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12/26/2018 06:00 AMHere’s a glimpse at some of the stories making news in Branford in 2018.
January
Branford residents Harrison and Amelia Levy welcome daughter Layla Rose, Connecticut’s the first baby of 2018. As keeper of vital records, Branford Town Clerk Lisa Arpin hosts a small party in the records room at Town Hall and presents the family with a commemorative gift.
The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) votes 15-11 to approve a $5.2 million bonding issue for the Blackstone Memorial Library interior renovation and building addition project, recognizing $1 million will be paid by a Connecticut State Library Grant; while the library’s Campaign for the Blackstone must meet its $800,000 fundraising goal in 2018, with approximately $3.4 million to be paid by the town.
Public listening sessions are set to gather input that will assist in drafting a 2018 update of the Town Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD). An online POCD input survey is also launched.
One week after bonding’s approved for the $5.2 million Blackstone Library project, the Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC) grants a special zoning exception for the project’s 2,000-square foot building addition. The addition will create a new entrance and lobby space from the main parking lot (rear) on the ground floor.
Shoreline Chamber of Commerce welcomes Sheri Cote as its new president. Cote most recently served as vice president of Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce.
The PZC approves plans for The Tidal Lodge, a 33-room boutique hotel in the new Branford River Planned Development District (PDD), at 4-6 Indian Neck Avenue. The hotel will complement the Stony Creek Brewery at 5 Indian Neck Avenue, which is owned and operated by the hotel applicant, Ed Crowley of Branford.
Students at Walsh Intermediate School (WIS) witness living history as 30 candidates for naturalization take the oath to become U.S. citizens during an official naturalization ceremony at the school coordinated by the U.S. Citizenship and Services Field Office.
Sen. Ted Kennedy, Jr. (D-12) is the keynote speaker at the 33rd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast. The breakfast was established in 1985 at by Branford’s St. Stephen’s AME Zion Church and now draws a crowd of more than 200 through the efforts of a committee that has grown to include several shoreline faith organizations.
The Archdiocese of Hartford announces Our Lady of Mercy School (Madison) will close next year and merge with Branford’s St. Mary School (SMS), which will be renamed the East Shore Catholic Academy.
The RTM Rules & Ordinances Committee is asked to consider a new ordinance providing municipal tax exemptions for Gold Star parents and spouses who are residents of Branford. Gold Star families are those with members of the Armed Services who lost their lives during military operations.
At a special meeting on Jan. 25, an application to expand and redevelop Parkside Village I under Connecticut Statute Section 8-30g (affordable housing) is denied by the PZC, based on conditions set by the PZC at the vote. The five PZC members present made consecutive, 3-2 votes in favor of the project’s three applications, but interpreted state law to mean the PZC was required to have a 4-1 “supermajority” for one of the applications (re-zoning). Failure to meet the supermajority, combined with a PZC condition that all three votes must pass in order for the application to be approved, results in a denial. The applicants, Branford Housing Authority (BHA) and Beacon Communities, now have the option to appeal the decision in court.
Branford’s popular Stony Creek Brewery announces it’s teamed up with Foxwoods Resort Casino to open a 71,000 square-foot, two-story Stony Creek Brewery brewpub in the casino’s Theater District this summer.
Following an announcement from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) that Shore Line East, along with other rail services, may be significantly cut back in July, shoreline legislators and town officials gather to send a “Save Shore Line East” message to the DOT.
February
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D) joins Branford State Rep. Lonnie Reed (D-102) to meet with the team at Ancera, Inc.. In 2016, the Branford bio-tech start up launched PIPER, a high-tech, desktop box that identifies pathogens in the food supply chain faster than previous methods.
The new Branford Diaper Bank is launched as a collaboration of Branford Counseling Center, Community Dining Room (CDR), and Branford Early Learning Center. The program collects and distributes disposable diapers to families in need.
Police departments of Branford, Guilford, Madison, and Clinton become collection sites for the Shoreline Law Enforcement Diaper Drive in February, benefiting Bare Necessities Inc.
Branford Superintendent of Schools Hamlet Hernandez unveils a 2018-’19 fiscal school budget request totaling $56.38 million, an increase of 1.95 percent over the current budget. The spending bump of $1,088,837 is mainly tied to fixed costs for salaries, benefits, utilities, and transportation.
Main Street’s empty storefront that was once home to Branford Book & Card Shoppe will soon have a new tenant, Branford’s Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. The brokerage, which is currently located a few doors down from the site, held an informal discussion with the PZC to discuss updates to the corner shop at 1020 Main Street.
BHA and developer Beacon Communities file a legal appeal against the PZC, based on the PZC’s January votes that served to deny three applications to redevelop and expand Parkside Village I.
Branford resident, journalist, and military veteran Adrian Bonenberger declares his run for the Branford’s 102nd District state representative seat in the November 2018 state election. The seat is currently held by Democrat Lonnie Reed, now serving her fifth consecutive term.
An impressive line of Branford firefighters in turnout gear put their hearts in a hero’s welcome for six-year-old Chaz DiLeonardo, Jr., born with a congenital heart defect. The firefighters lined the driveway of the DiLeonardo’s Branford home as he returned from an extended hospital stay that began in November 2017.
