2023 Darien Answerbook

DARIEN TIMES SPECIAL SECTION

twenty twenty-thre

Demographics!

The Town of Darien: By Land and by Sea

Darien comprises almost 13 square miles of land, with some 16.5 miles of shoreline along Long Island Sound. The town sits at an elevation ranging from sea level to 250 feet above sea level. Darien is 36 miles from New York City, 64 miles from Hartford, and 155 miles from Boston.

Darien’s current population is 21,485. This reflects a 4 percent increase from a decade ago, when the population was 20,732. In 2000, the town’s population was 19,607. Darien reached its highest population of 21,759 in 2018.

The average household income in Darien is $250,000, with more than 1,000 people living below the poverty level. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $3,505 per month, and the average home value is $1.475 million. The median age in Darien is 39.9 years.

Demographics

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the racial composition of Darien is:

■ White: 84.8%

■ Black or African American: 0.8%

■ Hispanic or Latino, 4.9%

■ Asian: 6.1%

■ Two or more races: 3.4% The population by age range is:

■ Under 18 years: 32%

■ 18 – 64 years: 32%

■ 65+ years: 13.3%

The following data is based on information from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Connecticut Department of Labor:

■ Bachelor’s degree or higher: 85.7%

■ Households with a broadband Internet subscription: 97%

■ Mean travel time to work: 39.3 minutes

■ Per capita income in the past 12 months: $139,079

■ Households: 6,978

■ Persons per household: 3.1

■ Unemployment rate: 4.3%

Source:

History!

1640

New Haven Colony members purchase a tract of wilderness from the Siwanoys, a local Indian tribe, in what is now Stamford and Darien. A few dozen settler families work the land. Later, more property is purchased from the Roatons, another tribe.

1700

The first roads were created in the forests. A school district is established along with a gristmill, sawmill, and shipyard.

1737

Middlesex Parish is formed and a meetinghouse built. The Country Road passes through the area as part of the main route between New York and Boston.

1781

Local Tories (supporters of Britain during the American Revolution) capture the Middlesex minister Rev. Moses Mather and a group of male parishioners and take them to Long Island as prisoners.

1820

The Town of Darien is incorporated as the area is granted independence from Stamford. It is believed the name is based on the Darién Province in Panama.

1848

The New Haven Railroad begins train service, leading to economic development and the arrival of immigrants. The town prospers in the post-Civil War boom, and some wealthy New Yorkers discover its beauty and build summer homes.

1864

Fitch’s Home, the first home for disabled veterans and soldiers’ orphans in the United States, opens in Darien.

1910

The population has doubled since 1880, growing to 3,946, and kicks off a 50-year growth spurt.

1913

Enthusiastic newcomers bring together more than 500 Darienites to produce “The Pageant of Darien.”

1927

Darien's first high school opens. The building now serves as Town Hall.

1929

The town’s first movie theater opens, with a seating capacity of 700 people.

1938

A devastating hurricane brings a record 10-foot storm surge through town.

1940

The population reaches 9,222, more than double from 1920. Fitch Home veterans move to a new state facility in Rocky Hill while the U.S. Navy takes over the buildings to establish a radio training school.

1958

The Connecticut Turnpike opens, boosting the residential development that began post-World War II.

1960

The population doubles yet again, to 18,437.

This condensed history was prepared and contributed by Madeline Hart and Ken Reiss of the Museum of Darien (formerly the Darien Historical Society).

Recreation!

Parks & Recreation Department

Pamela Gery is the director of the Parks and Recreation Department. The office is in Room 110 at Town Hall. Phone: 203-656-7325. Website: darienct.gov/parkrec

The Parks and Recreation Commission meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Weed Beach Paddle Tennis Building.

Parks

The town has 12 park facilities encompassing 205 acres that offer passive and active recreational opportunities. Darien also enjoys 30 acres of shoreline beaches on Long Island Sound.

Open all four seasons, the 22-acre Weed Beach off Nearwater Lane offers views of Long Island Sound. The park includes a bathing area, picnic areas, tennis courts, paddle tennis courts, children’s play areas, a bathhouse, windsurfing area, and a concession stand. The Darien Junior Sailing Program operates at Weed Beach. Summer programs include sailing and windsurfing lessons.

Pear Tree Point Beach is located off Pear Tree Point Road at the mouth of the Goodwives River. It has a bathing area, handicapped accessible picnic area with picnic tables and grills, a gazebo overlooking Long Island Sound, a bathhouse, a concession stand, a boat launch ramp, and two beaches.

Recreation!

The beach is home to the Darien Boat Club.

The four-acre McGuane Park is located off Noroton Avenue near the Noroton Heights Firehouse. The park is handicapped accessible, and the ballfields are used by Darien Little League.

Families with young children enjoy Baker Park on Noroton Avenue, which has a playscape and play areas. There is also a large grassy area for picnics or an impromptu game of Frisbee. The park’s multi-purpose softball/soccer field is used by the men’s and co-ed softball leagues. Hiking trails skirt the park, offering a walk past a variety of flowers and trees.

Cherry Lawn Park on Brookside Road may be Darien’s most used park. It has playing fields, a playground, a pond, a picnic area, and the Cherry Lawn Gardens. It’s also the home of the Darien Nature Center.

Other parks in town are: Town Hall & Holahan Fields, behind Town Hall; Tilley Pond Park, which has a pond and gazebo, at Lakeside and West avenues; Stony Brook Park, with open green space, at Ledge Road; and Frate Park, a triangle at the end of Leroy Avenue and Middlesex Road.

Selleck’s Woods and Woodland Park are two nature preserves with walking trails. Enter Selleck’s Woods on Parklands Drive or Littlebrook Road. Entrances to Woodland Park are located on Middlesex Road and West Avenue.

Darien’s first ADA-compliant walking trail is open at Highland Farm (560 Middlesex Road). The trail is for walkers and joggers to enjoy.

The Darien Nature Center

The Darien Nature Center is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the natural world. Offerings for families and children of all ages include live animals, seasonal exhibits, a children’s nature trail, a spring-fed pond, and a children’s nature library. The center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Phone: 203-655-7459. Website: dariennaturecenter.org

Town Concert Series

Weed Beach is the site of a family concert series organized by Parks & Rec. The Youth Commission also puts on a series of concerts for young people at the park. Call 203656-7326 for details.

Town Recreation Programs

Parks & Rec offers programs for preschoolers through senior citizens. Adult programs include tennis lessons, golf lessons, basketball, volleyball, guitar lessons, safe boating, and dog obedience class. For youth, there’s tennis, soccer, basketball, baseball, golf, karate, yoga, and dance programs plus piano, guitar, and drum lessons. Seniors are offered exercise programs, arts and crafts, languages, discussion groups, games, flower arranging, and volunteer opportuni-

ties. Programs (which also include day trips and vacation and summer camps) are outlined in seasonal brochures that are mailed to all residents and available on the town’s website, darienct.gov. Phone: 203-656-7325.

Local Community Gardens

Cherry Lawn Community Gardens in Cherry Lawn Park offers gardeners of all levels the opportunity to cultivate and harvest organic herbs, flowers, and vegetables from spring through autumn. Membership is open to Darien residents only and all plots are currently taken. There is an application available to be on the waiting list. Call Dorothy Shergalis at 203-252-4507 for details.

Park, Beach, & Boat Permits

The 2023 Parks and Recreation spring and summer brochure includes applications for a beach/park permit and boat launch. An online version is available on the Parks & Rec webpage at darienct.gov. Permits are issued per vehicle and are available to Darien residents and taxpayers only. In general, they must be displayed from mid-May through mid-September at certain facilities, or whenever a gatehouse is staffed.

Resident permits cost $53 per vehicle, and senior residents receive one free permit per family. The fee is $85 for non-resident taxpayers or vehicles registered out of town. A boat launching permit is $50 per boat. A daily boat launch is $70.

Website: darienct.gov/parkrec

Parks & Rec also issues park facility permits to residents and their guests to reserve picnic areas. To apply for a permit, call 203-656-7325 or email parkrec@darienct.gov. Allow a minimum of two weeks for permit approval.

Swimming at the Beach

Swimming is allowed at Weed Beach and Pear Tree Point Beach. Resident stickers are required. The Health Department maintains a beach hotline at 203-656-7323. During swimming season, the department collects water samples weekly from each of the beaches and updates the hotline with information as to whether they are open for swimming.

Parks & Rec offers American Red Cross swimming lessons for children of all ability levels.

Swimming Teams

The Piranha Swim Team is the Darien YMCA’s competitive swimming program for children and teens. For information, email Coach Henk Jansen at piranha@darien-ymca.org

Website: darien-ymca-piranhas.org

While not a swim team, the YMCA’s Masters Swim program offers experienced adult swimmers 19 and over the opportunity to practice competitive swimming techniques. The group has reserved pool time for lap swimming under the guidance of a coach. Phone: 203-655-8228, ext. 1397.

Email: swimadmin@darien-ymca.org

Recreation!

Boating Clubs & Courses

The Noroton Yacht Club in Darien Harbor promotes family participation in sailboat racing and recreational sailing. The club also has a junior sailing program. Phone: 203-655-7686. Website: norotonyc.org.

The Darien Boat Club (135 Pear Tree Point Road) is open to member residents of Darien. The club offers slips for 260 boats, social events, and a clubhouse for private parties. Phone: 203-655-1927. Website: darienboatclub.org.

The Darien Sail & Power Squadron is dedicated to educating boaters and offers a safe boating course twice a year. Graduates receive a diploma that meets the requirements for the state Safe Boating Certificate and Coastal Boater Endorsement, which is necessary to operate any recreational vessel in state waters. Website: dps.darien.org. Parks & Rec also offers safe boating courses. Phone: 203-656-7325.

Storing a Boat

Mooring spaces for more than 290 sail and power craft are located throughout Darien Harbor, Noroton Bay, Ziegler’s Cove, and Scott’s Cove. Harbor Master John Keena (203984-7389/darienharbor@darienct.gov) handles all mooring applications. Dock spaces are also available at the Noroton Yacht Club and Darien Boat Club for members only.

Pear Tree Point Beach has a public launch site for motorized boats. Light water craft may be launched at Weed Beach. Both a boat launching sticker ($45) and beach sticker ($45) are required.

Acquiring a Fishing License

Inland fishing licenses are $28 (or $32 including marine waters) and are required for anyone 18 and older. A $5 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 available at the Town Clerk’s Office and many tackle shops. Fishing licenses are not needed in the marine district unless you are 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

Fitness Activities

The Darien YMCA (2420 Post Road) offers fitness opportunities such as swimming, aerobics, spinning, cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, and personal fitness programs. Phone: 203-655-8228. Website: darien-ymca.org

The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk (49 Old Kings Highway North) offers a regular series of fitness classes. Phone: 203-655-2535. Website: ywcadn.org

Several private fitness studios and gyms are also located in Darien.

Local Tennis Courts

Weed Beach Park has six tennis courts and five paddle tennis courts. Cherry Lawn Park also has tennis courts. Youth and adult tennis lesson programs are offered in the spring and summer. Call Parks & Rec at 203-655-7325 for details.

Bicycling

Sound Cyclists is a member-run bicycle club that organizes group rides throughout Fairfield County. The organization has social events, a newsletter, and members are entitled to discounts at many area bicycle shops. Website: soundcyclists.com

The Connecticut Department of Transportation offers maps of multi-use trails throughout the state, as well as a statewide bicycle map. Visit ct.gov/dot. Note: Children ages 15 and under must wear a helmet when bicycling in Connecticut.

Ice Skating

The Darien Ice House (55 Old Kings Highway North) has public skating sessions as well as a skating school, skating parties, and hockey camp. Phone: 203-655-8251. Website: darienicehouse.com

During the winter, people can ice skate at Cherry Lawn Park and Tilley Pond Park if conditions allow. The ice depth is tested regularly and posted. Check with the police at 203-662-5300 or Parks & Rec at 203-656-7325.

Public Golf Courses

There are no public golf courses in Darien, but you can golf in Norwalk at the Oak Hills Golf Course (165 Fillow Street). Phone: 203-853-8400. Website: oakhillsgc.com

Darien Parks & Rec offers golf lessons. Phone: 203-656-7325.

Private Clubs

Country clubs include the Country Club of Darien (203655-9726/ccdarien.org), Wee Burn Country Club (203-6551477/weeburn.org), and Woodway Country Club (203-3221661/woodway.org).

Darien also is home to the Tokeneke Beach Club (203655-1481), Noroton Yacht Club (203-655-7686/norotonyc. org), Darien Boat Club (203-655-1927/darienboatclub.org), Middlesex Club (swimming and tennis; 203-325-3557/ middlesexclub.org), and the Ox Ridge Riding & Racquet Club (equestrian and squash; 203-655-2559/oxridge.com).

Arts&Culture!

Annual Special Events

A number of popular events occur annually in Darien, including the Chamber of Commerce’s Indoor Sidewalk Sales in January/February; The Depot Youth Center’s spelling bee, Darien High School Jazz Festival, and Darien Youth Commission’s “A Day to Create” arts festival in March; the Chamber’s annual Golf Outing and the town’s Memorial Day Parade in May; Beach Party & Family Fun Day, Darien Art Show, and Darien Historical Society’s Antiques & Garden Elements in June; VFW Post 6933’s Push-n-Pull Parade on July 4; Sidewalk Sale Days in July; Darien Road Race at Pear Tree Point Beach, which supports the Community Fund of Darien, and Darien Nature Center’s Chili Challenge in September; Darien EMS-Post 53’s Haunted House in late October; and the annual Grove Street Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting in early December. For more community events, check the Darien Times or its website, darientimes.com, darienlibrary.org, and darienct. gov. Activities and events are subject to change due to COVID-19 regulations and procedures; please contact each organization’s website to determine the status.

The Darien Arts Center

The Darien Arts Center (2 Renshaw Road) is dedicated to furthering education and entertainment through music,

dance, theater, and the visual arts. The center offers classes, workshops, performances, special events, and a summer camp. The office is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. The executive director is George Colabella. Phone: 203-6558683. Website: darienarts.org.

