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3/20/2026 A Message from First Selectman Lent

Posted on: March 20, 2026 - 1:52pm
Barred Owl courtesy of Bill Karesh

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 [email protected].)

Cardinal
Cardinal courtesy of Allan Wong

CONSERVATION. LAND USE, WATERSHED, AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION ISSUES

CONSERVATION CONFERENCE: I will be attending the all-day 2026 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference this Saturday. This is the main Land Conservation Conference of the year in Connecticut.

Bad News on AQUARION SALE: We are watching the potential Aquarion sale, and it unfortunately looks like it will proceed. Anne Hughes has been working on legislation that could help with the RWA management structure if the sale goes through. Thanks very much to Anne for helping. We are also working with MetroCog on this lawsuit, and they have been very helpful.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMITTEE: Our newly reformed Affordable Housing Committee recently held its first meeting, featuring a presentation from Matt Fulda of MetroCOG. Matt shares a strong understanding of Easton’s unique watershed obligations to surrounding communities, which will help us in our housing growth planning as required by HB 8002. The Committee’s recent research shows we have a large number of garage apartments and ADUs, which we hope to receive credit for, for example.   

SADDLE RIDGE: The Saddle Ridge project is a significant proposal involving over 100 acres wherein a cluster housing plan for 26 cluster homes is proposed — marking the first time -- three-acre minimum zoning could be broken in town. This matter has been subject to pending litigation for many years and remains incredibly important for watershed and wetlands issues and land use in town. To ensure it is reviewed thoughtfully and fairly, the Town is working closely with our Town Engineer, legal counsel, and additional experts to support both the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Conservation/Wetlands Commission. We’re especially grateful to our dedicated P&Z members and Chair Ray Ganim.

PLUM TREE LANE: The Plum Tree townhouse proposal, located next to the Mill River, is another important project currently under review. Public hearings recently closed, led by Wetlands Chair Dori Wollen with support from wetlands counsel Keith Ainsworth. The Town of Trumbull denied the related application last week. Our Wetlands Commission continues its careful, fair, and thorough review process. We’re grateful to our Wetlands members and Chair Dori Wollen for their dedication.

OTHER LITIGATION: We’ve been making progress in working collaboratively to resolve issues and avoid the need for litigation whenever possible. Attorney Steve Stafstrom is actively working on two zoning enforcement matters. The Harding case remains ongoing with an injunction in place, and Steve has also visited the site related to the Twitch Grass case, which is progressing well.

THE GOAL IS TO REDUCE LAND USE LITIGATIONS AND REDUCE LAND USE AND ALL TOWN LEGAL FEES WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

I am happy to report that by using our strategy of simply talking first, many new litigations have been avoided (a few were avoided this week, in fact) by trying to have friendly negotiations and discussions.  Our legal fees are thereby decreased. We are also trying to avoid losing lawsuits with better planning.   

Learn about Housing Bill 8002 here: PUBLIC ACT 25-1 (Also known as HB 8002) Tyche–Halloran & Sage has made it easy to access the materials referenced during the recent webinar, including the PowerPoint presentation and a full recording of the session, all available on their website: https://www.tycheplans.com/resources. Please note that the webinar recording is password-protected. You can access it using the password PublicAct25-1 (case sensitive).

SAFETY

SAFETY NOTICE: CYBERSECURITY ALERT: PROTECT YOUR HOME NETWORK

The FBI is warning residents about the growing use of “residential proxy” networks—when cybercriminals secretly use home internet connections and devices to carry out illegal activity while hiding their identity. Many people don’t realize that their smart TVs, phones, routers, or other connected devices can be compromised and used without their knowledge. These risks often come from downloading free apps, VPNs, or pirated content, or from unsecured or outdated devices. To protect yourself, only use trusted apps and services, keep your devices updated, avoid suspicious links and downloads, and regularly monitor your home network for unusual activity. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your devices—and your identity—stay secure. Should you suspect you have had an issue, please contact the following:

