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Sustainable CT Community Certification Report

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This is the Sustainable CT Certification Report of Darien, a Sustainable CT silver certified applicant.

Darien was certified on October 31, 2022 with 535 points. Listed below is information regarding Darien’s Sustainable CT efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable CT contact for Darien is:

Name:Monica McNally
Title/Position:First Selectperson / Administration
Phone:203-656-7386

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Darien was approved for in 2022 appears below. Please enjoy this opportunity to view and learn from the information and materials provided.

Notes: Submission content was created by Darien, and Sustainable CT makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the submission, beyond that an individual reviewer approved at least some elements of the action for certification. Further, standards for actions below may have changed, and the documentation listed may no longer satisfy requirements for that action. Finally, approved actions here may include some documents and descriptions in support of action elements that were not approved, in addition to elements that were approved. In preparing your own application, please rely only on the action write-ups for the current certification year to guide your submission. Please contact [email protected] with specific questions.

  • 1. Inclusive and Equitable Community Impacts

    1.1 Optimize for Equity — REQUIRED for All Certification Levels

    40 Points

    Approved Information: 1.1 A Equity Toolkit (Action 4.1) (10 points) 1.1 B Equity Toolkit (Action 13.1A) (10 points) 1.1 C Equity Toolkit (Action 10.2.2) (10 points) 1.1 D Equity Toolkit (Action 9.4) (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Action 1.1 a Equity Toolkit applied to Action 4.1: none of these documents require special references or guidance for the reviewers. Action 1.1 B documents include a narrative that explains the equity toolkit process applied by Parks and Recreation (1.1B.1). The PDF shows outcome of the collaboration using the 2022 catalog. Buddy Program highlighted on the cover on pg.1. Description on PDF pg.3. Pages 4 -8 provide the actual class offerings in Spring/Summer 2022. (1.1B.2) Descriptions of 2021 courses, the role of buddies and future plans are included in the 13.1A submission. Action 1.1 C documents include a narrative that explains the equity toolkit process applied by the Town of Darien (1.1C.1). The 6 page narrative includes links and screen captures of relative information on the creation of a Mental Health Task Force after a desktop HIA (Action 10.2.2). 1.1C.2 PDF of Human Services Q1 2022 Report. 1.1C.3 captures Darien website Mental Health Task Force Announcement and Resources. Action 1.1 D Equity Toolkit applied to Action 9.4 Darien Food Scrap Program: these documents require special references or guidance for the reviewers.

    Partners: Action 1.1 a Apply Equity Toolkit to Action 4.1 was a partnership among the Darien Senior Center, At Home in Darien, the Darien Human Services Department, and the Chairman of the Housing Authority of Darien. These organizations provided inputs and guidance with respect to the need for the map and how to distribute it. They also assured dissemination of the map by newsletters and website, and finally cooperated in the administration of the survey we used. Action 1.1 B Equity Toolkit with Buddy Program Action 13.1 A. Initial communication took place between the Parks and Recreation Department (with input from the Darien Youth Director) and parents of children with social emotional reluctance. It resulted in the creation of the All Abilities Buddy Program.. As the program has been implemented Project Buddy Up, The Darien Depot, Noroton Presbyterian Church, and A Better Chance_Darien have assisted in developing a network of teen volunteers to serve as buddies in selected Parks and Recreation offerings. Action 1.1 C: Equity Toolkit and 10.2.2 HIA and Mental Health Task Force was a collaboration between public and private entities including: First Selectman and one member of Board of Selectmen, Town Administrator, Darien Public Schools (Superintendent, Assist Superintendent, Psychologist/Program Director Special Ed and Student Services), Board of Education, Darien Police Department (Chief and Lieutenant), Post 53 Director, Darien Health Department Director & Public Health Nurse, Darien Human Services Director & Assistant Director, Community Fund of Darien, TYTF, Child Guidance Center of Southern CT, Family Centers/Center for Hope, Kids in Crisis, Darien clergy (multiple members), YWCA Parent Awareness, Laurel House, The Depot, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, The Hub, Darien YMCA, Lawrence Funeral Home, Darien Youth Commission Director, Darien Emergency Management Director, Town of Darien Media Relations Manager Action 1.1 D Equity Toolkit applied to Darien Food Scrap Program: The partners were the Advisory Committee on Sustainability, the Department of Public Works, the Darien Housing Authority and the management and residents of the Royle.

    Additional Information: 1.1.a- https://athomeindarien.org

  • 2. Thriving Local Economies

    2.3 Inventory and Promote Local Products and Services

    20 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 2.3.1A: Inventory with names and addresses of businesses in list and map forms. (10 points) 2.3.2 Worksheet to Describe “Buy Local” Campaign Efforts. (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Please see the attached photos. 2.3.1.a documents the early May 2022 roll out of the new Chamber of Commerce app. 2.3.1.a-attachments- There are multiple screen shots of the new app and it's multiple pages profiling businesses in town under 4 categories (eat/shop/play/live/work.) also two examples of how the listings are laid out in the app. 2.3.2 Details the chamber of commerce social media campaigns as well as supporting documentation in documents 2.3.2 attachments 1 and 2. Town web chamber link shows the link to the Chamber of Commerce website listed on out town website. Looking for a bargain in Darien is the news piece that went out when the app rolled out.

    Partners: The Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Darien Sport Shop to create and develop the app.

    2.4 Provide Resources and Supports to Local Businesses

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 2.4.1 Provide Recourses and Supports to Local Businesses (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: The completed worksheet and promotional flyer for the event are attached.

    Partners: None.

  • 3. Well-Stewarded Land and Natural Resources

    3.1 Provide Watershed Education

    15 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 3.1.1a Sponsor or host a program to educate residents and business owners in your community about the value of watersheds (10 points) 3.1.2a: Community Based Research (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.1.2a (A): An overview of the Unified Water Study from CFE/Save the Sound's website. Note the Town of Darien listed as a participant (green star), monitoring the following water bodies: Darien Harbor, Cove Harbor, Scott Cove. 3.1.2a (B): "Presentation by William Cavers, Coastal Commission," p. 1 is an overview of the Unified Water Study; the Board unanimously approved the Advisory Commission on Coastal Waters to organize and manage Darien's participation in the Save the Sound Unified Water Study. 3.1.2a (C): Explanation of how data obtained via the Unified Water Study can inform local policy. William Cavers, Chairman Darien Advisory Commission on Coastal Waters, Summer 2019. 3.1.2a (D): the program was again expanded in 2019 to include monitoring of additional water bodies - Scott/Zieger's Coves 3.1.2a (E): Educational outreach on the Unified Water Study via a local magazine. Article written by William Cavers, Chairman Darien Advisory Commission on Coastal Waters. 3.1.2a (F): Announcement that the the 6th season is underway to record the water quality of Darien Harbor, Cove Harbor, and Scott/Ziegler/Fish Islands area. 3.1.1a: This one page document incorporates the links to videos of the presentations as well as the time in the presentation at which the relevant comments are made.

