East Haven Mayor Joseph A. Carfora's State Of The Town Address

East Haven Mayoral STATE OF THE TOWN ADDRESS 2026

Mr. Chairman, Mr. Vice Chairman, members of the Town Council, members of the Board of Finance, members of the Board of Education, Superintendent Adam Swinney, our department heads, town employees, and most importantly, the residents of the Town of East Haven, Good Evening.
As your Mayor, I appreciate the opportunity to stand here tonight and talk about the State of our Town.

East Haven is better equipped, better prepared than in the past, and moving in the right direction, with a strong foundation for what comes next, even in a challenging
environment.

Over the past several years, we made a commitment to do the work that others avoided. We addressed long-standing issues, we made difficult decisions, and we put our town on
a more stable and responsible path. That work was not always easy, it was not always popular, it was necessary. And the results speak for themselves. You can see it in the services we deliver to our residents every single day. You can see it in the expanded recreational opportunities and the quality of life
improvements across our town. And you can see it in the investment and development that continues to move East Haven forward.

So, let me be clear…

We are not immune to the challenges facing municipalities across this state and this country. Rising costs, contractual obligations, unfunded mandates, and economic pressures continue to impact how we operate.

But the difference is this…

We planned for this, we prepared for it, and we are ready.

Because of the decisions we have made, and the discipline we have maintained, East Haven is in a position not just to manage through these challenges, but to continue moving forward.

And that is exactly what we are doing.
Tonight, I want to walk you through where we are, what we have accomplished, and where we are headed as a community.
Because the story of East Haven is no longer about catching up.
It is about continuing to build what comes next.

PUBLIC SAFETY
Public safety remains the foundation of any strong community, and in East Haven, that foundation is solid.
Every single day, our Police and Fire Departments answer the call, often in situations that are unpredictable, dangerous, and ever changing.

This year alone, our Police Department responded to over 28,000 calls for service, demonstrating the level of responsibility they carry and the trust our residents place in
them every single day.

Our Police Department continues to adapt to the ever changing demands of modern law enforcement. This year, they achieved Tier III State Accreditation…we implemented advanced license plate reader technology… and expanded traffic calming initiatives that directly respond to concerns we hear from our residents every day.

We have also made important investments in equipment and readiness, including the addition of a SWAT vehicle, ensuring that our officers have the tools they need to respond effectively in critical situations.

But just as important as readiness… is how we serve. We have continued to strengthen the connection between our department and the community, including the addition of a social worker in helping to address situations that require care, support, and intervention beyond traditional enforcement.

That matters.

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Because public safety today is not just about enforcement… it is about understanding, communication, and trust.
Our Police and Fire officials know that trust is built every day…
Whether it is National Night Out…the Battle of the Badges…the Battle of the Havens Hockey Game, where over 40,000 dollars was raised for St. Jude Children’s Hospital… or the many Police Athletic League programs that support our youth. Our officers are present, their engaged, and their invested in the people they serve. That same level of commitment extends across both departments.

Our Fire Department responded to more than 5,400 calls for service this year, the majority of which were medical emergencies.
Think about that for a moment…

That means thousands of times, someone in this community needed help, and our firefighters were there to deliver.
With the help of Fire Chief Matt Macarelli, they have secured grant funding to enhance their capabilities and continue to invest in the infrastructure that supports their work.

That includes the expansion of the Foxon Fire Station, a critical project that will improve response times, strengthen coverage, and better position the department to serve the
residents in Foxon for years to come.
And through it all, they continue to operate with a level of professionalism and readiness that our residents depend on every single day.
You see that same commitment not only on emergency calls, but at community events, in our schools, and in the everyday moments where they connect with the people they protect.
Public safety is not just about response… it is about preparation, training, and having the right people and the right resources in place before something happens.
And that is exactly what we have in East Haven.

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To our police officers, our firefighters, and their families… thank you. Your commitment, your professionalism, and your willingness to serve this community does not go unnoticed. As your Mayor, you will always have my continued support.

PUBLIC WORKS
Public Works is where residents see the impact of their government every single day, and this past year, that impact has been visible across our entire town.
From road paving and drainage improvements to park upgrades and town wide maintenance, our Public Works team has been everywhere, handling both planned projects and unexpected challenges with consistency and professionalism.
We completed roadwork and infrastructure improvements across multiple neighborhoods, addressed drainage issues to prevent future flooding, and continued our commitment to
maintaining safe and accessible streets for our residents.
Our Public Works team also played a major role in improving the appearance and functionality of our public spaces.
From the completion of the beautiful new gazebo on the Town Green, including new landscaping and tree plantings, to beach maintenance, park upgrades, and the installation of new amenities throughout our town, these are the improvements that people see and use every day.
I was especially proud when our work on the Town Green received recognition at the state level under the ADA. Our newly reconstructed gazebo was designed with accessibility in mind, and that effort did not go unnoticed. It was recognized as one of the most accessible public stages in the state, and our town received formal recognition for that work.
That is something we should all be proud of.
Because it reflects a simple idea… that our public spaces should be open, welcoming, and accessible to everyone.

