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Browse all news articles from The Milford Times covering local government, community events, business, education, development, and more.
No Fine — For Now: Christopher Saley's LLC Skates Past First Test of Milford's $1,000-a-Day Wetlands Ordinance
The first enforcement test of Milford's new wetlands citation ordinance ended Wednesday night with no fines. The Inland Wetlands Agency unanimously upheld its violation order against the LLC co-owned by Public Works Director Christopher Saley — but gave the owners six more days to produce the engineer's report the original order required by June 7, and dropped the requirement for a second row of silt fencing if a professional certifies the first one works.
Milford's Enforcement Cameras Are Now Active: Here's Where, When, and What It Costs
Milford's automated traffic enforcement cameras began operating on Memorial Day, marking the start of a 30-day warning period that ends around June 24. After that date, drivers caught traveling more than 10 mph over the posted speed limit, or running a red light on the Boston Post Road, will receive mailed citations starting at $50. The Milford Times has compiled a complete guide to the program — where the cameras are, how they work, what the fines are, and how to appeal.
Plan b Burger Bar to Close Milford Location After 15 Years
Plan b Burger Bar will close its Milford location at 1638 Boston Post Road on Sunday, June 14, ending a 15-year run on the Boston Post Road, according to a statement from the company reported by WTNH News-8. Plan b Restaurants told the station it decided not to renew the lease for the location. The company's Glastonbury and Simsbury restaurants will remain open.
Milford Public Works Director's Private LLC Cited for Inland Wetlands Violation
Milford's Director of Public Works, Christopher Saley, acknowledged at an Inland Wetlands Agency meeting that his private LLC conducted construction and regrading work at 674 Naugatuck Avenue without the required inland wetlands permit. The Wetlands Compliance Officer testified that Saley's business partner had been specifically cautioned against starting work without a permit two weeks earlier. The agency will hold a special meeting on June 10 to consider the violation, the first significant test of a new enforcement ordinance the Board of Aldermen adopted on June 1.
Milford Police Investigating Fatal Shooting on East Broadway
Milford Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early in the morning at a home on East Broadway. One person was found deceased at the scene, and a second person was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Police have not released the names of those involved and have not indicated whether anyone is in custody.
$25,000 Home Improvement Fraud Arrest Leads Milford Police Blotter
A New Haven man faces first-degree larceny charges in a $25,000-plus home improvement fraud case, the Milford Police Department announced in its May 28 daily press release. The release detailed five arrests between May 18 and May 22, including two involving domestic violence and one driving under the influence case in which the suspect allegedly struck a sign and fled.
Milford to Sell $4.75 Million in Delinquent Tax Liens After 14-1 Board of Aldermen Vote
The Milford Board of Aldermen voted 14-1 on June 1 to authorize the sale of approximately $4.75 million in delinquent tax and sewer use liens to a third party via request for proposal. The properties span at least 15 years of unpaid taxes. Republican Alderman Win Smith Jr. cast the lone dissent, arguing that the liens accrue 18 percent annual interest and represent a more valuable long-term asset to the city than the immediate cash from a sale. Democratic Alderman Robert Pacelli, Jr. argued the sale provides certain immediate revenue without consuming city legal resources.
Milford Schools Advance $132 Million in New Construction Funding; Approve Esports Arenas at Both High Schools
The Milford Board of Education adopted its annual Capital Improvement Plan on May 26, amending it during the meeting to add $129 million for the West Shore Middle School rebuild, $3 million for East Shore Middle School design, and new air conditioning funding. The board separately approved educational specifications for esports arenas at both high schools on 7-1 votes. The plan now heads to the mayor, Board of Finance, and Board of Aldermen, where funding decisions will be made.
Smoke Detectors Alert Sleeping Resident in Beach Avenue Fire
A Beach Avenue resident escaped an early-morning house fire unharmed after working smoke detectors woke him in time to get out, the Milford Fire Department said. Crews responded just after 4:00 a.m. to find heavy fire on the building's second floor and struck a second alarm. No injuries were reported.
Milford Schools Are Educating Fewer Students at Higher Cost. Here's What the Numbers Show.
The Milford Board of Education has proposed a $118,952,091 operating budget for the 2026-27 school year — a 4.328% increase over the current year. At the same time, the district projects enrollment will fall to 5,042 students, down from 5,397 in 2020-21. The cost per pupil has risen 30.5% over the same six-year period. Here's what the budget document itself says is driving the numbers.
