March 26, 2026
.com
Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXIX Iss. 13
Duffy Pavilion Goes to Referendum March 31 By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer
Old Saybrook residents will cast their votes on a proposal to acquire the former Dock and Dine property in exchange for the Vicki Duffy Pavilion on Tuesday, March 31. Old Saybrook officials have answered common questions about the proposed swap.
Polls will be open from noon to 8 p.m. March 31 in the Old Saybrook High School gym, where voters will weigh a proposed deal in which the town would acquire the Dock and Dine site in exchange for transferring the title to the Vicki Duffy Pavilion and leasing the land under and around it to local restaurateur Jon Kodama, who would convert the pavilion into a restaurant.
All eligible voters in Old Saybrook, including nonresidents who own at least $1,000 in taxable property in town, may vote in the referendum. Absentee ballots are available. No minimum turnout is required for the vote to be valid, and the Board of Selectmen cannot override the results, officials said. See Duffy Pavilion page 13
Kickin’ Carne Crew Philip Cone, in a horse costume, poses with co-worker Maria Freire of Cuckoo’s Nest Restaurant as they serve “Cuckoo’s Kickin’ Carne” chili during the 29th annual Old Saybrook Chili Fest along Main Street on March 21. The event features 25 competing chefs and businesses at tasting stations, with the public voting by ballot. Proceeds benefit local organizations, including the Valley Shore YMCA, St. Vincent de Paul and the Old Saybrook Education Foundation. Photo by Laura Matesky/ Harbor News
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