Milford Polling Locations and Instructions

First and foremost find your voting center by going to the bottom of this page or click THIS LINK. Know where to go.

Next bring your ID. Acceptable forms of ID are valid non expired drivers licences, military, or passport id's, or certified state ID's. If you have none of these go to the Parson's complex voter registrar and obtain a voter ID card.

Once this is sorted out, on Tuesday November 2Nd. go to your designated voting location between the hours of 6:00am till 7:30pm . If you are unfamiliar with the Diabold system watch the video above explaining its use.

As a final note, and to make sure your vote counted look at the numerical counter on the Diebold machine. (The counter will be located on the front panel and look like the odometer on your car.) Notice the number before you put your card in, then look again to be certain the number counted up.

Any problems please report them to the poll watchers and contact me on my cell. (203) 247-4357. or call the Voter Regisrar Office by clicking HERE.

This Blog Courtesy of Rocco Frank (Independent Candidate For The 118th State Rep. Race)
*************************************
POLL FINDER
*************************************

Event Updates on The Milford Race For Mayor

Last Monday all three candidates attended a question and answer session at News 12. The segment was 28 Minutes long and will be airing this coming week for Cablevision Customers who have exclusive access to local programming.

The segment was very informative and revealing of the many thoughts and ideas that all three candidates have covered. I certainly recomend watching the Tom Appleby show on News 12.

This Month, all announced candidates for mayor of Milford have also been invited to present their platforms and answer questions from the public at a Candidates Night Debate on Tuesday, Sept. 20, at 8 p.m., at the First United Church of Christ (Congregational), 34 West Main St.

Expected to participate are mayoral candidates, Bob (Bernard) Joy (R), Ben (Benjamin) Blake (D), and Rocco Frank (I). The debate will be the first of the political season and be open to the public at no charge.

Next Month, Mistie Powell, the President of the Milford Coalition of Condominiums (MCCA)is also scheduled to hold a debate on October 8th at 9A.M. The coalition is made up of 50+ condo/homeowner associations throughout Milford.

In past election years, the coalition has hosted a mayoral debate between the prospective candidates, including the one of October of 2009 – Mayor Richetelli, Genevieve Salvatore and Peter Spaltoff each participated.

In this forum Questions are given to the candidates ahead of time from members of the (MCCA) and are based on issues and/or concerns that they, as condominium owners, had.

This event is also open to the public. For more information and an address visit their website at http://www.mcca-ct.org/

Why I Decided to Run For Mayor

To give you an overview on why I am running for Mayor is to present a simple message to the people of Milford. "The Two Party System Is Disingenuous and Cannot be Trusted."

Last year both Democrats and Republicans took credit for the citywide tax decrease, however both sides neglected to mention they borrowed the money to do it. This borrowing increased our debt to 240M in 2010, not including interest.

The "Entrenched Two Party Leadership" also fattened their pension fund to an astounding $380M a 100% over funding according to the Mcready article in the MOB!! In turn, the People of Milford were left with a current estimated 300M in 2011 debt... debt voted on and spent by both parties.

Since 2008! the CAFR's (Comprehensive Audited Financial Results) indicate our city liabilities are growing at an alarming 17.7% per year, while our city assets are growing at 6.6% per year.

Neither Democrats nor, Republicans want to acknowledge that their collective leadership is the cause of Milford "Heading of a Cliff!!" We will soon have "More Liabilities than Assets" by 2014-2015 if nothing changes.

For the last year I viewed and studied the books of Milford, I read the auditors reports and am keenly aware of the many reactions of our city leaders who are stuck on a 10% fantasy debt ratio figure. This is a method that I disagree with. If elected I would adjust the pension model to pay down city debt, something I believe both my opponents would refuse to do.

While I have no intention of arguing with the overly optimistic accounting logic at City Hall, I do take issue with the selective appropriations that secure the futures of those individuals who redirected these excessive sums of public tax money to their private pensions.

On a final note, there are many other issues that have me frustrated with the conspiratorial silence of the self serving money dolers that are our disingenuous two party buddy system. I expect that this year will be no different than any other, the Big Developers, Law Firms etc... their personal rational interests and their money will corrupt the voters in favor of owed jobs, contracts and work for a select politically connected few. We must not allow these people to get away with the "Highjacking" of our city!

When people vote for Me or any independent, they are voting for a "Level Playing Field." We are a party that does NO FAVORS FOR ANYONE! Not land clearer's, Not Cadley House wrecking developers, Not Law firms, Not Big Banks, and Certainly Not other Politicians. Our Goal is to make winning deals that are to the advantage of the taxpayers... not the other way around.