Local Theater Groups

DAC Stage presents plays and musicals at the Darien Arts Center’s Weatherstone Studio. DAC Stage welcomes those interested, with or without experience, to participate in the many on-stage and off-stage roles available. Phone: 203-655-8683. Participants in the Darien Community Association’s Theater Bus program attend Broadway shows. The group travels to New York City on luxury buses for Wednesday matinees. For information, visit dariendca.org and search for “Theater bus,” or call 203-655-9050.

Music Lessons

The Darien Arts Center offers one-on-one instruction as well as group classes for all ages. Phone: 203-655-8683. Website: darienarts.org

Piano, guitar and drum lessons for children, teens, and adults are available through Darien Parks and Recreation. Check the latest brochure at darienct.gov or call 203-656-7325.

Arts&Culture!

Local Singing Groups

The Blue Notes is a women’s singing group under the Darien Community Association. The group sings in four-part harmony with instrumental accompaniment. For information about auditioning, call 203-655-9050 or email info@dariendca.org.

The Fairfield County Chorale rehearses Monday evenings at 7:30 p.m. in the concert hall at Norwalk City Hall (135 East Ave., Norwalk). The group has been performing choral music for more than 50 years and is open to singers of high school age and up. Auditions are typically held after Monday night rehearsals. Phone: 203-858-3714. Email: info@fairfieldcountychorale. org. Website: fairfieldcountychorale.org

The Stamford Chorale performs classical to contemporary music. The more than 70-year-old organization puts on winter and spring concerts annually and also does musical outreach programs. The ensemble rehearses on Tuesday nights at 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation (20 Forest St., Stamford). Auditions aren’t required. Phone: 203-359-0659. Email: thestamfordchorale@gmail.com

Website: thestamfordchorale.org

Dancing Around Town

Round Hill Country Dances are traditional New England contra dances with live music and a caller. No experience or partner is necessary; the basics are taught. Dances take place from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month at the Stamford Senior Center (888 Washington Blvd., Stamford). General admission is $12. Phone: 203-372-3890.

Website: roundhill.net (sign up for weekly emails).

Also check out dance programs offered by the Darien Arts Center (darienarts.org) and Parks and Recreation (darienct.gov).

Local Art Gallery

The Geary Gallery (576 Boston Post Road) is a showcase for representational art. The gallery opened in 1984 as a full-service frame shop. After expanding three times over the next 10 years and taking over the whole first floor of its current location, the Geary Gallery was introduced. Today it comprises three gallery showrooms featuring more than 200 paintings and another 1,500 square-foot space that houses Accent Picture Framing. There is also a full oil painting and frame restoration business. Visitors can take a virtual gallery tour at gearygallery.com. Phone: 203-655-6633.

History Museum

The Bates-Scofield Homestead (45 Old Kings Highway North) is a restored classic New England saltbox circa 1736 that is owned by the Museum of Darien (formerly The Darien Historical Society). The house was built around a massive central chimney, large fireplace, and beehive oven. It features regional furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries.

New construction has joined the original barn to the house with a connecting building; it also contains a resource library, art galleries, and a gift shop. Tours are offered and event space rentals are available. The Darien Garden Club maintains an 18th-century style herb garden outside. Phone: 203-655-9233. Website: museumofdarien.org

Children&Teens!

Darien Youth Commission

The Darien Youth Commission comprises seven appointed members, a full-time youth director, and a Youth Advisory Committee with at least eight high school students. The commission produces a monthly calendar of children’s programs and activities that is distributed through elementary schools, the Darien Library, and sent to local media. The commission also sponsors a number of activities for young people. More details, including online registration links, can be found on the Youth Commission’s webpage at darienct.gov

Alicia Sillars is the youth director. Phone: 203-656-7326. Email: asillars@darienct.gov

The Depot Youth Center

The Depot Youth Center (25 Heights Road) is a drug-free and alcohol-free youth center run by and for students with an advisory committee and board of directors. The center opened in 1990, becoming the first collaborative youth center in the nation. Here, youth “develop leadership,

planning, and decision-making skills, interact with people of different backgrounds, have access adult role models, and serve as community assets.” The Depot has a dance floor, full kitchen, recreation room, and outdoor basketball courts.

Hours for students are Monday through Thursday from 3–8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 7–11 p.m. when schools are open. Events are planned throughout the school year. Phone: 203-655-0812. Email: info@dariendepot.com. Website: dariendepot.com

Darien Safe Rides

Darien Safe Rides, established in 1982, was the first Safe Rides program in the country. It offers free and confidential rides for high school students Friday and Saturday nights from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. during the school year and when The Depot is open. The program is overseen by the town’s Youth Commission and adult volunteers are always needed. Phone: 203-655-6551. Email: saferidesdarien@gmail.com

Local Day Care

Noroton Presbyterian Child Care (2011 Post Road) is a licensed day care center offered through the Noroton Presbyterian Church. Registration is open to children ages 3 months through 5 years. Beth Aparicio is the director. Phone: 203-309-5605. Website: npchildcare.com

First Congregational Church (14 Brookside Road) offers child care services for children ages 2 to 5 years old. Krista Guarini is the director. Phone: 203-655-3150. Website: fccnurseryschool.org

Connecticut 2-1-1 Child Care maintains current listings of all state-licensed facilities in Connecticut. Child care counselors will help parents assess the quality of different programs. Phone: 211 or 800-505-1000. Website: 211childcare.org

Youth & Family Support Programs

An acronym for Teen Options, TOPS offers drug-free and alcohol-free social activities for Darien’s middle school students. There are organized, chaperoned events for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. Registration forms are available in the Youth Commission’s Office in Town Hall or online at darienct.gov. Phone: 203-656-7326.

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

The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut (03 West Broad St., Stamford) is a nonprofit outpatient mental health center for children and teens who suffer psychological, behavioral, developmental, social, or family problems. The clinic serves Darien families and is open weekdays with evening hours available. Phone: 203-324-6127. Website: childguidancect.org.

The center also offers an Emergency Mobile Crisis Service that provides immediate mental health assessments and stabilization services for children and adolescents experiencing serious psychiatric symptoms or severe reactions to a recent traumatic event. The service is available 24/7. Phone: 203-323-9797.

The Den for Grieving Kids is a grief support group offered through Family Center Services. Phone: 203-655-4693. Website: familycenters.org

Children &Teens!

Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts

Darien Scouting provides youth ages 7 to 18 with fun, outdoor adventure while teaching them positive values, teamwork, citizenship, and leadership skills. Chartered by the Andrew Shaw Memorial Trust, the program has been benefitting Darien youth and the entire community for more than 100 years. In 2019, girls were welcomed into Boy Scouts of America nationally under Scouts BSA.

Darien’s program now includes Cub Scout packs for boys and girls ages 7–11, separate Scout troops for boys and girls ages 11–18, and a co-ed STEM Venture Crew for high school boys and girls who develop and teach programs focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Meetings are held at the Scout Cabin at (140 West Ave.). Website: darienscouts.org

Darien Girl Scouts have also been active in town for more than 100 years. Programs for girls in grades K-12 promote compassion, courage, confidence, character, leadership, entrepreneurship, and active citizenship through activities in community service, camping, and working towards badges, awards, and Journeys. Website: gsofct.org

Local Programs & Summer Camps

The Youth Commission runs a summer camp for children entering first through sixth grade, with sessions at different locations in town. Phone: 203-656-7326.

The Darien Arts Center runs dance, visual arts, and music programs. Phone: 203-655-8683.

The Darien Nature Center offers seven weeks of summer programs for children ages 2-7 with an emphasis on nature and science. Phone: 203-655-7459. Website: dariennaturecenter.org

The Darien YMCA (2420 Post Road) offers summer camping programs for pre-school through school-age children. Activities include swimming, sailing and canoeing, arts and crafts, music and drama, sports, games, gymnastics, and group activities. There is also a swim and sail camp for special needs children. Although Y membership is not required, members get priority registration. Phone: 203-655-8228. Website: darien-ymca.org

There is a large offering of summer programs for all ages at the Darien Arts Center focused on dance, visual arts, theater, music, and martial arts. Phone: 203-655-8683. Website: darienarts.org

Methodist Family Center Preschool offers a summer camp program. Phone: 203-655-7407.

Museum of Darien runs a summer camp. Phone: 203-6559233. Website: museumofdarien.org

Blue Wave Baseball offers summer camps for children entering first through ninth grade. Visit dybs.org or check the public schools’ summer school catalog online at dariensummerschool.com

The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk offers a summer fun program for children from June to August. Phone: 203-6552535. Website: ywcadn.org

Camp Playland offers boys and girls ages 3–14 a fun-filled, instructional summer on an 18-acre campus in New Canaan. Transportation is provided. Phone: 203-966-2937. Email: info@campplayland.com. Website: campplaylandofnewcanaan.com.

Youth Sports Organizations

Darien Parks and Recreation offers many youth programs, including Future Stars Basketball program for boys and girls, instructional soccer programs for children of all ages, golf lessons, swimming lessons, tennis lessons, paddle tennis lessons, baseball, horsemanship clinics and camps, and Future Stars Cheerleading. Call 203-656-7325 or go to the Spring & Summer brochure on the Parks & Rec’s webpage at darienct.gov.

The Darien YMCA has programs and teams for youth and children in soccer, basketball, tennis, gymnastics, and field hockey. The sailing program offers beginner lessons to children ages 7–12. The Piranhas are the YMCA’s competitive swimming team for children and teens. Phone: 203-6558228. Website: darien-ymca.org

Darien Little League is open to boys and girls ages 8–11. Registration takes place in mid-winter. Darien Youth Softball is open to boys and girls ages 8–14. There’s also t-ball and first- and second-grade baseball and softball programs. Website: dybs.org

The Challenger Division of Darien Little League is for physically- and developmentally-challenged children. Look for the Challenger tab at dybs.org for details.

The Darien Babe Ruth League is for players ages 13–18. There’s a separate section at dybs.org with details.

The Fairfield County Football League offers tackle and flag programs for boys and girls in Darien. Website: fairfieldcountyfootball.org

Darien Youth Lacrosse has programs for boys and girls, from beginner to more seasoned players. There are spring games and summer camps. Website: dylax.com

The Darien Youth Hockey Association program is hosted at the Darien Ice Rink for boys and girls. Seasons run from October through March, with clinics and travel team tryouts in September. Website: dyha.com

The Darien Skating School and Darien Hockey Camp are both based at the Darien Ice House. Phone: 203-655-8251. Website: darienicehouse.com

The Darien Soccer Association offers programs for children in grades K–8 as well as a varsity level. Website: dariensoccer.org

The Darien Junior Sailing Team offers programs for novice to advanced-level junior sailors at Weed Beach, including instruction in optimist sailboats for sailors ages 8–14 and Club 420s for high-school age sailors. Website: leagueathletics.com

Schools!

Board of Education

Darien’s Board of Education proposes annual operating and capital budgets to effectively run the Darien Public Schools. Additionally, the board oversees expenditures, manages policies, hires the superintendent, approves administrative hires, adopts curriculum, negotiates staff contracts, and hears public comment.

The board generally meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the Board of Education meeting room at 35 Leroy Ave. unless otherwise noted. The meeting schedule and agendas are posted at darienps.org.

Darien Public Schools

The Darien Public Schools’ administrative offices are located at 35 Leroy Ave. and open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: 203-656-7400. Website: darienps.org

Alan Addley (aaddley@darienps.org) is the Superintendent of Schools, Christopher Tranberg (ctranberg@darienps.org) is the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, and Shirley Klein (shklein@darienps.org) is the Assistant Superintendent of Special Education and Student Services.

Central office administrators can be reached at 203-656-7467. The district also has directors of athletics; facilities; finance and operations; food services; special education; early childhood;

human resources; information technology; instructional technology; elementary education; and music. In addition, content area department chairs support teaching and learning in math, science, social studies, world language, and special education.

■ Darien High School 80 High School Lane

Ellen Dunn, Principal

Phone: 203-655-3981 ; Website: dhs.darienps.org

Hours: 7:40 a.m. to 2:17 p.m.

■ Middlesex Middle School 204 Hollow Tree Ridge Road

Karolyn Rodriguez, Principal

Phone: 203-655-2518; Website: mms.darienps.org

Hours: 7:57 a.m. to 2:22 p.m.

■ Hindley Elementary School 10 Nearwater Lane

Keri Snowden, Principal

Phone: 203-655-1323; Website: hin.darienps.org

Hours: 8:25 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.

■ Holmes Elementary School 18 Hoyt St.

Paula Bleakely, Principal

Phone: 203-353-4371; Website: hol.darienps.org

Hours: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

■ Ox Ridge Elementary School 395 Mansfield Ave.

Luke Forshaw, Principal

Phone: 203-655-2579; Website: oxr.darienps.org

Hours: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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Schools!

■ Royle Elementary School 133 Mansfield Ave.

Natasha Torre, Interim Principal

Phone: 203-655-0044; Website: roy.darienps.org

Hours: 8:25 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.

■ Tokeneke Elementary School 7 Old Farm Road

Ryan Betts, Principal

Phone: 203-655-9666; Website: tok.darienps.org

Hours: 8:25 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.

Public School Enrollment

Darien’s total K–12 enrollment for the 2022–23 school year is 4,653 students. The town provides enrollment figures to the state annually based on October figures. There are 2,128 students enrolled in the elementary schools (grades K–5), 1,143 students enrolled in the middle school (grades 6–8), and 1,382 students enrolled in the high school (grades 9–12).

Darien’s total K–12 enrollment was 4,841 in 2010. Historical data has shown a fluctuating enrollment over the last six decades. Student enrollment was 2,825 students in 1951, but rose steadily to 5,156 in 1967. Enrollment stayed over 5,000 students from 1963 to 1974, but dropped steadily to 2,643 in 1990 before beginning a steady ascent until the more recent decline.

Standardized Testing

Darien students consistently have among the highest standardized test scores in the state, and the Darien Public Schools is rated extremely high in assessments when compared to other school districts. The school system has won awards and received much recognition through the years, such as Darien High being rated the state’s No. 1 high school in 2017–18 by SchoolDigger.com, a school performance data website. Recently, Darien High School was ranked No. 1 in the state of Connecticut by U.S. News, and recognized as a Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation.

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

According to a 2020–2021 state report, Darien spent $22,838 per pupil compared to a statewide average of $20,740 and had a 98.5 percent graduation rate.

