2023 New Canaan Answerbook

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New Canaan is 22.5 square miles and is bordered by Pound Ridge, N.Y., in the north, Darien in the south, Norwalk and Wilton in the east, and Stamford in the west.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town’s estimated population was 20,622 in April 2020. The population numbered 19,752 at the time of the last official census in 2010, reflecting a population increase of 4.5%.

According to 2021 estimates from the American Community Survey, the town’s racial make up is: 85.6% white; 0.7% Black or African-American; 6.5% Asian; 5.2% Hispanic or Latino; and 2% two or more races.

The town had more than 6,900 households as of 2021, with an average of 2.96 persons per household. The town’s median age is 43, compared to 40 in Fairfield County and 39 in the state of Connecticut.

According to Niche.com, 32% of residents fall between the ages of 45 and 64. The rest of the population is delineated as follows: under 10, 13%; 10–17, 15%; 18–24, 9%; 25–34, 5%; 35–44, 11%; 65 and up, 15%.

Economics & Education

The median household income is $214,977, and the poverty rate is 2.6%, according to Niche.com.

education / economics

According to state Department of Labor statistics from December 2022, New Canaan’s labor force numbered 8,262 people. Of those, 8,014 were employed and 248 were unemployed. The unemployment rate was reportedly 3%.

Niche.com reported that 38% of residents have a master’s degree or higher. 42% have a bachelor’s degree, and 12 percent have some form of college or associate’s degree. Only 6 percent of residents hold a high school diploma or equivalent.

Miscellaneous Facts

According to 2021 estimates from the American Community Survey, New Canaan residents age 16 and up spend roughly 38 minutes traveling to work. About 98 percent of households have a computer, and 97 percent have a broadband Internet subscription.

New Canaan is 59 miles southwest of Hartford, the state’s capital. It’s 41 miles from New York City and 152 miles from Boston.

According to weather.com, the average high is 83 degrees in July, and the average low is 24 degrees in January. The record high was 102 degrees in July 1995, and the record low was 18 degrees below zero in January 1982.

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History!

The History of New Canaan

The area that is now New Canaan was first settled in 1715 as part of the towns of Norwalk and Stamford. In 1731, Connecticut’s colonial legislature approved a new Congregational Parish and named it Canaan Parish. Depending on the location of their house, residents of Canaan Parish still had to vote, pay taxes, serve on juries, and file deeds in either Norwalk or Stamford.

New Canaan was incorporated in 1801; the first town meeting was held on June 29 of that year. Upon incorporation, New Canaan found itself without a village, main street, town hall, central common, or town green because Canaan Parish was not planned to serve as a town. Its primary industries were agriculture and milling, and shoe manufacturing began in 1818.

As New Canaan’s shoe business gained momentum in the early 19th century, regional settlements of clustered houses, mills, and schools developed into district centers. Some of the districts were centered on Ponus Ridge, West Road, Oenoke Ridge, Smith Ridge, Talmadge Hill, and Silvermine.

The village of New Canaan grew later from a similar district that was more strategically placed than its peripheral counterparts. In 1825, the Town House (now part of the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society’s campus) was built on Oenoke Ridge. It served as the first Town Hall and meeting place for the Masonic Lodge.

With the construction of the railroad spur from Stamford to New Canaan in 1866, many of New York City’s wealthy residents discovered its quiet, peaceful nature and built magnificent summer homes in town. The housing boom brought even more residents after World War II. Many of the summer visitors became year-round settlers and commuted to their jobs in New York, creating the residential community that exists today.

The first carol sing took place on God’s Acre in 1916, and in 1928 the first traffic light was installed in town. The now iconic Moreno clock at the intersection of Elm Street and South Avenue was installed in 1997 in honor of late First Selectman Louis Moreno. In 2003, New Canaan elected its first female First Selectman, Judy Neville.

Where does the name come from?

Canaan was a region within Norwalk, according to land records, and the Congregationalists chose the biblical name Canaan Parish when the community became a parish. When the town was incorporated in 1801, it was called New Canaan since there was already a town named Canaan in the northwest part of the state.

Where did ‘Next Station to Heaven’ come from?

The phrase — which can be found on a sign at the New Canaan Metro-North Railroad station — originated from an 1891 article in New Haven’s “Weekly Record” newspaper. Its editor, longtime resident Willard C. Warren, quoted a New York man with a summer residence in New Canaan who said, “New Canaan is the next station this side of heaven.”

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society

Founded in 1889 as the New Canaan Historical Society, the organization is located at 13 Oenoke Ridge. It operates and maintains seven historic buildings, mounts exhibitions and programs throughout the year, collects and preserves materials of local historical value, supports publications on local history, and offers tours and special events, including the Ice Cream Social and biennial Modern House Day Tour. Phone: 203-966-1776. Website: nchistory.org

Genealogy Research

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society Library has more than 3,500 volumes on genealogy and area history — including tax and real estate records, Its housed in an addition behind the society’s Town House. The library is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The New Canaan Library is also a good resource for genealogical searches.

Historic Points of Interest

Waveny Mansion on South Avenue was built in 1912 by Lewis H. Lapham on what had been Prospect Farm, an early summer estate. Lapham was a co-founder of Texaco Oil. In 1967, the town acquired the “castle” and 300 acres of surrounding parkland.

The Little Red Schoolhouse on Carter Street was built in 1865, the third school in that location. It was used to teach kindergarten through fifth grade until 1957, and was the last one-room schoolhouse in use in Connecticut. It was maintained by the Friends of the Little Red Schoolhouse through the years, and is now a museum operated by the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society. It is open for special occasions or by appointment.

The sculptor John Rogers’ studio, a National Historic Landmark, and the 1799 Rock School House are located on the grounds of the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society. Website: nchistory.org

The Philip Johnson Glass House, also a National Historic Landmark, is located on 49 acres off Ponus Ridge. It is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and available for tours. The Visitor Center is at 199 Elm St. Phone: 203-5949884. Website: theglasshouse.org

Also listed on the National Register of Historic Places are the Hanford Davenport House on Oenoke Ridge, the Merritt Parkway, and two private homes.

The Gores Pavilion in Irwin Park was designed by mid-century modern architect Landis Gores in 1960. It is operated by the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society and is open by appointment.

The New Canaan Railroad Station, built in 1868, is one of the earliest surviving stations in Connecticut. Its Gothic Revival-style architecture is not usually seen in train station designs around the state.

The oldest surviving house is the Benedict-Eels-Thatcher House on Carter Street, built in 1724. The town has 230 homes more than 100 years old, and the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society has placed plaques on 88 of them. Thirty existing houses date from 1772-1773 and are known as the Drummond Visitation Homes.

Expanding from Church Hill, better known as God’s Acre, the town’s Historic District encompasses 21 buildings along Main Street, Oenoke Ridge, Park Street, and Saint John’s Place. Included in the Historic District are St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, the Congregational Church, and the 1825 Town House.

The Advertiser’s Beginnings

The first issue of The New Canaan Advertiser printed on July 25, 1908. The newspaper was the brainchild of John E. Hersam. His primary intention was to provide information about the town’s baseball team that was lacking in the other newspaper, The New Canaan Messenger. That paper ceased publication in 1912.

Hersam’s motto — “Grow or Go” — proved prophetic, as the company continued to grow in size and scope over the next century. Hersam Publishing eventually merged with Acorn Press and today is part of Hearst Connecticut Media Group.

Recreation!

The New Canaan Recreation Department is located on the second floor of Waveny House in Waveny Park (677 South Ave.). The office is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Information about recreation programs, permits, public parks and facilities, and special events can be viewed and down-

loaded online. Phone: 203-594-3600. Website: newcanaan. info/departments/recreation

Town parks are open to the public without membership or paid permits; however, sports facilities are open to residents only. Some facilities require a pre-paid membership, such as Waveny Pool, Kiwanis Park Swimming, Waveny Platform

Recreation!

Tennis Courts, Mead Park Tennis and Pickleball Courts, Spencer’s Run Dog Park, and the high school tennis courts.

Public playgrounds are located at the elementary schools as well as Dixon, Kiwanis, and Mead parks. The town has synthetic and grass athletic fields that are strictly monitored by permit only. The baseball/softball fields are also reserved for permitted use.

The largest park in town is Waveny Park, which spans 300 acres between South Avenue and Lapham Road, the former estate of the Lapham family. The park includes ball fields, platform tennis courts, the Waveny Lodge, grass athletic fields, synthetic turf fields, a disc golf area, a golf practice area, 3.5 miles of cross country/walking trails, an adult fitness area, tennis courts, a track, the PowerHouse Performing Arts Theatre, the Carriage Barn Arts Center, and the Waveny Pool.

Waveny House is available for meetings, special events, weddings, and other occasions. Spencer’s Run Dog Park is a fenced, 1.5-acre area in Waveny Park near the Lapham Road entrance. Here, dogs may run off-leash and play with their canine friends. Dogs must be pre-registered to use the dog park.

The Lapham Community Center is also located in Waveny Park and provides programs and services for adults in an informal setting. Continuing education courses, various health and exercise programs, and numerous special events are offered throughout the year.

Mead Memorial Park is a 24-acre park near the intersection of Mead and Park streets. There are baseball fields, Har-Tru tennis courts, a pond, a batting cage, and a large playground area. The Mead Park Lodge offers accessible bathrooms and a full-service snack bar.

The 13-acre Kiwanis Park on Old Norwalk Road is open from June to August. It includes a large pond for swimming and sunbathing, and is the site of many camps during the summer months. It also has a playground, snack bar, restrooms, and picnic area. Individual or family permits are available seasonally from the Recreation Department.

Irwin Park encompasses 36 acres at the intersection of Weed Street and Wahackme Road. It features a surfaced trail for jogging, walking, and biking, recreation fields, and picnic tables and chairs on the great lawn.

Mill Pond Park is at the corner of East and Millport avenues and includes walking trails and a large pond.

Ed Dixon Memorial Park is a small park on Hoyt Street with a playground.

Bristow Bird Sanctuary on Old Stamford Road offers quiet, wooded walking trails and a place to enjoy nature.

New Canaan Nature Center

The New Canaan Nature Center (144 Oenoke Ridge) is an environmental organization and sanctuary dedicated to helping people of all ages understand, appreciate, and care for the world of nature. Established in 1960, this 40-acre preserve features such diverse habitats as wet meadows and wood-

lands. Among the programs offered are a nature-oriented preschool, school outreach, summer nature camp, horticulture program, workshops, walks, trips, and special events. The center also features a birds of prey exhibit, live animal teaching collection, greenhouse, outdoor gardens, and gift shop. Phone: 203-966-9577. Website: newcanaannature.org

Swimming Opportunities

Waveny Pool is one of two outdoor swim facilities operated by the Recreation Department. Its located in Waveny Park and open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The eight-lane, 50-meter pool has lap lanes and a diving well. There is also a kiddie pool, restrooms, dressing rooms, showers, a lifeguard first-aid station, and a snack bar. Swimming lessons are offered to children 3 and older. Seasonal passes are required and available for sale through the Recreation Department’s office and online.

A swimming pond in Kiwanis Park is open from early June through early August. The large man-made pond is spring water-fed and circulated daily with treatments to meet state standards. The pavilion greatly enhances the park and offers restrooms, a snack bar, and a deck with picnic tables. The park also contains a large play structure. Seasonal passes are required and available for sale through the Recreation Department’s office and online.

The New Canaan YMCA (564 South Ave.) has two indoor pools for its members and offers many swimming programs, including competitive teams. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org.

Swim Teams & Rowing Clubs

The Recreation Department sponsors the Gators, a competitive swim team at Waveny Pool for children whose families are pool pass holders. Tryouts take place in midJune, with practices on weekday mornings from late June to late July. Additional competitive teams include Waveny Pool Diving and Waveny Pool Water Polo. The New Canaan YMCA also has several competitive swim teams.

The Maritime Rowing Club (3 Jennings Place, Norwalk) has programs for experienced rowers as well as learn-to-row programs for novice adults. The club offers competitive and recreational programs. Phone: 203-854-5492. Website: maritimerowing.com

The Norwalk River Rowing Association (1 Moodys Lane, Norwalk) has instructional, recreational, and competitive programs for children and adults. It also offers corporate team-building programs. Phone: 203-866-0080. Website: norwalkriverrowing.org

Tennis, Platform Tennis, & Pickleball

The Recreation Department has all-weather tennis courts at the far end of the high school track open seasonally from dawn to dusk. The courts are available without reservations. Mead Park has eight Har-Tru tennis courts that are open

Recreation!

from May to October. Permits are required and available seasonally through the Recreation Department’s office or online. The courts are monitored daily, and a convenient court reservation system is available for permit holders online. Tennis clinics and instruction are organized seasonally by the Recreation Department.

In summer 2021, New Canaan opened five brand-new all-weather pickleball courts. The courts are monitored by the Recreation Department, require seasonal permits, and have an online court reservation system.

There are five platform tennis courts located in Waveny Park. Seasonal permits are available for purchase from the Recreation Department. The courts are monitored daily, and a convenient court reservation system is available for permit holders online. Clinics and instruction are organized seasonally by the Recreation Department.

Adult Sports Programs

The Recreation Department offers a variety of sports programming for adults, including aqua-fitness classes, tennis instruction, paddle tennis instruction, golf instruction, cross country races in Waveny Park, an adult softball league, yoga, and pickleball. Both women’s and men’s paddle leagues are coordinated by private groups at the Waveny Paddle Courts. Phone: 203-594-3600. Website: newcanaan. info/departments/recreation

The New Canaan YMCA offers adult fitness programs, as well as recreational basketball, volleyball, racquetball, and squash. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org

Horseback Riding

The New Canaan Mounted Troop is a nonprofit devoted to building leadership, responsibility, and confidence through sound horsemanship. The horsemanship program offers instruction for riders of all ages and abilities, as well as instruction in stable management, safety, and horse care. Phone: 203-966-0634. Website: newcanaanmountedtroop.org

Walking Trails & Road Races

Trails are located at the New Canaan Nature Center and the Bristow Bird Sanctuary. Waveny Park has 3.5 miles of jogging and walking trails. Irwin Park features a one-mile walking and jogging trail. The track at New Canaan High School is also available for running.

Grace Farms (365 Lukes Wood Road) has hiking trails on its 80-acre property. The land includes open meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and ponds. The Grace Farms Foundation sponsors many nature-related activities, such as birdwatching and nighttime astronomy viewings. Admission is free. Phone: 203-920-1702. Website: gracefarms.org

The Recreation Department offers Waveny Summer Cross Country Races on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. during the summer months. The three-mile course follows Waveny Park trails, and there is also a half-mile fun run for kids.

The town’s Turkey Trot, a benefit race, is typically held the Sunday before Thanksgiving at Waveny Park. Website: newcanaanturkeytrot.com.

