SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $650,000 IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT EAST LYME, WATERFORD

Posted on December 15, 2023March 11, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT
December 15, 2023 Joe O’Leary 508-479-4969

SENATOR MARX WELCOMES $650,000 IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT EAST LYME, WATERFORD

Funds will support Camp Harkness in Waterford, dam repairs in East Lyme

Today, State Senator Martha Marx (D-New London) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $650,000 to be released to support projects at Camp Harkness in Waterford and dam repairs and projects in East Lyme.

“It’s encouraging to know our communities are receiving this important support for the state for important projects,” said Sen. Marx. “Camp Harkness is a vital resource for individuals with disabilities around our state and these repairs will make sure those visiting can enjoy it safely and with a new playscape ready to weather shoreline elements. Additionally, repairs to our dams will keep watersheds and local water resources safer and more accessible. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

The State Bond Commission today approved the release of $500,000 to finance renovations and improvements at Camp Harkness in Waterford to support the installation of a new occupational playscape, safety improvements and code compliance. The playscape will be constructed of materials designed to resist the corrosion that occurs over time at an oceanfront park. Additional sitework will include walls, fencing, planting and walkways.

Camp Harkness is a state park dedicated for exclusive use by citizens with disabilities, accompanied by families and friends. It is state-owned and managed by the Department of Developmental Services.

Another $150,000 will be allocated to support dam repairs at Power Lake and Pattagansett Lake in East Lyme, with each project costing $75,000.

SENATOR MAHER WELCOMES $9.475 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT STAMFORD HOUSING REHAB AND ROAD SAFETY, NEW CANAAN PLAYHOUSE THEATER, RIDGEFIELD ART MUSEUM

Posted on December 15, 2023March 11, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT
December 15, 2023 Joe O’Leary 508-479-4969

SENATOR MAHER WELCOMES $9.475 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT STAMFORD HOUSING REHAB AND ROAD SAFETY, NEW CANAAN PLAYHOUSE THEATER, RIDGEFIELD ART MUSEUM

Today, State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $9.475 million in grant funding for the 26^th Senate District that will support local organizations and communities including rehabilitation of Stamford’s Parkside Gables community, the New Canaan Playhouse Theater, Stamford intersections and sidewalks and the Aldrich Art Museum in Ridgefield.

“This local support will play such a valuable role in aiding housing, transportation and the arts throughout the 26^th Senate District,” said Sen. Maher. “From local affordable housing receiving valuable upgrades to local arts organizations like the Playhouse and the Aldrich experiencing new upgrades, to say nothing of improved safety on roads throughout Stamford, this funding will be transformative over time. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for investing in our communities.”

The State Bond Commission today approved the release of $4 million to provide a loan assisting with rehabilitation of Parkside Gables in Stamford, a 69-unit property that serves families earning up to 60% of the area’s median income. The project will include new windows and doors to support energy efficiency, upgrades to building systems, interior improvements like painting and new flooring and exterior improvements such as roof replacement and sidewalk upgrades.

An additional $2 million will be released for renovations and improvements to the Playhouse theater in New Canaan. The theater, which was built 100 years ago, needs up to $7.9 million in renovations, with needed work including a new HVAC system, structural work to the property and a third floor to house the HVAC system.

In Stamford, another $2 million in grant funds will lead to the construction of a raised intersection at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Richmond Hill Avenue with further improvements such as pedestrian refuge islands and pedestrian ramps, while a separate grant of $1 million will support construction of new sidewalks along Long Ridge Road, new crosswalks, new bus shelters and new pedestrian ramps.

Ridgefield’s Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will receive $475,000 in grant funding to redevelop its sculpture garden. The museum seeks to make its campus united by matching its outdoor sculpture garden with the modern amenities offered by its museum building, which was improved in 2004.

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STATE GIVES FINAL APPROVAL TO RELEASE FUNDS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AT HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Posted on December 15, 2023March 12, 2024 by Devin James

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT
December 15, 2023 Garnet McLaughlin
860-304-2319

STATE GIVES FINAL APPROVAL TO RELEASE FUNDS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AT HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Senators Slap and Anwar, introducers of the program, say the need for funds is tragic, but urgent.

HARTFORD, CT – Today, the State Bond Commission gave final approval to release another $5 million in funds to improve security at houses of worship and eligible nonprofit organizations that are at heightened risk of being the target of a hate crime or violent act. State Senators Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) and Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) welcome this release of funding, as they led the initiative to create this grant program in 2019, and have been strong advocates for increasing protections in recent years amid a rise of hate crimes and violent incidents in houses of worship. To read more on the grant program and the need for this funding, please click here.