Milford Fire Marshal's Office Seeks 40% Permit Fee Increase; Adds New Permit Categories
Milford Deputy Fire Marshal Tim Suden told the Board of Fire Commissioners at its May 19 meeting that the Fire Marshal's Office is proposing to raise the percentage it charges on top of building department permit fees from 25 percent to 35 percent, a 40 percent relative increase that would not require Board of Aldermen approval. The change would generate roughly $17,000 to $20,000 in additional annual revenue based on current permit volume, with Suden arguing the office requires significantly more staff to meet national fire safety standards. The proposal also adds new permit categories for underground fire service mains and LP gas storage, and a paid fire extinguisher training service.
Domestic Violence Dominates Milford Police Blotter; One Suspect Arrested Twice in 24 Hours
Eight of the twelve arrests Milford Police made between May 5 and May 11 involved domestic violence, harassment, or violations of protective orders, according to the department's daily press release dated May 14. One Milford man was arrested twice within 24 hours for two separate violations of the same no-contact protective order — first for threatening the victim with a knife, then the following day for arriving at the residence with a facsimile firearm. Another suspect faces eight separate counts of protective order violations from a single arrest.
CT DPH Warns of Hepatitis A Risk in Imported Shellfish; Some Product Distributed to Connecticut Retailers
Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani issued an advisory Thursday warning state residents about an active hepatitis A outbreak in New York state linked to imported fresh-frozen blood clams, also known as concha negra. State officials confirmed that a limited number of Connecticut retailers received the same product, and that the state is working with local health departments to ensure it does not reach consumers.
Milford Board of Education Approves 20-Year School Plan in 7-2 Vote
After nearly three years of study, four hours of debate, and seven public comments from parents on both sides of the issue, the Milford Board of Education voted 7-2 Monday night to adopt the Long Range Facilities Master Plan. Two Democratic board members broke with the majority, citing concerns about consecutive years of construction disruption for some students and the risk of leaving children in portable classrooms for years while waiting on city funding.
Why Milford's Planning and Zoning Board Says Yes to Projects Neighbors Hate
When 64 apartments with zero affordable units got approved unanimously on Boston Post Road in March, residents who'd seen the project on Facebook wanted to know how. The answer, according to the city's own planner, is uncomfortable: state law and Milford's own zoning regulations leave the Planning and Zoning Board with very little discretion to say no to projects that comply with the code. Here's how it actually works.
How Milford's Mill Rate Actually Gets Set — And Why No Politician Can Just Promise a Lower One
After Thursday's budget vote set the new mill rate at $28.67, readers have been asking some version of the same question: who actually decides this number? The answer is more interesting than most people assume — and it explains a great deal about how local tax policy actually works in Connecticut.
Milford Police Blotter: Five Arrests Between April 26 and April 29
Milford Police made five arrests across four separate incidents between April 26 and April 29, ranging from a $161 Walmart shoplifting to a nearly $2,500 credit card fraud at Costco and a warrant service involving sexual assault charges. The arrests were detailed in the Milford Police Department's daily press release dated May 8.
Milford Aldermen Approve $278M Budget 9-6 as Mill Rate Drops to $28.67
The Milford Board of Aldermen approved a $278.1 million city budget Thursday night on a 9-6 party-line vote, setting the new mill rate at $28.67 — down from prior years — but doing little to ease the bottom-line tax bills for residential homeowners facing the impact of the state-mandated 2025 revaluation. Republicans, in the minority, argued that the Democratic majority had the votes to cut deeper if it had chosen to.
Heated Debate as Milford Approves New Airbnb Restrictions
After hours of emotional public comment Monday night, the Milford Board of Aldermen voted to approve new short-term rental regulations while also hearing calls for stronger anti-human trafficking measures and debating a proposed charter revision commission.
Milford Fire Crews Knock Down Basement Fire on Milford Hunt Lane
The Milford Fire Department responded to a basement fire at a home on Milford Hunt Lane shortly before 10 p.m. Saturday. All occupants had evacuated by the time crews arrived, and Engine 7 extinguished the fire in what appeared to be a utility closet. No injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation.
Mayor Smith Implements Citywide Spending and Hiring Freeze
Mayor Rich Smith has put the city on a fiscal lockdown for the final quarter of the current fiscal year, freezing new hires, non-essential operational spending, out-of-state travel, and most overtime through June 30. The mayor pointed to $9.4 million in new contractual obligations the city is locked into paying, rising healthcare costs, and an unusually difficult winter. Public safety departments are exempt.
