A Message from First Selectman Vicki A. Tesoro

Happy New Year!

The Town’s 2026-2027 budget process is underway. Updates and notices of town budget meetings will be posted on the Town Website and Facebook page. The following is a summary of the budget process:

Town Budget Process

1. The Board of Education (BOE) meets in January to review and discuss the Superintendent’s budget request. The BOE votes on their budget in February.
2. Next, Town Department Heads (including BOE) submit and discuss their budget requests with the First Selectman and the Director of Finance. First Selectman prepares the proposed Town budget.
3. By Town Charter, the First Selectman must submit the proposed budget to the Board of Finance (BOF) no later than the first Monday of March. This year that date is March 2, 2026.
4. The BOF holds budget hearings with the Town Department Heads (including the BOE) during March.
5. The BOF holds two public hearings on the budget, one on a weeknight and another on a Saturday morning. The budget is published in the local newspaper. The tentative dates for these hearings are: Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
6. By Town Charter, the BOF no later than the second Monday in April must submit its recommended budget to the Town Council. This year that date is April 13, 2026.
7. Next, the Town Council Finance Committee holds budget hearings with the Town Department Heads (including the BOE). They will vote to make recommendations to the full Town Council.
8. The Town Council will hold a public hearing, and the budget is published in the local newspaper.
9. By Town Charter, the Town Council adopts the budget no later than the second Monday in May. This year that date is May 11, 2026. The Town Council can decrease any line item by a majority vote but can only increase up to the First Selectman’s recommended budget by 2/3 votes of the entire membership (21 members so 2/3 is 14).
10. The BOF will set the mill rate, based on the Town Council’s adopted budget no later than the second Monday in June. This year that date is June 8, 2026. 

I will meet with every Town Department Head including the School Superintendent to discuss their budget requests. My proposed budget will be presented to the Town and the BOF on Monday, March 2, 2026.  

I continue to work with our state officials advocating for more education dollars for Trumbull. I encourage members of the public to advocate with state officials as well.  A simple email as follows can be sent to the below listed individuals at their email addresses: "I am a resident of the Town of Trumbull. Please provide additional funding for special education and Education Cost Sharing dollars (ECS). Thank you for your time and consideration." 

Governor Ned Lamont, 1-800-406-1527, 860-566-4840, Governor.Lamont@po.state.ct.us

Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, 860-524-7384, ltgovernor.Bysiewicz@ct.gov

State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox (22^nd district), 860-240-0425, Sujata.gadkar-wilcox@cga.ct.gov, gadkarwilcox@senatedems.ct.gov

State Representative David Rutigliano (123^rd district), 860-240-8700, David.Rutigliano@housegop.ct.gov

State Representative Sarah Keitt (134^th district), 860-240-8585, Sarah.Keitt@cga.ct.gov

State Representative Ben McGorty (122^nd district), 860-240-8757, Ben.McGorty@housegop.ct.gov

State Representative Tony Scott (112^th district), 800-842-1423, 860-240-8700, Tony.Scott@housegop.ct.gov

I will be holding a public hearing in February to discuss the budget process. That date of that hearing will be announced soon. 

As we navigate the winter season, if you have not done so, please sign up for Town Emergency and Community Information on Trumbull Citizen Alert. This emergency and community notification system enables the Town of Trumbull to provide important community notifications and essential information quickly in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, evacuation of buildings or neighborhoods, and other emergency situations. Click here or go to the town website, click on the Trumbull Citizen Alert button and follow the prompts.

Swearing In of Elected Officials Held

The Town of Trumbull held a Swearing-In Ceremony of First Selectman Vicki A. Tesoro and Trumbull Town Officials. The ceremony was held at Madison Middle School on Monday, December 1, 2025. Music was provided by the Trumbull High School Golden Eagle Marching Band and the Madison Singers. We welcome all new and returning town officials and wish them a successful and productive term of office!

2026 Revaluation

The Town of Trumbull has contracted Vision Government Solutions to assist with the upcoming 2026 town-wide revaluation. Vision's Appraisal Division will work in close partnership with the Tax Assessor's office to ensure a successful and accurate revaluation process.

Data mailers have been sent to all owners of residential properties.

For more information on the 2026 Revaluation please visit https://www.trumbull-ct.gov/1199/2026-Revaluation

Extreme Cold Information from the Office of Emergency Management

January is here, and it often brings periods of extreme cold. The Emergency Management Extreme Heat or Cold page of the Town website provides information on local Warming Centers, and links to sites with helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme cold this winter.

Kindergarten Registration for 2026-2027

It's time to think about kindergarten registration! Trumbull Public Schools will begin registering students for the Class of 2038 on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. If you are looking to register your child for the 2026-2027 school year, please click here for all the information you need.

