POLICE & FIRE
New GFD Recruit
The Greenwich Fire Department welcomes recruit Lester Gilman, who has begun training at the Connecticut Fire Academy on Monday. Gilman’s contribution to the town’s safety mission is eagerly anticipated.
FROM TOWN HALL
Kill All Spotted Lanternflies on Sight
To combat the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (SLF), immediate action is recommended upon sighting. Squashing the insect is advised. For egg masses found on trees, carefully scrape them off and place them in a bag mixed with dish soap for proper disposal. Using a dish soap and water mixture can be an effective eradication method when sprayed directly on the SLF or their eggs. Vigilant inspection of materials, especially vehicles, is crucial when moving items between areas, as SLFs are known hitchhikers. Regular inspections before departing can help prevent their spread.
Sustainability and Climate Resiliency Plan Survey
The town is developing a Sustainability and Climate Resiliency Plan. The plan aims to identify climate-related issues and propose mitigation and adaptation strategies for individuals, neighborhoods, and the entire community. The Town of Greenwich Conservation Commission is seeking public feedback to help shape this Climate Action Plan, gather data, and prioritize key topics and action plans. The survey can be found here: https://www.greenwichct.gov/1927/Greenwich-Sustainability-Climate-Resilie
BoS Unanimously Approves 5-Yr Ext. for Property Tax Relief
The Board of Selectmen has unanimously approved a five-year extension for the property tax relief program, benefiting seniors aged 65 and older and totally/permanently disabled homeowners. Pending approval from the Board of Estimate and Taxation and the Representative Town Meeting, the program will now run until June 30, 2029. COA members stressed its significance in assisting seniors with limited incomes to remain in the community. Previously, the program featured sunset clauses and was expanded in 2019 to include disabled homeowners.
Survey from DPS
The Department of Parking Services is conducting a survey tailored for Residential Zone parking permit holders in the Town. The aim is to gather input on the development of a policy for Temporary Residential Zone Construction Parking Permits, ensuring fairness and reasonable fees. They seek to strike a balance between community needs and policy implementation success. The survey is accessible online and will be open until Wednesday, September 15. Survey: https://www.greenwichct.gov/2319/Department-of-Parking-Services-Surveys
Share-the-Fare Program Launches
The Greenwich Commission on Aging’s Share-the-Fare Program offers subsidized transportation for residents aged 62 and older in collaboration with Greenwich Taxi and Uber. Participants can use Greenwich Taxi vouchers or Uber cards to book rides, expanding transportation options without replacing existing ones. They can buy five $10 Greenwich Taxi vouchers for $30 (up to 10 per month) or $50 Uber cards for $30 (up to 2 per month), capped at $100 monthly. Registration with age and residency verification is required, with payment accepted via credit card or check. Appointments are available for vouchers or card purchases.
Wesskam Ridge Road Bridge Project Update
The sheath pile wall installation phase has successfully concluded, achieving its primary objective of temporarily impeding water ingress into the construction zone. Subsequently, the contractor commenced the dismantling of the abutment walls and initiated site preparations for the forthcoming installation of H piles. These H piles are pivotal components in the forthcoming bridge foundation construction.
Building Zone Regulation Updates
The Greenwich Municipal Code Building Zone Regulations have changed recently. Read through the updated Building Zone Regulations here: https://www.greenwichct.gov/442/Building-Zone-Regulations
AROUND TOWN
Litter Buckets Available at Tod’s Point
Greenwich’s Sustainability Committee introduces a litter bucket initiative at Tod’s Point to preserve its beauty. Conveniently located near the concession stand, visitors can use designated buckets to combat littering, emphasizing community responsibility and environmental stewardship. Residents and visitors are urged to participate in keeping Tod’s Point clean and preserving its natural charm.
BBB Identifies New Scam, Voice Phishing
The Better Business Bureau has identified a concerning trend involving scam calls in which the caller asks, “Can you hear me?” The goal is to elicit a “Yes” response, which can later be used to make it appear as if the recipient authorized a purchase. While no monetary losses have been reported thus far, the long-term impact remains uncertain. To protect against such scams, the BBB advises using Caller ID, not answering unfamiliar numbers, responding with questions, reporting suspicious calls, and considering joining the Do Not Call Registry. Additionally, monitoring bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges is recommended to guard against potential fraud.