Monday 4.27 Budget Hearing Recap
Monday's Board of Aldermen budget session produced more news from a single department than most full meetings: Public Works Director Chris Saley confirmed he plans to leave city employment "sometime in the next year and a half," defended 27 vacant-but-funded positions worth roughly $1.2 million, and acknowledged the city spent nearly 13 times its snow removal budget this winter. The new Department of Permitting and Land Use director also signaled major staffing changes ahead, and Bridges Healthcare warned of $2 million in potential federal funding losses.
Fire Chief Out, Wasson Scrapped, Senior Center Drawing on Reserves: Budget Night Roundup
Wednesday night's Board of Aldermen budget hearing turned into a series of revelations: the fire chief and both assistant chiefs are retiring, the $4.9 million Wasson Field health department building has been abandoned without a board vote, and the Senior Center has already pulled $100,000 from its reserve fund just to meet payroll obligations. Here's what Milford residents need to know.
Milford Police Blotter: Strangulation Arrest at Truck Stop, Public Indecency Charge, and More
Milford police made seven arrests between April 15 and April 19, including a woman charged with strangling a victim at the Pilot Truck Stop and a man charged with public indecency after neighbors reported him exposing himself in his front doorway.
Police Seize 54 Pounds of Marijuana From Two Milford Smoke Shops; Bronx Man Arrested
Milford police seized approximately 54 pounds of marijuana and a significant quantity of illegal THC and kratom products from two Boston Post Road smoke shops following a joint operation with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. A 20-year-old Bronx man was arrested and charged with operating a drug factory.
512-Unit Housing Development on Wheelers Farm Road
The Milford Planning and Zoning Board approved a 512-unit mixed-use development on a 47-acre site at 474-488 Wheelers Farm Road Tuesday night. The project includes 364 multifamily apartments and a 150-unit building for residents 55 and older.
Milford Police Requested $1.1M for Cruisers and Body Cameras.
The Milford Police Department requested $290,000 for new cruisers and $819,306 for its Axon body camera and taser contract in the upcoming fiscal year. Mayor Richard Smith's proposed budget recommends $0 for both.
Where Does the Money Go?' Residents Vent Frustration Over Property Tax Increases at Budget Hearing
Residents told the Board of Aldermen that tax increases of 35% — or in one case, 120% over six years — are pushing them toward the exit. "At some point, I'm going to say adios," one homeowner said.
192 Signatures and a Warning for City Hall
Dozens of seniors filled the Board of Aldermen chambers Wednesday night, pushing back on a flat Senior Center budget and arguing that standing still means falling behind as costs rise.
Mayor Smith Announces Five-Year Phase-In to Soften 40% Property Revaluation Impact
Mayor Rich Smith announced a five-year phase-in of new property assessments to soften the blow of Milford's revaluation, which increased property values by an average of 40 percent.
Best Buy Coming to Milford Crossing
Best Buy is returning to the area after a three-year absence, opening a new store at Milford Crossing in the former Joanne Fabrics space. The ZBA unanimously approved the retailer's signage Monday night.
Homeless Encampment Murder Suspect Pleads Not Guilty to Some Charges; Awaiting Plea on Murder Counts
Matthew Kealey, accused of killing a man and setting fire to his shelter at a homeless encampment behind Lowe's, has entered not guilty pleas to some charges. He remains held on $2 million bond.
Milford Police Officer Fired After Crashing Into Home, Fleeing Scene, Lying to Police
The Milford Board of Police Commissioners voted unanimously to fire Officer Michael Brennan after he crashed into a home, fled the scene, and initially lied to investigators about being the driver.
Milford, CT Elementary Schools Secure After Hoax Threat Investigated by Police
Milford Police stationed officers at all elementary schools after investigating an emailed threat that was determined to be a hoax originating from overseas.
Milford Police Blotter: Three Domestic Violence Arrests, Probation Violations | April 10, 2026
Milford Police made five arrests this week, including three domestic violence incidents — one in which a minor witnessed the altercation — along with probation violations and a shoplifting warrant.
Milford Police Chief Recommends Termination of Officer
Milford Police Chief Keith Mello is recommending the termination of Officer Michael Brennan after an Internal Affairs investigation determined the officer was not truthful about his involvement in an off-duty motor vehicle crash.
