Tag Archives: Planning & Zoning Commission

Roundup: Post Road Log Pile, Tree Board’s Oaktober, Cuddles For Courage …

Posted on September 19, 2025 | 10 comments

Residents’ long concerns about the enormous Post Road log pile — just across Roseville Road from McDonald’s — may soon be over.

On September 29 (7:30 p.m., Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission will consider 2 items.

The first is basic: authorization of excavation and fill, at a private home.

The second is much more interesting: a request to construct a professional office building, with parking, at 715 Post Road East.

That’s the site of the infamous, towering, probably-safe-but-precarious-looking wood pile.

The public is invited to “log” on.

The wood pile, at 715 Post Road East.

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More wood: Westport’s Tree Board is ready to welcome October.

Or, as they call it, “Oaktober.”

Their annual celebration by that name is set for Saturday, O(ak)ctober 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Jesup Green.

They’ll hand out oak tubelings. Kids can get their faces painted, paint pumpkins, and meet some Earthplace creatures. Halloween costumes are welcome.

The event is sponsored by the Westport Book Shop and Earthplace.

Oaktober, 2024: Tree Board members Dick Stein (left) and Ed Picard.

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Cancer has touched Ella Cohen and Charlotte Booth’s families.

But the Staples High School seniors don’t sit around and mourn.

They created Cuddles for Courage. The mission is to bring comfort and joy to children fighting cancer — one cuddle at a time.

Last year they sponsored a holiday toy drive, collecting gifts for children at Yale New Haven Hospital.

This summer they became a nonprofit.

Now Cuddles for Courage is an official Staples club. They just launched Courage Kits: care packages for kids undergoing cancer treatment.

Each kit includes books and activities, to make treatment days a little easier. They’ll be donated through the club’s new partnership with CT Children’s in Westport.

This winter there will be another toy drive for Yale New Haven Hospital.

Ella and Charlotte invite interested Westporters to follow them on Instagram
(@cuddles.for.courage), and visit cuddlesforcourage.org to get involved.

Cuddles for Courage, with care packages.

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Speaking (still, amazingly) of the holidays:

Wreathing for Community — an initiative  of Westport resident Faith Sargent — transforms donated faux florals into handcrafted wreaths and gifts for neighbors, local organizations and community projects.

This year, Faith leads a special effort to create and deliver 50 winter wreaths — one for every front door at Open Doors Shelter’s affordable housing units in Norwalk. Delivery is the first week of December.

Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport will generously sponsor 20 wreaths. But more support is needed to reach the goal of 50.

Residents can get involved in several ways:

  • Join a Wreath-Making Day at Faith’s home (late October/early November).
  • Donate a 16-18″ wreath base (grapevine or green pine, available at Amazon, Michael’s or Hobby Lobby).
  • Donate wreath hangers (50 are needed).

click here for the Amazon wish list. Interested in volunteering or donating supplies? Email FaithASargent@gmail.com.

Faith Sargent, with fall wreaths.

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It’s time to get Wilde at the Westport Country Playhouse.

“The Importance of Being Earnest” — Oscar Wilde’s timeless comedy — makes its WCP debut on October 28. It runs through November 15.

Tickets start at $50. Click here to purchase.

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport gets ready for the Jewish High Holidays with a guest preacher.

And a baritone singer.

Rev. Ana Levy-Lyons leads this Sunday’s service (September 21, 10 a.m.)., with a sermon titled “Forgiveness is Divine.” Spencer Reichman is the musical guest.

Currently a rabbinical student in the Jewish Renewal movement, Rev. Levy-Lyons is UU minister. She has served UU congregations for almost 20 years, including 12 as senior minister of First Unitarian Congregational Society in Brooklyn.

Unitarian Universalism is a non-creedal, non-dogmatic religious community open to people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport chalice. (Photo/David Vita)

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Also this Sunday: Rev. Dr. Steven Savides leads his first service as Saugatuck Congregational Church’s new settled minister. The special day (September 21) begins at 10 a.m.

Pastor Steven is also an educator and former journalist. He has served UCC congregations in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Ohio.

He earned a Ph.D. in peace studies and theology from Notre Dame University, and a master’s in theological studies from Harvard Divinity School. He was ordained in 2006.

Rev. Dr. Steven Savides

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Caravan of Thieves brings their renowned harmonies to Voices Café October 4 (8 p.m.).

It’s a return appearance. This time they’ll be joined by Staples graduated Dan Asher on bass. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Caravan of Thievs.

Westport resident Grant Patrick died September 14, of cardiac arrest.  He was 70 years old.

The Pittsburgh native graduated from Amherst College, and earned an MBA from Columbia University’s School of International Affairs.

His career in finance included roles at Paine Webber, Whitehead Mann, Citigroup and Napier Park Global Capital, where he worked until his retirement in March. 

For over 45 years Grant was a member of the University Glee Club of New York City. He never missed a performance or a post-rehearsal gathering.

