Sen. Moore Featured on News 12
HARTFORD – State Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) was featured on News 12 recently. Watch here.
Chair of Public Safety Committee, Senator Gaston, Releases Statement on CT State Police Trooper Audit
Chair of Public Safety Committee, Senator Gaston, Releases Statement on CT State Police Trooper Audit
Today, state Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport), Chair of the Public Safety Committee and member of Connecticut’s Legislative Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, is releasing a statement following a recent presentation of an audit that found there is a high likelihood Connecticut State Police Troopers falsified thousands of traffic tickets.
“As chair of the Public Safety Committee, it is my due diligence to make sure drivers around our state are protected against unfair practices and have equal protection under the law,” said Sen. Gaston. “I will make it my mission to ensure equity and fairness for all Connecticut drivers behind the wheel. This audit presents a real challenge for our state, and my colleagues and I will work to find a solution. As we continue to conduct a thorough review of the audit, I am reaching out to community members while collaborating with law enforcement as we assess what actions will be taken from here.”
The Public Safety Committee and Judiciary Committee are set to have a meeting on July 26 to discuss and determine how to implement a future system where this will not happen in Connecticut again.
BURLINGTON LEADERS WELCOME STATE FUNDING SUPPORTING BURLINGTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
BURLINGTON LEADERS WELCOME STATE FUNDING SUPPORTING BURLINGTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Today, Burlington leaders gathered at the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department to announce and welcome funding approved in the state budget approved in June that will provide additional financial support to the fire department for the first time in more than a decade. State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford), State Representative John Piscopo (R-Burlington), Burlington First Selectman Doug Thompson and Burlington Volunteer Fire Department Chief Mike Boucher joined together today to celebrate the important support for local volunteers working to keep the community safe.
“Our first responders, especially those who volunteer to protect our communities and keep us safe, deserve not only our respect but our support. This funding ensures they will receive that support,” said Sen. Slap. “This is the first increase in stipend and per-call pay in more than a decade for these men and women. It’s an important investment in public safety.”
“I was proud to stand with the Burlington delegation in support of this funding for the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department,” said Rep. Piscopo. “Keeping a fully staffed department has been challenge, as it has been other departments and many other sectors of the economy. This investment makes positive impact on our community by immediately supporting BVFD’s critical operations.”
“The Burlington Volunteer Fire Department has served our community as our town has grown considerably,” said First Selectman Thompson. “The demand that has placed on our volunteers, in addition to training and skills needed, has made it difficult to recruit and retain volunteers. The Town and State have provided funding for the BVFD to use at their discretion to address these issues. All received an increase in per-call pay, and officer stipends were increased based on their level of involvement. We held an event in February honoring our first responders and showing our appreciation; today, we back that up with this funding, dedicated to those serving our community. I’m grateful to Senator Slap and Representative Piscopo for their aid in securing this funding.”
“We really appreciate the support of state and local representatives acknowledging the hard work the volunteer firefighters and EMTs do,” said Chief Boucher. “This funding will help us to continue to retain and recruit members and service the community.”
In the state budget approved by legislators last month, the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department received $170,000 to increase stipends for about a dozen officers. These funds will also increase the per-call pay for the entire fire department, which constitutes about 75 individuals. Prior to this funding, the department’s stipends had not been increased in more than a decade. The amount will support the fire department for the next two fiscal years, through mid-2025.
The Burlington Volunteer Fire Department has served the community for 76 years, providing mutual aid service to neighboring communities when needed.
Meriden Delegation Welcomes $2.7 Million in State Bonding to Meriden
Meriden Delegation Welcomes $2.7 Million in State Bonding to Meriden
Today, the Meriden Delegation comprised of state Senator Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden), and Representatives Michael D. Quinn (D-Meriden), Hilda E. Santiago (D-Meriden), and Jack Fazzino (D-Meriden), are welcoming $2.7 million in funding approved by the State Bond Commission for projects in Meriden. Funds will be allocated to the State Forensic Lab.
