Update for 3/5/2021
Good afternoon,
As the days are getting longer and the sun is feeling warmer, I am happy to report that we have made good progress on the COVID-19 front. For the two-week period ending Feb. 27, the per 100,000 rate in Easton is 9.5, one of the best rates in the state.
Connecticut, in general, is starting to open back up. Our Senior Center services are expanding. Our schools continue to function well. We will increase the number of in-person meetings and the services that can be provided in Town Hall by appointment. Yesterday, we had our second vaccination (second shot only) clinic at the Easton Library, run by the Westport Weston Health District.
We continue to assist our residents in signing up for vaccine appointments as they become eligible. The town website has information on the many ways to sign up. The system uploads new venues and new appointments daily, so if you are trying to get an appointment and can’t, be persistent and keep on trying! Remember, if you have already received your vaccination shot or shots, you are not 100% protected. You must still be vigilant about had washing, mask wearing and social distancing.
This is the time of year when town government is focused on developing next year’s budget. The Board of Finance has been meeting to review all of the town’s budgets, including the Easton Board of Education’s budget next week. The Public Hearing on the budget will be March 22 at 7 p.m. Last night at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting we set the agenda for the Special Town Meeting on March 23 at 7 p.m. at Samuel Staples Elementary School.
This c will be adjourned to a machine vote on the issues presented on that agenda on March 30 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. With the relaxation of the state restrictions, we will be able to have the meetings in-person, although the number of attendees will be restricted by Governor’s Orders. The number of attendees may be fluid based on how restrictions are rolled back.
Keep in mind that there were always limitations on the size of the meeting by fire code restrictions in the space. The meeting is being held now because some of the issues are time sensitive, budget related and should be voted on to finalize the budget submitted to the town. We will publish the agenda next week.  A notice will be sent to residents by postcard and by electronic notification.
We have noticed a number of unleashed dogs on the Morehouse Park and Samuel Staples Elementary School properties leaving behind canine excrement. Kids play on the property, so please, as a courtesy to your neighbors, pick up after your dogs.
Don’t forget the Virtual New Residents Welcome Program next Thursday, March 11 at 7 p.m. We look forward to welcoming the many folks who have recently moved to Easton. If you are an organization in town that would like to be included in the presentation, please send one or two slides for a Power Point Presentation to my office in care of Janet Haller at jhaller@eastonct.gov.
Be safe and have a happy weekend!
Dave Bindelglass
