Street Safety, Schools and Local Business Discussed at Community Conversations
By Greg Reilly
Safety on local roads, Stratford Public Schools’ social-emotional learning programs, litter on the streets, and the location of a new restaurant on Main Street were the primary issues raised by the public at Stratford Community Conversations on October  4th. The meeting, organized and moderated by resident Greg Reilly, was held at Unitarian Universalist Church on Huntington Road.
The subject of two pedestrian fatalities in one year near Paradise Green shifted to jaywalking and drivers speeding and running through red lights. Using cameras at traffic light intersections was one enforcement measure suggested.
As reports from across the country indicate children are struggling with learning and emotional anxieties, two members of the Stratford Board of Education shared information about how the school district addresses social-emotional learning throughout the K-12 system. One program is RULER – Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions.
Community involvement efforts, including mentoring and the Stratford Volunteer Corps, were also mentioned as helpful.
A national chain restaurant moving into Stationhouse Square across from the train station on Main Street raised concerns about possible insufficient parking and difficulties entering and exiting the parking lot.
That restaurant story led to questions about the Town’s plans for economic and business development just as the one-hour Conversations meeting ended. Economic development is expected to come up again at a future meeting.
Reducing Litter
Litter along streets is seen as a persistent issue. Garbage cans with lids is one idea that would reduce litter by keeping animals from getting in the garbage cans. The Town Council member at the meeting reported that this is one of the possible improvements being considered by the Town.
Stratford Community Conversations brings community members together every three weeks at various venues to discuss local issues in a positive, non-critical way. All Stratford residents, businesspeople, community leaders, government leaders and staff are invited. Attendees may simply listen or join the discussion. There is no charge to attend.
The next Stratford Community Conversations will be Wednesday, October 25th, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 50 Chapel Street.
For more information, contact organizer and moderator Greg Reilly at GPReilly@optonline.net.
