Ridgefield ECDC Hires Part-Time Consultant, Advances Cultural District Initiatives

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Economic & Community Development Commission unanimously approved the hiring of Jessica Medoff as a part-time consultant for the 2026-27 fiscal year during its June 1 meeting at Town Hall.

Medoff, who currently works as a communications specialist for the Brewster School District, introduced herself to commissioners and outlined her background in project management and stakeholder engagement before the vote. Commissioner James Classey made the motion to hire Medoff, which was seconded by Commissioner David Perlmutter and approved unanimously.

The commission reviewed a federal funding opportunity through the U.S. Economic Development Administration's AI Upskill Pilot Program. Chair Bob Knight said the program includes $25 million in available funding to support artificial intelligence workforce training initiatives. No action was taken.

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Commissioner Corrin Arasa reported several developments related to Ridgefield's Cultural District. According to Arasa, the district recently launched an Instagram account, finalized a June and July content calendar, and is nearing completion of a new logo design. Arasa also said work is underway on a traffic box art program in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Transportation, and the district has issued a call for three artists to participate.

The commission also discussed plans for a Cultural District public art project, deciding to shift from a sculpture concept to a mural.

Commissioner Jennifer Gioffre reported that she has been working with Western Connecticut Tourism District Executive Director Terry Macary on marketing best practices and has connected with Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Annie Fandl to explore collaborative opportunities between the two organizations.

Members praised the recent Ridgefield Connect event, saying attendees responded positively to its moderated panel format. The next Ridgefield Connect program is expected to take place this fall and will feature Prospector Popcorn and its manufacturing operations.

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The commission also discussed traffic safety concerns along the northern Route 7 corridor. While members decided not to issue a referral letter, they expressed support for pursuing solutions to address recurring crashes in the area. Commissioner Nadia Blair was tasked with leading efforts to identify stakeholders who could help advance safety improvements.

Additional updates included preparations for Make Music Day on June 21, notice of an open commission seat representing the Cultural District, and news that Commissioner Peter Kearney had connected with the Connecticut district director of the U.S. Small Business Administration, who offered assistance to the commission's efforts.

The meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.