July 11 Update From Easton First Selectman Bindelglass

**News Release Submitted by Easton First Selectman Bindelglass**

July 11, 2025

Good afternoon,

Last week, I announced that Schuyler Sherwood was sworn in as our new Emergency Management Director. This week, we began a series of meetings dedicated to improving public safety and emergency response to major events. I believe strongly that we all will benefit from better coordination and preparation when the inevitable next event occurs. As if to underscore the importance of this, just look at the terrible tragedy this past week in Texas. Our hearts go out to those affected.

Together with the investments we have made this year in communication systems and the updated EMS facility, the town is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents to the greatest extent possible.

In line with that, on Monday, July 14, at 10 am, we will be holding a “modified” groundbreaking ceremony for the EMS renovation. Of course, we are not actually breaking ground, but we will be posting state-mandated construction signs. Much work has already taken place, as you may have noticed when driving by. I am pleased with the progress.

Starting July 14th, South Park Avenue will be closed between Tersana Drive and Riverside Lane for drainage work. Weather permitting, this closure will last about two weeks. Please follow detour signs to get around the closure. You can view the Detour Map here. If you have any questions, please call Easton Public Works Dept. at (203) 268-0714.

As most of us have received our tax bills, some may have seen increases in their motor vehicle assessments. Over the past couple of years, the Governor and State Legislators have proposed and passed legislation to reform the motor vehicle valuation process for property taxes. In the past, motor vehicles were assessed at 70% of the retail value of the vehicle. Effective for the October 1, 2024, Grand List (for July 2025 taxes), motor vehicles will be valued using the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) and applying the Statutory Depreciation Schedule to determine the depreciated value. The assessment is 70% of the depreciated value of the vehicle. As we transition to this new valuation method, some residents will see reductions in their assessments, while others—particularly those with older vehicles—may see increases. Additionally, snowmobiles, ATVs, and personal-use residential utility trailers are now exempt from taxation, so you will no longer receive a tax bill for those vehicles. For more information, please visit the Motor Vehicle section of the Assessor’s webpage at https://www.eastonct.gov/assessor/pages/motor-vehicles.

The Easton Tax Collector’s and Assessor’s offices are committed to ensuring residents pay only what they owe—while avoiding unnecessary fees and frustration. Along with your tax bill, you will find an insert containing important information. Please read it carefully. You can also find information at the following links on our website:

• Motor Vehicle Taxes Link
• New Vehicle Assessment Rules
• Veterans

June 27th, 2025, marked a momentous occasion — the 100th anniversary of the Lions Club International! June 30th commemorates what would have been the 145th birthday of Helen Keller, a remarkable advocate for individuals with disabilities. In 1925, Helen Keller issued a powerful challenge to the Lions Club, urging its members to become “Knights of the Blind in the crusade against darkness.” Inspired by her vision and courage, the Lions embraced this mission, and for a century, have worked tirelessly to improve sight and support communities around the world. Join us in honoring this legacy of service and compassion. If you’d like to donate to support the Lions Club's ongoing humanitarian efforts, please visit: https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/donate

Easton Community Action Alert for Ukraine! There is an emergency need for manual tools to help dig out. If you have any such items you’re willing to donate, the Easton Fire Department has offered to be the town’s collection point to receive donations for shipment to Ukraine. Here’s an opportunity to clean out your garage to donate duplicate items you may have! The collection runs through July 19th. A drop-off storage container is on the Easton Fire Department premises.

Around Town:

Concerts on the Hill at Christ Church on Sundays, June 22- July 27. Gates open at 5:30 pm. Music 6:00 – 8:00 pm. $12/adult, $8/senior, kids free. Food trucks at all events. Line up: Sunday, July 13 CT Grateful Dead All Stars, 7/20 Birdsey Beers, 7/27 Dan Tressler & Friends. More info here.

The Easton Senior Center has scheduled with AARP for Safe Driving Classes. The dates are: Friday, July 18th, Friday, September 12th, & Friday, November 7th. All classes are from 11:15 to 3:15. The cost is $24 for members and $25 for non-members. Please sign up for the class you are interested in.

Easton Animal Shelter Fundraiser on Saturday, July 19th from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at Rolling Rock Stable, 9 Rock House Road, Easton. Discover the power of healing for you and your companion animals. Guest speaker Julianne Roshan Dow will explain the art of Jin Shin Jytstu wellness techniques to help restore balance, relieve stress, and build confidence in your body and those of your four-legged friends. Tickets $40. Please contact Carly Hanson at rollingrockstable20@gmail.com \ 203-858-8665. Venmo to secure registration @carly-hanson-2 or pay day of with cash.

The “Grow a Row Program” for Easton Seniors is underway. Donations of homegrown produce or items purchased from Easton farms can be dropped off at Shaggy Coos Farm at 53 Center Road on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon, beginning July 8, for volunteers to deliver the food to Easton’s seniors.

Blueberry picking has started at Aspetuck Land Trust for members. To become a member, click here!
Aspetuck Heath District has a new look! Check out their updated website here. It includes information about permits, property records, vaccines, beach updates, tick info, septic care, and more!

Did you know that the Old Academy Hall has yoga classes? Both morning and evening classes are available. Check their calendar here. Hosted by the Staples Academy Foundation.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Dave