About The West Haven Post

Major news headlines for West Haven, Connecticut, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, include significant local government updates and legal developments. 

Local Government & Education

• Proposed $4M School Budget Increase: Superintendent Neil Cavallaro presented a proposed 2026–2027 school budget of $97.9 million on January 21, 2026. This 4.7% increase ($4 million) primarily addresses staff salaries and benefits, though the district hopes to offset the request through grants and special education funding.
• City Charter Revision Plans: Mayor Dorinda Borer announced plans to initiate a city charter revision process, the first since 2009. She is currently researching the structure of a revision commission to revisit areas from a failed 2020 attempt.
• Regional Legislative Agenda: Regional leaders and mayors met at the University of New Haven on Jan. 15 (re-reported Jan. 21) to discuss legislative priorities and regional initiatives for the upcoming state session. 

Public Safety & Legal

• Guilty Verdict in Fentanyl & Firearm Case: A West Haven man, Seth Tyson, 44, was found guilty on January 21, 2026, of criminal possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance following a search warrant that uncovered fentanyl and a handgun.
• Winter Storm Preparedness: City officials and emergency management issued warnings regarding a major upcoming winter storm expected to bring significant snow accumulations to the region starting Sunday morning.
• Firefighter Cancer Awareness: Mayor Borer and state officials held a news conference on Jan. 15 (featured in headlines on Jan. 21) to promote Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting new health initiatives for first responders. 

Community News

• Historical Centennials: Local "Westies" gathered to celebrate the Edward L. Bennett Rink's centennial year, a major milestone for the community's hockey culture.
• New Haven Events for 2026: Nearby New Haven announced over 60 planned events for 2026 to celebrate America's 250th birthday, many of which will involve regional coordination.