“This investment in these renovation repairs will create safer and more secure working conditions which leads to a more thorough investigation of evidence that is brought in,” said Sen. Hochadel. “Employees investigating crimes deserve to work in an environment that is up to date and code enforced. I am thankful to the State Bond Commission for their approval of these funds.”
“I want to thank Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for approving these funds to make critical repairs and renovations,” said State Rep. Jack Fazzino (D-Berlin, Cheshire, Meriden). “As part of the Meriden delegation in the legislature, I applaud the commitment to give those who protect us everything they need to do their jobs and improve our community’s quality of life.”
“I am glad to see the Bond Commission’s approval of funds coming to the lab to help them continue working on the repairs needed to keep their important work going strong,” said Rep. Hilda E. Santiago (D-Meriden). “It is always a pleasure to work together with our legislative delegation to bring more resources to Meriden.”
“I am thrilled to see additional state funding allocation has been approved to keep improving upon the remarkable forensic service offered at this facility,” said Rep. Michael D. Quinn (D-Meriden). “Many thanks to the governor and the Bond Commission for including this project on the agenda.”
Under the Bonding Agenda, $2.7 million is set to be allocated to the Forensic Lab in Meriden. $1.5 million of that is set to help with Phase 3 renovations of the building. The other $1.2 million will be used to install a new load generator which is a system used to simulate load for performing performance testing.
In 2022, the Meriden Delegation also secured additional funding for the forensic lab. $1.2 million was allocated to the lab to help clean room renovations and $1.2 was appropriated to help fund heating system installations at Mulcahy Campus in Meriden.
The Bond Agenda was recently approved this morning.
Senator James Maroney Welcomes Farm Viability Grant to Woodbridge
Senator James Maroney Welcomes Farm Viability Grant to Woodbridge
Today, state Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) is welcoming the 2023 Farm Viability Grant to Woodbridge from the Department of Agriculture. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture has awarded grants to 25 entities around Connecticut totaling over $750,000.
“The Massaro Community Farm is a Woodbridge treasure,” said Sen. Maroney. “I am thrilled to see the state recognize their value by providing them with this grant. The funding will be used so people can continue to enjoy their farms for years to come. They strive to not only create an environment encouraging others to get involved but they commit themselves to helping others through educational programs, sustainability workshops, and donations to local hunger relief agencies.”
The Massaro Community Farm in Woodbridge is receiving $49,402 in the 4-H Camp and Agricultural Science and Technology Education (ASTE) Center Infrastructure for improving educational infrastructure. These funds will help to create a 100’x 125’ livestock education area and provide livestock water access and hand-washing stations. The funds will also help with materials and supplies for agricultural programming and support the Summer Youth Employment program.
Funded projects directly respond to problems, interests, or needs in the state’s agricultural industry, specifically within the areas of urban agriculture; food supply chain; diversity, equity, and inclusion in Connecticut agriculture; and farmland access.
Senator Hochadel Supports State Bonding Approved for Cheshire Park
Senator Hochadel Supports State Bonding Approved for Cheshire Park
Today, state Senator Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden) is thrilled to welcome funding approved by the State Bond Commission for Cheshire. A total of $500,000 has been approved to be allocated to Bartlem Park South’s Great Lawn in Cheshire.
“This project will greatly benefit our community here in Cheshire,” said Sen. Jan Hochadel. “This lawn will be a nice place for residents to gather for concerts and other wonderful events that will soon take place. I am thankful to the State Bond Commission for approving this funding that will help move this project forward.”
Under the bonding agenda, $500,000 is set to be allocated for a Regional Community Arts and Entertainment Space at Bartlem Park South’s Great Lawn. This entertainment space will be added to the construction of the new park. The park was originally planned with input from town residents and officials with the assistance of professional engineers and designers. It will offer a variety of activities.
The project is expected to be completed within 24 months.
The Bond Agenda was recently approved this morning.
