Public Info Session on School District Consolidation Bill Set

WILTON, CT — A public information session for parents and homeowners to discuss and learn more about proposed legislation that would merge local school districts has been scheduled for Thursday night in town.

SB 454, introduced by State Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, would empower a commission to create a plan to consolidate school districts with fewer than 40,000 people. Under such a plan, it is likely that Wilton's district would merge with that of Norwalk.

The bill's stated purpose is to make a more efficient educational system. Its opponents believe it may adversely affect property values in town. The bill, if approved, would take effect in 2021.

Democratic State Senator Will Haskell, representing the 26th District which includes Wilton, has issued a statement in opposition to the bill:

“We have deep respect for Senator Looney and are always open to discussing the difficult issues facing our state, including the issue of regionalization, because finding efficiencies in state spending is a priority for us. However, we cannot support SB 454 to regionalize our schools.”

The Republican Town Committee has also expressed opposition to the bill, saying that it "would seriously jeopardize Wilton’s reputation for high quality, locally controlled education. Other serious consequences for Wilton, known and unknown, would no doubt follow."

The RTC is inviting the public to a non-partisan information session on SB 454 on Thursday, Jan. 31, at 7:00 p.m. at Trackside TeenCenter at 15 Station Road in Wilton.