4/24/2026 A Message from First Selectman Lent

Greetings from Town Hall!

As always thematically, the main theme of my administration is environmental and land use issues. Let’s save Easton!

WILDLIFE IN EASTON! (Please send me pictures of your wildlife in town to treynolds@eastonct.gov.)

CONSERVATION, LAND USE, WATERSHED, & ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION ISSUES

AVOIDING COSTLY LAND USE LITIGATIONS. I held three meetings this week with three different groups of residents and our newly hired land use staff to try to manage ongoing zoning concerns and violations and work toward resolving disputes before they escalate into costly litigation. Each of these disputes could have cost the Town about $50,000 in legal fees -- so we saved roughly $150,000 this week, in my opinion, by avoiding lawsuits and trying to be responsive, friendly, and respectful to residents while managing land use disputes professionally. Thank you very much to our staff, Land Use Director Keisha Fink, Zoning Enforcement Officer Jeff Borosky, and our attorney, Steve Stafstrom, from Pullman & Comley.

LAND CONSERVATION DAY AT THE CAPITOL: I attended the Land Conservation Day at the State Capitol on Earth Day, April 22, joining state leaders, legislators, and conservation partners from across Connecticut. The event highlighted local and statewide efforts to protect Easton’s farms and open spaces and to strengthen land conservation programs in Easton. I met with officials and advocates throughout the day to support continued investment in preserving farmland and conservation initiatives and to share the town’s commitment to preserving natural resources and wildlife species for future generations.

GET READY TO GO WILD, EASTON! We are hosting an “Easton Day” at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport on Saturday, May 16^th, with complimentary admission for 150 residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Please bring some type of identification to show that you are an Easton resident at the ticket booth. And, on Sunday, June 7th, we have arranged for complimentary admission for 50 Easton residents (first-come, first served) at Earthplace in Westport.

KEEP EASTON GREEN AND CLEAN!! Thank you to the wonderful Easton Garden Club for their fantastic work cleaning up our town’s roadsides. Along with the usual litter, volunteers even uncovered larger debris—including a muffler and an engine—hidden in the brush. Their efforts make a real difference in keeping Easton beautiful. Please consider cleaning up your street while you are out walking, for example. While these actions may seem small, they add up to a lasting impact on our environment and quality of life. Earth Day is a reminder that protecting our community doesn’t happen in just one day—it’s the result of ongoing, collective effort. Thank you to everyone who gave their time and energy to help keep our corner of Connecticut clean, healthy, and thriving.

PUBLIC SAFETY: Please remember to “slow down in town” and not speed. We have signs available at Town Hall for free also. Connecticut recently observed National Work Zone Awareness Week (April 20–24), a statewide reminder of the importance of driving safely through active construction areas. Led by Governor Ned Lamont, CT DOT, and federal partners, the campaign reinforced the message that “Safe Actions, Safe Lives” depend on every driver slowing down, staying alert, and avoiding distractions in work zones. Work zones remain high-risk areas for both workers and motorists, with crashes and fatalities continuing to occur in recent years. Drivers are urged to remember these safety practices year-round to help protect roadway crews, first responders, and fellow travelers.

AQUARION WATER UPDATE: Connecticut Attorney General William Tong and Consumer Counsel Claire Coleman are asking state regulators to reconsider their approval of the Aquarion Water Company sale, citing a major miscalculation that could mean nearly $500 million in additional rate increases for customers. They argue the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority relied on flawed financial modeling that understated the long-term costs of the deal. The officials say the error undermines the determination that the sale is in the public interest and are urging regulators to revisit and reject the approval.

ARBOR DAY, celebrated this year on April 24, is a perfect reminder of just how fortunate we are to live in a community surrounded by such natural beauty. Easton’s abundant trees are more than just a scenic backdrop—they provide shade, improve air quality, support wildlife, and help define the character of our town. The holiday itself has roots connected to Connecticut through Julius Sterling Morton, who was born in Adams, Massachusetts, and raised in Monroe, Connecticut. He later moved to Nebraska, where in 1872 he proposed a day dedicated to tree planting—what became the first Arbor Day. His vision led to the planting of more than a million trees and inspired a tradition that continues nationwide today. Whether you’re planting a new tree, caring for those already on your property, or simply enjoying a walk along our wooded roads, Arbor Day is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and protect the landscape that makes Easton so special.

