Tropical Storm Isaias Update

August 5^th, 2020

Dear Fellow Townspeople,

Please be advised that I have declared a State of Emergency for the Town of Salem due to Tropical Storm Isaias.  This is in addition to the ongoing State of Emergency due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

It is important to declare a State of Emergency as this allows us to lessen the threat to the lives, health and safety of our residents. Declaring a State of Emergency will also provide the municipal CEO and Emergency Management team a process for State and Federal Aid if it becomes available.

This has been a significant Storm Event. The Salem Emergency Operation Center was opened at 12 noon on Tuesday August 4th and remained open throughout the duration of the Storm Event.

Public Works Crews and Emergency Responders were on duty throughout the duration of the Storm Event.  Our Tree Subcontractor was on call and needed.  We are thankful for all involved as they worked diligently to remove trees and branches that had come down during the Storm.

Due to the impact to the State of Connecticut, Eversource has been slow to respond to blocked roads with wires down. This is quite frustrating as Eversource considers clearing a blocked road with wires down their highest priority!

We have been in contact with Eversource many times last night and again early this morning to have these blocked roads cleared for the safety of our residents.

Due to the large amount of branches and debris caused by the Storm, we are opening a brush pile at Salem Community Park (89 Norwich Road) for residents to bring their branches and brush.

The Transfer Station is open regular hours today for your trash and recyclables. There is no power at the Transfer Station. Please observe Gary’s directions on what bin to place your trash as the compactors will not be in use today.

Please check on neighbors that may be living alone or in need of assistance.

Respectfully,

Kevin T Lyden

First Selectman