tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-155634602012-02-16T12:33:55.259-05:00The purpose of this blog is to provide a forum where involved citizens of Waterbury can discuss the positive changes that are occuring in the city.Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.comBlogger851100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-16621465002566261932012-01-24T16:18:00.000-05:002012-01-24T16:18:09.052-05:00

Over the past year it has been my privilege to serve the City of Waterbury as a member of the Human Rights Commission. However, due to other commitments, I find that I am no longer able to devote the time to this commission that it deserves. Therefore, I am resigning my post as a member of the Human Rights Commission effective immediately. I appreciate the chance to work with the wonderful

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-21939375760757398612011-11-07T20:16:00.000-05:002011-11-07T20:16:15.139-05:00

Over the past several months I have been trying to listen to the three different campaigns for Mayor to decide who to vote for to lead the city of Waterbury during the next two years. I tried to keep an open mind about all three candidates, which was no easy task, considering the large amount of negative mailers I received from both the Republicans and the Democrats. It seemed to me that most of

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-77905450393568038152011-11-05T12:00:00.000-04:002011-11-05T12:00:00.097-04:00

Well, it looks like the City of Waterbury has finally dug itself out of last weekends freak October snowstorm, and things are slowly returning to normal. Any sense of normalcy will be short-lived however as the three mayoral campaigns gear up for the election on Tuesday, November 8. In preparation for Tuesday's election, I have prepared a short, non-partisan, primer for those of you that may

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-8690338688391991142011-10-29T12:00:00.000-04:002011-10-29T12:00:03.456-04:00

On Thursday I posted about Commissioner O'Leary's surprise verbal attack on fellow Board of Education Commissioner and Democratic candidate Pat Hayes in the Wednesday Republican-American. It seems that, after reading Wednesday's paper Commissioner O'Leary realized that he made a rather large mistake, and issued an apology to Commissioner Hayes, both personally and in writing. While I admire

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-55992949183240121472011-10-28T17:00:00.000-04:002011-10-28T17:00:04.304-04:00

As I mentioned yesterday, Commissioner O'Leary seems to have no problem ripping apart a member of his own ticket, sometimes even without provocation. On the other side of the spectrum, it also appears that Commissioner O'Leary is playing favorites among the candidates on his under ticket. While I was driving around Waterbury, I noticed a sign that said "O'Leary Mayor / Harkins Board of Education

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-92156008986538200702011-10-27T23:00:00.000-04:002011-10-27T23:00:04.304-04:00

Over the past week I have seen quite a few disturbing signs out of the O'Leary for Mayor camp that makes me feel that Commissioner O'Leary would not make a good Mayor for the city of Waterbury.In my opinion, the Mayor of any city, especially as one as large as Waterbury, needs to be able to work with a wide range of people to solve the myriad of problems facing it. Quite often, you are going to

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-71150581686596113072011-08-15T15:33:00.004-04:002011-08-15T20:41:53.708-04:00

The following letter was sent to the officers of the Waterbury Republican Town Committee as well as the 71st District officers on August 8, 2011:For most of my life I have been involved in Waterbury politics on a range of levels, from stuffing envelopes, to serving on boards and commissions, to running for elected office. My involvement in the political process was a way for me to serve the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-50794458100261716362011-08-07T12:51:00.004-04:002011-08-07T14:15:52.208-04:00

During the budget process this past spring, I took the opportunity to attend the meetings between the Board of Aldermen's Budget Subcommittee and the various Department Heads throughout Waterbury. For the most part these meetings were quick and painless, a discussion of what had been cut from the budget to try and make ends meet, and if there was anything else that could be cut. However, the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-3871731238683524602011-07-18T16:50:00.000-04:002011-07-18T16:53:02.578-04:00

Since the end of my campaign for Mayor, I have been contemplating what form my community service would take going forward. The number one question before me was whether I would run for a different elected office this year, or if I would sit this election out and possibly return to politics in 2013.After much careful deliberation, I have decided not to seek the Republican Party’s nomination to

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-70849694442611294282011-06-14T22:30:00.003-04:002011-06-14T23:02:13.813-04:00

Bryan P. Baker today announced the distribution of his surplus campaign funds to two local non-profit organizations. In accordance with SEEC regulations, any surplus funds that remain when a campaign committee or an exploratory committee is dissolved, may be distributed to any non-profit organization with a 501(c)(3) designation. Therefore, Bryan has decided to donate the surplus funds to two

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-60589536657701874432011-05-31T14:47:00.002-04:002011-05-31T15:01:15.952-04:00

With Mayor Jarjura's decision to switch his party affiliation from Democrat to Republican today, there has been a massive shift in the political landscape as we close in on the November 8 election. Below is a copy of my prepared remarks at this morning's press conference:Three months ago I submitted my name for consideration as a Republican Candidate for Mayor in this year’s municipal election.