REMINDER - PUBLIC HEARINGS AND MEETINGS

1. The Annual Town Meeting will be held on Monday, April 27th, at 7:00 pm at SSES. The budget will be voted on May 5 by machine vote. Thank you to our long-time Board of Finance Chair Art Laske and our Board of Finance members for leading this process, including managing to reduce the initial budget proposals substantially in an equitable fashion. Please come to the annual meeting to learn more.
2. The next Conservation meeting regarding the proposed Saddle Ridge 26 home cluster housing development scheduled for Tuesday, April 28th, at 7:00 pm at SSES might be postponed (continued).
3. There will be a Valley Road Bridge public information session on Thursday, April 30th, at 7:00 pm in the Library Community Room. Click HERE for the rehabilitation study report link.
4. If you wish to receive updates regarding these meetings, please subscribe HERE!
5. As always, thank you for your continued engagement at these hearings and support as we work together for the future of Easton.

AQUARION WATER AWARDS- Each year, the Aquarion Environmental Champion Awards recognize businesses, nonprofits, individuals, and students who make outstanding volunteer contributions to protecting and improving our environment. Nominations are open for those who have made a meaningful impact—whether by protecting water resources, improving air quality, safeguarding land, or enhancing wildlife habitat. Eligible projects should:

1. Significantly improve environmental quality through conservation, restoration, stewardship, or education
2. Demonstrate strong achievement and impact
3. Be sustainable or reproducible
4. Have been active for at least one year (student projects may be within the past 90 days)

Awards: Business, Nonprofit, and Adult categories: $5,000 grant to an environmental nonprofit of the winner’s choice. Student category (Grades 9–12): $1,000 award. Nominate an environmental champion making a difference in our community! Nomination Deadline: May 8!

OTHER NEWS:
Please encourage friends and neighbors to sign up for the First Selectman's newsletter HERE.

EV CHARGING TIME LIMIT ENFORCEMENT Please be reminded that the electric vehicle charging station located in the library parking lot is subject to a strict three-hour time limit. This policy is in place to ensure fair and equitable access for all users, including municipal vehicles such as police cruisers that also rely on this charging station. Vehicles remaining connected beyond the three-hour limit may be subject to enforcement measures. Your cooperation in adhering to this time restriction is expected and appreciated to ensure the charger remains available to those who need it.

EASTON PUBLIC LIBRARY In recognition of National Library Week (April 19–25) and National Library Workers Day on April 21, we extend our sincere appreciation to the dedicated staff of the Easton Public Library. Their commitment to serving our community goes far beyond the circulation desk—whether they are helping residents find information, supporting lifelong learning, creating engaging programs, or simply offering a welcoming space for all. Their professionalism, kindness, and quiet behind-the-scenes efforts make the library an invaluable resource for Easton.

OUR WONDERFUL SSES PRINCIPAL, KIMBERLY FOX SANTORA, IS RETIRING: After more than two decades of dedicated leadership, we extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Kimberly Fox Santora as she retires from her role as Principal of Samuel Staples Elementary School. Since 2004, Mrs. Fox Santora has led with care, consistency, and a deep commitment to her students, staff, and school community. Her steady guidance and genuine passion for education have made a lasting impact on countless lives. We are grateful for her years of service and wish her all the best in the years ahead!

NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK: Help us celebrate the educators and staff who support our students every day! National Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4–8, 2026, and the Easton PTO is planning a week of special treats and surprises for teachers and staff. Please consider DONATING to Staff and Teacher Appreciation Week (S.T.A.W.) to help make it all possible. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed! To donate or learn more, visit eastonctpto.com or email eastonctpto@gmail.com.

VOLUNTEERS: If teens/adults are looking to volunteer, the Easton Garden Club is always looking for help during its busy seasons! Please contact them by clicking HERE.

