Sen. Cohen, Durham Lawmakers Announce State Funds for Durham Library Renovations
DURHAM – State Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford) and the members of the Durham state legislative delegation today announced that the State Bond Commission today approved a $147,000 state grant to help support renovations to the Durham Public Library.
“This bonding for the Durham Public Library shows government and bipartisan advocacy at its best,” Sen. Cohen said. “We listened to local officials, did our due diligence, and worked together as a team for the benefit of the people of Durham. I want to thank my legislative colleagues and Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for seeing the value of this public project and for bringing it over the goal line.”
For several years, the Durham Public Library has been developing a plan to update the library interior, which is essentially unchanged from the 1980s. The library developed a plan that will provide new quiet study areas, community gathering spaces, and updated technology access. The project will also add automated entry doors and ADA-compliant furnishings to improve access.
“The library is dedicated to providing the residents of Durham with reliable access to books, programming, and other informational resources,” the Durham lawmakers wrote earlier this year in a joint letter urging support for the library. “It is a vital asset to our community, serving over 100,000 patrons annually. The library’s appearance and functionality are of upmost importance to encourage an adequate learning environment.”
Durham’s legislative delegation s comprised of Sen. Cohen, state Senator Paul Cicarella (R-34), House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora (R-84) and Representative John-Michael Parker (D-101).
Sen. Cabrera, Hamden Delegation Applaud Expected Bonding Package for Hamden Fire Station
Sen. Cabrera, Hamden Delegation Applaud Expected Bonding Package for Hamden Fire Station
HAMDEN – Today, members of the New Haven delegation – state Senator Jorge Cabrera (D-Hamden), Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven) state Representatives Mike D’Agostino (D-Hamden), Robyn Porter (D-Hamden/New Haven) and Josh Elliott(D-Hamden) – applauded the State Bond Commission’s expected approval of $4.3 million for a modern emergency operations center at the Humphrey Fire House.
“We know how crucial it is to ensure efficient and effective communication during an emergency, which is why it is so important to secure these funds and why I am pleased to see the Bond Commission add this to the agenda,” said Sen. Cabrera. “The Hamden delegation and I are hopeful to see these funds be approved and the Humphrey Fire House receive the funds needed to modernize its emergency operations center.”
“This investment of state bonding is a big win for Hamden,” said Sen. Looney. “The replacement of Fire Station 2 has been a much-needed and long-sought-after project to modernize the facilities where our public safety officials spend every day keeping us safe. Additionally, the State Bond Commission is also approving money for substantial renovations at Mount Carmel Congregate Housing which will not only mean a better quality of life for the residents there, but helps maintain a critical asset that allows seniors to retire in the town they love. I want to thank all of my legislative colleagues that represent Hamden for their continuous work to make these projects a reality and Governor Lamont for approving these needed investments.”
“Fire Station 2 is in a 100-year-old building that currently violates OSHA standards for safety and accessibility,” said Rep. D’Agostino. “The Hamden Fire Station 2 firefighters have selflessly protected our community from there but they, and the community, need a new building. I am excited that this will no longer be the story for Hamden’s busiest fire station, serving a population of traditionally underserved residents.”
“I can’t tell you how elated I was when I got the word that Governor Lamont and Secretary McCaw had signed off on our Fire Station 2, $4.3 million bonding request,” said Rep. Porter, who also serves as the House Labor and Public Employees Committee Chair. “So, first let me thank the governor’s office for honoring our appeal. Second, I want to thank my Hamden delegation for reinforcing the fact that ‘teamwork is what makes the dream work’. This truly affirms that we are putting our first responders first by putting their needs and safety first. Not to mention, Fire Station 2 is the town’s most hardworking fire station, serving one-third of town residents. Now, with this project shovel-ready and funding in place, Hamden citizens will benefit from improved emergency service. Therefore, making this not only a win for our brave firefighters but also a win for our beloved community.”
“Funding for Fire Station 2 is long overdue,” said Rep. Elliott. “I am excited that this critical public safety facility will finally be replaced, modernized, and continue to serve Hamden for another century. I want to thank Governor Lamont for taking action on this essential project.”
“Over time, we’re seeing more and more severe weather due to the changing climate, and our need to respond to these emergencies continues to grow,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “I am glad that the state is able to partner with the Town of Hamden to create a new, modernized emergency operations center, which will serve as a critical resource for everyone who lives in the area during these emergencies.”
The funds, $4,300,032, will go toward a modern emergency operations center (EOC). A modernized EOC will assist in making the management and facilitation of activities during an emergency even more efficient and greatly benefit the Hamden residents. The Humphrey Fire House, founded back in 1908, is located on the South end of Hamden and houses the Hazardous Materials Response Unit.
The State Bond Commission will meet tomorrow, Tuesday, December 21 at 2 p.m.