His family says, “Grant had no time for pretense, didn’t care much for material things, and never took himself too seriously. He was defined by an uncommon ability to find happiness in life’s quiet corners: tending his garden, making chutney and giving it away, chopping wood, walking his dog Stella, and sitting at Compo Beach with family and friends, debating the topics of the day with his baseball cap pulled low. Perhaps most emphatically, Grant was a man who believed in doing the right thing, even when no one was watching.”

He is survived by his wife Susan Terry, his sons Morgan and Will, and his siblings George and Nancy. A memorial service will be held for family and friends at Christ & Holy Trinity Church on October 4, at 11 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Grant’s honor to Music on the Hill CT.

Grant Patrick

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Porcelain berries make their first-ever appearance in a “Westport … Naturally” feature today:

(Photo/Jonathan Rosenoer)

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And finally … the porcelain berries above remind us of our favorite Berry:

(You never can tell what you’ll find on “06880.” But that’s part of the fun. If you enjoy our daily Roundups — or anything else in this hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Obituaries, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: More Hamlet Action, New Parks & Rec Programs, T-Mobile’s Weston Woes …

Posted on September 3, 2025 | 14 comments

Profuse apologies!

For the second time yesterday, a technical glitch prevented David Rosenwaks from joining our Instagram Live.

It was not his fault. He’s a very tech-savvy guy. The blame lies elsewhere — I’ll take it!

But the third time will be the charm. Because Dave and I will be together, in person. No issues with remote.

The date is this Friday (September 5), at 4 p.m. We’re on Instagram @06880danwoog.

Thanks for your patience!

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When the Planning && Zoning Commission voted 4-0 (with 3 abstentions) to deny ROAN Ventures’ Hamlet at Saugatuck application, many town officials and residents expected an appeal.

The developers of the retail/residential/event space project have indeed gone to court.

But another legal action is in the works too.

Gloria Gouveia — former Westport zoning administrator, and founder of her own Land Use Consultants firm — has filed a zoning amendment application with the P&Z.

Its goal is to repeal regulations adopted in 2022 — at ROAN’s request — that allowed the firm to propose the Hamlet.

Citing the length of the application process and the difficulty of determining the proposed development’s compliance with the regulation (Section 24C), Gouveia’s request includes reasons in support of the repeal, and a list of benefits to the town should the repeal be granted.

Gouveia says this is her first application to repeal a zoning regulation in her 40-plus year career.

Part of the Hamlet plan, as seen from the Saugatuck River.

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Speaking of local politics: As reported by “06880” earlier, Altice has rearranged its Optimum channels.

Government meetings are no longer available on Channel 78. They can now be found on Channel 1310.

Go figure.

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Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department fall (and winter!) program signups began at 9 a.m. this morning (September 3).

Stop reading now! Go sign up — some go fast.

Programs include fall tennis, youth soccer, baseball clinics, multi-sport clinics, youth basketball, ice skating and swimming.

Click here to see the full program lineup.

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If you’re a T-Mobile customer in Weston, you’re probably not reading this on your phone.

Weston Today reports that a sudden shutdown in cell service has resulted from the company not coming to terms with the town on a lease of a tower.

The town has reached agreements with AT&T and Verizon.

First Selectwoman Samantha Nestor notes that the decision to shut down service was made by T-Mobile, not the town. The company did so without notifying town officials or customers.

Weston Today says, “The shutdown appears to affect all Weston T-Mobile users, including students, teachers, and emergency responders. Users in nearby towns may also be affected.” Click here for the full story. 

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Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport is gearing up for a new year.

Members enjoy clam bakes, coffees, holiday parties, kayaking, barbecues, happy hours, wine tastings and TGIF get-togethers.

They play canasta. They go hiking and to movies. There is a book club, culinary group and luncheon club. There are trips to museums, baby and toddler play groups, and girls’ nights out. The group is always looking for new ideas, and very responsive to members’ needs.

It’s not just a “newcomers” group. All Westporters are welcome. Though most are women, men are active too. There are singles as well as couples.

For membership information, email membershipnnwestport@gmail.com. For events: eventsnnwestport@gmail.com. For all other questions, contact presidentnnwestport@gmail.com.

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And the winner is …

“The Edge of Water.”The multi-generational debut novel by Olufunke Grace Bankole is the winner of the 2025 Westport Prize for Literature. The award is presented annually to an original work of literary fiction that is both relevant and timeless.

Bankole will be honored at the Westport Library on November 6 (7 p.m.). She will then take part in a special conversation with Yale Review editor Meghan O’Rourke.

Copies of “The Edge of Water” will available for purchase and signing.

This is the third year for the $10,000 prize. Previous honorees were Zadie Smith for “The Fraud,” and Alejandro Puyana (“Freedom is a Feast”).

The 2 other Westport Prize finalists this year were “O Sinners: by Nicole Cuffy, and “Rabbit Moon” by Jennifer Haigh.

“The Edge of Water” follows Amina, who moves from Nigeria to New Orleans to forge her own path. But a hurricane threatens to destroy the city, upending everything she’d dreamed of and the lives of all she holds dear. Years later, her daughter is left with questions about the mother she barely knew, and the family she has yet to discover in Nigeria.

Submissions for the 2025 prize were read and vetted by a team of nearly 50 volunteer readers. The best-reviewed books advancing to a jury, for final selection.