The MMRF Race for Research 5K Walk/Run benefits the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, founded by New Canaan resident Kathy Giusti. Website: themmrf.org

Bicycling

Sound Cyclists organizes group rides throughout Fairfield County year-round, as well as social events and a newsletter. Members are entitled to discounts at many area bicycle shops. Website: soundcyclists.com

The state Department of Transportation offers maps of multi-use trails throughout the state, as well as a statewide bicycle map. Children 12 and under must wear a helmet when bicycling in Connecticut. Website: ct.gov/dot

Cross-Country Skiing & Ice Skating

People may cross-country ski at any of the town parks when conditions permit. Grace Farms has also prepared trails for cross-country skiing in the past.

The New Canaan Winter Club (604 Frogtown Road) has an NHL-regulation rink and a clubhouse. The private club was founded in 1957 and offers family activities as well as hockey and figure skating. Lessons are available. Phone: 203-9664280. Website: ncwinterclub.com

Local Private Clubs

The Country Club of New Canaan’s (95 Country Club Road) beginnings go back to the 1890s. It offers an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts, paddle courts, squash court, and a full-service dining room. Phone: 203966-3513. Website: ccofnewcanaan.org

The New Canaan Field Club (164 Smith Ridge Road) opened in 1957. The club has tennis courts, paddle courts, a swimming pool and wading pool, an aquatics programs, playground, and pavilions for socializing and entertaining. Phone: 203-966-6879. Website: nc-fc.com

The Lake Club (165 Thayer Pond Road) is located on the New Canaan-Wilton border. Facilities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, paddle courts, basketball court, playground, and a small lake for boating, canoeing, and fishing. Phone: 203-762-5600. Website: thelakeclub.org

New Canaan does not have any public golf courses, but nearby towns like Norwalk, Stamford, and Westport do. The Recreation Department offers golf lessons for youngsters and adults.

Fishing

Fishing is available to those with licenses in all public ponds, lakes, and streams, unless otherwise posted. Inland fishing licenses are $28-$32 and are required for anyone 18 and older. A trout and salmon stamp is required of those keeping trout or fishing in special trout or salmon waters. Check ct.gov/deep for details.

Licenses are issued for the calendar year and expire Dec. 31; they are available at the Town Clerk’s office and many tackle shops. Fishing licenses are not required in the marine district unless you’re taking lobsters or menhaden. For details, check the Connecticut Angler’s Guide, available free at the Town Clerk’s office or online at ct.gov/deep

The George Cogswell Memorial Fishing Derby is held every spring at Mill Pond and sponsored by the New Canaan Recreation Department. The tradition was started by the Police Benevolent Association in the early 1970s and named for former New Canaan police officer George Cogswell.

Children &Teens!

New Canaan Youth Services supports the town’s youth and family programs, activities that address developmental needs, and helps youth and families obtain appropriate social services and other resources.

This department offers free and confidential services to young people up to age 18 and their families. It evaluates and coordinates existing community resources for families, and develops new supportive strategies to meet changing needs. Youth Services promotes programs that foster self-esteem, behavioral health initiatives, peer support, and conflict

resolution in coordination with other local agencies. The department provides crisis intervention for parents and youth in need with an emphasis on behavioral health issues and domestic violence. Phone: 203-594-3076.

Special Education Network, or SPED*NET, is a group of parents dedicated to ensuring local activities and services are accessible to children with special needs. It works to educate the public on special education in schools and disability-related issues in the community. Website: spednet. org. Email: info@spednet.org.

Children &Teens!

Parks & Playgrounds

From walking trails to sports courts and more, New Canaan has several family-friendly parks, including Bristow Bird Sanctuary (47 Old Stamford Road); Irwin Park (848 Weed St.) Lapham Community Center (677 South Ave.) Mill Pond Park (Millport Avenue); Olive and George Lee Memorial Garden (89 Chichester Road); Mead Memorial Park (36 Richmond Hill Road); Waveny Park and Waveny Pool (677 South Ave.); and the Spencer’s Run Dog Park at Waveny (user code needed to enter).

Playgrounds are located at Ed Dixon Memorial Park (Hoyt and East Maple streets); Kiwanis Park (77 Old Norwalk Road); Mead Memorial Park (241 Park St.); South Elementary School (8 Farm Road); East Elementary School (54 Little Brook Road); and West Elementary School (769 Ponus Ridge Road).

Aiding Troubled Children

New Canaan CARES (838 Weed St.) is a nonprofit community organization that works to advance the health and well-being of youth and families. CARES provides responsive education programs that support and strengthen parenting skills, positive youth development, and healthy lifestyles. CARES is committed to empowering youth, strengthening family, and building community through educational workshops, leadership trainings, informational seminars, and more. Phone: 203-966-7862. Website: newcanaancares.org

The New Canaan Coalition, facilitated by New Canaan CARES, is the state-sponsored Local Prevention Council (LPC) for the town. The LPC is a group of affected families, community organizations, concerned citizens, faith organizations, first responders, government, the recovery community, schools and youth organizations, and treatment providers committed to increasing public awareness of alcohol, tobacco, and drug prevention strategies, and stimulate the development and implementation of local prevention activities, primarily focused on youth.

The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut is a nonprofit mental health resource for children and families that receives referrals from schools, courts, human service agencies, and private physicians. Self-referrals are also encouraged. The center has an Emergency Mobile Crisis Service that provides immediate mental health assessments and stabilization services 24/7 for children and adolescents. Dial 211 for assistance. Phone: 203-324-6127. Website: childguidancect.org

The Den for Grieving Kids, a program of Family Centers, offers peer support programs that help children and families cope with a loss and begin the healing process. Website: familycenters.org/The-Den-for-Grieving-Kids

Kids in Crisis is an agency of United Way that offers preventive services and immediate intervention for children in crisis. As licensed by the Department of Children and Families, it provides both crisis counseling and a short-term residential shelter for children of all ages. Support and counseling is available for free 24/7. Phone: 203-661-1911. Website: kidsincrisis.org

Reporting Cases of Child Abuse

Call 911 if it’s an emergency. In other circumstances, the state hotline for reporting child abuse or neglect is 800-8422288. You may also call New Canaan Youth Services at 203-594-3076 for free and confidential guidance. Staff members are mandated reporters and must call the state Department of Children and Families if they suspect a case of abuse or neglect.

Day Care Facilities

The Day Care Center of New Canaan (156 South Ave.) offers a preschool program and after-school program for children age 3 through sixth grade. Phone: 203-966-9247.

Website: daycarecenternc.org

The Tot’s Spot (87 Old Stamford Road) serves children from 15 months to 5 years of age. There are full- and part-time programs available, and summer camp is typically run in July and August. Phone: 203-972-3161. Website: totsspotnewcanaan.com

The New Canaan YMCA offers Rainbow Station, a year-round, full-day program for children six weeks through 5 years of age at the Child Development Center (564 South Ave.). Kids Unlimited is an afterschool program offered at the YMCA for kindergarten through sixth-grade students. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org/ youth-development-programs

The state’s day care licensing office maintains current listings of all state-licensed facilities in Connecticut. This free service offers child care counselors who help parents assess the quality of different programs. Phone: 800-282-6063. Website: portal.ct.gov/OEC

Programs for Children and Teens

The New Canaan Recreation Department (677 South Ave.) offers a variety of summer activities for children and teens, including sports leagues, programs, and summer camps. New Canaan’s town parks offer baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and soccer fields as well as swimming and jogging. Phone: 203-594-3600. Website: newcanaan.info/ departments/recreation

The New Canaan YMCA (564 South Ave.) typically holds many programs and events for youth, including monthly Middle School Nights, Youth at the Y events, and filmmaking and cooking classes for teens. The Y’s wellness facilities and group exercise classes are open to members 15 and older. Volunteers supervise activities such as swimming, basketball, dance parties, 3D movies, and special events. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org

The New Canaan Library (151 Main St.) has many activities and volunteer opportunities for young people. The library advises everyone to check the website for current information on opening hours and services before planning a visit. Phone: 203-594-5000. Website: newcanaanlibrary.org

LiveGirl is a Connecticut-based nonprofit that seeks to

Children &Teens!

empower confident, inclusive leaders. Its mission is to prepare the next generation of diverse, brave female leaders with skills, community, and connections so that all girls may thrive and make a positive impact on the world. Website: golivegirl.org

Youth Sports

The New Canaan Recreation Department (677 South Ave.) offers a variety of sports for children, including soccer, baseball, T-ball, flag football, paddle tennis, field hockey, and golf and tennis lessons. Phone: 203-594-3600. Website: newcanaan.info/departments/recreation.

The New Canaan YMCA (564 South Ave.) offers a variety of sports and recreation programs, including basketball, gymnastics, taekwondo, flag football, baseball, golf, lacrosse, strength training, yoga, and swimming and diving instruction. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org

New Canaan Baseball/Softball offers baseball and softball opportunities to boys and girls ages 4 to 15. Website: newcanaanbbsb.com; newcanaansb.com.

The Darien Little League’s Challenger Division is a program that enables developmentally and physically-challenged youth ages 5-21 to enjoy the full benefits of Little League in an environment structured to their abilities. Website: dybs.org

The New Canaan Football Club offers soccer programs to children in pre-K through eighth grade. The organization also has travel teams for its older players that compete around the state in the Connecticut Junior Soccer Program. Website: clubs.bluesombrero.com/newcanaan.

New Canaan Youth Football offers tackle and cheerleading programs for boys and girls in grades 3-8. It is part of the eight-town Fairfield County Football League. Website: newcanaanyouthfootball.org.

The New Canaan Flag Football League has divisions for boys and girls in grades 2-9. Website: nc .info.

The New Canaan Lacrosse Association offers spring programs for boys and girls in grades K-8. The House League is new for 2023, offering a combination of fundamentals, rules, practices, and scrimmages. Website: nclax.org.

The New Canaan Basketball Association offers instruction and league play to aspiring hoopsters. Travel teams, open to boys and girls grades 5-8, compete against squads from all over Fairfield County. Instructional clinics are available as well. Website: ncbahoops.org

The New Canaan Winter Club (604 Frogtown Road) is home to many local ice hockey teams and figure skater programs for youth as well as adults. Phone: 203-966-4280. Website: ncwinterclub.com

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Children & Teens!

New Canaan Youth Field Hockey offers a 10-week program in the fall for third through eighth graders, who compete against players from all over Fairfield County.

Website: newcanaanyouthfieldhockey.com

New Canaan Youth Wrestling offers clinics, drills, and live wrestling opportunities at the elementary and middle school levels. There are regular practices and tournaments. Those interested in continuing the sport in high school should contact Bobby Rushton at robert.rushton@ncps-k12.org.

Website: newcanaanwrestling.org

Rowing Clubs

New Canaan Crew is a co-ed club sport at the high school. Website: newcanaancrew.com

The Norwalk River Rowing Association (1 Moody’s Lane, Norwalk) offers learn-to-row lessons, a non-competitive summer camp program for middle and high school students, and a competitive team at the high-school level, among other programs. Phone: 203-866-0080. Website: norwalkriverrowing.org

The Maritime Rowing Club (3 Jennings Place, Norwalk) has recreational and competitive programs for youth of all abilities. Phone: 203-854-5492. Website: maritimerowing.com

Special Needs Recreation

The New Canaan YMCA offers a Special Cares Support camp program as well as progressive swimming and water therapy programs. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org/y-special-needs

Day Camps

The New Canaan Recreation Department offers two summer camps: Waveny Day Camp for ages 7-12, and Camp Kidsville for ages 5 and 6. Phone: 203-594-3600. Website: newcanaan.info/departments/recreation/special_events

The New Canaan Nature Center’s summer camp serves children age 3-13 with a variety of nature-themed programs on the center’s 40-acre campus. There are half-day and full-day sessions, plus an Adventure Camp with a weekly overnight camping trip. Teens ages 14-17 can participate as naturalists-in-training. Phone: 203-966-9577. Website: newcanaannature.org

The New Canaan YMCA offers several summer day camps: Camp Mini for children age 3-5; Camp Y-Ki, a traditional outdoor camp for grades 1-6; and camp YSN for children with special needs. There are also summer programs for synchronized swimming, and counselors- and leaders-in-training. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org/ summer-camp

New Canaan Mounted Troop (22 Carter St.) is a nonprofit youth development and therapeutic equestrian center. It offers one-week summer camp programs for children age 7-17 and other distinct programs. Phone: 203-966-0634. Website: newcanaanmountedtroop.org

Bobby Valentine’s Sports Academy offers baseball, softball, soccer, and lacrosse clinics for all ages throughout the year. Phone: 203-968-2872. Website: bvacademy.com.

Toddlertime Nursery School (Congregational Church, 23 Park St.) has camp sessions for children age 18 months through 6 years. Phone: 203-972-3111. Website: toddlertimens.org/ programs/summer-camp.

The Performing Arts Conservatory of New Canaan offers musical theater camps and workshops for children and teens during the summer. Phone: 203-966-6177. Website: performingartsconservatory.com.

The Studio for Performing Arts offers one-week to 10-day acting, voice, and dance camps, with some culminating in a musical production. Phone: 203-966-7056. Website: thestudioperformingarts.com/summer-camps.

Camp Playland (802 Ponus Ridge Road) offers a fun-filled, instructional summer for boys and girls age 3-14 on its 18-acre campus. Transportation is provided. Phone: 203-966-2937. Website: campplaylandofnewcanaan.com.

Dance Programs

Several dance programs are available for local youth at the following locations:

■ New England Academy of Dance, 231 Main St., 203-972-3265, neadance.com

■ New Canaan Dance Academy, 15 Forest St., 203-972-9174, ncdacademy.com

■ The Performing Arts Conservatory of New Canaan, 70 Pine St., 203-966-6177, performingartsconservatory.com

■ The Studio for Performing Arts, 26 Forest St., 203-966-7056, thestudioperformingarts.com

Scouting Programs

The Boy Scouts of America provide youth age 7-18 with fun, outdoor adventures while teaching positive values, teamwork, citizenship, and leadership skills.

New Canaan is home to the following Boy Scout groups:

■ Pack 7, 203-893-1280, ncpack7.com

■ Pack 45, 203-979-3023, newcanaan45.mypack.us

■ Pack 70, 347-610-6097, troopwebhost.org/Troop70NewCanaan

■ Troop 31, 917-412-4080, troop31newcanaan.com

■ Troop 45, 646-331-6719, newcanaan45.mytroop.us

■ Troop 70, 646-221-2002, troop70newcanaan.com

Website: newcanaanscouts.com

Programs for Girl Scouts are offered for girls in grades K-12, including Daisies, Brownies Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors. Programs promote compassion, courage, confidence, character, leadership, entrepreneurship, and active citizenship. Activities include community service, camping, and earning badges, awards, and journeys. To join a troop near you, visit gsofct.org or email girlscoutsnc@gmail.com

Arts&Culture!

