Tag Archives: State Representative Jonathan Steinberg

Roundup: Lights, Dogs, Shellfishing …

Posted on September 9, 2026 | 3 comments

From athletes and environmentalists to dog lovers, deli patrons and anyone interested in Saugatuck, Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting has something for everyone.

The September 14 (6 p.m.; Zoom) agenda includes:

  • Pre-application for a subdivision on Dogwood Lnae
  • Lights on Wakeman and PJ Romano Fields
  • Text amendment to permit fenced recreational dog play
  • Text amendment regarding outdoor eating and the sale of alcohol in a new Food and Beverage Planned Development District
  • Map amendment to rezone 11 properties from General Business District/ Saugatuck Marina to a proposed General Business District/Saugatuck.

Click here for the full agenda. Click here, then scroll down for background information on each item. 

The P&Z will again discuss lights on the turf Wakeman Field.

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“06880” readers are not shy about telling us when someone is up to no good.

Illegal tree cutting, inconsiderate e-bike riders, ill-mannered dogs in supermarkets — we hear it all.

But somehow we missed what seems to be the biggest story of the summer.

At least, according to the Connecticut Centinal.

The oddly spelled site — which Media Bias/Fact Check calls “an extreme right-biased imposter website (rated) Questionable based on the promotion of propaganda, conspiracy theories, pseudoscience, poor sourcing, and false claims” — recently published a “BREAKING EXCLUSIVE: Illegals Raping Natural Resources In Westport, Cops Don’t Care, Town Doesn’t Care, State Doesn’t Care.”

The story (by “Staff Writer”) says, “There are a lot of people in Westport, CT who profess to care for the environment, or is that just a control mechanism to gain political power?

“Because, no one cares in Westport when their environment is being destroyed as long as its [sic] being done by illegal aliens. By the hundreds. Every Night. Till there is nothing left.”

After noting state and town shellfishing regulations — including permits, size and sunrise to sunset limits — the site claims: “illegal night harvesting is happening at a massive scale in Westport, and across the state.

“‘Unbelievable, isn’t it? Take a ride by old Mill and look at the Spanish guys with Minor’s [sic] hats on, responded one resident we asked who lives in the Compo Beach area when asked if what was going on nightly is legal.

“There’s no blue crabs left. No steamers. No Clams. No mussels.

“Another resident of Old Mill told us, ‘There’s nothing left, they stripped the place clean.'”

The story concludes, “It would be nice if all those environmentalists in Westport actually cared. Mother nature is screaming for help.”

Click here for the full story.

This photo was captioned “Illegals night harvesting at Old Mill Beach, Westport, CT.” (Photo courtesy of CT Centinal)

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The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters — founded by Westporters Julie Belaga and Russ Brenneman 26 years ago — has chosen another local for a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jonathan Steinberg, Westport’s outgoing state representative — will be honored October 9 (6 p.m., Elm City Club, New Haven).

CTLCV calls him “a leading voice in the Connecticut General Assembly on clean energy, environmental protection, and public health for more than 15 years. He has played a key role in major environmental efforts, including the plastic bag ban, fracking waste moratorium, GMO labeling, and microplastics legislation, while consistently advancing renewable energy, solar power, and utility accountability.

“As House chair of both the Public Health Committee and the Energy & Technology Committee, Jonathan helped shape modern energy policy and led the charge on the State Water Plan to ensure Connecticut’s waters remain protected.”

He is one of 4 awardees. The other are State Senator Tony Hwang, State Representative Mary Mushinsky and New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker.

CTLCV board member Pippa Bell Ader, and former members Eileen Lavigne and Ken Bernhard — all of Westport — invite residents to click here for more information on the dinner.

State Representative Jonathan Steinberg

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The latest reports from Lyman, Ukraine are somewhat encouraging.

Russian forces have not succeeded in capturing Westport’s sister city. In fact, Ukrainian troops have pushed Russians back in some areas north of Lyman.

But Russian forces continue offensive operations. Fighting could intensify this fall. (Hat tip: Robert Gerrity)

Recent damage in Lyman. (Photo/Tyler Hicks for New York Times)

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Jerry Garcia can’t be at VFW Post 399 this Saturday, September 12. (He died in 1995.)

