Denise Raap Statement continued:

We are proud to share that we have received substantial grants over these past four years. STEAP (Small Town Economic Assistance Program) grants totaling over $1,100,000, a $1,000,000 Small Cities Grant for Bantam Falls Senior Housing upgrades, $138,000 for EV Car Chargers, $225,000 for the Northfield Firehouse and $38,000 to manage our Municipal Bus for our Seniors and Disabled. These grants have enabled us to bolster the town’s infrastructure improvements, enhance public services, and improve the quality of life for all residents.

Recognizing the importance of effective communication, we have launched digital platforms to foster greater engagement and transparency. Since taking office in 2019, I have managed the Town of Litchfield’s Instagram and Facebook pages, further strengthening our connection with the community and keeping residents informed and engaged in local matters. The Board of Selectmen Zoom meetings have allowed us to broaden participation, ensuring that every voice is heard. We have also seen increased attendance at our town meetings, fostering a stronger sense of civic engagement.

In line with our commitment to accessible, reliable broadband, we have supported the roll-out of high-speed internet access using American Rescue Plan funds. Access to reliable high-speed internet is essential in today's world, and by investing in this infrastructure, we are empowering our community to thrive in the digital age.

In December 2019, Litchfield joined Sustainable CT as the 90th Town. As a result of the efforts of many committed individuals, our dedication to sustainability has been recognized, modeled, and rewarded. In a short period of time, Sustainable Litchfield has achieved Bronze and Silver Awards, as well as Climate Leader designation from Sustainable CT. We have increased solar energy usage on municipal properties, reducing our carbon footprint, saving thousands of dollars per year in electricity costs, and leading by example in environmental stewardship. We have also implemented a Food Waste Diversion and Composting Program at our Recycling Center and in our schools to reduce food waste and to cut the costs of garbage disposal incurred by our residential taxpayers.I plan to continue serving as Co-Chair of the Connecticut Coalition of Sustainable Materials Management to support the initiatives that reduce waste, increase recycling and extend producer responsibility to reduce costs for all CT taxpayers.

Our community’s economic development has been greatly strengthened during the last four years. I personally remember the years in Litchfield when we experienced an economic downturn and several businesses were closed.  During those years, Litchfield lost its only bookstore, the Crutch & MacDonald Pharmacy, the Tip Top Store, Superior Foods, the Litchfield Grocer, the Litchfield Food Company, and several others that have come and gone.  Even the Village Restaurant, which I own today, was closed from 1990-1993. My administration has supported local businesses and the transformation of historic buildings into economic drivers. The 28 Russell Street project, led by the Litchfield Land Trust and supported by Town approved ARPA funds, has revitalized a once dilapidated railroad building, to now serve as operation bases for the Land Trust, Litchfield Hills Audubon Society, and by year’s end, the Friends of Litchfield Community Greenway, Rivers Alliance of CT, and the Litchfield Housing Trust. These endeavors have not only enhanced our town's charm but also fostered economic growth and community engagement. Looking back at our history, Litchfield  has always served as a hub of prosperous economic growth and as a travel destination. Memories of the Hotel Berkshire, Westleigh Inn, Gildersleeves and Kilravock are still shared and historical artifacts can still be found at our Litchfield Historical Society.   We will continue to foster well-planned, measurable growth that is in keeping with the town’s Plan of Conservation and  Development (adopted in 2017).

In the realm of technology and efficiency of municipal services, we have embraced online permitting and credit card processing, streamlining processes and increasing convenience for residents and businesses. Cybersecurity awareness and measures have been improved to safeguard our town's data and protect against digital threats.

We have dedicated ourselves to the well-being of our community, expanding park and recreation programs and human services through the establishment of a food pantry, veterans’ programs, transportation services, and educational lunch and learn sessions. In this next year, we will support the implementation of an After School program at the Bantam Annex to provide a safe, fun, and educational environment for our students. With the bi-partisan approval of Regional School#20, we are creating expanded academic, agricultural, athletic, cultural and arts opportunities for our students. I am excited to work with the Superintendent of Schools and the Reg#20 Board of Education to see the merger to the finish line. By completing our Affordable Housing Plan, we have taken tangible steps towards addressing the diverse housing needs of our residents, ensuring that Litchfield remains an inclusive, welcoming and vibrant community for all people. My administration has worked closely with the Litchfield Housing Trust and the Litchfield Housing Authority. Small Cities Sub Grants have been awarded by the town to both organizations to expand affordable housing opportunities as well as an American Rescue Plan award to purchase additional property to expand housing opportunities for our residents. 

As we look to the future, we are committed to infrastructure improvements at the Bantam Annex property, our Town Beach and Community Field using ARPA funds, Preservation Grants and Capital Investments. These town owned office and recreational spaces are essential for fostering a sense of community, promoting health and well-being, and creating lasting memories. I am also committed to focus my attention and energy to honor the spirit of our community and to renew my pledge to work together to foster community building events such as the July 4 the fireworks, the September 11th Ceremony to thank our First Responders and Volunteers, to support our Veterans, to acknowledge and honor our community volunteers and to work closely with and support our schools  and teachers by providing all the assets necessary for the best quality education.

We are devoted to building upon our successes, tackling new challenges, and ensuring that Litchfield remains fiscally responsible, economically and environmentally sustainable, and continues to be a great place to live and work. The preservation of our history, our small town character and natural resources will continue to guide me throughout this next term. I have used these last 4 years to gain valuable experience and to put forth my best in my service to this community. Be assured, I am ready to continue the work and focus my dedication to the First Selectman's position in a positive, bipartisan and constructive way.