“At this time of increased hate speech, antisemitism and Islamophobia it’s critical that we help protect our houses of worship,” said State Sen. Derek Slap. “No one should be afraid to attend services and this funding will go directly to harden infrastructure and improve security. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for putting this important funding on the agenda.”

“It is relieving, especially in times of heightened tensions and increased reports of antisemitism and Islamophobia, that this funding will continue to protect and support houses of worship across our state,” said State Sen. Saud Anwar. “Everyone should be free to practice their religion without interference or threat and this funding will make our faith communities safer. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their support.”

“No one should be put in danger while attending a place of worship or non-profit,” said State Rep. Jillian Gilchrest. “It is beyond troubling that hateful incidents and threats are on the rise. I am grateful that additional security funding is being made available to help these organizations.”

“The Jewish community is thankful we live in a state that understands its role in public safety,” said Michael Bloom, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut. “Thank you Senator Slap, Senator Anwar and Governor Lamont for releasing these dollars which are crucial because of the rise of Jew hatred we are seeing.”

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $1.445 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT HADDAM LIBRARY, WESTBROOK NONPROFIT, LOCAL DAMS

Posted on December 15, 2023March 12, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969

December 15, 2023

SENATOR NEEDLEMAN WELCOMES $1.445 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT HADDAM LIBRARY, WESTBROOK NONPROFIT, LOCAL DAMS

Funds will support Brainerd Memorial Library, Vista Life Innovations

Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $1.445 million in state funding to be released, with funding supporting projects including repairs and restoration of the Brainerd Memorial Library, construction of a new building for Westbrook nonprofit Vista Life Innovations and repairs to dams in East Haddam and Portland.

“This local support from state leaders will play a vital role in supporting our communities,” said Sen. Needleman. “Support for valuable resources including Vista Life, which aids families from around the state, and Brainerd Library, which benefits the Haddam community, will provide great new opportunities for residents for years to come. Additionally, repairs to local dams will keep our local watersheds and bodies of water operating for decades to come. I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”

The State Bond Commission today approved the release of $500,000 for a grant supporting the construction of a new building for Vista Life Innovations in Westbrook. Vista Life Innovations is a nonprofit training program serving individuals with disabilities such as developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders and brain injuries. The program provides hands-on training in community settings to support individuals with disabilities, allowing them to become fully engaged members of the community.

An additional $380,000 in grant funds will go to the Brainerd Memorial Library in Haddam for repairs and restoration of the library, a redesign of the Children’s Room, new glass enclosed meeting rooms and an updated circulation desk. The project, which will cost a total of $1.35 million, has $970,000 in additional funding from other sources.

Another $565,000 in funds will support dam repairs throughout the region, including $450,000 for Pickerel Lake in East Haddam, $75,000 for Gillette Castle Lower Pond in East Haddam and $40,000 for Great Hill Pond in Portland.

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Senator Moore Welcomes State Bonding for Projects in Trumbull

Posted on December 15, 2023March 12, 2024 by Devin James

Senator Moore Welcomes State Bonding for Projects in Trumbull

Today, state Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) is welcoming over 1.3 million dollars in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Trumbull. Funds will be allocated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Connecticut and repairs to Edison Road in Trumbull.

“This funding is not only an investment into projects that need to be taken care of to enhance Trumbull, but will also help turn dreams into a reality,” said Sen. Moore. “The Make-A-Wish Foundation deserves funding for all the great work they do to help children’s dreams come true. And with each dollar invested in repairing our roads, it creates a safer environment for our community. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving this funding.”

Under the Bonding Agenda, $500,000 will be used to renovate and improve the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s headquarters in Trumbull. The funds will be used to improve the building used by critically ill children and their families as they receive a chance to enjoy their childhoods and see their wishes come true.

The town of Trumbull will also receive $820,000 for critical infrastructure repairs to culverts along Edison Road.

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Senator Gaston Attends Gun Violence Prevention Discussion at White House

Posted on December 14, 2023March 8, 2024 by Devin James

Senator Gaston Attends Gun Violence Prevention Discussion at White House

This week, Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport) attended an invitation-only discussion on gun violence prevention. Senator Gaston, invited by President Biden and VP Kamala Harris, spent Wednesday with other legislators from across the country sharing practices and innovative strategies preventing gun violence.

Senator Gaston discussed Bill 6667 passed during the 2023 legislative session, which bans the open carry of firearms and strengthens rules for gun storage and reporting stolen firearms. It also expands a ban on AR-15s and other so-called assault weapons passed in 1993 and updated in 2013.