But the next best thing — The Mystery Train Band — will pay tribute to the Grateful Dead icon. They also play Bob Dylan, The Band, The Beatles, Van Morrison and other classic artists.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the music starts at 7:30. Tickets are $10, at the door or online. Pizza, hot dogs and drink specials are available too.

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Kawa Ni’s very popular “Paint + Sip” events continue this month.

Artists — of any and all levels — are invited to the restaurant’s rooftop garden. There, Lauren Smith leads them in a special event, overlooking the Saugatuck River.

For $56 you get painting supplies, an 8″x10″ canvas, and Kawa Ni fare. Wine, sake and cocktails are available for purchase.

The next 2 events are September 16 and 30. Click here to register. 

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The Service League of Boys (SLOBs) is Staples High School’s largest club.

As the school year begins, they’re looking for new members. Students and parents are welcome.

The organization promotes leadership through community service. You’ve probably seen them helping out at many events, all over town.

Students and parents are invited to a meeting next Tuesday (September 15, 7:30 p.m., Staples cafeteria). For more information, click here, follow them on Instagram @shsslobs, or email president@shsslobs.com.

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Jazz at the Post kicks off its fall season tomorrow (Thursday, VFW Post 399; dinner service from 6:45 p.m.; shows at 7:30 and 8:45).

Pianist Janice Friedman presents a new program, including creative touches on music by Paul Simon, Billie Eilish and Amy Winehouse, as well as her own originals.

Friedman has played with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall since the late 1980s. They’ll be joined by bassist Dave Kingsnorth and drummer Mike Campenni. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Whether Westport is figuratively for the birds is up for debate.

But for literal proof, look no further than today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo, from Compo’s South Beach:

(Photo/Ken Schwarz)

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And finally … in honor of Jerry Garcia’s (tribute) appearance at the VFW (item above):

(It’s no mystery: “06880” relies on support from readers like you. If you appreciate these daily Roundups — or anything else on our hyper-local blog — please click here to donate. Thank you all!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Politics, Staples HS

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Mandell Enters State Rep Race

Posted on March 9, 2026 | 3 comments

The first candidate has declared an intention to succeed Jonathan Steinberg as Westport’s state representative.

Matthew Mandell — a 20-year member of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), and the longtime executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — today announced his candidacy for in the 136th District.

Calling himself an advocate for open space preservation and historic protection, Mandell released a video outlining his priorities and reasons for seeking the seat.

In the video he emphasizes the importance of maintaining local control over town planning decisions, while also addressing the need for additional affordable and workforce housing in Westport.

He points to his decades of civic involvement and grassroots leadership as preparation for representing the community in Hartford.

Matthew Mandell

“I have always had Westport’s best interests in mind,” Mandell says. “From preserving the Partrick Wetlands and saving the Kemper Gunn House to creating unique town festivals and most recently spearheading the establishment of an Affordable Housing Fund, I have worked to strengthen this community. I believe I can do even more for Westport by serving at the state level.”

Mandell says his campaign will focus on listening closely to residents and community stakeholders, gathering their concerns and ideas, and working collaboratively to move thoughtful solutions forward.

Additional priorities include strengthening consumer advocacy for residents, and advancing environmental initiatives such as expanded alternative energy and improved recycling and sustainability programs.

Click here or below for the full video.

3 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Politics

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[OPINION]: $2.6 Billion Bus Has No Brakes

Posted on February 25, 2026 | 6 comments

Marc Lemcke is a Westport resident, and a close observer of Aquarion.

Yesterday, he attended a hearing in Hartford on the proposed sale of the water utility. He writes:

You’re driving a bus at 110 miles an hour, when you see a wall in front of you. You cannot stop. Everyone on board knows: This will not end well.

Yesterday’s hearing before the Connecticut Energy and Technology Committee felt like that.

The proposed $2.6 billion sale of Aquarion Water Company to the Regional Water Authority carries enormous risk — and committee members know it.

The “bus driver” is committee co-chair Jonathan Steinberg, Westport’s state representative.

He is probably the least to blame, having warned early about the risks. Yet all eyes are on him, to see whether he can avert what could become a disaster.

