8/14/2026 A Message from First Selectman Lent

Greetings from Town Hall!

The main theme of my administration is environmental and land use issues. Let's save Easton!

WILDLIFE IN EASTON! (Please send image contributions to treynolds@eastonct.gov.)

CONSERVATION, LAND USE, WATERSHED, and ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION ISSUES

EASTON BECOMES A CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Congratulations to the Town of Easton on officially becoming a Certified Local Government (CLG) through the National Park Service and Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office. This designation recognizes Easton’s commitment to preserving and protecting our community’s rich historic character and resources. Special thanks and congratulations to Elizabeth Boyce for her tremendous hard work, dedication, and perseverance in guiding Easton through the certification process. Her efforts helped bring this important recognition to our town and open the door to new opportunities for historic preservation, education, and access to preservation resources and grants. The National Park Service officially certified Easton as a CLG on August 14, 2026. This is a wonderful milestone for our community and a reflection of Easton’s longstanding commitment to preserving the history and character that make our town so special. For more information, visit the Historical Society of Easton website.

EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT ADDS NEW EV CHARGING STATIONS: The Easton Police Department has added two new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support the Town’s growing fleet of electric police vehicles. The charging stations were obtained through a grant, providing convenient and reliable charging for the Department’s EV police cars while helping ensure they are ready for service when needed. This grant-funded investment supports Easton’s continued efforts to modernize its municipal fleet, improve efficiency, and incorporate sustainable technology into Town operations. The town does pay for the electricity used (we pay the electric bill).

SPOTTED LANTERNFLY: KNOW IT, CATCH IT, SQUISH IT! Spotted lanternflies are an invasive pest that can damage trees, plants, and crops. Adults are about 1 inch long, with gray wings covered in black spots. When their wings open, they reveal bright red and black coloring. Why are they a problem? Lanternflies feed on the sap of many plants and trees, weakening them and causing stress. They also produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold and make outdoor areas messy. What to do:

• Squish them! Crushing individual lanternflies is an effective way to remove them.
• Scrape off egg masses, which look like grayish, mud-like patches. Place them in a bag with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer before disposing of them.
• Check vehicles, outdoor furniture, firewood, and other items before moving them to help prevent spreading this invasive pest.

Every lanternfly removed helps slow its spread!

PUBLIC SAFETY:

Please remember to "Slow Down in Our Town" and help keep our roads safe by avoiding speeding.

STAY INFORMED. STAY SAFE. SIGN UP FOR EVERBRIDGE! The Town of Easton is launching Everbridge, our new primary system for emergency notifications. Sign up to receive important alerts about severe weather, police activity, utility outages, road closures, and other emergencies by phone, text, and email. Every family member with a cell phone or email should register. Register for Everbridge and get more information HERE. A few quick answers: Is this new? Yes. Everbridge will be the Town’s primary emergency notification system. Is it legitimate? Yes. The recent Town email security issue has been resolved. Having trouble registering? Help will be available at the Senior Center. You can also call 203-689-2995 for assistance. Please take a few minutes to register today. It could make a difference when you need critical information most.

CELL SERVICE UPDATE: We hear you and are very aware of your concerns about cell service. The Town of Easton continues to work on the cell service issue nearly daily to develop a plan to ensure Easton residents have access to adequate cell service. This week we have had numerous conversations with the State and Verizon. We have been working with Clayton Northgraves, Director of Statewide Emergency Telecommunications, to connect us with the proper people to work on a resolution to this issue. Mr. Northgraves will be connecting our Town with the majority of the wireless carriers in our area. We are aware of similar coverage issues that have occurred around the State. Unfortunately, progress is slow despite our best efforts, and improving service can take time, but we will be persistent. We recognize carriers face their own challenges to improving service, as they must obtain approval from the CT Siting Council before moving forward with most service upgrades. We have learned that the Easton 2 CT project has been officially created with Verizon - this is some good news. This project will create a low-profile micro-grid in the area of the Town Hall/Police Station that should dramatically increase cell service in that area. We continue to request that all citizens help us with this issue. The more complaints to the cell carriers, the better. We encourage residents who have Verizon service and believe its quality has deteriorated to submit a complaint ticket. This is an important step because they can’t review your service without this. Click here, if you have Verizon, to help us resolve this problem. Resident complaints should be submitted via the MyVerizon app ("Check Network Status") or by calling 1-800-922-0204 to open an NRB ticket — this grants Verizon permission to analyze individual call records. We will continue to work on this.