    Partners: 3.1.2a (community based research): Darien's participation in the Unified Water Study was initiated by and is conducted by the Chairman of the Darien Advisory Commission on Coastal Waters, and was approved by the Darien Board of Selectmen in February 2017. Water sampling is conducted by town volunteers and results are shared with the Darien Department of Health and Darien Board of Selectmen. Several partners play a critical role in this project and include: 1) CFE/Save the Sound oversees the Unified Water Study in which approximately two dozen other municipalities in New York and Connecticut participate; it also owns the monitoring equipment used; 2) The Darien Boat Club provides the motor boat used by volunteers to monitor water quality; 3) The Darien Nature Center provides space where monitoring instruments can be calibrated and stored (note: although this arrangement still exists, during COVID-19 equipment was stored in the basement of one of the volunteers. 4) Volunteers from Darien Men's Association and the Darien Land Trust.

    Additional Information: 3.1.2a: There are currently 4-6 volunteers who participate in this program. Although high school students were encouraged to assist in the program's early years, none currently do. The time and commitment required by this program is substantial: volunteers go out every two weeks from May through October, usually very early on a Saturday morning, and are out on the water for 3-4 hours at a time. Calibrating the equipment and entering the data requires another 2+ hours.

    3.4 Develop an Open Space Plan

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 3.4.4.b. Increase preserved open space in your community. (10 points) 3.4.4.c. Improve open space parcels (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.4.4.b. Deed documenting purchase - Volume 1740, Page 1099 - Town of Darien acquires 27 Crimmins Road for $630,700. 3.4.4.b. Volume 1740, Page 1103 – Section 404 of the Stafford Act provides a process for a Community, through the State, to make application for funding to be used to acquire interests in property, including the purchase of structures in the floodplain, to demolish and/or remove the buildings, and to convert the land use into perpetual open space. 3.4.4.b Proof of Demolition phot of 27 Crimmins with house removed. 3.4.4.b. Volume 1740, Page 1103, Item I.a. – Compatible Uses, The land shall be used only for purposes compatible with open space, recreational or wetlands management practices; in general, such uses include parks for outdoor recreational activities, nature preserves, 3.4.4.c. Landscape Plans for improvement project completed at Highland Farm a town-owned open space at 560 Middlesex Road, Darien, CT. The plan included the planting of trees, shrubs, and perennials in three locations on the sixteen-acre property providing form, habitat, food, and included pollinator friendly plantings. 3.4.4.c Receipts indicating $27,712.50 spent on the landscaping project at Highland Farm

    Partners: 3.4.4.b Emergency Management Director 3.4.4.c Parks and Recreation

    3.6 Manage for Drought and Municipal Water Use

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 3.6.2: Pass a Drought Restriction Ordinance (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.6.2 (A) Sections 34-21 through 34-25 of Article II (Water Shortages) outline the Town's response in the case of a water-related public emergency.

    Partners: 3.6.2 (Pass a drought restriction ordinance): None.

    Additional Information: 1) Changes to town ordinances are made by the the town's legislative body, the Representative Town Meeting. 2) While there is not a formalized policy to use WaterSense-labeled products, emails from both the town administrator and the BOE facilities director state that it is "best practice" to do so; all new construction and replacements are made with these products. 3) The town does not have a formalized, written, Drought Communications Plan, but in practice does what such a plan would outline: both voluntary and mandatory drought restrictions declared by Aquarion and/or the governor are communicated to residents via the means described above: announcements at publicly-held (and recorded) Board of Selectmen meetings, publication under "news" on the town website, notice in the town's bi-weekly (electronic) newsletter, various town social media accounts, other local online news sources and, when appropriate, Code Red. In addition, the Department of Health page on the town website contains a link to Aquarion for water-saving tips and another link to the CT Water Planning Council's "Drought Information Center." The Health Department also posts regularly on its own social media accounts.

    3.10 Facilitate Invasive Species Education and Management

    10 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 3.10.2: Municipal Management of Invasive Species (5 points) 3.10.3: Educate Residents on Invasive Species Management (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.10.2 (C): Article in local paper (print and online) on the background of the Invasives Working Group formed by the Parks & Recreation Commission and some of the work they plan to undertake. 3.10.3a (A): Link on Town of Darien's website (Beautification Commission's webpage) to a resource on invasive species. 3.10.3a (B): Link from Town of Darien's website (Beautification Commission's webpage) to a Darien Pollinator Pathway webpage on invasive species: what they are, the CT Invasive Plant Council's List of 12 invasive plants that threaten our environment, economy, and human health (with photos), and other invasive plant resources. 3.10.3a (C): Link on Town of Darien's website (Environmental Protection Commission's webpage) to several websites on invasive species (refer to 3.10.3 (A) narrative for details). 3.10.3b (A): PowerPoint used in the Darien Library's presentation on 6/9/22, "Weeding in the Garden of Good and Evil: A Look at Invasives." It was later emailed to all participants. 3.10.3b (B): Article on invasive species in a local print magazine with a wide distribution by co-founders of the Darien Pollinator Pathway.

    Partners: 3.10.2 (municipal management of invasive species): Darien Pollinator Pathway, Darien Nature Center, Darien High School (senior internship program); 3.10.3 (educate residents): Darien Library, Darien Pollinator Pathway

    3.11 Implement Green Grounds and Maintenance Program

    10 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 3.11.1 Green Grounds Inventory (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Action 3.11.1: Complete the hyperlinked inventory for properties maintained by your municipality. (10 points)

    Partners: Action 3.11.1: Complete the hyperlinked inventory for properties maintained by your municipality: Department of Public Works, Parks and Rec Dept, Board of Ed.

    Additional Information: Everything on this inventory was happening without SCT, BUT the creation of the inventory across departments is a new action inspired by SCT.