Welcome the Trumbull Police Department's New Social Worker

The Trumbull Police Department is proud to welcome Giovanna Mozzo, LMSW, as its new social worker. Giovanna brings more than 15 years of experience in behavioral health, nonprofit leadership, and community-based services. In her role with TPD, she will work closely with officers, residents, and service providers to address behavioral health crises, connect individuals with appropriate care, and support a holistic approach to public safety and community wellness. We look forward to the positive impact she will have in strengthening partnerships, supporting mental health, and serving our community with compassion. Please join us in welcoming Giovanna to Trumbull!

New Police Academy Graduate

The Trumbull Police Department is proud to congratulate Officer Stephen Cristoforo (center) on graduating from the police academy on December 17, 2025! His hard work, dedication, and commitment to service are truly commendable. Welcome to Trumbull!

Bead Jewelries Opens at Hawley Lane Mall

A ribbon cutting was held on December 6, 2025 for Bead Jewelries, which recently opened at Hawley Lane Mall. Bead Jewelries provides unique handmade designs, using natural gemstones, glass and aurora beads, and stainless steel. Please help us to welcome this new business to Trumbull!

Sacred Heart MBA Students Presented Mall Survey Results

For their Capstone project, four SHU MBA students worked on a survey to garner insights on SHU student perceptions of and interactions with the Trumbull Mall. They subsequently did a presentation to Town staff to share the results of the survey which they digested thoroughly and presented thoughtfully. The insights gained will be invaluable to our efforts around improving the Mall and bringing new businesses that will meet current and future demands.

Storage Facility Coming to 6 Cambridge Drive

A vacant office building at 6 Cambridge Drive has been purchased and the plan is to move forward with a modified version of a previously approved site plan for a storage facility. The buyer is waiting for an under the wire permit from Eversource to begin environmental remediation of the site, which will be followed by building demolition and construction. This will remediate a blighted property and will be a significant improvement to the area. The facility will be a good asset for Trumbull, which is in need of local storage facilities. 

Call for Community Volunteer Fair Exhibitors

The Trumbull Library is seeking community organizations to participate as exhibitors in our 3rd Annual Community Volunteer Fair, to be held on Saturday, March 7, from 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. This popular event draws hundreds of attendees from across Fairfield County, including students seeking service hours and seniors looking to stay engaged - making it an excellent opportunity to recruit volunteers and raise awareness of your mission. Exhibitor space is limited; applications and details are available at trumbull-ct.gov/1013/2026-Community-Volunteer-Fair.

AARP Tax-Aide Free Income Tax Help

AARP is offering free tax return preparation by AARP/IRS certified tax volunteers. 

Where: Trumbull Main Library, Quality Street

Hours: By appointment only from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, each Wednesday from February 4 until April 15, 2026 and each Friday from February 6 until April 10, 2026.

Appointments: You must make an appointment by calling the Trumbull Library at 203-452-5197 to schedule your appointment. 

What to Bring: 

• Photo ID or other type of identification
• Social Security Card and Statement (SSA 1099)
• A copy of your 2024 tax return and/or prior year AARP envelope
• All tax forms received for tax year 2025 (W-2, 1095, 1099)
• End of year Investment statements (INT, DIV, Stocks, Bonds)
• List of Itemized Deductions (medical, donations, taxes)
• Any other tax documents you might have
• IRS PIN if issued, cancelled check for direct deposit

Please note that there will be no tax sessions held if the Trumbull Schools are closed due to weather and on Good Friday, April 3.

Trumbull Human Services 2025 Holiday Program was a Big Success!

The Trumbull Human Services staff extends our heartfelt thanks to all who made their 2025 holiday program a huge success assisting 61 Families/160 children.

Community Sponsors who participated include:

• Long Hill Fire Department
• Nichols Fire Department
• Trumbull Rotary
• Trumbull Community Woman
• Trumbull Democratic Party
• Baker Pediatrics
• William Raveis Real Estate
• Vaughn Family Dentistry
• Trumbull Home Depot
• Michael Murray & the Holiday
   Angels

Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair was Held

The Trumbull Senior Center held its Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair on December 5, 2025. Many talented artists and crafters displayed their creations for sale. It was a great opportunity for all of the Center's current art students, needlework group, and more to showcase and sell their own personal works of art. We have such talented members!

Trumbull Health Department Offers Free Radon Kits on January 28 While Supplies Last

The Trumbull Health Department is offering free radon test kits to Trumbull residents, while supplies last, to help homeowners identify potential radon exposure in their homes. Residents may pick up one radon test kit per household on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Trumbull Library, 33 Quality Street. A valid driver’s license is required at pickup to verify residency. Trumbull Health Department sanitarians will be on site to answer questions and provide guidance on radon testing.

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can enter homes through cracks in basement floors, foundation walls, or through well water. Prolonged exposure to elevated radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. While only about one in five homes has a radon problem, testing is the only way to know if radon is present in your home.

Residents are encouraged to carefully follow the instructions included with the test kit. The test involves placing a small device in the home for at least 48 hours and then mailing it to Air Chek, Inc. for analysis. Test results will be shared with both the homeowner and the Trumbull Health Department.