Branford Early Childhood Collaborative (BECC), a community organization that connects families with services and resources, is granted non-profit status by the Internal Revenue Service. BECC started as some grassroots group 16 years ago and recently experienced a year of organizational growth including development of a new board of directors, with Dr. Bruce Storm as its chairman.
In the wake of a Feb. 14 shooting leaving 17 dead at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Branford public school parents and students bring their school safety concerns and questions to the district’s central office and to meetings of the BOE. Moving descriptions from worried students and parents are heard, with some parents calling for better communication and information from the district, and some others calling for armed security guards in buildings. The BOE and school district will continue to review and update security policies and procedures in place and set aside an hour in a March meeting further discussion and input from parents.
In a move that shocked Democrats and Republicans, State Sen. Ted Kennedy, Jr. (D-12) announced late on Feb. 28 that he will not seek a third term in the November 2018 state election. Kennedy will be taking on national responsibilities as the new board chair of the American Association of People with Disabilities.
March
Branford’s Bridget Judd is named 2018 New Haven St. Patrick’s Day Parade Queen. The 22-year-old para-professional at Sliney Elementary School and assistant Branford High School (BHS) girls’ soccer coach is also a national-level Gaelic football athlete.
Some residents ask the PZC to deny an application to extend the amount of time a site plan can be submitted, once a master plan is approved, during a public hearing on an application brought by an attorney representing property owners at the Exit 56 PDD, once set to include Costco big-box store and additional retail buildings until the applications were withdrawn in 2016. The new request seeks to extend the current two-year site plan action window to three years, with an additional allowance for up to two, one-year extensions, each based on PZC review.
Christine Cohen of Guilford announces she’s a Democratic State Senate candidate for the 12th District in the November 2018 state election. Cohen, owner of Cohen’s Bagel Company in Madison, is a long-time community activist and education advocate.
Flying Horse Hospitality, a Branford-based group founded by Greg Nobile and Eamon Roche, which also opened The Stand: Roadside BBQ and Market in 2016, announces the birth of another Indian Neck area establishment, The Friki Tiki, a tropical-themed piano bar and restaurant, at 3 Linden Avenue (former E. McHenry’s Pub), opening in early summer.
As part of the information gathering underway to help the town draft its 2018 POCD, residents are notified that in March a telephone survey will connect with 250 randomly selected Branford households.
As part of a student-led national 17-minute walkout for school safety effort sparked by the Feb. 14 school shootings in Parkland, Florida, BHS students can opt-in and participate in an effort organized by students with approval from school administration. Students walk out of classes at 10 a.m. and gather in the gym, where student leaders speak.
On March 14, the BOE shares what can be safely publicized about current school security and safety protocols, and what’s being done to strengthen them, at a meeting where parents and students’ concerns and ideas are also heard by the BOE. Student representatives from BHS say while they see some improvements underway in the building, kids still don’t feel safe after the Feb. 14 school shooting that killed 17 in Parkland, Florida.
By a vote of 4-1, the PZC now allows as much as five years, instead of the previous deadline of two years, to submit a site plan to build within a master plan at an approved PDD. The new law gives life to the controversial Exit 56 master plan.
During a March 22 info session, the school district and BOE share information on what parents and students can expect after Phase 1 construction work gets underway this summer at WIS. The construction will include knocking down a portion of the existing school’s Industrial Arts area to make way for building a three-story academic wing. Changes impacting the school building and the implementation of re-routed traffic and school bus zones are discussed.
Under new direction for the first time in more than 30 years, BHS presents a well-received production of Shrek, The Musical, starring BHS students and co-directed by BHS Choir teacher Michael Martone, Jr. (musical director) and theater professional Colin Sheehan. Both Martone and Sheehan are also BHS theater alumni.
The Board of Finance (BOF) recommends a $112 million 2018-’19 town budget with an annual increase of 0.3 percent; a 0.20 mill rate increase, with $57.26 million for schools (operating, capital, and leases); and $45.29 million for municipal expenses. It also includes $1.25 million for contingency and $8.27 million for debt service (bonding repayment). The RTM will now begin its committee budget reviews.
Branford and North Branford Fire Departments host a cooperative “Stop the Bleed” day of training for residents of both towns. The free training takes place at Branford Fire Headquarters and teaches trainees how to save the life of a person with a life-threatening, severely bleeding wound until EMS arrives.
April
The Branford Education Hall of Fame names its 10 newest inductees as the Class of 2018: Patricia Dickinson, Sharon Dixon, Lillian M. Fike, Mildred Frumento, Robin Goeler, David Gruendel, David Martens, Maria Ogren, Salvatore Pettinato (posthumously), and Malaine Trecoske.
The PZC is reviewing an application for two retail buildings, the largest more than 62,000 square feet and the other some 13,200 square feet, to be built “on spec” as owner/applicant Jeffrey Shapiro’s proposed Phase II development of a 14 acre-business site being prepared at 250 north Main Street. A public hearing draws some residents calling for the project to be scaled back to mitigate the impact on a natural stone bluff, better address traffic concerns, and to remain in keeping with guidelines in the POCD.
Branford Republican Adam Greenberg, chief executive of a health and nutrition company, announces he will run for the 12th District State Senate seat in the November 2018 state election.
The BOE appoints Dawn Perrotti to fill a vacated seat left open by the January passing of three-term member Judith L. Holtz. Perrotti’s appointment expires with the November 2019 municipal election, when the seat becomes a two-year opening on the municipal ballot.
