First Two Days – 5/20/2009

Posted by Bob on May 20, 2009 under Daily Blogs | Be the First to Comment

The first two days of our administration have been exciting and eventful.  My very first hours in the mayor’s office were spent with Naugatuck High School Advanced Placement History student Kaleb Barrett, who in addition to being my neighbor, was assigned to shadow me as part of Mr. Kirkby’s student government program.  Kaleb was great company and very understanding while I was learning such simple tasks as  how to log-on to my computer, how to use the phone system, and most importantly, where to find a cup of coffee.  Much thanks to all the department heads who participated, particularly Deputy Fire Chief Ken Hanks who conducted the orientation.  It was a great way to start our administration.

As promised during the campaign, instruction was given on Day One to halt all further work at the Gunntown Property.  While we realize that this has been a controversial issue, it is now time to move forward with protecting passive open space and addressing the serious need for active recreational space in a constructive manner.  We look forward to working with all those who have been passionate advocates on both sides of this issue.  We can move beyond “either/or” scenarios and work together toward solutions that benefit open space advocates and sports enthusiasts.

Negotiations will begin on a variety of levels this week with regard to unresolved collective bargaining contracts.  There are no simple solutions to finding the right balance between protecting taxpayers from further distress and providing our hard-working Borough employees with a good wage for a good days work.  All I can promise is that a new era of respect and civility will be extended from our administration to all bargaining units as we move forward together.

The Renaissance Place project is moving forward with much promise and continuity regardless of the change in administrations.  Much of Day Two was spent in Hartford discussing the status of the project on all levels with our fantastic legislative delegation: State Senators Joseph Crisco, Jr. and Joan Hartley; and State Representatives David Labriola and Rosa Rebimbas.  We would like to personally thank Conroy Development Vice President of Operations Michael L. O’Connor, Esquire, for his on-going assistance and professionalism during the transition period and first few days of our administration.  His participation in today’s discussions was insightful and extremely valuable.

This blog will undergo changes in the coming weeks to transform from a forum that has discussed many aspects of the recent campaign into a site providing access to information regarding our local government.  As my personal site and domain name, I look forward to using the blog as a way to increase communication with residents and increase transparency within our administration.  While the blog will in no way reflect the opinions of the Borough of Naugatuck, it will work to comply with all aspects of Freedom of Information Act law and intent.  From time to time, we will include updates on the “First Hundred Days” goals discussed previously.

We look forward to your questions, comments, ideas and continuing interest in all things Naugatuck.