Rowayton's official name is the Sixth Taxing District of the City of Norwalk (6TD) and I am one of the three Commissioners that are elected to run the 6TD. I trust that all of our residents had a terrific summer. During this much loved time of year, your local government continues to work – from managing projects to defending Rowayton’s interests at Norwalk City Hall.

There were some changes this summer and some of these changes generated lots of debate. The most visible change was the replacement of the fence at the Old School Field. Ownership of this field has been contested, but the City of Norwalk has always asserted jurisdiction. When the 6TD discovered that the City planned to replace the fence, we initiated a dialogue and convinced them that a white vinyl fence was a serious mistake; we compromised on a natural cedar lattice fence. The Commissioners discussed this with the RCA – none of us liked the idea of change but the City was determined to proceed. Unfortunately our David-sized government was not in a position to stop Norwalk’s Goliath. In true Rowayton fashion, many of our residents like the fence although a vocal group remains very much against it.

Another set of changes was the landscaping work at the Community Center. This was part of professional plans developed for the 6TD. At the Center, we had two sets of problematic trees, Norway Maples and Bartlett Pears, that were costing us thousands of dollars a year in maintenance work. We planned to remove these trees in stages but were offered a very attractive recession-driven price to remove the maples at once. Then, we finagled an offer to not only remove the pears but to replace them with white Dogwoods at no expense to the 6TD (by the State of CT via the City of Norwalk). In addition, we got six large sugar maples for free and we will be buying up to an additional dozen red oaks and sugar maples at a 60% discount to market.

As a “low cost” government we took advantage of all of these opportunities and saved the 6TD over $50,000. Generations of Rowaytonites will enjoy the benefits of this work.

Some questioned why the Dogwoods were planted in late June. A private company, Almstead, was in charge of the project and they decided to plant the trees at the last minute. As a heat wave took its toll, we were in daily contact with the City as well as Almstead. Trees that were lost will be replaced under warranty.

Another recently undertaken project was a new fence at the Dog Field. This project was agreed to last year with users of the park and prevents dogs from escaping over the stone wall and allows for better use of the greenhouse. Users of the dog park paid for the fencing materials while the 6TD installed it. Here was another change that was a win-win for all.

One more contentious development is looming on the horizon – a cell phone tower. While many residents would appreciate improved cell phone service, I am not sure how many would like a cell phone tower in the middle of our village. Unfortunately, under both Federal and State law, these towers can be installed against our wishes. The 6TD is working with the City so that the 6TD not only has input on the tower’s location but can benefit financially from its installation. Stay tuned. If you have any thoughts, please contact me ASAP.

With shorter days, cooler temperatures and the arrival of Fall, we might not be running into each other as often but do get in touch with your ideas, thoughts and concerns regarding Rowayton and your local government.

Thank you.

Mike Barbis
Commissioner, Sixth Taxing District
mbarbis@sixthtd.com