Town Council Amends, Continues Order Restricting Beach Access

EAST HAVEN, CT — Saying it would otherwise would never attempt to restrict beach access, the Town Council enacted an amended executive order that codifies a rule that people not from East Haven are prohibited from using its town beach.

The order notes that the measure is in light of the pandemic and Gov. Ned Lamont's own March 10 order declaring a public health emergency.

Back in May, Mayor Joseph A. Carfora proclaimed and ordered the enactment of an “Emergency Ordinance Regarding Use Of East Haven Town Beach And Facilities." Wednesday night, the Council voted on an amended order that explains given the town has 396 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 34 deaths, and that the virus can be transmitted by people with no symptoms, and be more "virulent," even, the town has a duty to protect residents.

"This is a decision and action that is one that is not taken lightly- municipalities like ours who have taken similar action are clearly aware of the Leyden v. Town of Greenwich and its holding. But this global pandemic continues to create great challenges, as well as broad responsibilities to make sure that all parts of are our community are safe-for our residents -including our public spaces," Town attorney Michael Luzzi said. "Like so many safety actions that Mayor Carfora and our Town Council have taken throughout this pandemic, this one also is taken to protect the public health and safety of East Haven residents and the surrounding communities."

The beach-access order says the town's beach property, including all parking and facilities areas, is limited to residents only. And, includes specific language about continued mask-wearing rules and social distancing measures. The use of the East Haven Town Beach is for residents only and available 9 to 5 during the week and 7:30 to 5:30 on weekends and holidays, including upcoming Labor Day.

Read the full order here:

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