The Branford Fireworks Committee announces the 2018 Fireworks display, set for June 23, has been relocated from Branford Point to the top of Branford’s Ecology Park. The move is required due to an construction window set by the state DOT to replace the Harbor Street bridge.
In recognition of the Week of the Young Child, BECC brings the community together for a free screening of Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope. The award-winning documentary delves into the science and new treatments with regard to adverse childhood experiences that can shorten lives through violence, addiction and disease.
Branford hosts “Rid Litter” Day for Earth Day, April 21. Residents are encouraged to join a combined effort of the Town and Branford Land Trust (BLT) to comb public areas for litter.
With unanimous PZC approval, a long process to replace Branford Fire Volunteer Co. 9’s aging Indian Neck/Pine Orchard firehouse on Linden Avenue clears its final zoning hurdle. The decision is welcomed by Fire Chief Thomas Mahoney. The plan calls for demolishing the existing building and constructing a new firehouse with an increased floor space of just under 5,000 feet, with parking totaling 13 spaces, a new parking lot entry on Cocheco Avenue. The building’s two new garage bays will be entered/exited via Linden Avenue.
On April 23, Branford State Representative Lonnie Reed (D-102) announces she will not seek a sixth term in the November 2018 state election. Reed has represented most of Branford in the Connecticut General Assembly for 10 consecutive years.
A property purchase/settlement agreement between Pawson Point, LLC, and abutting and neighboring property owners will extinguish a legal appeal made by Pawson Point against the PZC’s 2017 vote against its application, and close the book on a third attempt by the plaintiff to bring housing and/or affordable housing to a lot the town has deemed unbuildable.
The Campaign for the Blackstone celebrates meeting, within one year’s time, a $100,000 challenge grant to be matched by Branford Community Foundation, as well as the state bonding commission’s approval for a $1 million grant. Architects for the library expansion/renovation project return to the PZC with modifications to the plan required by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The main modification required by the SHPO requires a change to the proposed domed roof over the new entrance that mimics the library’s notable main dome, in order to inform viewers the addition isn’t original to the 1896 building. The new entry roof is changed to a shallow, pyramid-shaped roof. All modifications are approved by the PZC.
While notifications were placed on trees by the town in advance, many residents were upset by what looked to be a sudden, drastic change to downtown Main Street, after 19 trees were removed from sidewalks fronting businesses and the town green. The trees, all ornamental Bradford pears, were removed due to age and other condition issues making them unsafe. Town Tree Warden Diana Ross said the removal was the first step in a carefully considered plan to replace the trees with healthier species, which will be planted soon.
Many of the 22 members of Local Union 217 employed by contractor Chartwells to provide food service at Branford Public Schools (BPS) come out to a BOE meeting to voice concerns about new contract negotiations underway between Chartwells and the school district. The union members fear they could lose their jobs if Chartwells does not win a competitive bidding process underway to select the district’s next food service provider.
Branford Assistant Schools Superintendent Dr. Anthony Buono announces he’ll leave the district at the end of the school year to join Westport Public Schools as an assistant superintendent. Buono has been with the district 14 years, beginning as an elementary school principal.
May
Branford Exchange Club honors eight Shoreline Heroes during an annual banquet hosted by the club to recognize outstanding members of fire and police serving the towns of Branford, North Branford, East Haven and Guilford. 2018 Branford honorees are Branford Fire Lt. Harold Barringham and Branford Police Detective Arthur Ferris.
On May 2, South Central Regional (SCR)-SWAT team members were securing buildings at the residential scene of a North Haven hostage standoff when a massive explosion occurs in a barn, injuring nine officers, including one from Branford. While all were eventually released from the hospital, a public fundraiser is set for May 24 at Stony Creek Brewery to help SCR-SWAT raise funds to benefit the officers and families affected by the explosion.
The DOT begins an ambitious, multi-phase project to realign a hair-pin curved, hilly Branford section of State Road 740 (SR-740), known locally as Snake Hill Road. ET&L Corporation is undertaking the $6.15 million project, which involves rock excavation followed by road construction. Drivers will experience delays, but the road will remain open during the project, which is expected to last about two years. SR-740 feeds into Brushy Plain Road in Branford and becomes Totoket Road in North Branford.
Republican Robert Imperato, a current BOF member and past RTM member, announces he’ll run for Branford’s 102nd District state representative in the November 2018 state election.
Democrat Robin Comey, an independent business owner, community organizer, and current RTM member, announces she’ll run for Branford’s 102nd District state representative in the November 2018 state election.
Democrat Sean Scanlon of Guilford is running unopposed for a third term as 98th District state representative, representing parts of Branford and Guilford.
The town enters into a contract with Vision Government Solutions, Inc., to help complete the state-required revaluation for 2019. Employees will begin field inspections of properties during the first week in May.
Beginning May 14, the Harbor Street Bridge is closed to traffic for an anticipated four months, during which the state will undertake a $1.46 million bridge replacement project. The bridge and sidewalk are scheduled to remain closed through Sept. 10, 2018.
The RTM adopts a $112,080,371 annual budget for the 2018-’19 fiscal year, an annual increase of 0.24 percent. The bottom line represents cuts of $106,581 to the BOF-recommended budget approved in March.
