Politics & Government

Llodra: Media Coverage of SHS Demolition 'Wearing On Our Spirit'

In a statement posted on her One Newtown blog today, First Selectman Pat Llodra said she understands the media coverage surrounding the Sandy Hook School demolition and rebuilding project, but that constant media coverage "is wearing on our spirit and serves as a constant reminder of our great hurt."

"I understand the interest of the media to cover the Sandy Hook School demolition," she said. "Readers and viewers throughout the state (and the nation) remain very engaged in the story of our tragedy and continue to pursue all bits and pieces of information about the event itself, along with any and all following activity ... Given all that, however, I remain committed to protecting as much as possible the emotional health of our families, our Sandy Hook teachers and staff, our school kids and their parents, and all the members of our community."

National outlets from The New York Times to Fox News covered Sandy Hook when demolition began last week. Workers on the project — including construction company Consigli and Sons and asbestos removal firm Bestech — are required to sign non-disclosure agreements. Selectmen said the move would help to curtail "looky-loos" and prevent images and details from the site from turning up on social media, where they could be picked up by national press outlets.

No unauthorized parties, including media, are allowed at the construction site.

"[O]n the one hand, I respect the media's pursuit of information that is relevant, interesting, and timely," said Llodra. "And I respect that readers and viewers have a 'right to know' some things.  On the other hand I see that the persistent coverage is having a deleterious effect on our mental health and poses impediments in our journey of recovery. For me, the balance tips in favor of the people of Newtown."


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