For the first time, the members of the board met entirely via Zoom because of the snowstorm and bitter cold temperatures. The board unanimously acted on routine matters by approving the minutes of the Dec. 3 meeting and approving several tax refunds as recommended by the tax collector.
EMS Generator
The board agreed to waive the bidding process for a generator for the EMS building because of the concern that the existing generator may fail at any time based on its recent history. Bids had been received, but all of the bids recommended a Generac product that the director of public works did not feel suited the needs of the town. The town will now solicit quotes on Kohler brand generators and another brand. The town currently has five Kohler brand generators which have served the town very well.
Tax Extension
Governor Lamont has recently issued executive order 9R which would extend the due date for taxes by one month identical to what was done for taxpayers in June with the July 1 tax due date. Towns were given some options at that time. If no action is taken by Dec. 31, the same extension terms selected by the town in June will remain in force for the January tax installment. The board decided not to change the previously approved extension terms. Taxpayers who are interested in these options should contact the tax collector’s office for details.
Covid-19 Status
First Selectman Bindelglass updated the board on Covid 19 matters. The state has listed some details on the vaccine rules which are posted on the state website. The Moderna vaccine, the second Covid-19 vaccine in the pipeline, was approved and should shortly be available. It is easier to use than the Pfizer vaccine as it can be stored at a higher temperature and has a shorter waiting period between the two doses. The town had a few fewer cases in the past two weeks but our numbers are still high. The town may be nearing the point where reduced hours for the library may be necessary to help slow the spread.
5G Wireless Service
One resident spoke during public comment to ask the board to extend the moratorium on installing 5G wireless service in the town. Earlier this year the board adopted the moratorium with an end date of Dec. 31. The board will take up the issue at its first meeting in January. As there are no present plans to install 5G in Easton, the delay should not present an issue.
Holiday Wishes, Thanks to Matt Gacchi
Selectwoman Sogofsky extended holiday good wishes to everyone and urged residents to be safe and smart during the holiday season. First Selectman Bindelglass also wished everyone a safe and happy holiday season. He spoke about a plan to arrange a welcome to Easton event or series of events for new residents and for residents who just want more information about town government, local service organizations and non-profits, and local businesses. More details will follow after the first of the year. He also expanded on his previous remarks thanking Matt Gachi, former Board of Finance member and chair, for his fine service to the town.