The BOF sets a 2018-’19 mill rate of 28.64 mills, an annual increase of 0.17 mills, for a 0.59 percent tax increase. The new fiscal year begins July 1, 2018.
The state announces a $5.8 million seawall removal/replacement project along Connecticut Scenic Route 146/Limewood Avenue, slated to start fall of 2020 based on funding availability. DOT officials come to Branford May 24 to share an overview of the project with residents. Plans call from removing concrete Jersey barriers to construct a new barrier and add a three-foot utility buffer to the adjacent road.
Christine Cohen wins the Democrat’s endorsement for the 12th District Senate race in the November 2018 state election.
Adam Greenberg wins the GOP endorsement for the 12th District Senate race in the November 2018 state election.
The Branford Fire Department (BFD) joins a Connecticut consortium of multiple fire agencies offering a single test, giving firefighter applicants the ability to apply to 11 departments.
The annual Branford Memorial Day Parade steps off May 28 on Main Street, following ceremonies organized by the Branford Veterans Parade Committee. The committee honors six Branford World War II veterans as 2018 Parade Marshals: Ira Lewis, 97; Grant Briggs, 91; Bill Brody, 98; Donald Robinson, 91; Vincent Thomas, 92 and Stanley Petela, 95.
BPS announces contractor Chartwells will continue providing the district’s food service, following a competitive bidding process for the district’s next food vendor. The decision is celebrated by 22 members of Local Union 217 employed by Chartwells at Branford schools.
On May 15, Branford military veteran Eugene Palmieri was wrapped in one of seven Quilts of Valor during a Connecticut Quilts of Valor ceremony held at Willoughby Wallace Library in Stony Creek. The event honored seven area veterans and was hosted by Willoughby Wallace Quilters together with Connecticut Quilts of Valor Foundation.
Following a disappointing test run of fireworks shot off from Ecology Park, Branford Fireworks Committee changes plans for using the hilltop venue as its alternate temporary site for the town’s June 23 annual fireworks display. After meeting with town and emergency response leaders, the committee announces on May 30 that the fireworks will instead go off from Foote Park on June 23.
Party caucuses in May for the open 102nd District State Representative seat give the Republican endorsement to Robert Imperato and the Democratic endorsement to Robin Comey for the November 2018 state election ballot. Democratic contender Adrian Bonenberger states he intends to continue to pursue election to the 102nd seat, making it a three-way race.
June
Branford’s PZC-appointed POCD Steering Committee holds a public meeting to gather feedback on its working draft of the 2018 POCD, which is available online at the town’s website for review.
The new, year-round Shoreline Theatre Company (STC), under the direction of Colin Sheehan and Mike Martone, Jr., is launched in collaboration with Branford Parks & Recreation. Summer programming will include a theater camp held at BHS and auditions for performers for productions of Hairspray (adults/young adults) and Aladdin Jr.
Branford Chief of Police Kevin Halloran announces Jonathan Mulhern, currently North Haven deputy police chief, has accepted a conditional contract to become Branford’s new deputy police chief. Mulhern is expected to begin serving with Branford Police in July.
One of two Democratic candidates vying for Branford’s open 102nd District state representative seat, Adrian Bonenberger, announces he’s discontinuing his campaign.
On June 7, a dozen brightly colored, student-decorated shovels helped break ground at the site of the next-generation WIS. A crowd of community supporters and school and government leaders include many who have helped bring the $88.2 million project to this point. First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove thanks the “dozens, if not hundreds, of people who worked over the years to see this project move forward.” BOE chairman Michael Krause notes Fusco Construction will begin work the day after school closes for the summer.
Rachel Sexton is named Branford’s new assistant superintendent of schools. The former chief of the ACES Institute will oversee pre-K academic program and serve as part of the executive leadership team.
BPS announces a fifth year of free summer meals for kids under 18. Doors to three schools will be opened for breakfast and lunch from mid-June through August.
On June 12, more than 220 BHS seniors in caps and gowns of Hornets’ red take part in BHS Class of 2018 commencement ceremonies on the Town Hall stage.
The 34th annual Branford Festival takes over the Town Green June 15 to 17, delighting thousands with live music, food tents, midway rides, and more.
WIS secretarial staff move to BHS for the summer, as the first phase of the WIS expansion/renovation project gets underway, including abatement work.
Five parents stand in support of one another at the start of the June 20 BOE meeting, as one reads a statement and gives examples of disparaging incidents experienced by LBGTQ students over the school year, particularly at WIS. She asks the BOE to better honor a 2015 policy providing for district staff training in transgender or other gender identity issues, and what it means to treat all people respectfully and equally. Superintendent Hernandez said the district does “recognize perhaps some work needs to be done in that area,” adding BPS doesn’t “shy away from issues” and will continue to work to “address the challenges.” The BOE intends to form a special committee to review the LBGTQ policy.
Despite the threat of some heavy rain arriving as the first rounds were fired off, Branford’s annual fireworks display launches a professional pyrotechnic show from Foote Park.
The culprit could have been construction work, or some folks looking to cool off quickly, but a number of reports of discolored water in Branford homes during the first two weeks of June caused Regional Water Authority (RWA) to notify residents fire hydrants cannot be opened without authorization.