This is perhaps the single greatest reason why getting elected as an Independent is so difficult. While the Democrats and Republicans have accepted what amounts to "bribes" from a great many destructive forces in Milford, the Independent Party has refused all special interest money and rejected all donors with implied conditions. We are not open for business, nor are we for sale! We would rather run a campaign with little to no money than to sell out for a big Billboard on the Post Road.

In order to run a truly honest City we cannot accept "Money for Influence." We can only accept "donations from the Heart."

Rocco J. Frank Jr.
ICO ComputerFox Inc.
374 New Haven Ave.
Milford, CT 06460

Taxes... They Are All Going Up... A Little

Milford's real estate taxes are going up a little only $106.00 for the average homeowner, state taxes well they are going up just a little when we include the increase in the sales tax, gas tax, and the  increased income tax. The average person in our state will have to pay an additional $750.00 a year. Federal taxes, well they are still working on that but we did see a glimpse of their plans, these include new health insurance taxes and carbon taxes.

To make matters more interesting there are thousands of homeowners who live in Milford that are part of Condo Associations, and yes those fees are also sadly going up with all else.

Thus far it would appear that the cost of food and clothing is going up along with the price of gas. Borders bookstore announced it is going into bankruptcy and will be closing its store at the Milford Mall. Connecticut's state unions are being forced into very large concessions and local governments like ours in Milford are still struggling to balance their budget.

The trend is very clear, the government wants more money from the taxpayers, employers cannot keep up and are laying people off or closing stores and more and more people are relying on help from the government.

Energy assistance, unemployment extensions, food stamps, housing assistance, health care for economically disadvantaged kids, and of course transportation assistance as we have seen in the past. These programs included "cash for clunkers," "Home buyers Credits," "cash infusions to big banks" and who can forget the millions of foreclosures and the latest government program "Keeping Americas Homes Affordable Act."

The disconnect between government, at all levels, and the reality that has become the Greatest Recession America has ever seen is crystal clear. The national debt is growing at a staggering pace and is expected to top 15 Trillion by years end, entire states are bankrupt, and municipalities are expected to go into default on government bonds issued under the "Renew America Act."

For the lucky few out there who have lots of savings, you may weather the storm and be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. While no one knows where the "end of the tunnel" is, there are some out there who already see the the light.

Wall Street for some odd reason seems to defy Main Street, this is because as Main Street continues to struggle Wall Street continues to prosper. The index is up nearly 20% since last year but few on Main Street feel that recovery. Why you must be thinking? Over and over again the answer is clear and that is that Americas stock markets represent international companies with international business models. 

Many of the companies represented on Wall Street  are international companies. They do business in emerging and developed markets around the world and have unbridled access to liquid money and investment lending that ordinary Americans do not.

Most people who look at America for investing are immediately concerned with the extensive regulations on business that include employer mandates, environmental regulations, high energy costs, taxes, and according to our President our "D" rated infrastructure that must support their manufacturing operations. What governments fail to realize is that increases in taxes, along with the creation of new laws and regulations can dramatically alter the commercial and economic landscape of a community.

This problem is further exaggerated by treaties such as NAFTA, GATT, EPP, ETC.. these treaties make it possible for our nations corporations to shop every government in the world for economic opportunity and to gain an advantage over their competitors.

This is why so many former U.S. based companies have abandoned America. Our global manufacturing is more often than not conducted in nations that pay very low wages, have little to no regulation, low environmental standards and provide a welcome package for those who boost the quality of life of the once destitute people who lived in those host nations.

The issue of taxes, big government, and jobs will persist so long as we live in a bifurcated world where all levels of government tax without regard to the other. The notion of small tax increases is fine until those small increases, combined with others create an environment inhospitable to conduct business. The bankruptcy of Borders books this week is perhaps a reminder that things need to change if we are to stem the tide of economic decline in America and our state.

I hope those of you who read this today are able to make those decisions that ordinary job seekers cannot make for themselves, those decisions must be aimed at rebuilding the U.S. manufacturing base through tariffs and policies that help rather than hurt American wages and jobs. 

A Outlook of The Weekly News And Milford's Road Ahead

Over the last few days I have been mourning the loss of my family dog. Our beloved Bella passed away last Saturday when she was struck by a hit and run driver. To all my loyal fans and avid readers out there just know I am still with you and my thoughts will continue as they always do moving forward.

