Included is a letter I have recently sent to Governor Malloy regarding my proposal and idea to revitalize our Connecticut and local vacant mills.

Dear Governor Malloy:

I am writing you today to discuss my concern and possible solution to the large amount of distressed mills in our state. Throughout New England, there are more than 400 small villages and towns whose evolution and development have been tied to the presence of a mill (1 ) The state’s current economic development initiatives have been geared toward retaining and attracting companies to the state including the “Bioscience Connecticut” initiative and the “First Five” initiative. I am writing to you to request that a portion of economic development funding be geared toward re-use and revitalization in our distressed mills in the state.

 For number of years, towns and cities in Connecticut have been dealing with distressed mills. Our Town of Stonington CT. includes several of these type of mills. Recently, through our “Distressed Buildings Ordinance” I developed, we have made a focus to work with developers to re-use and revitalize these parcels. The largest deterrent to this success is financing. Other states including Massachusetts have worked hard to revitalize these locations. “Travelers making the same journey today would still see much evidence of decline, neglect, and abandonment; but they would also see evidence of rebirth. Many of these mills have been revitalized and now house the high-technology and light manufacturing companies that are the backbone of the Massachusetts economy today”(2 ) These parcels are concerning as they are not only vacant but have become safety and fire hazards. This is evidenced recently by the fire at the vacant former Nova Dye and Print factory in Waterbury. A number of mills have fall victim to dangerous fire and vandalism over the years.

 To prevent this, I feel it would be valuable to provide grant monies to mill owners or developers who would like to renovate and adaptively re-use these mills. It would be beneficial to revitalize current parcels and retaining historic features than possibly adding sprawl to our towns with new development.

 Thank you very much for your consideration in to this proposal. I feel this initiative would provide an economic transformation to many towns throughout the state and add to potential development of closed mills.

 Sincerely

Edward Haberek Jr. ; First Selectman

 cc.        Commisioner Catherine Smith; DECD

                 State Senator Andrew Maynard

                  State Rep. Diana Urban

               seCTer Board of Directors   

1. Kotval , Zenia and Mullin, John,” The Revitalization of New England’s Small Town Mills:Breathing New Life into Old Places (2009) http://works.bepress.com/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1069&context=john_mullin
2.  Mullin, John; Armstrong, Jeanne; and Kavanagh, Jean, “From Mill Town to Mill Town: The Transition of a New England Town from a Textile to a High-Technology Economy” (1986). Landscape Architecture & Regional Planning Faculty Publication Series. Paper 8. http://scholarworks.umass.edu/larp_faculty_pubs/8

Northeastern Economic Developers Association (NEDA) is proud to award the “Economic Development Professional” (EDP) designation to Edward Haberek Jr. , First Selectman of the Town of Stonington in Stonington, CT.  The EDP designation is awarded to professionals working in economic development only after careful review confirming that a candidate has met the requirements in each of three categories:  First, the individual must have a minimum of three years of work experience actively engaged in economic development.  Second, the individual must document completion of comprehensive coursework encompassing a wide range of skills including Business Retention & Expansion, Business Finance, Marketing & Business Attraction, Real Estate, and Community & Neighborhood Development.  Finally, the individual must document advanced-level education in at least three separate topics of importance to economic development work, through formal training and/or direct experience.  

Distinctively, Mr. Haberek has greatly participated in economic development as an elected official.  During his tenure, he completed numerous infrastructure projects, worked on bringing several companies to the town, captured $2.3 million dollars in federal stimulus monies, and implemented economic development programs which have received several awards from NEDA. He has also visited and/or developed international relations with a number of cities in Canada, China and the Philippines.

Mr. Haberek holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Management , an M.B.A. in Marketing, Advanced Certificate in Graduate Studies in Business Administration and Ph.D. in Management/Political Economy.

The Northeastern Economic Developers Association consists of over 500 professional economic developers, appointed and volunteer economic development officials, and others committed to sound economic development practice, in the eleven Northeastern States and the District of Columbia.