Duff, Dathan, Perone, Simms, & Thomas Applaud New State Bonding for Norwalk
Duff, Dathan, Perone, Simms, & Thomas Applaud New State Bonding for Norwalk
State Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk), State Representative Lucy Dathan (D-Norwalk/New Canaan), State Representative Chris Perone (D-Norwalk), State Representative Travis Simms (D-Norwalk), and State Representative Stephanie Thomas (D-Norwalk/Westport/Wilton) announced today that the State Bond Commission is expected to approve funding for the Norwalk YMCA and Gallaher Mansion.
“I am glad that we can approve this state funding for Norwalk on each of these projects, which ultimately will help ensure that our nonprofit organizations in the city can continue providing the quality services that make Connecticut a great place to live and do business,” said Governor Ned Lamont.
“The Gallaher Mansion is the gem of Cranbury Park and this state bonding will ensure it remains a tremendous place for Norwalkers,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff. “Additionally, this bonding will support a complete rejuvenation of the Norwalk YMCA to become an even better destination for families. I’d like to thank Governor Lamont for his support of Norwalk and to the entire Norwalk delegation for their support in getting these projects across the finish line.”
“It gives me great satisfaction to see the work of our legislative delegation delivering this critical funding for the Norwalk YMCA and the Gallaher Mansion,” said Rep. Chris Perone. “From promoting healthy living to providing valuable social and cultural experiences to our residents and visitors, both facilities bring diverse benefits to Norwalk. I am proud to be able to support them.”
“I am thrilled to see this substantial funding heading to Norwalk for much needed upgrades to one of our local treasures, the Gallaher Mansion and to the Norwalk YMCA, which offers our children and youth amazing programs to help them maximize their potential,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan. “The community value of these two structures is priceless and I am grateful we are working together to keep them in optimal condition.”
“The Norwalk YMCA has been an indispensable foundation in our community that has served to enhance lives, young and old alike, with a rich selection of programs and activities that divert attention away from detrimental sedentary social media. The Gallaher Mansion is a gem in our community that also serves many functions including options to enjoy the great outdoors,” said Rep. Travis Simms. “This latest round of funding is the result of a delegation that effectively works together on behalf of Norwalk and I thank Governor Ned Lamont for including these items on the agenda.”
“I’d like to thank the Bonding Commission for their support of these important projects that will benefit Norwalk and the surrounding towns. The funding will support renovations that will ensure that these organizations will continue to serve residents for the foreseeable future,” said Rep. Stephanie Thomas.
The State Bond Commission is expected to approve:
- $5 million for a renovation project at Gallaher Mansion. Renovations will include drainage upgrades, façade repairs, replacement flooring, upgrades to electrical and plumbing, and the construction of a storage building.
- $1.2 million to the Norwalk YMCA for the renovations to its facility’s facade, landscaping, and outdoor common areas.
The Bond Agenda is set to be approved next Tuesday, December 21.
Energy and Technology Chairs Release Statements After Comcast Announces it Will not Pursue Data Caps in Northeast In 2022
Energy and Technology Chairs Release Statements After Comcast Announces it Will not Pursue Data Caps in Northeast In 2022
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) and State Representative David Arconti (D-Danbury), Senate and House Chairs of the Energy and Technology Committee, released the following statements after the announcement that Comcast will not pursue imposing data caps on internet customers in the Northeast in 2022. The publication Light Reading reported this week that Comcast will not activate data caps in the Northeast in 2022, extending an earlier announced delay that initially only ran until the end of 2021. In late 2020, Comcast announced the planned imposition of a 1.2-terabyte monthly data limit on internet customers starting in 2021; Sen. Needleman, Rep. Arconti and Connecticut Attorney General William Tong put significant pressure on the communications company in response, citing the financial issues and consumer-unfriendly practices such a change in policy would represent. Leaders of several northeast states acted similarly. In February 2021, the company delayed such plans, and delayed them further this week.
“It’s extremely encouraging that Comcast is further delaying its introduction of data caps, a practice that harms the consumer and pulls money out of households’ pockets,” said Sen. Needleman. “This policy would impact thousands of Connecticut residents every month and provide significant profits to Comcast if it goes in place. But delaying isn’t enough. When data use continues to spike and becomes a necessity for education, employment and entertainment alike, I’d rather see Comcast permanently end plans to impose caps. Comcast heard us loud and clear earlier this year, and I don’t plan on remaining quiet for the foreseeable future when families are already struggling to make ends meet.”
“I am proud of the work we have done pushing back against Comcast’s plans to implement data caps on their already hefty data packages,” said Rep. Arconti. “Back in February when we talked about the temporary halt on their data cap decision, I knew we had to continue our push against this idea. It is a good sign that they are committing to not pursuing their plan in 2022. I will continue working to get this bad proposal off the table and making it easier for consumers to get the access they need daily.”
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.
Statement of Sen. Cohen on Governor Lamont’s Climate Executive Order
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.