There was a lot of participation and interest in the Bethel Board of Finance public hearing held this week on the proposed budget.  The virtual meeting was held in place of the annual town meeting due to restriictions on gathering size.  The Board has also been authorized by the Governor to act as the voting body on the budget, instead of the town holding a referendum.  More than 200 people attended the virtual public hearing, nad more sent letters to the Board.  The propsed spending incrase of 2.27 percent would result in a .98 percent tax rate increase.  The proposed budget includes about $48 million for the Board of Ed and $31.8 million on the municipal side.  A virtual special meeting is bieng held at 7 o'clock tonight to discuss and likely approve the budget. Another meeting is scheduled for 3pm tomorrow if more time is needed.