“It was an honor to receive an invitation to the White House following my work on progressive public safety legislation in Connecticut,” said Senator Gaston. “It was informative and of great value to listen to other leaders discuss gun violence prevention, emergency response standards, and various strategies on working to eliminate gun violence. Being able to address the issue of urban gun violence brings a stronger awareness to the issue that is often caused by systemic racism.”

Senator Gaston discussed research that shows states such as Connecticut, with some of the strongest gun safety laws, have the lowest rates of suicides and murders by firearms. The majority of gun deaths are by suicide.

Senator Gaston also addressed the issue of urban gun violence, which could be a byproduct of systemic racism that often gets undercut by the poverty argument, or folks belonging to communities that get labeled criminal. Sen. Gaston said, “we know there is a correlation between poverty and crime so we need to invest in more diversion programs, raise awareness to increase public safety, and adequately fund trauma informed therapeutic programs to disrupt urban gun violence in communities needing it the most.”

This epidemic violence visited upon these communities creates generational trauma for both victims and the families of perpetrators, especially if they continuously have to live amongst each other because there’s literally no way out.

During the 2024 legislative session, Senator Gaston would like to impose an excise tax on the purchases of all guns and use the revenue to fund sustainable community-based violence prevention programs, especially in hard to reach communities to drive down crime.

State Senator Ceci Maher Releases Statement Following Gov. Lamont’s Nomination Of Jodi Hill-Lilly To Serve As DCF Commissioner

Posted on December 13, 2023March 11, 2024 by Devin James

December 13, 2023

State Senator Ceci Maher Releases Statement Following Gov. Lamont’s Nomination Of Jodi Hill-Lilly To Serve As DCF Commissioner

Today, State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton), Senate Chair of the Committee on Children, issued the following statement following Governor Lamont’s nomination of Jodi Hill-Lilly to serve as commissioner of the Department of Children and Families beginning in 2024, after current Commissioner Vannessa Dorantes announced she will pursue new opportunities in the new year:

“With her 35 years of experience working in the Department of Children and Families, including in prominent leadership roles, I look forward to working with Jodi Hill-Lilly beginning next year, as I know she has the knowledge and skillset to lead. Her extensive career working for the benefit of children and families from hands-on experience to oversight and management provides her with the strength and talent she needs to succeed in this role. I’d also like to thank Commissioner Dorantes for her decades of dedication toward our state, her deep understanding of the basic tenets of social work and care for children, and the thousands of families she has aided over the years. Both Vannessa and Jodi are examples of the best our state can offer and their public service has made Connecticut better for their hard work.”

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SEN. FLEXER WELCOMES STATE BONDING FOR KILLINGLY PARK AND THOMPSON PLAYGROUND

Posted on December 8, 2023May 22, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, December 8, 2023

SEN. FLEXER WELCOMES STATE BONDING FOR KILLINGLY PARK AND THOMPSON PLAYGROUND

State Senator Mae Flexer today announced that the State Bond Commission is poised to approve nearly $300,000 in state bonding for public projects in Killingly and Thompson when it meets December 15 in the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

The State Bond Commission agenda includes a $210,000 state grant for improvements to the 53-acre Owen Bell Park in Killingly, which features a track and trails for running and walking, playground equipment for children, basketball and tennis courts, a skateboard park, ball fields, and picnic areas.

Killingly Town Manager Mary Calorio said the state funds will be combined with other funds to erect a park pavilion, build a toddler-sized splash pad, dredge the park pond, and erect various shade structures to sheild families from the summer sun.

“We’re super-grateful to Senator Flexer for this. I started working with Mae on this funding about a year ago,” Calorio said. “To make all of these investments as a small town, it’s difficult. We’re so happy about our partnership with the state.”

The bonding agenda also includes $80,000 to create an ADA-compliant playground at the Mary R. Fisher Elementary School in Thompson, which is home to about 400 students.

“Both of these bond agenda items are investments in the people of Killingly and Thompson that I have discussed with local officials and lobbied for at the state level,” Sen. Flexer said. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their attention to eastern Connecticut and the recognition that these projects will have on the quality of life for the families who enjoy life in our smaller towns.”

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STATE SLATED TO RELEASE FUNDS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AT HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Posted on December 8, 2023March 12, 2024 by Devin James

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT

December 8, 2023 Garnet McLaughlin 860-304-2319

STATE SLATED TO RELEASE FUNDS TO IMPROVE SECURITY AT HOUSES OF WORSHIP

Senators Slap and Anwar, introducers of the program, say the need for funds is tragic, but urgent.