Shed Fire on Snow Apple Lane
Milford firefighters extinguished a shed fire on Snow Apple Lane Sunday evening. The homeowner was already using a garden hose to control the flames when crews arrived. The cause remains under investigation.
New Ice Cream Shop ‘Toasty Scoops’ Coming to Former Sundae House Location in Milford
A new ice cream shop is set to open at the former Sundae House location on New Haven Avenue, with renovations already underway.
Milford Police Daily Report: Firearm Arrest, Shoplifting, and Multiple Domestic Incidents
Milford Police reported several arrests this week, including a firearm incident at a retail store, multiple domestic disputes, and shoplifting cases.
Milford Planning & Zoning Approves New Youth Sports and Training Facilities
Milford’s Planning & Zoning Board approved multiple new recreational uses, including a softball training facility and martial arts academy, during its April 7 meeting.
Milford to Launch 24/7 Speed Cameras — Residents Raise Concerns Over Cost and Privacy
Milford is rolling out 24/7 speed enforcement cameras across key roads and school zones. While officials say the goal is safety, many residents are questioning the fines, data privacy, and overall impact.
Packed House at April Board of Aldermen Meeting as Residents Sound Off on Taxes, Short-Term Rentals, and Public Safety
From reassessment sticker shock to a heated short-term rental debate, Milford residents filled City Hall Monday night with plenty to say — and aldermen had a full agenda of their own, including school construction grants, new board appointments, and a contested vote on the Founders Walk project.
The Learning Experience Daycare and Preschool Coming to Boston Post Road in Milford
A new daycare and preschool is coming to Milford as The Learning Experience prepares to open at 710 Boston Post Road, offering childcare for infants through kindergarten-age children.
Severe Cold Weather Protocol Activated; Beth El Shelter Open as Warming Center
Governor Lamont has activated the Severe Cold Weather Protocol as wind chills are expected to hit zero or below Sunday night. Beth El Shelter in Milford will remain open overnight as a warming center.
Milford Police Blotter: Arrests for Intimate Image Threats, Protective Order Violation | December 12, 2025
Milford Police made four arrests this week, including a Milford man accused of threatening to release intimate photos unless paid, and a Clinton man found with cocaine after allegedly violating a protective order.
Sorrento Cafe & Wine Bar Coming to Downtown Milford
MILFORD — A new Italian-inspired cafe and wine bar is headed to downtown Milford, taking over a familiar River Street location.
Bay View Beach Neighbors Push Back on "Monster House" Proposal
Milford's Zoning Board asked a developer to scale back plans for a 2,800-square-foot home on a tiny Warren Drive lot after neighbors challenged the project and questioned whether the city has a plan to preserve beach community character.
Milford Police Report 13 Arrests Including $10K Embezzlement at Dave & Buster's
Milford Police reported 13 arrests from December 1-7, including a former Dave & Buster's employee accused of stealing over $10,000 through a ghost employee scheme, multiple shoplifting incidents, and breach of peace cases at local establishments.
Porch Fire Damages Harrison Avenue Apartment Building; All Residents, Pets Safe
Milford CT Fire Department crews responded to a porch fire at 164 Harrison Ave. on the morning of Dec. 5. Heavy fire on the front porch involved two apartments, but all occupants evacuated safely. Three cats were rescued by firefighters.
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Ceremony Set for December 7 at Milford, CT Green
Milford will honor Pearl Harbor veterans and fallen heroes with a remembrance ceremony at the WW2 Monument on the Milford Green on December 7 at 9 a.m.
Target Hit by Five Shoplifting Incidents Over Thanksgiving Weekend
One suspect found with meth and professional shoplifting tools; another had outstanding warrants
New Mayor Smith Calls for Unity
Civility emerges as dominant theme at first meeting under new administration MILFORD — Mayor Richard Smith's first Board of Aldermen meeting Monday night was marked by calls for bipartisanship and civility from multiple speakers, even as a contentious 9-6 vote on a Milford Power Plant settlement exposed lingering partisan divisions.
Thanksgiving Week Trash Collection Changes in Milford: What You Need to Know
Milford residents with Thursday garbage and recycling collection should put their bins out on Wednesday this week due to the Thanksgiving holiday, according to the city's Department of Public Works. The Milford Transfer Station will also be closed on Thursday, November 27, for the holiday. "Thursday's garbage and recycling will be collected on Wednesday," the city's sanitation schedule states. Regular collection schedules for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday routes remain unchanged this week.
