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, & ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION ISSUES
EASTON DAY! GET READY TO GO WILD, EASTON! We are hosting an “Easton Day” at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport on Saturday, May 16th, with complimentary admission for 150 residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Please bring 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, which also offers youth summer camps.
DEEP RELEASES NEW CONNECTICUT WILDLIFE ACTION PLAN. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced the release of the newly revised Connecticut Wildlife Action Plan, approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Updated every 10 years, the plan serves as a statewide blueprint for protecting wildlife, conserving habitats, and guiding local conservation efforts. The plan helps municipalities support conservation planning, pursue grant opportunities, and incorporate wildlife protection into town initiatives. It also outlines strategies to address challenges such as climate change, habitat connectivity, fish passage, and wildlife crossings. Since the first plan was introduced in 2005, Connecticut has seen major conservation successes, including the recovery of the osprey population. New resources available through DEEP include:
For more information, contact DEEP Wildlife Division at: deep.wildlife@ct.gov.
FREE BIRD GUIDE: Pick up a waterproof Backyard Birds of the Northeast guide, now available at Town Hall on a first-come, first-served basis. Courtesy of Bill Karesh, these handy, easy-to-use guides are perfect for bird lovers of all ages—whether you’re identifying visitors at your backyard feeder or exploring local trails. Stop by and grab one while supplies last – they are going quick!
STATE AID FOR CONNECTICUT DAIRY FARMS: Governor Ned Lamont announced plans to release $22.5 million in state aid to help Connecticut dairy farmers facing rising production costs and financial challenges. The funding, from the state’s Federal Cuts Response Fund, is intended to support small, family-owned farms impacted by higher fuel, fertilizer, and equipment costs, as well as federal pricing and trade policies. Governor Lamont said protecting Connecticut’s dairy farms is critical to preserving local jobs and food supply.
HELP US PROTECT EASTON’S NATURAL BEAUTY: Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a perennial weed that spreads aggressively through extensive rhizomes (like roots, an underground stem that puts out lateral shoots) and by seed. It forms mono-specific stands anywhere soil is disturbed. Thrives in sun but tolerates shade. Control: Mow or cut the ground every 2-3 weeks for 2 years. Pulling may result in more plants since it regenerates from its extensive rhizomes. Cut to prevent seed heads from forming.
EMS CEREMONIAL OPENING and ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION ISSUES: The Ribbon Cutting and Ceremonial Opening of the newly renovated EMS Building will take place on Sunday, May 17th. This marks a major investment in public safety, helping our EMS team have the modern, well-equipped facility they requested. Come meet the dedicated EMS personnel, tour the upgraded building, and learn more about the vital services they provide (11:00 am to 3:00 pm). Thank you to Ed Nagy and the entire DPW team for their site work in bringing this renovation close to completion.
Unfortunately, after receiving new soil test results last week that were too high (for ETPH and PAH) to comply with the EMS Building Committee plan to use a “permit by rule,” at my recommendation, the EMS Building Committee urgently met on Tuesday with the licensed environmental professional and the EMS team to discuss alternative options under Connecticut’s DEEP Release-Based Cleanup Regulations (RBCRs) https://portal.ct.gov/deep/remediation--site-clean-up/release-based-cleanup-program/release-based-cleanup-program. The Building Committee’s updated plan is to use an environmental attorney (the legal fees will be taken from the EMS building budget) as recommended by the Board of Selectman to review options to address the ongoing environmental contamination issues on the 444 Sport Hill Road lot. The 444 Sport Hill Road lot was purchased by the Town in 2024 (at the start of this project). The meeting recording will be posted. To avoid confusion, I note that there is also a separate set of three previously known environmental contamination release issues located near the foundation of the EMS building from old tanks and a sump pump located at 448 Sport Hill Road (the EMS building itself) which the licensed environmental professional’s plan is to monitor for two years according to DEEP regulations with monitoring wells. Overall as an environmentalist, of course, I personally want the Town to do what is best to clean up the sites and I am concerned about it. The Town is the owner of the EMS building, and the Town owns the 444 and 448 lots, and we lease the building to EMS to use (unlike the Fire House).