Schuyler Sherwood

Emergency Management Director

OTHER NEWS

AQUARION WATER MAIN PROJECT BEGINNING AUGUST 10: Aquarion Water Authority will begin a water main installation project on High Ridge Road and Ferndale Road on August 10, with construction expected to continue through October 2026. This is the first phase of a two-phase project designed to reduce water distribution system pressures along Ferndale Drive, Sturbridge Road, and a portion of High Ridge Road. Residents should expect:

• Minor traffic delays and possible detours
• Construction activity Monday–Friday, approximately 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Final paving will be scheduled with the Town of Easton after construction is completed.

Aquarion encourages residents to sign up for its free Everbridge notifications at www.aquarionwater.com/alerts for updates about scheduled and unscheduled work. Questions about the project? Contact Aquarion Project Manager Luke Scatenato at 203-362-3040. For water service issues, call 1-800-732-9678.

EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES NEW CAPTAIN ARTHUR BELILE: The Town of Easton congratulates Arthur Belile on his promotion to Captain of the Easton Police Department. Captain Belile was officially sworn in during a ceremony held Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. at the Easton Public Library. His promotion recognizes his years of dedicated service, professionalism, leadership, and commitment to the Easton community. We congratulate Captain Belile and wish him continued success in his new role.

MISINFORMATION ALERT - “FEDERAL ASSESSMENT CAP” VIDEO: A YouTube video circulating online claims that Congress has created federal property tax assessment caps, senior tax freezes, new homestead exemptions, and other benefits for homeowners based on age. These claims are false. Property assessments, reassessments, exemptions, tax freezes, and appeals are generally governed by state and local law—not federal law. There is no federal law requiring every state to establish a senior property tax freeze or requiring local assessors to automatically provide these benefits. The video also references several supposed federal forms that do not exist, including a “Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request” and a “Senior Residence Assessment Cap Request.” Please do not rely on this video for information about your property taxes. Connecticut residents should contact their local Assessor’s Office to learn about property tax relief programs for which they may qualify. Veterans may also be eligible for additional programs. When it comes to your property taxes, check with your local officials and trusted government sources before taking action based on information shared online.

FROM FILE CABINETS TO FLOWER PLANTERS! A HUGE thank you to Gilbertie’s Herb Gardens for generously donating beautiful herbs to fill our new planters! These unique planters started life as old, well-loved file cabinets and were given a fabulous second life thanks to Chief Foti and a little paint. What a great example of turning something old into something beautiful! We’re so grateful to Gilbertie’s for helping us bring a little more green to our community! Have you spotted our new planters yet? They are right behind our new picnic table on the patio near the Police Station!

CTDOT SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT ON STATEWIDE FREIGHT PLAN: The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is seeking public feedback on its draft Connecticut Statewide Freight Plan, which examines how goods move throughout the state by truck, rail, ports, air, and pipeline. The plan will help guide future transportation investments, improve safety and reliability, and prepare for growing freight demand. In 2024, approximately 168 million tons of freight valued at $392 billion moved through Connecticut, and freight value is projected to grow 92% by 2050. Public comments are welcome through September 4, 2026. View the draft plan at portal.ct.gov/dot/programs/freight. Comments may be submitted by email to DOT.LongRangePlan@ct.gov or by calling (860) 594-2560.

GILBERTIES FARM ON ADAMS ROAD SUFFERS SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE DURING THE THUNDERSTORM THIS PAST FRIDAY NIGHT. Numerous greenhouses were damaged by the high winds. Initial estimates appear to indicate that hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage occurred. Gilberties has been a family-owned business for over 100 years. They started their greenhouse operation in Easton over 40 years ago. About 35 people work on the Easton farm.

State Senator Tony Hwang, First Selectman Dan Lent, and the Emergency Management Director Schuyler Sherwood are reaching out to the State to see if we can provide any assistance in their recovery.

