Newsletter Volume 4 • Number 1
An open process kick-starts stalled ice rink
After years of stalemate, the Hamill Rink task force is turning things around, bringing transparency, collaboration, and long-overdue momentum to the effort to rebuild Greenwich’s municipal skating rink.
Opened in 1971, the Dorothy Hamill Rink has been plagued by structural deficiencies, outdated systems, and substandard ice dimensions. But for years, the process of replacing it was mired in missteps: inadequate consultation with neighbors, a planning committee composed only of rink users, and a controversial land “flip” proposal presented without exploring alternatives.
Charting a new path
These breakdowns ultimately led to the Representative Town Meeting’s (RTM) rejection of the plan in early 2025. But a new task force that the RTM called for is charting a path forward that finally puts community voices at the center.
The task force is modeling how good governance can work. Chaired by Board of Estimate and Taxation member Matt DesChamps, the group includes representatives from the RTM, the disability advocacy and veterans communities, the Byram neighborhood, and local skating organizations. Supported by officials from the First Selectman’s office, Parks & Recreation, and Planning & Zoning, the task force is focused on delivering a thorough and balanced site recommendation.
Community engagement is key
The task force holds weekly public meetings and has laid out a detailed rink project plan and a comprehensive rink evaluation matrix to guide its work. Discussions also include plans for Eugene Morlot Memorial Park, ensuring the veterans memorial is treated with the respect it deserves.
Community engagement has been central. In late April, the task force hosted a meeting at Hamill Rink with leaders from Greenwich High School Athletics, Cardinal Youth Hockey, and the Greenwich Skating Club, who emphasized the need to avoid major programming disruptions and build a state-of-the-art facility. The task force also met with RTM leadership and held a public hearing to ensure that resident input directly informs the process.
Residents are encouraged to follow the task force’s work and share feedback.
Thanks to strong leadership and community-driven teamwork, the Hamill Rink task force is finally moving this long-delayed project forward, with transparency, inclusion, and purpose.
Greenwich Democrats roll up their sleeves at Pomerance Park
On June 19, about two dozen enthusiastic volunteers turned out under the blazing sun for a Greenwich Democrats–led Community Service Day at Pomerance Pinetum Park. Despite the heat, spirits were high as participants planted native trees and shrubs such as pawpaw and bottlebrush buckeye, and cleared invasive intruders threatening our park’s ecosystem. Even U.S. Congressman Jim Himes got in on the action and Board of Selectmen candidate Rachel Khanna brought her energy and passion to the cause.
“It was a great and productive day,” Tree Warden Dr. Gregory Kramer noted. “The addition of the new trees will have a tremendous impact on both the park visitor experience and the benefits to wildlife.”
Democratic values at work
The town’s Parks & Rec department does its best to maintain the park, but the invasive growth outpaces their capacity. This kind of hands-on action, powered by Democratic values of stewardship, public service, and community, is exactly what makes Greenwich stronger.
Keep an eye on this newsletter for future community action days—there are more opportunities ahead to make a difference together!
What we’re reading
Greenwich Democrats reject state housing overreach
This week Governor Lamont vetoed a controversial housing bill opposed by local planning officials that would require towns to build more housing on terms set by the state.
All of Greenwich’s state delegation voted against the bill. At a legislative session wrap up, Representative Steve Meskers said, “I’ve always been a supporter of local control… I was born in the Bronx and lived in Brooklyn. If I wanted Greenwich to look like Brooklyn I would have stayed in Brooklyn.” Read about Greenwich’s Planning and Zoning Chair Margarita Alban’s thoughts on the vetoed bill here.
Action Calendar
July 16. Join.
Come to our monthly DTC meeting 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Meeting Room. Members: Don’t miss this crucial meeting. It will be your only chance to vote on candidates recommended for endorsement in the municipal elections!
July 20. Meet.
Save the date to meet our Democratic candidates running for municipal office. More details to come. 4:00 p.m.
| Volume 4, Number 1 • June 26, 2025 |
| Paid for by the Greenwich Democratic Town Committee. |
| Greenwich Democratic Town Committee P.O. Box 126 Greenwich, CT 06836 |