  • Town of Easton Police – 203-268-4111
  • FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) – to report cybercrime or ransomware: www.ic3.gov
  • Connecticut State Police / DESPP – for local/state-level assistance or to report incidents
  • Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) – for resources and guidance: www.cisa.gov

 

REMINDER - PUBLIC HEARINGS AND MEETINGS

  1. BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING: Monday, March 23rd, at 7:00 PM at SSES. PLEASE ATTEND! Last year, only 4 people from the public attended. FB LIVE
  2. The next PA 490 Working Group Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM VIRTUAL - MICROSOFT TEAMS Public Participation via Registration. Thanks to Nick D’Addario for spearheading this effort for Easton.
  3. The next Special Conservation Commission meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 24th, at 7:30 pm in the Library Community Room to deliberate on the Plum Tree Lane high-density 830-G affordable housing development to be located next to the Mill River. No public comment will be taken as the public hearings are now closed.
  4. The next Conservation Public Hearing regarding the Saddle Ridge cluster housing development, which proposes 26 cluster house developments, will be held on March 30th, at 7:00 pm at SSES. Public comment will be heard.
  5. The next ZBA public meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 7th, at 5:30 pm at the Town Hall Conference Room A to discuss the variance application at 12 Kent Road.
  6. The next P&Z meeting regarding Plum Tree Lane and an 830-G text amendment zone change will be held on Tuesday, April 7th, at 7:00 at SSES.
  7. If you wish to receive updates regarding these meetings, please subscribe HERE!
  8. As always, thank you for your continued engagement at these hearings and support as we work together for the future of Easton.

GOINGS ON AT TOWN HALL

BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING: Monday, March 23, at 7:00 PM at SSES. The budget process is well underway, with many meetings focused on balancing fiscal responsibility while continuing to support our schools. Our new Board of Finance members, Dave Wheatley and Josh Bailey, have been very actively contributing, alongside Chair Art Laske, Ira Kaplan, and the full Board of Finance and selectmen, whose efforts are greatly appreciated. We encourage residents to stay engaged and be part of the conversation. Attendance at the last hearing was low, and community input is an important part of this process—we hope to see you there! FB Live 

ASPETUCK PARK CLOSED from March 23-April 3rd
Great news! The NEW Aspetuck Park Playground installation will begin on Monday, March 23rd, and should take about two weeks to complete, depending on the weather. To ensure everyone’s safety during construction, the park will be closed from Monday, March 23rd, through Friday, April 3rd. When it reopens, families can look forward to an exciting new space for kids to play, explore, and enjoy for years to come. We appreciate everyone’s patience while we work to make Aspetuck Park even better for our community!

SCHUYLER SHERWOOD: Special thanks to Schuyler Sherwood, our Fire Marshal and Director of Emergency Management, who plays an essential role in keeping our community safe every day. From overseeing fire prevention efforts and inspections to coordinating emergency preparedness and response, Schuyler’s work often happens behind the scenes—but its impact is felt throughout the entire town. Whether planning for severe weather events, supporting first responders, or helping residents and businesses stay compliant and informed, his dedication, professionalism, and steady leadership are invaluable. We are grateful for the time, care, and expertise he brings to protecting our community.

KEISHA FINK: We’re pleased to welcome Keisha Fink as our new Land Use Director! An AICP-certified municipal planner, Keisha brings experience from Weston, Westport, New Canaan, and most recently, Florida. She has already begun supporting the town by joining the Saddle Ridge cluster housing public hearings via Zoom. We’re excited to have her on board. Attorneys from Halloran & Sage were also in attendance for full support.

SENIOR TAX RELIEF PROGRAM: Applications for the Easton Senior Tax Relief Program have been mailed to current participants. Information regarding tax relief benefits and exemptions is available on the Assessor’s webpage under “Tax Relief Programs” or at the following link: https://www.eastonct.gov/assessor/files/tax-relief-programs. Residents who meet the eligibility requirements and wish to apply may contact the Assessor’s Office at (203) 268-6291. Applications are also available for download and printing on the webpage. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2026.