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Public Works supported community events, maintained our fields and facilities, and ensured that our town remains a place people are proud to call home. And when those big storms hit, they were the ones out there early… and staying late…making sure our roads are safe and our community keeps moving.
This is not easy work, and it often goes unnoticed, but it is essential.
And in East Haven, it is being done the right way.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
We are seeing real, measurable growth across East Haven… and it is not happening by accident.
The level of activity reflects something important… confidence.
We consistently talk with developers regarding long vacant and underutilized properties to put them back into productive use. Projects like the redevelopment of the former Seasons property, along with continued investment along our Route 80 and I-95 corridors, are transforming those areas into active commercial spaces. Because every time we take a property that was sitting empty and bring it back to life… it strengthens our tax base, supports local jobs, and signals that East Haven is moving in the right direction.
At the same time, we continue to support the businesses that have been part of this community for years, while creating opportunities for new ones to come in and grow.
But economic development is not just about buildings…
It is about creating an environment where investment makes sense.
It is about improving our infrastructure, addressing long standing challenges, and making sure that when opportunities arise… we are ready for them.
And that is exactly what we are doing.
The result is clear…
East Haven is no longer waiting for investment. We are positioning ourselves to attract it, support it, and sustain it… in a way that benefits this entire community.

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RECREATION & YOUTH SERVICES
A strong town is not just measured by development, it is measured by the quality of life of its residents.
And in East Haven… you can see those quality of life efforts in action every single day.

Our Recreation Department continues to expand programming and participation across all age groups… creating fun and social activities for families, children, and seniors to
stay active and engaged. From youth sports and seasonal programs to community events and activities throughout
the year… our recreation programs are bringing more people together than ever before. Our parks, our fields, our Town Green, and our facilities are being used, enjoyed, and
filled with activity… and that is exactly what we want to see.
Because these are the places where families gather… where kids grow… and where this community connects.
At the same time, our Youth Services Division continues to expand its reach. After school programming has grown, participation at the Teen Center has increased, and more young people are taking advantage of the safe, structured opportunities being offered there every day.
But beyond the numbers… this is about impact.
It is about giving our young residents a place to go… a place to belong… and the support they need to succeed.
And that is something that benefits not just our youth… but our entire community.

SENIOR CENTER

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At our Senior Center, participation continues to grow, with more than 300 active members and a wide range of programming offered each month. From daily activities and social events to health and wellness programs, transportation
services with our newly acquired senior bus, and outreach, the center has become a place where our seniors can stay active, stay connected, and continue to be an important part of
this community. And just as important as the programming…is the sense of connection it provides. Because for many of our seniors… this is not just a place to go… it is a place to belong.

SOCIAL SERVICES
At the same time, our Social Services team continues to provide critical support to residents who need it most.
Over the past year, they have delivered hundreds of thousands of dollars in assistance through energy programs, rental rebates, and other forms of support, helping individuals
and families remain stable during challenging times.

But beyond the numbers… their work is about people.
It is about making sure that when someone in this community needs help, there is a place to turn, and a team ready to step in.

ANIMAL CONTROL
Our Animal Shelter continues to do incredible work, not only caring for animals, but supporting our community and our neighboring community of North Branford as well.
With an adoption rate of over 95 percent, the shelter has become a place where animals are given a second chance, and families are brought together.
They have expanded partnerships with veterinary providers to offer wellness clinics, helping residents care for their pets while promoting responsible ownership throughout the community.

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The shelter has also created opportunities for young people in our community to get involved, with students volunteering their time to complete service hours while learning
the importance of care, responsibility, and compassion.
And they are continuing to look ahead, with plans to upgrade and modernize kennel facilities to better serve both the animals in their care and the community that relies on
them.
This is a department that operates with both professionalism and heart, and it makes a real difference in the lives of our residents every single day.

LIBRARY
Under the leadership of Sarah Mallory, our Hagaman Memorial Library team showed exactly what determination and community service is all about.
After a third party vendor caused significant flooding which forced the closure of the building, the library did not stop serving our residents… it adapted.
Through partnerships across town and the creative use of alternative spaces, library services not only continued, but in many ways expanded, reaching thousands of additional residents and maintaining critical programming for children, families, and seniors. Programs were brought into schools, neighboring town spaces, and other locations throughout town… ensuring that access to learning, resources, and community engagement never stopped.
From educational programming and literacy initiatives to community events and everyday access to materials, the library remained a vital part of this community… even
without a physical home. And in many ways… it’s reach grew.
That kind of response does not happen by accident. It reflects the dedication of the staff, the strength of our community partnerships, and a commitment to making sure that residents continued to have access to the services they rely on… no matter the circumstances.
Because the library is more than just a building… it is a service, it is a resource, and for many, it is a connection to this community. Hopefully by late April… we will be welcoming everyone back, with a Grand Re-opening.