PUBLIC SAFETY: Please remember to “Slow Down in Our Town” and help keep our roads safe by avoiding speeding. We also have one remaining “Take It Slow” yard sign available at the First Selectman’s Office, for anyone interested.
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK is a time to honor and remember the law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, while also recognizing the dedication and service of all police personnel who work every day to keep our communities safe. Observed annually around May 15, National Police Week includes ceremonies and memorial events across the country to commemorate fallen officers and express gratitude for the commitment of law enforcement professionals. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges faced by law enforcement and to show support for officers and their families. I would like to extend sincere thanks to the Easton Police Department for their professionalism, dedication, and selfless service to our community. Special thanks to Chief Foti Koskinas, Detective Sergeant Kent Lyman, and all of the officers and administrative staff for all that you do for Easton each and every day. Thank you for your service!
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: A message from Dan Simonelli, Social Services Coordinator – Hi everyone! I wanted to take a second to remind you of one of the services I offer to Easton residents. For those who are on a fixed or low income, I can provide some financial assistance towards rent, oil, or electric bills. Please reach out if you have any questions or want to confirm you are eligible – (203) 268-1137.
REMINDER - PUBLIC HEARINGS AND MEETINGS
OTHER NEWS:
Please encourage friends and neighbors to sign up for the First Selectman's NEWSLETTER.
THE EASTON OBSERVER launched its first issue last Friday as the town's new print newspaper, founded by Eastonites Jess Deutsch and Alan Pittman. The first 3 issues will be monthly (May, June, and July) and then move to twice a month. If you didn't get a copy, you can email publisher@eastonobserver.org. The Observer is asking those who enjoyed the paper to please subscribe and support local journalism. You can subscribe on their website: www.eastonobserver.org or by emailing the publisher. The next issue will be out June 12th, and this will be the last free issue to the whole town; July and onward is for subscribers only. On behalf of the whole Observer team, thank you for your readership.
INFRASTRUCTURE TASK FORCE We are looking for two resident volunteers with building or construction experience to join the newly created Infrastructure Task Force. If interested, please email your letter of interest and resume to treynolds@eastonct.gov, and she will set up a short interview with me.
CCM END OF LEGISLATIVE SESSION UPDATE: Attached is a summary of key bills tracked by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) during the recent legislative session. The End of Session Report identifies which bills passed and which failed. A more detailed analysis of Public Acts impacting municipalities will be released once all final legislative actions are complete. CCM End of Session Report
PLEASE HELP SUPPORT the Unified program at SSES, part of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools initiative, where students come together to form meaningful friendships and feel truly seen and included. Through sports and shared experiences, children learn empathy, kindness, and the value of lifting each other up. Funds raised will directly support Unified Sports and inclusive programming at SSES through SEPTA, allowing for expanded equipment, clubs, events, and opportunities that bring students together. DONATE TODAY!
TOWN OF EASTON SEES POSITIVE RESULTS WITH GOVWELL PERMITTING SOFTWARE. The Town of Easton is pleased to share that GovWell, the Town’s permitting and municipal software provider, has announced $25 million in new funding to continue improving services for local governments and residents. Easton implemented GovWell to help streamline permitting, licensing, planning, zoning, and code enforcement services for residents and contractors. Since launching the platform, the Town has received positive feedback from users who appreciate the improved accessibility, efficiency, and communication throughout the permitting process. This new investment will allow GovWell to continue enhancing its platform, expanding customer support, and developing new tools — including AI-powered features — aimed at making permitting and municipal services even easier for residents to navigate. GovWell currently partners with more than 150 agencies across 35 states, helping local governments provide faster and more responsive service to their communities.