    3.12 Enhance Pollinator Pathways

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 3.12.1: Provide education to residents to improve pollinator habitat (5 points) 3.12.2: Create pollinator gardens (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 3.12.1 (A). Enhance pollintor pathways by increasing residents' understanding of the importance of pollinators and practices that they can adopt to help (contains several links). 3.12.1(B). Sign describing the native plants installed at "Habitat Hill," how they enhance pollinators' habitat and the environment. 3.12.1(C). Discussion and vote taken by the Parks & Rec Commission to enact a multi-year maintenance program at Casey Field, located at Cherry Lawn Park, solely with organic materials to determine feasibility of phasing out practice of using chemicals in other town parks. 3.12.1(D). The Darien Pollinator Pathway has a robust following on Instagram; posts frequently about the importance of pollinators, cautions residents against using pesticides and other chemicals on their lawns, encourages installation of native species, conversion of some lawn to a more natural state, etc. 3.12.1(E). One example of a multitude of posts by the Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability encouraging residents to adopt pollinator-friendly habits. Posts are generally replicated across the Committee's other social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram). 3.12.2(A). An overview of pollinator gardens/habitats on town property or established in collaboration with the town. 3.12.2(B). Photo of Habitat Hill, a pollinator garden located on either side of the staircase leading from Town Hall to the Mather Center. 3.12.2(C). Article in local paper publicizes the pollinator garden installed at Darien Town Hall. 3.12.2(D). Pollinator garden installed near the Veterans' Memorial in front of Darien Town Hall. 3.12.2(E). One of two gardens on the southbound side of the Noroton Heights Railroad Station that, as funding permits, the Beautification Commission has been transitioning to native plants. 3.12.2(F). Article in local magazine by Darien Pollinator Pathway co-chairs describes how they transformed a grassy/weedy area at Tilley Pond Park into a pollinator garden. 3.12.2(G). Press release announcing Tree Planting Day at Darien Town Hall, planned for 10/2/21; also posted on the town website under "news." 3.12.2(H). Photo taken July 2022 shows approximately 8 of the 30+ native trees that were planted at Darien Town Hall on 10/2/21. Wire cages protect trees as they are established; this lawn area of town hall is being treated with organic products only. 3.12.2(I). Screenshot from Darien Pollinator Pathway's Instagram account showing some of the many volunteers who helped plant native trees at Cherry Lawn Park on June 4, 2022. 3.12.2(J). Article in local paper announcing the award of a $92K state grant used to install a series of pollinator gardens at the 16-acre Highland Farm. 3.12.2(K). Screenshot from the landscape architect's Highland Farm Improvement Project plans, dated 7/21/21; pollinator gardens are indicated by green arrows. Plan also shows proposed location of several native trees. 3.12.2(M). Screenshot from Darien Library's Instagram account publicizing its pollinator garden. Posting is from June 2021.

    Partners: 3.12.1 (provide education): Darien Library: town funds the Library's operating expenses. Darien Nature Center: located on town property. Darien Pollinator Pathway: an entity that grew out of several town organizations, including the Nature Center and Library; the DPP works closely with the Beautification Commission, Parks & Recreation Commission and staff, and the Department of Public Works. 3.12.2 (create pollinator gardens): Garden Club of Darien: provided funds for the pollinator garden (Veterans' Memorial Circle) in front of Darien Town Hall. Commuter Action Group: provided funds to help install pollinator gardens at the Noroton Heights Railroad Station (southbound side). One Tree Planted: non-profit provided two separate grants to the Darien Pollinator Pathway for planting native trees and shrubs.

    Additional Information: A few times a year the Darien Pollinator Pathway also holds a native plant sale which is advertised via social media and email. Residents are able to purchase native plants at very reasonable rates and they generally sell out very quickly! This is just one more way that residents are coming to understand the importance of - and adopting - native plants. For the past few years a number of high school seniors have chosen to work with the Darien Pollinator Pathway during their "internship" month of May (four in 2021; six in 2022). These interns work full days, every day, and while they are helping to remove invasive species, plant trees and shrubs, add mulch to beds, etc., they are learning a lot - which they reportedly share with their families. This year's group enjoyed their work so much that most of them came back to help with the tree planting event at Cherry Lawn on June 4th even though the internship had ended!

  • 4. Vibrant and Creative Cultural Ecosystems

    4.1 Inventory Tourism and Cultural Assets

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 4.1.1 Cultural Asset Map (10 points) 4.1.2 Update Your Profile on CTVisit (5 points), Updated 2022

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: This is a screen shot of the Darien, CT page on Visit CT website.

    Partners: Our committee worked with Jean Hebert of CTVisit website to update and implement the addition of hyperlinks to town social media portals. We also worked with Linda O'Leary from the Town of Darien to include a hyperlink to the CTVisit website.

    Additional Information: Hyperlink to Darien CTVISIT Page: http://www.ctvisit.com/listings/town-darien Hyperlink to CTVisit on Town Website: http://www.darienct.gov/about-darien-ct Hyperlink to Darien social media platforms: http://www.ctvisit.com/listings/town-darien We established a hyperlink to the Town of Darien Website to the CTVisit website and included social media outlets and link in the CTVisit platform.

    4.2 Support Arts and Creative Culture

    10 Points

    Approved Information: 4.2.2: Include arts and culture in publicly available municipal marketing 4.2.3: Commit dedicated funding to the arts 4.2.10 Option 1: Support arts and cultural activities offered at the local libraries (10 points total)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 4.2.3: Document "4.2.3 Municipal Funding for the Arts Write-Up" is an explanation of how the town funds arts and culture through their funding of the Senior Center. Documents "4.2.2 Senior Center Newsletter June 2022" , "4.2.2 Senior Center Newsletter July 2022", and "4.2.2 Senior Center Newsletter August 2022" are examples of the art and culture programs offered by the Senior Center.

    Partners: The town works with the Mathers Senior Center for funding and art and culture programs for Darien residents over the age of 55. The town works with the Darien Library in providing art and culture opportunities to all its residents. See attached documents for more detail.

  • 5. Dynamic and Resilient Planning

    5.1 Integrate Sustainability into Plan of Conservation and Development

    30 Points

    Approved Information: 5.1.a Include at least four Hazard Mitigation Plan goals (5 points) 5.1.b Incorporate at least three sustainability concepts + one bonus (25 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 5.1 PDF of Plan of Conservation and Development 5.1.a. Worksheet 1 indicating how at least TWO Hazard Mitigation Plan goals were incorporated into the POCD. Note BOLD sections indicating confirmation of floodplain mapping and reducing hazards in floodplains. 5.1.b. Worksheet 2 indicating how FOUR sustainability concepts were incorporated into the POCD. Worksheet 2 is entirely different than the prior application and includes 'In Action' examples of how the town has been implementing those four sustainable concepts from the POCD. 5.1.b. Sewer Commission agendas from March through July of 2022 indicating recent action on sustainable concepts from the POCD as discussed in Worksheet 2. 5.1.b. SSES Report cover page and table of contents from March 2022 indicating recent action on sustainable concepts from the POCD as discussed in Worksheet 2. 5.1.b. RTM Minutes from June 2-22 regarding the purchase of Great Island indicating recent action on sustainable concepts from the POCD as discussed in Worksheet 2. 5.1.b. Zoning Map and Zoning Regulation Amendments from 2019 through 2022 indicating recent action on sustainable concepts from the POCD as discussed in Worksheet 2.