In 2014, Darien schools began participating in the Smarter Balanced assessment for students in grades 3–8. This electronic assessment aligns with the Connecticut Core State Standards and tests students in the areas of English Language Arts and mathematics. Students in grade 11 participate in the Connecticut SAT School Day assessment. In addition, 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 are administered at federally-designated grade levels.

Smarter Balanced: For the 2020–2021 school year, 80 percent of Darien students met or surpassed the desired achievement level (scoring at Level 3 or above) in ELA while 78 percent met or surpassed the desired achievement level in math.

CT SAT School Day: For the 2020–21 academic year, 89.9 percent of Darien test-takers scored at the desired achievement level or above in ELA while 76.5 percent scored at the desired achievement level in math.

SAT scores: For 2021, Darien High School seniors outperformed their peers in DRG-A on SAT tests. The average score for Darien test-takers was 617 in math and 611 in reading and writing compared to the state average of 527 in math and 545 in reading and writing.

ACT scores: Darien High students also performed well on the American College Test (ACT) in 2021. That year, Darien students recorded a composite ACT score of 28.5. ACT tests cover English, math, reading, and science.

Registering a Child for School

To attend kindergarten, children must be 5 years old by Jan. 1. Registration takes place at the elementary schools on designated days in late January and early February. Parents who do not receive a registration packet in the mail should call the secretary of the school their child will attend. All registration forms are available on the district’s website, darienps.org

Parents must bring their child’s birth certificate, most recent health evaluation, immunization record, pertinent medical records, and three forms of proof of residency (driver’s license; mortgage statement, deed, or signed lease/rental agreement; utility bill, etc.).

For older children, contact the school they will be attending and speak to the school secretary. Sign-up forms are available online at darienps.org under the “District Information” tab.

Transfer students will need proof of residency, a birth certificate, immunization records, school transcripts, and a physical exam.

Athletics & Extracurricular Activities

Darien High School has athletic teams in multiple sports at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshman levels. The high school’s colors are blue and white and the teams are known as the Blue Wave. According to the district, more than 70 percent of students participate in at least one sport each year.

Fall: Cheerleading, boys and girls cross country, field hockey, football, boys and girls soccer, girls swim/dive, boys golf, and girls volleyball.

Winter: Boys and girls basketball, cheerleading, girls gymnastics, boys and girls ice hockey, boys and girls indoor track, skiing, squash, boys swim/dive, and wrestling.

Spring: Baseball, girls golf, boys and girls lacrosse, boys and girls outdoor track, boys and girls rugby, sailing, softball, boys and girls tennis, and boys volleyball.

Darien High also offers dozens of extracurricular clubs and activities covering a wide range of students’ interests, such as animal welfare, art, computers, dance, debate team, environment, film, fishing, foreign cultures and languages, Gay Straight Alliance, literary magazine, music (band, orchestra, singing), Model U.N. Club, robotics, ski and snowboarding, student government, student newspaper, technology, theater, writing, ultimate Frisbee, video production writing, and yearbook.

Middlesex Middle School has drama, music, intramural sports, student government, student newspaper, quiz bowl, robotics, and yearbook.

School Cancellations & Delays

The school district says it will make every effort to decide no later than 5:30 a.m. if a school day is canceled or delayed. Parents may check darienps.org for announcements. If school is delayed, each school’s start time could be pushed back by two hours.

Parents may sign up for email notification or text alerts via an ASPEN account. For email notifications, you can also register at ctweather.com. SchoolMessenger is a service that provides email, voice, and text communication to the community. Information can be found at schoolmessenger.com/tm

school holidays & vacations

2023–2024

Last Day of School '22 – '23 JUN 13

First Day of School ............................. AUG 28

Labor Day SEP 4

Yom Kippur

Thanksgiving

Holiday Recess

Martin

Presidents Day/February Recess

Good Friday ......................................

Spring Recess

Memorial Day

Last

“O eringhelpandsanctuarysince1985.”

Schools!

Special Education Resources

The district’s Special Education and Student Services Department provides educational programs, related services, consultant services, and transportation for students with learning differences. Parents who wish to access additional information regarding special education supports and services should contact the department or visit darienps.org/ departments/special-education

Darien Special Education Parent Advisory Committee is an independent organization of parent volunteers “committed to open communication and effective collaboration between the families of our community and the Darien Public Schools,” according to the group’s website. The committee, which consists of representatives from each school, meets monthly to discuss district special education practices. The committee plans public meetings on best practices in areas such as literacy, dyslexia, ADHD, autism, assistive technology, and inclusion. Members work with principals and parent-teacher organization representatives to provide a forum for parent input. Website: dariensepac.wordpress.com

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

Early Learning Program

Darien Public Schools’ Early Learning Program is an integrated preschool for children ages 3 and 4. The play-based learning environments provide daily opportunities for preschool children to be purposeful, creative, inquisitive, flexible, and reflective. As

a program designed to meet the needs of all learners, children in these diverse classrooms develop empathy toward others and an appreciation of differences. Families are critical partners in the support of children’s growth and development. ELP has classrooms at Ox Ridge, Royle, and Tokeneke elementary schools. Laura Straiton is the director (203-656-7472/lstraiton@ darienps.org). Online registration is available at darienps.org/ departments/early-learning-program-elp

Darien Summer School & Enrichment

The Darien Summer School & Enrichment program runs this year from June 25 through July 28. Scores of classes are offered for pre-K through grade 12, with a couple thousand students enrolled each summer. Sports of all types are offered along with fun, academic activities. Most of the classes are held at Darien High School. Access the catalog online at dariensummerschool.com. Phone: 203-656-7467 (August through June) and 203-655-3981, ext. 2496 (when in session).

Parent-Teacher Organizations

Each of Darien’s schools has an active parent-teacher organization. Call the individual school to find out who the officers are or visit the individual school’s website for links to the parent associations. The Council of Darien School Parents website (cdsp.darien.org) has links to all the PTOs. The council functions as an umbrella organization for the PTOs. Each PTO meets regularly to share news about their school and works to promote understanding and communication among parents, the schools, and the school board.

Clubs & Organizations!

Local Volunteer Organizations

Many organizations and community groups in Darien rely on volunteers. Among them are Darien TV-79 and its advisory committee; Darien Arts Center (203-655-8683/darienarts. org); Darien Library (203-655-1234/darienlibrary.org); Darien Senior Programs at Mather Center (203-656-7455/darienct. gov); Darien EMS-Post 53 (203-655-8989/post53.info); Darien Fire Department (203-655-1216/darienfire.org);

Noroton Fire Department (203-655-0653/norotonfd.org);

Noroton Heights Fire Department (203-655-1033/nhfd.us);

Person-to-Person (203-655-0048/p2p.darien.org); American Red Cross (redcross.org/ct); and Shepherds, a nondenominational nonprofit that connects with disadvantaged high school youth in Connecticut’s inner cities and seeks mentors to serve as positive role models (203-367-4273/ shepherdsmentors.org).

United Way of Western Connecticut (1150 Summer St., Stamford) can help match people willing to volunteer with organizations that need them. Phone: 203-348-7711. Website: uwwesternct.org

Darien Community Association

The Darien Community Association (274 Middlesex Road) is a nonprofit organization that provides a broad array of educational, cultural, and social programs. Its mission is to enrich the community through philanthropy and outreach with a wide variety of educational, social, and cultural programs, and provide scholarships to Darien High School graduates. The DCA Thrift Shop accepts donated items and sells them at discounted prices, helping to fund these scholarships. Meadowlands, the DCA’s historic home, is also a venue for weddings and events. Phone: 203-655-9050.

Website: dariendca.org

Clubs & Organizations!

Local Clubs & Social Groups

The Darien Lions Club, established in 1971, raises funds to assist visually impaired individuals, the hearing impaired, and others in need. The Lions sponsor events such as the Fourth of July Parade, a Halloween party, Candy Day, and pancake breakfasts. The Lions have raised money to find a cure for macular degeneration in addition to supporting organizations close to home, including Darien EMS-Post 53. The club meets twice a month from September through June; those planning to attend are asked to check the calendar on the organization’s website, darienlions.org.

The Rotary Club of Darien supports the Darien Beautification Commission, Little League, youth hockey teams, and the Junior Achievement program at Darien High School; it also awards scholarships to local high school students. The club is a chapter of Rotary International, which promotes humanitarian activities worldwide. The club meets every Thursday from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. at The Goose. Membership is based on referrals. Phone: 203-656-2600. Website: rotary.darien.org

The Piedmont Club (152 Hecker Ave.) is a social club for those of Italian descent and through marriage. The Piedmont Associates Inc. was founded as the Società Umberto Principe

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di Piemonte Inc. in 1916. The clubhouse was built in 1923 and then moved to its current location in 1954 due to the construction of I-95. The clubhouse can be rented for special events. Phone: 203-655-7884. Website: piedmontclub.org

Museum of Darien (formerly The Darien Historical Society)

The Museum of Darien collects and preserves materials of local historical value. It also educates the community about its heritage through art and architecture, oral remembrances, and public programs.

The group also maintains the 1827 Scofield Barn Exhibit Hall, and the Darien Historical Archives and Resource Library. The website has membership information (including a digital brochure), a staff directory with email addresses, and details on collections.

The museum has offices at the Bates-Scofield House Museum (45 Old Kings Highway North). It is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 3 p.m. A $5 donation is suggested for admission; children 6 and under as well as members are admitted free. Group tours are available in advance by appointment. Phone: 203-655-9233. Website: museumofdarien.org.

Clubs & Organizations!

The Mather Homestead

The Mather Homestead of Darien was built in 1778 by Joseph Mather, son of Moses Mather, the first minister of the First Congregational Church of Darien and a fiery patriot and advocate of the Revolutionary cause. The Homestead was enjoyed by the Mather family for seven generations until 2017, when it was donated to The Mather Homestead Foundation thanks to the generosity of the McPherson family. The Homestead's most famous Mather was Stephen Tyng Mather, who owned the home from 1906 to 1930. He was an avid conservationist and the first director of our National Park Service. Website: matherhomestead.org

Local Men’s Organizations

The Darien Men’s Association is open to all men residing in Darien and surrounding towns aged 50 or over. The DMA meets weekly on most Wednesdays from early September to early June at the DCA Meadowlands Estate. Each meeting features a program speaker, whose topics vary greatly. If you are interested in the activities and objectives of the DMA and want to join, call 203-656-2932, email dariendma@gmail. com, or visit dariendma.org

Darien’s Masonic Club is Ivanhoe Lodge No. 107, which serves the community and area’s Freemasons. The nonprofit organization is open to all men 21 or over. The group meets twice a month (except July and August) at the Masonic Temple at 354 Post Road. Phone: 203-655-2040. Email: darienmasonicclub@gmail.com. Facebook: facebook.com/IvanhoeLodge

Local Women’s Organizations

The Darien League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that helps each citizen have a voice in government. The league publishes information about local government, distributes nonpartisan information on candidates and issues at election time, assists with voter registration, and sponsors candidates’ forums. Membership is open to men and women of voting age and up. Website: lwv.darien.org

The DCA Women’s Luncheons are social gatherings for women and men offering a variety of speakers, from authors to specialists on travel, theater, gardening, entertaining, home décor, and more. The catered lunches are held monthly from October to June on the first Tuesday of the month at the Darien Community Association. Phone: 203-655-9050. Website: dariendca.org

The Junior League of Stamford-Norwalk (748 Post Road) is a nonprofit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The group’s purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Phone: 203-655-4662. Website: jlsn.org

Darien is home to the Good Wife’s River Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The group is involved with programs and activities that promote education and patriotism, support veterans, and preserve early Ameri-

can history. The local chapter collects money for wreaths to decorate the graves in Darien’s Spring Grove Veterans’ Cemetery. DAR membership is open to any woman over the age of 18 who can trace her direct lineage to a patriot who fought or gave material aid to the cause of American independence during the Revolutionary War. Website: dar.org

Parenting Groups

YWCA Parent Awareness hosts speakers, panel discussions, and experts in the field of child rearing. Topics cover children in preschool through high school. All programs are free. Phone: 203-655-2535. Website: ywcadn.org

Local Environmental Groups

The primary goal of the Darien Land Trust is to permanently preserve and protect open space in town. The Land Trust owns or has conservation easements on more than 200 acres in Darien. For information, call Executive Director Elizabeth Harmon at 203-655-4148 or email elizabethgharmon@darienlandtrust.org. Website: darienlandtrust.org

The Darien Environmental Group educates people about ways they can change their consumer and lifestyle habits to benefit the environment, including programs for elementary school students. The nonprofit was founded in 1990. Email: deg06820@gmail.com. Website: grassrootsfund.org/groups/ darien-environmental-group

The goals of the Tree Conservancy of Darien are to educate the community about the value of trees and their care, identify and revitalize significant heritage trees in town, maintain a stewardship program for the care of existing trees, and build partnerships to achieve conservancy goals.

Established in 2010, the conservancy has planted hundreds of trees and shrubs, held tree sales and Celebration of Trees photo contests, established a Give-A-Tree program, co-sponsored educational lectures, and participated in several educational “green” events. Email: info@treeconservancyofdarien.org. Website: treeconservancyofdarien.org

Gardening Organizations

The Garden Club of Darien is part of the Garden Clubs of America. The website (gcdarien.org) has membership information, newsletters, photos, and details on floral design, herb gardens, and horticulture.

Cherry Lawn Community Gardens at Cherry Lawn Park offers gardeners of all levels the opportunity to cultivate and harvest organic herbs, flowers, and vegetables. Membership information is available through Darien Parks and Recreation. Phone: 203-656-7325. Website: cherrylawncommunitygardens.com

The DCA’s Greenhouse Group is a group of ladies who are passionate about plants. They propagate plants from seeds, cuttings, and plugs (small plants) for their annual plant sale in May. They also offer fall and spring gardening workshops that are free to the public, and a holiday craft workshop in December. Phone: 203-655-9050. Website: dariendca.org

Clubs & Organizations!

Veterans Organizations

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 6933 is located at 205 Noroton Ave. in Noroton Heights. The organization’s members are active in community life and make hospital visits to veterans’ hospitals and homes, delivering holiday greetings from Darien’s school children. The post sponsors Little League, Cub Scouts, and food drives for the town’s food pantry. The VFW also works with the town’s Monuments & Ceremonies Commission on organizing special events like the annual Veterans Day ceremony. Phone: 203-655-8552. Website: darienvfw.org

Honorbound Foundation (209 West Ave.) is a nonprofit organization that helps veterans and their families. The

Health Department

charity offers case-managed social services, emergency financial relief, advocacy, and assistance with services and equipment. Phone: 203-656-0003. Website: honorboundfoundation.org. Mail: P.O. Box 2465, Darien, CT 06820.