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-25803017970762907482011-03-02T15:44:00.002-05:002011-03-02T15:57:56.133-05:00

As I mentioned yesterday, I was sworn in as a member of the Human Rights Commission this afternoon.The oath of office was administered by Deputy City Clerk Liz Ferrer, who is on the right of the attached picture. (Picture courtesy of Debi Schatzle-Baker)I am looking forward to my first meeting as a Commission member tonight at 6:30 in the Mayor's Conference Room.

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-74745010446139163772011-03-01T17:06:00.001-05:002011-03-01T17:07:51.573-05:00

This afternoon I was honored to receive a letter from the Mayor’s office appointing me to the Human Rights Commission, effective immediately. I will be sworn in to the Commission on Wednesday, March 2 at 1:30 PM in the City Clerk’s office.As most of you know I have spent the past six years working for the best interests of the city. Between my work on the Environmental Control Commission, the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-70595262140521461722011-02-28T21:46:00.002-05:002011-02-28T21:51:00.249-05:00

Since I filed the paperwork forming my exploratory committee last friday, I've been keeping myself busy getting the word out that I am in the race.So far I've set up my own webpage, my own Facebook page, and my own Twitter feed. Take your pick and follow along as the campaign gets rolling.WebsiteFacebookTwitter

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-28151703726348618372011-02-25T19:50:00.002-05:002011-02-25T19:57:37.963-05:00

The 2011 election cycle promises to be one of the most interesting campaigns the city of Waterbury has seen in a long time. With 3 Democratic candidates already having declared their intentions to run for Mayor, there is sure to be an intense fight for the Democratic nomination.When you add the Republican and Independent parties to the mix, there is a strong chance that the November election will

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-50962787547316941952011-01-17T14:43:00.002-05:002011-01-17T16:01:39.864-05:00

Over the past week there has been a considerable amount of controversy generated by the August Wilson play, "Joe Turner's Come and Gone". The debate erupted last week when it was discovered that students at the Waterbury Arts Magnet School were rehearsing the play despite the objections of the Superintendent, Dr. David Snead. Dr. Snead's objection to the play was based on the fact that a rather

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-67185494318603156592011-01-05T16:37:00.003-05:002011-01-06T18:32:04.618-05:00

Tuesday nights announcement that Wolcott Police Chief Neil O'Leary is resigning, effective January 29, has sent ripples throughout the political circles in the city of Waterbury.As was mentioned in the article, the conventional wisdom is that Chief O'Leary will announce his candidacy for Mayor of Waterbury sometime in February. Any announcement will have to wait until then, due to federal laws

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-89627416330437727342011-01-02T12:14:00.012-05:002011-01-02T12:50:24.915-05:00

Yesterday afternoon the City of Waterbury held a rededication ceremony and ribbon cutting for our newly restored and renovated City Hall.Originally built in 1915 and designed by famed architect Cass Gilbert, City Hall had been the crown jewel of Waterbury until recently. Decay, and an act of vandalism, forced the City to act in 2007.Now, after almost three years of work, the building is complete

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-81779982881528336472010-12-22T17:03:00.002-05:002010-12-22T17:15:38.709-05:00

My post yesterday about the busy weekend in Downtown Waterbury drew a comment on Facebook about some of the problems that our downtown still faces. While I have never denied that there are still issues to be worked out, there is a lot more going on than some people would believe. Therefore, in the latest installment of my efforts to market downtown, I have attempted address these concerns. In no

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-42692987506718195132010-12-21T17:37:00.003-05:002010-12-21T22:24:27.925-05:00

This weekend was another wonderful time for people to visit Downtown Waterbury. A few of the things for people to see included...Performances of "A Christmas Carol" by Shakesperience Productions. Of the 6 shows, which were held in the Shakesperience studio on Bank St, 5 were either sold out, or had less then 10 empty seats. The crowds were wonderful, and those of us who were in the show had a

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-49464643781099960602010-12-09T18:08:00.003-05:002010-12-09T18:33:32.979-05:00

