UPDATED Acting First Selectman on Devastation & Restoration

Monday evening, the Representative Town Meeting heard Acting First Selectman David Bayne address the state of the town in the wake Saturday's storm—the lasting devastation, and the steps towards recovery.

First Selectman Dave Campbell handed over the reins Sunday morning. He has since left town, said Bayne, and is due to return "later on this week."

"There's nothing more important to the town, the Board of Selectmen, than the health and safety of our residents," said Bayne. "We still have trees falling. Do not think that it is safe out there. Drive with caution. If you see a down wire, assume it's live."

On Power Restoration:

Where Connecticut Light & Power anticipate a significant number of residences to see power restored by Wednesday evening, full restoration may not come before the end of the week, said Bayne.

CL&P has established a command post on the I95, dedicated to Darien, said Bayne. The next few days should see 15 to 20 power line and tree crews working in town.

On Schools:

The same holds true for the schools. Where Tokeneke and Holmes School both have power, the majority of the town's public schools have been without electricity since the weekend.

Darien High School saw power restored Tuesday morning.

"Middlesex, Ox Ridge and Royle School may not have power for another day or so," said Bayne.

Notice with regards to school openings for Wednesday should come some time this afternoon, said Bayne.

On Roads:

Town crews are working methodically at clearing a prioritized list of roads. Mansfield Ave., one of the town's "main arteries" and hardest hit roads, will not be cleared before Wednesday. The State Department of Transportation is helping to clear the large tree near Sedgewick Ave.

On the Town's Response:

Bayne said he will continue to monitor the situation closely.

"The Governor has declared a State of Emergency for this area. I may do the same if we find it necessary," said Bayne.

As of Tuesday morning, Byane said the Office of Emergency Management does not consider it necessary to declare a state of emergency for the town of Darien. The town will, however, try to claim state and federal aid to help recover the costs incurred by restoration.

"We'll get that paperwork in early next week," said Bayne.

Residents with questions or concerns with regards to the town's response efforts are aksed to contact Bayne directly on his cell at 203-984-9679.

"I'm out of power too, so the home line won't do you much good," said Bayne.