Thus far I am back at my desk this morning and have been looking at and analyzing the latest local and state news and the biggest challenges on the table are those that have become emblematic of all communities in Connecticut. Education, education spending, property taxes, and the fragility of survival of our towns citizens who live pay check to pay check.

An eerie reminder of this fragility happened to me just over the weekend. While I was out with my wife and step daughter Lea. We were mourning the loss of our dog together when Terri looked out the window of our booth at the Kimberly Diner and and cried out "Oh my God a woman just fell and is lying motionless on the ground! Somebody call 911!"

Soon several people rushed to her aid, fortunately the woman was alright, but we were told by our waitress who had gone outside to assist that this woman was likely to need several stitches on her forehead. She argued with those aiding her that she had "no health insurance and did not want to go to the hospital" fearing that her inability to pay would result in some punitive financial measure against the little she had left.

The woman did go to the hospital, and thankfully the Kimberly Diner was well equipped with all the necessary first aid equipment to respond to such emergencies. However, there was some frustration expressed when the 911 operator needed the address to the Diner just across the street from the Milford P.D. who immediately responded when they were called directly.

While this is just a random experience of the many tribulations we are now coming to endure, civility in the coming years is going to be more important than ever. As the Federal Government continues to deny our city, and state federal student money and grants as part of these newly emerging global austerity measures the people of Milford will be struggling to find a life balance.

This balance, however is going to be threatened once again by the very pillars that carry the entire town budget. Our mill rate is expected to change dramatically after the new 2011 assessments are complete. Record spikes in foreclosures in Milford and New Haven County have driven down the cost of real estate and stagnated home sales and the entire housing market.

While city officials have all but thrown up their hands and said "regardless of what the Grand List out come is, the budget is the budget!" This is a truly disparaging approach to our looming financial problems. In the past years, Milford has been undergoing a mini-austerity style debacle of its own. The city has made deep cuts in education, closing a school, cuts to the bulk pick ups, and several consolidations and cost cutting restructuring schemes of the police and Fire Departments. Milford may one day be faced with selling off its real estate and assets just to keep up.

Moving forward those schemes may be insufficient and not able to satisfy the current problems of the broader state and Federal economy still stuck at over 9.6% unemployment. While the worst unemployment picture we have since today's numbers date back to 1983 (when we had 13.5% unemployment,) those numbers were figured with a different formula. If we use the same formula from 1983 the true unemployment picture could be estimated at 18.9% making this recession the worst since 1929.

What remains as a state of severe uncertainty is the nature of the "Double dip." Experts tend to agree that our jobs and debt are unlikely to be abated soon making the "Double Dip" more likely rather than less likely. The nature of this "Double Dip" is an enigmatic one, but none-the-less of serious concern for a small city like ours. Should this dip become "Deflationary" like some fear than that would present a very different set of challenges than if the "Double Dip" goes "Inflationary" as several critics of the Fed's money printing program have been upset by.

There is going to be a strong need for some "math-magicians" at city hall to make it all work in 2011 and if we escape through the next budget without any dramatic tax increases or significant losses in services we should be proud of those who were able to negotiate and usher in those achievements. It is times like this that challenge, and threaten the very survival of our communities and only with lots of concessions, co-operation and civility can  Milford succeed in the road ahead. Our leaders must look to the future in a way way that prepares us for anything, because at this point anything is possible.

Pumpkin Delight Elevator Project Goes Up..Up...and Up!

The elevator at Pumpkin Delight Middle School is finally being installed after several years of complaints. Parents of disabled students thought it unfair that their kids could not reach the classrooms on the second floor.

The Americans with Disabilities Act also requires that all public buildings and places be equipped and built to accommodate disabled people. This includes properly sized bathrooms to fit wheel chairs, mirrors and sinks to be at a handicapped friendly height. Braille signs are also required for the visually impaired and of course an elevator and ramps where there are stairs.

The current problem is, that Pumpkin Delight School does not have an elevator, and the Board of education priced out the elevator and got an estimate requiring a $350,000.00 appropriation from Milford's Taxpayers CLICK HERE for original estimate.

Earlier this year the elevator issue became a point of contention, because parents and teachers who wanted to keep their neighborhood school open cited the cost of this elevator as a reason to choose Pumpkin Delight for closing instead of Simon Lake which is 100% ADA compliant. However, the Board of Education disagreed citing more land for expansion at Pumpkin Delight Click HERE.

The decision was made based on budgetary cutbacks to education that required revamping the school system to save money. Money that the Board of Alderman and the Board of Finance would not restore to the Board of Education. The board of Education was forced to redesign the school district at the behest of its interim Superintendent Michael Cummings Click HERE.