The odds are squarely against him. Here’s why.

Hartford’s rushed enabling legislation, passed in an emergency session in 2024, created the state’s largest public agency. It would be financed entirely through $2.6 billion in debt. Not partially. Entirely.

Aquarion reported net income of just $33 million in 2023, according to the Connecticut Mirror. That’s the math.

The state Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) rejected the deal.

However, the Superior Court found that PURA misapplied the statute — essentially ruling that the regulator must operate within the legislature’s framework, not independently of it.

Next week, PURA — with newly appointed commissioners — will issue a revised draft decision and may approve the deal, pointing to the 2024 enabling legislation.

To be clear: at a lower price, this deal could offer many advantages for Westport ratepayers. RWA has strong water quality, is innovative, and serves customers rather than investors.

Meanwhile, the town  focuses heavily on Aquarion’s property tax payments — which we fund through our water bills, and which will decline over time under public ownership.

The sale of Aquarion is a textbook example of what journalist Dan Davies calls an “accountability sink” — a situation in which responsibility is diffused across complex systems, making it nearly impossible to determine who is accountable when Aquarion is in trouble.

Much now rests with Representative Steinberg. At the end of a long legislative career, he finds himself again at the center of Connecticut’s utility universe — driving a bus carrying more than 200,000 passengers.

We can only wish ourselves luck — and start preparing for much higher water bills, while considering more water-friendly gardens. That may not be entirely bad.

(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Submissions may be sent to 06880blog@gmail.com.)

6 Comments

Posted in Environment, Politics

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Steinberg Won’t Run Again; Mandell To Seek State Rep Seat

Posted on January 9, 2026 | 11 comments

After 16 years, Westport will have a new representative in Hartford.

CT Mirror broke the story yesterday that Jonathan Steinberg — the 1974 Staples High School graduate, who has represented the 136th District for 8 terms — will not seek re-election to the General Assembly’s House of Representatives.

State Representative Jonathan Steinberg

Steinberg said that he told fellow Democrats in Westport of his plans months ago. Until the online service asked though, he said he had “been able to avoid it being broadcast across the globe.”

The news broke when Matthew Mandell — a Representative Town Meeting member, and executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — registered to run for the seat on Wednesday.

“It’s been a long time,” Steinberg said. “I think I’ve had a good run … My wife retired in October. She’s happily retired at home. I’ll be 70 in a few weeks. Seems like the right time.”

Steinberg’s current term ends next January.

Mandell told “06880” he will make a formal announcement of his candidacy soon.

Click here for the full CT Mirror story.

Matthew Mandell

 

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Posted in Politics

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Westport’s Water: “A Sobering View”

Posted on November 17, 2025 | 5 comments

Marc Lemcke is a Westport resident, and a close observer of water utility Aquarion’s presence in town.

Last Thursday, he attended a community discussion about water. He calls it “a sobering view of Westport’s water future.” Marc writes:

Thank you to Valerie Seiling Jacobs, Robert Harrington and our expert State Representative Jonathan Steinberg for your role in the discussion.

Below are 5 key takeaways:

1. The North Avenue tanks are a symptom of failed oversight.

  • They are not only part of a broader water system, but a manifestation of a larger problem: failed utility oversight.
  • The tanks were never designed for Westport’s specific water challenges, despite the water company’s claims.
  • The water company misled the community and the P&Z to avoid scrutiny of a much larger project: the $200 million Southwest Regional Pipeline Project.
  • The state Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and Department of Public Health were fully aware that this narrative was at best incomplete, and at worst false.
  • Westport’s long-known water challenges are unlikely to see tangible improvements in fire protection any time soon.

North Avenue water tank. (Photo/Richard Fogel)

2. The Town is not honoring the 2019 agreement.

  • As part of a settlement, the town of Westport formally agreed with residents in 2019 to review the project’s impact on Westport. The town is not honoring this agreement.
  • The town has not been responding to questions. Instead, the water company has filed an application with the local Planning & Zoning Commission change the permit and obtain a certificate of project compliance.
  • The town has, in practice, limited transparency around this case and Westport’s broader water challenges.