    Partners: Planning & Zoning Commission Town Planner

    5.5 Inventory and Assess Historic Resources

    35 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: Action- 5.5.1 Inventory and Assess Historic Resources-15 points Action 5.5.2 Access the Viability of an Historic asset - 20 points

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Darien 2016 Plan of Conservation and Development, specifically pages 1-3, 33-43, 47-57 are relevant. It is split into 3 parts.

    Partners: 5.5.1 The Museum of Darien was partnered with in securing some of the details on the properties. We partnered with The Mather Homestead to complete 5.5.2.

    Additional Information: N/A

  • 6. Clean and Diverse Transportation Systems and Choices

    6.2 Promote Effective Parking Management

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 6.2.2.b. Implement Regulatory Parking Management Strategies (20 Points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 6.2.2.b. Regulation Amendment 1-2019 resulted in a reduction of required parking by 25% for "retail, commercial sales and services, or personal service businesses" from 1 space for each 150sf of floor area to 1 space for each 200sf of floor area; and the creation of a Quick-Service Restaurant category that effectively reduced the parking requirement for that category by a third from 1 space for each 100sf of floor area to 1 space for each 150sf of floor area. 6.2.2.b. Regulation Amendment 3-2021 resulted in a reduction of required parking for multi-family residential dwellings from 2.5 spaces for each dwelling unit regardless of size or type to 1 space for studios, 1.5 spaces for one-bedroom apartments, and 2 spaces for two-bedroom apartments. The adoption of the regulations above reduced the amount of required parking for several uses which results in smaller parking lots and less asphalt and less impervious surface.

    Partners: Planning and Zoning

    Additional Information: 6.2.2.b Darien previously reduced the required size of a parking stall by 10% from 9'X20' to 9'X18' in October of 2017; and has had a Joint Parking reduction regulation for mixed-used developments since 2016.

    6.4 Support Zero Emission Vehicle Deployment

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 6.4.2 Have at least one municipal elected official and/or staff member and/or member of a relevant commission participate in a training related to electrification of municipal vehicles. (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Each document is a single page, self explanatory

    Partners: None

    Additional Information: This was the first exposure to the availability of EV police vehicles to the staff here in Darien. One attendee remarked "It was helpful, providing our town with a contact in Connecticut and a better understanding of the application of EVs in municipal fleets and police departments such as fly cars or staff inspection vehicles.".

  • 7. Renewable and Efficient Energy Infrastructure and Operations

    7.9 Participate in and Promote the C-PACE Program

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 2.6.2. Encourage local building owners to access C-PACE financing (10 points). 2.6.3. Earn credit for C-PACE projects approved by the CT Green Bank for commercial buildings undertaking clean energy improvements on their property. (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 2.6.2.a. Powerpoint created by Christina Tsitso, Associate, Financing Programs, CT Green Bank for a virtual informational meeting with Darien on 11/17/21. Representing Darien was Carolyn Bayne, Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability. Also in attendance were Alyssa Lembo-Buzzelli and Emily Basham, both of the CT Green Bank. 2.6.2.b. Verification from the CT Green Bank that for the Fall 2022 certification cycle Darien completed actions necessary to encourage local building owners to access C-PACE financing. These actions included meeting with representatives from the Green Bank, forwarding a list created by the town assessor using parameters as indicated by Green Bank representatives as well as additional potential candidates identified for C-PACE financing. A description of the C-PACE program was also added to the link on the town website, and a link for C-PACE was added to the Darien Chamber of Commerce's website. C-PACE was also promoted via social and other media. 2.6.2.c (A). Darien Building Department webpage with C-PACE description and link. 2.6.2.c (B). Darien Chamber of Commerce "Business Resources" webpage with link for Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE). 2.6.2.c (C). Screenshot from Instagram account maintained by the Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability promoting the C-PACE program. This is one example of several promotional posts that appeared on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter between November 2021, the initial meeting with CT Green Bank representatives, and July 2022. 2.6.2.c (D). Promotional article on C-PACE published in online news outlet. The same article was also submitted to the local paper, The Darien Times, as a Letter to Editor on 7/25/22. 2.6.3 C-PACE projects in Darien provided by CT Green Bank lists three C-PACE projects approved/completed in the relevant timeframe (since 1/1/19). 2.6.2.c (E). LTE submitted to Darien local paper promoting C-PACE program; same letter was published in The Stamford Advocate, neighboring town's paper on 8/4/22.

    Partners: 2.6.2 (Encourage local building owners to access the C-PACE program): CT Green Bank Private Building Owners Darien Chamber of Commerce 2.6.3 (approved C-PACE projects): CT Green Bank

    Additional Information: Darien Building Department webpage with C-PACE description and link: http://www.darienct.gov/content/28025/28537/default.aspx Darien Chamber of Commerce "Business Resources" webpage with link for Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE): https://www.darienctchamber.com/discover/business-resources/ We continue to work with the Chamber to publicize C-PACE: an informational piece was recently submitted for an upcoming e-newsletter and an offer to facilitate a meeting between members of the Chamber and the CT Green Bank.

    7.1 Benchmark and Track Energy Use

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 7.1.1: Track Energy Use in Municipal and Board of Education Buildings (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 7.1.1: Data request generated through the Energy Star Portfolio Manager on 07/07/22 (report for 28 properties). Response sent to Lynn Stoddard, Sustainable CT, 83 Wyndham Street, Wyndham, CT 06226 by Anthony Campanella (on behalf of Ed Gentile, Director Public Works), Town of Darien, 2 Renshaw Road, Darien CT 06820.

