This past week provided me with opportunities to learn of new resources that are available to the Town of Old Lyme. I have completed a 12 hour training session from the State of CT to become certified as a Local Traffic Authority (LTA). This mandated training is new as a result of Senate Bill 904.  As the LTA for our Town, I will be able to work with the CT Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and others on traffic-related matters on State roads. The first point of contact for any traffic-related concerns on any Old Lyme public road is our Resident State Trooper, Matt Weber.

I also had the pleasure of meeting with Teresa Jackman who serves as our Eversource Community Relations Liaison. Teresa suggested that all residents check their rates as new increased winter rates will begin with your January bills. You can learn more about the Eversource assistance program and explore solutions at EnergizeCT.org. Old Lyme residents can also reach out to our Social Services Coordinator, Amy Bonatti, if you need financial help with winter heating bills.

It is inspiring how much of the Town's government is dependent on the dedicated volunteers (over 240!) that sit on our Boards, Commissions and Committees. If you are interested in joining a Board or Commission, I encourage you to go to a meeting and see first hand how you might contribute. Annual appointments will take place in January at the Board of Selectmen's regular meeting. If you are interested in serving please fill out the application for consideration and submit it by December 27^th. 

Reminder: The Town of Old Lyme Citizen of the Year nomination form can be found on the Selectman's Office page, please have your nominations in by December 21^st.

Old Lyme does not have leaf pick-up. Please do not rake or blow your leaves out onto the streets as this endangers the passage of travel.

The community tree lighting will take place at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts at their Third Annual Holiday Enchantment, this Saturday, December 9^th. Adults and children are invited to gather on the campus from 3-5pm for an afternoon of festive outdoor and indoor activities including art demonstrations, music by the Old Lyme Town Band, and Lyme-Old Lyme High School Select Singers. Hope to see you there.

All the Best,

First Selectwoman Martha Shoemaker