Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) released the following statement regarding the passing of former Norwalk Mayor and State Representative Bill Collins:
“I’m saddened to hear the news of Bill Collins’ passing. Bill is not only our former State Representative and Mayor, but he is a friend and neighbor.
“Bill helped inspire me to public service when I wrote to him as an eight year old about the future of Duffy Field, now Veterans Park. The fact that he actually answered me back speaks volumes about his character. I still have his letter hanging in my office, which always reminds me to help the next generation into public service.
“Bill was a visionary leader who began the revitalization of Washington Street, supported the vision of The Maritime Aquarium and made sure the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion was saved. He made long-term decisions for the betterment of Norwalk even if they weren’t always popular at the time.
“Bill’s legacy with the city he loved and the people he represented will live on for generations. I will miss him, but Bill will always have a special place in my heart.”