    Partners: 7.1.1 (Track Energy Use): UConn's SmartBuildingCT program: Engineering faculty (Dr. Amy Thompson) and members of her team provided energy benchmarking and tracking support for Darien's municipal and BOE buildings: - assisted in updating the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager; - reviewed data; - submitted data request report for 28 properties to be sent to Sustainable CT on behalf of the Town of Darien; - generated benchmarking reports for ENERGY STAR qualified buildings (4)

    7.3 Achieve High Energy Performance for Individual Buildings

    20 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 7.3.1 Achieve an Energy Efficiency or High Performance Target in Buildings (20 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 7.3.1 (A). Darien Connecticut Town Hall, 2 Renshaw Road, Darien, CT 06820; year ending 4/30/22, with an ENERGY STAR score of 75. Application has been verified and stamped by a Licensed Professional (Vinay Ananthachar, Green Banyan Consulting) on 7/26/22. 7.3.1 (B). Darien Holmes Elementary School, 18 Hoyt Street, Darien, CT 06820; year ending 5/31/22, with an ENERGY STAR score of 79. Application has been verified and stamped by a Licensed Professional (Vinay Ananthachar, Green Banyan Consulting) on 8/1/22. 7.3.1 (C). Darien Royle Elementary School, 133 Mansfield Avenue, Darien, CT 06820; year ending 5/31/22, with an ENERGY STAR score of 78. Application has been verified and stamped by a Licensed Professional (Vinay Ananthachar, Green Banyan Consulting) on 8/2/22. 7.3.1 (D). Darien Middlesex Middle School, 204 Hollow Tree Ridge Road, Darien, CT 06820; year ending 6/30/22, with an ENERGY STAR score of 81. Application has been verified and stamped by a Licensed Professional (Vinay Ananthachar, Green Banyan Consulting) on 8/2/22. 7.3.1 (E). Screenshot showing that Town of Darien owns four (4) buildings that have been ENERGY STAR certified: Middlesex Middle School, Holmes Elementary School, Royle School, Darien Town Hall. Link: https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/certified_buildings_and_plants

    Partners: 7.3.1 (Achieve high energy performance for individual buildings): Dr. Amy Thompson, Associate Director, UConn Institute for Advanced System’s Engineering; Operations Director, UConn DOE IAC; Director, Smart Buildings CT. Dr. Thompson and her team: - evaluated the Town of Darien's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager and identified four (4) buildings eligible for ENERGY STAR Certification; - generated and completed ENERGY STAR Application for Certification for the four (4) buildings; - coordinated process by which Darien's buildings were verified by a licensed professional; - forwarded the verified applications to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for certification. 7.3.1 (Achieve high energy performance for individual buildings): Sustainable CT program that provided for licensed professional to verify applications; 7.3.1 (Achieve high energy performance for individual buildings): U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ENERGY STAR program

    Additional Information: Update 8/21/22: Town of Darien recently notified that all four (4) buildings were certified by the EPA. Screenshot of EPA website attached; link for website: https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/certified_buildings_and_plants

  • 8. Inclusive Engagement, Communication and Education

    8.1 Hold a Sustainability Event

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 8.1.1 Hold a sustainability event (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Partners: 8.1 (sustainability events): there are several partners, and they vary by event. Please refer to completed spreadsheet or narrative.

    Additional Information: 1) This is a sampling of sustainable events held in Darien since 1/01/19. 2) A few of the events on this list are also mentioned in other areas of the application. They include: - Tree Planting Day (10/02/21) is included in Action Item 3.12.1; - Compost Giveaway (4/23/22 and 4/30/22) included in "Additional Information" for Action Item 9.4.2; - Spring Cleanup of Darien Nature Center (5/21/22) included in Action Item 3.10.3b; - Household Hazardous Waste Day (6/4/22 and 6/5/21) included in Action Item 8.5.2; - Native Tree Planting at Cherry Lawn Park (6/4/22) included in Action Item 3.12.1; - Weeding in the Garden of Good & Evil (6/09/22) included in Action Item 3.10.3b.

    8.2 Provide Effective Community Communications

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 8.2.1. Provide Effective Community Communications (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Partners: None

    Additional Information: The position of Media Relations Manager was defined and approved in late 2021 and filled in early 2022. The role of the MRM is to develop and administer a program fostering public understanding of the Town’s goals, policies, programs and services by creating and enabling accurate, clear and concise communication between the Town and both the news media and the general public. An inventory of town communications channels and a plan to disseminate information through multiple platforms has been established and is ongoing.

    8.3 Train Municipal Representatives

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 8.3.1a. Send one or more commissioner from Inland Wetlands and Planning & Zoning to a relevant training (5 points). 8.3.1b. Send two or more commissioners from two or more different commissions (excluding IWWC and P&Z) to a relevant training (5 points). 8.3.1c. Send three or more Planning & Zoning commissioners to a training on a housing-related topic (5 points).

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 8.3.1a. Relevant trainings attended by commissioners on Environmental Protection and Planning & Zoning. 8.3.1b. Relevant trainings attended by representatives of various boards/committees/commissions other than Environmental Protection and Planning & Zoning. 8.3.1c. Housing-related training attended by 3+ Planning & Zoning commissioners; as per Jeremy Ginsberg, Director Planning & Zoning, the March 6, 2021 CT Bar Association training included a segment on housing.

    Partners: 8.3.1a (train IWWC and P&Z commissioners): varies; see organizations listed on chart; 8.3.1b (train commissioners/committee members): varies; see organizations listed on chart; 8.3.1c (train P&Z commissioners on housing-related topic): CT Bar Association

    Additional Information: The "Environmental Protection Commission" named above is Darien's Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission.

    8.5 Engage in a Sustainable CT Mentorship with Other Municipalities

    25 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 8.5.1: Mentor, or seek a mentorship with, other towns on implementation of specific Sustainable CT actions (15 points). 8.5.2: Implement Sustainable CT actions regionally (10 points).