HARTFORD, CT – Houses of worship and eligible nonprofit organizations at heightened risk of being the target of a hate crime or violent act will soon have access to $5 million in funds to improve security, according to the State Bond Commission’s December 15 agenda. State Senators Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) and Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) highlighted the scheduled release of funding, as they have been strong advocates for increasing protections in recent years amid a rise of hate crimes and violent incidents in houses of worship.

In 2019, Sen. Slap and Sen. Anwar introduced the original bill which created the grant program through which this funding will be dispersed through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). Last year, the state released $5 million for this program and over 200 institutions applied for the funding. About 100 institutions were awarded funding, leaving 100 institutions who did not receive grant funding.

In the Bond Commission’s agenda, $5 million in funds are set to be released pending approval on December 15. These funds, financing the Nonprofit Organization Security Infrastructure Competitive Grant Program, include investments and grants-in-aid to eligible nonprofit organizations exempt from taxation and at heightened risk of violence. These organizations can receive up to $50,000 in grant funding to reinforce properties, including installation of ballistic glass, solid core doors, double door access, electronic locks, remote locks, buzzer systems, cameras, strong vestibules and other security metrics.

Antisemitism and acts of hate have been on the rise. Antisemitic incidents in the U.S. reached an all-time high in 2022 with a total of 3,697 incidents of assault, harassment and vandalism tracked by the ADL’s (Anti-Defamation League) Audit of Antisemitic Incidents. This represents the largest number of incidents against Jews in the U.S., recorded by ADL since 1979. Since the October 7th attacks on Israeli civilians, the ADL has recorded a significant spike in antisemitic incidents across the United States. From Oct. 7-23, 2023, ADL recorded a total of 312 antisemitic incidents. By comparison, during the same period in 2022, ADL received preliminary reports of 64 incidents. Preliminary data from ADL Center on Extremism indicates that reported incidents of harassment, vandalism and assault increased by 388 percent over the same period last year.

HADDAM SELECTED TO JOIN MAIN STREET ACCELERATOR PROGRAM TO SUPPORT VILLAGE CENTERS

Posted on December 5, 2023March 12, 2024 by Devin James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joe O’Leary | Joe.OLeary@cga.ct.gov | 508-479-4969

December 5, 2023

HADDAM SELECTED TO JOIN MAIN STREET ACCELERATOR PROGRAM TO SUPPORT VILLAGE CENTERS

Haddam was one of six communities across Connecticut chosen for the Connecticut Main Street Center’s Main Street Accelerator program, where participants will join a six-month program to learn and practice the Four Point Main Street Approach. Town leaders will join to find new ways to improve signage, mapping and visual appeal between Haddam’s two village centers.

The Four Point Main Street Approach examines economic vitality, design, organization and promotion, focusing on community transformation. It focuses on building an economic base with new investment and appeal toward entrepreneurs; designing accessible public spaces with inviting, inclusive atmospheres; building leadership and fostering community engagement; and promoting defining aspects, benefitting local businesses and drawing new visitors.

The six-month program from the Connecticut Main Street Center is designed for teams to learn how to utilize those four points to meet a challenge their communities are facing. Haddam has two village centers, Higganum Center and Haddam Center, and better visually connecting them will provide benefits in intertwining them and supporting businesses in the area.

“Our community centers are lifebloods of local economy and culture, drawing folks from around the region to enjoy their beauty,” said State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex). “Any and all work to improve Haddam’s village centers and especially their interconnectivity will play a valuable role in further benefitting and bolstering their success and support for the town as a whole.”

“This program has been in the works for nearly two years, so we’re excited for it to come to life and make an impact in downtowns and village centers like Haddam’s. The Accelerator program provides an opportunity for CMSC to guide communities to take action on challenges or projects in a group setting, and with Haddam’s team of dedicated local stakeholders, I’m excited to see what comes out of the first cohort,” said Kristen Lopez, CMSC Education & Training Director.

“With transformations underway on projects like the Higganum Cove, Scovil Hoe, and the Swing Bridge renovation with an added pedestrian sidewalk, now is the perfect time to embark on this program with CT Main Street. We are excited to develop a plan that will highlight Haddam’s unique characteristics and attractions,” said Kate Anderson, Haddam Selectwoman.

The Connecticut Main Street Center has an ongoing mission to assess, educate, convene and advocate to develop and grow Connecticut’s downtowns, village centers and mixed-use neighborhoods, supporting Main Streets everywhere.

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