Greenwich Sign Regulations Considered
Greenwich is revamping its sign regulations, particularly concerning nighttime landscape lighting, as the existing 1993 ordinance is outdated. Public discussions are ongoing, with a key debate centering on the proposed ban on landscape lighting. While some residents and businesses utilize outdoor lighting to enhance their properties at night, concerns about its impact on wildlife, particularly birds and insects, have arisen. The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a teleconferenced meeting on September 7 to address these changes, aiming to elevate the town’s built environment while preserving its historic charm.
LOCAL BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Planet Pizza Open
Planet Pizza, a family-owned Fairfield County pizzeria chain, opened its new Greenwich location last Friday after relocating due to the train station project. The new space at 139 W. Putnam Ave. offers improved parking in the same shopping center as Stop & Shop. The menu and staff will remain the same. Planet Pizza is known for its generational pizza-making recipe.
Greenwich Hospital Performs First Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Greenwich Hospital has recently performed its first total knee replacement surgeries with robotic assistance. Surgeons believe this technology will enhance the quality of life for patients by facilitating faster recovery and improving the functionality and durability of knee replacements. Robotic assistance provides surgeons with valuable data during procedures, potentially addressing unresolved questions in orthopedics and yielding better patient outcomes. This development reflects the rapidly evolving field of orthopedic surgery, with robotic technology offering greater precision and the potential to revolutionize knee replacement surgery.
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Closes all US Stores
High-end furniture brand Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams has abruptly closed all US stores, including its Greenwich location, resulting in the layoffs of 533 employees in North Carolina. The closure stems from financial challenges in the furniture industry and an inability to secure financing. Co-founder Mitchell Gold, who briefly returned this year, aims to raise funds to revive operations.
PEOPLE IN TOWN
Armstrong Ct Community Room Dedicated to Winston A. Robinson
Greenwich Communities is hosting a ceremony tomorrow, Saturday, September 9, at 10:00 am to dedicate the new community room at Armstrong Court to the late Winston A. Robinson, a former resident and community leader. Robinson, who passed away on January 26, is being honored for his 35-year commitment to the community and the Town of Greenwich. He served as a housing manager at Greenwich Communities and was actively involved in various civic organizations, leaving a lasting impact on the town. The public is invited to attend the dedication event. For inquiries, contact Maria Morris at mmorris@greenwichcommunity.org or (203) 869-1138, ext. 101.
Edward Schachter Celebrating 100th Birthday
Edward Schachter, who immigrated to Greenwich in 1956, is marking his 100th birthday on September 10th. He transformed Richards clothing store into a prestigious local fashion hub. After escaping the Nazis from Cologne, Germany, and serving in WWII, Schachter ventured into the retail business in Greenwich. With his daughter Susan Fleisher, they elevated the store to carry luxury brands like Hermes and Hugo Boss. The Mitchell family acquired the store in 1995. The town will proclaim September 10th as “Eddie Schachter Day” to honor his contribution to reshaping Greenwich Avenue.
SCHOOLS
GHS Ranks Ninth in CT, 351st in USA
Greenwich High School achieved a strong ranking, placing ninth in Connecticut and 351st nationally in the latest U.S. News & World Report assessment. The rankings considered various factors, including college readiness and graduation rate. Remarkably, Greenwich High School ranked fourth in the state for state assessment performance, highlighting its commitment to diverse student success. Other top-performing schools in Fairfield County included Darien High School, Weston High School, and New Canaan High School, while Marine Science Magnet High School of Southeastern in Groton claimed the top spot in Connecticut.
Old Greenwich Kicks off the School Year with a Walk
Old Greenwich School’s Principal, Jen Bencivengo, organized an innovative back-to-school event, inviting the entire school community and prominent figures like Board of Education Chair Joe Kelly and State Rep Steve Meskers to join in a community walk at Tod’s Point. Approximately 75 participants, including families on Dutch bikes, scooters, and the school mascot, Mack the Dolphin, enjoyed perfect weather during the gathering. Participants displayed their school spirit by donning blue and white attire. Bencivengo highlighted the school’s coastal identity, deeming the park walk an ideal way to kick off the new school year.
