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The committee considering a master plan for downtown buildings might soon get the input of a local construction expert. Arnold Karp, owner of renovation and construction management firm Karp Associates, is First Selectman Jeb Walker's choice to fill one of two vacancies on the Town Center Planning Group. The Board of Selectmen will consider adding Karp to the committee at an Oct. 12 meeting.
Karp, 51, said he could not turn down Walker's invite to serve on the panel, which is working on a plan for downtown infrastructure. "We have a wonderful opportunity to examine things from a macro standpoint," Karp said. "It's not just hearing one point, but it's about hearing all points."
The construction manager is familiar with serving the town. He was also a member of the New Canaan High School Building Committee alongside current Planning Group Chairwoman Christine Wagner. He also serves on the Mill River Collaborative in Stamford.
Having lived in town for 15 years, Karp believes he can be an asset as the group moves closer to developing a strategy for the town and several buildings, including Town Hall, which sits across the street from his office.
Karp is one of two expected committee replacements. Michael Hobbs and Jim Beall resigned earlier this month. Hobbs left in part due to personal attacks from master plan opponents. Karp said he's interested in discussion, but wants it to be productive.
"I don't understand why it would be personal," he said. "The people [on the committee] are working to help New Canaan."
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