Colony Grill: The History of Milford's Famous Thin Crust Pizza
For nearly a century, Colony Grill has been serving what many consider the best thin-crust pizza in Connecticut from its original Broad Street location in Milford. The signature "hot oil" bar pies, paper-thin and crispy, have made this unassuming tavern a must-visit destination for pizza lovers across the state.
Eleven Arrests Including Domestic Violence, Shoplifting, and Strangulation Charges
Milford Police arrested eleven individuals between November 17 and November 23 on charges ranging from domestic violence and shoplifting to first-degree larceny and second-degree strangulation.
Milford Homeowners Face Rising Property Assessments as 2025 Revaluation Sparks Frustration
Milford homeowners are receiving unwelcome news this month as the city completes its state-mandated property revaluation, with many residents reporting significant increases in their home assessments. The frustration has spilled onto social media, where residents are sharing their concerns—and some confusion—about what these changes mean for their tax bills.
Things to Do in Milford, CT: The Ultimate Guide to Connecticut's Coastal Gem
Looking for things to do in Milford, CT? This comprehensive guide covers Connecticut's coastal gem, from the award-winning Silver Sands State Park and legendary Charles Island to kayaking adventures, the famous Oyster Festival, vibrant arts scene at The MAC, exceptional dining, and year-round activities. Whether you're planning a day trip or weekend getaway, discover why Milford is one of Connecticut's best-kept secrets.
The Best Restaurants in Milford, CT: A Complete Local Dining Guide
Looking for the best restaurants in Milford, CT? This comprehensive guide covers everything from Stonebridge's waterfront dining and The Lazy Lobster's award-winning lobster rolls to Colony Grill's famous hot oil pizza and Don Rene's incredible beef birria tacos. Discover upscale Italian BYOB gems, authentic New Haven-style pizza, and the newest spots in downtown Milford.
Long-Serving Alderwoman Ellen Bey Honored After 10 Years of Service; Board Addresses Civility Concerns
MILFORD, CT – In an emotional meeting Wednesday night, the Milford Board of Aldermen said goodbye to four departing members while approving a $4.1 million police equipment contract and hearing pleas from residents about short-term rental problems plaguing local neighborhoods. The November 6, 2025 meeting marked the final session for Aldermen Ellen Bey, Scott Marlo, Jason Jenkins, and Ray Vitali, with particular attention paid to Dr. Ellen Russell Bey's decade of service representing both the first and fifth districts.
Seven Milford Schools Recognized as Connecticut Schools of Distinction for 2024-25
MILFORD, CT – Seven Milford Public Schools have been honored as Schools of Distinction by the Connecticut State Department of Education for the 2024-25 school year, a prestigious recognition that highlights exceptional academic performance and growth across the district. The achievement places multiple Milford elementary schools among the top performers in Connecticut, with Orchard Hills Elementary School earning special distinction by landing in the top 10% of all schools statewide with an accountability score of 89.6%.
Noches de Colombia Opens at Connecticut Post Mall, Bringing Authentic Colombian Cuisine to Milford
MILFORD, CT – Colombian cuisine enthusiasts in Milford now have a new destination to satisfy their cravings as Noches de Colombia officially opened its doors at Connecticut Post Mall in late September 2025. The restaurant, which held its soft opening on September 22, brings authentic Colombian flavors to the former 8 Thousand Pizza location. This marks the second Connecticut location for the popular restaurant chain, which operates over 20 establishments across the tri-state area, joining its sister restaurant in downtown Stamford.
Nine-Unit Affordable Housing Project Approved for High Street Despite Traffic Concerns
MILFORD, CT – The Milford Planning and Zoning Board voted 6-1 to approve a new affordable housing development at 294 High Street during their November 5, 2025 meeting, clearing the way for nine residential units in the city's RO zone. The project, presented by Attorney Thomas Lynch of Lynch Trembicki & Boynton, will be developed under Connecticut's 8-30g statute, which requires that 30% of units be designated as affordable housing. High St. Properties, LLC owns the parcel at Map 65, Block 310, Parcel 6A.
Milford, CT Police Report Four Arrests Including Domestic Violence and Shoplifting Incidents
Milford Police arrested four individuals in mid-October on charges ranging from domestic violence to shoplifting and threatening behavior at local businesses.
Milford CT Police Report Four Arrests in Early November Including Theft and Indecent Exposure Cases
Milford Police made four arrests in early November, including a larceny case involving $3,000 in theft and an indecent exposure incident at a Boston Post Road store.