3. The P&Z application is materially incomplete.

  • The application assumes compliance with permit conditions without providing evidence.
  • Screening as promised was never possible, because of underground pipes.
  • Important comments are missing entirely, including from the Westport Fire Department.
  • The statutory clock was started without taking public testimony.
  • The P&Z has chosen to interpret its jurisdiction very narrowly.

4. Hard-won transparency gains are at risk.

  • Thanks to dedicated public officials and policymakers, the Westport tank project helped trigger important legislative changes (the “Take Back the Grid” Act and SB 7).
  • Many of those public interest professionals have now resigned, face lawsuits, or are no longer running for re-election.
  • Residents and ratepayers have won a few battles, but are at risk of losing the larger war.

5. The sale of Aquarion is a deeper crisis than expected.

  • The $2.6 billion acquisition of our water system by the Regional Water Authority is now emerging as a crisis sooner and deeper than many expected.
  • Aquarion’s 2022 rate case effectively ended an unsustainable business model, and Eversource ran for the door.
  • Previously unknown to many of us: Representative Steinberg said that the State “guaranteed” Eversource a $200 million profit on its sale of Aquarion. This guarantee raises serious questions.

Click here for a recording of the meeting, background material and contact information.

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Roundup: Long Lots Groundbreaking, Selectman’s Debate, Halloween Parade …

Posted on October 15, 2025 | 20 comments

It’s official!

A crowd of around 100 gathered at Long Lots Elementary School yesterday, for the ceremonial “groundbreaking” for the new facility.

Dignitaries made speeches. They looked back on the long process leading up to the afternoon — and looked ahead at the modern building that will rise next to the current, 70-year-old one.

Jay Keenan, chair of the Long Lots School Building Committee, speaks. Looking on (from left): 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, the Long Lots Lion, LLSBC member Don O’Day, Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein, superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice. 

Then the real action began.

Students — some of whom will enjoy the new school when it is finished, others who will have already moved on to middle school — picked up shovels.

They dug into a pile of dirt.

(Photos/Andrew Colabella)

And then — led by the Long Lots Lion — everyone cheered.

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Toquet Hall — the town’s teen center — was filled last night, for the Westport Youth Commission’s first-ever 1st selectman’s debate.

Nearly 100 students, and a couple of dozen adults, heard the 3 candidates for the top job talk about their experience, vision, priorities and goals.

Some of the questions from Youth Commission members Jake Shufro and Jack Thompson were teen-specific. Many touched on broader topics, from Saugatuck development to the environment.

Asked to name a difficult decision they’d grappled with, Don O’Day cited the controversy over the Community Gardens, as a member of the Long Lots School Building Committee. Kevin Christie mentioned his decision to recuse himself during the soccer coaches’ non-renewal appeal. David Rosenwaks discussed his choice to leave the Democratic Party, and run as an independent.

1st selectman candidates at Toquet Hall (from left): Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks, Kevin Christie. (Photo/Lee Shufro)

In terms of the legacy they hoped to leave, Rosenwaks said, “respect for the town’s heritage, providing for the future, and a careful capital plan.” Christie said, “a place where everyone feels heard, and more proactive and decisive planning.” O’Day said, “a well-managed town where residents know what’s going on and feel better, and a well-managed tax base.”

Part of the Toquet Hall crowd. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The event was co-sponsored by the Westport League of Women Voters.

Youth Commission moderators Jack Thompson and Jake Shufro. (Photo/Lee Shufro)

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Trick or treat!

One of Westport’s great traditions — the Westport Downtown Association and Westport PAL Halloween parade — kicks off October 29 (3:30 p.m.).

It begins on Main Street, and continues right onto Avery Place, then left on Myrtle Avenue to Veterans Green. Children (recommended for kids up to age 8 can trick or treat along Main Street, and in Town Hall.

The Parks & Recreation Department provides refreshments, a small gift kids, and entertainment from DJ Kenny Michaels.

Seen at a previous parade.

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“06880”‘s Instagram Live series with selectman candidates continues at noon today (Wednesday). Our Instagram is @06880danwoog.

Democratic Kevin Christie and his running mate Amy Wistreich are the guests. Republican-endorsed Don O’Day and Andrea Moore, and Independent David Rosenwaks were interviewed previously.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.