West Haven Delegation Supports Bonding Approved for West Haven
West Haven Delegation Supports Bonding Approved for West Haven
Today, the West Haven Delegation consisting of state Senators James Maroney and Gary Winfield, and state Representatives Charles Ferraro, Dorinda Borer and Trenee McGee are supporting state bonding approved for West Haven. Funding is set to be allocated to make public safety improvements in the city and provide upgrades to the West Haven Public Safety Building.
“This funding for West Haven will help make significant improvements to both Lake Street and Colonial Boulevard neighborhood and the Public Safety Building,” said Sen. Maroney. “Our residents and public safety officers both deserve an environment they can thrive in and feel safe with substantial upgrades. I am thankful to the State Bond Commission for approving these funds.”
“I am thrilled the state will be investing in these important initiatives and thankful for the work of Governor Lamont and my fellow legislators and their commitment to supporting West Haven,” said Sen. Gary Winfield (D-New Haven & West Haven). “By focusing on erosion prevention and resilient climate adaptation efforts, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard our community against the impacts of a changing climate. Furthermore, the significant investment at the West Haven Public Safety Building will allow for us to continue to provide a safer and more secure environment for everyone in our community.”
“I am incredibly proud of this state investment in our local infrastructure to support and protect our environment and enhance the quality of life for residents and guests of West Haven,” said Rep. Ferraro. “Thank you to the State Bond Commission for this generous grant.”
“This funding will address the erosion caused by climate change and will help West Haven take more climate resilient action,” said Rep. McGee. “I thank the West Haven delegation for their efforts in securing this funding and Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support.”
“This funding will have countless benefits for the residents of West Haven,” said Rep. Borer. “Whether it be upgrading and replacing the Police Department’s critical phone system, making safety, health and environmental enhancements for the Lake Street community, or remodeling our animal shelter, I’m thrilled and proud to see the hard work on these projects pay off. “
The City of West Haven will receive $1.25 million to address stream bed and beach restoration, erosion prevention, public safety improvements, and resilient climate adaptation efforts for the Lake Street and Colonial Boulevard neighborhood.
West Haven will also receive $880,000 for upgrades, improvements, and equipment for the West Haven Public Safety Building. This project will include communication system upgrades, road monitors, police building improvements, and defibrillators.
The Bond Agenda was recently approved this morning. The West Haven Delegation plans to hold a press conference on the Lake Street project in the near future.
SEN. COHEN, REP. CANDELORA AND LOCAL LEADERS WELCOME $3.5 MILLION FOR LAKE QUONNIPAUG DAM
SEN. COHEN, REP. CANDELORA AND LOCAL LEADERS WELCOME $3.5 MILLION FOR LAKE QUONNIPAUG DAM
GUILFORD, CT – Today, State Senator Christine Cohen, House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora and First Selectman Matt Hoey welcome $3.5 Million from the State Bond Commission for a project to fortify the Lake Quonnipaug Dam. The dam and surrounding area, including residential homes and sections of Route 77 have been subject to flooding. This project is part of the town’s Climate Adaptation and Resilient Infrastructure Program.
“The flooding at the Lake Quonnipaug Dam has been of great concern to our town and I am so pleased to see this project moving forward to prevent future flooding and road closures,” said Sen. Cohen. “I am so proud of our town’s forward-thinking approach to climate resiliency and I’m incredibly grateful to Guilford resident, Comptroller Sean Scanlon for starting this important work, as then representative, and his help in securing the funding. I appreciate Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for recognizing this as vital infrastructure and continuing to support our town’s needs.”
“This is an important, and timely, allocation for Guilford, which faces significant challenges related to Quonnipaug Dam,” said House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora. “This smart investment by the Bond Commission will help local officials prevent a total failure of the dam while also protecting nearby properties and roads, and I applaud the effort of everyone who has focused on this issue and advocated for this critical allocation of state funds.”