UNION CEMETERY VOLUNTEER CLEANUP BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY: Volunteers are needed to help weed whack around headstones at Union Cemetery in preparation for Memorial Day. This is a wonderful way to honor and respect those laid to rest there while helping keep the cemetery looking its best for the holiday. Any amount of time you can give is appreciated. Please bring your own weed whacker and equipment if possible. For questions or more information, please text Bob Laskay at 203-362-9864 or call Bruce Laskay at 203-264-9408.
HOLIDAY TRAVEL UPDATE: The Connecticut Department of Transportation is announcing that there will be no maintenance or construction activities on limited-access highways for the upcoming Memorial Day Holiday, from 6:00 a.m. Friday, May 22, to 6:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Only work of an emergency nature will be considered.
EV CHARGING TIME: Reminder – there is a strict three-hour time limit. Please move your car from the charger at or before the 3-hour limit is up!
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. In addition to Snoopy, Parker, and Applejack, we now have this cute fellow: Oreo! He is 7 years young, neutered, housebroken, and available for adoption! If interested, please reach out to the Easton Animal Control at 203-268-9172.
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Dan Lent
First Selectman
AMERICA 250! 250 YEARS OF FREEDOM Highlighting Easton’s history, civic pride, and volunteer spirit!
FLAGS! Keep an eye out for new American flags from the Town Hall to the Firehouse in honor of Memorial Day and America 250. Thank you to Selectman Nick D’Addario for generously donating the flags, and to Joe Palmieri and his crew for donating their time to install them on the telephone poles. This display is a meaningful tribute to our residents and veterans and a great expression of our community’s patriotic spirit. If you have a U.S. flag at home, please display it in honor of Easton and America.
FROM THE DECLARATION TO THE CONSTITUTION: OUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES - MAY 15 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
Join State Senator and Constitutional Scholar Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox for her talk on the Constitution and the founding agreements that sustain our democracy on Friday, May 15, at 7:00 PM at the Easton Public Library Community Room. Please RSVP contact@eastonctdems.org.
“PEKIN(G) TO PARIS – A MOTORING ODYSSEY IN A 1910 WHITE STEAM CAR” - MAY 16 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
Step back in time and across continents! Join us for a fascinating presentation by Mitch and Wendy Gross as they share the incredible story of their journey in a 1910 White Steam Car during the legendary 2019 Peking to Paris Challenge. Covering an astonishing 8,500 miles, this 109-year-old automobile proved its endurance by completing one of the world’s most demanding vintage car rallies! See the historic vehicle up close and hear firsthand about the adventure, challenges, and triumphs along the way. This is a free lecture, and there will be refreshments available at the BBQ at the Congregational Church Hall. The Presentation is on Saturday, May 16th, at 3:00 pm. Pre-Event Celebration BBQ from 1:00–3:00 PM in the lower lot. Enjoy great food and classic cars—a perfect combination! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience living history, remarkable engineering, and an unforgettable journey brought to life. Please note there is no rain date for the BBQ. The talk will be held regardless of the weather, as it will take place indoors. Seniors and those needing assistance may park in the lower lot for the BBQ and later in the circle for the talk. All others are asked to park across the street in the Congregational Church parking lot. Co-sponsored with the Historical Society of Easton as part of our town’s America 250 celebrations.
EASTON HILL CLIMB REVIVAL RETURNS – MAY 23 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
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. Please note that Morehouse Road will be closed during the event. Parking will be available at Town Hall and the Senior Center, with visitors walking to the library grounds. 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! CAR REGISTRATION FORM
15TH ANNUAL EASTON MEMORIAL DAY MILE RACE - MAY 25 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE - MAY 25 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
Get ready, Easton! This year’s Memorial Day Parade will take place on Monday, May 25th, and promises to be a meaningful and spirited community tradition. Participants should gather at the Easton Fire Department at 9:00 am, with the parade stepping off promptly at 9:30 am. New this year: As you line Center Road, be sure to look for the beautiful display of American flags proudly lining the parade route—a powerful and patriotic tribute that makes this year’s event even more special. Following the parade, a ceremony will be held at Easton Town Hall to honor those who gave their lives defending our freedoms. Afterward, short remembrances will take place at Easton’s Union and Aspetuck cemeteries. If you’re new to town, this is one of Easton’s signature events—featuring local sports teams, community groups, and neighbors coming together in remembrance and pride. For more information, including marching in the parade, please contact Don Rodgerson, Post Commander, at 203-209-1402 or TOPKICK375@aol.com. We hope to see you there as we come together to honor and remember.