For those of you who have been keeping track, it has now been 93 days since Alderman Paul Ciochetti resigned his seat on the Waterbury Board of Aldermen due to health concerns.While I realize that Alderman Ciochetti's departure leaves a void on the Board of Aldermen that will be difficult to fill by his successor, I am getting more and more confused by the silence coming from the Mayor's office

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-11097725168817936312010-11-15T14:30:00.002-05:002010-11-15T14:51:57.522-05:00

It seems that the political attacks in Waterbury never take a break. I understand the frustration people express when candidates sling mud at each other during the campaign for higher office. It is taken to a whole new low however when the newspaper decides to join in the fun and attack someone only for what it looks like they did.Those of you who know me best probably saw last Tuesday's article

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-58051383000156235572010-11-03T14:35:00.002-04:002010-11-03T15:24:54.933-04:00

The dust has settled after another interesting and exciting election (At least here in Waterbury.) While I was disappointed by the results of many of the state races, the results of the Charter Revision Questions provided a bright spot to a cold night.I realize that some of you may have disagreed with my opinions on the eight questions that were decided yesterday, and I respect that. In fact, I

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-29061065899269336972010-11-01T23:51:00.002-04:002010-11-02T00:18:20.819-04:00

This is the seventh and final installment in a seven part series regarding the Charter Revision Questions that will be on the Waterbury ballot on Tuesday. Remember that Questions 1 and 2 will be on the front of the ballot, while Questions 3 through 8 will be on the back of the ballot.QUESTION 1:Shall the Charter be revised to clarify the City’s reservation of rights and alternative remedies in

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-57883097458923248072010-11-01T23:44:00.001-04:002010-11-01T23:46:03.146-04:00

This is the sixth in a seven part series regarding the Charter Revision Questions that will be on the Waterbury ballot on Tuesday. Remember that Questions 1 and 2 will be on the front of the ballot, while Questions 3 through 8 will be on the back of the ballot.QUESTION 2:Shall the Charter be revised so that the non-majority members of the boards and commissions are chosen from a list of

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-64126751430886019692010-10-31T20:31:00.002-04:002010-10-31T20:36:45.263-04:00

This is the fifth in a seven part series regarding the Charter Revision Questions that will be on the Waterbury ballot on Tuesday. Remember that Questions 1 and 2 will be on the front of the ballot, while Questions 3 through 8 will be on the back of the ballot.QUESTION 3:Shall the Charter be revised to (1) eliminate the elected positions of City Clerk and Town Clerk; (2) substitute therefor a

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-86357413046655857442010-10-31T18:08:00.003-04:002010-10-31T18:20:26.918-04:00

This is the fourth in my seven part series detailing the Charter Revision Questions that will be on the Waterbury ballot on Tuesday. This post will focus on Question #4.QUESTION 4:Shall the Charter be revised to require a five-point preference for City residents on all civil service examinations?Under this revision, the five-point residential preference given on entry-level civil service

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-65795137763435305172010-10-28T12:21:00.002-04:002010-10-28T12:30:30.217-04:00

This is the third in an expected seven part series discussing the Charter Revision Questions that are located on this year’s ballot in Waterbury. This post will focus on Question #5.QUESTION 5: Shall the Charter be revised in order to reestablish the City’s ability to contract to develop electrical energy by water power from any water within the City’s municipal waterworks system? This revision

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-53823258218387002562010-10-27T15:02:00.002-04:002010-10-27T15:35:26.453-04:00

This is the second in an expected seven part series discussing the Charter Revision Questions that are located on this year’s ballot in Waterbury. This post will focus on Question #6. QUESTION 6: Shall the Charter be revised to allow the Board of Education to hire the superintendent of Schools without using civil service procedures? This revision eliminates the requirement that the Board of

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-44128975705374325062010-10-26T21:20:00.002-04:002010-10-26T22:38:18.266-04:00

In an effort to inform the citizens of Waterbury about the Charter Revision Questions that they will be voting on this year, I have decided to write a series of posts on the 8 questions. These questions will be found on the right side and the back of your ballot. Please take the time to vote on these important measures.As I discuss each question I will include both the text of the question (in

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-9247477035190903532010-08-08T11:06:00.003-04:002010-08-08T11:12:38.028-04:00

The 2010 primary is quickly approaching, and the campaigns are definitely heating up on all fronts. Some of the political battles have reached a fever pitch, in terms of both intensity and negativity. I can’t remember the last time I got so much campaign literature during the month of AugustWhile I have made no secret of being a registered Republican, I have always felt that it is important to

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-64499926142229536892010-08-02T17:27:00.004-04:002010-08-02T18:11:38.099-04:00

