Weather Alert: Post Tropical Cyclone Debby
As Post Tropical Cyclone Debby approaches, expect showers and thunderstorms tonight and into the morning. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated in Western Connecticut. Sustained winds of 12-25 mph are forecasted across the state, with gusts reaching 30-35 mph. Eversource Electric will declare an ERP Level 5 at 6 pm today, indicating the potential for up to 125,000 customers losing power and fewer than 3,000 tree-related damage incidents. Stay tuned to local media channels and exercise caution on the roads. Town emergency management personnel will communicate through our alert system if needed. You can sign up for alerts at Bethel-CT.gov.
Website Scam Alert
There have been reports of a fraudulent website that mimics the Town of Bethel's official site. This fake site leads to a message with a Microsoft logo, claiming that your computer has been compromised and locked for your protection. It then instructs you to call a number to fix the issue. Ensure you are visiting the correct website at www.Bethel-CT.gov for accurate town information.
Lawn Sign Policy
The town typically does not remove lawn signs promoting nonprofit events, recognizing the valuable role these organizations play in our community. However, signs advertising businesses or political messages on town property may be removed as resources allow. Please remove any event signs promptly after the event concludes. If you are missing signs, contact Public Works, as they do not discard them.
Lead Poisoning Prevention: Lead Free CT
Each year, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are affected by lead poisoning, which can cause significant health and developmental issues. The primary source of lead exposure is lead-based paint and dust in homes built before 1978. This week, the Governor announced the launch of Lead Free CT, a program that provides homeowners and landlords with the opportunity to make older homes lead-safe by removing lead paint hazards at no cost. Visit www.leadfreect.org to see if you qualify.
Bethel’s Food Scrap Program Success
Bethel's Food Scrap Program has been a success, and we are moving toward making it a permanent service! By the end of 12 months, 12 tons of food waste will have been diverted, saving residents money on waste disposal while benefiting the environment. The Public Works department has effectively managed grant funds, resulting in additional funding from CT DEEP for scale repairs and upgrades to the POS system at the Transfer Station. We are now planning to reduce or eliminate transportation and disposal costs by developing processing capabilities within the municipality.
Nicky’s Mozzarella Event
Join Nicky Zooks at Bethel Organics and Specialty Market on Elizabeth St. tomorrow, August 10th, between 9 am and 5 pm, for a fresh Mozzarella event complete with a free tasting! Nicky will also be offering his homemade Focaciatta bread, so don’t miss out on this delicious opportunity. Learn more https://www.facebook.com/Nickywilleatit/
- Planning & Zoning Public Hearing: On Tuesday, August 13th, at 7:00 pm in Conference Room D at Town Hall, the Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing for a special permit to conduct a dog grooming business at 268 Greenwood Ave. The commission will also continue hearings on a new gas station/convenience store at 22 Stony Hill Rd. and an addition to the existing manufacturing warehouse at 165 Grassy Plain St. Learn more at Bethel Public Hearing and Bethel Zoning.
- Charter Revision Public Hearing: On Wednesday, August 14th, at 7:00 pm in the General Purpose Room at Town Hall, the Charter Revision Commission will hold a public hearing to gather feedback on proposed changes to the Bethel Town Charter. The charter establishes the structure of our local government, making this an important opportunity to learn more and have your voice heard.
Food Truck Friday Finale
Don’t miss the final Food Truck Friday of the season on Friday, August 16th, from 5 pm to 8 pm. The Steel Blues Band will be performing, and a variety of food trucks will satisfy your hunger, including The Artisan Food Trailer, Weenie Lynn’s, Brazilian BBQ Boys, Punchy’s Island Grill, Szabo’s Seafood, and Jesse’s Ice Cream Truck. Let’s hope for great weather to close out the season! Remember to consider takeout options from our local restaurants, and utilize the parking lot behind Town Hall. A big thank you to Newtown Savings Bank and ELC Energy Solutions for sponsoring this event.
Summer Concert Series Continues
The Town of Bethel Summer Concert Series continues on Sundays in August from 6 pm to 8 pm on the Town Hall lawn. The lineup includes Reckless Rodeo on August 11th, the Kenn Morr Band on August 18th, and the Tom Duffy Band on August 25th. Please note that there will be no food trucks, so plan accordingly. In case of inclement weather, call 203-794-8502 for cancellations.
Holbrook Farm’s New Chapter
Holbrook Farm has been revitalized with Iron Hill at Holbrook Farm! An iconic part of Bethel for 40 years, Holbrook Farm is remembered fondly, especially for the late John Holbrook’s love for the community and his chickens. It’s wonderful to see a new farmer, Jon, carrying on the tradition with the same passion for farming and the people of Bethel. Visit them any day between 10 am and 6 pm at 45A Turkey Plain Rd. Their scones and bread come highly recommended!
Back-to-School Success
A big thank you to Bethel Social Services and volunteers for the successful Back-to-School program! This year, 96 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students in need. A special shoutout to ComNet Communications volunteers for their continued support of this important program.