Easton Selectmen Review Housing Policies, Roof Repairs

EASTON, CT — The Easton Board of Selectmen on Dec. 4 reviewed tax refunds, discussed long-running roof leaks at Town Hall, and examined potential changes to the town’s affordable housing policies while also approving several board and commission appointments.

First Selectman Dan Lent called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m. and the board approved amended minutes from Nov. 20.

Residents Question Housing, Enforcement and Repair Issues

During public comment, residents asked about the Affordable Housing District charge and membership, enforcement of zoning violations, and whether the Land Use and Zoning Enforcement Officer roles might be combined. Lent said the positions would remain separate for now. Other residents requested a proclamation for a future agenda and raised concerns about persistent leaks in the Town Hall roof.

Selectmen Approve Tax Refunds

The board unanimously approved 19 tax refunds recommended by the tax collector, totaling several thousand dollars and involving vehicle lease trusts and corporate leasing accounts.

Discussion on Road Commission and Housing Plan

Lent noted that town ordinances still require a Road Commission, and the board will review whether the provision is outdated. Selectwoman Kristi Sogofsky said commissioners must be civil engineers, which has made recruitment difficult.

The board also discussed the town’s Affordable Housing Plan, which currently includes maintaining an Affordable Housing Committee. Lent said the next plan will need to be drafted in coming years, and Sogofsky suggested adding time limits and clarifying the committee’s charge.

Selectmen later reviewed whether Easton should consider establishing an affordable housing trust fund, similar to those used in other regions, allowing fees to be collected for open space purchases or housing initiatives. Sogofsky said any trust would require a funding mechanism in ordinance. Lent added he hopes to explore the idea with surrounding towns.

Town Hall Roof Continues to Leak

Selectmen received an update on long-standing roof failures at Town Hall. According to the minutes, offices have used buckets to catch water, and leaks have damaged paint, moldings, and the map room. Contractor Dahill proposed $155,000 for roof repairs, and the town is seeking two additional quotes. Lent said if repairs do not hold, the town may need a multi-year capital plan to address the entire building.

Multiple Board and Commission Appointments Approved

The board unanimously approved a series of appointments:

• David Wheatley to the Board of Finance through Jan. 1, 2033
• Anthony Battaglia to the Board of Police Commissioners through Jul. 1, 2028
• James Coppola to the Park & Recreation Commission through Jan. 4, 2027
• Steven Waugh to the Planning & Zoning Commission through Jan. 2, 2026
• Joan Kirk as an adjunct to the Cemetery Committee through Dec. 2, 2027
• Deirdra Preis a member of the Cemetery Committee through Dec. 1, 2031

Selectmen encouraged residents to check openings and contact the First Selectman’s Office.

Updates on Regional Dispatch, Communications and Local Events

Sogofsky reported updates from the Aspectuck Health District Task Force and reminded residents to look for information on the regional dispatch center.

Board members also discussed upcoming town events, including the Tree Lighting and meetings with MetroCog regarding a recent water system appeal.

Executive Session and Adjournment

The board entered executive session at 9:12 p.m. and returned to open session at 10:12 p.m. with no action taken. The meeting adjourned at 10:13 p.m. following a unanimous vote.