Statement of Sen. Cohen on Governor Lamont’s Climate Executive Order
State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), who is Senate Chair of the Environment Committee, issued the following statement today in support of Governor Lamont’s executive order on climate initiatives:
“There are a lot of forward-looking planning and action items in the governor’s new executive order, as well as some more immediately achievable items to reduce motor vehicle emissions, reduce building greenhouse gases, recycle food waste, engage in more air monitoring, and update our stormwater drainage systems. All of those items – many of which private-sector businesses across America have been engaged in for several years – can and should be undertaken as a soon as possible in Connecticut. Both environmental advocates and the business community know that a healthy environment is good for our state and saves us money in the long-term.”
Looney, Duff, Osten Release Statements on Passing of Former Senator Edith Prague
Looney, Duff, Osten Release Statements on Passing of Former Senator Edith Prague
HARTFORD – Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven), Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), and Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) released the following statements regarding the passing of former State Senator Edith Prague:
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend and former colleague Edith Prague,” said Senator Looney and Senator Duff. “To say that Edith Prague was energetic, determined, principled and loyal would be a grave understatement. She dedicated so much of her life to the people of this state as a State Representative, a State Senator, and as Commissioner of Aging. During her time in the General Assembly, she was a relentless fighter in her advocacy for workers, for the elderly, and for her constituents. If you found yourself allied with her on an issue of passion, you were in luck. If you were on the opposite side of her, you knew you were in for a battle. But along with her passion was a profound empathy and a deep respect for others. She often served as a guiding light and voice of conscience for the Senate Democratic caucus. During contentious times she would often break the stalemate with her common sense, wit, and genuine values. We will miss her immensely. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends as they grieve the passing of such a extraordinary human being.”
“Edith Prague was a state treasure, she was a faithful crusader for working people and the elderly, and the positive impact of the public policies that Edith championed and passed into law will be felt in Connecticut for decades to come,” said Senator Osten.
Senator Kushner, Representative Gucker Applaud as Governor Lamont, State Bond Commission Place Marjorie Trail, Squantz Engine Company on December Agenda
Senator Kushner, Representative Gucker Applaud as Governor Lamont, State Bond Commission Place Marjorie Trail, Squantz Engine Company on December Agenda
Today, State Senator Julie Kushner (D-Danbury) and State Representative Kenneth Gucker (D-Danbury) applauded the State Bond Commission and Governor Ned Lamont for their placement of significant funding to support the installation of a new elevator and Americans with Disabilities Act improvements to the Squantz Engine Company, as well as to support the construction of a multi-use trail at the Margerie Reservoir, on the Commission’s December agenda. These releases will play an important role in supporting the local communities, providing new access and resources for Danbury and New Fairfield. The Bond Commission’s agenda for its Dec. 21 meeting lists $1.8 million of funding to the Town of New Fairfield for the construction of a multi-use trail at the Margerie Reservoir, with another $210,170 dedicated to the town for supporting the Squantz Engine Company.
“I am happy to see the trail get the funding it so desperately needs for I have been working on this project for the past many years,” said Rep. Gucker. “This valuable resource will provide much needed safe passive recreation as well as be a economic driver for not only Danbury, but the town of New Fairfield. I would also like to express my support for the much needed funds to help squantz fire house becoming ADA compliant. As a past volunteer firefighter myself for New Fairfield, I understand the importance of this project to the community. I especially want to thank the speaker of the house and leadership, as well as the governor for their support.”
“During the pandemic, we have experienced a significant increase in the number of people walking, running and riding bikes. I want to see this trend continue, and there’s no question that the Marjorie Trail will provide a natural link for the two communities of New Fairfield and Danbury,” said Sen. Kushner. “I am also thrilled that we are responding to the needs of some our most valued volunteers – the firefighters of the Squantz Engine Company who risk their lives to save ours. The installation of an elevator will allow the firehouse to, once again, provide a beautiful space, ADA compliant, where the community can gather. I’m so proud that our communities will receive these significant investments by the state, supporting important and meaningful projects that will benefit life for thousands. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their support.”
“I am glad that the state can partner with Danbury and New Fairfield on the release of funding to support these two projects,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “The Margerie Reservoir is among the most gorgeous natural resources in Connecticut, and this multi-use trail will enhance the recreational opportunities for everyone in the area. Additionally, the ADA upgrades at the Squantz Engine Company will help ensure that all residents have access to community events that are held at this facility.”