VALLEY ROAD BRIDGE: I attended a CT DOT meeting where, in coordination with our Department of Public Works, the final bridge design was selected. The bridge may need to close again in the near future for more repairs. We will share updates and timing as soon as they are available. Click HERE for the rehabilitation study report link.

CEDAS HOUR: I recently listened to and spoke at the CEDAS Hour webinar: "A Legislative Look", where CEDAS President, Kevin Bielmeier and CCM's Director of Policy and Advocacy, Brian O'Connor discussed 2026 General Assembly Session, Gov. Ned Lamont's anticipated budget, key legislative proposals, and what businesses, municipalities, and economic developers - should be watching closely in the weeks ahead. I discussed problematic deed restrictions on affordable housing and developers' anti-environmental requests to weaken the septic tank regulations. Webinar Recording HERE. Listen to my deed restriction portion is HERE.

EMS RENOVATION UPDATE: We have engaged Lee Hoffman of Pullman & Comley to expedite the project and to open the new EMS as soon as possible. We’re excited as the team looks ahead to opening their new facility soon!

EMS COMMISSION UPDATE: The EMS Commission’s newly appointed business executive and non-partisan member, Bill Andrews, has been making a positive impact, particularly with budgeting and accounting. Gloria Bindelglass has also been actively attending meetings. Thank you to everyone for working together.

TWO 15-MINUTE PARKING SPOTS ADDED: Two new 15-minute parking spots were installed at Town Hall to make quick visits easier for our residents.

FREE TOWN HALL UPGRADES: The Town has been generously offered free office furniture from a Westport business that is closing, resulting in cost savings for the Town.

REQUIRED 2026 REVALUATION UNDERWAY: Homeowners should have received Revaluation Data Verification Letters from Municipal Valuation Services on behalf of the Assessor’s Office. The Assessor’s Office would like to assure residents that these letters are legitimate and not a scam. 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.

PICNIC TABLE: Thank you to Selectman Nick D’Addario for generously offering to purchase a new metal picnic table for Town Hall staff and visiting residents. It is greatly appreciated, and we all look forward to enjoying it! Thank you as well to everyone who kindly offered their own tables. Your generosity is truly appreciated.

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: If you are interested in volunteering for the Easton Parent Support Group focusing on college admissions, I would love to hear from you. Please contact Tina Reynolds at [email protected] in the First Selectman's Office. In addition, the Library is hosting the following helpful events:

  • Creating a Compelling College Application this Spring (Gr. 11 & Families) on Tuesday, April 21st, 7:30 pm via Zoom. Registration is required.

SHELTER UPDATE: There is a new pup, “Snoopy,” available for adoption!  What a little cutie! Parker and Applejack are still available, too! If interested, please reach out to the Easton Animal Control at 203-268-9172.
Rescue dogs

Have a great weekend!

Dan

AROUND TOWN

The Easton Arts Council is presenting The Shapes of Color – Photography & Painting Art Exhibition by Paula McDonagh on exhibit March 2 – April 11 in the Community Room Gallery, Easton Public Library.  

Easton Arts Council is hosting Readers Theater, “Stages”, a production inspired by International Women’s Day on Friday, March 20th at 8:00 pm, at the Easton Public Library, 671 Morehouse Road.  Stories, Monologues, and Poems reflecting the many stages and events in a woman’s life.

Spring One Book/One Town Community Read Book Discussion w/Wally Lamb on Saturday, March 21st, 2:00 pm. Join us for a virtual visit from NY Times bestselling author Wally Lamb, as we discuss his book The River is Waiting, our spring One Book/One Town Community Read. Registration is required. Sponsored by Friends of the Easton Public Library.