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As summer vacation ends, Saugatuck Church hosts a “Welcome Back Sunday.” It’s this week: September 7.

The 10 a.m. service includes a “blessing of the backpacks” — a perfect way to start the new school year.

A coffee hour, with food and refreshments, follows. All are welcome.

Last year’s Blessing of the Backpacks.

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Adam Frank is an expert on life in the universe.

And death.

On September 16 (8 p.m.), the University of Rochester astrophysics professor offers a Westport Astronomical Society lecture on “The Search for Life in the Universe.”

The WAS calls him “a leading expert on the final stages of evolution for stars like the sun. (His computational group) has developed advanced supercomputer tools for studying how stars form and how they die. A self-described ‘evangelist of science,’ he is also committed to showing others the beauty and power of science, and exploring the proper context of science in culture.”

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“06880” reported in July that Soleil Toile was closing.

The Post Road East lingerie/swimwear/accessories/and more shop is now fully gone. All that remains:

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Westport town attorney Ira Bloom, a senior partner at Berchem Moses, recently received the Marvin J. Glink Private Practice Local Government Attorney Award from the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA).

It recognizes “an exceptional private practice attorney serving municipal clients who demonstrates the traditional qualities of excellence in the practice of law, along with providing outstanding service to the public, and who possesses an exemplary reputation in the legal community, the highest of ethical standards, who is devoted to mentoring young lawyers, and who is devoted to educating lawyers in local government law.”

Bloom has been Westport’s town attorney since 1998. He holds similar positions in New Canaan and Weston. He is also town counsel for Wilton, and counsel for Easton.

Ira Bloom

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Many of us in Westport take for granted the greenery that surrounds us.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image from Compo Cove reminds us of the lushness everywhere, at this time of year.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … in honor of the blessing of the backpacks (story above):

(Happy new [school and activity] year! Help us celebrate, by clicking here to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” Thanks — and have a great one!)

 

 

14 Comments

Posted in Local politics, religion, technology, Weston

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[OPINION] Alliance For Saugatuck: Tide Has Turned Against The Hamlet

Posted on August 21, 2025 | 24 comments

For months, the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck was one of the fiercest voices against the Hamlet at Saugatuck project. The grassroots group cited traffic, parking, density, changes to our “small town charm” — and many other reasons — as they urged town officials to reject the proposal.

Last month, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 4-0, with 3 abstentions, against the Hamlet.

Within a few days, ROAN Ventures — the developer of the Hamlet residential/hotel/retail/event space project — announced an 8-30 development.

The plan includes 400 to 500 residential units, in the same general Saugatuck footprint as the Hamlet site. As an 8-30g, 30% would be deemed “affordable” under a state formula. Its name: The Alliance for Saugatuck Housing Opportunity.

The Westport Alliance for Saugatuck writes:

The tide has turned on Hamlet, and brought us other choices for Saugatuck.

ROAN has appealed the P&Z’s correct denial of its incomplete Hamlet application. We understand they may already be in negotiations with the town. And using the same threat used in 2022 to create the Saugatuck text amendment that increased zoning by 800%, exclusively for the properties they controlled.

In their Instagram and TikTok posts, ROAN attempts to blame the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck for their 100-foot high 8-30g project, even misappropriating our name to confuse residents. This is why we strongly felt the need to clear the air.

Artists’ rendering of ROAN Ventures’ 8-30g project. 

The real Westport Alliance for Saugatuck is the voice of thousands of residents who are too smart for a blame game.

Six months ago, residents from every corner of town — parents, commuters, small-business owners — came together to oppose ROAN’s dense, urbanized Hamlet proposal. Concerns ranged from choking traffic and lost commuter parking to environmental and public safety risks.

From those meetings, the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck was born. We now represent over 5,000 residents — multi-partisan, multi-generational — united for smart Saugatuck development that strengthens Westport without sacrificing its character or safety.

The tide on this project has turned.

Each day brings new voices who have changed their thinking on the Hamlet project. Many were initially in favor, and believed ROAN would create something special.

From the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck website: ROAN Ventures’ original 2022 rendering, during their text amendment hearing …

Every day more stand up to express their disappointment and frustration at how this project morphed from the promised quaint New England coastal village to an oversized urban plan.

… and the same view from the Saugatuck River, in a 2025 view.

All along, many of Westport’s smartest minds gave ROAN advice, methods for compliance, and numerous ideas to make their project acceptable. They refused.

With time running out on public hearings, they were urged to withdraw and refile. Again, they refused.

It’s not an either/or choice.

ROAN wants you to believe it’s their way or their gulag. This is false.

An 8-30g project means 70% of residences will be market rate. No market rate buyer will buy or rent an apartment in a building that looks like a prison, or doesn’t have adequate parking.

ROAN knows this threat is hollow, and only meant to scare the town into giving them concessions.

Many residents ask whether we should negotiate with ROAN. Can we trust them to keep their word?

Westport is an extraordinary, wealthy and desirable place. Our town does not have to bend for any developer. We hold the cards. The Hamlet application was rightly denied for substantive reasons. The appeal will fail.