Washington, DC – Edward Haberek Jr.; First Selectman of the Town of Stonington has been appointed to the National League of Cities (NLC) 2012 Community and Economic Development Policy and Advocacy Committee.  This Committee has the lead responsibility for developing NLC federal policy positions on issues involving housing, community and economic development, land use, recreation and parks, historic preservation and international competitiveness.  The appointment was announced by NLC President Ted Ellis, Mayor, Bluffton, Ind.

First Selectman Ed Haberek stated that participating in this committee provides an opportunity for the Town of Stonington to build a voice in Community and Economic Development Policy and Advocacy.

 As a member of the committee, Ed will play a key role in shaping NLC’s policy positions, while advocating on behalf of America’s cities and towns on Capitol Hill, with the Administration, and at home.

 The National League of Cities is the nation’s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.

As we begin the first month of 2012, I felt it was important to discuss my initiatives for my third term in a series of editorials. I want to again personally thank the residents of Stonington for your support as it is a privilege and an honor to serve you as First Selectman.

 We are continuing to have trying times in our state. In fact, earlier this week, Office of Fiscal Analysis reported a nearly $145 million state budget deficit. (Connecticut Mirror) This situation is of great concern.

 A major initiative of this term focuses on our local economy and increasing jobs. Employment opportunities in quality economic industries and entrepreneurial small businesses are vital. The opportunity to have a good paying job allows an individual to purchase local goods and services which replenish the local economy.

 I look forward to continuing to work to attract companies and promote Stonington to growing industries. We want to continue building on our successes with Zachry Corp., L&M Diagnostic and the potential Mystic Senior Living facility.  As a result, we are reaching out to their vendors to look at Stonington and be logistically closer to them.  In addition, we have been meeting with several potential start-up companies to discuss available locations.  I also look forward to continue visiting local businesses each month to retain these organizations in the community.

 Another key initiative is to start local “Co-op Workspace “settings in the town for freelancers and small businesses. Such individuals as Writers, web developers, internet specialists, programmers, graphic designers, and entrepreneurs desire inexpensive, flexible office space in a creative, friendly networking atmosphere. I have visited a successful organization in NYC and look forward to learning more to implement here in Stonington

 Along with our major initiatives there are a number of other opportunities being pursued in Economic Development. These opportunities include examining a “Lobster Hatchery” for our local fishermen, “Homeprenurs” concept, non-profit economic study, and a guide to “Starting a Business” in Stonington, revamping EDC website, and preparing our Third Annual Stonington Economic Roundtable.

 I look forward to keeping resident updated on our progress. It is important for us locally and regionally to work hard to enhance the competitiveness of our beautiful town

As the holiday’s come upon us, challenging budgets and an arduous economy continues. A number of layoffs have occurred, businesses have closed and housing foreclosures continue. Many local families are undergoing some difficult economic conditions.

On top of all this, it is the holiday season. This is a time when many individuals reach into their pockets and pull out money to extend a bit of happiness to others. Many individuals and families shop for that perfect gift for others. This holiday season, make it a point to shop local first.

 It may be more important than ever to shop local first. Local retail businesses seem to suffer the most during a recession because everyone flocks to the major department stores for their shopping needs. But without our local retail businesses, our community would not thrive. Our storefronts would be vacant, and our tax revenue would keep decreasing. Our retail businesses give to the community in so many ways; it is only right to give back to them by giving them our business.

 Make it a point to shop locally this holiday season, even if it cost a few more pennies—and a little more of your precious time: there is no better way to ensure the stability and character of our community. I wish all of you Happy Holidays.

Today is a great day in Stonington Economic Development. We welcome Zachry Nuclear Engineering to our town. On behalf of the Town of Stonington, I want to formally welcome:

• Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board John Zachry,
• Nuclear Group President Thomas Hannigan
• President Zachry Nuclear Engineering Mark Mills
• Board of Directors
• and the whole Zachry Nuclear Engineering family

 Our new 2011 Economic Development slogan states “Stonington, A Location for You”, and it is an honor and a privilege to have Stonington your new location.

