Congratulations to everyone who participated in the 32nd annual New Haven Road Race yesterday! Thanks to the Road Race organizers, volunteers and sponsors for their years of hard work and dedication. I’d also like to acknowledge City staff members who work hard to ensure that this event is safe and successful each year.

Here’s what else is happening in New Haven:

Early Childhood Development Plan

This morning, the New Haven Early Childhood Council announced the launch of its Early Childhood Development Plan. This plan builds upon the success of the Council’s Best Beginnings Plan which commenced in 2001 and has helped to make the New Haven early child care and education system the largest in the state, providing 73% of New Haven children with pre-kindergarten experiences. The Early Childhood Plan seeks to improve the quality of the preschool experience, facilitate access to preschool programs, expand infant and toddler care and create opportunities for families to access quality healthcare.

Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program Receives Recognition

The City of New Haven’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program recently received a “green” designation from HUD’s Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control. This designation is based on an assessment of New Haven’s overall performance for the April through June quarter. New Haven’s lead abatement program is made possible because of $3,000,000 in funding that it has received from HUD. The majority of this grant has been set aside to provide qualifying property owners with forgivable loans of up to $10,000 per unit for lead-based paint hazard control in housing built prior to 1978. To find out if you qualify for a loan or for more information, please contact the Greater New Haven Community Loan Fund at 203-624-7406.

Mayor’s Green Tip

Dust your refrigerator to reduce the amount of electricity it consumes. Dust buildup on the coils makes them more inefficient and causes the refrigerator to run more often.

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I hope you have a happy and healthy week!

Very truly yours,

John DeStefano, Jr.

Mayor

[9/6/2009]