Unless ROAN is willing to make the same pivot smart Westporters have made, to listen to residents and answer their needs, there is no reason to negotiate. Westport deserves a smart, well-planned, development that fuels a bright future for Saugatuck.

A future with green space, riverfront access, housing (both affordable and market rate), retail and offices — without crippling traffic, parking shortages or safety hazards – all while making attractive returns for a developer and investors. But this takes an experienced developer who listens to residents.

The real Westport Alliance for Saugatuck will see this through to help create this bright future. Together, we stopped the Hamlet. Together, we can do it again, even with the inevitable Superior Court appeal.

In the meantime, we’ll continue to ensure the voice of the public is heard. We invite you to join us!

(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all residents. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com)

 

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Posted in Categories, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Roundup: Coalition For Westport Candidates; Beach Bar Mitzvah And Sunday Worship …

Posted on August 18, 2025 | 3 comments

The Coalition for Westport has nominated and endorsed 2 candidates for the Planning & Zoning Commission.

One — Michele Paquette — has already been nominated by the Republican Party for that seat.

The Coalition says, “she brings over 2 decades of executive leadership and strategic vision to her candidacy. Originally from the Midwest, Michele moved to the East Coast more than 25 years ago to advance her career in biotechnology, where she rose to become an executive — earning 10 awards for excellence in leadership and innovation.

The second Coalition candidate is Michael Chaney. The Coalition calls him “a serial entrepreneur, primarily in the digital marketing space.” He was founder and CEO of Piston, a digital marketing agency with offices in San Diego and New York. He served on the board of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Brandcenter for 3 years.

A press release said, “These candidates share the Coalition’s long-held emphasis on careful, imaginative, and comprehensive planning that addresses the inevitability of future growth and development at a scale appropriate to Westport.

“The Coalition believes these candidates will energize and present new ideas and perspectives to our town.”

Michele Paquette and Michael Chaney

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Compo Beach is many things, to many people. It’s a place to walk, swim, tan, grill, and enjoy ourselves in a variety of other way.

For some, it’s also a place to feel close to God.

Yesterday, Compo was the site of a bar mitzvah.

For a 75-year-old man.

He lives in Los Angeles. But his children recently moved to Westport. So when he wsa planning his ceremony — 62 years later than most — he wanted it to be near them.

Rabbi Michael Friedman of Temple Israel performed the rite.

A few hours earlier, Green’s Farms Congregational Church led the morning beach service. Churches rotate hosting each week.

Yesterday, Bridgeport’s Pivot Ministries were special guests.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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In addition to the upcoming Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service course beginning September 9 announced in yesterday’s Roundup (click here for details), there is a special Emergency Medical Responder course, for high school students ages 14-15.

It introduces freshmen and sophomores to teamwork and life-saving skills, creating a pathway to future EMT certification by allowing them to take ambulance shifts alongside EMS crews.

For more information or to register for these programs, click here.

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Karina Rykman played the Levitt Pavilion on Friday night. The New York bassist is a rising star on the jam band scene.

This was her 4th appearance in Westport since her debut in 2022.

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

This week’s schedule:

Tuesday (August 17, free): Dirty Sock Funtime Band: Children’s Series

Wednesday (August 18): Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band, with Bhi Bhiman

Thursday (August 19, free): Skorts, wth Pond View

Friday (August 20): John Oates & the Good Road Band.

All shows are at 7 p.m. Click here for free tickets, to purchase tickets for the August 18 and 20 shows, and more information.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is larger than life-size.

Eric Bosch says, “This ‘Star Wars’-looking fellow was perched on one of our hydrangea bushes. He’s only an inch long.”

(Photo/Eric Bosch)

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And finally … on this date in 1920, the 19th Amendment was ratified. It only took 133 years for American women to earn the right to vote!

( Great news! Women can vote! Even better: Everyone can contribute to “06880”! Just click here to support your favorite hyper-local and all-inclusive blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local politics, religion, Teenagers

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Roundup: Don O’Day, Stew Leonard, Staples Football …

Posted on August 14, 2025 | 12 comments

As Westport’s selectperson’s race ramps up, “06880” is there.

This afternoon (4 p.m.), Dan Woog and TV journalist Dave Briggs take their InstagramLive camera into the political arena. We’ll chat with Republican-endorsed candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore. It’s the first in a series we’ll do, with all those running.

Find us @06880danwoog at 4 today. We’ll take your questions, and listen to your comments.

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Westport Rotary Club LobsterFest tickets go on sale tomorrow (Friday), at 10 a.m.

Rotary officials sent an incorrect link, which was posted yesterday. Here’s how to get tickets tomorrow morning, starting at 10: Click here, then follow the prompts.

Get ’em before they sell out!

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Invaders have returned to Winslow Park.

This time though, it’s not spotted lanternflies.

It’s stuffed animals.

Yesterday morning, alert “06880” reader Mark Mathias spotted 4 of them.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

Mark has no idea where they came from. Perhaps, he says, they’re friends of the stuffed animal at Trader Joe’s. (It’s “hidden” in the store. If a child finds it and brings it to the front, he or she is rewarded with candy or a sticker.)

