Now that the storm is three weeks behind us, we are in full recovery mode. I have a few updates on the recovery process.

FEMA

New Fairfield and other towns affected by the May 15 storm have submitted preliminary damage assessments to the CT Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. The Department will compile the information and present it to the Governor, who will then prepare a formal request for a Federal Disaster Declaration. It is then up to the President to sign the Declaration, which will detail both the amount of aid, and the type of aid to be made available by FEMA. I will provide updates as they become available.

BRUSH REMOVAL

We are in the process of contracting a vendor to remove brush and tree debris placed along the road. It is important for the Town to follow all FEMA guidelines for procurement to ensure eligibility for reimbursement. When details become available, I will provide an Alert Now message, post on the Town website, Town of New Fairfield, CT Facebook Page, at Town Hall and in the Town Tribune.   The Drop Off Center will continue to accept storm debris at no charge through Saturday, June 9. As we are nearing capacity at the DOC, we will return to our standard restrictions and fees for brush disposal beginning on Tuesday, June 12.

MARINA

Divers have assessed the damage to the Town marina, and found more damage than anticipated. We must replace the concrete block anchors and some chains, and weld broken docks and catwalks. Due to the widespread storm damage on Candlewood Lake, we were unable to contract with local marinas to make the extensive repairs necessary. We have contracted with a qualified marina equipped with a crane to begin work next week. We appreciate your patience, and will update as work progresses.

BUILDING AND BURNING PERMITS

Our Building Official wants to remind everyone that safety is our priority and that is why permits for repairs, alterations and rebuilding are required. We are here to confirm work is completed to the state building code for your safety and that of your family and property. For your convenience, applications can be completed online at https://newfairfieldct.viewpointcloud.com If you have any questions please call the Building Department at 203-312-5646 or email Eric Kist, our Building Official at ekist@newfairfield.org Permits are also required for open burning. When burning brush be sure to obtain a permit through the Fire Marshal’s Office BEFORE burning. You will need to make an appointment to get a permit (you can call 203-312-5731 or Email nfmarshal@newfairfield.org Please see the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s link for Residential Burning regulations at www.ct.gov/deep

Please continue to send storm damage information to nfstormdamage@newfairfield.org In addition to personal property damage, please send information regarding leaning trees near roads and Eversource debris (poles, transformers, wire) remaining on roadways to the same address with the subject “Leaning trees/Debris”

– Pat Del Monaco, First Selectman