GOOD REMINDERS:

STATE OFFERS $300 GROCERY BENEFIT FOR CERTAIN FORMER SNAP RECIPIENTS: Connecticut is providing a one-time $300 grocery benefit to eligible residents who recently lost SNAP benefits due to new federal ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) eligibility requirements. Eligible individuals should contact their local Community Action Agency to verify eligibility and request the benefit. The prepaid grocery card can be used to purchase SNAP-eligible food items and does not affect eligibility for other assistance programs. For more information, please contact Dan Simonelli at 203-268-1137.

BLOOD DONORS URGENTLY NEEDED! The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis due to critically low blood supplies, with an especially urgent need for Type O blood. Every donation can help ensure hospitals have the lifesaving blood patients need. You can make a difference by donating at the Siren Aide of Easton and Easton Public Library Blood Drive, held in memory of Ellen Longbine Waugh, a beloved Playtots Preschool teacher and dedicated Easton volunteer whose kindness and service touched so many lives. The blood drive will take place on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Easton Public Library, 691 Morehouse Road. To schedule your appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If registering online, use the sponsor keyword "EPL". Your donation could help save a life while honoring Ellen's legacy of compassion and service.

GROW-A-ROW *DONATIONS ACCEPTED EVERY TUESDAY* Did you grow some extra produce? Please consider donating to Grow-A-Row! This program brings fresh produce to seniors in town. This will run from 9 AM-12 PM at Shaggy Coos. Donations will be every Tuesday at these hours until the first week of September.

REGIONAL DISPATCH CENTER UPDATE: Easton's transition to the Fairfield County Regional Dispatch Center has been running smoothly since May 5, with all emergency and non-emergency calls continuing to be answered and dispatched promptly. Key reminders:

• • 911 – Emergency calls
  • 203-268-4111 – Non-emergency police, fire, and EMS dispatch
  • 203-268-3515 – Easton Police Department business line (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.)

Emergency call boxes are available outside the Police and Fire Departments, and additional security cameras and after-hours access systems are now in place at Town Hall, the Police Department, and other municipal facilities. Questions? Contact Emergency Management Director Schuyler Sherwood at ssherwood@eastonct.gov.

EASTON NOTIFICATIONS HAVE TEXT! Now you can get emails AND/OR TEXT notifications! Get text reminders about upcoming board meetings or minutes! Log in to update your preferences and feel free to share our NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP LINK to help us keep Easton connected.

LAKE COMPOUNCE TICKETS: Easton Park & Rec is offering discounted “Any Day Tickets” to Lake Compounce. Any Day tickets are $34.00, save $21.00! Tickets can be picked up at our office located at 652 Morehouse Road, Easton. Please call to reserve your tickets first at 203-268-7200.

2026 REVALUATION INSPECTIONS UNDERWAY: Property inspections for Easton's 2026 Real Estate Revaluation are underway throughout town. Representatives from Municipal Valuation Services (Munival) may be inspecting properties, taking exterior photos, measuring buildings, and conducting scheduled interior inspections. All inspectors carry Town and Munival identification, wear company-logo attire, and use vehicles displaying Munival magnets registered with the Easton Police Department. To verify an inspector or learn more, call Munival at 203-292-5500 or visit the Revaluation page on the Town website. Residents can also review the Town's Property Taxes Explained page to learn how property taxes are determined.

BOOK COLLECTION: The Friends of the Easton Library are collecting book donations at the library during normal hours through Monday, September 21st. We gratefully accept books, CDs, DVDs, records, games, and puzzles as long as they are in good condition for inclusion in our annual book sale. The book sale will be held on the first weekend in October.

SAFE KIDS CONNECTICUT: Reminder, car seats are currently available for families in need through the program. Please contact the Police Department at 203-268-3515 from 8 am to 4 pm. Monday through Friday.

LIFE-SAVING RESOURCES AVAILABLE AT THE EASTON POLICE DEPARTMENT: For the safety and well-being of our community, a Narcan (naloxone) box is now available on the wall in the lobby of the Easton Police Department for Easton residents who may need access to this opioid overdose reversal medication. In addition, an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is located in the lobby for use during a cardiac emergency. These resources are part of the Town’s ongoing commitment to supporting public health and emergency preparedness.