Thus far, and finally, the appropriation to make Pumpkin Delight ADA compliant has been made only it appears that the Republicans in charge have made an error of gross proportions. They were not properly quoted the cost of the elevator and are now nonchalantly asking the cash strapped taxpayers of Milford and Board of Education for another $70,000.00 for the "uplifting" elevator project CLICK HERE for new cost.

This additional funding over the original estimate is an outrage and deserves explanation. None has been given and the taxpayers were basically ignored by the media who said nothing about why the price "shot up" another 20 percent. This Elevator was quoted about a year ago, and why the cost is being allowed to be "jacked up" by the contractor is a mystery.

We need to demand answers from our Mayor on why this "Wonkavator" is so out of range from its original estimate. We need to investigate and ask why nothing has been said to the press or the people of Milford. "Forking over" another $70,000.00 of our children's education money to a contractor who can't stick to his original estimate is reprehensible and a disgrace. This is truly frivolous leadership and this article should be forwarded to decision makers in town while demanding answers.

Letter Exposes Kimball Report (KRIT) Not Implemented As Prescribed

"April 23, 2010

Dear [Board of Aldermen Members]

As elected current and former representatives of our communities, with more than 20 years between us serving the City of Milford as Planning and Zoning Board Commissioners, we know that what you do is important, difficult and at times, unfortunately, thankless. Please know, therefore, that our speaking out regarding the newly formed Department of Permitting and Land Use reflect genuine concerns regarding the re-alignment of the land use departments, and these concerns, expressed to your board before, reflect the views of many in our community.

As you know, this new department, formed by the Kimball Report Implementation Team, is a new item in the 2011 budget currently being reviewed by your board. This department was formed by the merging of three departments—Building, Inland Wetlands, and City Planning—into one department. The proposed budget reflects the cost of running those three departments and the salary of a new position, Director of the Department of Permitting and Land Use.

Comparing the budget request for this new department with the individual budgets for the once independent departments for FY 2010, shows that there is an 11% budget increase projected; this increase is comprised, in large part, of the salary for the Director. (Salaries for all three departments in FY 2010: $830,229 and the Mayor’s request is $934,385 for FY 2010). The total budget for these three departments: $892,752 FY 2010/$1,001,690 FY 2011. This increase does not include the cost of the Parsons remodel to accommodate the merging of the 3 departments which has been suggested to be $145,000. Part of the funding for this redesign and renovation is being funded through LOCIP Funds.

The increase – the largest for any City department – represents a stark departure from the intention of the Kimball Report which was initiated by the Board of Alderman and paid for from City Funds. In that report many recommendations were made to enhance the permitting process thereby ensuring better and more efficient customer service. Among the recommendations: Implementation of enhanced software; utilization of the City of Milford website; signage for Parsons Complex and a new staffing position, described in the report as a Permitting Authority or a concierge.

What the City has now is a position budgeted for a permanent Director of the Department of Permitting and Land Use who, according to the recently posted job description, has authority over three departments and professional staff, yet that position, paying $95,000 year, requires no land use experience, professional certification of any kind or post-high school education. During the almost 6 months that the interim Director has served the City, the operations of the three departments have remained pretty much the same; if anything the departments have less available resources than before this change was implemented in November of 2009. This was brought into stark clarity during your most recent budget hearing: the overtime costs for these departments remain as they were, and not only has overtime costs continued during the past 6 months, but staffing shortages are projected at the same level for all of 2011. As you know a key staff position (the Zoning Enforcement Officer) in the City Planning office remains unfilled, and a building inspector position in the building department has been removed from this year’s budget.

In short, the City is currently paying $95,000 for a position that has not alleviated staffing shortages as the Director of the Department of Permitting and Land Use testified to during the budget hearings.

What the City wanted with the hiring of an outside firm to review the permitting processes in the City was a plan for addressing the concerns of developers and residents who found working with the various departments difficult and confusing. But, the implementation of that plan has brought about little or no savings to the City and the key recommendations of the Kimball Report remain unfulfilled. But, more importantly, the cost for a Director overseeing professional staff has in fact made it impossible for these departments to be fully staffed and deprived these offices of some technical upgrades that were recommended and are necessary to expedite the permitting process.

As your board makes decisions on the budget, you are, as in good years and not-so-good years, left to make decisions about what is working and what is not as well setting the priorities of the City. Everyone has their own view; however, the cost to the City of a regular, full-time employee (including benefit package that will add at a minimum 10% additional cost for the position) overseeing the professional staff of three departments seems a very high price to pay when the City is cutting teachers or decreasing funding in other City departments or services. What makes the Director of Permitting and Land Use more important than preserving certain teaching positions?

