Norwalk's Common Council has unanimously approved a new affirmative action plan for the city. Council President Fred Bondi says this new plan was a long time coming. Norwalk has had an original affirmative action plan in place since 1979.

The vote Wednesday night paves the way for greater efforts in hiring minorities for city jobs in all departments. City officials commenting on the vote included Mayor Moccia who says the city wants to treat everyone with respect. Council member Carvin Hilliard former Norwalk NAACP president, feels the city has "a ways to go" and wants city employees to "look like the city of Norwalk itself."

The plan comes at a tough time due to Mayor Moccia's recent budget cuts due to the economy. Currently a hiring freeze is in place excepting police and fire.