The trail funding will support a development along the 270-acre Margerie Reservoir in New Fairfield, according to the Danbury News-Times, with hopes that it would provide Danbury and New Fairfield residents with new recreational resources. The Engine Company’s funds would support its addition of an elevator; currently, while the Engine Company’s second floor hosts a large hall that could be used for community events, the hall is only accessible by a staircase. The elevator would allow for the building to be ADA-compliant.
Gov. Lamont and Ridgefield Legislators Announce New Funding for Boys & Girls Club
Gov. Lamont and Ridgefield Legislators Announce New Funding for Boys & Girls Club
Six months ago, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) and State Representatives Aimee Berger-Girvalo (D-Ridgefield) and Kenneth Gucker (D-Ridgefield) brought Governor Ned Lamont to the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield to see firsthand the need for expanded and improved facilities. This week, Lamont included $2 million for the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield on the agenda of the State Bond Commission. The funding, set to be approved and released upon the Bond Commission’s scheduled December 21 meeting, will be “life-changing,” according to Boys & Girls Club Chief Executive Officer Mike Flynn.
“The first time I toured the Boys & Girls Club, I was blown away by the impact it has on students of all ages,” said Sen. Haskell. “Having spent time with these young people and their mentors at the club, I’ve seen firsthand how this local treasure helps young people grow into responsible, compassionate and confident adults. With this state funding, the club will have the capacity to change the lives of even more young people from Ridgefield and surrounding communities. Rep. Berger-Girvalo and I have been talking up this club for more than a year at the State Capitol, and I’m so proud that the advocacy has paid off.”
“I had always heard such terrific things about the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield, but I didn’t truly understand the impact this place has on the young people of our community until I toured the facilities and took the opportunity to speak with the kids about what BGRC means to them,” said Rep. Berger-Girvalo. “I am so excited for this funding and for the updated and expanded resources it will provide for these kids, the community at large, and the Club’s ability to grow and offer more services. I want to thank Gov. Lamont and the Bond Commission for recognizing our request for funding and seeing it through.”
“I am super excited to see the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield get the long sought support it so desperately needs,” said Rep. Gucker. “When I toured their location last summer, we learned of the many great services they provide for the community, which explained why they were bursting at the seams. This new infusion from the state will help them expand and continue to support the greater Ridgefield area for many years to come. I also want to thank the Speaker and leadership as well as the Governor for making this all possible.”
“Every child should have access to resources that support their growth and development, and that is why I am proud the state is able to partner with the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield to expand its Teen Center and ensure that it can continue providing top-quality services to the community for many years to come,” said Governor Ned Lamont.
“The Boys & Girls Club is so vital to the Greater Ridgefield Community and this funding is an investment into our future,” said CEO Flynn. “We have raised considerable money privately over the last several years and this bonding money from the state puts us closer to the finish line of our fundraising goal. We are now in a position to finish the campaign through the community giving phase, which will begin in January. This project has been a vision of ours for almost 5 years, and the bonding money makes this a dream come true. We simply cannot thank our state and local leadership enough for all they did to make this possible. On behalf of our Board of Directors, and most importantly our Club kids, I want to give a very special thank you to Governor Ned Lamont, State Senator Will Haskell, State Representative Aimee Berger- Giravalo and Ridgefield First Selectman Rudy Marconi. Specifically, Senator Haskell, State Representative Berger-Giravalo, and First Selectman Marconi, who have been true advocates in Hartford for the Club and this funding for the past two years. They are true champions for youth, and for Ridgefield, and we are incredibly grateful for their unwavering support and commitment – it’s truly commendable.”
In May, the Ridgefield Press reported that the expansion has a $6.5 million total cost, dedicated to serving the club’s users aged sixth- to 12th-grade. Funding would support the development of a new teen center with a multipurpose space and technology café, additionally allowing the Club to repurpose existing space for new programs and educational activities to serve more members. The $2 million in funding plays a key role to ensure these newfound resources will soon aid current and future users of the club.
Senator Marilyn Moore Supports Bonding Awarded to Projects in Trumbull and Bridgeport
Senator Marilyn Moore Supports Bonding Awarded to Projects in Trumbull and Bridgeport
Today, state Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport), Chair of the Bonding Committee, enthusiastically supports bonding awarded to projects in Trumbull and Bridgeport. Senator Moore originally requested funding for Make-A-Wish in Trumbull, for the Westfield Trumbull Mall in Trumbull, and for the Klein Memorial Auditorium in Bridgeport and is excited to learn all three have been approved.
