Newsletter Volume 3 • Number 18
Most Republicans AWOL in vote to fund access improvements to The Avenue
After repeated efforts to derail funding that would bring Greenwich Avenue into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Republicans on the town finance board caved to public pressure last week—sort of. Chair Harry Fisher joined all six Democrats to vote yes, while four other Republicans abstained.
This script played out similarly to others in recent times: Right wing officials cut, delay, or refuse funding (even from outside sources) to fix streets, sidewalks, schools, and services, while Democrats and centrists swoop in to save the day.
Democrats persevere at state and local level
- Last April, Rep. Rachel Khanna secured $6.5 million in state money to restart a traffic mitigation and pedestrian safety project in the center of Glenville.
- Reps. Khanna, Steve Meskers, and Hector Arzeno intervened to help Greenwich win an $800,000 state grant to improve safety at three busy downtown crossings.
- Thanks to Khanna, Meskers, and Arzeno, Greenwich was awarded about $15 million more than anticipated to rebuild Central Middle School.
The Greenwich Avenue ADA funding, which is only half of what the Department of Public Works requested, stalled when finance board Republicans asked for a public hearing to air concerns from “women that wear high-heeled shoes.” Later, they argued that Greenwich may not even have to comply with federal law. That crazy idea cost taxpayers money, as the town hired an attorney to confirm what we already knew: we must comply.
Dems don’t let our infrastructure fall apart
Everyone wants a town where schools and roads are maintained, and pedestrians can walk their neighborhoods safely. For Democrats, good stewardship of the public commons is no different than keeping your home in good repair.
The 2021 federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness, offering long overdue improvements to ports, airports, rail, and roads. Connecticut will receive approximately $2.2 billion for that, and roughly $77 million for clean water.
“We are creating a community that works for everyone,” Rep. Khanna reflected. “The need for comprehensive infrastructure improvements cannot be overstated.”
As you consider the choices in this November’s election, ask yourself, “Do I want to vote for the party that gets things done to improve our town, or the party that has nothing to offer but cheap scare tactics about crime and high rises to divide us?” The choice is clear. Early voting begins October 21.
Voter rights referendum on November ballot
You can help make voting by mail accessible to everyone by greenlighting a state constitutional amendment on your ballot. If passed, CT would join the 28 other states that allow voters to vote by mail without an excuse. You should vote YES.
Connecticut has one of the most restrictive absentee ballot rules in the U.S., allowing voters to use them only if they meet one of six strict criteria. This amendment would remove those restrictions.
CT lawmakers expanded mail-in voting in 2020 and 2021, during COVID19. The system proved to be a safe, effective and convenient way to cast votes. At a time when many states are moving to restrict voting, CT has the opportunity to strengthen our democracy by enhancing voter access.
Why are you voting for Democrats this November?
Greenwich neighbors weigh in
“The Republican Party in the 21st century is devoted to nothing but chaos and mindless division. The Democratic Party is devoted to progress, effective governance and securing the rights of all.”
— Jack Howes, Greenwich
Democratic Action Calendar
Volunteer.
Sign up to volunteer with the Greenwich Democrats this election season. Come by our headquarters on Saturday or Sunday to help us write postcards to voters, or just drop in any day and get to work. We are open daily 10 am to 6 pm.
October 4. Call.
Virtual phone bank for Nick Simmons, 5:00 p.m., login here.
October 4, 5 & 6. Canvass.
Join the Nick Simmons campaign canvass this Friday, Saturday or Sunday. RSVP here for details. Canvass with Rachel Khanna on same dates. RSVP here.
October 6. Do Something.
Day of Action with US Senator Chris Murphy. 12:45 p.m., 23 Benedict Place (rear entrance). More info here.
October 8 & 10. Call.
Virtual phone bank for Rachel Khanna, 4-6:00 p.m. Sign up here.
October 8. Listen.
State House (district 149) and State Senate candidate debates, Round Hill Association. Refreshments 6:30 p.m., debate 7:00 p.m. Round Hill Community House.
October 15. Learn.
State Senate and State House candidate debates, Greenwich League of Women Voters, 7:00 pm. Register.
| Volume 3, Number 18 • October 3, 2024 |
| Paid for by the Greenwich Democratic Town Committee. |
| Greenwich Democratic Town Committee P.O. Box 126 Greenwich, CT 06836 |