$2 Million Win for Bethel
The town achieved a significant financial milestone this week by refinancing nearly $27.5 million in long-term debt. Wednesday’s bond sale saved the town over $2 million! The refunding does not extend the term length, and our interest rate dropped from 4% to 2.76%. Remarkably, the sale attracted 18 bids—an unprecedented number, according to our Bond Council and Advisor, with over 30 years of experience. This outcome highlights the value of Bethel’s financial discipline and our “AAA” rating.
Parloa Park
The Board of Selectmen allocated $500,000 in ARPA funds to renovate Parloa Park. Combined with a state grant, this brings $1 million in improvements. Thanks to the Park and Rec Commission for their hard work in finalizing the plans!
Safe Streets for All
Bethel received a $160,000 federal grant for the Safe Streets for All initiative. This funding will support plans to improve traffic and pedestrian safety, particularly on Route 6 in Stony Hill. Thanks to our town and WestCOG staff for making this happen!
Dust Blowers
Please be considerate when using leaf blowers. In this Stage 2 drought, the dust they generate can inconvenience neighbors. Also, remember: no open burning allowed!
Winter Prep
Winter weather may be closer than it feels! Help keep Bethel roads safe by:
- Avoiding garbage cans in the street.
- Securing your mailbox.
- Clearing basketball hoops and other obstructions from the road.
- Removing vehicles from the street during snow events.
Childcare Survey
The Bethel Youth Commission is assessing community childcare needs, including daycare, summer camps, and after-school activities. The survey is anonymous, but participants who provide an email will be entered to win 4 tickets to Bill Blagg’s Family Magic at the Ridgefield Playhouse on February 9 at 11 AM. Results will help coordinate efforts among public, private, and non-profit organizations.
Internships Needed
Bethel High School is seeking businesses for student internship, shadowing, and work-study programs. These opportunities benefit both students and businesses by fostering innovation and providing valuable experience. I
Upcoming Events
- Parm Dinner
- St. Thomas’ Chicken/Eggplant Parm Dinner is tomorrow, November 16, at 5 PM! Enjoy a meal of chicken or eggplant parm, pasta, salad, bread, and dessert. Reservations are appreciated for takeout orders. Visit https://www.stthomasbethel.org/Dinner or call 203-743-1794. Walk-ins welcome.
- Jazz Cabaret
- Celebrate music with Bethel’s finest vocalists at the Jazz Cabaret on Sunday, November 17, at 6 PM. Tickets are $15 at the door. Doors open at 5:30 PM.
- BEF Family Board Game Night
- Join the Bethel Education Foundation for Family Board Game Night on Tuesday, November 19, from 6–8 PM in the high school cafeteria. Tickets are $5 per person. Purchase online at https://www.betheledfoundation.org/ or pay at the door after November 18.
- Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service
- Gather for the Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, November 24, at 4 PM at Bethel United Methodist Church. The theme is “United in Gratitude.” Bring non-perishable food donations to support local families.
Shoutouts
- Dr. Christine Carver, Superintendent of Bethel Public Schools, was named CAPSS Superintendent of the Year. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
- Mandy Esposito, Bethel’s Teacher of the Year, exemplifies excellence in education and inspires a love of learning in her students.
- Evan Bureau earned All New England honors with a 15:59 finish in the Boys 5K at the New England Interscholastic XC Championship. Incredible performance!
- Good luck to our 7-1 Wildcat Football Team tonight at New Milford. The playoffs are within reach!