EASTON ANIMAL SHELTER EVENT! Please help raise money for the Easton Animal Shelter. Stanley needs surgery so that he can be put up for adoption and find a forever home! Bring your kids to the Easton Library on Tuesday, August 18^th between 10 am and 3 pm to “adopt” a stuffed dog. Your $10 donation includes a certificate and name tag. All money goes directly to support the animals at Easton Animal Shelter. (Cash or check only). Thank you for supporting the animals in our community!

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!

Dan Lent
First Selectman

AMERICA 250! 250 YEARS OF FREEDOM Highlighting Easton's history, civic pride, and volunteer spirit!

AMERICA 250 CONNECTICUT PASSPORT: As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Connecticut is inviting residents and visitors to experience the people, places, and stories that helped shape the nation. The America 250 | CT Passport encourages you to take a journey through history, culture, and innovation, connecting 40 destinations across the state through shared themes that continue to define Connecticut today. Visit CT250.org for more information on the America 250 | CT Passport and how you can travel around Connecticut to learn about its revolutionary heritage! Passports are available in the Library lobby.

EASTON HILL CLIMB REVIVAL RETURNS – IN OCTOBER - STAY TUNED!

HELPFUL NUMBERS

EVENTS AROUND TOWN

CHESS (GRADES 3 & UP), Monday, August 17, 1:00-2:00 PM at the Library. This chess program will teach participants the basics and fundamentals of chess, such as how the chess pieces move, the rules of the game, as well as how to strategize and improve gameplay. All playing levels are welcome. Space is Limited. Registration is required.

THREE NEW ART EXHIBITS ON DISPLAY AT THE EASTON PUBLIC LIBRARY. Easton Arts Council presents Gallery Exhibitions at the Easton Public Library.

• • ‘Postcards with an Edge’ by Steve Gerber, August 4-31 in the Small Gallery.
  • ‘Sculpting Stories’ by Jerry Reece in the Gold Display Case, July 1 - August 31. Artist reception on Sunday, August 16th, 1-3 pm with the Artist Talk at 2:00 pm in the Community Room.
  • ‘Out of the Barn’ – Ten Artists, Ten Directions, One Connection, August 16 – September 24. A collective exhibition featuring the work of ten accomplished artists. Artist reception on Saturday, August 22nd, 4-6pm.

MAH-JONGG OPEN PLAY, Tuesday, August 25, 6:00-8:00 pm at the Library. Do you play Mah-Jongg? Join us for an open play session. Please be aware that playing for money is not allowed. Please bring your Mah-Jongg set if you have one. Note: this is not a class. Registration is recommended, as we need to know how many tables to set up.

SCRABBLE CLUB on Sunday, August 30, 3:00-7:00 pm at the Library. Join us for a lively game of Scrabble! Bring your game board if you have one. For questions, please contact the program facilitator, Carl Twickler, at 203-268-7126 or carl.twickler@gmail.com. Registration is recommended.

SENIOR CENTER VACCINE CLINIC: The Senior Center will hold vaccine clinics on Wednesday, September 23rd, Thursday, October 15th, and Wednesday, November 4th. Clinic Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 pm. Vaccines available: Flu, COVID, Shingles, Pneumonia, RSV. To schedule an appointment, please call the Senior Center at (203) 268-1145.

TWENTY-SECOND ANNUAL EASTON LIONS GOLF CLASSIC on Monday, September 28th, (Noon tee-off) at the Blackhawk Country Club, 385 Oronoque Ln, Stratford, CT 06614. Golf (scramble, cart, driving range, lunch buffet, dinner with one-hour open bar, cash prizes, 50/50, online raffle). For additional information, please contact Bob Davidson at 203-512-9420 or rollsman@optonline.net.

HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY! October 3rd, 9 am - 2 pm at 307 Indian Ledge Park Drive next to the BMX Facility. Click HERE for more Information.

SAVE THE DATE: Truck or Treat - Friday, October 30th (Please note - not on Halloween!)