EASTON ELECTRONICS & TOOLS RECYCLING EVENT Saturday, May 2, from 10 am to 2 pm, at Samuel Staples Elementary School (rear of school, drive-through, contactless unloading). Accepted Items for Electronics Recycling: Computers, Monitors, Printers, Televisions, VCRs, DVD Players, Copiers, Scanners, Video Game Machines, iPods, PDAs, Modems, Keyboards, Computer, Mouses, Stereo Equipment, Phones, Cameras, Tablets, Microwaves, Small Appliances. Not Accepted: Refrigerators, Dehumidifiers, Smoke Detectors, Hazardous Materials, Batteries, Light Bulbs. BRING TOOLS YOU NO LONGER NEED AS WELL! Accepting hand tools and small power tools to benefit Nourish Bridgeport. Sponsored by Easton Energy & Environment Task Force and Take2 Recycle. Questions about electronics: www.Take2recycle.com or 800-209-9322.

SEPTIC TIPS FROM OUR VOLUNTEER CHRIS BARCELLO TO HELP PROTECT OUR COMMUNITY’S DRINKING WATER

1. Stay ahead with regular maintenance: Routine septic tank cleaning is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your home’s essential infrastructure. When properly maintained, your system safely treats and returns water to the ground; when neglected, failure can be costly and disruptive. Scheduling regular cleanings—ideally before winter, and roughly every one or two years—helps prevent expensive replacement while protecting your well water and the health of the entire community.
2. Ensure access to your tank: Buried lids can become inaccessible when the ground freezes. Installing risers to grade allows for easy access and serves as a helpful reminder of your system’s location.
3. Check your pumping system if you have one: Make sure it is functioning properly, especially during colder months. Frozen lines can shut down your system and disrupt household use. Regular inspections and monitoring performance can help prevent costly issues.
4. Protect your system year-round: Avoid driving over your septic system, planting trees nearby, or directing gutters and runoff toward the leaching area—all of which can lead to premature failure. Watch out for leaking faucets or toilets that run slightly and need new flappers.

CARS FOR HOMES PROGRAM: Donate your vehicle and make a difference! Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County’s Cars for Homes program accepts cars, trucks, RVs, boats, and motorcycles—running or not—and provides free towing. Vehicles are either reused or responsibly recycled, with up to 86% of materials recovered to reduce waste and protect natural resources. Best of all, your donation helps fund affordable housing in your community and may qualify for a tax deduction. Click to learn more!

ELECTRICITY RATES: Starting May 1, Connecticut residents will see a noticeable drop in their electric bills, with rates decreasing by about 14%—roughly $30/month for Eversource customers and $34/month for United Illuminating customers. This reduction is largely due to the state’s public benefits charge shifting from a fee to a credit through at least September. The savings are driven by state energy policies, including long-term nuclear energy contracts and recent legislation that lowered costs tied to public benefits charges. These efforts have already saved ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars and are expected to continue delivering relief while maintaining a stable and diversified energy supply.

SENIOR TAX RELIEF PROGRAM: Click HERE for information. Deadline May 15, 2026.

REQUIRED 2026 REVALUATION UNDERWAY: Homeowners are asked to review, complete, and return the mailers at their earliest convenience. If anyone has received a damaged Data Verification Letter, they should contact Municipal Valuation Services directly at (203) 292-5500 to request a replacement.

SHELTER UPDATE: These dogs deserve more than a kennel—they deserve a person to love and a home where they can truly thrive. Each one is ready to give loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love to the right family. Please help spread the word so they have the chance to find the caring homes they deserve and live their very best lives.

APPLEJACK is the kind of dog that earns your trust and never lets you go. This seasoned 11-year-old Heeler is fully trained – stops and sits at every curb, walks beautifully on a leash, and is loyal to her person to the core. She is a love puddle happy with a good walk, a cozy bed, and a toy or two. Don’t let her age fool you – she’s got plenty of life left. As a true Heeler, she has a strong prey drive (squirrel beware!), so she’d thrive as an only pet in a home with older kids and an adult who can handle 85 pounds with opinions. Applejack deserves a soft landing – could that be your home?

PARKER is pure swagger in a 2-year-old body. The Jack Russell-Basset Hound mix has the confidence of a dog three times his size and joie de vivre to match - he will absolutely make you laugh! Give him 15 minutes to suss you out, and he’ll be your best friend for life. Parker loves walks, is loyal to his humans, and has curiosity to spare. He’d benefit from some basic training to channel that big personality, but honestly, his sass is half the charm! Cat-free home preferred. Ready to live his best life with someone who appreciates extra flair.