Genealogical Society

The Middlesex Genealogical Society provides guidance to people researching their family history. The society has established a genealogy section at the Darien Library. There are meetings and talks throughout the year. Website: mgsdarienct.org. Mail: P.O. Box 9, Darien, CT 06820.

Health!

The Darien Health Department is in Room 109 of Town Hall. The office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Phone: 203-656-7320.

The department is dedicated to promoting physical and mental health, preventing disease and injury, guarding against health threats, improving the environment, and enforcing the Connecticut Health Code and all local health ordinances. The department also handles requests for shellfishing permits, measures bacterial levels at the town’s two beaches, and maintains a beach hotline to let residents know if the beaches are open or closed.

The department’s webpage at darienct.gov offers a vast list of information on a variety of health issues, such as eating fish caught in Connecticut, tick management, radon gas measurements, disinfecting a private well, and prescription drug abuse.

David Knauf is the director of health. Email: dknauf@ darienct.gov. The office administrator is Michelle Varrone (mvarrone@darienct.gov). Dr. Tim Kenefick is the medical advisor. The environmental health specialist is Cedric Goo (cgoo@darienct.gov). The public health nurse is Paula Sutliffe (sutli e@darienct.gov). The sanitarian is Mindy Chambrelli (mchambrelli@darienct.gov).

Wellness Programs

The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk (49 Old Kings Highway North) offers a variety of programs throughout the year, including mammography screenings and bone density screenings. Phone: 203-655-2535. Website: ywcadn.org Stamford Hospital offers a wide range of health and wellness services. Phone: 877-233-WELL (9355). Website: stamfordhealth.org

The visiting nurse associations mentioned above also provide wellness programs.

Nursing Homes

Waveny LifeCare Network (3 Farm Road, New Canaan) is a nonprofit facility offering short- or long-term skilled nursing care and rehabilitation therapy. It also has a special long-term, skilled nursing care unit for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

Health!

Notre Dame Health and Rehabilitation Center (76 West Rock Road, Norwalk) is a nonprofit church-related facility with 60 beds sponsored by the Sisters of St Thomas-Villanova. Phone: 203-847-5893. Website: ndchrehab.org

There are a number of other nursing homes in Stamford and Norwalk. For a list and quality-related information, visit medicare.gov.

Health Care at Home

Right at Home (7 Tokeneke Road) is a home care agency that is licensed, bonded, and insured, and is available 24/7. It offers hourly care, live-ins, and many services ranging from companionship and homemaking to physical assistance and hygiene. Phone: 203-202-9488. Website: rightathome.net/darien

At Home In Darien (2 Renshaw Road) offers services that help residents remain at home in Darien. Phone: 203-6552227. Website: athomeindarien.org

Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County (22 Danbury Road, Wilton) is a nonprofit that offers: skilled nurses; home health aides; physical, occupational, and speech therapists; live-in help; shoppers; dietitians; companions; peer counselors; homemakers; medical social workers; a pre-hospice team; case managers; and caregivers that provide respite services. Phone: 800-898-HOME (4663). Email: info@ visitingnurse.net. Website: visitingnurse.net

Visiting Angels (1266 East Main St., Stamford), serving Darien and surrounding communities, provides in-home care and elder care services. Phone: 203-658-8800. Website: visitingangels.com/stamford/home

Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (RVNA) is a private, nonprofit organization that offers home care nurses, home rehabilitation, including physical and occupational therapists, home health aides, homemakers, companions, live-ins, social workers, paraprofessionals, medical alert services, wellness programs, flu clinics, and vaccines. Phone: 203-438-5555. Website: rvnahealth.org

Many of the visiting nurse associations listed above offer aides to assist with household chores. Family & Children’s Agency (9 Mott Ave., Norwalk) offers health aides, homemakers, and a home chore service. Phone: 203-855-8765.

Website: familyandchildrensagency.org

Programs for Caregivers

The Center for Hope (590 Boston Post Road) offers a support group for people caring for patients with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Call 203-655-4693.

The American Red Cross offers a family caregiving course that focuses on helping those who care for a loved one. Topics include assisting with personal care, positioning and helping your loved one move, general caregiving skills, home safety, and caring for a loved one with dementia. Phone: 877-287-3327. Website: redcross.org

Both Waveny LifeCare Network and The Village at Waveny Care Center offer respite stays to give caregivers the necessary time they need to rejuvenate, travel, etc.

Waveny will help assess the level of care (skilled nursing or assisted living) you need. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

The Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program is operated in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association Chapters of Connecticut and the Connecticut Area Agencies on Aging. Eligible families may apply for daytime or overnight respite care services. In Darien, call the Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging at 800-994-9422 or 203-3339288. Website: swcaa.org.

Hospice Services

Hospice is a community-based program that focuses on pain relief, symptom control, and comfort for terminally ill patients, allowing them to be cared for where they are most comfortable, usually at home. There are several services to choose from.

Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County 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 such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation; arranging for medical equipment and nutritional guidance; respite for caregivers; counseling and companionship; spiritual guidance; and grief support services. Phone: 800-898-HOME (4663). Website: visitingnurse.net

WavenyLifeCare Network also offers hospice care. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

CPR Classes

Darien EMS-Post 53 offers CPR training, first aid, and AED training. Classes for businesses, organizations, and individuals are available. Phone: 203-655-8980. Website: post53.info

CPR classes are offered occasionally at the YWCA of Darien/Norwalk. Phone: 203-655-2535. Website: ywcadn.org

The American Red Cross trains hundreds of people in CPR and first aid each year. For a schedule of classes, call 877-287-3327 or visit redcross.org

Stamford Hospital offers a variety of courses in CPR and first aid for the general public and healthcare professionals. Details at stamfordhospital.org or 877-233-WELL (9355).

Red Cross Blood Drives

The American Red Cross Connecticut Region, based in Farmington, collects blood on a regular basis. A person must be 17 or older, at least 110 pounds, and in good health to donate blood. Many questions will be asked in order to assure the donated blood will be safe. The entire process takes about an hour, including questions, donation, rest time, and snacks afterward. Phone: 877-287-3327. Website: redcross.org

Health!

Disposing of Unwanted Drugs & Medicine

Residents can dispose of unwanted, excess, and expired prescription and over-the-counter medications in “a safe, anonymous and secure drop-off box” in the lobby of the Darien Police Department (25 Hecker Ave.). The Darien Health Department has partnered with the Police Department to establish this permanent medication collection/disposal program. The effort is an attempt to help reduce the supply of drugs that can potentially harm children, youth, and adults while protecting the environment from the improper disposal of drugs. The Police Department’s lobby is open to the public 24 hours a day. Unwanted, expired, or unused medication can be dropped off free of charge with no questions asked. Do not bring liquid medications or needles.

Pharmacies

Grieb’s Pharmacy (1021 Post Road) is open every day (except Christmas) and has served the community since 1947. Hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Area-wide delivery and 10 percent senior discounts are available. Phone: 203-655-1000. Website: griebspharmacy.com

CVS Pharmacy (964 Post Road) is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 203-655-6335.

Walgreens Pharmacy (76 Heights Road) is open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Phone: 203-655-8904.

Flu Clinics

The town offers flu clinics in October and November. For dates, check for announcements in The Darien Times or call the Darien Health Department at 203-656-7320. Appointments can be made online at darienct.gov/health under the “Flu Prevention Program” tab and clicking the “Schedule Now” button.

Blood Pressure Tests

Free blood pressure screenings and health counseling is offered twice a month by the Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County at the Darien Senior Programs at Mather Center (2 Renshaw Road).

Health!

Finding Health Services

The Darien Human Services Department offers information and referrals for services available in the community. The staff has a wide range of experience and training in the areas of human services. The department’s webpage at darienct. gov includes a link to a human services brochure. Phone: 203-656-7328.

Infoline of Southwest Connecticut offers information and referrals on adult daycare, nutrition, home care, respite care, health services, mental health, social services, legal services, transportation, financial services, and other topics. Phone: 211. Website: 211.org

The Connecticut Self-Help Network, founded in 1981, is a statewide clearinghouse for all support groups 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 contact information for more than 1,000 national networks. The directory can be viewed online at theconsultationcenter.org. Phone: 203-7897645. Email: info@theconsultationcenter.org.

Counseling Services

Darien Human Services offers counseling support, initial assessments, and case management for families and individuals of all ages. The department’s director, Alexandra Ramsteck, is Darien’s municipal agent for the elderly, a state-required position for every town and city. Phone: 203-656-7328

The Center for Hope offers individual, family, and group counseling as well as support groups and therapy for elderly people, young adults, adolescents, and women. It is part of Family Centers Inc. Phone: 203-655-0547. Website: familycenters.org

Family & Children’s Agency offers family counseling. Phone: 203-855-8765. Website: familyandchildrensagency.org

Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, founded in 1916, offers family support services. The agency also provides mental health counseling services for adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Other counseling services include adoption and pregnancy. Phone: 203-416-1503. Website: ccfairfield.org

Jewish Family Service of Fairfield County offers family life education services that help strengthen individuals and families to deal with life’s challenges. Phone: 203-921-4161.

Website: ctjfs.org

The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut is a nonprofit mental health resource for area children and families, receiving referrals from schools, courts, human service agencies, and private physicians. Self-referrals are also encouraged. The center has psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and marriage and family therapists. It also offers a 24/7 Emergency Mobile Crisis Service, providing immediate mental health assessments and stabilization services for children and adolescents experiencing serious

psychiatric symptoms or severe reactions to a recent traumatic event. Phone: 203-324-6127. Website: childguidancect.org

Kids in Crisis offers crisis counseling, intervention, and emergency shelter for children up to age 17. Phone: 203-6611911. Website: kidsincrisis.org.

Substance Abuse Counseling

Liberation Programs in Norwalk offers comprehensive substance abuse prevention and treatment options that address the needs of youth, adults, and seniors at risk for abusing or currently abusing alcohol or drugs. Services include telephone consultations, assessment and intervention, individual and family counseling, drug testing, peer mentor groups, group therapy and parenting help, anger management, relapse prevention, detoxification, and residential programs. Phone: 203-851-2077. Website: liberationprograms.org

Silver Hill Hospital (208 Valley Road, New Canaan) has extensive programs for drug and alcohol abuse. Phone: 866-542-4455. Website: silverhillhospital.org

Family Centers Inc. (203-655-0547) and Family & Children’s Agency (203-855-8765) offer substance abuse counseling as well.

Support Groups

Many support groups are offered through Stamford Hospital, Norwalk Hospital, the Center for Hope, the YWCA, the American Cancer Society, the Family Centers’ Friendly Connections program, and others. Darien Senior Programs at Mather Center also has a diabetes support group.

Darien Human Services offers information and referral to support services in the community. You may also call Infoline at 211 or visit 211.org

Cancer Prevention

The American Cancer Society’s 24-hour cancer information line (800-ACS-2345) and website (cancer.org) can help people understand a cancer diagnosis and decide how to overcome it. The society provides free rides to and from cancer treatment, one-on-one personal support for breast cancer patients, and free wigs and beauty classes to help women with the side effects of treatment. The ACS Regional Center is at 38 Richards Ave. in Norwalk. Phone: 203-563-1506.

Autism Services

Friends of Autistic People, a nonprofit based in Greenwich, advocates appropriate services for the entire spectrum of an autistic adult’s life. It also offers parent support groups and education. Phone: 203-661-8510. Website: autisticadults.org

Health!

Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center of Stamford offers crisis intervention, counseling, advocacy, and education to help people break free from emotional, physical, or sexually abusive situations. The center maintains a 12-bed shelter. Phone: 203-588-9100. Hotline: 888-774-2900. Website: dvccct.org

The Rowan Center of Stamford offers free crisis counseling for victims of sexual assault and other support services. The center operates support groups as well. Phone: 203-3489346. Hotline: 888-999-5545. Website: therowmancenter.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

Mental Health Services

The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill provides resources and sponsors events throughout Connecticut. NAMI is the

nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for those affected by mental illness. Details on the NAMI Fairfield affiliate are available by calling 203-586-0826 or visiting namifairfield.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.

Alcoholics Anonymous

A number of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings take place in Darien and surrounding towns throughout the week. For AA information, call 866-783-7712 or visit ct-aa.org for a list of meeting locations, days, and times.

For meeting information about Al-Anon, which serves families of alcoholics, or Alateen, which helps young people affected by a drinking problem, call 888-825-2666, or visit ctalanon.org

Emergency Services!

When to Dial 911

Emergency calls, such as to report a fire, medical crisis, or police emergency like a home intruder or other life-threatening situation, should be made to 911. People should not call 911 to report road conditions or routine things like barking dogs. Direct routine police calls to 203-662-5300, or routine fire calls to the appropriate fire department listed below. Most 911 calls are answered at the Darien Police Department, including calls made from your car or the highway. A mobile 911 system enables dispatchers to track a cell phone caller’s location anywhere in the state.

Nearest Emergency Rooms

The nearest emergency rooms are at Stamford Hospital (30 Shelburne Road/203-276-1000), and Norwalk Hospital (34 Maple St./203-852-2160).

Ambulance Service & EMS Services in Town

Darien is served by Darien EMS-Post 53, headquartered on Ledge Road. The post is staffed by about 75 state-certified EMTs, including adult advisers and young adults. With three ambulances, it is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For routine matters, call 203-655-8980. Website: post53.info Facebook: facebook.com/DarienEMSPost53

The Darien Police and the post respond to all medical emergencies. Ambulances are accompanied by a paramedic fly-car when necessary. Additionally, Darien’s volunteer fire

departments respond to all motor vehicle accidents and whenever rescue extrication equipment is required.

Police officers receive emergency medical training, including CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators. For more than 40 years, Darien EMS rescue personnel have provided basic and advanced life support, including defibrillation, intravenous therapy, and the application of anti-shock garments.

When necessary, paramedic services are provided by the Stamford EMS to augment Darien’s crew. A paramedic can provide advanced cardiac life support, intravenous drug therapy, medication for breathing problems and diabetic reactions, external pacemakers, and advanced trauma care.

