Above: Waveny Park – Illustration By Jessica Stephen-Kuser
KEVIN J. MOYNIHAN, First Selectman, New Canaan
What excites you most about New Canaan?
New Canaan is thriving with young families. Our culture of academic and athletic achievement, volunteerism and caring is what makes New Canaan a special place for families as well as our retired senior community.
What are some of the town’s biggest challenges?
Large retail spaces present a challenge for commercial landlords due to online shopping habits and national retail trends. The anticipated arrival of a large new shopping mall coming to Norwalk in 2020 will add to the challenge. Fortunately, our range of smaller shops provide a great experiential counter weight to these challenges.
How do you think New Canaan can improve?
We have many treasures in New Canaan that are “best kept secrets,” even to our residents. The Philip Johnson Glass House, Grace Farms, a large collection of mid-century modern homes and an award-winning summer theater. Many residents don’t know that our Land Trust has protected almost 400 acres of open space over the past 50 years or that Waveny Park Conservancy is enhancing the natural beauty of Waveny Park. Our new Tourism and Economic Development Committee is also looking for ways to make New Canaan’s treasures more accessible to residents and visitors.
What would you say to someone considering a move to New Canaan?
We have so much to offer young families looking to relocate—top-rated schools, state-of-the-art athletics fields, exceptional parks, playgrounds, clubs, an abundance of family-oriented activities and low real estate taxes compared to many suburbs. Our quintessential New England village is the envy of Fairfield County in offering a variety of shops, personal service outlets, excellent restaurants, a movie theater and more.
JAYME STEVENSON, First Selectman, Darien
What excites you most about Darien?
With three large commercial redevelopment projects approved, we are excited about the addition of new retail, restaurants and housing. Our commitment to preserving open space, sustainability and community health and wellness make us the kind of town families and businesses desire.
What are some of the town’s biggest challenges?
There are new laws working their way through the legislative process that will have varying degrees of impact on local government structure and finance.
How do you think Darien can improve?
The Board of Selectmen is continually seeking feedback from residents and businesses regarding services or projects that will improve our town. We have made significant investments in town and school infrastructure including a new elementary school, pedestrian amenities like sidewalks and traffic signals, upgrades to beach and park facilities and programming for our residents such as a state-of-the-art senior center. We take seriously our impact on the environment and have created a best-in-class recycling center, installed solar technology on most public buildings, expanded access to natural gas and are participating in the SustainableCT initiative.
What would you say to someone who is considering a move to Darien?
We are a caring community, perfectly suited for families and those looking for a suburban environment. We have volunteers working with elected officials to deliver sound fiscal policy and services in the most cost-efficient way. Our parks, beaches, excellent public schools, short commute to New York City and small New England town character provide an exceptional living experience.