Message from Southbury First Selectman Tim O’Neil
As we gather with friends and family through the holiday season, I want to wish everyone Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and warm wishes for other holidays and traditions being observed. As we ring in the New Year, may it bring peace and health to you and yours.
Thank you to our Town employees, volunteers, residents, and businesses for all you do to support our community and each other. Your commitment is what makes Southbury such a special place to live and serve.
Around Town
Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to attend several Town gatherings and community events. I was proud to join residents at the Holiday Celebration and to visit Southbury Helping Hands (formerly Southbury Needy Fund) as they support families with their Annual Holiday Gift Program with Southbury Social Services. Thank you to the volunteers that make up this organization, your contributions to our community do not go unnoticed. The Southbury Senior Center’s Epic Holiday Party was truly epic. I enjoyed meeting and serving our Senior Center members. Special thanks to Chef Dennis, the Senior Center employees and the volunteers that make this event so successful year after year. I also had the honor of joining Wreaths Across America laying wreaths on the graves of our veterans. It’s important to remember and honor those who served and sacrificed so much to ensure we live in a free democratic society.
Artist of the Year
The Southbury Library was the location for Southbury Arts and Culture Alliance’s Artist of the Year Award Ceremony. I was pleased to present certificates recognizing the David K. Merrill Lifetime Achievement in Arts Award winner Jim Tornatore, Artist of the Year Dardo Galletto and Alonso Guzmán, and People’s Choice Award winner Ellie Hanna. The Artist of the Year Runner Up was Danielle Hawthorne.
New Southbury Signs
You may have noticed the new welcome signs installed at Exit 14 and on Route 67 near the east end of Community House Road. These attractive additions offer an impactful first impression to visitors. They reflect the character of our community and proclaim pride in our town. Thank you to the Economic Development Commission for getting this done.
Winter Weather
As winter settles in, our Public Works team has already been out four times this year to working on pre-treating and plowing roads. The Public Works Crew are often out late so our roadways are safe to travel.
And as a reminder, please remember not to shovel snow into the road when clearing your driveways and sidewalks. And not to park cars on roadways during or after a snow event.
Budget Time
The Town of Southbury is actively working through the budget process. I’ve met with most department heads to review their needs and resources.
Recognition of Town Employees
Animal Control
We would like to recognize Kristin Cedor, Southbury’s Animal Control Officer, who served as an instructor at the 2025 State Animal Control Officer Training Academy. By sharing her knowledge and skills with the new ACOs, she contributed to public health and safety of our communities for both humans and animals
Fire Marshal
Fire Marshal Derrek Guertin is pleased to announce that Todd Degree has successfully completed all the required training to become a Connecticut Deputy Fire Marshal and has been sworn in as Deputy Fire Marshal. Achieving this Certification is a significant accomplishment. The process consists of over 420 hours of educational and practical experience in fire prevention, life safety, building and fire code enforcement, fire investigation, and public education. Todd’s hard work and dedication strengthens our organization's ability to protect lives, property, and the overall safety of the community we love to serve. Please join the Southbury Fire Marshal’s Office in recognizing this important milestone.