Darien EMS does not charge for basic life support calls. When a Stamford EMS paramedic is required, patients will receive a bill for paramedic service.

Support Local Emergency Responders

Darien EMS-Post 53 is supported financially by donations; the organization also relies on the generosity of the community. A food fair at Tilley Pond Park following the annual Memorial Day Parade is the organization’s major fundraiser. Donations may be sent to: Darien EMS, Box 2066, Darien, CT 06820. You can also make donations online.

The post welcomes new members, including students (memberships start as young as 14) and adults. Phone: 203-655-8980. Website: post53.info

Emergency Services!

Darien Police Department

Darien Police Department headquarters are at 25 Hecker Ave. The non-emergency number is 203-662-5300. For the records division, call 203-662-5320; for the detective division, call 203-662-5330. The chief of police is Donald Anderson.

Darien has very low violent and property crime rates, with no murders, manslaughter, or rapes reported in many years. FBI statistics show the town’s crime rate is well below the state’s crime rate.

The Police Department has 51 sworn officers supported by civilian employees, special officers, school crossing guards, and traffic agents. The department also has a highly trained Emergency Response Team and dive team.

Police patrol in marked and unmarked vehicles, on motorcycle, and on foot. Police also patrol the water in a twin-engine boat. Police cars and the boat are equipped with automatic external defibrillators. All patrol officers are trained at the MRT or EMT level. The Emergency Response Team is specially trained to deal with critical incidents such as high-risk search and arrest warrants, barricaded suspects, hostage situations, sniper activity, riot and crowd control, terrorist activities, and dignitary protection.

The website features crime reports that are also posted on Facebook and Twitter; you can even share crime tips online. Visitors are encouraged to check out the information about the detective, patrol, youth, and other divisions as well as all other services. Website: darienpolice.org.

Fingerprinting Services

The Police Department offers this service to Darien residents on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon. The police do not supply fingerprint cards; they must be obtained from your employer. Service is dependent on officer availability. Before going to the police station, call 203-662-5330. The fee is $15 per card; only personal checks made out to “Darien Police Department” are accepted.

Town Fire Departments

Darien is served by three volunteer fire departments: Darien, Noroton, and Noroton Heights.

The Darien Volunteer Fire Department is headquartered at 848 Boston Post Road. For routine matters, call 203-6551216. Founded in 1895, the department protects the eastern portion of Darien, covering about 45 percent of the town. The chief is Brian Francefort. Website: darienfire.org

The Noroton Volunteer Fire Department has been putting out fires since 1896. The firehouse is at 1873 Boston Post Road. For routine calls, call 203-655-0653. The fire chief is Brendan Keane. Website: norotonfd.com

Founded in 1903, Darien’s third and youngest fire department is the Noroton Heights Volunteer Fire Department (209 Noroton Ave.), which covers the Noroton Heights district. The routine phone number is 203-655-1033. The fire chief is Zachary McEwan. Website: norotonheightsfd.com

Becoming a Volunteer Firefighter

All three fire departments welcome new volunteers. The minimum age for membership ranges from 16 to 18 depending on the department. All members must live or work in town. Volunteer firefighters must partake in specific training programs and attend fire drills. For more information, call or stop by the firehouses for an application or visit their websites.

Fire Marshal

Robert Buch is Darien’s fire marshal, who has an office in Town Hall. The fire marshal works closely with Darien’s three fire departments. His office is also responsible for reviewing plans for all new construction, except for one- and two-family homes, and making construction and annual inspections. In addition, his duties include fire investigation; permits for blasting and flammable liquid tanks; certification of hazardous material transport vehicles; certification of nursery schools, day care centers, and convalescent homes; certification of all liquor permit premises; and fire prevention education programs. Phone at 203-656-7345. Email: bbuch@darientct.gov.

Registering a Burglar or Fire Alarm

Forms are available in the fire marshal’s office and online at darienct.gov/fm. There is no charge to register, but there is a $100 fine if your system activates without being registered.

Homeowners and business owners will be fined $100 for each and every false fire alarm. The ordinance applies to “any device for the purpose of detecting fires and emergencies and transmits a signal to a monitoring company that relays information to the Darien Emergency Communications Center, or produces a signal to which the police or fire departments are expected to respond.” Excluded are devices such as smoke alarms, which are designed to only alert people on the premises.

Automatic telephone dialing alarm systems that send messages directly to the Darien Emergency Communications Center are prohibited. Use of such a system will result in a $100 fine.

First Aid & CPR Classes in Town

Darien EMS-Post 53 offers American Heart Association certified courses in first aid, CPR, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Classes are offered throughout the year to Darien residents and other town personnel, including first responders and school and library staffs. For more information, email training@post53.org. The American Red Cross also offers training at its location on Leroy Avenue. Visit redcross.org

Town Emergency Management

Darien maintains an Office of Emergency Management in Room 117 of Town Hall (203-656-7345). Assistant Fire Marshal Marc McEwan (mmcewan@darienct.gov) is the town’s emergency management director.

Emergency Services!

The town subscribes to a notification system, CodeRED, that enables town leaders to initiate a mass calling to the community with information and steps they should take in case of an emergency. The system can target a small geographic area for local emergencies, or the entire town for large-scale disasters. The database includes listed phone numbers only available from a commercial source. Residents and businesses that use unlisted phone numbers, cell phones, or a voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) service can be included by registering online at darienct.gov, or in person at the Fire Marshal’s Office. The system can also notify email addresses and TTY/TDD devices for the hearing impaired.

The town has published a Preparedness Guide on the town’s website that offers information and tips on how to cope with all kinds of emergencies. Emergency information will also be broadcast on local websites, radio stations, and television stations covering Darien, including darientimes. com, News12 CT, and Darien Channel 79.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

The state’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection has a confidential Homeland Security Tip Line, which individuals can use if they have information pertaining to suspicious persons or actions associated with a potential terrorist threat. Call 866-HLS-TIPS (457-8477). You can also call the Darien Police Department.

Road Closures

Go to darientimes.com, follow twitter.com/darientimes, or check the town’s website or police department’s website for information on road closures

Poison Control Center

Dial 800-222-1222 to contact medical experts at a local poison control center. There is also a website, aapcc.org, for the American Association of Poison Control Centers. If fast medical assistance is needed in an emergency, dial 911 and describe the problem to the dispatcher.

Seniors!

Local Services for Seniors

The Department of Human Services is in Room 109 of Town Hall. It offers a variety of programs and services for seniors. Alexandra Ramsteck (aramsteck@darienct.gov) is the director. Phone: 203-656-7328. Website: darienct.gov/humanservices

The Commission on Aging is concerned with the needs of Darien’s seniors with regard to health, recreation, transportation, and economics.

At Home In Darien is a nonprofit agency that helps Darien seniors live independently, comfortably, and with dignity in their homes and the community as long as possible. The agency provides free services including transportation; information, advice, and agency referrals; volunteer services such as grocery shopping, home visits, driving, small chores, check-in calls, and seasonal services such as leaf raking; home safety evaluations; and social, cultural, and wellness programs and activities. Phone: 203-655-2227. Website: athomeindarien.org

Mather Community Center

Darien’s senior activities center, Darien Senior Programs, is located in the Mather Community Center (2 Renshaw Road). The center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Elizabeth Paris (eparis@darienct.gov) is the director. Phone: 203-656-7490.

The Mather Center provides senior citizens a location for town-sponsored programs and activities with the intent of promoting social interaction, health and wellness, recreation, and more. Hot lunch is served weekdays at noon. The cost is

$5 and reservations are required by 11:15 a.m. each day.

The center offers enrichment activities; health and wellness lectures; exercise classes; art classes; needlework, knitting, crocheting and quilting; language classes; discussion groups; writers workshop; bridge, pinochle, mahjong and bingo; monthly theme parties, assorted musical entertainment; woodshop repair program; blood pressure screenings; and caregiver educational support group. Learn more at the “Senior Center” webpage at darienct.gov

Senior Group

The Darien Senior Men’s Association is “dedicated to good fellowship, community service, and fun.” The group meets at the Meadowlands (274 Middlesex Road) on Wednesdays from 9:45 a.m. to noon, September through May. There is a program each week, and special events are held throughout the year. Activities include bowling, bridge, chess, computer, golf, investments, songsters, tennis/paddle, and ping-pong. Membership is open to men ages 55 and older in the Darien area. Website: dariendma.org

Senior Transportation Services

At Home In Darien operates two vehicles to transport seniors and the disabled to any destination in Darien, Norwalk, Stamford, and New Canaan, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To make a reservation, call 203-655-2227 (24-hour advance notice and a voluntary contribution are appreciated; $5 per round trip suggested). For service to other locations or at other times, or when you need a person to pick you up

Seniors!

from a medical appointment, call to request a volunteer driver. The nonprofit also has a half-price taxi voucher program for evening and weekend transportation. Website: athomeindarien.org/transportation

Easy Access serves disabled riders (who must be ADA certified) with curb-to-curb service within Darien, Norwalk, Stamford, Greenwich, and Westport. To be eligible, riders must live within three-quarters of a mile from a public bus stop (the Post Road in Darien). Norwalk Transit is the provider. Phone: 203-299-5180 (voice) or 203-299-5183 (TDD). Website: norwalktransit.com.

Support for Homebound Seniors

At Home In Darien’s volunteers can assist with grocery shopping, home visits for those seeking companionship, small chores around the home, check-in calls, and seasonal assistance such as leaf raking and snow shoveling. Phone: 203-655-2227. Website: athomeindarien.org

Catholic Charities’ Senior Nutrition Program serves Darien and area communities, providing meals for seniors unable to prepare their own food. A referral by a hospital, doctor, or social services agency is required. Phone: 203-324-6175. Website: ccfairfield.org/project/senior-nutrition-program

Meals on Wheels Association of America directs those wishing to get in touch with a senior nutrition program and home delivered meals to call Catholic Charities of Stamford (203-324-6175) or the Stamford Jewish Community Center (203-322-7900), which offers a congregate meal site.

Medical Equipment

The Loan Closet, coordinated by the Department of Human Services, provides free, short-term loan of convalescent equipment to Darien residents. This includes wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, and shower chairs. Phone: 203-656-7328. Website: darienct.gov/humanservices

Grieb’s Pharmacy (1021 Post Road) rents and sells wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches. Phone: 203-655-1000. griebspharmacy.com

Senior Housing Options

The Darien Housing Authority owns and operates The Royle (719 Post Road). Those interested in leasing a new home can reach out to management for more information and be put on the list to receive an application (once available). Phone: 203-655-0866. Email: dhadmin@imagineersllc. com. Website: theroyledarien.com

The Heights at Darien (24 Allen O’Neill Drive) provides 106 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments at the site of the former Allen O’Neill Homes. This new affordable housing development is the result of years of DHA effort, replacing 53 outdated units built in the 1950s. Phone: 203-655-0866. Website: theheightsdarien.com

All leasing related activities (i.e. application drop off/ mailing, interviews) are expected to occur at The Heights until The Royle is ready for occupancy.

New Canaan Inn is a retirement community for independent living at 73 Oenoke Ridge in New Canaan. It is an affiliate of Waveny LifeCare Network. Phone: 203-594-5450. Website: waveny.org.

The Southwest Connecticut Agency on Aging has a complete list of senior housing available in a 14-town region of southwestern Connecticut. Phone: 203-333-9288. Website: swcaa.org.

Assisted Living Facilities

Atria Darien (50 Ledge Road) offers housing choices from independent living to assisted living. It has apartments in a variety of floor plans and proximity to train service to New York City. Phone: 203-662-1090. Website: atriaseniorliving.com

Maplewood at Darien (599 Boston Post Road) has assisted living and memory care residential living in 66 apartments. Phone: 475-328-0677. Website: maplewoodseniorliving.com

The Residence at Selleck’s Woods (1 Parklands Drive) offers 102 apartments with independent living and assisted living, plus a memory care section. Phone: 203-871-0066. Website: lcbseniorliving com

The Village at Waveny Care Center (3 Farm Road, New Canaan) is an assisted living residence with 52 apartments for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of memory loss. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

Senior Health Care Assessments

Waveny LifeCare Network’s Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic offers assessment services to review an individual’s cognitive, psychological, social, medical, functional, and caregiver status. Phone: 203-594-5200. Website: waveny.org

Stamford Hospital offers many specialty services. Visit stamfordhealth.org and click on the “Services” tab for details. Phone: 203-276-1000.

The Center for Healthy Aging at Greenwich Hospital offers comprehensive aging assessments and other services. The hospital also has an Acute Care for the Elderly unit for older patients who need specialized attention during inpatient visits. Phone: 203-863-4374. Website: greenwichhosp.org

Yale-New Haven Hospital’s Dorothy Adler Geriatric Assessment Center evaluates patients with age-related problems that affect daily functioning. The hospital also has a geriatric psychiatry unit. Phone: 203-688-6361. Website: ynhh.org

Emergency Call List, Rent Rebates, & Energy Assistance

The Department of Human Services keeps a list of seniors and disabled individuals that are to be called prior to a storm or town-wide emergency. Calls are also made during and after such events to provide reassurance. Call 203-656-7328 to have your name added to the list.

Seniors!

The department also handles applications for the state’s renters rebate program for limited income seniors and disabled individuals, and the state’s energy assistance program that helps limited-income households with heating costs (gas, oil, and electric). Go to the “Human Services” webpage on the town’s website for eligibility details, or call 203-656-7328. Additional statewide information is available at 860-418-6377 or ct.gov/opm

Senior Services Resource Guide

The Department of Human Services publishes a Senior Resource Directory, which offers a list of local, state, and regional services. It is available at the department’s office in Town Hall and on their webpage at darienct.gov.

If you want to report the abuse or mistreatment of a senior citizen you may call the town’s municipal agent for the elderly (203-656-7328) or Protective Services for the Elderly (888-385-4225). Protective Services will check reports of neglect, abuse, exploitation, and/or abandonment. In case of an emergency, call 911.

Transportation!

Public Works

Darien’s Department of Public Works is responsible for building and maintaining the town’s roads, streets, bridges, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and other related infrastructure. The director is Edward Gentile (egentile@darienct.gov) and the assistant director is Darren Oustafine (doustafine@ darienct.gov). A team of 30 full-time and five part-time employees work together to provide residents with a broad range of services.