“We are thrilled to receive State bond funding for this critical project which will ensure the integrity of the Lake Quonnipaug Dam, protect downstream properties from flooding and continued use of the State boat launch on the northern part of the lake. The project also includes a realignment of a difficult intersection on Route 77. Guilford taxpayers appreciate the State’s support of this project.” said First Selectman Matt Hoey.
Legislators Welcome State Bonding for New Haven
Legislators Welcome State Bonding for New Haven
HARTFORD – Today, New Haven’s state senators and state representatives welcomed over $29 million in state bonding to benefit New Haven. The funding will support the early education of 100 children, a new bus rapid transit system, a community housing land bank to eliminate blight, grants to homeowners with structural damage, providing more property to the New Haven Port Authority, and improvements at four parks and the Annex Little League. The specific projects include:
$2 million to provide a grant-in-aid to LULAC Head Start Inc. of New Haven to purchase a new building and relocate to James Street to accommodate serving approximately 100 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers; $20 million to finance the construction of a bus rapid transit system in New Haven as part of the Move New Haven On-Street Bus Rapid Transit System Project. Funding will be used to match a Federal Transit Authority RAISE grant. The project consists of eighteen enhanced on-street stops and four mini-hubs with shelters; $5 million to establish a community housing land bank and land trust in New Haven to assist with eliminating blight.; $1 million to finance grants-in-aid to homeowners with homes located in the immediate vicinity of the West River in the Westville section of New Haven and Woodbridge for structurally damaged homes due to subsidence and to homeowners with homes abutting the Yale Golf Course in the Westville section of New Haven for damage to such homes from water infiltration or structural damage due to subsidence.; $751,000 to change the use of the previously allocated funds to a grant-in-aid to the New Haven Port Authority for the purchase of Department of Transportation surplus properties for maritime related uses; $250,000 to implement and restore a city plan for Quinnipiac River Park; $100,000 to upgrade and restore parkgrounds and facilities at Fort Wooster Park; $100,000 for improvement to recreation areas at Fairmont Park; $100,000 for renovation of bathhouses, erosion prevention, beach upgrades at Lighthouse Park; $100,000 for upgrades to little league park facilities for the Annex Little League
“I am proud to put more than $29 million to work in New Haven,” said Governor Lamont. “From bolstering early education and enhancing park facilities to developing rapid transit, expanding housing options, and creating jobs in harbor area, these dollars will help the city chart a path to equitable economic growth. Each of these projects is a building block of transformation, and I am glad we’ve been able to get them approved.”
“This investment in early education will pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future, ensuring that more children have access to high-quality preparation for school and a strong foundation for success,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney. “Additionally, the establishment of a new bus rapid transit system will enhance connectivity and accessibility. Furthermore, the support for the New Haven Port Authority will continue the momentum of this local economic engine. Together, these initiatives demonstrate the unwavering commitment of New Haven’s state legislators and Governor Lamont to the progress, prosperity, and well-being of all our city residents.”
“This state funding for New Haven will benefit city residents in the short term and well into the future,” said Senator Gary Winfield. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and all my New Haven colleagues at the Capitol for their dedicated efforts in securing these funds.”
“This funding will foster much needed renovations and upgrades to our city,” said Rep. Pat Dillon. “I am proud of the New Haven delegation for our hard work in securing this funding.”
“This bonding supports investments that will significantly improve the quality of life in New Haven,” said Rep. Walker. “I thank my colleagues and our local partners for collaborating to provide resources to many community initiatives.”
“State funding for New Haven’s early education and other projects are critically important for the city to succeed, and I want to thank Governor Lamont, the State Bond Commission, the members of our legislative delegation, and others who worked to secure this funding, “said Rep. Porter.
“I’m thrilled to see all of the amazing projects that will be funded in New Haven,” Rep. Candelaria said. “These projects will help everyone, from toddlers to homeowners to those who use public transportation. Thank you to the New Haven delegation and Governor Lamont for their hard work securing these funds.”