There are many mysteries in Westport. (Including at Winslow — for example, the oddly symmetrical, strangely placed slightly creepy hill near the entrance.)

If you’ve got any info — or even a theory — about these stuffed animals, click “Comments” below.

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On Tuesday at Yankee Stadium, Westport resident Stew Leonard Jr. threw out the first pitch, against the Minnesota Twins. It was a perfect strike.

The supermarket mogul wore a custom jersey, courtesy of the Yanks, emblazoned with #38 and “Stewie.”

It honored his toddler son, Stew Leonard III, who drowned in 1989. Stewie would have been 38 this year.

Stew was selected for the honor of throwing out the first pitch by Yankees sponsor Mike’s Amazing, in recognition of his quick action in saving a choking crew member at the WPIX Channel 11 studio on August 1.

Mayor Adams declared yesterday “Stew Leonard Day” in New York, in honor of his heroics. Click here or below for the Instagram. (Hat tip: Susan Farley)

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Speaking of sports: Staples High School football is just beginning its new season. They’ve got a new coach, Matty Jacowleff.

But some things don’t change. This afternoon, the program hosts its 6th annual Murph Challenge.

It’s a culmination of their summer fundraising, for both the football program and the Catch a Lift Fund (the non-profit that helps post-9/11 combat-injured veterans regain mental and physical health).

The event begins at 4:30 p.m., with Catch a Lift veteran Andy Smith talking to the players about sacrifice, resilience and commitment.

Then the athletes take on the Murph Challenge. It includes a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another mile run. (With a modified version for linemen!)

Everyone is invited to Paul Lane Field, to listen to Smith’s talk, and watch the Wreckers take on the Murph. Donations are welcome by Venmo: @Staples-Gridiron.

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Westport Police made 11 custodial arrests, in the 2 weeks between July 30 and August 12.

Five New York City males, ages 31, 18, 18, 17 and 15, were charged with forgery, and conspiracy to commit forgery, after attempting to pass counterfeit bills at local businesses. The 31-year-old was also charged with risk of injury to a minor.

A 38-year-old Milford man was charged with larceny, criminal attempt and conspiracy to commit larceny, and failure to appear, after officers responded at 3:44 a.m. to a report from a homeowner that someone had entered and searched her unlocked vehicle, parked in her driveway. A nearby resident reported that items had been stolen from his unlocked vehicle too. An officer observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the middle of the road on an adjacent street. The operator fled, but at the same time another man was seen walking toward the vehicle. He admitted to entering the unlocked vehicles. He was unable to post a $10,000 bond.  The second suspect’s identity is still under investigation.

A 28-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with larceny, after complaints from 3 residents regarding missing jewelry from their homes. An investigation revealed that all 3 employed the same cleaning service. An employee of the service was pawning the jewelry. She was unable to post a $250,000 bond.

A 25-year-old Old Greenwich woman was charged with larceny, after shoplifting $14,651 worth of goods at Michells. She was released on a $10,000 bond.

A 41-year-old Stamford man was charge with larceny, after a report that jewelry valued at $10,000 was missing from a home. The suspect worked for a company that provided service at the victim’s home. He was released on a $25,000 bond.

A 43-year-old Westport man was charged with criminal possession of a firearm. He was ineligible to possess the Taurus .357 magnum handgun. He was unable to post a $100,000 bond.

A 59-year-old Stratford man was charged with failure to appear. He was released on a $10,000 bond.

WEstport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 17 citations
  • Driving while texting: 12
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 12
  • Speeding: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Distracted driving: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Texting while driving (2nd offense): 2
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Possession of a vicious/barking dog: 1
  • Permitting a dog to roam: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1
  • Improper stop: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to carry driver’s license: 1

A citation was issued for a vicious/barking dog. This is not it.

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The Planning & Zoning Commission meets in executive session at 4 p.m. today, at the law office f Berchem Moses.

There is one agenda item: “Discussion of pending litigation, Roan Development Ventures LLC v. Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Westport, for property at 601, 606, and 609 Riverside Ave, 91 and 96 Franklin St, 2 and 16 Railroad Place (The Hamlet at Saugatuck).”

It is the first of many such discussions, following the filing of a lawsuit against the P&Z by the developer, following denial of its proposed Saugatuck project.

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Speaking of public hearings: The Planning & Zoning Department says that scammers have contacted residents regarding zoning and/or public hearing applications.

The bad guys falsely claim that a “public hearing fee” must be paid directly to them before an application can proceed.

The town of Westport will never request payment fees through phone calls, texts, emails or payment apps like Venmo, Zelle or CashApp.

All official fees are paid directly to the town through established, secure payment methods.

Scammers may use official-sounding titles, fake letterheads, or spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.

If you receive a suspicious request:

  1. Do not provide personal or financial information.
  2. Do not send payment.
  3. Contact the  P&Z Department immediately (203 341-1030) to verify the legitimacy of any request.
  4. Report the incident to the Westport Police Department: 203- 341-6000.

Don’t fall for a “public hearing fee” scam!

