Senior Homelessness
Town leaders met this week to address the growing issue of senior homelessness. While homelessness may not be immediately visible in Bethel, some of our most vulnerable neighbors are facing housing insecurity. If you are aware of any seniors at risk of losing their housing, please reach out to Bethel's Social Services and Senior Center, which may be able to assist. Keep an eye out for those struggling and consider speaking with the Director of Social Services. For more information, visit Bethel Social Services.
EV Chargers
The Board of Selectmen has approved a proposal to replace the current electric vehicle chargers at Depot Place parking lot and the train station lot. Additionally, three new EV charging locations will be added at the Municipal Center, the Library, and Bethel High School. More details to come soon.
Police Commission
Speeding is a significant concern for Bethel residents. At this week’s Police Commission meeting, it was reported that the Bethel Police Department is actively addressing the issue, making 436 traffic stops in September alone. The Police Commission meets monthly on the third Wednesday at 6 pm in the Bethel Police Department Community Room. Meeting agendas and minutes can be found here.
EDC Team Bethel
The Economic Development Commission is assembling a team of local business owners to participate in the Main Street Accelerator program through the CT Main Street Center. This initiative focuses on executing small-scale projects that foster positive change downtown. The Bethel EDC team aims to “boost brand awareness and attract commerce and tourism in downtown Bethel.” For more details, visit Main Street Accelerator. Interested business owners can email eddirector@bethel-ct.gov by Monday, October 21st.
Early Voting
Early voting for the November 5th election begins Monday, October 21st in Town Hall Meeting Room A. Voting hours between October 21st-31st and November 1st-3rd are from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours from 8 am to 8 pm on October 29th and October 31st. For more details, visit MyVote.CT.gov or Election Day Information.
Public Hearings
The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings on Tuesday, October 22nd at 7:00 pm in Conference Room D of Town Hall. Hearings will address a special permit for a modular building at 32 Henry Street and 6 units of 8-30g Affordable Housing at 9 Putnam Park Road. For more details, visit 2024 Zoning.
Monday Night Book Club
WorkspaceCT Halloween
Get into the Halloween spirit this weekend at WorkspaceCT! On Saturday, October 19th from 5:00-6:00 pm, enjoy a Haunted Pirate Ship Theatre, pumpkin painting, and cookie decorating for just $5 per person or $15 per family. Costumes are encouraged! Learn more and sign up here.
Additionally, WorkspaceCT will be hosting fall cookie making for all ages on Thursday, October 24th. More details are available here.
BTC Ice Cream Social
The Bethel Teen Center will host an Ice Cream Social/Open House on Friday, October 25th from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm for Bethel students in grades 7-12. Sixth graders interested in the Teen Center and Open Gym are also welcome. Meet the staff, tour the facility, and learn more about after-school activities and events. Parents are welcome to attend. For questions, email teencenter@bethel-CT.gov.
Shoutouts
- Shoutout to the Bethel and Brookfield football teams, who are raising funds at tonight’s Bethel vs. Weston game to help Asheville, NC residents affected by Hurricane Helene. Go Wildcats!
- Congratulations to the BHS Boys Soccer team for their undefeated season and #1 spot in the SWC tournament!
- Shoutout to the Lady Wildcats, who are Colonial Division Champions and ranked #2 in the SWC tournament!
- Bethel Boys Cross Country team are SWC Champions for the first time since 1982!
- Congrats to the Stony Hill Volunteer Fire Company, celebrating their 75th anniversary this weekend! Learn more about joining this amazing organization here.
- A huge thank you to the Voter Registrars, Town Clerk, and their staff for all the hard work in preparation for the upcoming election!