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Josh Suggs graduated from Staples High School just 4 years ago.

But he’s already been featured in the Wall Street Journal.

A story yesterday, headlined “Inside Advertising’s Most Grueling New Genre: ‘You Have to Have Zero Social Anxiety’” — featured Suggs’ year-old business: 203 Media.

They specialize in “street interview ads, clips of real people reacting to a product or service that companies pay to insert into social media feeds.”

The story says:

Suggs didn’t invent the concept, although he’s one of very few marketing executives to go all-in on the format. Man-on-the-street interviews have existed since the invention of radio and TV news, and political campaigns and consumer marketers have occasionally used the format in their advertising. …

Advertisers soon followed the (YouTube and TikTok) trend, paying creators to place products in their shoots. Social media agencies and user-generated content studios eventually began offering street interview ads as a service.

Suggs is betting that demand for real, unscripted videos will increase as ads made with generative AI proliferate, and consumers grow weary of influencers’ typical paid-for posts. The widening pool of media channels and platforms also means that advertisers have to battle harder for consumers’ attention than ever before, he said.

“Your ads cannot look like ads anymore,” Suggs said. “Nobody wants scripted, inauthentic, staged commercials—people trust real opinions, real emotions.”

Click here for the full story.

Josh Suggs

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Sierra Club Connecticut and State Representative Jonathan Steinberg invite residents to a community walk at Earthplace.

The October 21 event (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.) blends nature, conversation and action. The mile walk will include exploration of the local ecology, a discussion of important environmental issues and legislation — and picking up trash.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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Speaking of the environment … what could be more appropriate for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo than this beauty, standing tall amid wind and falling temperatures, on Soundview Drive?

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Halloween event (story above):

(We love a parade. In fact, the only thing we love more is readers who support their hyper-local blog. It’s easy: Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. We thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Downtown, Environment, Local politics, Media, Staples HS

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Roundup: Soccer Coach’s Filing, Hartford Wrap-Up, Juneteenth Tour …

Posted on June 16, 2025 | 9 comments

Russell Oost-Lievense’s fight continues.

In the wake of last month’s Board of Education hearing to appeal the non-renewal of his contract as Staples High School boys soccer head coach, the 2008 graduate filed a complaint with the state Freedom of Information Commission.

Oost-Lievense said that he intends to challenge the hearing, and the Board’s decision not to renew his contract, in court.

However, he says, he is handicapped in litigation because “the Board unlawfully deliberated my nonrenewal in executive session.” He had repeatedly requested the hearing be held entirely in open session.

Stating that the public and he were deprived of the ability to evaluate and challenge the Board’s decision, he asks that the meeting be declared “null and void.”

Russell Oost-Lievense

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Westport’s delegation in Hartford — State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson — meet constituents tonight (Monday, June 16, 6 p.m.) in the Library’s Komansky Room (behind the stage).

It’s called an “End of Session Town Hall.” The public is invited, to learn about the legislative year that just ended.

From left: Senator Ceci Maher, Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

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The Westport Museum for History & Culture celebrates Juneteenth (Thursday).

At 10 a.m., they’ll offer a guided walking tour through downtown. It’s based on the Museum’s previous exhibit on African Americans in Westport

Museum staff will share stories of soldiers, sailors, activisits, artists and other citizens who helped build this town, while pointing out historic sites and buildings.

Tickets are $10 for Museum members, $15 for non-members. Click here to reserve a spot, and for more information. (Hat tip: Harold Bailey)

A plaque on Elm Street commemorates 22 1/2 Main Street, home to a thriving Black community. In 1950 it burned to the ground, in a suspicious fire.

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Meanwhile, the Levitt Pavilion’s first Comedy Night of 2025 is tomorrow (Tuesday, June 17, 7 p.m.).

The free show is billed as a special “Pride Edition.” Click here for (free) tickets, and more information.

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And … after a brief Yankee Doodle Fair-induced detour to the Levitt pavilion parking lot, the Westport Farmers’ Market returns to its Imperial Avenue home this Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

It was a different venue last week, but the scenes were familiar to its many fans. For example:

Fresh strawberries, and …

… these regulars. They’re there every Thursday from a nearby office, always smiling and looking dapper. (Photos/Lori Cochran-Dougall)

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Congratulations to Adam Friedman!