“The approval of $751,000 in bond funding directly to the New Haven Port Authority helps complete a several-year land conveyance process to purchase four very important parcels of land currently owned by the DOT,” said Rep. Paolillo. “This allows for economic development and expanded maritime use in this strategic harbor area, an economic driver for jobs and commerce in our city and state. Thank you to Governor Lamont, DOT Commissioner Eucalitto, Senator Looney, Transportation Co-Chair Roland Lemar, New Haven Port Authority members, and staff who all worked cooperatively to make this happen.”
“New Haven will undoubtedly be better off with these projects funded, including the incredible investment in the Move New Haven On-Street Bus Rapid Transit System Project and our local parks,” Rep. Lemar said. “Not only will the residents of New Haven feel the immediate benefits of these projects, but they are also laying the groundwork for years of economic and social success in our community.”
“On behalf of the New Haven Port Authority we could not be more grateful and would like to thank Governor Lamont, DOT Commissioner Eucalitto, Senator Looney, Representative Paolillo and Representative Lemar. The conveyance of this land is very important because land is at a premium at the Port of New Haven will be very important for maritime commerce and the economic activity it brings,” said Sally Kruse, Executive Director of the New Haven Port Authority.
The Bond Agenda was approved on Friday, June 30.
WEST HARTFORD LEADERS WELCOME STATE BOND FUNDING FOR ROCKLEDGE GOLF COURSE TO MAKE CRITICAL IMPROVEMENTS
WEST HARTFORD LEADERS WELCOME STATE BOND FUNDING FOR ROCKLEDGE GOLF COURSE TO MAKE CRITICAL IMPROVEMENTS
Today, West Hartford leaders welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of $150,000 to make critical infrastructure upgrades at Rockledge Municipal Golf Course in West Hartford, the town’s golf course that has received renown statewide and beyond.
“Rockledge is one of West Hartford’s many great resources, and I’m glad our community is receiving the funds necessary to retain and improve its high quality,” said Senator Derek Slap. “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and the Bond Commission for their local investments.”
“I am thrilled that the town of West Hartford will receive funds from the state bond commission. The Rockledge Municipal Golf Course is used by local residents as well as individuals from around the state, and the upgraded water pump will be greatly beneficial,” said State Representative Bobby Gibson (D-West Hartford, Bloomfield).
“Rockledge is one of the preeminent public courses in the United States in addition to being vital open space for our community during the offseason,” said State Rep. Kate Farrar (D-West Hartford, Newington). “Upgrading the pump house, which is the heart of the irrigation system, will help maintain Rockledge as one of the town’s outdoor jewels.”
“Rockledge’s value to our community extends beyond the course, thanks to the open space for walking it provides during the offseason,” said State Rep. Tammy Exum (D-West Hartford, Avon). “Ensuring its irrigation system is properly maintained by upgrading the pump house will keep Rockledge positioned as a year-round hub of outdoor activity.”
“I’m so happy that we can support Rockledge Golf Course,” said Representative Jillian Gilchrest. “This funding will make much needed improvements to our town’s premier public golf course.”
West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor said, “Rockledge Golf Club is recognized as one of the finest 18-hole public golf courses in the United States. It has been voted Hartford Magazine’s “Best Public Golf Course” for 12 consecutive years and one of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play. We are grateful to the State of Connecticut for recognizing our need to keep Rockledge in pristine condition by offering this grant that will allow us to make much needed improvements to the irrigation system”
The State Bond Commission today approved its June 30 bonding agenda, including items including the $150,000 for Rockledge. The funds will be used to upgrade the golf course’s pump house, improving both the structure and the strength of the pumps.
According to a summary of work needed at Rockledge, the existing pumps and pump house were installed 40 years ago in 1983 and the system is past its useful life, unable to meet the golf course’s irrigation needs. Without sufficient water distribution, the entire golf course could face significant turf loss; with these improvements, in addition to improved quality of the course, Rockledge should also see water and energy savings through improved efficiency.