New Canaan is home to a great number of arts opportunities, from singing groups to the Silvermine Arts Center and museums, to theatrical offerings at the Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center.

Theatrical Offerings

The Town Players of New Canaan perform at the Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center in Waveny Park (679 South Ave.). All of the community theater shows are cast by open auditions. The Town Players produce four to five Main Stage shows each year, as well as Stage II readings, special events, playwriting workshops, and adult and children’s educational programs throughout the year. The Town Players began in 1946 and moved to its current location in 1983. Email: info@tpnc.org. Website: tpnc.org.

The Summer Theatre of New Canaan (STONC) offers professionally produced summer theater featuring a cast of New Canaan residents from high school and up, as well as professional actors. Design, crew, and intern job and volunteer opportunities are available. Phone: 203-966-4634.

Website: stonc.org.

Musical Offerings

The Treetops Chamber Music Society offers concerts featuring elite chamber music groups from around the world. Website: treetopscms.org

The Carriage Barn Arts Center offers a concert series of contemporary folk and acoustic music. Phone: 203-5943638. Website: carriagebarn.org

The New Canaan Recreation Department co-sponsors open-air music concerts on the lawn and patio behind Waveny House (677 South Ave.) during the summers. The concerts feature a variety of musical groups from the Fairfield County area. All concerts are open to New Canaan residents and their guests free of charge. Concerts start at 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday evening beginning in June. Concertgoers are welcome to bring a cold picnic supper to the park and enjoy the music. Phone: 203-594-3610.

The New Canaan Town Band is composed of around 30 local musicians who provide music for the town’s annual Memorial Day parade, Fourth of July celebration at Waveny Park, Christmas Carol Sing at God’s Acre, other special occasions, and local outdoor summer concerts. It was formed in 1831, making it the second oldest community band in the United States. Anyone with band experience is welcome to join. Facebook: New Canaan Town Band.

Carriage Barn Arts Center

The Carriage Barn Arts Center (681 South Ave.) is the home of the New Canaan Society for the Arts, a nonprofit that promotes the visual and performing arts through exhibits, performances, education, cultural experiences, and special events. Membership is open to anyone with interest in the arts. The arts center and gallery is located in Waveny Park

and holds several exhibits throughout the year, including annual juried photography and contemporary art exhibits, an open member show, and community exhibits. Workshops, classes, and lectures are offered for all ages. The Carriage Barn is also a venue for concerts and can be rented for events. Artwork is for sale and exhibit gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Admission is free with a suggested donation. Phone: 203-594-3638. Website: carriagebarn.org.

Other Galleries

The Silvermine Arts Center (1037 Silvermine Road) promotes art through exhibitions, classes, and special events. Art instruction is offered to young people and adults in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography. Summer art camps are also offered. Membership is available to artists who are also expected to volunteer their time. Phone: 203-966-9700. Website: silvermineart.org

Heather Gaudio Fine Art (66 Elm St.) focuses on emerging and established artists, offering paintings, works on paper, photography, and sculpture. The gallery presents a handful of curated exhibitions each year, and also hosts site-specific installations. Phone: 203-801-9590. Website: heathergaudiofineart.com

Local Museums

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society (13 Oenoke Ridge) has preserved one of the most important collections of “relics and curiosities” in the northeast. Founded in 1889, the society features the Town House, where its offices are located, as well as the Costume Museum, Cody Drug Store, exhibition room, library, and archival wing.

The Costume Museum features a presentation of 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century clothing and accessories in changing exhibitions. The Cody Drug Store is a shop interior with original 1845 fixtures, store merchandise, and bottles.

The Museum’s library, in the rear of the Town House, contains more than 4,000 volumes on genealogy and area history, plus manuscripts, deeds, documents, and local newspapers.

Also on the grounds is the 1764 Hanford-Silliman House, a historic house museum; sculptor John Rogers’ studio and museum, built in 1878; Rock School, a one-room schoolhouse from 1799; a tool museum; and a print shop with an Acorn Press.

Visiting hours are Tuesday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and weekends and evenings by appointment. Phone: 203-966-1776. Website: nchistory.org

The Glass House, designed by Philip Johnson, is located on a 49-acre campus off Ponus Ridge. Tours begin at the Visitor Center (199 Elm St.) and include a half-mile walking tour with access to the house, painting and sculpture galleries, and the Da Monsta. There’s also an exhibition and museum shop. Phone: 203-594-9884. Website: theglasshouse.org

Clubs & Organizations!

The mission of the Waveny Park Conservancy, founded in 2015, is to ensure the town’s “crown jewel” thrives in perpetuity, and continues to inspire and serve the people of New Canaan. The conservancy works in partnership with the town to restore, enhance, and preserve the Waveny’s parklands. Such projects include trail improvements, the restoration of Anderson Pond, the transformation of Jeniam Meadow, the enhancement of the formal gardens, and forest management. The Waveny Park tour on the Otocast app provides visitors with insight into the history and design of the park and its buildings. Conservancy projects are made possible by the continuing support of private donors.

The New Canaan Garden Club encourages a passion for gardening among its members and the community at large, conservation, and promotes civic planning and beautification.

Website: ncgardenclub.org

The New Canaan Beautification League is a nonprofit community service and educational organization founded in 1939 with the goal of beautifying the community and aiding members in increasing their knowledge of gardening, conservation, and horticulture. Membership is open to novices as well as experts. Monthly lectures or workshops are typically held from October to June and are open to the public unless otherwise noted. Website: newcanaanbeautification.org

The New Canaan Community Foundation (111 Cherry St.) has made significant contributions to local nonprofit organizations and scholarships since its founding in 1977. The foundation partners with donors and provides ways for residents to make charitable impacts by supporting causes that are important to them and the community.

Donors make contributions directly to funds managed by the foundation. Board members and volunteers review the grant requests each year and make grant allocations to address the critical needs of the community and support health and human service programs. Phone: 203-966-0231.

Website: newcanaancf.org

New Canaan CARES (838 Weed St.) is an independent, nonprofit community organization whose purpose is to advance the health and well-being of youth and families. CARES provides responsive educational programs that support and strengthen parenting skills, positive youth development, and healthy lifestyles free of charge. Phone: 203-966-7862. Website: newcanaancares.org.

The Young Women’s League of New Canaan is a service-based social organization where women come together to enhance their community through fundraising and volunteering. Since 2000, it has distributed many grants and worked with hundreds of local charities and donated thousands of volunteer hours to community service. Members enjoy educational speakers and social events. Website: ywlnewcanaan.org.

The Grace Farms Foundation (365 Lukes Wood Road) is a nonprofit that provides a place for people to experience nature, encounter the arts, pursue justice, foster community,

and explore faith. Its goal is to provide a welcoming place where individuals, nonprofits, and government entities can collaborate for the common good. Phone: 203-920-1702. Website: gracefarms.org

The Rotary Club of New Canaan provides grants to organizations specializing in health and wellness, education, and literacy in New Canaan and neighboring communities. It sponsors an annual Lobsterfest in September and meets every Thursday at 12:15 p.m. To confirm the exact location of a given meeting, email info@newcanaanrotary.org. Website: newcanaanrotary.org.

Harmony Lodge No. 67 was formed in 1825 as a charitable organization. Any person interested in learning about Freemasonry is welcome to attend its dinners held the first and third Tuesday of each month, except in July and August. Email: jfruth4@gmail.com. Website: lodgelocator.com/ harmony-67.

The Exchange Club of New Canaan works on service projects to better the community. Its members come from various professional backgrounds and also include retirees. A primary focus of the club is the prevention of child abuse. Email: membership@newcanaanexchangeclub.com. Website: newcanaanexchangeclub.com.

The New Canaan Lions Club supports many local charities through donations and volunteerism. The club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at South End Restaurant (36 Pine St.) Website: e-clubhouse.org/sites/ new_canaan

The Kiwanis Club of New Canaan is part of an international organization that works to improve the world, one child and one community at a time. Members support service projects, especially those impacting youth. The club typically sponsors an annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner & Social. Facebook: facebook.com/pg/KiwanisClubofNC

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 653 is the town’s oldest veterans’ organization. It organizes the town’s annual Memorial Day parade, places flags at every veterans’ gravesite on Memorial Day, as well as a Christmas wreath in December. Phone: 203-962-1302. Email: ncvfwpost653@gmail.com.

American Legion Post 30 can be reached at P.O. Box 263, New Canaan, CT 06840. Website: ctlegion.org.

The New Canaan Men’s Club of Connecticut welcomes men 55 and older who reside or own property in town. It was founded in 1977 and became a nonprofit in 2019. Weekly meetings occur via Zoom due to the pandemic and feature local, state, and nationally-known speakers. Website: newcanaanmensclub.org.

The New Canaan League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that sponsors voter education publications and programs so residents can better understand their town government and public policy issues. The league works to build citizen participation in the democratic process and studies community issues in an unbiased manner. Website: lwvnewcanaan.org

Clubs & Organizations!

The New Canaan Preservation Alliance Inc. was formed in 2007 in response to rising concerns over the rapid disappearance of the town's historic environments. Its mission is to promote sensitive growth through the identification, evaluation, and protection of the town’s irreplaceable characteristics. Phone: 203-442-4005. Website: newcanaanpreservationalliance.org .

The American Red Cross of Connecticut – Darien Office (39 Leroy Ave., Darien) includes New Canaan and other area towns. Beginning in 2009, the New Canaan chapter became part of the statewide organization, serving 168 municipalities statewide. The Red Cross offers emergency and disaster assistance, blood drives, blood pressure screenings, CPR and first aid courses, transportation programs, communication services with the armed forces, and volunteer opportunities. Phone: 877-287-3327. Website: redcross.org/local/connecticut

Donation Opportunities

The New Canaan Food Pantry at St. Mark's Episcopal Church (111 Oenoke Ridge) provides non-perishable items to qualified individuals and families living in town. The pantry is open every other Tuesday with a one-hour morning and evening distribution time. Adult volunteers are needed during hours of operation to sort, stock, and bag groceries. The pantry accepts food donations daily. Non-perishable and non-expired food can be place on any table inside the pantry. Monetary donations can be mailed to Human Services (77 Main St.). Please make checks payable to the New Canaan Food Pantry. If you are a resident in need of food, call 203-594-3076.

The New Canaan Thrift Shop (2 Locust St.) accepts gently-used articles of clothing, accessories, jewelry, books, sporting goods, small appliances, housewares, China, silver, paintings, crockery, toys, games, and small home furnishings. Donations should be boxed or bagged. All proceeds benefit Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County. The thrift shop is open Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Phone: 203-966-2361.

The First Presbyterian Church of New Canaan (178 Oenoke Ridge) regularly sponsors donation drives for Goodwill Industries of Western Connecticut. A donation truck comes to the parking lot of the church monthly from April to December.

Help for Newcomers

New Neighbors is a complimentary welcome service for new residents and has been around since 1967. New Neighbors hosts welcome coffees every month, presents new residents with information about the town and the local area to help newcomers with their transition, and connects them with other new residents. If you’re unable to attend a welcome coffee, personal welcome visits are also offered. Every attendee receives a welcome package that includes lots of helpful information as well as offers/gifts from local vendors. Contact: Samantha Loomis; 914-263-0730 or samantha. loomis46@gmail.com. Website: www.newneighborsct.com

The Town Greeter is a personalized welcome service that welcomes newcomers to town with a complimentary gift bag filled with special offers, gift certificates, gifts from local merchants, and useful community information. Phone: 203-952-4554. Email: stephanieradman@aol.com. Website: thetowngreeter.com.

Since 1957, the Newcomers Club of New Canaan has helped new residents connect with each other and get involved in the community. It plans a wide range of offerings throughout the year, including fun social events and children's activities. Website: newcanaannewcomers.com

Volunteer Opportunities

If you’d like guidance about what organizations might be a good fit for your skills and interests, contact the New Canaan Community Foundation. It matches people who care with causes that matter. Phone: 203-966-0231. Website: newcanaancf.org

United Way of Western Connecticut’s Volunteer Center connects people willing to volunteer with organizations that need them. Phone: 203-883-6034. Website: uwwesternct. org/get-involved-volunteers

Schools!

The New Canaan Public Schools Central Office (39 Locust Ave.) is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: 203594-4000. Fax 203-594-4035. Website: ncps-k12.org

Superintendent Bryan Luizzi earned his doctorate degree in education from Columbia University and has been an adjunct professor at UConn and Central Connecticut State University. Phone: 203-594-4018. Email: bryan.luizzi@ ncps-k12.org

The Board of Education oversees and maintains the public schools. It prepares and proposes the annual district-wide budget; approves all public education expenditures; designates the schools to be attended by students; provides transportation for children; studies the need for school facilities; operates and maintains all buildings, lands, apparatus, and other property used for school purposes; and prescribes the rules for the manage -

Schools!

ment, studies, classification, and discipline of the schools. The board develops, adopts, and implements written policies concerning homework, attendance, promotion, and retention; provides required data to the state Department of Education; adopts and files required policy statements with the state; and negotiates contracts with employees’ bargaining representatives.

Nine people are elected to serve four-year terms on the board. The current members are:

Bob Naughton

Penny Rashin

school year calendar

2023–2024

First Day of School

Labor Day ...........................................

Yom Kippur SEP 25

Election Day/

Professional Learning (PL) for staff NOV 7

Brendan Hayes

Julie Toal

The board typically meets the first and third Monday of the month in the Wagner Room of New Canaan High School (11 Farm Road) starting at 7 p.m. unless otherwise posted. Time is set aside at the beginning and end of each meeting for public comment; speakers are allotted two minutes each. A meeting schedule is available at the superintendent’s office as well as the district’s website. Meeting recordings are also posted on the district’s website.

School Calendar & Weather Delays

The remaining holiday for the 2022–23 school year is Memorial Day, May 30. The last day of school will be June 15, and it will be a half-day for students. Full school-year calendars are posted at ncps-k12.org.

Parents can sign up at school to receive special advisory notices directly. For cancellations or delays, visit ncps-k12. org, newcanaan.info, or ncadvertiser.com. Cancellations are also announced by local television and radio stations.

Registering a Child for School

Children are required to attend school once they turn 5 years old (by Dec. 31 of the school year). Parents who choose to hold back a child from attending school when that child is 5 (or even 6) will need to personally appear at the school to sign an option form exercising their right not to have their child attend school. At that time a school official will provide the parent with information on the educational opportunities available within the district.

