Budget Updates
First-quarter budget reviews were completed in October, and all town departments are in good shape. We’re working to offset the significant increase in electric delivery rates, and savings from our bond refinance, coupled with careful expense management, will help. December marks the start of the next budget cycle—stay tuned for updates!
Serving on Boards and Commissions
Appointed boards and commissions are a great way to support our community. Explore vacancies and expirations at bethel-ct.gov/boards. Interested in serving or running for elected office? Contact:
- Democrats: BethelCTDemocrats@gmail.com
- Independents: Facebook Message
- Republicans: Paul.Improta@theinsurancectr.com
- Unaffiliated: firstselectman@bethel-ct.gov
Transfer Station Updates
A public hearing on changes to the Transfer Station fee schedule will be held on Tuesday, December 3rd, at 6:30 PM in Town Hall Meeting Room A.
- Bulky Items: Fee increase from $0.25 to $0.30 per pound.
- Food Scraps (spring 2024): New fee of $0.10 per pound instead of $1.00 per container.
Parks & Recreation Winter Flyer
The Parks and Recreation Winter Flyer is out! Registration begins Thursday, December 5th. View available programs at bethelct.myrec.com.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Have you checked your carbon monoxide detectors? CO poisoning causes around 1,500 deaths annually, including 50 children. Place detectors outside sleeping areas, test them monthly, and learn more at ct.gov/dph.
Bethel Fire & EMS Tree Sale
The annual Christmas Tree Sale is on! Trees are $50 (any size), with proceeds supporting our first responders. The sale runs 8 AM - 8 PM daily. Stop by the Bethel Fire Museum and learn about volunteering opportunities!
Shopping local helps Bethel businesses thrive. Start your holiday shopping right here in town! Check out the Bethel Grapevine Gift Guide or visit the Bethel Chamber of Commerce Directory for ideas.
98Q’s 14th Annual Bags & Bears
Support local foster kids by donating gift cards, baby supplies, toys, backpacks, and more. Drop donations at:
- Danbury Mall Food Court: Saturday, December 7th, 10 AM - 3 PM
- Byrd’s Books or Toy Room: By December 6th
- Bethel Social Services (Town Hall): Ongoing
Pop-Up Holiday Art Market
Bethel Arts and La Zingara are hosting a Pop-Up Holiday Art Market on Sunday, December 8th, from 4 PM - 7 PM. Shop local art and grab a one-of-a-kind Bethel ornament for $20. Preorder via Venmo: @bethelartsct.
Giving Tuesday
On December 3rd, consider supporting local charities. For resources or ways to give back, contact Bethel Social Services at 203-794-8537 or visit bethel-ct.gov/social-services.
Shoutouts
- Winterfest: Thanks to all who attended and those who made it possible! Join the tree lighting at 5:30 PM on the Town Hall lawn, followed by Santa and a ride in a fire truck!
- Festivus Pole: Public Works installed a new pole for safety lighting on the Town Hall lawn. Early “Happy Festivus” to those celebrating!
- Bethel Winter Guard: Good luck kicking off the 2024-25 season! Support their goal to return to the world championships in Dayton, OH, by visiting bethelwinterguardct.com.