DiCenso Seeks to Oust Dugatto for Derby Mayor’s Seat

(photo by Catherine Avalone)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

DERBY >> Aldermanic President Carmen DiCenso, a former Derby High School football coach and longtime business owner, threw his hat in the ring Tuesday to run for mayor.

DiCenso, 66, made his announcement to seek the city’s top office before a crowd of about 75 friends, family members and supporters gathered at the Italian Pavilion restaurant.

“I love this town, and the reason I’m running for mayor is simple. ... I know I can do better,” said DiCenso, a Democrat.

The 1969 DHS graduate, who coached football from Pop Warner to varsity for 31 years, said he’s ready to move the city he grew up in forward.
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Derby Mayor Dugatto Thanks Voters

To the Residents of the City of Derby,

I want to thank each and every one of you who worked so hard delivering our message to the voters.  It was a message proudly framed in accomplishments, accomplishments that were reflective of promises kept.

I will continue my work to fulfill our collective vision for a prosperous, thriving Derby that is responsive to the needs of its citizens today, while remaining ever attentive to the needs of tomorrow.

Sincerely yours,

Anita Dugatto

(Dugatto was re-elected Nov. 3 to a second term as Mayor of the City of Derby)

Derby is ‘making its mark’ as S&P upgrades credit rating to AA

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

DERBY >> City officials are crediting conservative budgeting, strong fiscal management and other factors to a national ratings agency boosting Derby’s bond rating to a near perfect level.

According to City Treasurer Keith McLiverty, the New York City-based Standard & Poor’s recently upgraded Derby’s bond rating from AA- to AA, which is just two notches away from the highest possible AAA rating. A strong credit rating, officials said, makes it easier for borrowers to gain access to capital, at very low interest rates.

McLiverty said the bond rating upgrade will save the city “hundreds of thousands” of dollars over the next couple of years in interests costs alone, namely on the major sewer upgrade project underway.

The city’s financial advisor, Barry Bernarbe, of Phoenix Advisors, lauded the city for its excellent financial standing.
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