Children may be registered at the school they will attend at any time. Pre-registration can be done online. Kindergarten registration should be completed by March 1 for youngsters attending school that fall. Orientation sessions are held for parents of incoming kindergartners. Parents must present proof of New Canaan residency, the child’s birth certificate, and current health and immunization information for each child.

Thanksgiving Vacation (half-day Wednesday) NOV 22 – 24

Holiday Break

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day JAN 16 – 5

PL for Staff .........................................

Presidents Day/Winter Recess

Good Friday

Spring Break

Memorial Day ....................................

19 – 23

29

15 – 19

27

Last Day of School (tentative) JUN 12

Public Schools

East Elementary School (K-4)

54 Little Brook Road; Phone: 203-594-4200

Instructional hours: 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.

Kris Woleck, Principal

South Elementary School (K-4)

8 Farm Road; Phone: 203-594-4300

Instructional hours: 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.

Matt Kascak, Principal

Website: ncps-k12.org/o/ses

West Elementary School (K-4)

769 Ponus Ridge; Phone: 203-594-4400

Instructional hours: 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.

Janet Murphy, Principal

Website: ncps-k12.org/o/wes

Saxe Middle School (5-8)

468 South Ave.; Phone: 203-594-4500

Instructional hours:

9:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. (5-6); 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (7-8)

David Gusitsch, Principal

Website: ncps-k12.org/o/sms

Dan Bennett CHAIR

Hugo Alves

Phil Hogan

Katrina Parkhill VICE CHAIR

Erica Schwedel SECRETARY

Schools!

New Canaan High School (9-12)

11 Farm Road; Phone: 203-594-4600

Instructional hours: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

William Egan, Principal Website: ncps-k12.org/o/nchs

District Statistics

The public schools’ enrollment for the 2022-23 school year totaled 4,155, according to the New Canaan Advertiser. There were 1,524 grade-school students enrolled, with 542 at East School, 501 at South School and 481 at West School. Saxe Middle School had 1,318 students enrolled, and New Canaan High School had 1,294 students enrolled.

Niche.com ranks New Canaan Public Schools as among the best in Connecticut for students and teachers. The survey covers 116 districts in the state, roughly 11,000 districts nationwide, and uses data from the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, and student and parent surveys.

Among the results were:

■ No. 2, Best School District in Connecticut: New Canaan

■ No. 2, Best Places to Teach in Connecticut: New Canaan Public Schools

■ No. 2, District with the Best Teachers in Connecticut: New Canaan

The survey also gave the New Canaan Public Schools the following grades:

■ ACADEMICS A+

■ DIVERSITY C

■ TEACHERS A+

■ COLLEGE PREP A+

■ CLUBS/ACTIVITIES A+

Standardized Testing

New Canaan students consistently have among the highest standardized test scores in the state. The district is rated extremely high in assessments when compared to other school districts.

New Canaan students take a series of standardized tests based on state requirements. The tests of yesteryear have been replaced by the Smarter Balanced assessments for grades 3-8, and the Connecticut SAT School Day for grade 11. Both test students in English Language Arts and mathematics. Smarter Balanced: In 2021, 85.5 percent of students met or exceeded achievement level in English Language Arts; and 82.2 percent did the same in math.

CT SAT: In 2022, The New Canaan Advertiser reported that district SAT scores fell to below 600 on average, with 587 in reading and 581 in math. The district ranked sixth in the state in evidenced-based reading and writing and fourth in math, which exceeded the state average of 501 in reading and 486 in math.

Students in grades 5, 8, and 11 take the Next Generation Science Standards test. The Connecticut Physical Fitness Assessment and National Assessment of Educational Progress also are given to students in select grades.

For comparison purposes, the state Department of Education groups similar school systems together in District Reference Groups (DRG) based on socio-economic, need, and enrollment factors. New Canaan is part of DRG-A with Darien, Easton-Redding-Region 9, Ridgefield, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. These are generally the highest performing school districts in the state.

High School Sports

More than 70 percent of New Canaan High School students participate in the school’s athletic program. The high school offers more than 30 sports — including club teams — over the course of the academic year; many of these teams have won statewide championships.

Fall: Boys’ football, soccer, and cross country. Girls’ field hockey, soccer, cross country, swimming and diving, volleyball, and cheerleading (club).

Winter: Boys’ basketball, wrestling, ice hockey, indoor track, swimming and diving, skiing (club), and squash (club). Girls’ basketball, gymnastics, ice hockey, indoor track, skiing (club), and squash (club).

Spring: Boys’ baseball, track, golf, tennis, lacrosse, volleyball, and crew (club). Girls’ softball, track, golf, tennis, lacrosse, and crew (club).

NCHS teams are known as the Rams.

High School Extracurricular Activities

New Canaan High School hosts more than 75 different clubs and organizations for students to enjoy, including interscholastic teams, the arts, yearbook, the school newspaper, student government, service organizations, and groups that focus on current events and social causes.

NCHS’s Theatre Club has won awards from the Stage Directions High School Theatre Honors Program, the Connecticut Drama Association, and the Musical Theater Competition of America.

Specialized School Programs

Before- and after-school programs are offered at all three elementary schools. Saxe offers Middle School after-school programs through a coalition of town, school, and private agencies.

The New Canaan YMCA (564 South Ave.) offers after-school programs with transportation for children in grades K-6. Phone: 203-966-4528. Website: newcanaanymca.org

The Day Care Center of New Canaan (156 South Ave.) offers an after-school program for children in grades K-6. Phone: 203-966-9247. Website: daycarecenternc.org

Schools!

The Challenge Program engages gifted students at the elementary and middle school levels. It is structured to stimulate and develop the natural intellectual potential of gifted children, and offers a variety of opportunities for expression within a classroom environment.

The high school offers a variety of honors and Advanced Placement courses and paths of independent study for gifted and/or high-achieving students.

A Better Chance (ABC) New Canaan (64 Locust Ave.) provides transformative academic opportunities to talented young men of color, supports them in becoming well-rounded and confident leaders, and prepares them for success in college and in life. Phone: 203-912-7243. Website: abchouseofnc.org

Special Education

New Canaan Public Schools’ special education program services children and young adults with a variety of learning differences. The district provides comprehensive programming for these students through high school, as well as services for ages 18-21 in certain situations. Website: ncps-k12.org/page/special-education

If your child has not started school and you suspect he or she may have a disability, contact Special Education Administrator (PreK/Elementary) Robert Rousseau at 203-594-4030. If your child is already of school age, contact Special Education Administrator (Saxe) Vanessa Visners at 203-594-4570 or Special Education Administrator (NCHS) Kevin Ryan at 203-594-4650.

The Special Education Network of New Canaan, or SPED*NET, is an independent, nonprofit group of parents, professionals, and students that work to educate the public about special education and disability-related issues. Website: spednet.org.

Birth to Three is a state program that helps families meet the developmental and health-related needs of their infants and toddlers who have delays or disabilities. Phone: 800505-7000. Website: birth23.org.

District Transportation Policy

It is the policy of the district to provide transportation to students in grades K-4 who live a half-mile or more from school; in grades 5– 6 who live at least two-thirds of a mile or more from school; and in grades 7– 12 who live one mile or more from school. The full policy is on the district’s website.

Summer Classes

New Canaan Summer Enrichment offers camps for a variety of ages specializing in language arts, science and math, fine arts, and more. It also includes an academic make-up program for high school students to earn credits over the summer. Registration for summer 2023 opened on March 3. Phone: 203-594-4669. Email: summer.enrichment@ ncps-k12.org. Website: ncps-k12.org/o/ncps/page/ summer-enrichment

Health!

It is the mission of the New Canaan Health Department (77 Main St.) to control preventable diseases through education, inspections, and monitoring by enforcing federal/state/ local codes, laws, and regulations for maintaining and promoting public health.

The department issues permits for septic systems and private water supplies, and maintains files on those systems. It works with the Human Services Department on housing issues, and with the animal control officer on animals suspected of carrying certain diseases. The department also inspects food service establishments, day care centers, and sewage pumps, and offers information on blood lead levels in children, mosquito- and tick-borne diseases, flu clinics, mammograms, and smoking cessation.

The department’s hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Jen Eielson is the director and can be reached at 203-594-3019 or via email at jen.eielson@newcanaanct.gov

Unwanted Medications

Secure medication drop boxes are located in the lobby of the New Canaan Police Department (174 South Ave.) and accessible anytime the department is open. Individuals can drop off unwanted medications into a box, and they will be safely and securely destroyed — no questions asked. Accepted: over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, medication samples, medications for household pets, and medicated lotions or ointments. Not accepted: needles or other sharp objects, hazardous waste, thermometers, and personal care products (shampoo, etc.).

Arranging for Home Care

Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County (22 Danbury Road, Wilton) has served the community for more than 100 years. The nonprofit provides professional nursing and support services, senior care management, physical rehabilitation, health education, community wellness programs, and

Health!

compassionate hospice care for adults and children in the heart of Fairfield County. Its team of skilled nurses, home health aides, physical, occupational, and speech therapists, shoppers, dietitians, companions, peer counselors, homemakers, medical social workers, pre-hospice professionals, case managers, and caregivers serve patients and their families. Phone: 203-762-8958. Website: visitingnurse.net.

Interim HealthCare of Stamford and Fairfield is a home care, hospice, and medical staffing company. It provides home health, senior care, hospice, palliative care, pediatric care, and health care staffing services. Website: interimhealthcare.com.

Aiding Seniors at Home

Staying Put in New Canaan helps people over 50 live confidently at home and stay engaged in the community by providing practical services and social connections. The nonprofit also helps arrange home health care services and assisted living at home. Phone: 203-966-7762. Website: stayingputnc.org

Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County (22 Danbury Road, Wilton) provides assisted living at home for those who want help maintaining their independence. Services include help with cleaning, dressing, shopping, bathing, and companionship. Phone: 800-898-4663. Website: visitingnurse.net

Family & Children’s Agency (9 Mott Ave., Norwalk) offers homemakers as well as home chore services. Phone: 203-855-8765. Website: familyandchildrensagency.org

Waveny LifeCare Network (3 Farm Road) provides a compassionate, world-class continuum of senior care services. The nonprofit offers independent, assisted, and memory/dementia care living, skilled nursing programs, rehabilitation programs, comprehensive home health care services, and community-based services to meet the varied needs and preferences of older adults and their families. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

The Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program offers relief to stressed caregivers by providing information, support, care plan development, and services for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementias. Eligible families may apply for daytime or overnight respite care services. Phone: 800-994-9422.

Local Pharmacies

New Canaan Pharmacy (44 East Ave.) is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 203-966-4575. Website: newcanaanpharmacy.com

CVS Pharmacy (94 Park St.) is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Phone: 203-966-6758.

Walgreens Pharmacy (36 Pine St.) is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Phone: 203-801-0121.

Hospice Services

Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County (22 Danbury Road, Wilton) helps individuals and their families cope with terminal illnesses in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. Services include: managing pain and symptoms to provide comfort; helping with personal care (bathing, dressing, meal preparation); arranging for medical equipment and nutritional guidance; respite support for caregivers; counseling and companionship; and spiritual guidance and grief support services. Phone: 203-762-8958 Website: visitingnurse.net

Waveny Care Center (3 Farm Road) also offers hospice care. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

Blood Drives & CPR Instruction

New Canaan EMS typically offer free Hands-Only CPR training to residents, businesses, schools, community organizations, and church groups. Training classes are not being offered at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For general information about Hands-Only CPR, contact NCEMS. Phone: 203-594-3535. Website: newcanaanems.org

The EMS Institute of Fairfield County (205 Main Ave., Norwalk) offers a variety of courses in CPR and first aid training for the public and health care professionals. Phone: 203-762-6163. Website: emsinsfc.com

The American Red Cross trains hundreds of people in CPR and first aid each year and also organizes local blood drives. Phone: 877-287-3327. Website: ctredcross.org

Counseling Services

The New Canaan Department of Human Services offers counseling and crisis intervention for individuals and families. Phone: 203-594-3076.

New Canaan Youth Services offers free counseling and crisis intervention for young people and families. The department also offers short-term counseling to parents. Phone: 203-594-3076.

Infoline is Connecticut's statewide information referral and crisis intervention service. Callers can get help 24 hours a day. Professional case workers are backed by community representatives and an extensive human services database. These experts provide up-to-date information on agencies and programs, make referrals to appropriate community resources, and intervene in crises, including suicide prevention. Phone: 211. Website: 211ct.org

The Connecticut Self-Help Network was organized as a volunteer collaboration among mental health and health service providers and self-helpers. The primary goal of the network is to promote and coordinate self-help activities across the state.

Its self-help directory lists more than 1,450 local and statewide groups dealing with abuse, addictions, bereavement, disabilities, health, mental health, parenting, and other stressful life situations. It also has contacts for more than 1,000 national networks.

Health!

The network can connect individuals to existing groups or help them start new groups where needed. Phone: 203-7897645. Website: theconsultationcenter.org.

Substance Abuse Assistance

Silver Hill Hospital (208 Valley Road) has extensive programs for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. Phone: 866-542-4455. Website: silverhillhospital.org/ what-we-treat.

Family Centers in Greenwich (203-717-1760/familycenters. org) and Family & Children’s Agency in Norwalk (203-8558765/familyandchildrensagency.org) offer substance abuse counseling as well.

A number of local Alcoholics Anonymous meetings take place in person and online throughout the week. Many meet in churches, including the Congregational Church, St. Mark’s Church, First Presbyterian Church, St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, and New Canaan United Methodist Church. Visit ct-aa.org for a full list of meeting locations, days, and times.

Liberation Programs provides treatment and prevention services for substance use and mental health disorders with a goal of helping individuals and families overcome addiction in order to restore their lives and ultimately strengthen our communities. It offers inpatient programs, outpatient and intensive outpatients services, education and prevention efforts, harm reduction services, mobile outreach, and supportive housing. Phone: 855-542-7764. Website: liberationprograms.org/contact.

Specialized Programs & Support Groups

Silver Hill Hospital (208 Valley Road) has an adult outpatient department with three programs: dual diagnosis/ chemical dependency; dialectical behavior therapy; and women’s trauma and addiction. Phone: 866-542-4455.

Website: silverhillhospital.org/what-we-treat

The Center for Hope (590 Boston Post Road, Darien) provides comprehensive services for adults and children living with an illness, grieving a loss, or coping with a lifealtering circumstance. All counseling, support, and education services are facilitated by specially-trained professionals in an atmosphere of hope and renewal. Services include individual, group, and family counseling, support groups, and community education programs. Phone: 203-655-4693.

Website: familycenters.org/Center-for-HOPE

Friends of Autistic People (974 North St., Greenwich) advocates appropriate services for the entire spectrum of an autistic adult’s life. It offers parent support groups, education, and advocacy. Phone: 203-661-8510. Website: autisticadults.com

Pegasus Therapeutic Riding (310 Peach Lake Road, Brewster, N.Y.) offers programs at horse farms throughout Fairfield County, including the New Canaan Mounted Troop. Pegasus brings the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding

to handicapped people of all ages. Phone: 845-669-8235.