As a result of Commissioner D’Angelo’s letter in the Sunday Republican of July 25, I decided to do a little research and find out just how Waterbury’s scores stacked up to the rest of the state. What I found provides an interesting insight to the discussions that are sure to arise as we head into the 2010-11 school year.Some of the numbers were disappointing, while others actually gave the city

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-51519819085254638562010-07-30T20:42:00.002-04:002010-07-30T20:44:51.101-04:00

In the July 26 edition of the Republican-American, the following was published in the "Brass Tacks" column:Job with Bureau of Water preceded elected position. Alderman Ernest M. Brunelli wants everybody to know that he got his job honestly.Brunelli is a temporary worker for the Bureau of Water, which has been accused of nepotism. The son of superintendent Kenneth Skov and relative of Skov's

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-63848522416415427012010-07-28T22:19:00.006-04:002010-07-30T07:38:28.675-04:00

In the Sunday, July 25 edition of the Republican-American there was a very interesting letter from Board of Education Commissioner Paul D'Angelo.In the letter Commissioner D’Angelo calls for radical changes in the Waterbury School System. It is his opinion that the status quo is no longer acceptable if Waterbury students are going to succeed in the 21st Century. I agree with Commissioner D'Angelo

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-25704274657872379862009-11-16T19:58:00.002-05:002009-11-16T20:34:02.028-05:00

This morning as I was getting ready for work, I took a quick look at the Republican-American and saw this on the front page:Dads in school questionedNews last week that fathers were volunteer patrols at a city middle school has some Board of Education members questioning the safety of the program.Having read, and supported, the concepts listed in the original article, I was quite curious and

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-51883996894478687272009-11-10T21:43:00.003-05:002009-11-10T22:14:35.186-05:00

Now that Governor Rell has announced that she will be stepping away from the spotlight of elected office, politicians and pundits from across the state have begun reflecting on her tenure as our Chief Executive.Most will focus on the accomplishments of her administration, along with her lengthy career in the State House and as Lieutenant Governor. All will treat the Governor with the respect she

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-44890611959347986602009-11-06T14:22:00.006-05:002009-11-08T21:43:56.278-05:00

Now that the dust has settled from Tuesday's election, and I've had some time to reflect, there is something I would like to discuss about the results.I realize that I'm not the first person to bring this up (h/t to Raechel Guest), but I was extremely disappointed to see the low turnout for Tuesday's election.What makes the turnout on Tuesday so disappointing is that this level of voter apathy is

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-33234335481953906552009-11-04T14:24:00.001-05:002009-11-04T14:38:04.909-05:00

For various reasons, mostly due to exhaustion and frustration with "Monday-morning quarterbacks", this blog will no longer be accepting "Anonymous" comments.People are still welcome to comment on my posts, but if you are not willing to stand by what you say by putting your name next to it, is it really worth saying?

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-42562721045276712282009-11-04T11:15:00.001-05:002009-11-04T12:11:37.889-05:00

I wish I had a better title for this morning’s post, but sometimes there are no other words to describe how a person feels.For the past 3 months now my friends on Row A and I have poured our hearts and souls in to the campaign for seats on the Board of Aldermen and the Board of Education. I had the privilege of running with some very talented and very nice individuals. As the sun rose yesterday

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-24464586061958911032009-11-02T08:45:00.001-05:002009-11-02T09:13:25.628-05:00

To my friends, family, and supporters:Tomorrow is Election Day, that wonderful time where we get to experience what DPUC Commissioner Kevin DelGobbo once called a "controlled revolution".As you know (and are probably tired of hearing), my name is on the Waterbury ballot for the Board of Aldermen on Row A. I am running this year with eight outstanding individuals who share my desire to bring a

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-91841708221878172442009-10-24T16:52:00.003-04:002009-10-24T17:17:52.788-04:00

Last night the Bunker Hill Neighborhood Association held a Mayoral Forum, and Meet the Candidates night for its members. The evening was a wonderful opportunity for the residents of Bunker Hill to meet all of us running for office this year (41 of us by my count), and hear the thoughts of the Mayoral contenders on the city of Waterbury.The most interesting part of last night was how disparate

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-33597998187456199472009-09-22T21:57:00.003-04:002009-09-22T22:29:36.838-04:00

This morning the Registrar of Voters held its lottery to determine the positions of the Board of Aldermen and Board of Education candidates on the November ballot. Below is the results of this lottery.(Due to space constraints, the ballot has been turned 90 degrees.)PositionRepublicanDemocratIndependent5PalladinoPiccochiDePillo6BakerBegnalAbreu7Van