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Little Pub @ Dunville’s is hosting a new original music series.

On the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month (7 p.m.), local singer-songwriters take the stage. The next one is August 26.

There is no cover, though ordering a drink and food is encouraged. The program is curated by Westport resident and musician Erik Moses. 

Melissa Capezio, this week at Little Pub @ Dunville’s. (Hat tip and photo/Matthew Mandell)

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The other day, “06880” published a photo of parking signs downtown.

They showed new 2-hour limits (down from 3) on several streets. (Parking lots are not affected.)

The signs said the limits were in effect from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. — even though the new regulation does not start until 8 .m.

In fact the erroneous signs had already been changed, by the town Highway Department.

They were clearly way ahead of “06880.”

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Speaking of downtown: The public is invited to his year’s free Japanese Fall Festival (Saturday, September 6, 1-4 p.m., Jesup Geen).

The family-friendly festival is sponsored by the Japan Society of Fairfield County. It features taiko drum performances, brief plays of Japanese folk tales, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dancing.

Taiko drums, at the Japanese Fall Festival.

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We’ve reported on the success of the Fairfield Little League team — regional champs, now competing in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvan — several times, because pitcher Ben Herbst is the son of a Staples grad, nephew of another, and grandson of Mickey and Candace Herbst.

But there are other reasons to root for our neighbors, too.

Jennifer (Zeoli) Curley is a 1996 Staples graduate. Her son Colin is on the team — and her husband Tom is one of the coaches.

Britt (Horton) Dunlap is a 1999 Staples grad. Her son Boden is on the squad too.

Fairfield won their first game in Williamsport last night. They play tomorrow night (Friday, 7 p.m.) against Hawaii. The game will be televised on ESPN.

Here’s hoping they go at least as far as the 2013 Westport team — World Series finalists! (Hat tip: Chuck Haberstroh)

Boden Dunlap, Ben Herbst and Colin Curley are all in this photo.

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Pam Docters describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo: “Gorgeous contrast of the blue sky and the white hydrangeas on Saugatuck Shores!”

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … you may have predicted this, from the Police Reports (above):

(Winslow Park, Staples football, Westport police — a few of the things that make our town special, all together in one Roundup. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Local politics, Police, Restaurants, Sports

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Saugatuck’s Next Step: ROAN To File 8-30g Plan

Posted on August 8, 2025 | 26 comments

Move over, Hamlet.

Make way for “The Alliance for Saugatuck Housing Opportunity.”

ROAN Ventures – the developer of the Hamlet residential/hotel/retail/event space project, whose application was denied last month by the Planning & Zoning Commission – is moving forward with an 8-30g proposal.

The plan includes 400 to 500 residential units, in the same general Saugatuck footprint as the Hamlet site. As an 8-30g, 30% would be deemed “affordable” under a state formula.

ROAN hopes to file its new application by the end of the month.

The announcement comes a day after the developer appealed the Hamlet denial in Bridgeport Superior Court. ROAN is pursuing the 8-30g while simultaneously going to court, to maintain all options for the Saugatuck site.

The 8-30g application will be as controversial as The Hamlet. Connecticut’s 8-30g affordable housing regulation gives municipalities little say in areas like density, parking, public amenities, walkability and waterfront access.

An earlier sketch of a possible 8-30g housing development in Saugatuck. Railroad Place is at the bottom, and bisects the buildings at the left and center; Luciano Park is the green area at top left. Riverside Avenue runs to the right of the building on the right.

In a statement, ROAN calls the Hamlet denial “a significant missed opportunity for Westport.” As a result, the developer has shifted to another use for the site.

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) upheld the original P&Z text amendment by a 33-1 vote, ROAN notes, “citing the possibility of a state-mandated affordable housing development” if they did not affirm the rezoning.

Chris Smith, zoning attorney for ROAN, says the developer is “very disappointed with the Commission’s denial of the Hamlet, especially after working with the Commission and town over a long period of time.

“However, my client understands that Westport has been receptive to residential communities with housing opportunity components in the past.”

ROAN “looks forward to working with the Commission and town in moving forward with a comprehensive proposal that promotes housing opportunities for the citizens of Westport in the Saugatuck neighborhood,” Smith adds.

The P&Z’s denial vote “triggered significant interest from many developers who were following the special permit process,” ROAN tells “06880.”

“At the moment the plan is for ROAN to develop the property, potentially with some partners who have shown interest in the new business plan.”

Noting that the Hamlet proposal included 57 residential units, 57 hotel rooms and building heights up to 62 feet, ROAN says their goal was to “provide a vibrant village atmosphere with public waterfront access, retail, dining, and diverse housing options.

“Architectural plans were created to integrate seamlessly with Westport’s charm, and contribute to local economic growth and modernized infrastructure.”

“06880” is reaching out to town officials for comments on the Alliance for Saugatuck Housing Opportunity plan, and the Superior Court appeal.

26 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Roan Appeals P&Z Hamlet Decision. Next Stop: Superior Court.

Posted on August 7, 2025 | 11 comments

Less than 2 weeks after its rejection, The Hamlet is back in the news.