Website: pegasustr.org

Kids in Crisis (1 Salem St., Cos Cob) offers crisis counseling, intervention, and emergency shelter for children up to age 17. Phone: 203-622-6556. Website: kidsincrisis.org.

Mental Health Care Services

The New Canaan Community Foundation launched Let’s Talk About It to provide the public with information concerning mental, behavioral, and emotional health, and to be a resource for the community to deal with the challenges and emotions that can leave people feeling isolated, tired, or confused. The group’s mission is to demystify the language around emotional health by removing stigmas and provide non-judgmental, data-driven assistance and information, enabling all to have a deeper understanding of what mental, behavioral, and emotional health and intelligence looks like.

Website: letstalkaboutitnc.org

Stamford Health’s Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Services focuses on patient wellness and recovery, offering crisis counseling, inpatient services, outpatient and community options, as well as free support groups through NAMI Southwest CT. Phone: 877-233-9355.

Laurel House (1616 Washington Blvd., Stamford) provides mental health resources to people coping with mental illness across numerous communities in and around Connecticut. Phone: 203-324-1816. Website: laurelhouse.net/about/ about-us

Other sources of help include Silver Hill Hospital (866542-4455) and Hall Brooke Behavioral Health Center in Westport (203-227-1251).

Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center (1111 Summer St., Stamford) offers crisis intervention, counseling, advocacy, and education to help people break free from emotional, physical, or sexually abusive situations. Phone: 203-853-0418. Website: dvccct.org

The mission of the Rowan Center (1111 Summer St., Stamford) is to counsel victims and survivors as they process their experiences of sexual violence from the past, advocate for them as they navigate the circumstances of the present, and educate the communities it serves to prevent sexual violence in the future. Phone: 203-348-9346. Website: therowancenter.org

The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut coordinates the Child Advocacy Center, a neutral, child-friendly, environment in which youth who have experienced physical abuse, sexual abuse, and/or neglect are connected with mental health, advocacy, and medical services. Phone: 203-517-3315. Website: childguidancect.org

For the National Domestic Violence Hotline, call 800799-7233.

Seniors!

New Canaan offers numerous services and social programs for local seniors.

The Senior Center is located in the Lapham Community Center, which sits in a beautiful corner of Waveny Park (677 South Ave.). The Senior Center offers educational, recreational, exercise, and yoga classes, as well as day trips, special interest groups, films, lectures, and social activities for older residents. Phone: 203-594-3620.

Another group available for seniors is the Men’s Club of New Canaan. It offers a variety of activities to men 55 and older, including golf outings, organized hikes and walks, day trips, and bridge. Weekly meetings occur via Zoom due to the pandemic and feature local, state, and nationally-known speakers. Website: newcanaanmensclub.org

The New Canaan Department of Human Services helps residents obtain appropriate social services and resources. Marcella Rand is the town’s adult and senior services coordinator. She works closely with the Health and Human Services Commission, and offers assistance and resources for adult and senior residents. Phone: 203-594-3083. Email: marcella.rand@newcanaanct.gov.

Independent & Assisted Living Facilities

Waveny LifeCare Network (WLCN) is a nonprofit with a 45-year legacy of providing a comprehensive continuum of health care to serve the evolving needs of older adults. Waveny offers enhanced Independent Living at The Inn, Memory/Dementia Assisted Living at The Village, and skilled nursing, inpatient, and outpatient rehabilitation services at Waveny Care Center. It also includes the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, and an array of home- and community-based services through Waveny Home Healthcare. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Fairfield County (VNHFC) is a member of WLCN, thereby expanding the network’s comprehensive home health care offerings. It is a well-recognized and well-established home health and hospice care provider, and offers community-based services such as school nursing programs, public health nursing, and the New Canaan Thrift Shop. Phone: 203-762-8958. Website: visitingnurse.net

A complete list of senior housing within the region is available from the Southwestern CT Agency on Aging. Phone: 203-333-9288. Website: swcaa.org

The Senior Housing Assistance Fund (SHAF) is a no-interest loan program that assists low-income individuals. The loan may be used to pay for a security deposit, moving expenses, minor home repairs, or other necessary expenses that will enable the person to remain in their home safely or to move to safe, affordable housing. Phone: 203-333-9288. Website: swcaa.org

Services for the Elderly

Staying Put in New Canaan helps people over 50 live confidently at home and stay engaged in the community by providing practical services and social connections. The nonprofit also helps arrange home health care services and assisted living at home. Phone: 203-966-7762. Website: stayingputnc.org.

GetAbout New Canaan provides transportation for elderly and disabled individuals to and from activities, medical appointments, and other tasks within town and nearby communities. Services are available Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: 203-972-7433. Website: getaboutnc.org.

Meals on Wheels of New Canaan delivers nutritious meals five days a week to those who are unable to make meals for themselves. Meals are delivered by volunteers Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Phone: 203-5945318. Website: mowofnc.org

The New Canaan Department of Human Services offers counseling information, referral services, and assists with applications for ConnPACE (the state’s prescription medicine program), energy assistance programs, and Medicare insurance. The staff has information on a variety of senior resources and programs. Phone: 203-594-3076. Website: newcanaan.info/departments/human_services.

Jewish Family Service of Fairfield County in Stamford offers home companions and other services that enable seniors to remain safe, healthy, and independent in their own homes for as long as possible. Phone: 203-921-4161. Website: ctjfs.org

Fuel Assistance, Renters’ Rebate

For heating assistance, call the New Canaan Department of Human Services at 203-594-3076 and schedule an appointment. The state’s energy assistance program runs from October to March. You will be asked to provide proof of income, assets, age, and disability (if applicable). If you are over the income limit for the state program, the department will have you apply for the local program.

The department can also help you apply for the state’s renters’ rebate program for limited income seniors and disabled individuals. Additional statewide renters rebate information is available at 860-418-6377 or ct.gov/opm

Reporting Elder Abuse

In the event of a non-emergency, call Marcella Rand, the town’s adult and senior services coordinator, at 203-5943083. The state’s Protective Services for the Elderly will check for reports of neglect, abuse, exploitation, or abandonment. Phone: 888-385-4225. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

Religion!

Baptist Community Baptist Church

174 Cherry Street

Phone: 203-966-0711

Christian

Grace Community Church at Grace Farms, 365 Lukes Wood Road; Phone: 203-966-7600; Website: gracecommunity.info

Hope Church 240 Wolfpit Road, Wilton; Phone: 203-762-0706; Website: myhopect.org

Talmadge Hill Community Church

870 Hollow Tree Ridge Road, Darien; Phone: 203-966-92314; Website: talmadgehill.org

New England Fellowship 259 Smith Ridge Road; Phone: 203-450-4564;

Website: newenglandfellowship.org

Christian Science

First Church of Christ, Scientist

49 Park Street;

Phone: 203-966-0293; Website: christiansciencect.org/newcanaan

Congregational

The Congregational Church of New Canaan 23 Park Street

Phone: 203-966-2651

Website: godsacre.org

Episcopal

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

111 Oenoke Ridge

Phone: 203-966-4515; Website: stmarksnewcanaan.org

Greek Orthodox

Chruch of the Archangels

1527 Bedford Street, Stamford

Phone: 203-595-5902

Website: archangelsgoc.org

Jewish

Chabad of New Canaan

137 Putnam Road

Phone: 203-972-7708

Websites: chabadnewcanaan.org or newcanaanjewish.org

Congregation Beth El

109 East Avenue, Norwalk

Phone: 203-838-2710

Website: congbethel.org

Temple Sinai 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford; Phone: 203-322-1649;

Website: templesinaistamford.org

LDS

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

682 South Avenue

Phone: 203-966-5849

Lutheran

St. Michael’s Lutheran Church

5 Oenoke Ridge

Phone: 203-966-3913

Website: stmichaelslutheran.org

Methodist

United Methodist Church of New Canaan 165 South Avenue

Phone: 203-966-2666

Website: umcofnewcanaan.org

Pound Ridge Community Church

3 Pound Ridge Road, Pound Ridge, N.Y.; Phone: 914-764-9000; Website: poundridgecommunitychurch.org

Presbyterian

The First Presbyterian Church

178 Oenoke Ridge Road; Phone: 203-966-0002; Website: fpcnc.org

Quaker

The Religious Society of Friends

317 New Canaan Road, Wilton;

Phone: 203-762-5669; Website: quakercloud.org/cloud/wiltonquaker-meeting

Roman Catholic

St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Church

21 Cherry Street

Phone: 203-966-0020

Website: starcc.com

Unitarian

Unitarian Universalist Congregation

20 Forest Street, Stamford

Phone: 203-348-0708

Website: uustamford.org

Library!

The New Canaan Library (151 Main St.) has been the intellectual center of town since 1877. Its mission is to inspire lifelong learning through innovation and discovery. Visitors and members come through the doors and access the website in search of knowledge, exploration, and entertainment.

The new 42,000-square-foot library opened its doors on Feb. 14, 2023. Its design pays homage to mid-century modern architecture while maintaining warm and inviting spaces.

The library has vast print and digital collections that are consistently updated with the latest publications. It also offers scores of programs for all ages, from storytimes and workshops to author visits and lectures.

The collections include books, audio books, e-books, DVDs, e-audio books, streaming videos, magazines, and newspapers (both print and digital). The programming spans all areas of interest, ranging from technology classes, history, and science to music, art, and wellness classes.

The library’s Family Services team presents classes, events, and book groups for all ages, from babies through middle school, and has its own staff and collections. The teen librarian coordinates activities and educational events for young adults and tweens.

Other offerings include reader’s advisory and reference services, technology assistance, and an ever-expanding MakerLab. Free computer and scanner access is available, copying, printing, and faxing are available for a fee, and free, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.

All New Canaan residents, as well as those working or attending school in town, have access to a free library membership. Out-of-state residents may obtain a card for an annual fee. The library welcomes in-person applicants, but cards can also be applied for online. Proof of eligibility is required.

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. Phone: 203-594-5000. Website: newcanaanlibrary.org

New Canaan Library. Contributed Photo.

Emergency Services!

The New Canaan Police Department (174 South Ave.) is a nationally accredited law enforcement agency. It is one of 14 police departments in Connecticut recognized by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement agencies. The department employs 47 sworn officers and handles criminal investigations and accidents, patrols the streets of New Canaan, and offers a host of other services for residents. It is headed by Chief John DiFederico. Phone: 203594-3500. Website: newcanaanpolice.org.

Police provide fingerprinting to residents and individuals employed by businesses in town on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon by appointment only. Phone: 203-594-3503.

Residents can leave anonymous messages on the Tip Line (203-594-3544) about suspected crimes, or other information that would benefit the department. This line is not for emergency calls, crimes-in-progress, or other incidents demanding attention from an officer.

The department’s Child Identification Program provides parents with the information they’d need if their child was lost or abducted. The kits include the child’s personal information, a recent photograph, medical information, an ink strip and fingerprint chart, an area for a DNA sample, and an instruction guide for parents. Phone: (203) 594-3523.

Dialing 911 for Emergencies

Call 911 to report a fire, health or medical crisis, or police emergencies like a home intruder or other life-threatening situation. If in doubt about the severity of an emergency, call 911. The New Canaan Police Department answers all 911 calls. They will dispatch the police, ambulance, and fire department as needed. The state’s mobile 911 system enables dispatchers to track a cell-phone caller’s location anywhere in the state. People should not call 911 for road conditions or routine services such as reporting barking dogs. Direct routine police calls to 203-594-3500.

The state’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection in Middletown has a confidential Homeland Security Tip Line so individuals can report information pertaining to suspicious persons or actions associated with a potential terrorist threat. Phone: 866-457-8477.

Local Ambulance

New Canaan EMS, formerly known as the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corps, provides the town with continuous emergency service 24/7, 365 days a year, as well as 911 emergency medical care and transport to Stamford and Norwalk hospitals. It’s staffed by certified Emergency Medical Technicians who volunteer their time to serve the community.

Since 1996, the town has contracted with Norwalk Hospital to provide a paramedic on location at NCEMS Headquarters (182 South Ave.). These paramedics able to provide Advanced Life Support interventions that may be necessary to treat life-threatening emergencies.

NCEMS does not charge for its services. The town’s Emergency Medical Services Commission provides oversight, creates policy and sets guidelines. Phone: 203-5943535. Email: ems.commission@newcanaanct.gov. Website: newcanaanems.org.

New Canaan Fire Department

The New Canaan Fire Department (60 Main St.) protects the town’s citizens in fire, rescue, and environmental emergencies. It is headed by Fire Chief Albert Bassett. For routine calls, call 203-594-3140. In the event of an emergency, call 911. The department has two websites: newcanaanfirefighters.com for career staff, and newcanaanfire.com for volunteers.

New Canaan Fire Company No. 1 employs career firefighters, career lieutenants, career captains, and volunteer firefighters. A staff of paid firefighters is on duty at the firehouse 24/7. Volunteers respond when needed.

In addition to structure, brush, and vehicle fires, firefighters are trained to respond to: motor vehicle accidents; water, ice, and confined space rescues; hazardous materials incidents; carbon monoxide emergencies; and a variety of other technical rescues.

Adults must be between the ages of 18 and 55, a New Canaan or Connecticut resident (living no more than five miles from town), and have a valid driver’s license to be a fire volunteer. Website: newcanaanfire.com/volunteering/apply

The Fire Commission manages and supervises the department in duties relative to fire protection and prevention. Meetings are held at the firehouse on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. Email: fire.commission@ newcanaanct.gov.

Fire Marshal’s Office

The Fire Marshal’s Office inspects all buildings (excluding one- and two-family homes), reviews plans for new construction and renovations, and performs inspections during construction.

Fire Marshal Paul Payne responds to hazardous material spills, investigates the cause of all fires in town, issues blasting permits, and handles blasting complaints. He also inspects natural gas installations, monitors certain private events so safety guidelines are followed, and must be present at all public and private fireworks displays. Phone: 203-594-3030. Email: paul.payne@newcanaanct.gov

The office offers fire prevention programs to nursery schools, elementary schools, and older students in conjunction with the department. It also provides information on home escape plans, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguisher operation.

Preparing for Storms & Emergencies

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) plans and prepares for emergencies, coordinates emergency response and recovery, and collects and disseminates emergency

Emergency Services!

information. In addition to supporting the town’s emergency services, the OEM also coordinates emergency response from other local, state, and federal agencies.

