Easton Selectmen Review Land Preservation, Legal Matters And Appointments

EASTON, CT — The Easton Board of Selectmen reviewed ongoing land preservation efforts, legal and planning matters, tax refunds and a series of appointments during its regular meeting Dec. 18, held both in person and via Zoom.

First Selectman Dan Lent called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m. The board unanimously approved minutes from its Dec. 4 regular meeting and Dec. 9 special meeting, each with amendments.

Lent provided an overview of current projects and initiatives, including efforts to promote transparency while protecting Easton’s farms and watershed. He said the town is working to fill the Land Use/Zoning Enforcement Officer position and has hired new law firms related to land-use protections. Jeff Borofsky will serve temporarily as zoning enforcement officer and Planning and Zoning assistant, Lent said. The board has also retained William Voelker of Goman and York to assist with the Applebarn matter.

Lent said the town is nearing completion of the purchase of 25 Lantern Hill in lower Easton in partnership with the Aspetuck Land Trust, a project initiated under the previous administration. He also addressed concerns raised at a recent Town Meeting regarding the voting process, noting that questions about ballot handling may require the town to seek additional legal funding approval next month.

Work has begun on the EMS Building renovation, though Lent said snowplowing and road safety remain a priority. He also said the town is negotiating with Berchem Moses to reduce fees associated with closing out prior legal cases. Lent cautioned residents about misinformation circulating on social media related to “sovereign citizen” claims and tax protests, emphasizing that official town communications should be relied upon for accurate information.

During public comment, residents raised issues including legal representation, the potential reinstatement of the Road Commission, the use of referendums for major town decisions and praise for the condition of Easton’s roads. Additional comments later in the meeting expressed support for maintaining government services, appreciation for town staff and the importance of public participation as a check on local government.

The board unanimously approved a series of tax refunds recommended by the tax collector. Members also accepted the deed of Parcel C on Adirondack Trail, approved a bid for the Easton Library cooling tower replacement, and entered executive session to discuss legal counsel. No action was taken following the executive session.

Several appointments and resignations were addressed, including appointments related to tree conservation hearings, zoning enforcement matters and the Tree Warden position. The board also accepted resignations from members of the Land Preservation and Acquisition Authority, Planning and Zoning Commission, and Pension and Employee Benefits Commission, thanking each for their service.

In board member comments, Lent encouraged residents interested in serving on the affordable housing subcommittee to come forward and expressed hope that work on restarting the Affordable Housing and Road Commissions would continue in January. He also encouraged civic participation and thanked residents for attending meetings.

The meeting adjourned at 9:14 p.m.