City cited for work in developing

By Michael P. Walsh

Special to the Voice 

Mayor Nancy R. Rossi and Planning Director Christopher Soto celebrated the city’s new economic development certification by displaying West Haven’s “2022 Silver Certified Community” plaque at City Hall on June 22. 

West Haven was among 12 cities and towns certified by the Connecticut Economic Development Association on April 28 for exemplifying best practices in economic development and land use. 

CEDAS Board President Kristen Gorski said the certified municipalities participated in a “rigorous” application review process that required documentation of procedures for development projects, community engagement and consideration of economic development strategies. 

The application consisted of four components: communications and marketing, coordination and collaboration, organizational capacity and strategy, and policies and programs. 

“Projects like the raising of Beach Street, the renovation of the Allingtown Green and the opening of New England Brewing Co. demonstrate the leadership and innovation of West Haven as a model municipality in Connecticut,” Rossi said. “I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to Chris Soto and the leaders of our community who have paved the way for this honor and to CEDAS, which has been recognizing sustainability, development and best practices since it began the certification program in 2019.” 

West Haven was one of eight municipalities certified as a Silver community, joining the neighboring towns of Guilford, Hamden, North Branford and Woodbridge. 

Three others earned Gold certification, and one received Bronze status. 

Gorski presented the etched glass plaque to Soto on June 8 at CEDAS headquarters on Long Wharf Drive in New Haven, along with awarding plaques to the other certified municipalities. 

CEDAS is a not-for-profit membership organization committed to advancing the practice of economic development in Connecticut. It provides a forum for the economic development community, hosts educational programs, fosters sustainable economic growth and advocates to improve the state’s economy.