this year: tables for non-profits. They’ll hand out tasty samples too.

Among the bands at 7 locations are the very popular Otis and the Hurricanes, and Silver Steel.

Beer gardens (with wine too) will be located on Bridge Square and Railroad Place.

The price is $15 for adults, $5 for children under 13; age 5 and under are free. Tickets are on sale at the Slice, beginning at 1:50 p.m.

Since the Slice began, the Chamber has donated $54,000 to the Gillespie Center food pantry. This year’s goal: $60,000.

For more information (including a map), click here.

Tutti’s is one of many popular Slice restaurants. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The Sherwood Mill Cove tide gate project — including repair of 2 gates and a spillway, plus reconstruction of a wooden pier and the seawall — begins shortly after Labor Day.

It will continue through Memorial Day.

Ten spaces in the Old Mill parking lot, and 20 spots in the Compo Beach Soundview lot, will be used for staging.

The work is conducted in coordination with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Repairs begin soon, at Sherwood Mill Pond. (Photo/Judith Katz)

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Speaking of the water: As the weather starts to cool, we won’t have to worry about beach closures due to contaminated water.

But next year, we won’t have to worry about extended closings, either.

Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri looked at the state testing schedule — which sometimes meant the town had to wait 5 days for a result — and knew there had to be a better way.

He found one. Starting with the most recent closure, and moving forward, re-testing will be done on a much more timely basis, with labs that are closer.

Details will follow next spring. In the meantime: Thank you, Erik!

This sign may be seen less often next year. (Photo/Seth Schachter)

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Want to see all the classes, meetings and special events offered next month at Wakeman Town Farm?

Here they are:

For information about any of them (or all!), click here, then scroll down.

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Speaking of fall activities: Westport PAL football is offering a new flag football program, for high school boys and girls.

It’s part of the NFL Flag program, so every participant receives an NFL flag jersey and flag set.

Teams are coached by the players. Games are Saturday afternoons and evenings; practice days will be determined. The sites are Staples High, and PJ Romano Field.

The cost is $275, and includes professional referees. Registration closes September 15. Games begin the week of September 20. Click here to signup. Questions? Email westportpalfootball@gmail.com.

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The next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand playreading is a darkly funny, deeply moving new play: “The One Good Thing or ‘Are Ya Patrick Swayze?'”

It’s September 8 (7 p.m.).

Script in Hand curator and Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan calls it “a beautifully crafted, intimate, 2-character play full of Irish wit, emotional depth, and the kind of quiet revelations that stay with you long after the curtain falls.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Carlos Capellán writes: “We moved to town a few years ago, and did not know about Richard Scarry’s connection to Westport. (Click here for that back story.)

“I have a very old copy of ‘What Do People Do All Day’ from my childhood. The title page shows the sign for the Remarkable Book Shop.” (The author of the 1968 classic, and many other beloved books, lived here for a while. He was friendly with Esther Kramer, owner of the beloved Main Street book store — now Eleish van Breems — and her husband Sidney, who was the author’s representative.)

Check out the lower right.

Carlos adds: “My children love our beat-up old copy held together with tape, and while reading it to them one night I made one more small Westport discovery. In one story, Betsy Bear mails a birthday letter to her grandma. The bottom right of the page shows the letter being postmarked. Right above it is a letter addressed ‘To Humphfrey Girls, Westport.’

“So, one more Westport easter egg in Scarry’s books. But also a small mystery: The spelling of ‘Humphfrey’ is unusual. Maybe some old-timers remember this family, and maybe even their connection to Richard Scarry?”

“06880” readers often come through. If you’ve got an answer, click “Comments” below.

Check out the letter above the one to “Granda Bear,” also lower right.

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Drivers cutting between North Avenue and Roseville Road know there are always interesting signs on Pumpkin Hill Road.

They’re “Signs of Happiness” — that’s what the sign nearby says.

The current array honors the first day of school. All 8 in Westport — plus Stepping Stones Preschool — are included.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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Speaking of the beginning of school: Since its here, you’ll be seeing lots of cars decorated like this around town:

(Photo/Mary Sikorski)

It’s a decades-long tradition … but only for senior girls.