Co-organizers Carly Callahan and Greg Nobile strike the opening notes of a 10-week public space initiative Free Keys CT on the shoreline. In Branford, three decorated upright pianos painted by local artists are installed outside for public use on the Branford Green, at the Blackstone Library, and The Stand: Roadside BBQ and Marketplace.
Superintendent Hernandez outlines a successful school year, noting the district moved ahead to exceed national statistics for growth in a collaborative learning environment, among many other milestones. The district is also meeting or exceeding the needs of a student population, which, by state standards, includes 39.2 percent recognized as “high need.”
Branford Jazz on the Green series celebrates its 10th birthday by kicking off a summer’s worth of 10 free Thursday night live concerts, drawing thousands.
July
Shoreline Greenway Trail (SGT) Branford Committee members take hikers on a test-spin along the improved link of the SGT on the town’s Tabor property. The final phase of improvement for the four-tenths of a mile, 10-foot wide trail section will be chip sealing to allow for comfortable travel for all, including wheelchair access. A grand opening celebration is planned for September.
On July 9, with his family looking on, Jonathan Mulhern is officially sworn in as Branford’s new deputy chief of police.
The PZC votes 4-1 to grant a one-year extension to file a site plan for future development at the Exit 56 PDD. The request was brought by combined property owners of the PDD parcel. The plan was originally set to expire in July 2017, but the PZC granted a one-year extension to July 2018. The new one-year extension expires in July, 2019.
Hometown Harmonies is held at the Owenego. The brand-new event features live musical performances by Broadway star Donnie Kehr and local musical talent, and celebrates community while raising awareness and funds for efforts supported by Branford Community Foundation.
Following extensive public meetings and several modifications to their original plan, the owners of 250 North Main Street have PZC approval to further develop the 14-acre lot to pursue construction of two retail-use buildings.
After nearly two decades dedicated to creating the best possible engineering outcomes for the town’s infrastructure and building projects, Branford Town Engineer Janice Plaziak wraps up her final day at Town Hall on July 19. First Selectman Cosgrove notes Plaziak was a key factor in numerous town projects including recent work to help usher in major town building projects at WIS and the Community/Senior Center. Plaziak will become Guilford’s new town engineer on July 23.
A monument that may have been overlooked is now stopping foot traffic on the Branford Green, thanks to a team effort to revitalize the Veterans Memorial Garden and its engraved granite monument at the base of the flag pole. The red, white, and blue plantings and garden design by VanWilgen’s Garden Center will be maintained by Branford Garden Club (BGC), which established the garden in the 1970s. Local veterans’ organizations American Legion Post 83 and VFW Post 12106 and town departments including the First Selectman’s Office, Public Works, and Parks & Recreation also were involved in restoring the garden as a centerpiece on the green.
The POCD Steering Committee takes on questions about areas of the working draft of the 2018 POCD that seemingly affect development at Exit 56 unfairly by including language that is more restrictive and conservation-sensitive than development at other Branford exits along the I-95 corridor. One of the property owners of a parcel in the PZC-approved Exit 56 PDD, Wayne Cooke, raises the question, together with display a sign asking, “Where’s Costco?” Cooke has also established a website, branfordfraud.com, where he outlines town-governed actions leading up to the withdrawal of Costco from the Exit 56 PDD in 2016. Branford Economic Development Commission (EDC) chair Perry Maresca also registers the EDC’s concern that POCD draft does not support business and retail development at Exit 56 and the Route 1 East corridor into Guilford. Jacey Wyatt, who also serves on the town’s Parks & Open Space Authority, says the work going into the POCD doesn’t include many of her suggestions and reasons for more development, despite attending numerous meetings and giving her input. POCD Steering Committee chair Phil Carloni notes the draft is still being revised and the process will continue to be one in which input is considered, with the goal to create a “balance” between conservation and development.
The secretary of the Thimble Islands Association comes before the Board of Selectmen (BOS) and the POCD steering committee to make note of the association’s upcoming effort to meet with stakeholders and town leaders to find solutions to issues being created by growing Stony Creek tourism. The association seeks the creation of additional parking in Stony Creek, consideration of a shuttle running from the train station, and addressing overuse/limitations created by tour boats using the town dock at Stony Creek, as well as looking at installing a public kayak launch area instead of using the congested town boat launch in Stony Creek.
The RTM votes 18-6 to reject a request by BHA and Beacon Communities for access to land to build an access road to Melrose Avenue. An attorney for BHA said the request sought an easement for two years’ time to allow for temporary construction access and parking that would be needed to redevelop Parkside Village I at 115 South Montowese Street and that BHA and Beacon offered to contribute $200,000 to help the town develop the access road extension. RTM moderator Dennis Flanigan (R-5) notes for the crowd of some 50 in attendance that the vote is only about the easement being sought and not a discussion on BHA/Beacon’s efforts to expand Parkside Village I. The request for the easement stemmed from a past informal discussion with the PZC, during which Parks & Recreation and fire marshal department representatives discussed potentially improving and extending the road to create better parking and access to adjacent Sliney Field and the town’s newly acquired Foote Park.