The director is Russ Kimes III, and the deputy director is Phil Sheibley. Phone: 203-594-4101.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program helps train and equip citizens to be prepared to help themselves and their neighbors in the event of a disaster, crisis, or common emergency. CERT collaborates with public safety agencies to provide the necessary help when needed. Members who complete the training program can assist first responders, help victims, and organize volunteers at a disaster site. Email: certleader@newcanaancert.org. Website: newcanaancert.org

For power outages, electrical, or natural gas concerns, call Eversource Energy at 800-286-2000 or text OUT to 23129. Have flashlights or candles readily available. Don’t use a gas stove or charcoal fires indoors for heat or illumination and shut off electrical appliances.

For trees leaning on power lines, call the Department of Public Works at 203-594-3054. If it’s an emergency, call the police at 203-594-3500.

Poison Control Hotline

Call 800-222-1222 to connect with experts at the UCONN Medical Center. If medical assistance is needed in an emergency, call 911 and describe the problem to the dispatcher. For poison control information, visit aapcc.org

Transportation!

The New Canaan Highway Department (139 Lakeview Ave.) maintains all 125 miles of public roads within the town. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The state Department of Transportation oversees state highways (Routes 106, 123, and 124).

To report pothole damage on a municipal road, call the Highway Department at 203-594-3704. If it’s a state road, call the DOT at 860-594-2000. If you’re not sure who has jurisdiction, call the town.

Most local roads have speed limits of 25 mph; frequently traveled local roads can reach 30 mph. State highway routes have speed limits up to 40 and 45 mph in New Canaan, although the limits are lower on most sections. Passing a standing school bus will cost you $465 on the first offense.

Parking Rules & Costs

The Parking Bureau provides a broad range of parking services and facilities to meet the parking needs of residents, businesses, and visitors. These include enforcing parking regulations, providing parking information, processing payments for all parking citations and parking permits, pay machine collection, installation and maintenance of pay machines, issuing annual parking permits, and maintaining commuter permit wait lists. The office is located on the first floor of Town Hall (77 Main St.) and is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Phone: 203-594-3040. Website: newcanaan. info/departments/parking_bureau

The Parking Commission recommends rules and procedures regarding off-street parking facilities in town to the Board of Selectmen, including the establishment of fees and the installation of parking meters. It also makes recommenda-

tions on acquiring land via purchase, lease, or gifts for off-street parking. The commission also serves as the Board of Appeals for those wishing to challenge parking ticket fines. Email: parking.commission@newcanaanct.gov.

Free parking is allowed on most downtown streets for varying amounts of time (two hours is most common). Municipal lots with metered and permit parking are located throughout town.

Commuter permit spaces may be used by anyone after 1:15 p.m. on weekdays. The Park Street, Playhouse, Locust Avenue, Center School, and Morse Courts lots are enforced from 9 a.m. to 4:30 pm. The Telephone Company lot has free parking after 2 p.m.

Parking is free in commuter lots on weekends and holidays. All metered spaces in municipal lots (except Morse Court on Saturdays) are free on weekends and holidays.

Fines range from $25 for an expired meter to $30 for parking in a no-parking zone or taking up two spaces, and $75 for obstructing a fire hydrant or crosswalk to $150 for illegally parking in a handicapped spot. Unpaid fines are doubled after 14 days. Accumulation of five or more unpaid fines may result in getting “the boot” or towed.

You must be a New Canaan resident to purchase an annual commuter parking permit. New Canaan commuters may fill out an application in the Parking Bureau’s office or download it from the town website. When a space opens up, the next person on the list will be notified. Business parking permits are available for New Canaan business owners and employees; they do not need to be residents to obtain a permit.

Train Stations & Fares

There are two train stations located in New Canaan: the New Canaan station and the Talmadge Hill station

Transportation!

The New Canaan Station (198 Elm St.) is ADA compliant and has two ticket machines that accept cash, credit, or debit cards. There is no staffed ticket office.

The Talmadge Hill station (1 Talmadge Hill Road) has wheelchair access with a ramp leading up to the platform. It has no ticket machine or staffed ticket office.

Metro-North trains can take people to Norwalk, Stamford, New York City, and other locations in Connecticut and New York state.

Metro-North fares to Grand Central Terminal are one-way for peak or off-peak travel. See chart for most fares. Purchase e-tickets by downloading the MTA app. Phone: 877-690-5114. Website: mta.info.

Amtrak trains can be boarded at the Stamford railroad station. For more information or schedules, call 800-8727245 or visit amtrak.com. For drivers who cross state lines, EZ Pass offers convenient ways to pay highway tolls electronically. Call the Customer Service Center at 800333-8655.

Department of Motor Vehicles

The closest full-service DMV is at 540 Main Ave. in Norwalk and is open by appointment only. Many DMV services are also available online. Website: portal.ct.gov/DMV

Emissions Testing

Vehicles (excluding new ones less than four years old or more than 25 years old) must be tested every other year. You will be notified of your test days via mail. If you do not get your vehicle tested, it fails the test, or has not been granted a waiver, the DMV will not renew your registration. The sole emissions testing station in town is AC Auto Body & Mechanical Service (182 Main St. Phone: 203-966-1818). You can find the complete roster of stations online at ctemissions.com. The state recommends calling a test center ahead to confirm they are still participating in the service, to check their testing hours, and confirm their location.

AAA Services

The closest AAA office is in Stamford (1115 High Ridge Road. Phone: 203-388-2189). It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. AAA offers auto, home, and travel insurance services, travel money, free notary, car rental discounts, international driving permits, movie and attraction tickets, passport photo services, and road services. Website: northeast.aaa.com

New Canaan train station. Contributed Photo.

Property Issues!

Waste Disposal & Recycling

Garbage collection is handled by private hauling companies. For the haulers’ names, call the New Canaan Transfer Station at 203-594-3703.

Residents can also take their garbage and recyclables directly to the transfer station (139 Lakeview Ave.), which is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. It is closed on six major holidays and has slightly reduced hours on certain other holidays.

A permit to use the transfer station is available for purchase online. The cost is $75 if you are not serviced by a private hauler and $45 if you are serviced by a private hauler registered with the town and transfer station departments. Phone: 203-594-3701. Email: transferstation@ newcanaanct.gov

Residents may also drop off construction and demolition materials, brush and yard waste (including Christmas trees), electronics, appliances, waste oil, propane tanks, and tires. For recycling, the transfer station accepts paper, cardboard and boxboard, glass, plastics (No. 1-7), and aluminum food containers. Containers must be empty and lids removed. The town also sponsors a household hazardous waste collection day each fall.

Also around this time, the Department of Public Works sends out a big vacuum truck to collect leaves in areas of town zoned at one acre or less. Homeowners should rake their leaves into a row along the edge of the road no piles, and can verify exact dates by calling the department at 203-594-3054.

Beginning in mid-spring, New Canaan residents can help themselves to leaf mulch from the mulch pile at the transfer station. Homeowners may also take leaves to the composting site, located across from the entrance to Waveny Park on Lapham Road. The site is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Phone: 203-594-3704.

Homeowner Responsibilities

Before building or renovating anything on your property, contact the following departments: building, planning & zoning, wetlands, health, and the fire marshal. For more information, check the town’s zoning regulations online under the Planning & Zoning tab. You may also call Planning & Zoning at 203-594-3042 or the Building Department at 203-594-3012.

The burning of leaves and demolition materials for trash is not permitted. Burn permits are required for residents who wish to dispose of brush via a fire. Permits are issued by the New Canaan Fire Department. Phone: 203-594-3140.

Residents who wish to have small campfires in their yards do not require a burn permit. Fire officials urge residents to use common sense and heed safety precautions.

The town does have a noise ordinance . Construction and lawn care noise is allowed weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays and holidays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The rest of the time, noise from machinery — regardless of how it is powered — may not exceed 45 decibels at the neighboring property line. There is an exception for snow blowers and snow throwers. All motor vehicles are subject to the noise standards and decibel levels established by the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

Blasting — with a permit — may occur Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding state or federal holidays. Noise complaints should be directed to the New Canaan Police Department at 203-594-3500. Those found to be exceeding the limits may be fined $100 per occurrence.

Normal tree maintenance and clearing of dead or hazardous trees does not require a permit. For more ambitious projects, check with Planning & Zoning. A permit is required to drill a well. The well must be a minimum of 75 feet from any source of pollution, such as a septic system, and 25 feet from curtain or footing drains. Residents are generally not allowed to fill in a pond on their property. The town would rather see it restored by a professional. Check with Inland Wetlands at 203-594-3036.

To help avoid digging up utility wires during construction, call the Engineering Department at 203-594-3054 for utility markouts, or call Eversource to indicate where underground utility lines are. State law requires residents to contact Call Before You Dig at 811 at least two work days before the dig to allow a utility crew to come out and mark underground utility wires, cables, and pipelines for free. The utility companies will only mark the facilities they own or maintain.

The fire marshal oversees all underground oil storage tank removals, which require a no-cost permit. The work must be done by a state-licensed spill or tank removal contractor. The fire marshal has a list, or you may call your oil company. When the work is done, a soil test must be performed and results distributed as outlined by the permit.

Generally, residents cannot plant or place anything within the town’s right-of-way. Flowers or groundcover less than 12 inches may be allowed, so long as they do not interfere with sight lines or snow plowing. Do not complain to the town if anything along the right-of-way is damaged during snow removal.

Snow Removal

Owners of residential and commercial properties are responsible for clearing their sidewalks in a timely manner and using sand or salt as needed. Property owners are also responsible for maintaining the general condition of their sidewalks.

Residents are most likely responsible for repairing or replacing mailboxes damaged by the town’s snow plowing. The town does not assume responsibility for replacing

Property Issues!

mailboxes or posts unless they are physically hit by plowing equipment. Mailboxes and supporting posts must be installed to withstand the rigors of snow removal, including the force of snow and slush being plowed to the roadside.

Well Water Issues

The town does not check to see if a home’s well water is safe to drink — that is the responsibility of the homeowner, and only labs certified by the state of Connecticut should do so. The Health Department will help you interpret the homeowner’s responsibility as well as the results of a test. It is suggested that well water be checked every five years. If you suspect the well has been damaged by construction or landscaping, it might be a good idea to have it tested. In addition, if you notice a strange taste or a funny odor in your water, have it tested.

Radon Gas

Radon gas is a decay product of radioactive uranium that cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. Certain soils may contain high levels of radon, and well water can be a significant

source of radon in a home. Exposure to radon increases your risk of developing lung cancer. The simplest way to find out if your house has high levels of radon is a carbon filter test, which can be done by the homeowner. Kits are available at stores and online.

Laws Protecting Old Homes

The town’s Historical Review Committee was formed to encourage the preservation, rehabilitation, and reuse of buildings of architectural, historical, or cultural significance. The committee may enact a waiting period of no more than 90 days before approving a demolition permit for a building that is more than 500 square feet in size and more than 50 years old. The waiting period allows interested parties time to consider and suggest alternatives to demolition, as well as to save historically significant records, artifacts, and other items of historical interest. Public notice of applications for building permits for such structures is required, and objections to the issuance of such building permits should be filed with the Chief Building Official

Pets &Wildlife!

Pet Ownership & Stray Animals

All dogs six months or older must be licensed through the Town Clerk’s office in Town Hall (77 Main St.). You will need a current rabies certificate and proof that your dog has been neutered. You may apply for a dog license in person or by mail. Renewals may be done online. Phone: 203-594-3070.

The cost is $8 for dogs that have been spayed or neutered, and $19 for those that have not. Dogs must be licensed by July 1; a $1 penalty is imposed for each passing month that a dog is unlicensed, per state law. The fine for failing to license your dog is $75. The town ordinance fine for roaming dogs is $90 plus an additional state processing fee of $46.

All dogs or cats three months or older must be vaccinated against rabies. Booster shots are required at least every three years. Failure to immunize your dog or cat against rabies can result in a fine of $136.

If a pet goes missing, contact New Canaan Animal Control Officer Allyson Halm at 203-594-3510, or email allyson. halm@newcanaanct.gov. The town runs an animal control facility to safely house roaming dogs. Dogs that remain unclaimed after seven days are put up for adoption.

If your dog has been missing for more than 24 hours, you might want to call animal control officers in neighboring towns. Missing pets should also be reported to the local animal welfare organization, Strays & Others, Inc., at straysandothers@hotmail.com

Since no laws cover roaming cats, local and state animal control officers do not pick them up unless they’re sick or injured. If you find a stray or lost cat, contact Strays & Others. Note: Outdoor cats and small dogs are at risk of being attacked by coyotes.

Rules for Dogs

Dogs in town are required to be leashed. Dogs in the business district must be on a leash no longer than eight feet. Outside of the business district — including in parks and on school grounds — dogs must be on a leash no longer than 25 feet and under the owner’s control. The fine for dogs found off a leash is $75.

Dogs are also prohibited from entering town-owned buildings, with the exception of service dogs and town-approved activities that invite the presence of animals. Owners must clean up after their dogs, and bagged dog poop must be removed as well. Violation of any of the above could result in a $90 fine.

State law prohibits dogs from roaming on someone else’s property or on any portion of a public highway when not attended by an owner and 100 percent under the owner’s control. A violation can result in a $92 fine.

The animal control officer may declare a dog vicious based on a number of criteria including, but not limited to: a dog that has severely injured or killed a domestic animal or pet

Pets &Wildlife!

while off its owner’s property; any dog that bites or injures a person, dog, or other domestic animal without provocation; and any dog used or trained for dog fighting.

If a dog has been declared vicious, the animal control officer may order the dog’s destruction, the dog’s removal from town, and the dog’s owner to purchase liability insurance, among other steps. An owner may appeal the animal control officer’s decision.

Dog Park at Waveny

Dogs may run off leash at Spencer’s Run Dog Park, a 1.5-acre area in Waveny Park (677 South Ave.) near the Lapham Road entrance next to the paddle tennis lodge. The dog park facility is open every day from sunrise to sunset.

To use Spencer’s Run, owners must register their dogs with the New Canaan Recreation Department. While inside the park, all dogs must wear three tags: a dog license tag, a current rabies vaccination tag, and a Spencer’s Run tag. Animal control personnel monitor the facility to ensure compliance. Website: spencersrunwaveny.info

Local Veterinarians

The New Canaan Veterinary Hospital is located at 7 Vitti St. Phone: 203-966-1627. Website: newcanaanvet.com

Grove Street Veterinary is located at 73 Grove Street. Phone: 203-972-7387.

Adopting a Pet

Strays & Others, Inc is a volunteer-run nonprofit with more than 35 years of service and care for homeless and abandoned animals throughout New Canaan and surrounding areas. The organization is always seeking good homes for its animals, foster homes, and financial support of its operations. Not only does it help match homeless animals with adoptive homes, but it also offers a low-cost spay/neuter program and information and referrals on a variety of pet-related topics. Email: straysandothers@ hotmail.com

Unclaimed dogs at New Canaan Animal Control are put up for adoption after a seven-day stay.