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 8.5.1 (A). Worksheet 1 completed to detail Darien's participation in mentoring or acting as mentee to other towns on implementation of specific Sustainable CT actions (3 cases). 8.5.1 (C). Sample email/photos of Darien mentoring New Canaan over a 3-4 year period (2019-2022) to establish a Swap Shop. 8.5.1 (D) Powerpoint created by member of the Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability on its food scrap recycling program for a meeting with Easton's Energy & Environmental Task Force on 9/16/20. Powerpoint was subsequently forwarded to the group. 8.5.1 (E). Sample email/photos of Darien working with a multitude of different municipalities wanting to learn more about Darien's food scrap recycling program; 2018 - 2021. 8.5.2 (A). Worksheet 2 completed to detail Darien's participation with other towns or regional organizations in the inventory, planning or implementation of Sustainable CT actions. 8.5.2 (C): For a list of participating municipalities/organizations, scroll down to "Participant Sampling Areas" ( right column) 8.5.2 (E). Most recent RFP issued by City of Norwalk's Department of Public Works on behalf of seven (7) Southwestern Fairfield County communities working collaboratively to collect residential household hazardous waste. Establishes a reciprocal arrangement whereby residents of any town may participate in the one-day events of any of the other towns (see red highlighting for description of the arrangement, p. 3, a sample "HHW Collection Event" form, p. 36, and a schedule of HHW collection days for 2021, p. 37). 8.5.2 (F): CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection website showing Household Hazardous Waste collection dates for 2022. Darien is listed as participating with Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, and Westport (see red arrow). Note that since joining HRRA, Weston and Wilton are no longer part of this collaboration. 8.5.2 (G): Town of Darien's 2022 HHWD instructions detailing "What to Bring," "What Not to Bring," a map of the collection area, and a list of participating towns that can bring household hazardous waste materials (p.3). There is a link for these instructions on the town website: http://www.darienct.gov/content/28025/28549/28551/default.aspx 8.5.2(H). CT DEEP website of past webinars/workshops; on April 5, 2021 Carolyn Bayne, Town of Darien, participated in CCSMM Learning Series webinar entitled "Collecting Food Scraps in Town" (scroll to red highlighting). Presentation was coordinated with representative from Greenwich, who also presented. 8.5.2 (I). The CCSMM has several working groups, including one to increase recycling. Carolyn Bayne, Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability, was asked to present on Darien's Food Scrap Recycling Program at an "Increase Recycling Working Group" webinar on October 14, 2020 (see red highlighting).

    Partners: 8.5.1 (Mentor): Representatives from cities/towns of Easton, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Rowayton, Salisbury-Sharon, Stamford, Trumbull, Westport, Wilton. 8.5.2 (Community based research/Unified Water Study): Save the Sound 8.5.2 (HHW Collaboration): Towns/Cities of Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, Westport 8.5.2 (Promote implementation of food scrap program): Connecticut Coalition of Sustainable Materials Management (CCSMM)

    Additional Information: Collaborative support also provided via social media posts (@Darien Recycling Center) whenever a town or city announced news of its food scrap program, HHW collection event, update on Swap Shop, etc. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarienRecyclingCenter Twitter: https://twitter.com/DarienRecycles Other collaborations that do not meet the requirements of this action should also be noted: 1) Darien participated with several other municipalities (organized through the CT Product Stewardship Council) in seeking state legislative action to extend producer responsibility for propane canisters (2020, 2021, 2022); 2) At Darien's request, Wilton Go Green shared resources for its "Do One Thing" campaign with the Darien Nature Center (2021), including graphic design support; 3) Environmental groups in Greenwich shared extensive background information and other resources with Darien (2022) on gas-powered leaf blowers.

  • 9. Strategic Materials Management

    9.3 Recycle Additional Materials

    40 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 9.3: Recycle Additional Materials (40 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 9.3 (A): Overview of 4 non-mandated materials that Darien residents are easily able to recycle; in addition, includes a discussion of the Swap Shop which is a municipal reuse program. 9.3 (B): Report filed with CT DEEP by Darien DPW for FY21; non-mandated materials collected and recycled are highlighted in red. Note that FY21 report was submitted because FY22 report has not been filed as of 8/15/22. 9.3 (C): Tonnages of materials collected and recycled by Town of Darien for FY22 as reflected in the transfer station logs. These quantities will be used to complete the Annual Municipal Recycling Report for FY22 which will soon be submitted to CT DEEP. Quantities for the 4 non-mandated materials in this report are underlined in red. 9.3 (D): Recycling Center webpage on the town website contains links to announcements/information on recycling mattresses, paint, and smoke detectors. Also noted here is the link to "What & How to Recycle at the Darien Recycling Center" (see 9.3 Q). 9.3 (M): Letter to Editor mentioned in the post publicizes the availability of a residential recycling program for smoke detectors and explains why it's important; author notes that Darien was the first community in CT to receive approval from the CT DEEP to establish a recycling program for smoke detectors. 9.3 (P): Minutes from Darien's Board of Finance reflect a transfer of funds to cover the cost of a tent to house the Swap Shop. Six years later the town applied for and received a grant from CT DEEP to create a more permanent structure. 9.3 (Q): This document is mailed to residents with all new or renewed annual permits (April/May/June 2022) and lists everything that can be recycled at the Darien Recycling Center (the 5 materials discussed in this report are highlighted in red); copies are also available at the counter of the Public Works Office, and it is also available online: http://www.darienct.gov/content/28025/28549/28551/default.aspx. 9.3 (R): Article in local paper with lots of comments from residents about the Swap Shop. 9.3 (S): Article in local magazine highlighting the history of the Swap Shop and what it is best used for.

    Partners: 9.3 (recycle additional materials): The Town of Darien has partnered with the following non-profits and businesses to offer recycling of non-mandated materials to its residents: 1) Bye Bye Mattress/Mattress Recycling Council - hauling subcontracted to Oak Ridge Waste & Recycling (no charge - extended producer responsibility); 2) PaintCare - subcontracts hauling and recycling to Clean Harbors of CT, Inc. (no charge - extended producer responsibility); 3) USagain (town is paid a fee per ton of textiles); 4) Curie Environmental Services (town pays a fee per container filled)

