News

Employee Recognition

(Southbury Police Department photo)

Several members of the Southbury Police Department were recently honored at the 40th Annual MADD Law Enforcement Recognition Ceremony. Officer Tyler Sullivan was recognized for his exceptional dedication to DUI enforcement and prevention, and Officer Kareem El-Ayoub was also recognized for the third consecutive year. Retired Officer Kevin Burns received the MADD Community Service Award, recognizing a career that included 1,590 DUI arrests and 25 MADD awards, along with his continued volunteer service across Connecticut. Congratulations and thank you for all you do.

Southbury Celebration

On October 3, I had the pleasure of attending the Southbury Celebration with nearly 5,000 other people who came out to celebrate our wonderful town. The fireworks were spectacular. I'd also like to thank Selectwoman Kelly Keenan who created the photo stand that I saw featured in so many photos people shared. She has helped families capture fun moments with the creativity and time she donated to the effort. Thank you, Kelly. And thank you again to the Southbury Celebration Committee Chair Brian Jones, Emergency Management Director Steve Schnell, the event’s MC and Parks and Recreation Commissioner Jim Tornatore, Fire Marshal Derrek Guertin, Digital Communications Specialist Gosia Liedlich, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, the performers, and everyone who devotes time and talent to this annual event. Click to see more photos from the event.

B'nai Israel Brotherhood Award

(B'nai Israel Brotherhood photos)

On October 4, I was honored to attend the B'nai Israel Brotherhood event. The Brotherhood was kind enough to allow me to reflect on my first 10 months in office and discuss both challenges and accomplishments along the way. I was humbled to receive their Dedicated Leader Award. Thank you to the organization for this recognition and for their efforts to bring knowledge, connection, and inclusivity to our community.

Town Improvements

A few weeks ago, I started a personal volunteer project to repair the wooden boardwalks on the White Trail at Platt Park and Janie Pierce Park. After a few weekends of work with fellow volunteers pitching in, and an interesting standoff with an inquisitive, 350-pound black bear, I am happy to report that the repairs are nearly complete.

You may also have noticed that Town Hall looks especially good. The building has been power washed, the entrance doors are being freshly painted, and new landscaping has been added near the lower parking lot entrance.

Inside Town Hall, architectural lighting that had not been functioning for at least a decade has been repaired. The result is a brighter, more welcoming building that better reflects the original design of Town Hall and improves the experience for both residents and employees.

I'd like to recognize our new Buildings and Grounds Director, Bill Hahn, for leading these improvements, and the Buildings and Grounds employees for their endeavors in accomplishing these repairs and upgrades.

Sidewalk Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, October 15, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new sidewalk connection between Main Street South and the Southbury Public Library. This project improves accessibility and pedestrian safety while completing a sidewalk between Main Street South and Heritage Road. Representative Jahana Hayes shared her appreciation for being able to help support the library and further the goals of community safety and connection. Rob LaBonne, owner of Southbury Storage, spoke about his dedication to public safety. Willie Nininger sang an updated Southbury sidewalk composition - watch it here.

Thank you, Representative Hayes, for securing the federal grant funding for Southbury to add this sidewalk and which pays for the further improvements to the pedestrian crossings on Main Street South at Southbury Green, Rob LaBonne who donated the land, Willie Nininger for his entertainment, Southbury Baking Company for delicious treats, Head Librarian Heather Aronson for beverages and providing room for the reception afterward, and to Noreen Thompson and Betsy Rosa in the First Selectman's Office for putting it all together. Also, thank you to everyone who attended - it was gratifying to see everyone there supporting safety, the library, and walkability. I am delighted to see the number of people already using the sidewalk. Click to see more photos from the ceremony.

Election Information

Early voting began on October 19, and Election Day is November 3. Residents can find information about voting locations, voting hours, absentee ballots, and registration on the Town website or by contacting the Registrars of Voters. I encourage everyone to find out everything you need to know to participate in our democratic process.

Transfer Station Traffic Pattern Change

This week, a new traffic pattern was implemented at the Transfer Station to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for residents and staff. Please visit the Town website before your next visit to familiarize yourself with the changes and note the helpful new signs that will be posted at the Transfer Station.

Town Events

The Southbury Police Department is holding an event for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. On October 24 from 10 am to 2 pm, you can bring your unused or expired prescription and over the counter medication to the police station. The service is free and anonymous and keeps medications from posing potential safety and health hazards through other methods of disposal.

The Southbury America 250th Committee is hosting a Shadrach Osborn Trivia Night. Shadrach Osborn was Southbury's first - First Selectman. Join fellow Southbury residents in a fun atmosphere at the Tavern at Heritage Hotel on October 30 from 4 to 7 pm. Test your Southbury history knowledge, sample bourbon from the Litchfield Distillery, and maybe even opt to embrace the Halloween spirit by coming in historical dress or any other costume.