Those who wish to notify the department of an issue or concern may complete and submit a Citizen Service Request Form on its webpage at darienct.gov. Phone: 203-656-7346.

State roads are maintained by District 3 of the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Phone: 203-389-3100. Website: ct.gov/dot

Road Closures

You can check for local road closures by signing up for The Darien Times’ news alerts and tweets at darientimes. com. You can also check the town (darienct.gov) and Police Department’s (darienpolice.org) websites.

Train Stations

The Darien Train Station is on West Avenue and the Noroton Heights Train Station is on Noroton Avenue. They are both located on the New Haven Line of the Metro-NorthRailroad Travel time to Grand Central Terminal is about an hour from Darien and a few minutes less from Noroton Heights.

The travel fare to Grand Central is $15.25 for a one-way peak ticket and $11.50 for a one-way off-peak ticket. Seniors or disabled persons pay $7.50 one-way. A children’s ticket is $7.50 one-way peak and $5.75 off-peak. Fares are significantly higher when tickets are bought on the train. Commutation tickets are $335 per month and $107.25 per week; 10-trip tickets are $152.50 for peak and $97.75 for off-peak.

Both stations have self-service ticket machines to purchase tickets. The machines accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Tickets also can be purchased in advance with the

MTA eTix mobile ticketing app. Visit mta.info for more information as well as train schedules.

Amtrak trains can be boarded at the Stamford railroad station. For Amtrak information and schedules, call 800-8727245 or go to amtrak.com.

Parking Permits

Even though the town sells more permits than there are parking spaces, a long waiting list exists for both train stations. When a spot becomes available, the next person on the list moves up. The annual cost is $400. There are 775 permit and voucher spaces at the Noroton Heights station and 544 spaces available for the Darien station (including municipal lots on Leroy and Grove). For information, call 203-656-7330 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays or check the Railroad Station Parking webpage at darienct.gov

Limited daily parking spots are available at both stations and cost $4 per day. Parking is free in both train station lots on weekends and holidays, as well as in municipal lots.

DMV

The closest full-service Department of Motor Vehicles office 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 Darien Auto Center (1350 Post Road, 203-655-8203). 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.

Property Issues!

Online Services for Local Property Owners

Information on Darien properties, including assessment data and ownership, is available 24/7 by visiting the Town Assessor’s webpage on the town’s website (darienct.gov) and clicking on the Property Record Card Online link. An assessment appeals form can be found on the Board of Assessment Appeals and Town Assessor’s webpages.

Building Permits & Home Improvement

Most construction work requires a permit from the Building Department. This includes internal and external remodeling, enlarging, additions, changing the size of windows or adding bay windows, pools, new roofs, erecting a shed, enclosing a porch, erecting a large tent, installing a gas or wood-burning stove or fireplace, and new construction. What you need to do to obtain a permit, as well as current fees, are detailed on the department’s webpage at darienct.gov. Phone: 203-656-7347.

Building permit and zoning application forms cannot be posted online. These forms can be picked up at the Building Department or Planning and Zoning Department’s offices.

No permits are necessary to build a fence; however, the maximum allowable height is four feet in front, and six feet on the sides and back of the property. Although there are no required setbacks unless wetlands are nearby, it is recommended that any fence be placed six to 12 inches inside your property. There are specific regulations for corner properties. Eight-foot privacy fences are allowed for special situations. Different rules apply to fences being installed around a swimming pool.

Building inspectors can be reached at certain hours at 203-656-7347. Requests for inspections can be made via email to Office Administrator Lisa Mason (lmason@darienct.gov).

The zoning enforcement officer is Herve Hamon (hhamon@darienct.gov). Call 203-656-7351 to schedule an appointment during office hours.

The town’s Environmental Protection Commission serves as the local wetlands agency, regulating activity taking place within 50 feet of wetlands or watercourses, and within 100 feet of a named (major) watercourse. The wetlands enforcement officer is Richard Jacobson (rjacobson@darienct.gov), whose official title is environmental protection officer. Phone: 203-656-7351. Email: darienepc@darienct.gov

Purchase Darien’s Zoning Regulations

Planning and Zoning has a copious set of regulations that cover every regulated activity. It can be helpful for any renovation or construction project you may be thinking of, such as adding a porch, bay windows, swimming pool, fence, barn, etc. It can be downloaded from the office’s webpage at darienct.gov, or you may purchase a copy for $20. The regulations can be viewed at the P&Z office.

Other documents that can be viewed online or purchased are: Subdivision Regulations ($10); Inland Wetland and Watercourses Regulations ($10); Zoning Map ($25 color and $5 black-and-white); Inland Wetlands and Watercourses

Map ($25 color and $5 black-and-white); Town Plan of Conservation & Development ($50); and Aquifer Protection Area Regulations ($13).

Zoning Regulations & Applications

If you have submitted a formal application to the Planning and Zoning Commission or Zoning Board of Appeals, you must notify all owners of property within 100 feet. These notices must be sent by certified mail 10 to 20 days prior to the public hearing. The state allows the town 30 days to review a zoning permit application, although the department tries to work in as timely a manner as possible. The length of time depends primarily on how many applications are submitted.

Swimming Pool Requirements

Swimming pools and pool houses are among the most popular additions to homes in Darien. A pool must meet setback and coverage requirements. If it is within 50 feet of a wetland or watercourse or 100 feet of a named river or watercourse, it must be approved by the Environmental Protection Commission. Health, zoning, and building permits will also be required.

Coastal Flood Zones

Because Darien is right along the coastline with a number of rivers flowing through it, flood zones exist throughout town. Most susceptible to flooding are the areas along the coast, river corridors, and low-lying areas through which streams and brooks flow.

The town participates in a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) program that stipulates construction regulations to minimize flood damage to buildings and property. As a result, all property owners in Darien are eligible to buy private flood insurance at a subsidized rate.

Past storms have caused significant flooding in town and to that end, Darien created a Flood Mitigation Committee in 2007 to develop a comprehensive flood prevention strategy.

A map created by FEMA hangs in the Planning and Zoning office in Town Hall. Property owners are welcome to come in and look at the map to determine if they’re located in a flood-prone area. P&Z staff is not allowed to give that information over the phone; it is up to each individual to make that determination for themselves.

Well Water Safety

Checking the safety of well water is a homeowner’s responsibility. The Darien Health Department lists six entities that do private well testing: Aquatek Labs, Woodbridge, 203-389-1824; Greenwich Health Department Lab, 203-6227843; Complete Environmental Testing Inc., Stratford, 203-377-9952; South Norwalk Electric & Water, Wilton, 203-762-7884; Stamford Health Department Lab, 203-9774378; and York Analytical Lab, Stratford, 203-325-1371.

Property Issues!

If you have a private well that is subject to flooding during heavy and/or prolonged rainstorms, you may need to disinfect your well during such events. The Darien Health Department can advise you on how to do this. Website: darienhealth.com

Septic Tank Management

For septic tank management, contact a private pumping company. They will advise you on how often you should have your septic tank pumped. The Norwalk River Watershed Association offers a simple, non-technical brochure for homeowners on maintaining septic systems. It is available free online at norwalkriver.org/maintain-your-septic.

The Darien Health Department offers information on septic systems on its webpage. If your neighbor’s septic system is leaking onto your property, call the department at 203-656-7320.

Local Garbage Collection

If residents want garbage and recycling collection at their house, they must contract with a private licensed hauler. The following haulers provide service in the town of Darien: Alan Hyatt, 203-943-8649; City Carting & Recycling, 888-413-3344, customerservice@citycart.net; Darien Disposal Service, 203-323-0339, dariendisposal@optonline.net; Finocchio Bros., 203-987-5848, matt@finocchiobros.com; Tom Conte Garbage & Recycling, 203-662-9798, tcl-llc@att.net; Town & Country Carting, 203-322-1247, info@towndarct.com; and Winter Bros. Hauling of CT, 203-702-8944.

Darien Recycling & Refuse Center

The Darien Recycling & Refuse Center (126 Ledge Road), is open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. A yearly permit is required to use the facility. Permits expire on June 30. New permits are available starting June 1.

Permit fees are $120 for residents without garbage collection, and $40 residents with garbage collection. The transaction entitles a resident to two permits and the right to purchase a third permit for $40. Permits may be purchased online by existing customers only. The maximum number of permits per household is three. Replacement permits costs $40 each and are not prorated.

To receive a permit by mail or in person, have the following documentation available: copy of the vehicle’s or vehicles’ registration; proof of residency (driver’s license) if vehicle is not registered in Darien; a check made payable to the Town of Darien; if you have a refuse hauler, you must show proof (canceled check or recent invoice) if applicable; a stamped self-addressed envelope (if mailed). If you own property in Darien but do not reside here, you must prove ownership (a copy of your Darien property tax, mortgage, or utility bill).

All seniors 65 and over are entitled to one free permit per household; proof of age along with vehicle registration is required. All residents in the town’s abatement program (prequalified with the assessor’s office) are entitled to one free permit per household.

The center is open on some government holidays when other services are closed. For the remainder of 2023 it will be closed for the following holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas. The center’s webpage at darienct.gov offers a virtual tour of the site plus a map and recyclables brochure. It can be found under the Department of Public Works tab at darienct.gov.

Single-stream Recycling

Single-stream recycling started in 2012 and allows the mixing of all recyclables in one container and eliminates the need to separate paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, and metal. Single-stream recyclables must be loose, empty, and only lightly soiled. A detailed list of acceptable single-stream recyclables can be found on the Recycling & Refuse Center’s webpage.

Household Hazardous Waste Day

The town’s Household Hazardous Waste Day collection is always the first Saturday in June from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Noroton Heights Railroad Station. This collection is only for residents with such waste, not for commercial haulers. Darien also participates in a regional household hazardous waste collection program with the nearby towns of Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. Darien residents can drop off hazardous waste at these nearby towns on community hazardous waste disposal days.

For more information, visit the Department of Public Works webpage or call 203-656-7346. The schedule of hazardous waste collections in surrounding towns can also be found there.

Bulk Pickup Program

The town’s bulk pickup program used to be called the spring cleanup. Residents must fill out a citizen service request online. Each spring the town will pick up large household items by appointment only. Items must be placed along public roads by 7 a.m. on the day of the scheduled appointment. Please check the town’s website for pickup dates. Each residence is restricted to a single pickup per calendar year. Pickup items are limited to those too large for transport by a passenger car or SUV. For more information, visit the Department of Public Works webpage or call 203-656-7346.

Leaf & Holiday Tree Pickups

The Department of Public Works collects leaves packed in biodegradable paper bags from every public street from mid-November through early December. The leaves are then shipped to a composting facility. Loose leaves or bags containing lawn clippings, brush, or other materials will not be collected. Residents are limited to one pickup per year. Phone: 203-656-7346.

The department also picks up Christmas trees in January. Check for announcements in The Darien Times or darientimes.com, the public works page at darienct.gov, or call 203-656-7346.

Property Issues!

Fuel Oil Tanks

Due to the heavy clay content of soil in Darien, leaking tanks are fairly common. The Fire Marshal’s Office suggests replacing your tank if it is more than 15 years old.

Any and all 275-gallon tanks, no matter how old, must be removed as they were never approved for in-ground use. Any oil leakage is likely to enter wells, brooks, streams, and/or building foundations, possibly creating an environmental issue. You may incur significant financial liability associated with any remediation cost as a result of any such damage.

Registrar of Voters

To replace your home tank, you must obtain a permit from the Building Department, and will be subject to a final inspection. New tanks can be installed indoors or above ground. New installations will not be approved until the old tank is removed or properly abandoned and accepted by the fire marshal. You will need a permit from the Fire Marshal’s Office to do this.

Snow Shoveling

Homeowners and business owners whose property abuts public sidewalks are required to clear them of snow and ice.

Voting!

Darien’s Registrars of Voters’ Office registers new voters, updates the voter Registry List, follows election and voter-related legislation and voting laws, maintains the voting machines and equipment, trains election officials, and administers elections. They are elected to two-year terms.

The Democratic Registrar is Susan Gray (203-656-7319/ sgray@darienct.gov) and the Republican Registrar is Cara Gately (203-656-7301/cgately@darienct.gov).

The office is located in Room 106 of Town Hall and is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; it is closed on Fridays and holidays. Phone: 203-656-7316.

Voter Registration

Under state law, you must be age 18 years of age or older, a U.S. citizen, and a Darien resident to register to vote in the town. There is a statutory exception for 17-year-olds who will be 18 before the next occurring general election, and who fulfill the other legal requirements, which allows them to register and vote in that year’s primaries. The Registrars hold registration sessions annually at Darien High School to facilitate voter registration of eligible students.

New residents may register to vote as soon as they move to town. You may do so in person by visiting the Registrars of Voters’ Office. If closed, you may go to the Town Clerk’s Office. Bring a driver’s license or provide the last four digits of your Social Security number and some form of identification that shows Darien residency.

You may also register to vote by mail. Mail-in applications are available at the Registrars’ and Town Clerk’s offices, the Darien Library, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and other state agencies. They can also be obtained online at the Secretary of the State’s website (ct.gov/sots) and the Registrars’ webpage (darienct.gov/voting). Completed applications should be sent to the Darien Registrars of Voters at 2 Renshaw

Road, Darien CT 06820. Online voter registration is also an option through these websites, but proof of residency may be required at the polls.

College students who are temporarily living in another state may register to vote in Connecticut online or by filling out a Connecticut voter registration application and mailing it to the Darien Registrars of Voters.

Election Day Registration (EDR), or same-day registration, is available for general elections only. EDR for general elections is held at Town Hall. Check the Registrars’ webpage or the Secretary of the State’s website for general Connecticut voter registration cutoff dates.

Registered voters do not need to renew their voter registration status unless they have filed a change of address form with the U.S. Postal Service, or have not voted in a general election or primary in four years. In those cases, you must participate in a statewide canvass (conducted annually by the Registrars’ Office) to maintain your active voter registration status and ensure the accuracy of the Voter Registry List. You’ll receive a form that must be signed and returned. Non-compliance will place you on the Inactive Voters List. You can be removed from the list by filling out a new voter registration application prior to an election, or at the polls during an election.