FINANCE AND TAX
None of this happens without strong financial management.
Over the past two years, our Finance Department has worked to modernize and streamline operations, improving internal controls, enhancing transparency, and creating a more efficient structure for how we manage our finances.
They successfully implemented new processes while also improving coordination across departments to ensure accuracy and accountability in every step. Our Tax Department continues to perform at a high level, maintaining a collection rate near 99 percent, while also recovering previously uncollectible revenue and strengthening our financial position.
That consistency provides the stability needed to fund essential services and plan responsibly for the future.
Our Finance Department continues to demonstrate discipline, transparency, and accountability in every aspect of our operations. The proposed budget currently reflects a mill rate increase of 2.81 mills. That is not a number anyone takes lightly… and it is not a decision that is made casually.
But it is important to understand what is driving that number.
The majority of this increase is not the result of new programs or expanded services. It is being driven by rising contractual obligations, including wages, employee benefits, insurances, and long term contractual commitments that we are required to meet.

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In addition, we continue to see massive increases in areas such as special education, insurance, and other fixed costs that are outside of our direct control. These are not optional expenses… they are necessary obligations that ensure we continue
to provide the level of service our residents expect and deserve.
The reality is this… Because of the financial discipline we have maintained over the past several years, we are in a position to manage these pressures in a responsible way. We have built a strong financial foundation. We have improved our collection rates. We have identified efficiencies. And we have avoided the kind of instability that many municipalities are now facing.
That work matters. Because it has allowed us to absorb a significant portion of these increases without placing the full burden on our taxpayers. But even with that discipline… there are limits. At a certain point, the cost of maintaining services, meeting our obligations, and continuing to move this town forward must be addressed.

And that is where we are.
This is not about expanding government. This is about sustaining it… responsibly. This is about making sure that East Haven continues to provide the services our residents
rely on every single day, while maintaining the financial stability we have worked hard to build.
And just as importantly…
It is about making decisions today that prevent larger, more disruptive increases in the future. We have built a strong financial foundation, and that foundation allows us to make hard, yet responsible decisions, in a challenging economic environment.

EDUCATION

Over the past several years, one of the most important areas of progress has been the relationship between the Town and the Board of Education. I’m proud of the relationship our administrations have developed. It would not be possible without the efforts of Interim Superintendent Swinney and R.J. Caponera… and I look forward to continuing our teamwork.
We have made a deliberate effort to improve communication, strengthen collaboration, and work toward shared goals with this year’s budget… and that effort is paying off.

The Board of Education has presented a budget that reflects a focus on targeted investments, balancing cost reductions with the need to meet growing student demands. At the same time, the rising costs associated with student services, particularly in special education, continue to place significant pressure on the overall budget. Those pressures are real, and they are substantial. Special education costs alone have increased by 6.5 million dollars… while contractual obligations on the Town side account for an additional 5.4 million dollars. These are not discretionary expenses… they are requirements we must meet, and they have a direct impact on our budget and our taxpayers.

We understand how important it is to invest in our students… and we also have a responsibility to ensure that every dollar is spent wisely and effectively. That is why we continue to advocate at the state level, including trips to the State Capitol
to secure additional Educational Cost Sharing funding and support for our students, Teachers and Para’s.
This includes investments in college and career readiness programs, expanded special education support, and the implementation of state mandated literacy initiatives to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed in life.

