New Police Chief Takes Oath; A ‘Shocking’ Payroll Discovery; Union Workers Wary of Proposed Budget; Bye-Bye, Pool Bubble

NORTH HAVEN – The town’s finest ushered in a new era of its 67-year history this week when Thomas McLoughlin was sworn in as chief of police.

McLoughlin is a 32-year veteran of the North Haven Police Department who most recently served as deputy chief under the now retired chief, James X. DiCarlo.

“As one of the remarkable chapters comes to a close, another one unfolds,” said First Selectman Michael J. Freda.

McLoughlin said, “People know I’m very experienced and confident. You’ll get the best police service we can offer you. There’s a commitment on my part and my officers’ part to do our best.”

See pictures from the swearing-in ceremony by clicking here.

EAST HAVEN – John Doe is now the most popular name in East Haven since it was discovered this week that the Board of Education has been paying an unidentified individual – twice.

The custodial employee, who is being called John Doe, has reportedly been getting paid for the last six years for services that are contractually guaranteed in a lease of the building at 290 Dodge Ave. Doe has also been receiving benefits.

The revelation resulted in a special meeting this week of the Board of Education. "It's absolutely shocking," said member Kristin Vineyard.

"Taxpayers of East Haven work very hard for their money and we as elected officials have an obligation to manage the finances with the utmost scrutiny," said Board member Christine Maisano. "These findings tonight are disturbing. The taxpayers deserve an answer."

And the board has endeavored to do just that. Members voted unanimously to conduct a “forensic audit.”

Meanwhile, the story has struck a chord in the community. It has 81 comments and counting.

Check out the story for more details on the John Doe situation and to see what residents have to say.

HAMDEN – Municipal leaders got an earful this week from town employees who believe the proposed budget puts an unfair financial burden on them.

The town employees’ comments dominated a public hearing that was attended by about 50 people. for fiscal year 2011-12 drew concern from town hall union workers who are not pleased about concessions that are being asked of them, including wage concessions and furlough days.

Check out Hamden Patch to watch a video from the hearing.

CHESHIRE – The bubble has burst, kind of.

Workers this week tore down the town’s pool bubble. The structure suffered irreparable damage this winter when a portion of it caved in . The town is negotiating with its insurance company to determine if the cost of a new bubble will be covered.

For now, though, you can watch a video of the bubble being taken down.