Get Your Tickets Now for the BSA Scouting Troop 25/66 Gourmet Breakfast on Saturday, March 21st, 7:30 am - NOON! This is the largest fundraiser of the year and a wonderful community event! We’re serving up a delicious spread of gourmet breakfast favorites, including pancakes, custom omelets, and ebelskivers (a cross between a pancake and a donut hole). Buy Tickets HERE. If you’re unable to attend, you can use this link to select your favorite Scout to support or make a direct donation to the troop. All funds raised help support Scout programs, activities, and trips throughout the year. Enjoy a great meal, support local Scouts, and help fund our programs and adventures. We hope to see you there! PLEASE NOTE: Boy Scouts will be going door-to-door to sell tickets. The Easton Police Department has been advised. We appreciate your kindness and support!

Feeling Connected in a Disconnected World: How to Help Teens Manage Anxiety and Depression, Build Resilience, and Avoid Burnout on Sunday, March 22nd, 3:00 pm at the Library. Join licensed psychologist Dr. Emily Winter of Sasco River Center for an informative presentation focused on helping caregivers and parents support teens through anxiety, depression, and burnout. Register Here

The Library is hosting the SCORE Workshop: Start Your Business Here – An Action Series to Take Your Idea to Business Launch (5-Part Series) Mondays, March 23, 30, & April 6 and Wednesdays, April 15 & 22. Registration required.

Behind the Wheel: Alcohol and its Impact on Wednesday, March 25, from 12 pm – 1 pm on Zoom. Join Catalyst CT \ The Hub and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) exploring the real-life impact of alcohol-impaired drunk driving. This session combines education, prevention strategies, and a personal story showing how one choice can change lives forever. Please register HERE

JBHS PTO Community Trivia Night: Join in on a fun-filled night of trivia! Prizes for the top teams! Open to all ages. Thursday, March 26, 7:00 pm at The Redding Roadhouse. Buy tickets HERE

This year's Annual Easter Egg Hunt EGG-Stravaganza will occur on Friday, March 27th (Rain Date TBD). Ages: 0-10. Enjoy searching for Easter eggs at our New Friends Playground at 360 Sport Hill Road. There will be SPECIAL EGGS, Easter Trivia, and a visit with the Easter Bunny! The Hunt starts at 6:15 PM - WE ASK THAT YOU DO NOT ARRIVE BEFORE 5:40 PM, THE EASTER BUNNY WILL BE HIDING EGGS! *Ages: 0-3 will hunt on the Tennis Courts, Ages: 4-10 will hunt on the Playground. Fee: FREE - Easton residents only.  REGISTRATION REQUIRED www.eastonrec.com. Don't forget your basket! All children will line up, and we will set a "GO" time. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Check our website or Facebook for rain updates.

Hop into Spring at ECC! We’re excited to invite you and your family to our first ECC Springtime Egg Hunt on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Enjoy a fun-filled activity featuring egg hunting, golden egg prizes, photos with the Easter Bunny, a festive craft corner, and tasty donuts and coffee. $15 per child (member), $20 per child (non-member), and participants are asked to bring their own basket. Please register for a one-hour time slot and arrive at the top of each hour; egg hunting will begin promptly, followed by crafts, snacks, and more to enjoy! This is a fundraising event hosted by the ECC Board of Directors, and all proceeds will directly benefit the center for much-needed building repairs and maintenance (including the now-leaking roof). We look forward to celebrating with you and creating joyful springtime memories together!

The Art and Craft of Storytelling: For Writers and Non-Writers at the Library Community Room, on Sunday, March 29, 1:00-2:30 pm. Join acclaimed author Dan Slater for a free seminar and workshop at the Easton Public Library. During the class on March 29th, Dan will convey the essential principles of the storytelling trade and help budding storytellers of all ages and backgrounds transform their raw ideas into gripping narratives.

The Newtown Conservation Commission is sponsoring a larger community event about deadly rodenticide poison. Think Outside the Bait Box "II "will be held on Saturday, April 4, from 2-4 pm at the Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street, Newtown. The event is free and open to the public.