Why I want Enfield’s old schools torn down, not renovated

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  Water-stained ceiling tiles in an office at Hazardville Memorial School I've been researching hazardous materials in Enfield's elementary schools and reading the inspection reports that federal law requires. Every school with asbestos must get a full inspection every three years and a check every six months. Enfield's last full inspection was in 2024. The last six-month check was in June. I went to the school department and looked at the records to gain a better understanding of what's involved. I did not realize, until I looked at the material, how much effort the school system has to take to ensure the children are safe. I'm planning to write something in greater detail, but for now the opposition has to understand the real implications of a "no" vote. Asbestos may sit in old floor tile and glue, pipe insulation and ceiling material. Asbestos materials that are sealed or in good condition do not put fibers in the air. They become a problem when they ar...

Editorial: A legal victory with complications


The Connecticut Superior Court ruling Tuesday validated State Rep. John Santanella's complaint. This is a clear win, and allows him to avoid an August 11 Democratic primary against his challenger, former town attorney Tom Tyler. Tyler can appeal, but absent that, Santanella can shift his focus to November.

But a winning legal outcome is not the same as a winning narrative outcome.

This was an honest mistake by the Tyler campaign, a consequence of some flawed official guidance and a decision to rely on that guidance. The court found that the Democratic registrar provided petition sheets four days before state law allowed, and that the state-supplied forms lacked a legally required statement from circulators on the number of signatures gathered — a defect that invalidated all of Tyler's petitions. The ruling also notes that there was no evidence the Tyler campaign exercised due diligence to confirm the official guidance.

Connecticut election law doesn't allow for honest mistakes; decisions are based on a black & white reading of the law. Santanella was right to bring the challenge. It's likely that any other candidate — regardless of party — would have done the same. It's how our system operates. It demands that all candidates follow the same rules.

But this could be a harder race for Santanella. The Republicans may seek to exploit this and try to win over disaffected Democrats. It might be a motivating force. That's one outcome. This legal dispute may also be quickly forgotten, and have no influence.

The Republicans may see opportunity, especially if the Democrats fail to patch up whatever internal issues helped hatch this primary challenge.

The November contest is just beginning. The Republicans can't run on Democratic turmoil alone. They still need issues to run with that will materially and convincingly help residents. Santanella has a base of support and issues he believes resonate. But he will need his supporters to turn out as he works to mend fences.

Editor's note, July 30, 2026: The Connecticut Supreme Court on Thursday ruled from the bench to set aside the Superior Court decision and reinstate Thomas Tyler to the ballot, with a new Democratic primary date for the 58th House District expected to be set by the trial court. The court's written opinion, explaining its reasoning, is pending. This editorial reflected the Superior Court ruling as it stood on July 15. EnfieldThings will publish a full analysis when the opinion is released.
Location: Enfield, CT 06082, USA

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