The Westporter won the 123rd annual Connecticut Amateur golf championship.

The (very large) trophy was nice. Even better: Friedman earns an exemption into this year’s US Amateur event. It’s set for San Francisco’s Olympic Club, in August.

Friedman attended Staples as a freshman, then earned a scholarship to Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy in Florida. He attended Montverde Academy, and graduated in 2016 with high honors. Adam then played at Florida Atlantic University. His home course now is Great River Golf Club in Milford.

Adam Friedman

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Jeffrey Cohen captured this guy yesterday.

No worries … he did it with his camera only.

But it sure is a cute “Westport … Naturally” capture, right?

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And finally … in honor of Jeffrey Cohen’s photo (above):

(Another week, another Roundup … and another request: If you enjoy this — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Westport Voters Keep Connecticut Blue

Posted on November 6, 2024 | 46 comments

As the country moved rightward, Westport voters stayed blue.

With roughly 2/3 (16,042) of the town’s 24,078 registered voters casting ballots, the town’s voters overwhelming re-elected Chris Murphy to the US Senate, Jim Himes to Congress, Ceci Maher to the State Senate, and Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson to the State House of Representatives.

Including 142 new voters who registered yesterday, the town’s rolls show 10,050 Democrats, 9,479 unaffiliated, 4345 Republicans, and 204 in other parties.

The results from Westport:

US Senate: Chris Murphy (D) 11,258; Matthew Corey (R) 4,735; Paglino (Green) 85; Hyde (Cheaper Gas Groceires) 49.

US Congress 4th District: Jim Himes (D) 11,388; Michael Goldstein (R) 4,696; Wesley (I) 163.

State Senate District 26: Ceci Maher (D) 10,616; Kami Evans, 5,375.

State House District 136: Jonathan Steinberg (D) 9,418; John Bolton (R) 4,496.

State House District 143: Dominique Johnson (D) 1,394; Peter Bang (R) 633.

Westport voters allowed helped pass a ballot measure to ease absentee voting laws, 9,435 to 3,694.

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Posted in Politics

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Politicians Urge Young People: Do Your Research. Then Vote!

Posted on November 3, 2024 | 6 comments

With Election Day near, both presidential campaigns hope for big youth turnouts.

But other races are on the ballot too. Are young voters interested?

“06880”  interns Avni Krishna and Camille Blundell are. Though too young to vote this year — they’re sophomores at Staples High School — they are involved in the world, and concerned about the future.

Recently, they conducted a series of interviews with local political figures. Then they produced this insightful, informative and important video:

Avni and Camille also write:

A new generation of voters now shares the stress of deciding where their ballots should go. But in this volatile election season, we know that the policies we want reflected in our everyday lives starts at the state level.

It is extremely vital that returning and new voters know their candidates, and pay attention to the down-ballot races.

As high school students who want to see our voices represented, we interviewed candidates Ceci Maher (D) for District 26 State Senate, Jonathan Steinberg (D) and John Bolton (R) for District 136 State Representative, and Westport Democratic Committee chair Michelle Mechanic, to understand how they view young people’s place in politics, and how they hope new voters go about the first execution of their civic responsibility. 

The best place to find information on candidates is https://www.vote411.org/. You can look at the candidates in local elections, research their beliefs and policies, and get to know their backgrounds. 

Younger voters are often apprehensive about going to the polls for the first time. Pressures from society and social media transform into nerves and anxiety for their role in the election. Contrastingly, young people who aren’t old enough to vote want to know how they can have an impact on such an important election.  

We started by speaking to Jonathan Steinberg, running for re-election for the House of Representatives. He detailed the importance of the youth vote and perspective, while also encouraging that, more than anything young voters do their “homework.”

Steinberg’s challenger, House candidate John Bolton, talked about how he and the Republican campaign have gone about canvassing and outreach to the new generation of voters.

Similar to his Democratic counterparts, Bolton warned against the epidemic of fake news on social media, and emphasizes how imperative it is that new and return voters take their time to look into policies and ideology, when deciding who to vote for.

At the Westport Farmers’ Market this summer, young people urged everyone to vote.