In the case of the Director’s position, the City has had almost 6 months to review the progress of the changes envisioned by the implementation team, and the benefits to the City that that position has brought. We don’t believe that a fair and impartial look at what was envisioned by the Kimball Report and what has been delivered meets the vision of Kimball nor does it come close to satisfying the needs of the City.

The City needs to get the most value for their taxpayer’s money. We believe that if a position such as this is added to the City budget, this position should increase departmental efficiencies by providing customer service through a one-stop concierge service as envisioned in the Kimball Report. Further, as outlined in that report, providing customer service through development of internet tools that assist permit seekers with accurate information would go a long way to decreasing individual visits to various Land Use offices. Moreover, planned GIS upgrades—previously partially budgeted—should be implemented and inter-departmental information flow enhanced through electronic upgrades; all of which would allow professional staff to focus on their core jobs rather than attending to the myriad of questions and frustrations that arise everyday and could be handled by a mid-level employee. These affordable changes will help decrease overtime costs while providing builders and residents with quality and prompt information.

In addition to the known added costs of this implementation, there is also the unknown impact of pending grievances by union administrators. It would seem mandatory that this be dealt with before any position is funded.

We believe, that the City does not need to hire a permanent Director. However, if deemed necessary, that a job description be more in line with the goals set forth in Kimball—a mid-salary position where the duties emphasize the customer service aspect that is at the heart of the Kimball Report. Moreover, interdepartmental and extra-departmental communication needs to be enhanced through electronic upgrades that allow information to be shared across departments as well as providing basic land use information on the Milford City website.

An alternative scenario: “pause” further action and concentrate solely on the technology

up-grades; if necessary a tech consultant hired with oversight provided by a city administrator. At the end of the next fiscal year evaluate the need for any further change.

It doesn't make sense to us for the Board of Alderman to be looking at cutting overtime, consolidating copier costs and looking into cheaper ways to publicize announcements among the three departments without giving very serious consideration to the thousands and thousands of dollars the City is spending—and will continue to spend year after year—for a position that is not, in its present form, able to provide the full range of customer service objectives and departmental efficiencies that were the objectives of the City’s own funded report.

Please know that we understand the enormous responsibility you have and we hope you understand the value we place on your service to the City. We hope that with the understanding that we are all working together for a better Milford, that you consider our concerns and suggestions seriously."
With all respect,

Susan Shaw
Chairman, Planning and Zoning
203 874-0115

Jeanne Cervin
Past-Chairman, Planning and Zoning
203 878-1665

Jack Jansen
Past-Chairman, Planning and Zoning
203 215-4825

Independents Day Meet And Greet On Lexington Green

The shot heard around the world, and the start of the American Revolution in 1775 began at Lexington Green in Massachusetts. In like manner, and to celebrate that monumental event, the Newly formed Independent Party will be at Lexington Green in Milford for a "Meet and Greet" and celebration of our Republics Independence from the aggression and tyranny imposed by foreign monarchs.

The meet and greet is set for July 18Th, 2009 and is open to all friendly voters, and their children, who live in Milford. Refreshments and appetisers will be served, and the event will commence promptly at 4:00P.M. and will conclude at 8:00 P.M. feel free to drop by at your leisure between those hours.

The address is 44 Lexington Way N. here in Milford. To RSVP or to request directions call (203) 247-4357, or (203) 247-7933.

Officially there is no charge for this event, but attendees are encouraged to support the Independent Party by making donations. Acceptable donations are between $5.00 and $100.00. If anyone wishes to donate more please let the MC at the event know and proper paperwork will be made available. Donations can be made by cash, or check only no credit or debit cards.

We look forward to seeing you there the Saturday of this event. To e-mail any questions you have do so at frank@mycomputerfox.com.

To see photos of the Mass. Original Lexington Green Click HERE

Milford's Boardwalk Project Suspended Indefinitely

The long-delayed boardwalk to connect Silver Sands State Park and Walnut Beach has been indefinitely suspended, state officials said Monday.

About $1.5 million for the roughly $2 million project had been approved by the state Bond Commission, according to city officials.

But the work never made it past the planning stage before being suspended by the state departments of Environmental Protection and Public Works in the latest round of cost-saving measures.

At this point, due to budgetary constraints on the two agencies, work on the proposed boardwalk has been indefinitely suspended,” DEP spokesman Dennis Schain said in an e-mail message.