Absentee Ballots

Any registered voter who will be out of town during all voting hours on a general election or primary day may cast an absentee ballot. Voters prevented from getting to the polls due to illness, disability, religious beliefs, or active service in the U.S. armed forces may also cast an absentee ballot.

Applications for absentee ballots are available to registered voters from the Town Clerk’s Office or on the town’s website throughout the year. After applications are received, ballots will be mailed to voters within the time frame permitted by state statute.

Voting!

Registered Voters

According to a November 2022 article published in The Darien Times, the town has nearly 15,000 registered voters. Of that, 34 percent are registered as Republicans while 25 percent are registered as Democrats. The majority of voters, about 38 percent, are not unaffiliated with any particular party.

Election Dates, Hours, & Locations

Regular elections take place every year on the Tuesday following the first Monday of November. Primary dates are announced by the Secretary of the State’s Office and will be posted on the Registrars’ webpage. Voting hours are from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Darien has six voting districts that vote at the following locations: Districts 1, 1-01, and 1-02 vote at the Board of Education offices (35 Leroy Ave.); District 2 votes at Town Hall (2 Renshaw Road); District 3 votes at the Noroton Heights Fire Department (209 Noroton Ave.); District 4 votes at Hindley School (10 Nearwater Lane); District 5 also votes at Town Hall; and District 6 votes at the Mather Center in Town Hall.

An alphabetical street listing for polling locations can be found at darienct.gov/voting

State House & Senate Districts

Darien encompasses two state House districts and two state Senate districts; state legislators are elected to two-year terms.

The 141st House District is represented by Republican Tracy Marra. The district also includes parts of Norwalk. Phone: 800-842-1423. Email: tracymarra@housegop.ct.gov. Write to her at Room 4200, Legislative Office Building, Hartford, CT 06106.

The 147th House District is represented by Democrat Matt Blumenthal. The district covers a smaller section of Darien and includes parts of Stamford. Phone: 800-842-8267. Email: matt.blumenthal@cga.ct.gov. Write to him at Room 4000, Legislative Office Building, Hartford, CT 06106.

The 25th Senate District is represented by Democrat Bob Duff. The district also includes Norwalk. Phone: 800-8421420. Email: bob.du @cga.ct.gov. Write to him at Room 3300, Legislative Office Building, Hartford, CT 06106.

The 27th Senate District is represented by Democrat Patricia Billie Miller. The district also includes Stamford. Phone: 800-240-8600. Email: patricia.miller@cga.ct.gov. Write to her at Room 3300, Legislative Office Building, Hartford, CT 06106.

Budget & Government!

Form of Government

Darien has a Board of Selectmen/Representative Town Meeting form of government.

Darien’s 44th First Selectman is Monica M. McNally, a Republican who was elected to her first term in November 2021. Her office is Room 202 in Town Hall and is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phone: 203-656-7338. Email: mmcnally@darienct.gov

The other members of the Board of Selectmen are Michael J. Burke, Marcy A. Minnick, Sarah B. Neumann, and Jon E. Zagrodzky. The first selectman and selectmen are all elected to two-year terms in odd-numbered years.

The Board of Selectmen is responsible for directing the administration and policy-making. An administrative officer appointed by the five-member board handles the town’s day-to-day operations. The town administrator is Kathleen Clarke Buch, a former finance director who took on her new role in 2015. Her office is in Room 202 in Town Hall and is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phone: 203-6567378. Email: kbuch@darienct.gov

Representative Town Meeting

At a traditional Town Meeting, all registered voters may attend and vote on issues. Darien switched to a Representative Town Meeting in 1951. The Representative Town Meeting, also known as RTM, comprises a limit of 100 members who represent six districts. They are elected to two-year terms without party affiliations, and members serve without compensation. The current moderator is Seth Morton.

As a legislative body, RTM members pass laws and ordinances and appropriate money. The RTM also approves collective bargaining contracts with town employees. The RTM generally meets six to 10 times a year; special meetings can be called from time to time.

All meetings begin at 8 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium unless otherwise noted. Meetings are open to the public and Darien residents may participate in them, but only RTM members can make motions or vote.

The following actions by the RTM are subject to overrule by referendum: passage of an ordinance, expenditure of $50,000 or more for any purpose, or the issuance of bonds. A referendum may be requested via petition.

Budget & Government!

Any registered voter in Darien is eligible to run for the RTM. Members may run for re-election. Half the membership is elected each year. For complete rules, call the town clerk at 203-656-7307 or go to the RTM webpage at darienct.gov, where a list of all RTM members by district is available.

Town Budget for 2023–24

On May 8, 2023, the Representative Town Meeting approved Darien’s 2023-24 budget. It approved a total of $165.5 million for town operations, including the Board of Education’s $114.4 million budget. The final approved mill rate was 17.61, 0.01 mills lower than the rate approved by the Board of Finance in April, though still a 2.21 percent increase from last year’s budget. (Source: The Darien Times)

Town Hall

Darien Town Hall is located at 2 Renshaw Road. Most town departments are open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed on weekends and holidays unless noted otherwise. Phone: 203-656-7300.

Looking at the Town’s Tax Base

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 new Grand List as of Oct. 1, 2022 is $8.9 billion. The state requires each municipality to undergo a revaluation every five years. Assessments from Oct. 1 are always reflected in tax bills sent out the following July 1.

Determining Tax Assessments & Payments

The Town Assessor’s Office is responsible for determining the assessed value of each home. The assessor is Anthony Homicki. His office is in Room 102 in Town Hall. Phone: 203-656-7310. Email: ahomicki@darienct.gov. An outside firm is brought in to assist the assessor in updating all taxable and exempt values in the year of a revaluation.

You may go to the Assessor’s Office and look at the field card for your property or access the property field card online. The card lists the particulars in figuring the valuation of your home. Copies of the card are available for a nominal charge.

Computers are available to the public to get real estate information outside the Assessor’s Office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The database is also available online at assessment.darienct.gov

Property owners who disagree with an assessment may appeal to the Board of Assessment Appeal. The three-member board meets in March to hear real estate and personal property appeals, and in September exclusively for motor vehicle appeals. Visit the Assessor’s Office the month before to request an appointment and get an application.

The Tax Collector’s Office handles the billing and collection of real estate, motor vehicle, personal property, and sewer taxes. The tax collector is Kathleen M. Larkins. Her office is in Room 104 in Town Hall. Phone: 203-656-7315. Email: klarkins@ darienct.gov.

Taxes are billed and collected semi-annually on real estate, and annually on motor vehicles and personal property. The motor vehicles category includes all registered motorized or non-motorized vehicles, such as cars, trucks, trailers, and motorcycles.

On April 6, 2023, the Darien Board of Finance approved a mill rate of 17.62.

Motor Vehicle Taxes

Car taxes are levied at $17.62, the same mill rate used for real estate taxes. The mill rate is applied to the current assessed value of the car. For every $1,000 in assessed value of your car, you will pay $17.62 in property taxes for the year. Appeals of vehicle assessments are heard in the fall.

The state Department of Motor Vehicles maintains vehicle ownership records, which it forwards to the Town Assessor’s Office. DMV will continue sending ownership reports to the town until a vehicle’s license plates are turned in. To remove a car from the tax roll, return the plates to a DMV office and take the DMV return receipt to the Assessor’s Office. Many DMV applications and services are available online at ct.gov/dmv

Town Clerk & Public Records

The Town Clerk’s Office is responsible for maintaining numerous records and documents, including land records, marriage licenses, birth records, burial and disinterment permits, cremation certificates, and dog licenses. It also handles liquor permit filings and absentee ballot voter registration The town clerk is Christa Sheehan McNamara. Phone: 203-656-7307. Email: cmcnamara@darienct.gov

Schedules for the Representative Town Meeting and various town boards and commissions are available in the Town Clerk’s Office. The public can also view marriage and death record indexes and get copies. Certified copies of a birth certificate will be issued only to the person in question or, in the case of a minor, their parents and grandparents. Be prepared to provide photo identification.

Judge of Probate

The Judge of Darien-New Canaan’s Probate Court, an elected position with a four-year term, is held by Hon. William P. Osterndorf. His office is in Room 204 of Town Hall, and is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Phone: 203-656-7342.

The 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, and grant name changes.

Budget & Government!

Obtaining a Marriage License

A marriage license must be obtained from the town where the ceremony will take place. Blood tests are not required. The fee is $50 and the license is good for 65 days. Call the town clerk for details at 203-656-7307. There’s a link to an online application to request a certified copy of a marriage license on the town clerk’s webpage at darienct.gov.

A justice of the peace may officiate a wedding within the state, and federal judges may officiate weddings anywhere. In addition to officiating weddings, their duties include administering oaths, and signing affidavits. Darien currently has 23 justices of the peace who serve four-year terms. The present term runs through Jan. 6, 2025.

Edward Axelrod

David Brown

Francisco Cardona

Kevin Cunningham

Janet Grogan

Dan Guller

Elizabeth Hall

Cathy Hauck

Ann-Gail Hult

Eric Joosten

Elisa Kristensen

David Maloof

Elizabeth Mason

Douglas McKay

Joseph Pankowski Jr.

Brian Rayhill

Volunteering for Town Government

If you are affiliated with a major political party, get in touch with your town party chair. For the Democratic Town Committee, contact Theresa Vogt. Website: dariendemocrats.com For the Republican Town Committee, contact Rachel Taylor. Website: darienrepublicans.com

Harbor Master

Ann Reed

Jayme Stevenson

Barbara Thorne

Arlene Tulacro

Georgia Von Schmidt

Morgan Whittier

Terrie Wood

Applying for a Passport

You may obtain a new passport or renew an expired one by filling out an application at the post office, or visiting state. gov/travel or uspassportonline.com. Applicants need a current passport-sized photo. To obtain a passport for the first time, a birth certificate with a raised seal is required. Applications must be signed before the issuing agent.

The Darien Post Office (30 Corbin Drive) processes passport applications and can also take photos, if needed. Passport service hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. It is recommended to fill out the paperwork in advance. Phone: 203-655-2595.

The U.S. State Department’s Connecticut Passport Agency is located at 850 Canal St. in Stamford. The agency is open weekdays by appointment only. Phone: 877-487-2778. Information regarding hours of operation, fees, and application instructions is available at travel.state.gov/passport. This is where you may obtain visas for foreign travel.

Boards & Commissions

Most town boards and commissions are appointed, but some are elected. Boards and commissions include the Advisory Board of Health, Advisory Committee on Coastal Waters, Architectural Review Board, Beautification Committee, Blight Review Board, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Education, Board of Finance, Board of Selectmen, Commission on Aging, Darien Housing Authority, Darien TV-79 Advisory Board, Environmental Protection Commission, Five-Mile River Commission, Human Services Commission, Monument and Ceremonies Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission, Police Commission, Sewer Commission, Town Pension Board, Youth Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Harbor Master John Keena oversees Darien’s harbors and coves, which are home to more than 300 light craft during boating season. His office also handles applications for mooring spaces in Darien waters. Mooring registration forms and renewals are available online at my.onlinemooring.com/ darienct. The wait list can be viewed at the previous web address and is also posted in the vestibule of Town Hall. Phone: 203-253-9519. Email: darienharbor@darienct.gov

Darien Housing Authority

The Darien Housing Authority oversees the management of the town’s public housing complexes. The Heights is a moderate rental housing complex for families that was recently rebuilt. The Royle is for low-income senior citizens. The authority is overseen by a five-member commission. The office is at 24 Allen O’Neill Drive. Phone: 203-655-0866. Email: dhadmin@imagineersllc.com

Building & Planning and Zoning

The Building Department oversees all building activity in Darien. It issues permits and makes inspections. You can obtain surveys and plot plans, permits issued by address, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, construction plans for permits issued after 1960, and a list of current construction from the department. Permit fees and details are available on the town’s website, darienct.gov

Michael Vitti is the chief building official. The office is in Room 212 in Town Hall. Inspectors are in the office weekdays from 8 – 10 a.m., 1– 2 p.m., and 4– 5:15 p.m. to answer questions and take calls. Inspections are conducted weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon and 2-4 p.m. Phone: 203-656-7347.

The Planning and Zoning Department serves the Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Environmental Protection Commission, and Architectural Review Board. The office is in Room 211 in Town Hall. Phone: 203656-7351.

The P&Z webpage includes links to application forms as well as permit forms and fees, the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development, a zoning map, zoning and subdivision regulations, a deed-restricted affordable housing map, and other information.

Budget & Government!

Finance Department

The Finance Department is responsible for accounts payable, payroll, pension administration, benefits administration, and debt measurement. The department also works with the town treasurer on cash management and investing town funds.

The department is headed by Finance Director Jennifer Charneski (jcharneski@darienct.gov). As the town’s chief fiscal officer, she is responsible for the accounting of all town funds as well as maintaining financial records and preparing financial reports. The department provides links to this data on the town’s website. The department is in Room 201 of Town Hall. Phone: 203-656-7375.

Legal Notices & Public Meetings

Legal notices are notifications concerning meetings and actions of local commissions and boards. Other important town government information such as proposed budgets, town ordinances, and invitations to bid on projects appear in legal notices. They can be found in the Town Clerk’s Office in Town Hall as well as The Darien Times.

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 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, with the Town Clerk’s Office within 72 hours of the meeting. Meetings are posted on a bulletin board near the entrance to Town Hall and can be accessed through an online calendar at darienct.gov

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 is discussing personnel matters, litigation strategy, or contract negotiations. To close a meeting and enter into “executive session,” the board must take a vote and the meeting’s closure must be supported by two-thirds of those present and voting. The commission cannot take any action while in executive session; it must return to open session before voting on any items.

Complaints may be filed with the state Freedom of Information office (18-20 Trinity St., Hartford). Phone: 860-566-5682. Website: ct.gov/foi

Religion!

