Newtown Approves CIP Changes, Ethics Board Appointment, And Veterans Tax Review

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Board of Selectmen on Oct. 6 approved updates to the town’s Capital Improvement Plan, confirmed several board appointments, and discussed potential revisions to local tax policies following changes in state veterans’ exemptions.

Selectman Embree Ku moved to accept the minutes from the Sept. 29 special meeting and later introduced several motions, including a proposal to remove the Edmond Town Hall window replacement project from the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan. The motion carried unanimously. The board also accepted the overall 2026 Capital Improvement Plan as presented.

Appointments Approved

In personnel matters, the selectmen appointed Sarah Carey as a full member of the Board of Ethics, moving her from an alternate position. The board also reappointed Jonathan Kost to the Design Advisory Board, Joy Brewster to the Animal Care & Control Advisory Board, and Richard Colonel as a full board member, from an alternate member, of the Board of Ethics.

Ku read a resolution related to an advisory restoration matter and introduced a friendly amendment allowing 45 days to appoint new members, which the board approved.

Veterans Tax Exemption Under Review

First Selectman Jeffrey Capeci reported that several residents had contacted the town regarding updates to Connecticut’s veterans’ property tax exemption program. Recent state legislation broadens eligibility for veterans determined to be 100 percent disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Capeci said he had referred the matter to the Legislative Council, which serves as Newtown’s ordinance-writing body, to ensure local policies align with the new state provisions. He noted the council is near the end of its current term and may need to take up the issue after the new session begins in December.

Public Feedback and Budget Transfers

A resident email submitted to the board expressed concern over a proposed budget transfer from the Registrar of Voters to the Town Clerk’s Office, urging the town to delay such action until later in the fiscal year if needed.

Upcoming Revaluation

The meeting also included discussion materials about the upcoming 2026 property revaluation, which will employ aerial imagery to assist with assessments. Officials said the technology helps ensure equitable taxation, faster data collection, and reduced human error.

The Board of Selectmen adjourned after approving routine financial transfers totaling $11,157.28 and reviewing the ongoing lawsuit concerning the Stone Bridge Trail project.