The news was a shock to city officials Monday, who were last told construction would occur in autumn.

“This really comes as a surprise,” said Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. “They gave us no clue that they were considering this. I have not heard anything more since months ago, when it was a go.”

The project has been mired in years of delays with repeated announcements that funding had been secured and work was about to begin, only to have a projected start date pushed back.

About a year ago, the project was delayed when piping plovers were found nesting where the boardwalk was proposed to be built.

Plans were altered to avoid the federally and state protected species of birds, but in the meantime the economy turned sour and the plans for the boardwalk were put on hold by the DPW and DEP.

“Money was approved for this project, but before any action was taken with regards with the funds that were allocated, a decision has been made to suspend the project,” said Kevin Kopetz, managing attorney for the DPW.

“We began, unfortunately, to experience the economic circumstance that everyone is aware of.”

The latest news was frustrating to Walnut Beach Association President Joe Garbus, who has long worked to revitalize the Walnut Beach area.

The boardwalk was expected to draw foot traffic to Walnut Beach to breathe new life into the businesses in the area.

“It’s extremely disappointing,” he said. “They made a plan, made a second plan for the piping plovers and each time we were told the money was in hand. It was OK then, but we wait a year and now we can’t continue with the project? I don’t think it’s fair.”

Kopetz said there is a chance the project will be revisited if the state’s fiscal situation improves.

By James Tinley, Register Staff

ORIGINAL STORY POSTED HERE

Jonathan Law Improvements In The Hands of Milford's Alderman

The Board of Alderman will be voting on the bonding for the Jonathan Law high school addition at its meeting next Monday, July 6th. The meeting will be at city hall and begins at 7:30.

It has been suggested to me that without considerable vocal support for this project it may be doomed. The mayor, who originally committed to carrying out the renovations in phases, has now stated he does not support bonding for the cost of this phase at this time. The Alderman need to hear your voice on this topic, personally at this meeting. Residents can address their comments to the alderman for 3 minutes each. Even if all you say is "please support the bonding for the high school addition" it will help them see there is support among residents for this work to move forward.

We need to get this done. WE NEED PEOPLE TO BE THERE. Get your neighbors to go, bring a friend. Encourage students who have experienced the cramped quarters to attend. Forward this blog to others. Get the ear of West Shore and Harborside middle school parents you know and explain to them the need for this addition. Their children will reap the benefits. This addition is essential if plans for a freshman academy are to move forward - see talking points below.

I understand it is disappointing to Foran parents that the Foran project is not ready to be included in this bonding. I would hope you would still support this need and I expect that "the Law side of town" will be as supportive of the Foran project when it is ready to move forward.

Below are some talking points regarding the Law addition:

JLHS is an old school with limited space and growing needs.
21st Century programming is more hands on/student centered and requires more room.
Every inch of JLHS is being utilized, and then some. Several Special Education teachers are working in small make-shift classrooms that are, in reality, storage spaces. 6 or 7 teachers are teaching "on a cart" and it is anticipated that next year more will be doing so.

The plan calls for much needed storage space in a basement area under the new addition. Right now the main storage area is behind the stage - problematic when events such as plays, the West Shore band concert and Moving Up Celebration are held.

The addition will allow the "Freshman Academy" concept to move forward. This concept allows the 9th grade students to remain together in a central area as a transition into high school, where team teachers have greater flexibility with the flow of time and instruction. The addition also includes the final two science labs which will be used for freshman physical science. This will bring Law's total # of science labs to 10 - needed and equal with Foran (note while our enrollments are relatively equal, Law has been making do with two less science rooms. Two of my children had freshman science on a cart!)

The current concept of "study halls" being held in large spaces (i.e. auditoriums without tables or the cafeteria when available) does not service students well and space is needed for a smaller resource center to accommodate groups of students needing extra help. Addition will allow for this.

Current bid 25% less than expected - a million dollar savings
Bond rates are low, reimbursement rate from the state high now, will be lower next year.

Expected revisions to code regulations will bring need for plans to be redrawn and additional code upgrades will have to be added.

Again, please attend this meeting on Monday, July 6th, 7:30 pm at city hall. Feel free to forward on this blog link by e-mail. Contact me if you have questions. Let me know if you can attend and apologies in advance if you receive any e-mail more than once!

Thank you!
Sue Glennon
President
One Voice-Milford High Schools PTSA

********************************************

Peter Spalthoff Independent Candidate For Mayor Supports This Project.