“I appreciate Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for taking the time to review and approve my request for funding that I feel is strongly needed for Trumbull and Bridgeport,” said Sen. Moore. “The Make-A-Wish Foundation deserves funding for all the great work they do to help children’s dreams come true. The Klein Memorial Auditorium hosts dozens of events throughout the year and should be a wonderful and up-to-date place for the community to spend time in. And, the Westfield Trumbull Mall receiving funding will help provide improvements to a huge shopping plaza that employs over 3,000 folks from Bridgeport, Trumbull, and the surrounding areas.”
“I am glad that we are able to get this state funding approved and support these important projects in Trumbull and Bridgeport,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “The Make-A-Wish Foundation provides an incredible service to children throughout the region, and this Trumbull facility will enable the organization to continue the services they provide. In addition, this allocation for the Klein Memorial Auditorium will help keep this historic venue, which provides an invaluable community service to so many in Bridgeport, in good repair so that it can continue operating for many years to come.”
Under the Bonding Agenda, $1 million will be used to improve the Make-A-Wish Foundation in Trumbull. The funding will be used to renovate a previously purchased building that will be used by critically ill children and their families as they receive a chance to enjoy their childhoods and see their wishes come true.
Trumbull will also receive $200,000 to do a study on the Westfield Trumbull Mall. This funding will be used to reinvent the Westfield Trumbull Mall property.
Bridgeport will receive $300,000 for the Klein Memorial Auditorium to finish work that originally began with a 2016 grant from the state. In April, the State Bond Committee approved $300,000 for the Klein Memorial Auditorium to support the installation of an elevator, technology improvements and code-required improvements. The addition of these funds will help to continue the work being done, install a new restroom, and improve upon the progress that is being made.
The Bond Agenda is set to be approved next Tuesday, December 21.
Sen. Cabrera, Reps. Rochelle, Welander, Klarides-Ditria Praise Inclusion of Funding for TEAM’s Century Plaza on State Bond Commission Agenda
Sen. Cabrera, Reps. Rochelle, Welander, Klarides-Ditria Praise Inclusion of Funding
for TEAM’s Century Plaza on State Bond Commission Agenda
HARTFORD, CT – Today, state Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden) and state Representatives Kara Rochelle (D-Ansonia/Derby), Mary Welander (D-Orange, Woodbridge, Derby), Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-Beacon Falls, Derby, Seymour) applaud the inclusion of $200,000 on the Connecticut State Bond Commission’s December 21 meeting agenda. The funding will be used to replace an elevator and windows at Century Plaza, 30 Elizabeth St., Derby. Century Plaza is TEAM, Inc.’s headquarters and houses several other nonprofit organizations for the Naugatuck Valley and surrounding region.
“I am elated to see the hard work put forth by my colleagues in the delegation and I to secure these funds for TEAM move forward,” said Sen. Cabrera. “This investment not only serves a practical purpose, but also shows our commitment to prioritizing the well-being of both young people and the elderly through support of this amazing non-for-profit organization. We know, as we continue to recover from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, support for TEAM and the human services they provide are essential to the prosperity and health of our community.”
“These funds, if approved, will help to ensure that thousands of residents in our community can more easily access a building that provides vital support and services to the children, families, and seniors of our community. I am proud to advance this project and am grateful to Sen. Cabrera, and Representatives Welander and Klarides-Ditria for being strong partners in this effort that will have a lasting impact,” said Rep. Rochelle. “I want to thank the governor and members of the State Bond Commission for including this project on the commission’s next meeting agenda. This important project will help enhance the building’s safety, ensuring residents can access the nonprofits that touch so many lives in our community.”
“At a time when being able to connect residents to resources is more important than ever, I am incredibly grateful for the allocation of these funds that will make necessary improvements to create a safer, more accessible space,” Rep. Welander said. “This will help residents and families throughout the area lead more successful lives, leading to more successful communities. I would like to sincerely thank the Governor and the Bond Commission for their support of the district in this effort.
“Smart, long term investments like these that increase accessibility while also improving physical infrastructure will bring substantial dividends back to our community through a safer, more welcoming environment for all of our citizens. I’m pleased these funds are being used to bolster such a wonderful community resource and I want to thank my colleagues on the delegation for working tirelessly to get this money on the Commission’s agenda,” Rep. Klarides-Ditria said.