THREE TOWNS TOUR - MAY 30 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
From its earliest days, Fairfield was a sprawling town. Stretching from the Saugatuck River in the west to what is now Bridgeport’s Park Avenue in the east, and northward to the hills of Redding, Fairfield’s original bounds encompassed a vast and dynamic region. With a flourishing population, new parishes and religious beliefs took root, and distant communities began to forge their own paths. Thus emerged the neighboring towns of Redding, Westport, Weston, and Easton—shaped from Fairfield lands. Join us for a special bus tour (beginning at the Fairfield Museum) to discover the unique stories found in Fairfield, Weston, and Easton, and explore the shared history among all three towns. At the end of the bus tour, join us for a special opening reception for the special exhibition “Happy Anniversary! Centenary Celebrations & Beyond” at the Congregational Church Hall in Easton. The Staples Academy will host a special exhibit featuring artifacts and documents from the colonial and early national period. While the exhibit is open to the public by request, it will be fully open that day for tour participants and additional visitors to enjoy. Co-presented by Weston History & Culture Center and Historical Society of Easton. Registration is required. $80/person. BUY TICKETS If you have any questions, please call (347) 678-7230.
THE REDDING CELEBRATES AMERICA 250 PROJECT - MAY 30 - AS PART OF AMERICA 250
This event was organized by a group of volunteers and will culminate with a concert featuring the entire Greater Bridgeport Symphony on Saturday, May 30th at 7:00 pm 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
EVENTS AROUND TOWN
Aspetuck Land Trust Native Plant Sale Open! ORDER ONLINE. Pick Up Friday, May 15th - Sunday Morning, May 17th at Haskins Preserve in Westport, CT.
The Bruce Museum is pleased to present the Spring Fine Crafts Festival – this weekend, May 16 - 17, 2026. We invite you to view beautiful works by the talented Fine Craft Artists at this prestigious Annual Museum Crafts show. On display will be a collection of juried, original handmade creations. CRAFTS in a variety of media, including: Sculpture, Glass, Ceramics, Jewelry, Fiber, Paper, Wood, Metal, and Mixed Media, will be available for purchase. Tour the Craft Booths of over 50 invited artists on the museum grounds and enjoy the NEW BRUCE MUSEUM! 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich, CT 06820.
VOLUNTEERS! On Saturday, May 16th, at 9:30 am, each year, the American Legion honors the fallen by placing flags on veterans' graves at local cemeteries. All volunteers welcome!
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a growing option for Connecticut homeowners looking to create flexible living space, generate rental income, or support multigenerational living. This session will cover what ADUs are, current CT regulations, zoning, costs, design options, timelines, and common challenges. Presented by Jason Richetelli, partner at ADU Builders of Connecticut, a design-build firm specializing in ADUs at the Easton Library on Saturday, May 16, at 1:00 pm. Registration is recommended.
Easton Arts Council is hosting ‘Art in the Country’ fine art juried show, May 2 – June 27. Join us for our reception on Saturday, May 16, 6 – 9 pm, and meet all of the artists.
The Easton Arts Council presents Peggy Dembicer's TRANSFORMATIONS art exhibition, May 16 – June 30, at the Easton Public Library, Small Gallery. Meet the artist at our opening reception on Sunday, May 17, 2-4 pm.
Join us for a lively and entertaining game of Scrabble at the Library on Sunday, May 17, from 3:00-7:00 pm. Bring a game board if you have one. For questions, contact the program facilitator, Carl Twickler: 203-268-7126, carl.twickler@gmail.com. Registration is recommended.