Meet SNOOPY – the dog with the underbite, the zoom energy, and the biggest heart in the room. This 4-year-old mix spent his early years as a support dog, giving comfort until his human could no longer keep him. He lost his job through no fault of his own, and now he is looking for someone to love. Snoopy is goofy, joyful, and loyal to the bone. He’ll zoom circles around you, savor every walk, and remind you daily that life is good. Give this sweet boy the forever home he’s always deserved.

If interested, please reach out to the Easton Animal Control at 203-268-9172.

Please contact me for any reason if I can help.

Thanks!
Dan Lent
First Selectman

EVENTS AROUND TOWN

Stop into the Library to pick up your Passport to CT Libraries, April 1-30, and get it stamped. Then, try to visit as many CT libraries as possible. Visit at least five libraries and be entered into a raffle to win a Visa gift card!

SENIOR CENTER SILENT AUCTION - April 14 through May 5, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm! Browse a unique and ever-changing collection of vintage finds, antiques, and decorative treasures. Whether you’re a collector, a bargain hunter, or just looking for a special piece, you can place a bid starting at just $7.00. Every bid supports a great cause, with proceeds helping to fund classes, activities, and new programs at the Senior Center. Stop by, take a look, and join in the fun—you might just find your next favorite treasure while giving back to the community.

Come join us for coffee and donuts on DEA National RX TAKE BACK DAY, Saturday, April 25^th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Please turn in unneeded medication for safe disposal at the Library parking lot. Taking all medication – NO NEEDLES. Don’t worry if you can’t make it; there is a 24/7 drop box in the Police Lobby.

Join us at the Library on Sunday, April 26^th, at 4:00 pm for a lively and entertaining game of Scrabble. Bring a game board if you have one. For questions, contact the program facilitator Carl Twickler at 203-268-7126, carl.twickler@gmail.com. Registration is recommended.

A Taste of Ukraine – Ukrainian Cultural Exchange at the Masonic Lodge, 200 Center Road, on Sunday, April 26^th, from 4-6:00 pm. Limited to 50 seats. All money goes directly to the cause. A presentation will be made by Mark Yurkiw about the crisis in Ukraine. A suggested donation of $30/person may be made at the event. Please make a reservation.

In celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary, the Easton Cemetery Committee will host Rhode Island Historian Laureate Keith Stokes for a talk titled “Creative Survival: African Heritage Enslavement & Freedom in Early New England.” The event will take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 7:00 pm at the Helen Keller Middle School Cafetorium, 360 Sport Hill Road, Easton. A nationally recognized historian and public speaker, Mr. Stokes has appeared on programs including PBS, C-SPAN, and TED Talk. A $15 suggested donation is appreciated. The venue is wheelchair accessible.

Annual Easton Kids Fishing Derby at Aspetuck Park, 369 Black Rock Road, on Sunday, May 3^rd from 8:00 am to 10:30 am! Bring your family, chairs, snacks, and your fishing poles. We will provide the live worms. The pond is stocked with 125 trout, brooks, and rainbows, with 10 tagged for the derby! Ages 15 or under – rain or shine.

Easton Arts Council: Film Series Thursday, May 7^th at 7 pm The Merry Widow

Jesse Lee United Methodist Church, 25 Flat Rock Road, is hosting a Shredding Event on Saturday, May 9^th, from 8:30 – 12:30 pm, rain or shine, unlimited boxes, no weight limit. They will unload your car. Donations of $15 per box are appreciated.

The Easton Police Benevolent Association will be hosting a Scam and Internet Safety luncheon at the Senior Center on Saturday, May 9th, at 11:30 am. Lunch will be catered, and after the presentation, the EPD members and friends will help seniors in need of small projects around the house, such as cleaning out the garage or tidying up the yard. Please sign up at the senior center or contact Sgt. Lyman at 203-268-4111. If you are a senior who would like assistance after the presentation, please let Val at the senior center know.

Staples Free School Fund Scholarship 2026-27 – Applications for college scholarships from the Staples Free School Fund for the 2026-2027 school year are available online at www.staplesfreeschool.com and are due Friday, May 8^th, 2026. Applicants must be Easton residents (minimum five-year residency) who plan to attend or are attending an accredited college, community college, or university within the United States. One-half of the award is a scholarship, the other half is a loan due without interest within seven years of the date of receipt. Recipient selection is based on financial need. Scholarships are granted for a year at a time. Students may reapply on an annual basis. For questions, please email Carolann Vassallo, Foundation Manager at staplesschilars@yahoo.com.