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TWEED NEW HAVEN AIRPORT
The proposed expansion of Tweed New Haven Airport is, without question, the most significant issue my administration has faced. From the beginning, our focus has been clear and consistent: ensuring that East Haven maintains appropriate control over development within our town, that any impacts are fully understood and minimized to the
greatest extent possible, and that the burdens of this project are shared fairly and managed responsibly.
The FAA is, at its core, in the business of air travel and expanding access to it. That is its role. But given what we are seeing across the country at our airports today, it is fair to ask
whether there are moments where a more measured approach is warranted. I have said before, and I will say again, these planes are not going away. Tweed has identified a market, and it is one that appears to be growing. Which brings me back to where this all began.
Nearly six years ago, when I first spoke publicly about this project, I framed it around a few basic principles: shared burdens, shared responsibility, and fundamental fairness.
And I said then that there was a great deal of work to be done.
As we began to move through the early stages of this proposal, it became clear that there were efforts to move forward without fully accounting for the real impacts on East
Haven. That was not something we could accept. For the past six years, I have pushed back on that approach. Not with rhetoric, but with preparation, expert analysis, and data.
The goal has been straightforward: to ensure that East Haven’s concerns are heard, that we have access to accurate information so our staff and experts can fully evaluate what
this project means for our town, and above all, that East Haven has a meaningful, respected, and consistent seat at the table when decisions of this magnitude are being made.
At times, that was not easy. There were efforts to limit information, to move quickly, and to treat this as something that would simply happen. But over time, that began to change. As it became clear that we were not stepping away from this, and that our team was going to continue doing the work, gathering the data, and asking the necessary questions, we began to see a shift. Information that had not been readily available began to come forward. The process became more transparent. And East Haven’s role became more clearly recognized. That did not happen by accident. It happened because we stayed engaged, we stayed prepared, and we stood together.
This Council supported that effort at every stage. It was bipartisan, it was disciplined, and it remained focused on a single, shared goal: protecting East Haven and ensuring that our voice was part of every major decision. In response, we engaged specialized counsel, retained experts, and took steps to ensure that our position was fully represented at every
level of review. That work continues today. As far back as 2021, Representative Joe Zullo and I issued a joint statement emphasizing that this project was not a foregone conclusion, and that East Haven’s interests would need to be part of any path forward. We made it clear then, as we continue to emphasize now, that this has never been about politics. It has always been about protecting our community.
In 2022, those efforts expanded. Along with Representative Zullo and Senator Paul Cicarella, we brought forward concerns directly to Tweed and Avports. Those discussions focused on real issues, including noise, air quality, and the day-to-day impact on our residents. These are not abstract concerns. They reflect the “lived experience” of the people in our town. By 2023, our attention turned to access and fairness in the process itself. It became clear that East Haven was not receiving the same level of information as other stakeholders,
and we made it known that a fair and productive process requires transparency and equal access. At the same time, there was a perception that local review could be avoided. We
did not agree with that, and our legal analysis confirmed that local authority remains a critical and necessary part of this process.

In 2024, our position continued to evolve as the project advanced. We raised concerns that decisions were moving forward without fully accounting for East Haven’s interests.
As we move through 2025 and into 2026, the landscape has shifted. There is now a broader understanding that this project will require comprehensive review across all levels of government. That includes state agencies such as the Connecticut Department of Transportation and Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection,
Federal agencies, and, most importantly, our own Planning and Zoning Commission. Local review will occur. Local authority will be exercised. And it will not be bypassed.
That is not a request. That is the process. At the same time, there is growing recognition that the impacts of this project cannot fall disproportionately on East Haven. There are real impacts, and there are real costs. Our Police and Fire Chiefs have done the work. They have outlined what this means
operationally and financially. Not assumptions, not estimates, but real numbers grounded in experience. And I want to recognize them for that work. We are now seeing increased engagement from all parties, including Avports and the
State, and a developing understanding that any path forward must include shared responsibility. This includes not only planning, but also funding and infrastructure support, particularly in areas such as Coe Avenue and Hemingway Avenue, where existing challenges like flooding must be addressed. Ultimately, this is about balance. It is about ensuring that any progress is aligned with what our community can reasonably support, and that today’s decisions do not create unintended burdens in the future. It is also important to be clear about what has not changed. The Town of East Haven retains all of its legal rights. We have not waived our authority. We have not limited our review. And we have not committed to any outcome. Our Planning and Zoning Commission will evaluate any application independently and
based on the record before it. No outcome has been predetermined. If this project moves forward, it will do so through a complete process that includes state traffic and environmental review, and meaningful local participation. It must also include state partnership, including funding and infrastructure improvements where impacts are felt.
Because at the end of the day, this is not just about an airport. It is about whether a town like East Haven has a meaningful voice in decisions that directly impact its future. It is about whether our residents are heard, whether our infrastructure is protected, and whether responsibility is shared in a fair and reasonable way.
We have made it clear that we will stay engaged. We have made it clear that we will not be rushed. And we have made it clear that this process must be complete and fair. That is what has changed.

CLOSING
As we move forward, we will continue to make the decisions necessary to protect the long term future of this town… even when they are the difficult ones. Because that is what leadership requires. We all see what is happening around us.
Neighboring communities are facing the same challenges with rising costs, increasing obligations, and difficult financial decisions. Our residents see it in the news every single day.
It is the reality we are operating in. And the difference is how you respond to it. We will continue to invest where it matters.
We will continue to manage our finances with discipline.
And we will continue to do the work… the right way… for the right reasons. Because East Haven is no longer trying to catch up. We have done that work. Now, we are building something stronger. A town that is prepared. A town that is stable. We are moving forward with purpose… with direction… and with the confidence that comes from being prepared. And we are doing it together. Thank you and have a safe evening.