    9.4 Reduce and Compost Organic Waste

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 9.4.1: Implement an ongoing food waste prevention campaign (5 points) 9.4.2: Implement a food scraps recovery program (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 9.4.1 (A): Overview of steps taken to encourage Darien residents to minimize food waste. 9.4.1 (B): Screenshot from the Darien Health Department website which includes a link for resources to minimize and reduce food waste. 9.4.1 (C): Screenshots of social media posts by the Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability (posting as "Darien Recycling Center") encouraging residents by various means to reduce food waste. 9.4.1 (D): Article on reducing food waste, written by a member of the Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability. 9.4.2 (A): Overview of Darien's Food Scrap Recycling Program. 9.4.2 (B): Annual report filed with CT DEEP shows that in FY21 41.77 tons of food scraps were recycled; hauling subtracted by City Carting to Curbside Compost. (Note: FY21 report is included as the FY22 report is not yet available). 9.4.2 (C): Report from City Carting shows that 39.07 tons of food scraps were recycled in FY22; this data will be submitted in the FY22 Annual Municipal Recycling Report to CT DEEP. 9.4.2 (D): Summary of meeting between Carolyn Bayne, Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability Chair, and David Knauf, Darien Health Director, on July 20, 2022 to discuss Darien's food scrap program and to ensure that there is a balance between the goals of the program and public health concerns. 9.4.2 (E): Screenshot of the Darien Department of Public Works Recycling Center website which includes a link to the town's Food Scrap Recycling Guide. 9.4.2 (F): Screenshot of the Darien Advisory Committee on Sustainability's website which includes a link to the town's Food Scrap Recycling Guide. 9.4.2 (G): This guide explains how Darien's Food Scrap Recycling Program works. It is included in food scrap collection kits sold to residents, is available through he Department of Public Works office and is available online at darienct.gov (both Department of Public Works and Advisory Committee on Sustainability). 9.4.2 (H): Brochure that accompanies every new and renewed permit for the Recycling Center; shows that there is a drop-off for food scraps. This brochure is also available in the Public Works office and on the town website: http://www.darienct.gov/filestorage/28565/28567/29165/29202/PublicWorks_Trifold_Rev.2022-5.pdf 9.4.2 (I): Insert mailed with annual tax bills, June 2022. Describes everything a resident needs to know to participate in the food scrap program. These inserts are also available in the Public Works office and Darien Health Department. 9.4.2 (J): Parks & Rec Spring/Summer 2022 catalog mailed to all Darien residences; the inside of the back cover (p. 25) includes a small poster highlighting the food scrap program. 9.4.2 (K): Article in local paper discussing the first year of Darien's food scrap program. 9.4.2 (L): Article in local magazine delivered to more than half the homes in Darien. 9.4.2 (M): Screenshot of a sample social media post (from Twitter) publicizing the food scrap program and directing residents to the town's website for more information. The program is regularly publicized on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 9.4.2 (N): Poster created for the Advisory Committee on Sustainability's participation in the Darien Nature Center's "Spring into Nature" Earth Day event, held in 2021 and 2022. A table was set up where committee members could discuss various ways to compost food waste: the town's drop-off program, home composting, and a fee-based home pickup service. Event participants were able to see and feel actual compost and examine a couple of different types of home composting bins.

    Partners: 9.4.1 (food waste prevention campaign): None 9.4.2 (food scraps recovery program): In 2018 Darien was awarded an Innovation Grant ($8,460) from Recycle CT to launch the food scrap program; when setting up our program we also received lots of advice and support (sourcing of materials, templates, etc.) from members of in Scarsdale, New York's Sustainability Committee. More recently, the Darien Pollinator Pathway has helped publicize our program by purchasing food scrap kits to raffle off at events, and the Darien Beautification Commission helped purchase compost and supplied volunteers for our compost giveaway in April 2022.

    Additional Information: Though Darien's food waste prevention campaign has been targeted mostly to adult residents, which is the target sector for 9.4.1, there is potential to expand it to two important populations: school-aged children and restaurants. As we also explore the possibility of expanding the food scrap recycling program to these sectors, we would simultaneously provide information, strategies and justification for reducing food waste. Some very preliminary research has been done; the hope is to continue learning from others who have successfully implemented food waste prevention and recovery campaigns in these sectors and to begin to identify partners within our own community who can help. Note: The survey at "The Royle", mentioned in 9.4.2 (A) is discussed further in Action Item 1.1D. A compost "giveaway" was held over two Saturdays in April 2022 to demonstrate to residents the benefits of composting food waste. 20 cubic yards of compost were purchased from New Milford Farms and residents - whether they participate in the program or not - were invited to take home a few buckets. It was a way of thanking program participants and hopefully enticing others to consider recycling their food scraps. More on this giveaway is found in Action 8.1. The success of Darien's Food Scrap Recycling Program spurred interest in neighboring communities; over the past 3-1/2 years we have had inquiries from several and have had detailed discussions and conducted tours with some of them. We are always available and happy to discuss this program! Darien Recycling Center Twitter ( Social Media Outreach) : https://twitter.com/DarienRecycles Darien Recycling Center Facebook (Social Media Outreach): https://www.facebook.com/DarienRecyclingCenter Darien Recycling Center Instagram (Social Media Outreach): https://www.instagram.com/darienrecyclingcenter/

  • 10. Optimal Health and Wellness Opportunities

    10.4 Develop and Promote Community Growing Spaces

    15 Points

    Approved Information: 10.4: Develop and Promote Community Growing Spaces (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 10.4.1. Parks & Recreation webpage, found on the Town website, that describes Cherry Lawn Park with mention of the Community Gardens. A link to Cherry Lawn Community Gardens is found on the left. 10.4.2. The Cherry Lawn Community Gardens webpage is found via a link on the Town website: www.darienct.gov (click on "Departments & Services, then "Parks & Recreation). The webpage gives a full description of the program. 10.4.3. The Parks & Recreation catalog is mailed to all residents twice/year and is available on the Town website. Page 3 of the Spring/Summer 2022 catalog promotes the Community Gardens. 10.4.4. A brief overview of Cherry Lawn Community Gardens, with quotes from several residents who maintain gardens there. There is a drone photo showing an aerial view of the gardens. 10.4.5. Image of Cherry Lawn Community Gardens (June 2022). 10.4.6. One resident, who shares this garden with her sister, discusses the joy she has experienced through gardening. 10.4.7. A bulletin board at Cherry Lawn Community Gardens is a convenient location to share gardening tips. 10.4.8. Schematic posted at Cherry Lawn Community Gardens shows the location of all plots, location of shed, etc.. This was posted in 2018 but is still current.

    Partners: 10.4 (promote community growing spaces): Cherry Lawn Community Gardens was established by the Darien Community Association Garden Club in the early 1970's, but is now self-administered by the Cherry Lawn Garden Coordinating Committee (members listed in document 10.4.2, above). Cherry Lawn Community Gardens is located on municipal property at Cherry Lawn Park. The program is co-sponsored by the Darien Parks & Recreation Department, which helps with maintenance, program promotion, and conducts annual mailings for renewals.

    Additional Information: Cherry Lawn Community Gardens is a well-known, popular, program in Darien, CT with 60 garden plots of varying sizes. Only organic methods are permitted and tilling is done by hand. There are tools available for gardeners to use, including wheelbarrows. One plot is dedicated to bee hives which help pollinate the plants in the gardens, as well as plants within five miles. Current gardeners have the option to renew each year, and although there is currently a waiting list of 30 residents, there are new gardeners each year (5 in 2021 and 3+ in 2022). Surplus produce is harvested and donated to Person-to-Person (local nonprofit), and the Mather Center (senior center).

