Updates From First Selectman Monica McNally

DARIEN, CT — The Darien Board of Selectmen held their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, and First Selectman Monica McNally gave several updates on various topics around town.

COVID-19

As of last week, the town's weekly positivity rate was 11.84 percent, according to McNally, which mirrors the state numbers. McNally said this is the highest positivity rate since January.

According to the latest update from Darien Public Schools, there have been 67 new COVID-19 cases reported over the last week from May 10-16.

"There are increases in every age group with the largest in the under 12 population," McNally said of new cases. "Fortunately hospitalizations remain low."

Great Island Purchase

The town continues to analyze a potential purchase of Great Island, which is listed for sale at $100 million. The island, which boasts over a mile of shoreline on the Long Island Sound, features a 13,000 square-foot manor, circa 1905.

"I continue to research all facets of this property including but not limited to funding possible uses," McNally said Monday. "Meetings are being held regularly and I hope to provide more information in the near future."

Metro-North Noise Abatement

McNally, who is on a Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG) committee, said she recently participated in a meeting to conduct interviews with companies on putting together a noise abatement study for Metro-North trains, specifically over by Talmadge Hill. She said the committee is currently reviewing proposals and references.

Memorial Day Flyover

The Darien Memorial Day parade is set for May 30. Board of Finance member John Wolcott will be the grand marshal. The parade will kick-off at 10 a.m. from Goodwives Shopping Center, and will go up the Post Road to Spring Grove Veterans Cemetery, where a ceremony honoring those who lost their lives while serving in the armed forces will take place at 11:15 a.m.

McNally said the town has requested a flyover from a C130 jet, and she told residents that they might experience a loud noise towards the end of the parade. The pilot will tip his wings in honor of those who have died in the armed forces.