Council approves Richter Park appointment after debate over residency and outreach

The Danbury City Council voted July 7 to confirm Robert (Bob) Bria as the Richter Park Authority’s arts representative after a contentious discussion over process and residency.

Councilwoman Gardner moved to approve the ad hoc report and the appointment; the motion passed after a voice vote with two recorded nays. Council debate centered on whether the appointment followed adequate public outreach and whether the appointee needed to be a Danbury resident.

During public comment, Pete Ciesinski urged council members to appoint Bria, saying he ‘‘has done wonders for musicals at Richter’’ and would ‘‘be a great addition to the board of the Richter Park Authority.’’ Several residents and council members, including Councilwoman Faye, said they were concerned that the ad hoc process had not publicly recruited candidates and that the appointee does not live in Danbury.

Responding to questions, a member of the mayor’s staff explained that the Richter Park Authority’s ordinance requires an arts representative rather than a resident and described the routine practice of relying on the arts board to suggest candidates. Chief Sosinski (speaking as an authority member) told the council that Bria regularly attends authority meetings, ‘‘understands the commitment that’s necessary’’ and has been active with Richter musicals.

Council members in favor pointed to historical precedent for bringing talent from the broader Danbury area. Councilman Rotello recounted past appointments of nonresidents who contributed to arts projects and said that outside expertise can be valuable.

The council recorded two opposed voices but otherwise approved the appointment and thanked Bria for his service to local arts and schools. The authority appointment was taken up after the board’s ad hoc reported its recommendation and will be reflected in the authority’s membership roll.

The council closed the item and proceeded with the remaining agenda.