Dan Carter's Bethel Update: Run Club Launch, Bark in the Park, and More!
FEMA Assessing Bethel Storm Damage
FEMA was back in Bethel this week, assessing damage from the recent storm and verifying information provided by the Town of Bethel and its residents. Governor Lamont has requested a Major Disaster Declaration, but approval may take a few weeks. If a federal Major Disaster is declared by the President, FEMA's Individual Assistance programs may become available through an online process, and at least one Assistance Center may be opened in the state. Stay tuned for updates.
Legislative Priorities for Bethel
The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities Policy Committees have begun setting legislative priorities for the next session. Among Bethel’s top concerns are reimbursement for special education costs and maintaining local control over affordable housing development. Last session, Bethel was shorted over $500k in expected special education reimbursement. Additionally, the State House passed HB 5390, which would have allowed development in Bethel’s downtown area without public hearings, variances, or special permits, as a condition for prioritizing state funding for town projects. Thankfully, the Senate did not call the bill, but we anticipate its return in the next session.
Bethel Public Schools Enrollment Study
Bethel Public Schools has launched a study to assess future school enrollment projections and evaluate the capacity and utilization of current facilities. The study will guide the Board of Education in planning for future needs. Bids from firms to conduct the study have been received, and the project is expected to be completed by December.
Eversource Tree Removal Project
Eversource is starting a tree removal project in the transmission right of way through Bethel. Trees that can grow over 15 feet tall within the right-of-way will be removed. Property owners should have received notification by letter. The project begins within the next two weeks and will continue through spring. Work hours are typically 7 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, with occasional Sunday work. Bethel has requested that Eversource avoid clear-cutting, even on properties the utility owns. More information is available under Transmission Vegetation Management Connecticut Projects online.
Public Utilities Reminder
The Public Utilities Department asks residents to refrain from flushing dental floss, flushable wipes, or bags of dog waste. While the system includes sewage grinders, only toilet paper should be flushed to avoid interference with operations.
Support Bethel Sports
Are you a local business or organization interested in supporting Bethel sports? The Bethel All Sports Booster Club is seeking advertising sponsors to help upgrade the scoreboards at Hunt Field, Kisling Field, and DeSantis Field. Local sports associations have raised enough to cover half the cost, but additional support is needed! Email firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov to get involved.
First Selectman Office Hours
The next office hours will be held Thursday, September 19th, at the First Selectman’s office in Town Hall from 7:30 am to 8:30 am. If that time doesn’t work for you, feel free to set up a call or appointment at 203-794-8540 or email firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov.
Bethel Run Club Launch
The Bethel Run Club starts Thursday, September 19th! A certified coach from the Road Runners Club of America will guide participants from walking to running with the goal of completing the Bethel Turkey Trot. Register through the “Programs” link at https://bethelct.myrec.com.
3rd Annual Bark in the Park
Happily Furever After Rescue is hosting its 3rd Annual Bark in the Park on Saturday, September 21st, from 11 am to 4 pm at Bennett Memorial Park. Learn more at https://www.happilyfureverafter.org/barkinthepark2024.
Bethel BMX Championship
Join Bethel BMX for the 2024 Connecticut BMX Championship on Sunday, September 22nd, at 12:00 pm (ceremony starts at 11:45 am). The preliminary race will take place on Saturday, September 21st, at 12:00 pm. If you haven’t seen a live BMX race, stop by the track behind Mitchell Park baseball fields!
Veterans Day Event
Mark your calendars for a Veterans Day event on Sunday, November 10th. The day will kick off with a charity 5k race sponsored by Folds of Honor, followed by a “Veterans Village” on the Town Hall Lawn. Folds of Honor has been providing scholarships to spouses and children of fallen or disabled military personnel and first responders since 2007. Multiple sponsorship levels are available. Learn more at www.foh.org/VeteransDay5k.
Wildcat Football Home Opener
At 7 pm tonight, the weather will be clear and 71 degrees—perfect for the Wildcat Football Home Opener! Good luck, Wildcats!
Bethel High School Athletics Honored
Congratulations to the Bethel High School Athletic Program for being named a 2023-2024 CIAC "Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup" Exemplary Program recipient! This distinction recognizes programs that uphold the values of sportsmanship. The award will be presented on October 7, 2024, at the CIAC Sportsmanship Conference. Way to go!
Wildcat Athletes of the Week
A big shoutout to this week’s Wildcat Athletes of the Week, Madison Tamburri and Dennis McNamara! Madison’s stellar defense helped the field hockey team to a 3-0 start, and Dennis shot a 41 and 44, contributing to the golf team’s victories over Joel Barlow and Weston.
Caraluzzi’s Celebrates 75 Years
Congratulations to Caraluzzi’s on celebrating 75 years in business! Thank you to the Caraluzzi family and all their employees for everything they do for the community. Check out their story in The Bethel Grapevine at https://www.bethelgrapevine.com.