Wildlife Safety

The town is home to wild turkeys, deers, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, fisher cats, and bears. Fallen fruit and bird feeders can attract unwanted wildlife. Contact New Canaan Animal Control Officer Allyson Halm at 203-594-3510, or email allyson.halm@newcanaanct.gov, to

report coyote and bear sightings. She can also answer routine questions involving wildlife encroachment.

Hazing methods — such as making noise, waving arms, throwing small rocks or tennis balls, and using water hoses — can be used to try and get certain animals to leave an area. Intentionally harming wildlife, however, is considered animal cruelty and a crime.

Nuisance wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, or bats in an attic, can be resolved humanely by hiring a nuisance wildlife control operator. The nonprofit Wildlife in Crisis (44 Indian Valley Road, Weston) can assist people who find injured or sick wildlife. Phone: 203-544-9913. Website: wildlifeincrisis.org .

Irwin Park. Contributed Photo.

Town Government!

Town Website

The town’s website is newcanaan.info. It has a tab near the top for Online Services, which users can quickly access agendas, permit forms, bid notices, dog license renewal forms, and more. Check out your current property appraisal or your tax bill, pay your taxes and parking tickets, reserve a recreational court, or sign up for classes at the Lapham Community Center. A list of town officials can be found under the Government tab near the top of the webpage.

Elected & Appointed Boards

New Canaan’s central governing bodies are the Board of Selectmen and Town Council, whose members are elected, and the Board of Finance, whose members are appointed. Also elected are the Town Clerk, Town Treasurer, Registrars of Voters, Probate Judges, Board of Assessment Appeals members, and Constables.

First Selectman Kevin Moynihan (R) was re-elected to a third, two-year term in 2021. His job is a full-time salaried position. Moynihan chairs the Board of Selectmen, which includes Selectman Kathleen Corbet (D), and Selectman Nick Williams (R). All three members are currently serving two-year terms that expire in November 2023. The board meets twice monthly on Tuesday mornings starting at 8:30 a.m. The selectmen are responsible for directing the administration, policy-making, and daily affairs of the town. The first selectman handles day-to-day administration while the board as a whole handles major decisions. The selectmen can be reached at 203594-3000 or via email:

New Canaan Town Hall (77 Main St.) houses most town offices. The original building was erected in 1909, and an $18 million renovation and expansion project was completed in 2015.

Many town offices are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., although times vary for specific departments. The Town Clerk’s Office is open to the public between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Land-use related departments, such as Building, Planning & Zoning, and Inland Wetlands, are open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Department of Human Services’ offices are in the Town Hall Annex behind Town Hall. The Health Department is located in Vine Cottage, the yellow Victorian house adjacent to Town Hall. The Recreation Department is in Waveny House in Waveny Park (677 South Ave.).

■ First Selectman Kevin Moynihan, kevin.moynihan@newcanaanct.gov

■ Selectman Kathleen Corbet, kathleen.corbet@newcanaanct.gov

■ Selectman Nick Williams, nick.williams@newcanaanct.gov

The 12-member Town Council is New Canaan’s legislative body. The council oversees ordinances and appropriations, and is also responsible for approving, rejecting, or reducing appropriations recommended by the Board of Finance.

Members are elected to four-year terms, with six members selected in every odd-numbered election year. Virtual meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall.

Its members are: Stephen Karl (Chairman); Mark E. Grzymski (Vice Chairman); Penny Young (Vice Chairman);

Town Hall. Contributed Photo.

Town Government!

Maria Naughton; Robin Bates-Mason; Cristina A. Ross; Tom Butterworth; Michael Mauro; Rita Bettino; Luke Kaufman; Kimberly Norton; and Hilary Ormond. Email: town.council@ newcanaanct.gov

The Board of Selectmen appoints the members of the following boards and commissions: Board of Finance; Planning & Zoning Commission; Zoning Board of Appeals; Inland Wetlands Commission; Parks & Recreation Commission; Police Commission; Fire Commission; Audit Committee; Health & Human Services Commission; Parking Commission; Emergency Medical Services Commission; Historic District Commission; Building Board of Appeals; Housing Authority; Conservation Commission; and Utilities Commission.

Town Budget & Taxes

In April 2023, the Town Council approved a $166.6 million budget for fiscal year 2024, an increase of 3.12 percent from fiscal year 2023. Included in that total is the schools’ operating budget of $103 million, up 4 percent; the town’s operational expenses of $32.4 million, up 5 percent; a combined debt service of $18.4 million, up 0.3 percent; and tax-funded capital projects of $0.6 million, up 141 percent. (Source: New Canaan Hamlet Hub)

A municipal fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends the following year on June 30.

The mill rate for fiscal year 2022 is 18. 4 mills. The mill rate — also known as the tax rate — determines what people, businesses, and other entities pay New Canaan property taxes. If you take the number of thousands in assessed property value that you own and multiply it by the mill rate, you will get your tax bill. The same system is used for motor vehicles and the taxes that businesses pay on equipment.

Grand List

A Grand List refers to the town’s tax base and represents all taxable property in town, including real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles. It is compiled each year on Oct. 1, but is not filed with the state until late January, when it is subject to Board of Assessment Appeals deliberations.

The 2022 Grand List value is $8 billion, an $88 million increase from 2021.

Information about each property in New Canaan, including their assessments, can be found on the town’s website. Use the Property Appraisal Lookup tab under Online Services or the Real Property Records Search tab on the Town Assessor’s webpage.

Town Assessor

The Town Assessor’s Office is responsible for determining the assessed value of properties in town, including homes, land, commercial and other real estate, as well as motor vehicles and personal property. New Canaan’s assessor is Sebastian Caldarella. Phone: 203-594-3008. Email: sebastian.caldarella@newcanaanct.gov .

To find a property’s value, call the Assessor’s Office at 203-594-3005 or go to the office to look at the field card for that property. The field card lists the particulars that determine the valuation of a home.

Residents can also find assessments and related information online by visiting newcanaan.info. Use the Property Appraisal Lookup tab under Online Services or the Real Property Records Search tab on the Town Assessor’s webpage.

To question an assessment, residents first should call the Assessor’s Office to review the assessment for inaccuracies. If none are found and you still consider the assessment unfair, you may apply to appeal it with the Board of Assessment Appeals. Applications must be filed by a February deadline; the board meets annually in March to hear appeals. The motor vehicle assessment appeal filing period is in September. Email: board.assessment.aapeals@ newcanaanct.gov.

The Assessor’s Office offers tax relief programs for the elderly, the disabled, and veterans.

Tax Collector

New Canaan’s collector is Rosanna DiPanni. Phone: 203-594-3063. Email: rosanna.dipanni@newcanaanct.gov

Property taxes are due in two installments (July 1 and Jan. 1) and can be paid at the Tax Collector’s Office in Town Hall or mailed to the address on the bill. Taxes may be paid within 30 days of the due date without penalty; you can also make payments online. Motor vehicle and personal property taxes are due in one installment on July 1.

Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve someone of the responsibility to pay any taxes, penalties, or interest due. Failure to pay taxes by the due date will result in a 1.5 percent interest charge each month on the installment balance. This works out to 18 percent annually. Additionally, before the end of each fiscal year, real estate liens are filed against all properties with delinquent real estate taxes.

Taxes support schools, police, road improvements, debt payments, and other town services. A detailed account of how collected taxes are spent can be found online at newcanaan.info under the Finance Department tab.

Town Government!

top ten taxpayer accounts

NEW CANAAN GRAND LIST, 2022

M2 Partners LLC

162 Park St. $55,590,710

New England 15-21 LLC

15 and 21 Maple St. $26,446,560

Town Close Associates Ltd Partner 106 Lakeview Ave. $26,020,890

Country Club of New Canaan 95 Country Club Road $20,582,170

M2 Partners LLC

160 and 180 Park St. $20,397,650

Canaan Parish Redevelopment Ltd Partners

186 Lakeview Ave. $18,959,500

New Canaan Lumber Co. 208 and 212 Elm St., Grove Street (vacant land), 45 and 59 Grove St. and 75 Pine St. $17,491,880

Reed Krakoff

104 Dan's Highway $11,892,020

Kenneth G. Tropin, trustee 260 West Road $10,500,000 Kensho Trust 82 Brookwood Lane $10,150,000

721 North Wilton Road LLC 721 North Wilton Road $9,046,730

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk’s Office is one of the busiest in town. The town clerk provides business services such as the filing of liquor permits, the issuance of trade names, notary public records, and peddler licenses. The town clerk also issues dog licenses and accepts and maintains the official filings of all minutes and agendas for more than 50 town boards, commissions, and ad-hoc committees. The office also records land records, including deeds and survey maps. Land Records dating back to 1801 are open to the public and available for review.

New Canaan’s clerk is Claudia Weber. Her office is on the first floor of Town Hall and is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (1 p.m. on Fridays). Phone: 203-594-3070. Email: claudia. weber@newcanaanct.gov

As a chief election officer, the town clerk registers new voters, is responsible for the execution of the absentee ballot process, the execution of all referenda, the calling of a re-canvass when a vote is close, and certifies the town’s official election results. The town clerk also administers the oath of office to all elected and appointed officials, and provides information regarding Freedom of Information rules and the town’s Code of Ethics

The town clerk serves as the registrar of vital statistics and is responsible for the preservation and safekeeping of the town’s official records.

Vital Records

A marriage license may be obtained in the Town Clerk’s Office where either the bride, groom, or partners live or plan to be married, so long as both parties meet state eligibility requirements for marriage. No blood test is required. Both must appear, present a photo ID, and swear an oath. The license costs $50 and is good for 65 days. Appointments are encouraged.

A justice of the peace can officiate weddings within the state, and federal judges can officiate weddings anywhere.

The general public is allowed to peruse marriage and death record indexes and can even obtain certified copies. Restrictions may apply, but birth certificates are confidential. Certified copies of birth certificates will only be issued to the person in question, or, in the case of a minor, their parents or other designated persons.

Building, Zoning & Wetlands Issues

The Planning & Zoning Commission regulates the use and development of land by issuing permits for new construction and adopting and enforcing zoning regulations. The commission reviews applications and makes decisions on new commercial and residential construction. The chairman is Daniel Radman.

The commission normally meets the last Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. in the Town Meeting Room in Town Hall.

Source: O ce of the Assessor. *Figures are not o cial until the Grand List is balanced and signed.

Town Government!

Email: sarah.carey@newcanaanct.gov (cc: lola.sweeney@ newcanaanct.gov).

The P&Z Office focuses on land use matters and reviews applications, enforces zoning regulations, and advises the commission. It also develops and maintains the Town Plan of Conservation and Development, which is similar to a master plan. Phone: 203-594-3042.

The Building Department issues building, mechanical, oil tank, and demolition permits, as well as certificates of occupancy. It inspects all jobs that require permits, and reviews plans to ensure they comply with mechanical and building codes. The Chief Building Official is Brian Platz. Phone: 203-594-3012.

The Zoning Board of Appeals considers requests for variances to the town’s zoning regulations when substantiated by a valid hardship. Meetings are held the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. in the second-floor Board Room of Town Hall. Email: sarah.carey@newcanaanct.gov

The Inland Wetlands Commission enforces regulations to protect, preserve, and maintain the town’s inland wetlands and watercourses. The chairman is Daniel P. Stepanek. Meetings are typically held on the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Town Meeting Room in Town Hall. Email: kathleen.holland@newcanaanct.gov

Town Treasurer

The town treasurer has general oversight of town receipts and expenses, signs off on official statements for bond issues, and reviews disbursements. The treasurer’s signature appears on town checks. It is an elected position with two-year terms. Andrew Brooks is town treasurer. Email: andrew.brooks@newcanaanct.gov

Tree Warden

Bob Horan, New Canaan’s tree warden, ensures the town’s trees are properly maintained, removed, and replaced if deemed hazardous. He also has control of shrubs and trees in whole or in part within the limits of any town road or those extending over highways. Phone: 203-594-3107. Email: treewarden@newcanaanct.gov

Probate Court

New Canaan’s probate court is consolidated with Darien to form the Darien-New Canaan Probate Court, District 52 (Darien Town Hall, 2 Renshaw Road, Darien). The probate judge establishes the validity of wills and administers the estates of people who die without wills. The judge can also terminate parental rights, approve adoptions, act on a minor’s estate, approve guardians for handicapped people, appoint conservators for those who are incapacitated, approve commitment papers for those who are mentally ill, and grant name changes. It is an elected position with a four-year term. The current probate judge is Hon. William P. Osterndorf. Phone: 203-656-7342.

Boards & Commissions

Among the Board of Finance’s many responsibilities is reviewing and recommending the annual budget and setting the mill rate. The board approves account transfers and special appropriations, administers the pension fund and bond issues, and serves as the Water Pollution Control Authority. The chairman is Todd Lavieri.

Virtual meetings are held the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Additional meetings are held in February and March to discuss budget issues. Members are appointed for a four-year term and alternates for two-year terms.

You may contact any member of the board by sending an emailing bofdistribution@newcanaanct.gov.

The town’s Chief Financial Officer is Anne Kelly-Lenz, who oversees the Finance Department. There is also a comptroller and a budget director. Phone: 203-594-3022.

The Police Commission is responsible for managing and supervising the New Canaan Police Department. It appoints the police chief as well as officers. The chairman is Paul Foley. Email: police.commission@newcanaanct.gov

The Fire Commission manages and supervises the New Canaan Fire Department. It also makes recommendations on the budget, personnel, and rules for the department. The chairman is Jack Horner. Email: fire.commission@ newcanaanct.gov .

The Parks & Recreation Commission is responsible for promoting healthy lifestyles through recreation programs. The chairman is George Benington. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. in Town Hall. Email: parkrec.commission@newcanaanct.gov

The Health and Human Services Commission is a combination of the Commission for the Aging, the Youth Commission, and the Board of Human Services. The commission develops and coordinates information concerning all age groups, analyzes the services and programs provided by federal and state agencies, and assists in applying them to New Canaan residents. The chairman is Dr. Harrison Pierce. Meetings are held the first Thursday of the month at 8:45 a.m. in the Health and Human Services conference room. Email: bethany.zaro@newcanaanct.gov

The Historic District Commission encourages the preservation and restoration of buildings in the historic Church Hill area, known as God’s Acre. Historic district regulations are posted on the town’s website. The chairman is Thomas Nissley. Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of the month (except for August, November, and December). Phone: 203-594-3013. Email: martin.skelunas@ newcanaanct.gov

The town has a Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Rules that are overseen and enforced by the Ethics Board The board also has responsibility for promulgating, and in some circumstances conducting investigations under, the town's Whistleblower Policy. The chairman is Alexandra van Nes. Email: alexandra.vannes@newcanaanct.gov

Town Government!