With a successful Heimlich maneuver and quick water rescue response, two Branford Parks & Recreation staffers save two very young lives in the same week. On July 16, Recreation Department Program Supervisor Victor Amatori, a veteran staffer, used three quick successions of the Heimlich maneuver to save a four-year-old camper choking on a piece of barbecued chicken. Two days later, 18-year-old lifeguard Chris DeLise assisted a preschooler who slipped into the water during swimming lessons held at the Connecticut Hospice pool. Recreation Director Alex Palluzzi emphasizes the saves reflect on the hard work of all department staffers, who undertake consistent training and drills to be prepared for emergency responses.
During the last week of July, large lawn signs asking “Where’s Costco?” above the website address branfordfraud.com, begin cropping up around Branford. Wayne Cooke, a representative of the group behind the signs, tells The Sound they are responding to a question they feel many residents have been asking since Costco withdrew its application to build off I-95 Exit 56 in 2016. Cooke is one of a group of property owners of the Exit 56 PDD.
August
Topped by an outsized digital timer and a color-bar UV Index that lights up as it rises and falls, Branford’s new, portable SOLaware Display hit the beach for the first time at Branford Point on Aug. 2. Officials from the town, East Shore District Health Department (ESDHD), and SOLaware Technologies unveil the unit, which gives viewers real-time analysis results to show potential skin and eye damage underway based on the strength of the sun’s rays. First Selectman Cosgrove said Branford is one of the first towns in the state to lease the display as part of a pilot program rolled out this summer. The unit will be brought to town events including those on the green and elsewhere. The unit also includes a free sunscreen lotion dispenser, provided with support from ESDHD.
Woofstock, an annual day of live music and fun and awareness in support of Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter, takes place on the Branford Green Aug. 11, with a good turnout despite some rainy weather.
Founder and president of Branford non-profit Smile Anyway Amy Johansson puts on the first annual Love is Louder music festival at the Owenego. The event draws hundreds and helps raise funds toward the goal of establishing a local transitional facility where young adults battling substance abuse and addiction can join a sober lifestyle community providing a continuum of post-rehabilitation support.
Foxwood Resort Casino opens Stony Creek Brewery (SCB), a fully operational brewpub and the second brewing operation for Branford-based SCB.
Branford votes in the gubernatorial state primaries on Aug. 14, with turnouts of about 34 percent from both parties. Branford Democrats support candidate Ned Lamont over candidate Joe Ganim and Branford Republicans pull for candidate Bob Stefanowski among five GOP candidates in the running.
By unanimous vote, the BOE votes to give Superintendent Hernandez a 2.5 percent pay increase for an annual salary of $200,072 and extends his contract to 2021. Hernandez joined BPS as superintendent in 2010.
A naming committee of the BOE will explore naming a location within BPS in honor of Cathy and John McGuirk. The Branford residents coached BHS field hockey together, with Cathy McGuirk as head coach for more than 40 years, and retired from their roles in January 2018.
As construction continues at WIS, the rubble piles created by pulling down the Industrial Arts area will be cleared away, and new parent and bus drop-off areas and procedures will be in place to keep students safe when school resumes Sept. 4, says Superintendent Hernandez. He characterizes the Phase 1 construction work as “slightly ahead of schedule.
After years of being hidden by overgrowth, Branford’s notable false cypress tree at the back of the town green now stands out, thanks to a fresh new garden surrounding it, installed through the efforts of the Branford Green Committee, First Selectman’s Office, Branford Parks & Recreation, Branford Public Works, and donated plantings and design from Van Wilgen’s Garden Center.
September
Branford’s public-school year begins on Sept. 4 with schools enjoying a successful academic start, even as some middle school and elementary school transportation delays are experienced as buses and parents adjust to the changes at WIS due to construction underway. Superintendent Hernandez said the issues are being addressed and will continue to improve in the coming days.
The Sound breaks the news that, after 44 years in business in Branford, Su Casa Mexican Restaurant will close, ending an era. On Sept. 7, Su Casa owner Susan Van Antwerpen tells The Sound Su Casa’s final day of service will be Sept. 29. Connecticut-based Archie Moore’s Bar & Restaurant will open a new restaurant at the site.
A two-month project to replace six outdoor tennis courts on the BHS campus is completed on time. The $252,000 project was budgeted as part of the town’s five-year capital project spending plan.
On Sept. 11, the town holds a moving ceremony marking the 17th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America on Sept. 11, 2001. A grateful community gathers to thank its firefighters, police, and emergency medical technicians.
Branford Elks Lodge 1939 celebrates 150 Years of Elkdom with a huge celebration at the lodge grounds on South Montowese Street.
The non-profit Legacy Theatre announces a five-year effort to revive the Stony Creek Puppet House as the new Legacy Theatre has been infused by a $1.2 million gift given by two members of the Legacy board. The theater expects to seek approval from the PZC for some exterior modifications to the approved site plan, which will allow building refurbishment work to get underway.
To celebrate 90 years of Rotary Club in Branford, 50 year-old Branford Rotary Foundation holds its first major event, Party at the Pond, to benefit the non-profit foundation and Smilow Cancer Hospital. The special affair also recognizes the contributions of the Van Wilgen family. The party’s held beside a large pond in a rarely viewed, scenic location on the expansive property of Van Wilgen’s Garden Center.
Due to some delays and issues tied to expanding and renovating a building that’s more than 50 years old, the completion date for Branford’s Community/Senior Center expansion project continues be a bit of a moving target. Originally set for completion in October 2018, the date has now been pushed into the at least the beginning of February 2019, says First Selectman Cosgrove.
