Submitted by Haddam Sustainability Committee
(November 14, 2024) — In a ceremony held on November 13, 2024 at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook, Haddam was one of seven towns to be awarded a Bronze certification plaque by Sustainable CT. Haddam met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for this prestigious certification from Sustainable CT, a voluntary certification program created to recognize thriving and resilient Connecticut municipalities.
Through the efforts of the Haddam Sustainability Committee, especially members Linda Talbott and Helen Hastings, along with Town Planner William Warner, Haddam demonstrated what Sustainable CT described as “significant achievements across a range of sustainability actions, including environmental stewardship, public health and social equity. Their Bronze certification is a testament to their dedication and collaborative efforts toward creating vibrant and sustainable communities.”
In its application for Sustainable CT certification, Haddam demonstrated significant achievements in twelve impact areas ranging from inclusive community building, thriving local economies, and vibrant arts and culture, to clean transportation and diverse housing. Haddam successfully completed actions including:
- Tylerville Business Interruption Loan Grant
- Haddam Center Sidewalk project
- Recycling of additional materials at the Transfer Station including mattresses, textiles, film plastics, batteries, electronics, swap shack items
- Haddam Food Scrap Program
- Tax Relief program for low income seniors and disabled residents
- Points were earned for securing a grant that will help fund thirty-six units of affordable housing for seniors
- The town was awarded additional points for the Higganum Cove Project, which took a once-contaminated site and is turning it into a recreation spot that residents can enjoy.
Photo above provided by Sustainable CT: Left to Right, Haddam Sustainability Committee members Teresa Resnick, Helen Hastings and Joanne Nesti