ROAN Ventures — the developer of the proposed residential/ hotel/retail/event space Saugatuck project — appealed the decision.

In a filing late yesterday in Bridgeport Superior Court, ROAN alleges that Westport’s Planning & Zoning  Commission acted “illegally, arbitrarily and in abuse of discretion,” in its 4-0 vote (with 3 abstentions) on July 28.

ROAN asks the court to direct the P&Z to grant approval, and pay the developer’s legal fees.

The appeal was expected by many town officials.

Aerial rendering of the Hamlet at Saugatuck project. 

ROAN’s project began with a text amendment allowing development at the site bordered by Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and Charles Street, and along the Saugatuck River.

It continued through many iterations, and hundreds of hours of meetings.

In its appeal, filed by attorney Eric Bernheim, ROAN says it complied with all applicable regulations, including “height, lot area, setbacks, building coverage, total coverage, building spacing, floor area, density, public waterfront access, architectural design, signage, parking and loading, traffic, public health and safety, and landscaping.”

Throughout the process, ROAN says, they worked with the P&Z’s consultants to address concerns, including building height, density and coverage.

The denial was “unreasonable, arbitrary and illegal,” the appeal says. The reasons for the decision were “inadequate, insufficient, and/or not supported by substantial evidence.”

Further, the P&Z decision “exceeded (its) jurisdiction and authority.”

The appeal alleges errors by the P&Z in incorrectly including a parcel not under contract in the total waterfront frontage, and referencing an “outdated and superseded rendering” of the waterfront buildings.

Furthermore, the court document says, the commission “ignored and disregarded all expert testimony and uncontested facts, from both Roan and the Commission’s own staff and … consultants,” in areas including traffic and the waterside garage entrance/exit.

The return date for the appeal is September 16.

 

11 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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Unsung Heroes #394

Posted on August 6, 2025 | 7 comments

It’s been quite a year, politically.

Forget Washington and Hartford.

Here in Westport we’ve endured long and heated debates, on a series of topics.

Really long. And very heated.

The outcomes have not pleased everyone. They never will.

But decisions have been made. And they’ve been made by people we elected to make them.

The Planning & Zoning Commission spent hundreds of hours on one topic — the Hamlet — this year alone. There were many other agenda items too. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

They’re not random men and women. They’re fellow Westporters.

Our neighbors.

They sit through long — really long — meetings. They spend time before, reading reports. They spend time after, listening to residents.

You and I may not like their decisions. But they’re the ones who have stepped up, volunteered, and been elected or appointed to do the job.

Some are running again. Some have stepped down.

Some newcomers are on the November ballot. Some are petitioning to join them.

All deserve our thanks. They are doing the thankless, tedious and trying work of government.

We can watch the meetings, or not. It’s our choice.

They’re the ones sitting there, in person or on Zoom.

And some of those meetings are really long.

(PS: Interested in running for the Representative Town Meeting? You need just 25 signatures from voters in your district. The deadline is September 9. Contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.)

(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)

7 Comments

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Roundup: Home Energy Audit, Triple H, Cuban Prison …

Posted on August 1, 2025 | 2 comments

This summer, it’s your air conditioner.

Six months from now, it will be your heater.

Both cost big bucks.

Both could also cost a little — or a lot — less.

Sustainable Westport, in partnership with the town of Westport and People’s Action for Clean Energy, has just launched HeatSmart Westport.

The program helps residents in 3 ways:

  • Improve home energy efficiency by getting a Home Energy Solutions audit from a certified technician. The typical cost is $75. But for everyone who signs up by August 31, and schedules and appointment between now and October, it’s free.
  • Insulate your home. and make other improvements to its envelope.
  • Consider switching your heating and cooling source to an energy efficient heat pump.

A typical HES visit includes about $800 worth of services and materials, and can result in over $180 in annual energy savings,

Each resident receives a personalized report outlining recommended improvements, such as insulation upgrades or more efficient equipment, along with rebates.

The program is open to all Westport homeowners and renters. If youve had an HES audit before 2019, you can have another now.

Click here for more information, and to schedule a free home energy audit.

An energy analysis unearths plenty of information about heat loss.

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There was a local face in the White House yesterday, as President Trump announced the return of the Presidential Fitness Test to public schools.

Weston’s Paul Levesque — better known as professional wrestler Triple H — stood on one side of Trump. Vice President Vance was on the other.

The gathering included Secretuary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and other famous athletes, including  golfer Bryson DeChambeau, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, and former New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor.

Triple H — who once coached softball here — currently serves as WWE’s chief operating officer. He is married to Stephanie McMahon — a retired wrestler, WWE executive, and daughter of WWE co-founder Vince McMahon and his wife Linda, Trump’s Secretary of Education.

A news story last fall described Triple H’s opulent lifestyle, including a Weston “mansion,” luxury car collection, and Bombardier Global 5000 private jet. (Hat tip: David Loffredo)

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From 1972-75, Longtime Westport resident Ron Schooler spent time in a Cuban prison.

Next Friday (August 8, 1:30 p.m., Westport Senior Center), he and Jim Evans will share their personal stories of that ordeal.