On Saturday, May 16th, Staples Academy Foundation will be hosting a BBQ in the lower parking lot from 1-3 pm, followed by a talk with Mitch & Wendy Gross about their historic trip from Beijing to Paris in an antique car. The talk will begin at 3 pm in the hall.

GET READY TO GO WILD, EASTON! We are hosting an “Easton Day” at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport on Saturday, May 16^th, with complimentary admission for 150 residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Please bring some type of identification to show that you are an Easton resident at the ticket booth. And, on Sunday, June 7th, we have arranged for complimentary admission for 50 Easton residents (first-come, first serve) at Earthplace in Westport.

EASTON HILL CLIMB REVIVAL RETURNS – MAY 23
The Staples Academy is proud to once again sponsor the second annual Easton Hill Climb Revival on Saturday, May 23, 2026. This exciting community event, hosted by the Fairfield County HCCA/AACA Car Club in partnership with the Town of Easton and several regional car clubs, recreates the historic Sport Hill races that helped shape early auto racing. The event begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Easton Public Library (691 Morehouse Road) and features a demonstration hill climb and vintage car show. Demonstration runs are scheduled for approximately 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. Vehicles from 1932 and earlier will participate in the hill climb, while vintage cars from 1933–1965 will be on display with priority show parking. Admission is free and open to the public. Parking is first-come, first-served beginning at 9:00 a.m., with overflow parking available behind Town Hall. Accessible parking will also be available, and the library will be open for public use. This event celebrates Easton’s unique place in automotive history, honoring the early hill climbs that predate some of the nation’s most famous races. Don’t miss this fun and family-friendly day!

15^TH ANNUAL EASTON MEMORIAL DAY MILE RACE will be held on Monday, May 25th, 2026!

1. Walk or run in the Memorial Day Mile before the Parade! Go HERE to enter $25.00
2. Be a Sponsor! $200 to support the Senior Center and add your LOGO on the Race Shirt!
3. Be a Friend of the Senior Center Memorial Milers - $25-$50 to offset race costs (timers, awards, snacks, etc.)
4. Volunteer for the race committee or for 1 hour on race day, May 25^th, 8:00 – 9:00 am.
5. RACE INFO: Sign-in begins at 7:30 am, race starts at 8:30 am. Easton Fire House, 1 Center Road, Easton, CT. Net proceeds to benefit Easton Senior Center. Race starts in front of the Easton Fire House @ 8:30 am. Finishes at the same spot to accommodate Parade goers. **RAIN or SHINE ** Post Race Water and Food. Award Ceremony & Prizes at the end of the race. Commemorative shirt guaranteed to all pre-registered participants. Entry Fee: $25.00 - Race day: $30.00 Registration ends May 24, 2026, at 8:00 pm EDT. Sign Up

THE REDDING CELEBRATES AMERICA 250 PROJECT was organized by a group of volunteers and will culminate with a Saturday, May 30th, concert featuring the entire Greater Bridgeport Symphony at Joel Barlow High School in the school's theater. This is a two-town event despite its name. About half of the money raised thus far has come from Easton residents, and the fact that there will be Easton students participating in the concert is significant to the Town. Celebrating America 250 – Historical Society of Easton, Connecticut

ENJOY THE WESTPORT LEVITT PAVILION CONCERTS THIS SUMMER!

THE DISCO BISCUITS NIGHT ONE: FRIDAY, JUNE 12 | Doors: 5:30 PM | Show: 6:30 PM, NIGHT TWO: SATURDAY, JUNE 13 | Doors: 5:30 PM | Show: 6:30 PM. Member Pre-Sale begins Wednesday, March 25, at 10 AM ET. Get your 2026 Membership now: Enjoy pre-sale access and exclusive member discounts to this and upcoming shows! Already a member? Log in here. Public on Sale: Friday, March 27 at 10 AM ET. 2-DAY PASSES - FRIDAY, JUNE 12 + SATURDAY, JUNE 13 LAWN Section GA: Ticket holders in this section will be able to enjoy the bar located on the terrace. Advance GA 2-DAY PASS: $100 / LP Member Advance GA 2-DAY PASS $100 (FF waived on Member passes) DAY OF SHOW: $110.