FIRST UP on GMW is an occasional column that highlights shorter announcements or updates, and helps you get a quick start to the Wilton news of the day. Have a news tip, item or something you know people are chatting about? Email us at editor@goodmorningwilton.com.
Wilton’s New Playground Opens
The new playground at Merwin Meadows is now open to the public. Town officials have invited residents to stop by and enjoy the newest amenity offered at the park.
Merwin Meadows park is open to the public through Friday, May 24, after which a Merwin Meadows park pass will be required to access the playground. More information about park passes is available on the Town of Wilton Parks and Recreation webpage.
Town of Wilton Seeks Volunteers for Architectural Review Board/Village District Design Advisory Committee
The following is a press release from the Town of Wilton.
The Town of Wilton is seeking a dedicated volunteer to serve as a member of both the Architectural Review Board (ARB) and the Village District Design Advisory Committee (VDDAC). These two groups play a pivotal role in preserving the unique charm of Wilton by ensuring that the design of new buildings and landscapes is in harmony with the historic elements that are a hallmark of the community. These committees work to ensure that all construction done in the town is of supreme quality, honors Wilton’s colonial heritage, and promotes the highest standards of aesthetic design.
The VDDAC is responsible for reviewing proposals for exterior alterations, new construction, and signage within the designated Village District. The ARB shares the same mandate, but reviews projects outside of the Village District areas. Members of these boards help shape the future visual appeal of the town, while safeguarding its architectural antiques for generations to come.
Meetings are held monthly, providing ample opportunity for committee members to engage in meaningful discussions and deliberations about the multiple projects going up around Wilton. Ideal candidates will have a professional background in design, such as architects, designers, or landscape architects, but those with a strong grasp of design, a passion for the subject and a deep appreciation for Wilton may also be selected.
Volunteering on these boards means joining a group of thoughtful citizens who work together to curate and enhance the town’s future development. If having an opportunity to directly contribute to Wilton’s architectural landscape sounds exciting, town officials hope to hear from interested residents.
All interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest outlining relevant experience and motivations for volunteering on both boards. Letters should be addressed and mailed to Michael E. Wrinn, Director of Planning and Land Use Management, Town Hall Annex, 238 Danbury Rd., Wilton. Letters of interest can also be submitted via email.
The deadline for applications is Monday, May 6. Applicants will be contacted shortly thereafter to schedule interviews with the Planning and Zoning Commission, which is responsible for appointing VVDAC members and makes recommendations to the Board of Selectmen for ARB members.
For more information about the position, visit the Town of Wilton website or email Wrinn.
Tree Stewards Honored for Arbor Day
In honor of Arbor Day, Wilton’s Conservation Commission hosted a tree planting ceremony on Friday morning, April 26. The event was held on Schenck’s Island in Wilton Center, where two newly planted trees were named for town’s the 2022 Tree Steward Frank Simone and 2023 Tree Steward Nick Lee.
First Selectman Toni Boucher read a proclamation dedicating Wilton to protecting trees and woodlands and encouraging citizens to plant and care for trees. She noted that trees “increase property values, reduce erosion in our topsoil, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen, provide habitats for wildlife, are a renewable resource, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, beautify our community and elevate our spirit,” according to a press release.
The release also stated that “Wilton is proud to be officially designated as a Tree City, USA.”