Darien Places of Worship

■ Christ Community Church 988 Post Road, 203-442-6092/christcommunityct.org

■ Darien United Methodist Church 345 Middlesex Road, 203-655-1469

■ First Church of Christ, Scientist 2331 Post Road, 203-655-3407/christiansciencect.org/darien

■ First Congregational Church 14 Brookside Road, 203-655-0491/uccdarien.org

■ Noroton Presbyterian Church 2011 Post Road, 203-655-1451/noroton.church

■ St. John R.C. Church 1986 Post Road, 203-655-1145/stjohndarien.com

■ St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 1864 Post Road, 203-655-1456/saintlukesdarien.org

■ St. Thomas More R.C. Church 374 Middlesex Road, 203-655-3303/stmdarienct.org

■ Talmadge Hill Community Church 80 Hollow Tree Ridge Road, 203-966-2314/talmadgehill.org

Norwalk, New Canaan & Stamford Places of Worship

■ Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 682 South Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-5849

■ Rowayton United Methodist Church 5 Pennoyer St., Rowayton, 203-838-0049/rowaytonumc.org

■ St. John’s Lutheran Church 884 Newfield Ave., Stamford, 203-322-0066/stjohnelca.org

■ St. Michael’s Lutheran Church 5 Oenoke Ridge Road, New Canaan, 203-966-3913/stmichaelslutheran.org

■ Temple Shalom 259 Richards Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-0148/templeshalomweb.org

■ TempleSinai 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford, 203-322-1649/templesinaistamford.org

■ Unitarian Universalist Congregation 20 Forest St., Stamford, 203-348-0708/uustamford.org

■ United Church of Rowayton 210 Rowayton Ave., 203-866-1415/ucrowayton.org

■ Zion Lutheran Church 132 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, 203-327-7751

Business!

Darien Chamber of Commerce

The Darien Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization committed to taking a leadership role in supporting the business community and quality of life in town. The Chamber acts as a liaison between the business community as well as local, state, and federal governments. It notifies members of legislation that will directly affect business in Darien, offers educational and networking opportunities to help businesses grow, creates a regional awareness of the business community, and promotes the town to prospective residents.

The Chamber provides a Member Directory of shops, restaurants, retailers, and other local businesses, which can be found at darienctchamber.com/member-directory.

The Chamber sponsors and coordinates scholarship awards and community events such as Darien Taste of the Town, Regional Chamber Expo, Darien Goes Green, Darien Sidewalk Sales, and Holiday Traditions. The Gift Certificates program is a popular gift idea that promote shopping and dining locally. They can be purchased at DR Bank during normal business hours; current participating merchants can be found at darienctchamber.com/gift-certificates.

The executive director is Kesti Aysseh and the chairman is Bill Jensen. Office hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Phone: 203-655-3600. Website: darienctchamber.com

Major Employers

According to the Connecticut Economic Resource Center, the top employers in Darien are the Town of Darien (which includes the Board of Education), Colangelo Synergy Marketing, Ring’s End Inc., Zotos International Hair Care Products, and the Wee Burn Country Club.

Consumer Protection

The state Better Business Bureau is located in Wallingford. It provides reports on businesses, charity groups, and organizations, helps resolve consumer disputes with businesses, and promotes ethical business standards. You may file a complaint online at bbb.org/connecticut or by phone at 860-740-4500. Consumers may also file a complaint about a business by calling the state Department of Consumer Protection at 800-842-2649 or visiting portal.ct.gov/dcp. Written complaints may be mailed to 450 Columbus Blvd., Hartford CT, 06103-1835.

Welcoming Services

New Neighbors brings local information to new residents to help make getting settled easier, and includes information on community organizations as well as brochures and samples from local merchants. Contact Katherine Sakara. Phone: 610-348-6835. Email: ctnewneighbors@gmail.com

The YWCA Newcomers Club of Darien and Norwalk offers social activities, recreational programs, and special events for women who are new to the community. Phone: 203-655-2535. Email: newcomers@ywcadn.org. Website: ywcadn.org

Public &Community Services!

Darien Library

The Darien Library (1441 Post Road) is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1–5 p.m. The Children’s Library closes one hour earlier than the main library Monday through Thursday. The library is closed on major holidays.

The director is Kiera Parrott (203-669-5224/kparrott@ darienlibrary.org). The library has a special email (askus@ darienlibrary.org) for your questions. The “Services” webpage has a comprehensive list of the wide range of library offerings to business people, teachers, children, job-seekers, genealogy researchers, and others.

Library Journal has rated the Darien Library as a five-star library in their annual review of U.S. public libraries. Phone: 203-655-1234. Website: darienlibrary.org

GETTING A LIBRARY CARD

Darien residents with valid ID will be issued a card immediately. You may also apply for a card online at darienlibrary. org/signup. Your library card is accepted for borrowing materials at any one of Connecticut’s 163 libraries.

LIBRARY SERVICES

Throughout the year, the library hosts author events, lectures, film series and festivals, concerts, programs for job seekers, a spring and fall book discussion series, summer reading programs, a short story discussion series, master gardener programs, art exhibits, and receptions.

The website, darienlibrary.tv, offers streamlined access to an archive of library-created video content, including recorded author lectures, educational seminars, a “how-to” series on consumer technology, reader recommendation presentations, and videos for teens and children.

Public &Community Services!

Upcoming library events, new services, and new materials are previewed in the library’s weekly eNewsletter. The Technology Education Series offers classes for adults on popular software packages such as Microsoft Word and Excel. The Technology Help Desk on the second level offers public computer access, printing, photocopying, scanning, and more. The library has a Bloomberg Terminal located in the Cheswick Finance Library that provides access to the interactive, financial information network for professionals.

The technology staff and/or reference librarians are available by appointment for one-on-one sessions for research assistance using the library’s online resources and website, setting up email accounts, finding information online, or other specialized informational technology needs. Some of the staff serve as notary publics and are available to notarize documents for patrons free of charge.

MUSEUM PASSES

The library offers free passes and discounted rates to museums and cultural destinations in the Connecticut and New York metropolitan areas. Passes are available to library cardholders over the age of 18 on a first come, first serve basis and cannot be reserved. Call the Welcome Desk at 203-669-5239 to see which passes are available that day. If available, they can be held at the Welcome Desk for one hour.

Passes are available for: The Beardsley Zoo, The Bruce Museum, the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, the New York Botanical Gardens, the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, Stepping Stones Museum for Children, and the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford.

ART DISPLAYS

The library exhibits artwork in its art gallery on the lower level. Exhibits are organized by the library’s Art Committee. For information about the submission process, call 203-6695220 or visit darienlibrary.org/art-on-view

AN ASSOCIATION LIBRARY

The library receives tax money from the town for personnel and operating costs. The library is an association library and a nonprofit organization; donations to the annual fund pay for all books, movies, and technology and support programs. For information on donating, call 203-669-5220 or email cmclachlan@darienlibrary.org

Beautification Commission

The Darien Beautification Commission is charged with finding ways to maintain and improve the overall physical appearance of Darien. The commission meets monthly to review current projects and plan new ones. Projects under

the commission’s purview have included 30 islands along town roadways, 24 planters along Post Road, Adopt-A-Spot, and daffodil plantings. Learn more on the commission’s webpage at dariendct.gov

Town Social Services

Darien’s Human Services Department, led by Director Alexandra Ramsteck (aramsteck@darienct.gov), can assist people with information on housing, home care and nursing home placement, financial aid for home heating, loans for convalescent equipment, and rides to doctors and the senior center. Phone: 203-656-7328.

Community Nonprofit Agencies

Person-to-Person (St. Luke’s Parish, 1864 Post Road) offers emergency services to low-income families in the greater Stamford area in the form of food, clothing, furniture, financial assistance (loans or grants for rent, utilities, or security deposits), and eviction mediation. Phone: 203-655-0048. Website: p2phelps.org

Donations of seasonal clothing in good condition are welcome. Other items always needed include car seats, baby and children’s clothing, large-sized clothing, linens, blankets, towels, dishes, glasses, non-perishable food, small appliances, and toys. Donations are accepted weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays until 6 p.m., and most Saturdays during the school year from 9 a.m. to noon. Cash donations are also welcome.

The Community Fund of Darien helps its neighbors in Stamford, Norwalk, and Darien with basic needs: hunger, homelessness, physical/mental health care, job training, and youth success. Since 1951, TCF has granted more than $26 million to local nonprofits and community initiatives. Website: communityfunddarien.org

TCF also convenes the Human Services Planning Council, which brings together nonprofit, governmental, and educational leaders to discuss and develop plans to address social service needs in Darien. TCF’s Thriving Youth Task Force administers the Darien Student Survey and coordinates events throughout the school year to promote and empower positive youth development and mental health.

The Darien Foundation for Technology and Community provides grant funding for technology projects and capital projects within the community. Grants have paid for iPad labs at the high school and middle school; an amphibious vehicle for the fire department; deer fencing, benches, plants, bird baths, and feeders at the DCA bird sanctuary; and furniture and computers at The Depot Youth Center. Website: darienfoundation.org

Family & Children’s Agency Inc. in Norwalk is a private, nonprofit, family service agency that has been serving the community since 1942. Services include individual, family, and addiction counseling; international and domestic adoption; senior and family support services; youth development and mentoring; and community education programs. Phone: 203-855-8765. Website: familyandchildrensagency.org

Public &Community Services!

The Center for Hope (590 Post Road) offers individual counseling and support groups for adults and children facing life-threatening illnesses and bereavement. It also offers community education programs and programs for caregivers. The center is a division of Family Centers, Inc. Phone: 203-655-4693. Website: centerforhope.org

The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County is the region’s primary hunger-relief organization. It provides food to about 100 nonprofit agencies and programs that serve people in need in Darien and five other communities. These include soup kitchens, food pantries, child care programs, homeless shelters, senior centers, domestic violence safe houses, and rehabilitation programs. Website: foodbanklfc.org.

Fairfield County’s Community Foundation promotes philanthropy as a means to create change in Fairfield County, and looks to find solutions to critical issues impacting local communities. Individuals, families, corporations, and organizations can establish charitable funds or contribute to existing funds. The foundation has awarded more than $185 million in grants to nonprofits in Fairfield County and beyond. Phone: 203-750-3200. Website: fccfoundation.org.

The American Red Cross provides relief to disaster victims, and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. The organization also offers CPR and first-aid courses, works with youth in the Red Cross Action Team, runs blood drives, teaches a teen babysitting program, and helps connect families with armed services members. Phone: 877-287-3327. Website: ctredcross.org

Used Books

Darien Book Aid Plan, Inc. (1926 Post Road) is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that attempts to build a foundation of peace, understanding, and friendship through the free worldwide distribution of donated books. The group was founded in 1949 and sends books all over the world to Peace Corps volunteers, teachers, libraries, schools, prisons, and hospitals.

The most requested books are children’s books (preschool to young adult), classics, dictionaries, French and Spanish books, agriculture and environmental books, teaching methods and ESL books, vocational books, how-to and craft books, and encyclopedias on CD-ROM. The group also accepts textbooks no more than 10 years old and National Geographics no more than five years old. Phone: 203-6552777. Email darienbookaid@yahoo.com. Website: darien.org

Infoline 211

Infoline 211 is a free community service that is a public/ private partnership between the state and United Way of Connecticut. It is a single source for information about community services, referrals to human services, and crisis intervention that is accessible 24/7 by dialing 211. Specialists help callers with such issues as substance abuse, gambling, domestic violence, suicide prevention, housing, and financial problems. Websites: infoline.org or 211.org

Pets&Animals!

Dog Licenses

The Town Clerk’s Office in Town Hall issues dog licenses. All dogs must be licensed by the time they are six months old. A valid rabies certificate is required. Phone: 203-656-7307.

The cost is $19 annually for non-spayed or non-neutered dogs, and $8 if they’re spayed or neutered. Payment is by cash or check only. Dogs must be licensed before July 1; by state law there is a $1 penalty imposed for each month the dog goes unlicensed.

Rules and regulations for dogs in parks and the ordinance on controlling dogs in public places may be accessed on the town clerk’s webpage at darienct.gov

Cats aren’t required to be licensed, but cats must be immunized against rabies.

Dog Open Space Rules

Darien does not have an official dog park. Dogs are permitted off leash during certain hours in certain parks as well as at Weed Beach with restrictions during the off season. Visit darienct.gov/parkrec for a full listing.

If Your Dog is Lost

Contact Darien Animal Control Officer Chip Stahl at 203-662-5345 or cstahl@darienct.org. His hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. If the dog has been missing for more than 24 hours, it’s a good idea to call the animal control officers in neighboring towns as well.

Roaming Dog Law

State law prohibits dogs from roaming on someone else’s private property or on any portion of public highway when not attended by an owner and 100 percent under the owner’s control. Darien requires dogs to be leashed in parks and playing fields. Dogs may not run free at any public event or gathering of any kind anywhere in town. There is no official off-leash dog park in town. Violation of the leash law can result in a $50 fine.

If a loose dog is on your property, chasing your children or pets, or being a nuisance in any other way, you should call the animal control officer. Cats are allowed to roam onto other properties, as the state considers them to be feral by nature.

Pets&Animals!

Barking Dogs

This is the most common dog-related complaint in town. Nuisance barking can result in a $75 fine for the first offense. A second offense is a misdemeanor and the owner will have to appear in court.

Animal Hospitals

Park Animal Hospital (168 Noroton Ave.) is a fullservice hospital that performs surgery, dentistry, and other medical assistances. Phone: 203-655-7795. Website: parkanimalhospital.com.

The VCA Darien Animal Hospital (1302 Post Road) provides medical, surgical, and dental services. Phone: 203-655-1449. Website: vcadarien.com

Pet Emergency

Park Animal Hospital offers emergency services during regular business hours and veterinarian consultation by phone until 11 p.m. Phone: 203-655-7795. Website: parkanimalhospital.com

The VCA Veterinary Referral and Emergency Clinic (123 West Cedar St., Norwalk) is open 24 hours a day. Phone: 203-854-9960.

Pet Adoptions

Municipal animal shelters in nearby communities such as Norwalk or Stamford are good places to start. Many animal shelters and animal rescue groups list adoptable animals on petfinder.com.

Other organizations include Strays & Others in New Canaan (203-966-6556), Animals in Distress cat shelter in Wilton (203-762-2006), Pet Animal Welfare Society in Norwalk (203-750-9572/pawsct.org), the Connecticut Humane Society in Westport (203-227-4137), and Save Our Strays in Westport (203-255-0514).

Horses in Stables

All horses must live in stables or barns. For complete information about setbacks and other requirements, call the Darien Planning and Zoning Department at 203-656-7351.

Friends of Animals

Friends of Animals is an international nonprofit animal advocacy organization based in Darien. It works to cultivate a respectful view of animals, wild and domestic. Phone: 203-656-1522. Website: friendsofanimals.org

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