 For the past 85 years, talent and dedication has been the key to Zachry’s success. This is seen in their motto “It takes a force.” Zachry’s employees utilize a combination of collaboration, practicality and vision. Zachry Nuclear Engineering embodies an impressive corporate culture that includes such corporate values as Safety, Commitment, Trust, and Integrity just to name a few.

 This relocation is a wonderful accomplishment. This beautiful 34 acre waterfront site, overlooking Fishers Island Sound has been converted from an Industrial use to Office and R&D facility. The new exterior window walls, roofing and mechanical systems are fantastic.

We are excited to welcome you to our town and look forward to the increase of your staff over the next several years.

Personally, there are many individuals to thank for helping make this relocation occur. It seemed like yesterday that Francis Jenkins and I were having dinner in New York City discussing this opportunity and how to bring it to fruition. I want to thank:

• Francis and the Sherman Group for all their great work. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Francis personally and his staff. It has been a great pleasure working with you on this project
•  Ted Harris, Managing Director of Studley, Inc. who represented Zachry in the transaction. Ted has a great connection to Stonington with friends here.
•  Monte Pittman; Zachry Nuclear Engineering. Monte is very much a fan of our other economic addition Tractor Supply. We had great conversations about San Antonio
•  Mark Mills; President Zachry Nuclear Engineering. It has been a great pleasure getting to know you and working with you on this project
•  Ken Everett; Director of Business Services
•  Heather Rowley and Cathy Green; Thank you for your help in coordinating with my assistant for this event
•  Danny Barber, Vice President and Partner of Northeast Property Group, Inc. represented the owner and also member of our Stonington Economic Development Commission
•  Stonington Economic Development Commission who assisted and supported of this relocation and incentive.
•  Planning & Zoning Staff and Commissions for their assistance in making this happen and advice to Zachry in the process.
•  I want to thank the residents of Stonington for their support of this relocation and welcoming Zachry to Stonington

 Japanese poet Ryunosuke Satoro sums it up best in his quote and this is a perfect setting, “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean”.

Again, I want to thank you for making Stonington your new home and welcome you to our town. I look forward to a long and successful relationship. We are honored to have you here.

Yesterday was a crazy day and I was unable to take time to update blog. I wanted to take a moment to continue updating our residents, Our CL&P Liaison is continuing to help facilitate with the CL&P War Room with our concerns and priorities. CL&P effort now seems to rely on “circuit” work to re-power the remaining area’s down. We do have lines that are down but re-powering appears to be because of circuit issues. We are now at 14% remaining out of power.

Today our areas that remain without power appear to be Mason’s Island, areas on Old Mystic including Arlington Acres, parts of Mystic and Stonebridge & Pendleton. They are apparently on their own circuit (which as a health care facility is a priority). Unfortunately, there appears to be major damage to this circuit that connects them and it affecting other areas. In addition, Lantern Hill Rd. is currently closed because of damage and lines. Currently, 9 powers crews are out in various parts of town.

Yesterday, the RT. 1 Corridor (including Pawcatuck) and Stonington Borough were re-powered. Also various parts in Mystic and outer vicinities were powered up. CL&P began the day in Stonington at 54% out of power and finished the day 22% out of power. I ask residents to please feel free to call 860-535-5050 to report any concerns. Also our Emergency Operation Center at 860-599-7583 & 7584

We also have bottles of water and prepared meal packets for residents at Human Services. Also, we continue to offer a power recharging area at the Police Station for residents who have medical items

Again the YMCA offering showers to residents at the Westerly, Mystic and Arcadia site.

Town Hall is OPEN today.

Landfill is open. I have waived any fees for disposal of hurricane damage related items

The DECD through SECTER will be providing grants to help businesses obtain temporary assistance at www.DECD.org, or by calling 860-270-8215

I look forward to continuing to keep residents updated about information by local media, and personally through my social media sites of Facebook, Twitter and blog.