Click Here for Peters Statement.

Milford's Local Tax Burden Nothing Compared To Obama's

Most people who follow the news know that Obama's budget is the largest in US history, far greater than that of every President before him combined. While no one here at this blog is going to focus on who to blame we instead decided to just be an accountant and follow the public debt.

To begin, it is widely published in the local Milford newspapers that our local debt is about 145,000,000.00, money of which is mostly derived from property taxes. The president, and congress pretty much know that they cannot get money in the same way. They also know that Income taxes alone no longer cut it so they instead began a long history of "as in the game of Monopoly" mortgaging America or taking out huge loans on our country, its assets, and its good faith and credit to repay.

This year is the year of debt and acceptance that someone will eventually come looking for their money. The Chinese indicated they are "Concerned over our ability to repay them back."

We all know what happens in those gangster movies when the victims of usury and criminal lending reach an apex. Usually the bad guys begin to break fingers and take stuff of value while the borrowers go into hiding. Well if Argentina should be our model than the thievery will come much in the same style, as we run out of people to borrow from and create rapid inflation, or as Ron Paul puts it a "silent way of stealing from our savings and pensions."

But here is our local dillemma excluding the states problems. This number is just the estimated Obama bill for Milford. This figure is a percentage of Obama's 3.5 Trillion budget of which the city of Milford is now responsible for $612,051,000.00 or simply put take your property taxes and multiply them about six times and we will have funded this this years Federal Budget.



This figure also does not include the 500,000,000.00 the state of CT intends to borrow. Clearly math and accounting is a mere platitude to be ignored when it comes to politics, but what say the bill collectors when they come looking for the money and we have none. Its my opinion that those characters are a bit more challenging than the ones at City hall, what do you think, is this taxation without representation and can you outline anything we got for our 612 Million? One must ask WHERE IS THIS MONEY GOING?

The photo above is the amount of money, apx One Billion Dollars the citizens of Milford paid and borrowed by virtue of Local, State and Federal Government. This amount may very well exceed the one Billion mark when interest is added on the money borrowed in our name. Double click the picture to fully appreciate how much cash that truly is and then ask yourself why you are powerless to stop it, and why this is not your personal or families concern.

Police Seeking Missing Teen

MILFORD — Police are seeking the public’s help in finding a 14-year-old city girl who has not been seen since Sunday.

The teen, Maria Iabone, shown, is described as a white, 5 feet 3 inches tall and about 115 lbs. She has long brown hair, brown eyes, and is wearing braces. She was last seen wearing leopard print tank top, dark colored sweatshirt, and jeans, police said.

Maria is possibly in the company of Nicholas Thiel, 18, who operates a 1998 green Chevy Camaro, bearing the Connecticut temporary plate 448K6, police said. Maria was last seen Friday at her home in Milford. Police did not provide the location of the home. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call Sgt. A. Vitti at the Milford Police Department Special Investigations Unit, (203) 878-6551 or 783-4766.
posted by Helen Bennett Harvey

Milford's Lambert Speechless on Losses

Jim Amann touted in his 2007 legislative update the great progress he made in Hartford. One of those accomplishments was the court house annex, and another was the boardwalk connecting the beaches together in Milford.

These are all eerie reminders of the past, and a true testament that our new State Representative Barbara Lambert is holding true to her word. This is something she said to to the Milford paper a few months ago. Lambert was quoted and used the word "intimidating" when referring to the atmosphere at the state capitol.

Should we be surprised that she has not spoken out against the very things that her predecessor Amann touted as his successes? For one I am personally thrilled that the courthouse suffered a defeat, as I see the downtown courthouse project as being minimally beneficial to local business. The downtown courthouse is little more than a hang out for angry, depressed miserable people. This is something I would love to see replaced with a Maritime Museum or something more happy. Perhaps the courthouse can move to an industrial area where misery will not negatively impact our community.

That digression aside the defeat of the courthouse and the boardwalk was certainly to be expected in these financially troubled times. What was not expected is Lambert's Silence on this issue. Her silence suggests to me that she is making a defacto statement that she, is either asleep, or does not see this loss as worth commenting over. Whatever the case I believe she needs to make a statement about her position and what she intends to do about it.

These Amann achievements now undone or "shelved" for a while what next for the future development of Milford? What legacy, or accomplishments will she bring in these lean times? and What should we expect her to deliver to Milford?

Certainly more than the undoing of what previous Democrats have touted as accomplishments for our town. This blog is a reminder that a hypocritical silence exists at the state level in Milford, a silence that is "intimidated" and remains silent as her parties accomplishments are being all snatched away.