Radon levels vary throughout Connecticut and can differ significantly from one home to another—even within the same neighborhood. Because radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, testing remains the only reliable method for detection.

If test results show radon levels of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) strongly recommends that homeowners hire a qualified radon mitigation professional to reduce exposure. However, radon exposure at any level carries some health risk, and CT DPH suggests homeowners may consider mitigation when levels exceed 2 pCi/L.

Radon mitigation professionals are trained to reduce indoor radon levels using ventilation and depressurization systems and other proven techniques. The CT DPH estimates that radon mitigation typically costs between $1,200 and $1,500, depending on the home. A list of licensed radon professionals is available on the CT DPH website at www.ct.gov/dph/radon.

For residents unable to obtain a free kit, radon test kits may also be purchased through the American Lung Association at www.lung.org or by calling 1-800-LUNG-USA or 1-860-289-5401, as well as at many local hardware stores.

Blood Drive on February 27

The Trumbull Health Department, Trumbull Senior Center, and American Red Cross have partnered to host our 3rd annual blood drive on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, at the Trumbull Senior Center, 23 Priscilla Place in the Smile-A-While Auditorium. Appointments are required. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: trumbullhealth to schedule an appointment. All those who donate blood will receive a $20 e-gift card by email, so make sure your email address is correct during registration.

Blood donations support the medical care of those who may have an emergency and in need of blood. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for people in need. Please consider donating blood and make an appointment today!

New Big Belly Trash and Recycling Bins

NEW Big Belly Trash and Recycling Bins have been added at the Tait Road trailhead. Please remember to follow the same recycling guidelines when placing items in these recycling containers. The custom-designed signage on the bins provide guidance on what can go in each bin, and there are QR codes for those who want more information.

Recycling Tips for Residents

Where does your recycling go after it is picked up from your curb? Recycling is hauled to the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) in Shelton, CT where items are sorted by material, bailed, and converted to reusable materials for manufacturing. Any recycling load that arrives at the MRF with 10% or more of unacceptable items is considered contaminated and assigned a fee to the town, creating a financial burden to taxpayers.  

What is contamination?   

• Items that are not accepted for recycling such as styrofoam, plastic bags, items smaller than 2 inches, loose caps and lids, batteries
• Bagged items
• Dirty items that contain food or other organic material
• Fabric and textiles
• Tanglers such as plastic bags, garden hoses, cords, and hangers

What can I do as a Trumbull resident to reduce recycling contamination?

• Recycle accepted items only by following the “What’s In, What’s Out Trumbull” guidelines. The town website has a flyer for reference that can be downloaded and printed.  https://www.trumbull-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1017/Trumbull-Recycling-Flyer-PDF
• Place loose items only in the bin, DO NOT BAG your items or the entire bag will be discarded and deemed contamination.
• Empty and rinse your items.
• Empty and collapse all cardboard boxes for maximizing space and proper machine sorting.

Here is a quick overview of what is accepted in your curbside collection bin by material:

PLASTIC: Bottles with or without caps, jugs, and containers such as produce clamshells. Not all plastic is accepted. Do not follow the number in the triangle recycling symbol as this only indicates the plastic composition.

METAL: Food and beverage containers and cans, aluminum foil and foil products.  

GLASS: Non-redeemable glass bottles and jars with caps, corks, and lids removed. Don’t forget that glass can also be dropped off at the Transfer Station for a cost savings to taxpayers.

PAPER: Flattened, dry, and clean cardboard, beverage cartons with caps on, newspaper, magazines, and food box packages.

Some items do not belong in your curbside recycling, but CAN be recycled via alternative programs including textiles, electronics, plastic film, and other Beyond the Bin programs. For more information, visit the newly updated recycling programs page on the town website: www.trumbull-ct.gov/1223/Recycling-Programs

IF IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT: Wish-cycling, the act of placing items that can’t be recycled in your curbside bin in hope they will be recycled, which leads to increased costs to taxpayers for recycling. Recycling is required by law in Connecticut so let’s all do our part to recycle right. 

Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt

The Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt is back! Please join us for this fun community event. Registration is required and will open on February 2, 2026. Children, ages 0-9, should bring their own baskets to hunt for prize-filled eggs & the Easter Bunny will make an appearance. 

Donations will be collected for the Trumbull Food Pantry so please consider bringing a non-perishable item to help our neighbors in need.

Event Details

Trumbull residents. Ages 0-9. Registration is required.

Location: Indian Ledge Park, Turf Field & Amphitheatre Field

Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11:00 AM 

Olmo Bagels Food Truck: Hot sandwiches, bagels with schmear, breakfast meats and a cold vegan option.

Brewberry Coffee Truck: Columbian drip coffee, smooth cold brew, hot chocolate & all natural juices.

Registration

This free-of-charge event is for children 9 years old and under. Registration is required:  www.trumbull-ct.gov/recreationprograms

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