In an effort to continue updating, Our CL&P Liaison is continuing to help facilitate with the CL&P War Room our concerns and priorities.

CL&P was planning to re-energize RT 1 area & Stonington Borough tonight but ran into two malfunctions to the transformers. An Electrical Engineer has been
called in to fix this issue. This breakdown has pushed back the re-energizing to tomorrow (Thursday)

The Town obtained more bottles of water, bags of ice and prepared meal packets. I am personally delivering to residents tonight. Tomorrow you can pick up at  Human Services. Also, we continue to offer a power recharging area at the Police Station for residents who have medical items

If you have any needs or questions. Human Services Bldg. next to the High School is open for assistance. Also you can call our Emergency
Operation Center at 860-599-7583 & 7584

Again the YMCA offering showers to residents at the Westerly, Mystic and Arcadia site.

Town Hall will be OPEN Thursday, I am not sure what technology we will have but can register items manually.

Landfill is open. I have waived any fees for disposal of hurricane damage related items

The DECD through SECTER will be providing grants to help businesses obtain temporary assistance at www.DECD.org, or by calling
860-270-8215

DEP has come to Stonington and made an initial assessment of the coastline. An emergency declaration permit with the State is being affirmed. Coastline residents will have opportunity for submitting for assistance after this is completed

Finally, please call the Emergency Operation Center with any questions at 860-599-7583 and 860-599-7584 I look forward to continuing to keep
residents updated about information by local media, and personally through my social media sites of Facebook, Twitter and blog.

In an effort to continue updating, Our CL&P Liaison is continuing to help facilitate with the CL&P War Room our concerns and priorities. CL&P effort now is
“circuit” work to re-power the area’s down.

I am now working on trying to acquire oxygen for a number of seniors who are out. I am also working on acquiring more food and water for seniors homebound and other complexes. If you have any needs or questions. Human Services Bldg. next to the High School is open for assistance. Also you can call our Emergency Operation Center at 860-599-7583 & 7584

We have 1000 bottles of water and prepared meal packets for residents at Human Services. Also, we continue to offer a power recharging area at the Police Station for residents who have medical items

Again the YMCA offering showers to residents at the Westerly, Mystic and Arcadia site. Town Hall will be OPEN Thursday, I am not sure what
technology we will have but can register items manually.

Landfill is open. I have waived any fees for disposal of hurricane damage related items

The DECD through SECTER will be providing grants to help businesses obtain temporary assistance at www.DECD.org, or by calling 860-270-8215

DEP has come to Stonington to assist with disaster assistance on our coastline. An emergency declaration permit with the State is being affirmed. More information will be forthcoming.

Finally, please call the Emergency Operation Center with any questions at 860-599-7583 and 860-599-7584 I look forward to continuing to keep residents updated about information by local media, and personally through my social media sites of Facebook, Twitter and blog.

As of our 4:30pm meeting, CL&P crews continue their work. They were able to re-energize a number of areas in town and continue to work on significant backbone power issues that power the rest of the town. I am very appreciative of the work, lights are going on.  I will continue keep you updated on powered areas of town as they come on, period re-energizing will continue in various parts of town through the night.

 FEMA visited Stonington this morning. We are asking any residents and businesses with structural Hurricane damage to contact EOC Wednesday morning at 860-599-7583 & 7584 for initial registration.

 We have 1000 bottles of water and prepared meal packets for residents. Also, we continue to offer a power recharging area at the Police Station for residents who have medical items

 Again the YMCA offering showers to residents at the Westerly, Mystic and Arcadia site.

 Town Hall will be closed Wednesday, as Internet & Phone connections are still down for the facility.

 Landfill is open. I have waived any fees for disposal of Hurricane damage related items

The DECD through SECTER will be providing grants to help businesses obtain temporary assistance at www.DECD.org, or by calling 860-270-8215

Finally, please call the Emergency Operation Center with any questions at 860-599-7583 and 860-599-7584 I look forward to continuing to keep residents updated about information by local media, and personally through my social media sites of Facebook, Twitter and Blog.