While I say "good riddance" to the "court house annex" and the "Boardwalk" what say those who must feel betrayed by the ease of which they were reneged from our community? Do Democrats even bother to criticize or fight to hold on to that which they deem a success? Apparently not because Lambert appears to too scared to fight for her constituents!

Owner Distraught Over Missing Dog

When resident Kellie Roper brought her pet greyhound to Companion Animal Hospital of Milford on Dec. 29, she never expected she would be going home alone.
Roper adopted Finnley Nov. 1 from ReGap CT, a rescue group, and brought the dog to the animal hospital for dental work.

"When I first called to make an appointment for Finnley I asked if they knew how to handle a greyhound. They said ‘yes’ they did," Roper said. "Apparently they don’t."
She has not seen Finnley since that day.

Despite some sightings of Finnley in the Walnut Beach area, a widespread search and newspaper advertisements the animal hospital placed, the animal has not turned up.
"People I have never met have come from 1½ hours away, scrambling through brush and forest helping me look for my dog," Roper said.

"People in Milford have amazed me calling with wishes and prayers. It’s nice to know there is still such generosity left in the world," she said.

Roper said Finnley is black, with a gray muzzle, weighs 54 pounds and wears a pink/purple collar with yellow bones on it and might be dragging a leash. Roper also said the greyhound has a REGAP of CT tag, and that the dog is shy but extremely friendly and loves the sound of children.

Roper said she was told by hospital owner Dr. Kenneth Preli that veterinarian Dr. Dave Champaigne took Finnley outside after the Dec. 29 dental work."He said she became tangled in her leash and when (Champaigne) went to untangle her he dropped the leash and she bolted," Roper said.

Hospital administrator Rona Preli said when Champaigne went to pick up the leash Finnley "was probably disoriented." "I was told he chased her into the K-Mart lot and jumped in a stranger’s car to try and follow her. He borrowed a cell phone and called the office and they evacuated the office and went looking for her," Roper said.

Rona Preli said eight of the office staff of 10 people immediately left to look for the greyhound and searched until 8 p.m. that night and for the next four days. Since then, she said, staff have continued to canvass the area, putting up fliers and talking to people. Roper said the greyhound community, as well as the Milford community, have been extremely helpful, finding time to help her repeatedly canvass the beach area and put up fliers everywhere.

Rona Preli said the hospital contacted area police and fire departments and animal control officials. Roper said Milford Animal Control, which has increased patrols in the vicinity Finnley has been seen, has been "truly amazing."

Roper said before the dog was lost, Finnley had changed her life.
"She has made me take a step back from work stress and Ironman training. She has made me relax. She has been a wonderful stress reliever," Roper said.
Anyone with information on Finnley can reach Roper at (203) 506-4790.

Bridget Albert

This dog is very shy and will shy away from strangers, the search still goes on as flyers were being handed out at Stop & Shop as early as this weekend.

Flooding In Devon Angers Residents

The Corner of Bridgeport Ave.and Naugatuck Ave. is a pretty wet spot in town. Residents in that area have been coming forward and complaining that their basements are flooding during periods of heavy rain.

The Devon Revitalization committee is taking the heat. Mayor Richetelli and Jim Amann the two most notable committee members have been put on the hot seat. Local residents have stated that the aesthetic improvements have not done much to improve the quality of life of those residents who are affected by the flood rains.

Our state and local leaders assured us flooding action this week. Both Amann and Richetelli indicated that they are aware of the flooding problems and blamed the areas pipes as being old. Richetelli said that these pipes carry away the rain water intended for a 1930's Milford and were not designed for today's neighborhoods. Richetelli also said the city has money for improvements on one street Naugatuck Ave., but the other street Bridgeport ave. is the responsibility of the state. Richetelli said it makes more sense to do both projects at the same time and will be waiting for the state funding before commiting to any work.

Amann on the other hand took to defending the Devon revitalization committee and said that the complainers should have done so prior to the rain problems. Amann said that during his entire tenure as a state rep. he had no idea that flooding was an issue with anyone in Devon.

As it stands this contention between our city and state leaders will experience continued pressure as they are confronted with more angry flood victims after each torrential downpour. Both leaders agree that urgent action is needed and have agreed to put this project on the fast track but not until the state delivers on their end.

The state may also slow down this project with a pre-construction engineering study aimed at figuring out exactly how to abate the flooding waters.

Anyone who wishes to address this problem should direct their concerns to the Milford Flooding and Erosion Control Board.