  • 11. Healthy, Efficient and Diverse Housing

    11.2 Grow Sustainable and Affordable Housing Options

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 11.2.2: Increase your municipality’s affordable housing, as compared to a baseline year within the past 5 years. (10 Points) 11.2.3: Commit dedicated funding to affordable housing development. (10 Points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 11.2.2 On page two of each Affordable Housing Appeals List, the row for Darien is highlighted. The 2020 Appeals List (baseline year) indicates a percent affordable of 3.56%. The 2021 Appeals List (most current year) indicates a percent affordable of 3.97%. That is an increase of 0.41% which qualifies the town for 10 points in this category. 11.2.3 The Town of Darien transferred $363,851.46 to the Darien Housing Authority on 08/21/2019 allocated to the construction of 55-unit affordable housing development called The Royle at 719 Boston Post Road in Darien.

    Partners: None

    11.3 Implement Policy for Sustainable, Diverse Housing Options

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 11.3.4 At least 10% of all housing units in developments of more than 5 units are required to be affordable. (20 Points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Page V-36 Section 582, Applicability: Applies to all zones that allow dwelling units which is the vast majority of the zoning districts in town. Section 583, Affordable Requirements: When creating FOUR or more dwelling units, 14% must be affordable to those making equal to or less than 80% of the State Median Income using the maximum housing payment calculations outlined in Section 8-30g-8 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies (Section 584). Page V-37 Section 585, Incentives: There is a 50% density bonus and other zoning bonuses for providing more than the minimum number of affordable units. However, this does not require at least 20% of the units to be affordable, so we are basing our qualification for this action on the 14% requirement noted above.

    Partners: Planning & Zoning

  • 12. Effective, Compassionate Homelessness Prevention

    12.1 Strengthen Municipal Workforce Capacity to Address Homelessness

    20 Points

    Approved Information: 12.1.1.a Designate and train a municipal representative on homeless (5 points) 12.1.1.b Have your designated municipal liaison for homelessness participate in one or more trainings (5 points) 12.1.2 municipal Task Force (10 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 12.1.1.a and b Homelessness Prevention contains an overview as well as specific actions taken. 12.1.1.a Director of Human Services has especially relevant portions highlighted in yellow. 12.1.1.a. Town Web Site is a screen shot of the relevant page of our town's site. The link is http://darienct.gov/content/28025/28555/default.aspx.

    Partners: 12.1.1.a. and b. involved working with the CT Coalition to End Homelessness and especially with The Housing Collective as manager of our regional CAN.

    Additional Information: Below the first check relates to the establishment of a Director of Human Services with remit to, inter alia, support residents facing potential homelessness. The second check refers to joining the CAN, making the relevant contacts and learning about additional resources. Training falls under this check.

    12.3 Collect and Share Homelessness Data

    5 Points

    CT Success Story

    Approved Information: 12.3.1 - have your homelessness municipal liaison compile collected information on all individuals and families in your municipality experiencing literal homelessness (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: These documents are self explanatory.

    Partners: This action was undertaken by the town's Human Services Department.

    Additional Information: Following the email correspondence with Ryan Beech at CCEH there was a follow-up phone conversation where Ryan Beech confirmed

    12.4 Provide or Mobilize Resources to Address Homelessness

    5 Points

    Approved Information: 12.4.1 Commit dedicated funding to directly address and prevent homelessness. Funding would ideally be directed as part of the municipal budget. (10 points) 12.4.2 Ensure that individuals experiencing literal homelessness within your municipality have locations where they can safely access services and stay 24 hours a day, especially in extreme weather. (5 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: Action 12.4 narrative covering 12.4.1 and 12.4.2 does not require any page numbers or notes. Action 12.4.1 Exhibit evidence of DCF funding Emergency Assistance Program: This screen grab comes from the DCF annual report, page 24. DCF raises this support directly into a special account. It does not flow through the DCF budget, Action 12.4.1 exhibit - email from Ed of Darien Community Fund attesting to support of emergency assistance program administered by Dept of Human Services Action 12.4.1 exhibit - attachment to ED's email Action 12.4.2 exhibit on emergency shelters: the description of how shelters might be needed is excerpted from page ESF 6 - 11 and quoted in the narrative. The descriptions of the shelters starts on page ESF 6 - 45

    Partners: 12.4.1 Funding to keep residents in their homes: Partners: Darien Community Fund and United Way of Coastal Fairfield County. 12.4.2 Shelters: partners include the whole state system for homeless shelters. Partners for the short term emergency shelters include the Darien Fire and Police Departments, the Darien Board of Education, the Dept of Human Services and the First Selectman. Beyond our town, partners include the Red Cross and Dept of Homeland Security and neighboring towns. The latter have agreed to provide supplementary beds/shelter.

  • 13. Innovative Strategies and Practices

    13.1 Implement Your Own Sustainability Action

    25 Points

    Approved Information: 13.1A: Innovative Sustainability Action: Develop and implement a Buddy Program to enhance and expand Darien Parks and Recreation youth program offerings.(15 points). Implemented in connection with 1.1B Optimize for Equity. 13.1B: Innovative Sustainability Action: Slow Down in Town (15 points)

    Supporting Documentation:

    Documentation Details: 13.1A. 1 All Abilities Buddy Program Narrative 13.1A. 2 ParkRec Buddy Program 2022 Spring/Summer Catalog: PDF pg.1_catalog cover announces New Buddy Programs. PDF .2_mentions return from pandemic. PDF pg.3_highlights the All Abilities Buddy Programs. PDF pg.4-8_describes All Ability course details. 13.1A. 3 Buddly Leader Job Description is self explanatory 13.1B 1 Slow Down in Town Narrative 13.1B 2 Five exhibits combined in one document: mission statement, Town Website, FaceBook, Patch, Instagram

    Partners: 13.1A: The Parks and Recreation Department with input from the Darien Youth Director collaborated with multiple partners to identify and implement the Buddy Programs, as part of the Town's general youth offerings: Project Buddy Up, The Darien Depot, Noroton Presbyterian Church, and A Better Chance_Darien have assisted to develop a network of volunteers, define their roles and responsibilities and provide initial training. These efforts are ongoing and coordinated with the town and staff who schedule and implement the youth programs. 13.1B: Slow Down in Town: This program was a collaboration among the Police Department, the Board of Selectmen, the Police Commission, Post 53 (town ambulance service), the Representative Town Meeting and volunteers (e.g. school children).

    Additional Information: The All-Abilities Buddy Program, offered through the Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with Project Buddy Up and other community organizations, addresses the social and emotional wellbeing of children by expanding access to recreational programs. The addition of a teen buddy to select Parks and Rec offerings expands the reach of these offerings and enables inclusivity without separation. Furthermore, the program provides a unique opportunity for older youth to volunteer, expand their social interaction skills, develop other valuable skills, and make a difference in the lives of others in their community.