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-86179761586366780652009-09-21T22:09:00.002-04:002009-09-21T22:47:30.655-04:00

For the past few weeks there has been a lot of discussion regarding the proposed purchase of 101 acres of land up on Park Rd by the City of Waterbury. The land is currently owned by Mr. Norman Drubner, who is hoping to develop the land by putting approximately 500 condominiums on the property.The local Neighborhood Association has been fighting this development for several months, and the Zoning

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-65482595827955290132009-08-24T22:25:00.002-04:002009-08-24T22:45:36.957-04:00

Tonight I was at the regular meeting of the Waterbury Board of Aldermen, where I try and take the time to listen to the public speaking. I find this gives me an insight into what issues the citizens of Waterbury find important. It also allows me to keep tabs on what the other political parties are bringing up as "hot button" issues for the municipal election in November. Tonight, however, the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-70711034208019017412009-08-08T15:27:00.002-04:002009-08-08T17:39:01.629-04:00

Now that the conventions are done, and everyone knows who is running for what on which ticket, the job of campaigning begins in earnest. Now it is time for us candidates to go out door knocking, shaking hands, meeting and listening to the citizens of Waterbury, and doing all we can to prove that we are the best people for the positions we are seeking. I hope to be able to show all of Waterbury

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-8396141968559367622009-08-03T20:43:00.002-04:002009-08-03T23:44:59.765-04:00

In three months the citizens of Waterbury will be going to the polls to chose who will lead their City for the next two years. As you should be aware, my name will be on the Republican line this year, as I seek election to the Board of Aldermen. Often, when my friends and family hear about my decision to seek elected office, the number one question I am asked is why? Why am I taking on such a

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-77324265964890538302009-07-27T21:15:00.002-04:002009-07-27T22:00:23.193-04:00

Tonight the Republican Party in the City of Waterbury held their convention for local office. The convention was more interesting then usual, as the Republicans have decided to cross-endorse current Mayor, Mike Jarjura, as he seeks a fifth term in office. As a result of this cross endorsement, the Republicans only put up six candidates for the Board of Aldermen, and three candidates for the Board

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-53968373514976505562009-07-08T21:16:00.004-04:002009-07-08T21:56:08.962-04:00

In today's Republican-American was a headline that I had been hoping to see for several months now. "Power plant calls it quits." I know that there are those in town who have accused the citizens of Waterbury of being NIMBY's and not taking a good look at the facts. However, as a member of the Waterbury Environmental Control Commission, and a nearly lifelong resident of the city, I know that this

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-25899588616629253842009-06-21T11:47:00.003-04:002009-06-21T12:17:55.684-04:00

In the local section of today's Republican-American there is an article regarding the state of the proposed Chestnut Hill Bio-Energy plant. Mr. Larson does a commendable job reporting the status of the plant, and the opposition against it. For someone who is new to the issue, the article is a wonderful primer on the ongoing debate.My biggest concern about the article was is the closing paragraphs

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-75776395732248670552009-06-17T12:26:00.002-04:002009-06-17T12:35:16.888-04:00

From the "Daily Digest" in today's Republican-American:The police department assigned an officer to accompany Mayor Michael J. Jarjura on Tuesday after a woman told police she wanted to get close to Jarjura to conduct a one-person protest.Police didn't think the mayor was in any danger and said the woman called the department seeking a protest permit, but did not identify herself. However, the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-50883936856861525172009-06-14T10:34:00.002-04:002009-06-14T10:46:14.893-04:00

For a while now this blog has focused on the political aspects of Waterbury, and my involvement in some of the issues facing the Brass City. Not everything in Waterbury is politically based, however, and every so often there comes a time for fun and entertainment.Starting this Thursday (6/18), Shakesperience Productions will be hosting their 5th Annual "Shakespeare In Library Park". This event

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-58909236403998233302009-05-26T16:30:00.002-04:002009-05-26T17:29:22.852-04:00

Today was a rather disappointing one in terms of my efforts to make a fully informed decision regarding the Chestnut Hill BioEnergy proposal. Over the past two months my fellow members of the Environmental Control Commission and I have been researching the science behind the proposal, and the history of the company involved.Some of our information supported the proposal, especially with regards

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-59245683523533532152009-05-24T23:34:00.005-04:002009-05-24T23:50:58.336-04:00

