October has arrived, but the weekend weather may feel more like summer! This week we have many important updates to share. Here is the latest information on our new employees.

• The Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association has hired Sammee Piette as the new Town Nurse. Sammee began her work at the Senior Center on Wednesday. She will be at the Senior Center from 10:30 -12:30 daily for blood pressure checks and to provide information as needed. Sammee will be working with the Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association to develop programs and resources for town residents.
• The Town of Old Lyme has hired Juliann “Julie” Carlos as the new Land Use Technician. As I mentioned last week, the interview committee held a second round of interviews and made their final decision this week. Julie is excited to be part of the Land Use team and will begin her position on Thursday, October 16^th.
• We also hired two new clerks who will be assigned to some of our Authorities, Boards, Commissions and Committees (A/B/C). Cassidy Corey and Jasmine Willis are training next week and then will be assigned to their positions. These are important roles that assist with writing the agendas and minutes for their A/B/C’s and help keep the town informed.

The Zoning Commission has been actively working on a comprehensive update of our Zoning Regulations. These revisions aim to modernize outdated provisions, improve regulatory clarity, and support responsible growth while preserving the town’s historic character, natural resources, and coastal charm. The Zoning Commission is encouraging community members to review and engage with the rewrite of the regulations, which reflect our shared vision for the future of Old Lyme.

The Flood and Erosion Control Board has developed a survey for residents of Old Lyme. They ask that you take a few moments to complete the survey and share your thoughts on the topics presented.

RiverCOG is updating the regional Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan. Their consultants have helped them develop a short public survey - share your experience to create a better plan.

The White Sand Beach Association has asked us to make you aware that White Sand Beach Road will be closed for 24 hours on Saturday, October 11^th. A public notice was posted in The Day, which you can find on our website. The Association asked that it also be shared by the Town. Please make sure you have alternate routes planned if you are visiting the area on October 11^th.

Parks and Recreation Director, Don Bugbee and Assistant Director, Winnie Edmed would like to give a big shout out to all of their amazing Youth Soccer volunteer coaches. Programs like this would not work without you. Don and Winnie wanted all their volunteer coaches to know that their hard work and dedication does not go unnoticed.

The Annual Fire Prevention Open House Night is this upcoming Wednesday, October 8^th  at the Lyme Street Fire Station. They have a fun family night planned from 5:30-8:30PM.  

This weekend we have some wonderful activities taking place in Old Lyme. First, the 20th Annual Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Foundation Walk for a Cure will take place tomorrow, Saturday, October 4^th. As many of you know, the walkers pass through a large part of Old Lyme. Please be aware of all the additional pedestrians on our roads. A special shout out to the Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association who will be hosting the water station at Saint Ann’s Church on Route 156.

If it is October, then it is time for PAWtoberfest! The Friends of the Old Lyme Animal Control are once again holding this fun-filled event at the Old Lyme Animal Shelter, 3 Machnik Drive in Old Lyme tomorrow from 10 AM – 3PM. Please come out to support Animal Control Officer Lynn Philemon, her staff and volunteers. They have had a busy few months and would appreciate your support!

Enjoy the sunshine this weekend!

All my best, 
Martha