“This regional project further improves and protects State and local investments in the overall wellbeing of our Valley region – these bond-funded structural improvements is a lifeline to our facility and its robust presence of work that is addressing health & wellness, social, economic, and environmental wellbeing throughout our local communities. Thank you to our local delegation for leveraging critical resources to our Valley region that will make a meaningful difference for thousands of individuals turning to TEAM and many other supportive human services at 30 Elizabeth Street, Derby,” said David Morgan, CEO of TEAM, Inc.
The elevator at the 4-story Century Plaza, co-owned and operated by TEAM, Inc. and BHCare’s Parent Child Resource Center, is over 40 years old and is in critical need of replacement. Additionally, the building’s second-floor windows have deteriorated, resulting in significant heat loss. Replacing the elevator and windows will help make the building more energy efficient and more accessible for visitors. The Derby Housing Authority and outreach workers for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program also have offices in Century Plaza.
TEAM, Inc. is the regional Community Action Agency serving the Lower Naugatuck Valley. It provides support services to over 11,000 individuals throughout its region of coverage, which includes Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Milford, Naugatuck, Orange, Oxford, Seymour, Shelton, Waterbury, and Woodbridge. TEAM provides services such as home heating assistance, a diaper bank, meals on wheels, job training assistance, helps residents secure SNAP and childcare benefits, and more.
Senator Haskell, Governor Lamont, Congressman Himes Host Roundtable on ‘Voice 4 Change’ Program at Staples High School
Senator Haskell, Governor Lamont, Congressman Himes Host Roundtable on ‘Voice 4 Change’ Program at Staples High School
Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) returned to Staples High School, his alma matter, to lead a conversation about the Voice 4 Change program and promote student involvement in government. Senator Haskell, Governor Ned Lamont, U.S. Congressman Jim Himes, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg (D-Westport), Westport First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker and officials from the Connecticut State Department of Education all participated in the conversation with nearly 100 Staples students. Students pitched a variety of ideas, including initiatives to improve mental health, install more solar panels, bolster school security and provide free menstrual products for students.
The roundtable centered on the Voice4Change Program, announced in November by Governor Lamont. This program empowers students at 77 high schools in Connecticut, including Staples High School, to propose a $20,000 project that would improve their school. In March, each school will vote on the proposals to select the winning idea. Funding comes from the American Rescue Plan, and Connecticut has made $1.5 million available for this first-in-the-nation concept. The proposals must be centered around at least one topic including learning acceleration and student enrichment; family and community connections; social, emotional and mental health; strategic use of technology; and/or building safe, healthy schools.
“When our coffers have a bit more money than we expected, most policymakers would think, ‘we know how to spend this money. We know what students need. We know what’s best.’ Well, not always,” said Sen. Haskell. “I’m so proud that here in Connecticut, we’ve decided to empower the folks who are closest to the classroom to make decisions about how we can improve public education. As we saw today, students know how to improve their school because they walk these hallways every day. It was so inspiring to hear just a few of the exceptional ideas that are sure to come out of this program. I graduated from Staples seven years ago, and to come back this morning in an effort to promote youth engagement, with the Governor and Congressman alongside me, was such an honor.”
“This money comes out of the federal American Rescue Plan, which was part of the larger, substantial effort to address the COVID pandemic,” said Congressman Himes. “A global pandemic can’t be solved in Westport, Connecticut or the United States. It’s a problem requiring a global response. The federal government, where I work, can understand larger scale, but what it can’t do is address needs of a specific community. The diversity of the challenges in different communities are massive, and we can only effectively address such issues if the state and local communities are closely involved in deciding how money gets allocated. In the next few months, a small portion of funding from the American Rescue Plan Act will find its way to this community for students to decide how to put it to work.”
“What we love about this program is it shows we really value what you have to say, your opinions and your ideas,” said Governor Lamont to the students. “Think of what we can do across the country with these innovations and these ideas! This is also a way of saying you’re never too young to be involved, and we always value what you have to say. Government can be a little old, so we need youth involvement! We need your point of view. You can get some of your best ideas by listening. Connecticut has always been an ideas factory for the greatest entrepreneurs, so why shouldn’t we give students and communities such an opportunity to be heard?”
Monday’s roundtable saw several Staples High School students discuss ideas and proposals they plan to submit to use the $20,000 in funding. Ideas mentioned included a “charity fair,” where students could learn more about local organizations to volunteer and support; availability of free menstrual products for members of the school community; efforts to improve locker rooms for female athletes; focus on student mental health and therapy; and school safety. Several students cited recent school shootings in other states, and threats of potential violence in neighboring school communities, having prompted safety and security-related proposals.