The event is part of the Senior Center’s “This is Your Life” series, presented through the Legacy Project.

Ron and Jim were on a sailing trip, delivering a boat from Rhode Island to Jamaica. But boat damage and bad weathe led them into Cuba waters, where they were arrested as “enemies of the state.”

Fifty years later, they’ll offer their perspectives on survival in a Cuban prison, during a time of political and social transformation.

Ron Schooler and Jim Evans

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Speaking of the Senior Center: They just received a $1,000 grant from the Southwestern Connecticut Transit Equity Foundation.

The funds — part of the organization’s first-ever golf event — will help subsidize transportation for members. They’ll be able purchase trips on Wheels2U, which offers service Tuesdays through Thursdays (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.), from anywhere in Westport to the Senior Center.

Wheels2U ride service. (Photo/Rick Jaffe)

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The Westport Democtratic Town Committee needs one Planning & Zoning Commission candidate, to fill its slate for the November election.

The application deadline is August 15. Interested registered Democrats should send a statement and bio or resume to mgordon906@gmail.com.

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We get more deer photos than any other type of “Westport … Naturally” submission.

There’s no room for most of them, unfortunately. (There’s also no room for any of them in our gardens, but that’s a different post.)

Here is one that made the cut:

Greens Farms wetlands (Photo/John Fanuko)

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And finally … on this date in 1981, MTV began broadcasting in the US. The very first video was:

(Video killed the radio star. With our readers’ help, “06880” will keep hyper-local journalism alive. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Politics, Real estate, Transportation

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O’Day, Moore: After Hamlet Vote, Time To Reassess

Posted on July 29, 2025 | 30 comments

Don O’Day is a former Board of Education chair. He led the Coleytown Middle School renovation, and currently serves on the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) and Long Lots School Building Committee.

Andrea Moore is Westport’s 2nd selectwoman. She is a former Board of Finance vice chair and former RTM member.

They are running on the Republican ticket for the Board of selectmen. In the wake of last night’s Planning & Zoning Commission decision on The Hamlet at Saugatuck, they say:

ROAN Ventures’ proposal to build a mixed-use waterfront development called The Hamlet was denied by the Planning & Zoning Commission last night.

This has been a long and difficult process — for Westport residents, the P&Z, and ROAN Ventures. But make no mistake: Last night’s decision by the P&Z is not the end of the road. Far from it.

The Hamlet plan was denied last night. But discussion of what comes next for Saugatuck will continue.

Westport’s leaders, property owners and residents must now consider the next steps. The O’Day–Moore campaign for selectmen sees two:

The applicant withdraws and resubmits a new Hamlet proposal.

This is our preferred outcome.

Very often, a denial — however frustrating — is simply one step on the road to a mutually agreeable solution. Come November, Westport will have new members and leadership across our local government. With new faces may come fresh thinking, and new ideas should be on the table. Thoughtful suggestions recently offered by several respected members of the community deserve serious evaluation.

Let’s also acknowledge that developers seek a return on investment. Investor profitability isn’t about greed; it is a basic reality of business — but by no means guaranteed. It is why people risk personal capital.

The O’Day–Moore campaign views this moment not as a final rejection, but as an opportunity to move forward constructively, with the knowledge that development in the Saugatuck area is a positive outcome. Importantly, the O’Day–Moore pledge is that all development must consider the myriad concerns raised by residents during the many hearings held on this issue.

The applicant moves ahead with a large-scale 8-30g project.

We hope this does not happen.

First and foremost, threats — explicit or implied — make resolution harder. We urge a tone of collaboration, not confrontation.

As we all know, Connecticut’s 8-30g statute allows developers to bypass local zoning regulations in towns where less than 10% of housing is considered affordable. A massive 8-30g development in Saugatuck could place significant strain on Westport’s infrastructure—particularly our schools, roads and other vital services.

One possible 8-30g proposal for Saugatuck.

ROAN Ventures’ Hamlet proposal was not presented under the terms of the 8-30g statute. Therefore, it went through a robust local process where zoning protections applied.

Losing local control through a state override is not in our town’s best interest.

Let us be clear: Affordable housing must be part of Westport’s future. If elected, the O’Day–Moore team is committed to working with the Planning & Zoning Commission to promote an affordable housing provision in town and a cohesive zoning plan for Westport.

On Traffic: Let’s Try Solutions — Now

Traffic in Saugatuck is a known and daily frustration. Commuters rushing to or from the train experience it. So do parents, business owners and visitors.

Interestingly, the Hamlet proposal included ideas to reduce congestion while adding density — something that may sound counterintuitive but merits exploration. Proposals such as smart traffic-light management (via remote monitoring), converting one-way streets to two-way, or other design tweaks deserve immediate consideration.

If we can implement even a few of these ideas and they help — why wait?

ROAN Ventures offered several ideas for traffic mitigation and improvement.

A Path Forward

Reopening this discussion will require a willingness to begin again — by both sides. A reassessment period makes sense. Then let’s return to the table with a shared goal: smart planning for Westport’s future.

Let’s find a collaborative path forward.

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Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck

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