WMS Celebrates School Staff with BBQ
Western Middle School’s new principal, Dr. PJ Wax, kicked off the school year with a unique New Year-themed celebration for the staff. Despite a rainy start, the day turned sunny in time for a BBQ featuring burgers and hot dogs, hosted by Dr. Wax and his assistant principals. Dr. Wax expressed his desire for this event to become a yearly tradition to appreciate the hard work of the school staff. The school also hosted supply pickups and an ice cream social to familiarize students with the campus before the start of the new school year.
Sacred Heart Seeks Approval for Turf Putting Green & Other Notes
Convent of the Sacred Heart seeks approval for a synthetic turf putting green and an outdoor woodchip classroom with nature observation areas on their 109-acre property in Greenwich. The proposal caters to student-athletes needing a practice space for golf shots and opts for synthetic turf for easier maintenance. Plans also include a rain garden and habitat enhancement. The application awaits review by the Wetlands agency and awaits scheduling for a Planning & Zoning Commission meeting.
Sacred Heart Celebrates 175 Years
Sacred Heart Greenwich, the only all-girls, faith-based school in town, marks its impressive 175th year of providing education. Guided by its core values, the school emphasizes empowerment and leadership. President Michael F. Baber underscores their mission of nurturing purposeful and principled lives. Students excel in diverse areas, from academics to community service. In celebration of its 175th anniversary, the school invites prospective families to attend Fall Open Houses and Admission Tour Days.
SPORTS
GHS Girls Soccer Preps 2023
Greenwich High School’s varsity girls soccer team is gearing up for the 2023 season after a successful 2022 campaign. They achieved a record of 9-5-5, reaching the FCIAC Tournament semifinals and the Round of 16 in the CIAC Class LL state Tournament. Despite graduating several players, the team retains experienced athletes and welcomes newcomers. The Cardinals aim to build on their momentum, and Coach Simon Rumbold emphasizes the importance of the senior captains, who bring significant experience to the squad.
SH Field Hockey 2023 Preparations Begin
Sacred Heart Greenwich’s varsity field hockey team, led by senior captains Emma Marvin, Charly Nemec, and Payton Sfreddo, is preparing for the 2023 season. After losing key seniors from last year’s successful squad, the team is focused on growth and development. With a strong history in the NEPSAC’s FAA league and a 2022 record of 15-4, they aim to rebuild with their young team and captain’s leadership. Despite the challenges, the Tigers are optimistic and determined to succeed.
GCDS Football Season Prep in Progress
Greenwich Country Day School’s football team is gearing up for their third varsity season, aiming to build on their success from the previous year. With a record of 3-6 last season, they have their sights set on improving and making it to postseason games. The team is captained by seniors Jesse Ripka, Cooper Edwards, and Bailey Gendason, who have been part of the program since its inception. They are looking forward to playing their first game at the new Offit Field on Cardinal Road and have a strong focus on both their offense and defense this season.
LOCAL POLITICS
Item 29 Could Shake Up the BOE
Item 29, introduced during the September 18 RTM call, seeks to revamp the Greenwich Board of Education’s composition, promoting “competition and accountability.” Bill Lewis led the effort, securing 28 signatures from six families. The proposal cites Connecticut General Statute 9-204b, which could enable inter-party competition for school board seats, limiting either Republicans or Democrats to five of eight seats. The objective is to reduce partisanship, resolve chair tie votes, and bolster democratic representation. Item 29 has been referred to the Education Committee and Legislative & Rules Committee for review.
LWV Debates
The League of Women Voters of Greenwich has announced plans to host three debates in preparation for the municipal election on November 7. Candidates from both political parties for positions on the Board of Selectmen, Board of Education, and Board of Estimate and Taxation have committed to participating. These debates will be held in the Greenwich Town Hall Meeting Room, with limited in-person attendance and remote viewing options. Audience questions will be submitted in advance, reviewed by a bipartisan screening committee, and posed to the candidates during the debates.
FROM HARTFORD
Gov. Lamont Nominates CT Supreme Court Justice
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has nominated Nora R. Dannehy for the role of Associate Justice on the Connecticut Supreme Court, filling the vacancy left by Maria Araújo Kahn. Dannehy, recognized for her anti-corruption efforts and extensive legal career, including being the first woman U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, has garnered bipartisan support. Her nomination is currently before the Connecticut General Assembly for consideration.