New Britain Delegation Announces $6 Million to Support Facility Renovation that will House Programs Assisting People with Long-Term Health Issues
New Britain Delegation Announces $6 Million to Support Facility Renovation that will House Programs Assisting People with Long-Term Health Issues
State Senator Rick Lopes, state Representatives Robert Sanchez, Manny Sanchez, and Peter Tercyak, all representing New Britain, welcomed the approval of $6 million by Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission to support Community Mental Health Affiliates’ (CMHA) work to renovate a new facility to house in the future two residential programs assisting people with long-term health issues. The funding will go toward covering costs for removing asbestos and mold that was discovered when CMHA was renovating the facility.
The facility to be renamed “Kensington Gardens,” located at 66 Clinic Drive in New Britain, will be the future site of two residential programs serving about three dozen individuals with chronic medical or mental health issues.
“For years, Community Mental Health Affiliates has been a lifeline for people struggling with their mental health and other health challenges. Through this funding, CMHA can continue to provide critical services to their clients in an environment that is spacious and tailored to their clients’ needs,” said Sen. Lopes. “I am thankful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for recognizing the many benefits that CMHA’s facility renovation will bring.”
“I wholeheartedly support the good work of Community Mental Health Affiliates as many lives have been enriched by their services delivered through a dedicated and committed staff,” Rep. Robert Sanchez said. “I thank Governor Lamont for this funding and look forward to the enhanced facilities.”
“The need for adequate mental health services is at an all-time high across our state and country. Community Mental Health Affiliates have been an indispensable part of our community for many years lending their services for those that need help,” Rep. Manny Sanchez said. “This funding will go a long way to improving services and I thank Governor Lamont for including this important item on the agenda.”
“I am a big fan of Community Mental Health Affiliates. I’m familiar with their services, having previously been a homecare nurse for a few of their folks,” said Rep. Tercyak. “I’ll always support a CMHA housing initiative because I’ve seen the good that they do.”
“Community Mental Health Affiliates in New Britain provides an invaluable service to so many people in the region. Through this state funding, we can help ensure that this nonprofit organization has a safe place to operate and they can continue serving the community,” said Governor Lamont.
CMHA is a leading provider of integrated health and behavioral health care for youth, adults, and families. For over two decades, the provider has given 24/7 residential care to some of Connecticut’s most vulnerable individuals. CMHA offers numerous supports for individuals in their care or seeking their assistance including employment services, the Team Time Social Club, outpatient and in-home service programs, and residential programs. Individuals care learn more about the services available through CMHA by visiting their website.
State Senator Matt Lesser Offers Congratulations to Natalie Braswell Who Is Set to Be Named Comptroller
State Senator Matt Lesser Offers Congratulations to Natalie Braswell Who Is Set to Be Named Comptroller
This morning, state Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) offers a congratulations to Natalie Braswell who is set to be named comptroller.
“As Chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, I look forward to working closely with Comptroller Braswell in the upcoming legislative session,” said Lesser. “Comptroller Braswell is extremely well-qualified and I know she will do an excellent job. Natalie is making history as the first woman of color to serve in this interim role and I am excited for the opportunity to work alongside her. No one can fully replace Kevin Lembo but I have confidence in Governor Lamont’s selection.”
Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff Releases Statement Following Arrest of Juvenile Who Allegedly Made Threats to Norwalk High School
Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff Releases Statement Following Arrest of Juvenile Who Allegedly Made Threats to Norwalk High School
This morning, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) is releasing a statement following the arrest made of a juvenile who allegedly made threats to Norwalk High School.
“Yesterday’s arrest will hopefully be the first step in healing for a nervous and stressed school community. The last eight days have been extremely difficult for students, parents, faculty and staff. That’s in addition to the conditions already caused by a pandemic and other issues we all face on a daily basis.
Everyone inside the Norwalk High School building should be very proud of how they conducted themselves during the multiple challenges. Students felt safe and were safe because of the way teachers and staff carried themselves and rose to the challenge often times treating them like their own children.
I want to thank Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, Superintendent Alexandra Estrella and her team, our law enforcement partners including the Norwalk Police for their diligent efforts and the governor’s office for their counsel.
I hope this ends a tumultuous chapter for everyone at Norwalk High and those who were impacted at Naramake Elementary School and Nathan Hale Middle School as well. Let’s get back to school and full time learning.”