Aspetuck Health District (AHD) staff will be attending the Westport Chamber of Commerce 10th Annual Dog Festival on Sunday, May 17th from 10 am- 4 pm, at Winslow Park (Compo Road North & Post Road), to promote public health programs & services. LEARN MORE
Ukraine Aid International will host a one-night benefit screening of the documentary Second Wind on Monday, May 18, at the Fairfield Theatre Company. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the film at 7 p.m., followed by a Q&A with writer/producer Gennadiy Gazin. The film follows five wounded Ukrainian veterans as they attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, highlighting resilience, recovery, and determination. The event supports ongoing humanitarian efforts and reflects the strong sister-city ties between Fairfield, Easton, and communities in Ukraine. Visit the Fairfield Theatre Company website for tickets and details.
The Annual Citizens’ for Easton meeting is on Wednesday, May 20th, at 7 pm at the Easton Public Library. It is open to everyone. There will be a special presentation by Peter Reid of Wildlife in Crisis. CFE is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Easton’s scenic, rural, and agrarian character. Wildlife in Crisis cares for more than 5,000 injured and orphaned wild animals each year in CT.
The Library is hosting “AI Literacy” for 4th & 5th Grade with Next Generation Learners on Thursday, May 21st, at 4:30 pm. This interactive workshop introduces students to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and responsible AI use, including how AI works, how to write effective prompts, how to verify AI-generated information, and how to use these tools creatively while maintaining independent thinking. The session is hands-on, practical, and focused on building real-world digital skills in a safe and structured environment. Registration is required.
The annual spring concert will take place on Sunday, May 24th, at 2 PM at Jesse Lee United Methodist Church, 25 Flat Rock Rd, Easton, CT. It is entitled “Sing for Your Supper, the Music of Rodgers and Hart,” featuring WAMC’s gourmet vocalists and delectable piano and organ accompanists. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted for WAMC’s Scholarship Fund. Reception to follow. Please join WAMC by filling out our APPLICATION FORM. It can be mailed or hand-delivered. – Joanne Kant, President. This event is free and open to the public. Donations for the WAMC Scholarship Fund are gratefully accepted. 203-767-0064
Please join the American Legion at Silverman's Farm on Tuesday, May 26th, at 10:00 am for a Poppy donation. These donations help our sponsorship of teenagers attending “Boys State” and “Girls State” to help develop tomorrow's leaders.
Easton Library will be hosting the Wellness Fair on Sunday, May 31st, 1:00-5:00 p.m. Join in to learn about mind & body wellness. Participants will include: Easton EMS, Aspetuck Health District, Easton Senior Center, Easton's Here to Help, Sasco River Center, Khemi’s Vegan Cuisine (cooking demonstration), Easton Garden Club, Therapy Dog Thor, Tai Chi Instructor Deby Goldenberg, Physical Therapist Whitney Staropoli, Dementia Specialist Julianne M. Ramia, and Certified HeartMath Trainer Beatriz Blanco.
Join us on Monday, June 1st at 5:30 p.m. at Easton Town Hall as we raise the Pride flag for the seventh year running! Celebrate with inspiring speakers, live music, and ice cream — and pick up a free Easton Pride lawn sign to display throughout town. As always, ALL ARE WELCOME!
The Library is hosting “Women's Life Navigation Series - Your Personal Brand is Your Power” on Tuesday, June 2nd, at 7:00 pm. The Women’s Business League of Fairfield County (WBL) is a national community where powerhouse women connect, grow, and prosper. They are committed to building a strong, supportive network for women in business through connection, opportunity, and community. As part of that mission, the Fairfield County chapter will present an educational speaker series at the Easton Public Library, designed to provide practical, meaningful value to individuals and families in the community. This series brings together professional women from WBL to lead engaging, non-commercial discussions on topics many people struggle to navigate on their own. Registration is recommended.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Weston, CT Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.