Housing Authority

The mission of the Housing Authority is to provide decent, safe, fair, and affordable housing, and to accept and process applications in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations for vacancies as they become available. The chairman is Scott Hobbs. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the second-floor Board Room of Town Hall. Phone: 203-594-7782. Email: housing.authority@newcanaanct.gov.

Legal Notices & Public Meetings

Legal notices are notifications concerning meetings and actions of local commissions and boards. Information such as proposed budgets, town ordinances, and invitations to bid on projects also appear in legal notices. They can be found in the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall, and many are published in the New Canaan Advertiser.

The state Freedom of Information Act requires that all town commission and board meetings be public. The schedule for a board’s regular meetings must be filed each

Registrars of Voters

year with the town clerk. Special meetings may be called up to 24 hours in advance. Emergency meetings may be held without notice; however, the board must file its minutes — including the reason for the emergency — at the Town Clerk’s Office within 72 hours of the meeting.

Generally all meetings involving a quorum of commission or board members (three members of a five-person board, four of a six-member board, etc.) must be open to the public. However, Connecticut statutes allow a commission to close a meeting to the public if it’s discussing personnel matters, litigation strategy, or contract negotiations. To close a meeting and enter “executive session,” the board must take a vote; the meeting’s closure must be supported by two-thirds of those present and voting. The commission cannot take any action while in an executive session. It must return to open session before voting on any items.

FOI complaints may be filed with the state Freedom of Information Office (165 Capitol Ave., Hartford). Phone: 860-566-5682. Website: portal.ct.gov/FOI.

Voting!

There are two paid registrars, one from each of the two major political parties. They are elected to two-year terms in even-numbered years. They administer elections and safeguard the voting rights of all citizens. The Registrars’ Office is responsible for voter registration, promoting voter education projects, and maintaining the accuracy of the voter registry.

The Republican registrar of voters is Joan McLaughlin. Phone: 203-594-3096. Email: joan.mclaughlin@newcanaanct.gov

The Democratic registrar of voters is John Amarilios. Phone: 203-594-3094. Email: john.amarilios@newcanaanct.gov

Number of Voters

The town had 13,587 registered voters as of Oct. 1, 2022. The breakdown was as follows: 5,079 Republicans, 3,686 Democrats, and 4,822 unaffiliated.

Registering to Vote

To register to vote in New Canaan you must be a town resident, U.S. citizen, and at least 18 years old by Election Day (17-year-olds turning 18 by Election Day can register early and even vote in primary elections). You may enroll in a party or, with certain time restrictions before a primary, switch parties if you are already registered.

Party enrollment enables you to participate in primaries and caucuses. You may also serve on the local town

committee and participate in its activities. Party membership is the most common route to serving on town boards and commissions.

You can register to vote in person Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment at the Registrars’ Office or the Town Clerk’s Office in Town Hall (77 Main St.). You can also register by mail. To get a mail-in registration form, call the Registrars’ Office at 203-594-3060 or visit the registrars’ page at newcanaan.info

Those with a valid Connecticut driver’s license, learner’s permit, or state-issued non-license photo ID can register online at voterregistration.ct.gov, or through a link on the registrars’ page.

The state Department of Motor Vehicles and the New Canaan library also have voter registration forms. Forms can also be downloaded from newcanaan.info

Absentee Ballots

Any registered voter who will be out of town during voting hours may cast an absentee ballot. Other reasons, such as illness or religious beliefs, allow for the use of absentee ballots by those who will be in town during polling hours. Applications are available at the Town Clerk’s Office.

You may vote by absentee ballot for any election. Absentee ballots are available for referendums, but special restrictions may be in effect. They can be mailed to a person upon request or downloaded from the town’s website. Completed

Voting!

presidential election results

Results show how New Canaan residents have voted over the years in comparison to who has won the general election.*

1980

67% RONALD

*Some

ballots should be mailed to the Town Clerk (77 Main St., First Floor, P.O. Box 447, New Canaan, CT 06840) or dropped off in person weekdays during office hours.

Town Elections

Election of town officials is held on the Tuesday after the first Monday of November in odd-numbered years. State and federal elections are held in even-numbered years. Polling hours are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

A referendum is a question or proposal that is submitted to a vote among the electors or voters of a municipality. The outcome may be legally binding or non-binding, depending on the nature of the question. Typically a referendum is used to approve or reject a budget or major project.

Voting Districts

New Canaan has six voting districts:

District 1 encompasses the west side of town from the Stamford border to Route 123. Voters in this district cast ballots at New Canaan High School (11 Farm Road).

District 2 is sandwiched between Routes 123 and 106, bordering Wilton and New York state in the northeast corner of town and almost reaching Darien in the south. Voters in this district cast ballots at Saxe Middle School (468 South Ave.).

District 3 encompasses the southeast corner of town and borders Norwalk. Voters in this district cast ballots at Saxe Middle School (468 South Ave.).

Districts 4, 5, and 6 comprises a little sliver of town between Route 124 and the New Canaan-Norwalk border. Voters in this district cast ballots at East Elementary School (54 Little Brook Road).

If you are unsure of your voting district, call the Town

Clerk’s Office (203-594-3070) or the Registrars’ Office (203-594-3060). You can also visit the registrar’s webpage at newcanaan.info

Voting Information

The League of Women Voters of New Canaan produces a “Know Your Representatives” brochure for most elections. The printed edition is available in Town Hall, at the New Canaan library, and other locations; a digital version can be accessed online at lwvnewcanaan.org. The website also allows people to look up where they should vote.

Political Party Committees

To get actively involved in town government, you may or may not become affiliated with a political party and volunteer your services. If certain functions of government interest you, such as education, recreation, or zoning, you can attend meetings of the agencies involved. All town meetings are open to the public.

For more information, Republicans should contact Republican Town Committee Chairman Patrick Donovan at chairman@ newcanaanrepublicans.org. Website: newcanaanrepublicans. org. Democrats should contact Democratic Town Committee Chairman Christina Fagerstal at info@ctdems.org. Website: newcanaandems.info

The political parties nominate candidates for elected or appointed positions. Non-party candidates may petition to get on the ballot for elected positions. The Board of Selectmen may appoint voters who are not affiliated with any party to non-elected committees, commissions, and boards. Candidates for appointed boards are appointed by the selectmen, often upon recommendations from the political parties and/or current board members.

State&National Officials!

State House

New Canaan encompasses two state House of Representatives districts, the 125th and 142nd.

Most of the town lies in the 125th District represented by Tom O’Dea, a Republican from New Canaan. Phone: 860-240-8700. Email: tom.odea@cga.ct.gov. Website: cthousegop.com/odea.

The southeastern part of town (Silvermine and Hoyt Farm areas) is part of the 142nd District, represented by Lucy Dathan, a Democrat from New Canaan. Phone: 860-2408585. Email: lucy.dathan@cga.ct.gov. Website: housedems. ct.gov/dathan

State Senate

New Canaan encompasses two state Senate districts, the 26th District in the east, and the 36th District in the west.

Representing the 26th District is Ceci Maher, a Democrat from Westport. Phone, 860-240-0068. Email: ceci.maher@ cga.ct.gov. Website: senatedems.ct.gov/maher

Ryan Fazio, a Republican from Greenwich, represents the 36th District. Phone: 860-240-0567. Website: ctsenaterepublicans.com/home-fazio

U.S. Senate

The senior U.S. Senator is Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Greenwich who formerly served as the state’s attorney general. Local Office: 915 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport. Phone: 203-330-0598. D.C. Office: 202-224-2823. Website: blumenthal.senate.gov

The junior senator is Chris Murphy, a Democrat from Cheshire and a former congressman for Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District. Local Office: Colt Gateway, 120 Huyshope Ave., Hartford. Phone: 860-549-8463. D.C. Office: 202-224-4041. Website: murphy.senate.gov.

U.S. House

New Canaan is in Connecticut’s 4th Congressional District and is represented by Jim Himes, a Democrat from Greenwich. Local Office: 888 Washington Blvd., Stamford. Phone: 203-353-9400. D.C. Office: 2137 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. Phone: 202-225-5541. Website: himes.house.gov

Contacting Governor’s Office

Gov. Ned Lamont , a Democrat from Greenwich, was re-elected to a four-year term in 2022. Office: State Capitol, 210 Capitol Ave., Hartford. Phone: 860-566-4840. Email: governor.lamont@ct.gov . Website: portal.ct.gov/ governor Susan Bysiewicz , a Democrat from Middletown, serves as lieutenant governor. Phone: 860-524-7384. Email: ltgovenor.bysiewicz@ct.gov . Website: portal.ct.gov/ o ce-of-the-lt-governor

Justices of the Peace!

The powers and duties of the town’s Justices of the Peace are mandated by state statute. Commonly-used powers of the justices include:

■ Performance of marriages

■ Administration of General Oaths

■ Authority to take the acknowledgement in the conveyance of real estate

■ Acknowledgement of primary and nomination petitions

■ Issuance of a subpoena in a civil action or probate proceeding

Two thirds of the candidates for Justice of the Peace are appointed by the town’s political parties. The remaining one third is allocated for minority party members and unaffiliated voters; these are appointed by the Town Clerk.

New Canaan’s current Justices of the Peace are:

Cristina Aguirre-RossJohn A. Amarilios

Andrew BrooksJordan L. Cerbone

Susan G. CeresaKathleen Corbet

Patrick F. DonovanLisa Hannich

Beth Jones Suzanne Jonker

Matthew KonsporeJohn Kriz

Dan LaGattutaAlyssa MacKenzie

Benjamin MarkusTucker B. Murphy

Bernard SimpkinPatrick Tiani

E Whitney Williams Jen Zonis

Business!

Chamber of Commerce

The New Canaan Chamber of Commerce provides residents and business owners with up-to-date knowledge of everything New Canaan has to offer. With offices at 77 Main St., the chamber has more than 380 members. Through town-wide events such as the Village Fair and Sidewalk Sale, Taste of the Town Stroll, Halloween Parade, Holiday Lights Festival, Holiday Stroll, and Chamber Cup golf outing, it strives to reinforce a commitment to the New Canaan community and local commerce. The chamber works to establish the town as a destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment. It also hosts networking events throughout the year. Phone: 203-966-2004. Website: newcanaanchamber.com

Board of Realtors

The New Canaan Board of Realtors (69 Grove St.) was founded in 1951 and provides industry information, education, and benefits for member real estate professionals. As part of the Connecticut and National Associations of Realtors, it develops standards for efficient, effective, and ethical real estate business practices. The Board owns and operates the New Canaan Multiple Listing Service, Inc. Website: newcanaanbor.com

Postal Services

The New Canaan Post Office (18 Locust Ave.) has a 24/7 Self Service Kiosk and P.O. Boxes available to rent. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Phone: 203-966-1659.

Local Bank Locations

■ Bank of America, 94 Elm St., Phone: 203-801-2671.

■ Bankwell in New Canaan, 156 Cherry St., Phone: 203-966-7080.

■ Chase Bank, 122 Main St., Phone: 203-972-1606.

■ Chase Bank (Drive-up), 21 East Ave., Phone: 203-972-1606.

■ Citibank, 175 Elm St., Phone: 203-920-4084.

■ First County Bank, 95 Park St., Phone: 203-966-2711.

■ M&T Bank, 95 Main St., Phone: 203-966-3630.

■ Wells Fargo, 152 Main St., Phone: 203-966-2641.

Grocery Stores

ACME (288 Elm St.) is open every day from 7a.m. to 10p.m. Phone: 203- 966-0017.

Walter Stewart’s Market (229 Elm St.) is open weekdays from 7:30a.m. to 7:30p.m., Saturdays from 7:30a.m. to 7p.m., and Sundays from 8a.m. to 6p.m. Phone: 203-966-4848. Website: stewartsmarket.com

Funeral Services

The only public cemetery in New Canaan is Lakeview Cemetery (352 Main St.). Phone: 203-966-1861. Website: newcanaancemetery.com

Hoyt Funeral Home (199 Main St.) is a family-owned business that has been serving the New Canaan area since 1921. Phone: 203-966-0700. Website: hoytfuneralhome.com

Local Newspaper

The New Canaan Advertiser has been serving residents and businesses as a forum for news, community events, opinions, and advertisements since 1908. The print edition is published on Thursdays, but its website, ncadvertiser.com, provides updates on emergency situations, town meetings, sporting events, obituaries, weather, and traffic 24/7. Phone: 203-330-6245. Email: editor@ncadvertiser.com

Downtown New Canaan. Contributed Photo.

Utilities!

Electric, Water, & Natural Gas

Eversource Energy (formerly Connecticut Light Power) provides both gas and electrical distribution to the town. For customer service, call 888-783-6617 (electric) or 888-688-7267 (gas). Hearing-impaired customers can call 800-346-9994.

The website offers advice and incentives, like rebates on your bill, for making your home and electrical appliances more energy efficient. It also has an outage map showing a town-by-town listing of customers who have reported an electrical outage during and/or after a storm or due to technical problems. An FAQ section answers power outage questions such as why a neighbor’s electricity is restored before yours, who gets power back first, and information about home generators. Website: eversource.com

Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut delivers water through its Bridgeport-based distribution system and wells in New Canaan. To keep customers informed about scheduled or unscheduled work, Aquarion uses a CodeRED notification system to contact affected customers. The company encourages customers to sign up for this free service at aquarionwater.com/alerts. Phone: 800-732-9678 (customer service) or 800-832-2373 (water quality management inquiries).

New Canaan’s sewer service area includes the center of town and most of the one-acre zoned areas. Sewer usage fees are billed separately from the homeowner’s tax bill. The town’s Water Pollution Control Authority oversees 25 miles of sanitary sewers, three pump stations, and a wastewater treatment plant. In case of a sewer backup, call 203-594-3700.

Trees on Power Lines

If you spot trees or limbs on power lines, call the Department of Public Works at 203-594-3054 and Eversource at 800-286-2000. Eversource has “Storm Center” information and an outage map on its website. You can reach the town’s Tree Warden, Bob Horan, at 203-594-3107.

Local Television & Video

NCTV79 is New Canaan's dedicated television station for government, community, and arts and cultural programming. You can even watch town government meetings live from multiple devices by visiting the website. The station is always interested in viewers’ ideas for programs. Email: info@nctv79.org. Website: nctv79.org

Television Service

Several providers offer a variety of cable/satellite television packages, including Optimum, Dish, and DirectTV Other options exist for television service, including Internet TV providers.

Area Codes

Fairfield and New Haven counties have the 203 area code; all other counties are 860. The only exceptions are Woodbury and Sherman. The 203 zone also includes area code 475, and the 860 territory has area code 959.

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