NORWALK, CT — As 2023 comes to a close and Norwalk gets ready to ring in the new year, many residents will likely find themselves making a list of resolutions for when the clock strikes midnight on Jan. 1.
In light of this, Patch reached out to various leaders throughout the city and asked what their new year’s resolution was for Norwalk, or their department, in 2024. Here is what they had to say:
Mayor Harry Rilling
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“As we look ahead into the new year, education, new schools, and facility upgrades continue to be one of my top priorities. In 2020, the City renovated Ponus Ridge School, and in 2022, we renovated Jefferson Elementary School. This year, we welcomed Cranbury Elementary School students into a new state-of-the-art school, the first new school in Norwalk in over 50 years. In 2024, we are moving forward with next steps for the new Norwalk High School and new neighborhood school in South Norwalk. Children are the future and our most precious resource and I believe that a community that invests in education – invests in the future.
“Furthermore, I am committed to making Norwalk the greenest city in CT. Through the city’s newly relaunched Mayor’s Dashboard, you can see how, year after year, Norwalk has been increasing the amount of newly planted trees, as well as newly installed sidewalks, bike lanes, and bike racks to enhance walkability and connectivity and protect our environment by reducing our carbon footprint. In 2024, we plan to expand our sustainable transportation options by also growing our electric and hybrid fleet of city-owned vehicles and investing in electric vehicle charging infrastructure to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. We will continue to invest in sustainable infrastructure that proactively addresses the threats of climate change, while looking for new ways to advance efficiency of our citywide waste management and conservation services for residents.
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“Finally, in 2023, the city of Norwalk was recognized by CT Insider, Fortune Magazine and Livability.com as a top city to live in, and I want to continue enhancing the quality of life for residents. In 2024, we are committed to continuing to beautify our neighborhoods by addressing more blighted properties and zoning compliance inquiries. We will also enhance existing parks and green spaces by making improvements, such as maintaining cleanliness and adding new amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and recreation facilities.
“We also recently adopted the city of Norwalk’s new 10-Year Recreation and Parks Master Plan, which aims to expand recreation opportunities to benefit residents’ physical, social and emotional health. The Master Plan includes creating an indoor community recreation center in South Norwalk and increasing outdoor recreation amenities and programs by adding year-round tennis programs, new pickleball courts and new playground equipment. We will continue to offer our summer camps, kayak rack rental opportunities, field use permits, event permits for parks and more, encouraging community involvement at parks and green spaces to help build community and increase residents’ overall quality of life.”
Police Chief James Walsh
“Happy New Year. The Norwalk Police Department strives to improve the quality of life issues that affect Norwalk residents and, at the same time continue to lower crime and maintain public safety in the city.
“We as public safety leaders are continually adapting to best respond to the ever-changing demands of American law enforcement throughout the year to provide excellent service and community relations.
“As 2024 approaches we wish everyone a happy and healthy new year.”
Superintendent Alexandra Estrella
“My new year’s resolution is for everyone in Norwalk Public Schools to celebrate our diversity and embrace kindness. Only in a safe and nurturing environment, will we see our scholars truly thrive and I look forward to celebrating all their accomplishments and success in the new year.”
Department of Recreation and Parks Director Robert Stowers
“To be more engaged with the public, and more public participation.”
Town Clerk Richard McQuaid
“Simply, ‘ENJOY EVERY SANDWICH!’ It’s a quote from Warren Zevon, check it out. Happy new year!”
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