Feed Branford Kids, a grassroots start-up organized by the late Johanne Pantani with some of her friends in 2012, earns non-profit status. By implementing Friday backpack deliveries to participating BPS, the group currently provides nearly 200 weekend meals and snacks to Branford school children in need during the school year.
After 13 years without a significant increase in staff levels, Branford Fire Department will be adding eight new firefighter/paramedic positions, with costs initially assisted by a federal grant. The major staffing bump—a 22 percent rise—will ease the current strain caused by rising call volumes, especially for medical calls. The RTM approves the BOF’s recommendation to take on the estimated annual cost increase of $1.2 million, which will be offset in the first four years with help from a recently-awarded $1.46 million SAFER federal grant. Hiring will begin immediately, says Fire Chief Mahoney.
A Branford chair is currently rocking Bradley International Airport and offering travelers a tempting place to rest. The Adirondack rocker painted by BHS students with Branford-themed images is one of nine currently installed as usable art, among a total of nine Connecticut high school student-decorated chairs.
The massive tent returns to the Branford Green to house the annual Friends of the Blackstone Library Book Sale, which features more than 70,000 gently used, donated books. Proceeds support programs and needs of the James Blackstone Memorial Library.
The POCD steering committee makes a unanimous vote to recommend its final draft version of the 2018 POCD to the PZC for review and possible adjustments, before the PZC will vote to adopt a final version. Final committee changes voted in on Sept. 13 include removing a long list of specific and more stringent land-use, economic development, and conservation goals initially suggested for the Exit 56 PDD and the Route 1 East corridor, in favor of those consistent with other I-95 and Route 1 goals outlined in the draft.
A busy Friday night at Branford’s Tommy Sullivan’s Café quickly turns legendary when internationally famous British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran pops into the pub around midnight, arriving as part of a local wedding entourage. Café owner Maeve Sullivan tells The Sound Sheeran appeared without notice in a group of about 40, and generously took selfies with her staff and many café customers. Sheeran’s stop in Branford, in the midst of his record-breaking, sold-out Divide Tour, makes news around the country.
October
BLT dedicates a bench on the Supply Pond trail in honor of the late Noble Proctor Ph.D., a renowned naturalist, noted ornithologist, and active BCT member and volunteer.
BGC presents an ambitious standard flower show, The Sound and the Flora of Stony Creek, drawing hundreds of attendees over two days to the show’s venues, displays, and educational spaces in historic buildings and homes in Stony Creek.
Light the Night is organized by Shoreline Community Church as a safe, fun free family night on the green on Halloween, Oct. 31, with lantern lighting, costumes, candy, and participation from downtown merchants.
ESDHD launches the world’s first full-sized solar electric pump-out boat on Oct. 15 at Bruce and Johnsons Marina, where the boat will be based. Federal, state, and local leaders come out to celebrate the culmination of a three-year effort, with many taking a spin on the boat.
A judge sides with BHA and developer Beacon Communities’ appeal of the 2018 PZC denial of Parkside Village I renovation/expansion applications; which could put the blocked proposal back into play. However, the RTM’s 2018 vote to deny BHA/Beacon’s requested access to an undeveloped Melrose Avenue town road extension remains a hurdle to the site plan. The town could appeal the Hartford Superior Court judge’s decision.
With help from national and district leaders as well as First Selectman Cosgrove and Superintendent Hernandez, Branford Exchange Club ushers in 27 charter members of the first Excel Club at BHS on Oct. 11, creating the school’s newest community service club.
Unanticipated excavation delays have pushed back the re-opening of the Harbor Street bridge. The project was originally slated to be completed in September and will now require several more weeks and potentially months of work.
The Branford Board of Police Commissioners and Chief Halloran announce the promotion of four members of Branford Police Department. With their new ranks, they are Captain John Alves, Lt. Dominick Eula, Sgt. Rashaad Roach, and Sgt. Corrianne Dionne.
In the upcoming November 2018 state election, Branford resident and former North Branford resident Judge Frank Forgione, a Branford attorney, will run unopposed for re-election as judge of probate for the 35th District (Branford-North Branford).
BHS Horizons teachers are recognized by Connecticut Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs for hosting annual Veterans Day events at the school for more than 20 years, which bring in many veterans to visit with students and share living history from actions spanning World War II to present-day.
November
After a hit-and-run accident that seriously injured a 52-year-old Branford woman riding her bicycle on East Main, police launch an investigation and seek the public’s help in locating the driver of a white Ford F-Series pick-up truck. Police later locate the vehicle in Hamden and continue the investigation to locate the driver.
With some close margins, the majority of Branford voters support Democrats running the state elections on Nov. 6. Winners of local races include Democrat Christine Cohen for the State Senate District 12 seat; Democrat Robin Comey as 102nd District State Representative, and unopposed incumbents Sean Scanlon (D) as 98th District State Representative and Frank Forgione (R) as District 35 judge of probate. The town’s registrars of voters, Dan Hally (D) and Marion Burkard (R), are also re-elected to their posts.
U.S. Navy Veteran and American Legion Post 83 president Donald Langlois, Sr., is the parade marshal for the 2018 Veterans Day Parade, which steps off on Main Street on Nov. 11. The parade is organized by the Branford Veterans Parade Committee.