As we honor our fallen Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen this year I am reminded of words that have echoed through the centuries. These two men said all that needed to be said, so I will not pontificate or expound on the obvious. All I can say is God Bless America.Gettysburg AddressFour score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty,

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-56838305918885856102009-05-11T10:41:00.005-04:002009-05-11T18:22:02.004-04:00

As you may be aware, for the past few years I have looked to improve the city through my involvement in political organizations and campaigns. Though I was unsuccessful, I took great pride in running for the Board of Aldermen with Representative D'Amelio in 2007. I have been proud to led my support to Rep. D'Amelio, Rep. Noujaim, and Sen. Caliguiri in their recent campaigns. That is also why I

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-71341475618620438632009-05-01T19:39:00.003-04:002009-05-01T23:10:01.768-04:00

Since the presentation by Chestnut Hill Bio-Energy Company to the Waterbury Environmental Control Commission back on the 26 of March, I have been carefully weighing the positives and the negatives of the proposed food-waste to electricity plant. In my last post I mentioned that I was supportive of the concept, but uncertain about this particular project. As usual, the devil is in the details, and

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-67986449794798596522009-04-13T16:13:00.002-04:002009-04-13T17:05:24.441-04:00

Recently there has been a considerable amount of ink dedicated to the Food-to-Energy plant that is being considered for the old Anamet site in downtown Waterbury. The plant will be operated by Chestnut Hill BioEnergy, out of Massachusetts, and will generate 12 MW of electricity when completed in 2013. Because of the First Light natural gas plant, that is being constructed a few blocks away from

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-71477023591736430032009-04-11T16:58:00.001-04:002009-04-11T16:58:40.695-04:00

This is a test of my Blogging by BlackBerry system. This is only a test.

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-34703325489878263522009-04-10T17:33:00.004-04:002009-04-10T17:51:10.277-04:00

Those of you who have been regular readers of this blog and are my friends on Facebook have been following the Letters to the Editor that have been going forth since January between myself and Mr. Frank M. DePaola. I have enjoyed the debate, and was ready with a response to his April 2nd letter.Unfortunately, when I sent my letter to the Republican-American, I got this response...Mr. Baker:Thanks

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-49530118821465291242009-03-31T23:02:00.003-04:002009-03-31T23:20:37.179-04:00

Today was a very interesting day for me in terms of my political future in the city of Waterbury, and my personal comfort level. As you are probably aware I have been a common sight at recent Board of Aldermen meetings here in the City of Waterbury, and when there is something important to discuss, I do not shy away from the podium. I have also spent a considerable amount of time writing "Letters

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-91731355056111520082009-03-02T13:44:00.003-05:002009-03-02T14:05:40.945-05:00

In his latest letter to the editor, (When have GOP leaders done good for Waterbury? – February 24) Frank M. DePaola exhibits the symptoms of a rather intense case of political amnesia. In his letter Mr. DePaola claims to be responding to the information and opinions that I presented in my letter of 1/18, yet he spends most of his time repeating the same mistakes he made in his letter of 1/13. I

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-30181111899531336292009-02-12T18:28:00.004-05:002009-02-12T18:51:08.165-05:00

Today is the 200th birthday of two men that had a tremendous impact on the world around us.In the world of politics we celebrate the birth of Abraham Lincoln, our 16th President, the father of the modern Republican Party, and one of the most revered men in American History.In the world of science we celebrate the birth of Charles Darwin, naturalist, and father of our modern evolutionary

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-45089738545588090392009-01-24T13:21:00.003-05:002009-01-24T13:42:45.853-05:00

Today's Republican-American finally reported what many of us in political circles have known for several months now, the Independents main goal in the 2008 legislative elections was to line their own pockets. ("Independents Shared Wealth" - Penelope Overton)I first reported on this issue back on 12/3, laying out how much money Larry DePillo and Mike Telesca received from Alderman Frank Burgio's

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-80671154510751620442009-01-14T21:38:00.003-05:002009-03-03T11:36:45.148-05:00

For the past month now there has been a rather heated exchange in the “Letter To The Editor” section of the Republican-American regarding the “accomplishments” of the Independent Party of Waterbury.http://www.rep-am.com/articles/2008/12/14/letters/385931.txtCity's Independents are 'petty people' who pretend to lead. – Jason Van Stonehttp://www.rep-am.com/articles/2008/12/29/letters/388568.