State Senator Ceci Maher described the many ways she and her campaign view the incorporation of the youth during the vital moments of the election process.

Maher herself has knocked on around 2,800 doors. Her campaign has knocked on over 5000. “I was lucky to have 65 interns who were students in high school and college.” Maher said.

After attending Ridgefield High School’s mock election and seeing the turnout of young, passionate attendees, Maher reflected on the importance of youth showing up.

“The questions that they asked are important because it shows directionally what are the issues they are interested in, and they’re going to be the next generation of voters. So for me, hearing what they have to say really helps me inform myself when I’m thinking about what legislation is going to look like. I just think they are really important and I don’t want to dismiss them in any way. I just learn so much when I walk through the doors with my interns.”

Maher said that some of the main issues she focuses on are climate change and the safety of children in education, as she has worked on the board of Sandy Hook Promise.

She also recommended that new voters, no matter what their stances are now, thoroughly look into the candidates running so they can find who best represents their views and morals, regardless of what party they lean toward. 

Like her Republican counterpart, Westport Democratic Town Committee chair Michelle Mechanic works behind the scenes of campaigns and canvassing efforts. She detailed the many ways the Democratic Committee has gathered the passions of civically engaged teens, and hopes to utilize young voices. 

Talking to the candidates and the chair of a political committee in Westport, there was a clear common theme: Do your research. Look into the individuals running; don’t just cast a vote blindly, or based on surface level information.

Additionally, understand the impact of youth presence and representation in politics. All the politicians we talked to want younger people involved in campaigns, civic duties, and voicing their concerns, because that is what will cause change.

More than anything, the candidates discussed how the world will be in the hands of the coming generation. It is youth’s responsibility to get as involved now, to push for change in the future. 

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Cribari Bridge Update: No News Is …?

Posted on January 25, 2024 | 31 comments

Between Long Lots Elementary School and Parker Harding Plaza, there hasn’t been much discussion lately on the future of the William F. Cribari Bridge.

But the 135-year-old swing span — historic, beloved, quirky, narrow — is not getting any younger.

William F. Cribari Bridge (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

The state Department of Transportation has spent several years studying the bridge, and planning its replacement. Any new one — if built with state and/or federal funds, that is — would have to meet current standards.

That would probably mean a bigger, wider structure. Meaning: One large enough to accommodate trucks coming off I-95.

Sources say that an environmental assessment is being prepared, though by a different company than originally hired.

The belief is that DOT will recommend replacing — rather than renovating — the existing bridge (which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places).

A long-ago trolley travels over the Cribari Bridge.

There is no new information on the state DOT website. The latest “news” was posted in 2019.

“06880” asked State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, who sits on the Transportation Committee, for a status update. He says:

It goes without saying, with each passing day, it deteriorates further. I don’t know the current status of the supporting piers, but I’d hope that DOT is monitoring and would let us know if it was approaching dangerous condition. And it’s fair to wonder why Westporters tolerate a structure so decrepit looking. Hardly a Westport icon!

In my last casual conversation with my contact at DOT, some months ago, she more or less confirmed their strategy of waiting for the town to respond to the options they put on the table now years ago. DOT sees little benefit in pushing hard for resolution without any partner in town government — at least as long as the bridge remains safe.

Cribari Bridge, looking west. (Photo/Fred Cantor)

In my opinion, our de facto plan to ignore the problem and avoid controversy is yielding to a vocal minority and risking a genuine traffic crisis should that bridge go out of commission for an extended period. Isn’t crossing the river in Westport challenging enough without losing a crossing point?

I believe we can talk through our concerns — such as keeping 18-wheelers from using the bridge — and come up with a satisfactory plan which preserves the bridge’s character while making it safe — actually safer (wider) — for the long hall. Remember: even if we had a plan today, it will take years to implement the fixes, perhaps including a temporary bridge.

So I can’t illuminate current status for you. Ultimately, the first selectwoman bears responsibility for communicating with DOT the town’s preferences and seeking resolution.

I just hope we don’t see a headline to your column reading: “Cribari Bridge closed indefinitely; Westport traffic grinds to a halt.”

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker says: “The issue still sits with the state. I’m asking for an update from them. I’ll with you when I hear from them.”

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