A New Dawn for Waterbury: Your Voice Matters

Citizens of Waterbury,

My name is Neil Ford, Chairman of the Waterbury Democrats, a progressive movement grounded in one core belief: this city belongs to its people.

I’m writing to you today from the heart. Waterbury has a proud history, and many of us still carry hope for what this city can be. That hope is not gone—it’s waking up.

For the first time in a long time, real change is happening at City Hall.

The newly seated Board of Aldermen is no longer rushing through business. Meetings that once wrapped up in two hours are now lasting seven or eight—not because of chaos, but because meaningful conversations are finally taking place. Tough questions are being asked. Long-ignored voices are finally being heard.

And most importantly, you now have more ways than ever to participate.

Residents can submit written public testimony to the Board of Aldermen, ensuring that even if you can’t attend in person—because of work, family, health, or life—you still have a voice. Your words still matter. Your concerns still count.

How You Can Be Heard

Submitting written testimony is simple and powerful:

• Write your testimony with your name, address or district, and the agenda item or issue you are addressing.

• Submit your testimony by email or handwritten letter.

Email your testimony to:

• mdalton@waterburyct.org

• abattle@waterburyct.org

Mail or drop it off at:

Waterbury City Clerk’s Office

235 Grand Street, Courtyard Level

Waterbury, CT 06702

Deadline: All written testimony must be received by the Friday before the Board of Aldermen meeting to be included in the official record.

Your voice doesn’t end there.

Watch and Stay Informed

Residents are also encouraged to watch Board of Aldermen meetings live or on replay through the City of Waterbury’s official YouTube channel. This allows you to stay informed, follow discussions in real time, and see how decisions that affect your neighborhood are made—right from your phone, tablet, or computer.

Transparency matters. Access matters. And informed residents build stronger communities.

This moment is also being shaped by courageous leadership.

Alderman Rafael Feliciano-Roman and Alderwoman Sandra Martinez-McCarthy have chosen people over politics. Because they refuse to bow to political pressure or vote against their conscience, they have been treated differently—but they continue to stand firm.

Together, they formed The People’s Caucus, a commitment to listen first, lead with integrity, and bring the voices of the 5th District—and all of Waterbury—into every decision they make.

This is what democracy looks like when it’s alive.

Waterbury is turning a page. Not overnight. Not perfectly. But honestly—and with heart.

Now is the time to speak.

Now is the time to participate.

Now is the time to remind City Hall who it serves.

This city is ours. And together, we can build the Waterbury our families deserve.

With respect and hope,

Neil Ford

Chairman, Waterbury Democrats