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-45095050019496783062009-01-08T16:24:00.004-05:002009-03-03T13:47:10.281-05:00

In today's Republican-American there was an editorial regarding the Board of Alderman's recent 12-2 approval of a new contract for the Waterbury Fire Department.http://www.rep-am.com/articles/2009/01/08/opinion/390286.txtAs I read, and reread this editorial, I couldn't help but feel hurt and angry at the treatment my "local" paper gives to "Waterbury's Bravest". While I can understand the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-60801289169881801722008-12-03T22:24:00.002-05:002008-12-03T22:56:31.659-05:00

Tonight on his cable access show, State Representative Selim Noujaim (R-74) finally took the gloves off against the Independent Party. While the Independents in Waterbury have long been known for their constant griping and moaning about the state of affairs in Waterbury, their most common refrain is that they are looking out for the interests of the citizens of Waterbury. That is their

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-5517648490798401942008-11-22T11:48:00.002-05:002008-11-22T13:39:03.928-05:00

With all the work that is being done on the schools here in Waterbury, there has arisen a need for some interesting changes to serve the best interests of the students. This has become especially apparent with the renovation/construction of Gilmartin school getting underway. It is obvious that keeping the students at Gilmartin while the construction is underway would be impossible. The

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-34359936394405274002008-11-11T10:45:00.002-05:002008-11-11T11:27:11.314-05:00

We are only one week removed from a tiring and historic presidential campaign, but the political machine of Waterbury never stops running. We are 357 days from the next round of municipal elections and the fundraising and campaigning is already in full swing.Board of Aldermen President J Paul Vance Jr. is holding a fundraiser tomorrow night at the Ponte Club. It is Alderman Vance's intention to

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1172029875849047852007-02-20T22:49:00.000-05:002007-02-20T22:51:15.860-05:00

This speech was delivered to the Board of Aldermen on 2-20-2007My fellow citizens, the time has come for the posturing to stop and action to begin. Two weeks ago I was here advocating for the complete and proper restoration of City Hall. Judging from what I have seen published in the newspaper since that meeting; most of you share my opinions as to the future of this building. I applaud your

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1170730848313050772007-02-05T21:58:00.000-05:002007-02-05T22:00:48.333-05:00

This speech was delivered to the Waterbury Board of Aldermen on 2-5-2007Members of the Board of Aldermen, Mr. Mayor, and my fellow citizens, I am here before you again to urge the proper restoration of our historic City Hall. This week we heard from the Waterbury Development Corporation about five potential options for this building, ranging from mothballing the building, to complete and

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1170384971522293272007-02-01T21:27:00.000-05:002007-02-01T21:56:11.536-05:00

Tonight the Board of Aldermen had a special meeting regarding the issue of Waterbury’s historic City Hall. At tonight’s meeting Mike O’Conner from the Waterbury Development Corporation presented the city with five options for dealing with the center of our local government. Each option had its benefits and its detriments, with the quantity of each depending on which side of the political

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1169000673131329012007-01-16T21:23:00.000-05:002007-01-16T21:24:33.143-05:00

This speech was given to the City Planning Commission on January 16, 2007 I am here tonight to speak in support of the proposed moratorium on high-density developments within the city. I feel that the character of our city is currently at risk. While the city moves forward with the Plan of Conservation and Development, there seems to be a rush of proposals bent on getting as many

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1167882688461979752007-01-03T22:35:00.000-05:002007-01-03T22:51:28.486-05:00

In two weeks time the Waterbury Financial Planning and Assistance Board (also known as the State Oversight Board) is expected to return turn control of the city of Waterbury to the city government itself. Many in the city are praising this move as something that is long overdue, as a sign of Waterbury’s new found strength and success. For the most part I agree with these people, the fact that

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1166588583093992572006-12-19T23:03:00.000-05:002006-12-19T23:23:03.106-05:00

Last night the Waterbury Board of Education took a very important step in the fight to improve the city's reputation. They reminded everyone that the most important word in the phrase "student-athlete" is student. While this is not a revolutionary viewpoint in the world of High-School sports, it is about time that the city got on board with the colleges and the rest of America and forced our

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1165895046908907672006-12-11T22:29:00.000-05:002006-12-11T22:44:06.920-05:00

This speech was delivered before the Waterbury Board of Aldermen on December 11, 2006Members of the Board of Aldermen, Mr. Mayor, my fellow citizens, tonight is a night of great importance here in Waterbury. Tonight the members of this board will vote to either approve or reject a short list of improvements to City Hall that will allow the building to remain open. As much as I love this grand

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1165195790852521282006-12-03T19:46:00.000-05:002006-12-03T20:29:50.926-05:00