We’re not sure how or when it started.

But if you see a senior driving this car, honk!

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Speaking of cars: The Board of Assessment Appeals meets September 17 (6 to 7 p.m., Town Hall Room 201), to hear appeals of motor vehicle assessments for the 2024 grand list.

Residents should drive there in the vehicle they are appealing.

You wanna assess me how much for this?!

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Back to the first day of school … Westport Police offer these safety tips, for parents to share with their children:

  • Get to the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. (Parents, this one’s on you!)
  • When the bus is coming, stand at least 3 giant steps away from the curb.
  • Wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says it is okay before getting the bus.
  • If you must cross the street in front of the bus, be sure the driver can see you, and you can see the driver.
  • When getting off, be careful that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps are not caught in the handrails or doors.
  • Never walk behind the bus.
  • Walk at least 3 giant steps away from the side of the bus.
  • If you drop something near the bus, tell the driver. Don’t try to pick it up, because the driver may not be able to see you.

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Kevin Burke — called “one of the greatest living Celtic fiddlers” by the New York Times —  headlines First Folk Sunday on September 7 (12:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club).

When Staples High School graduate Wendy Newton owned Irish music-focused Green Linnet Records, she released several of his records.

Suzanne Sheridan — the founder of First Folk Sundays — and her wife Rozanne Gates heard one of Kevin’s CDs, while visiting Wendy in Northampton. Wendy helped arrange his appearance here.

“In the realm of Irish fiddle musicians, that’s like saying Yo-Yo Ma will be playing in Westport,” Rozanne says.

He’ll be joined by John Brennan. The rock guitarist has played with Graham Nash, Chris Hillman and Poco.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Kevin Burke (left) and John Brennan.

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We run plenty of interesting photos in our “Westport … Naturally” daily feature.

This may be one of the most intriguing — and coolest — ever.

Johanna Keyser Rossi explains: “For the past few  summers a big  spider shows  up in the same  area  on our front porch. Scary looking, but fascinating.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … if you know “Where Have All the Flowers Gone,” you understand how brilliantly Pete Seeger’s lyrics come full circle.

Turns out, he didn’t actually write all of them.

Joe Hickerson — a singer, songwriter, and the lead archivist for folk music at the Library of Congress for more than 25 years — actually gave Seeger the last 2 (very important) verses.

Hickerson died earlier this month in Oregon, at 89. According to his New York Times obituary:, he is responsible for:

Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time ago.
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Gone to graveyards, every one.
When will they ever learn? When will they ever learn?

and

Where have all the graveyards gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Long time ago.
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Gone to flowers, every one.
When will they ever learn? When will they ever learn?

Who knew?! (Hat tip: Michael Taylor)

(You can come full circle too: from reading and enjoying “06880,” to helping others do the same. Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. Peace!)

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Pic Of The Day #3051

Posted on August 26, 2025 | 2 comments

Railroad Place (Photo/Duane Cohen)

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Friday Flashback #464

Posted on August 22, 2025 | 11 comments

Last week’s Friday Flashback featured a what’s-old-is-new-again look at the Cribari Bridge.

Specifically: the 1985 campaign to save the then-threatened historic span from the threat of rebuilding, and the tractor trailers that would follow.

The story drew more than 2 dozen comments. Several referenced the temporary bridge that was erected when — a few years later — the bridge was rehabilitated.

(Spoiler alert: The renovation did not alter the structure. The temporary bridge — much praised for its height, and ease of use — was demolished once the project was completed.)

This week, we show you one of the few photos of that temporary bridge. No, it’s not Photoshopped or AI-generated.

Built just north of the permanent bridge, it curved from Bridge Street through the parking lot of what was then the Mansion Clam House (today, it’s the Bridge at Saugatuck restaurant).

Dave Eason — a former co-owner of Mansion — noted in the comments, “It only impacted the extreme southern end of the lot. It actually worked really well.”

Today, that Riverside Avenue terminus has been planted with evergreen trees.

BONUS SHOT: At the lower right of the photo is what was then a high hump on Ketchum Street. During the Gault project that brought (among other things) condos to Saugatuck, the road was lowered.

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Friday Flashback, Saugatuck

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