Despite uncovering some unanticipated bumps in the road, Phase I work on the WIS expansion-renovation project is progressing at a satisfactory pace, project team leaders report. The new building addition is on schedule to be completed in November 2019, to allow students to be in the new school facility in January 2020. At that point renovation upgrades and changes to the original WIS school building would begin. The entire expansion/renovation project is scheduled to be completed by July 30, 2021.
Branford kicks off the holiday season with the town’s annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Nov. 24 and the highest number of parade units to date, more than 50.
A $75,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Greater New Haven puts Campaign for the Blackstone over its $800,000 fundraising goal and clears the way for the library project’s groundbreaking celebration, set for Dec. 6.
Past and present presidents of the Branford Festival Corporate Board give special recognition to Victor Cassella, thanking him for 30 years of service as he steps down from his final term as member.
The official naming ceremony won’t take place until next season, but a sign at the BHS sports complex will be raised in 2019 in honor of the Cathy and John McGuirk Field Hockey Field, at a location to be determined on the main field. On Nov. 14, the BOE voted unanimously to accept the naming recommendation.
On Nov. 20, BFD responds to an interior wall fire in a unit of the condominium complex Harbor Village, located in Short Beach. The fire is also safely extinguished, with damage contained to the unit of origin. The fire was caused by a malfunction of the fire place system, which allowed the fire to get out of the fire place system and into the wall enclosure surrounding it.
The PZC votes not to appeal an Oct. 24 Hartford Superior Court decision in which the judge sided with BHA and developer Beacon Communities, Inc., to overturn the PZC’s denial of a 2018 Parkside Village I application.
On Nov. 24, large, fast-moving fire breaks out in Stony Creek at 297A Lavassa Terrace sometime after 6 p.m., in tight neighborhood atop a narrow, high driveway. The fire starts at the back of the unoccupied house and is fully involved when BFD arrives on the scene. Three 120-gallon propane tanks add to a dangerous situation, but the fire is quelled in within 20 minutes by BFD with mutual aid assistance from Guilford and East Haven departments, although the house is gutted by the fire. Branford Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal Shaun Heffernan tells The Sound his investigation, concluded on Nov. 30, determined an accidental origin for the fire, caused by an electric halogen light accidentally being left on and coming in contact with a back deck, igniting it.
November was a time of transition at Branford’s John B. Sliney (JBS) Elementary School, as the district bid farewell to former principal Margaret-Mary Gethings, starts a search for a permanent replacement, and hires interim principal Sharon Weiserman, who begins Nov. 26.
December
On a beautiful first day of December, the Short Beach Association/community comes out with Branford Parks & Recreation and town and state officials for the opening of Pardee Park’s newly installed state-of-the-art equipment with full handicap-accessibility. It’s the product of grass-roots fundraising, civic support, and neighborhood teamwork.
Branford Parks & Recreation opens a new gaga ball pit at Foote Park. The pit is an eagle scout project of local resident Joe Loffredo.
A celebratory groundbreaking ceremony on Dec. 6 raises the starting gate on the $5.2 million interior renovation and lower level addition to the James Blackstone Memorial Library building, originally constructed in 1896. Work is set to begin in two weeks, with the library to remain open during all phases of the 12-month project. The project marks the most significant work to the building since a major interior renovation in 1996.
The PZC approves exterior modifications sought by the Legacy Theatre to renovate the former Stony Creek Puppet House.
After four years, The Stand: Roadside BBQ & Market in Indian Neck will close on Dec. 23, owners Greg Nobile and Eamon Roche announce on Dec. 7. They note another Indian Neck-area restaurant in their Flying Horse Hospitality Group, The Friki Tiki, will return in 2019.
In early 2019, a Branford developer hopes to submit an application, and receive approval from the town, for the next phase of development on the Branford River at Anchor Reef. On Dec. 6, during an informal discussion with the PZC, developer Sal Marottoli of Sachem Building & Development LLC (Branford) meet to discuss his interest in applying for a master plan modification for two additional residential buildings and a small boutique hotel within the current Anchor Reef Planned Development District (PDD) on Maple Street.
It’s not every year a town can celebrate its 375th birthday, and for Branford, that year will be 2019. On Dec. 10, First Selectman Cosgrove and members of Branford’s 375th Celebration Committee announce plans to roll out a year’s worth of commemorative events in 2019, kicking off with First Night Branford on the Town Green Jan. 4.
Branford shows its support for Wreaths Across America (WAA) on Dec. 11, with supporters outside and a ceremony inside at Branford Fire Headquarters creating a welcome stop for the Maine-to-Virginia convoy. The impressive convoy visited Branford en route to Arlington National Cemetery for the second consecutive year; thanks to town-wide assistance given to visit organizers and Branford military veterans Lt. Commander Dottie Packer (N.C. USN, Retired) and Pamela Bold (Health Services Chief, USCG, Retired). Packer and Bold travel annually with the WAA convoy.
Final road paving and other signs of completion take place at the Harbor Street bridge as of Dec. 17, as local residents await the removal of street-level barriers and the bridge re-opening expected within the month.
Noting they were unable to rise to this summer’s Lip Synch Challenge issued by East Haven Police Department, members of Branford Police Department put their best foot forward by releasing a holiday-themed lip synch video in December, starring some of the department’s officers with members of the BHS Dance Team, to help spread a message of holiday cheer for the community.