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Easton selectmen cite soil contamination at EMS site, hire independent reviewer
Summary
Easton selectmen reported discovery of widespread soil contamination at the EMS renovation site, estimated at about 668 cubic yards of impacted soil; the board unanimously approved a not-to-exceed $7,500 engagement of EKI Environmental for an independent technical review and recommendations.
The Easton Board of Selectmen on June 4 discussed newly discovered soil contamination at the town's EMS renovation site and approved an independent technical review to refine remediation options and cost estimates.
Chair Dan Lent told the board the site has “widespread soil contamination” and that the town estimates removal of approximately 668 cubic yards of impacted soil, which will require specialized disposal. He said evolving CT DEEP requirements have increased the need for further environmental review and potential project restructuring, creating budget pressure beyond initial site work allocations.
The board unanimously approved a motion by Selectman Kristi Sogofsky, seconded by Selectman Nick D'Addario, to engage EKI Environmental and Water for a not-to-exceed amount of $7,500 to provide an independent technical review of site conditions, remediation options, regulatory pathways and written recommendations to assist project planning and cost refinement.
Members of the public urged transparency about site conditions, questioned whether appropriate environmental due diligence and disclosure occurred at the time of property acquisition, and asked about projected timelines and cost escalation. The public commenters also thanked volunteers and staff working on remediation and project planning.
The board did not identify a dedicated funding source for remediation in the meeting record. Officials said additional environmental review and project restructuring were underway to determine compliant remediation strategies and to refine cost estimates. The record does not specify a contractor for remediation work, a remediation timeline, or a funding commitment for cleanup.
The board directed staff to proceed with the independent review; the EKI engagement is intended to inform next steps, including potential changes to project scope, budget, and regulatory filings with CT DEEP. The board is expected to consider the EKI findings and any recommended cost adjustments in a future meeting.