Now is the time for the citizens of Waterbury who care about what happens to City Hall and the downtown area to step forward and be counted. Now is the time for words to give power to meaning, and people to give power to their words. Now is the time for people to show just how much power a building has in the city of Waterbury.This week is of vital importance to the future of City Hall, and with

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1164070773577935812006-11-20T19:54:00.000-05:002006-11-20T19:59:33.603-05:00

This speech was given before the Waterbury Board of Aldermen on November 20, 2006The question of what to do with the grand building that we are now standing in cannot be concluded with the vote on November 7. City Hall is too important as a governmental center and a historical icon to be left in limbo any longer.I understand completely that on the 7th the citizens of Waterbury that voted voiced

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1161663939369276312006-10-23T23:39:00.000-04:002006-10-24T00:25:39.426-04:00

Des-pi-ca-ble-adjectivedeserving to be despised; contemptibleNever was there a word more appropriate to describe the tone taken by the Democratic candidate in Connecticut's 16th District State Senate race, Dave Zoni. In what can only be described as a desperate and depraved attempt to garner votes, a mailer was sent out to the people of the 16th district, which is so disgusting that it turns the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1161058198963217712006-10-17T00:09:00.000-04:002006-10-20T20:22:13.280-04:00

These days in Waterbury it seems all the rage to talk about getting tough on a variety of issues. Ranging from the test scores of our students on the CMT and CAPT, to concerns of nepotism, from blight, to tax collection. Waterbury is always trying to ensure that it presents a wonderful image to the surrounding towns, an image of a city working hard to regain its prestige and respect in the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1159915309139911372006-10-03T18:32:00.000-04:002006-10-03T18:42:45.316-04:00

Sometimes it is just amazing to see the arrogance of some members of the Waterbury political scene. Back on Monday, Board of Education member John Theriault made a definite point of criticizing a budget increase in the plan to build three new K-8 schools in the city of Waterbury. This plan was approved unanimously back on September 18 by the Board of Education members that were in attendance. Mr.

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1159241409831998262006-09-25T23:14:00.000-04:002006-09-25T23:30:09.866-04:00

Recently I've been amazed by the sheer arrogance and sense of self righteousness shown by some members of the Waterbury Board of Alderman. By refusing to meet with the mayor of Prospect, the Board of Aldermen is presenting the region with an attitude of superiority that they truly do not deserve. While I can understand some of the reasons that the Aldermen present for this attitude, I find it

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1158806774416149242006-09-20T22:24:00.000-04:002006-09-20T22:46:14.476-04:00

This week the Waterbury Board of Education took a major step in bringing the school system into the 21st century. The local school system has been overcrowded for years, and now the plan to build three new K-8 neighborhood schools is getting off the ground. When this project is completed it will mark the first phase of an extensive reworking of the Waterbury schools to bring our students to the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1157918656790236272006-09-10T15:58:00.000-04:002006-09-18T22:06:42.216-04:00

(This letter was submitted to the Waterbury Republican American and run on September 9, 2006. This is the original letter.)Now that the calendar has turned to September the citizens of Waterbury prepare for another round of elections to the Connecticut General Assembly. This election year holds special opportunity for the citizens of Waterbury as we have an open Senate seat and two strong

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1126843404223449832005-09-16T00:03:00.000-04:002006-09-18T22:07:30.253-04:00

Wednesday, September 14, 2005 was a red-letter day in the history of the Waterbury School system and Wilby High School in particular. On that day Wilby High School retired the number of an exceptional student and basketball player. As far as this blogger can remember, this is the first number ever retired by a Waterbury Public School.Ryan Gomes, Wilby High School Class of 2000, has done what

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1125635221227648492005-09-02T00:27:00.000-04:002005-09-02T00:27:01.233-04:00

As the Labor Day weekend approaches the signs of fall in New England are all around us.  The students are returning to school, the summer heat and humidity is starting to break (hopefully), and a certain feeling of apathy creeps into the air.It is this apathy that I wish to address in this post.  It seems that all to often we Waterburians forget about the wonderful gems that are right here in the

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15563460.post-1124407613462679402005-08-18T19:27:00.000-04:002005-08-18T19:26:53.466-04:00

This will not be a place of political infighting or griping. Instead of long discussions of the topic of the day and all that's wrong with it, or how people are going to have their taxes skyrocket, we will instead discuss topics such as the accomplishments of Main Street Waterbury, the reconstruction of East Main Street, and especially the achievements of Waterbury Students.This blog is intended

Bryan P. Bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01873738854423448938noreply@blogger.com0