“The program will allow funds to revitalize housing neighborhoods by neighborhood instead of the traditional house by house method used in the past,” said Rep. Butler. “City blocks can see a significant difference through leveraging state funds, and I thank Governor Malloy for his renewed commitment to housing.”

Under the pilot program, at least one or more neighborhoods based on available appropriations up to $10 million between this pilot program and other programs will be made available for owner occupied residences. As part of the pilot program, training and skills will be made available to first time home buyers on how to be an effective homeowner and/or landlord in the case of multiple unit dwellings.

“I worked with people with a housing and realtor background such as Bob De Cosmo and Sharon Hallock on the details of this bill for a couple of years. Recently, Board of Ed Commissioner Liz Brown has also helped to shape the vision” said Rep. Butler.

The funding would also be used to improve the aesthetic appearance of the selected neighborhood through renovations, modernization, clean-up and maintenance.

The bill now heads to the State Senate for action.

“This bill extends the protection for mentally disabled tenants to their families as well,” said Rep. Butler, House Chairman of the Housing Committee. “This is another tool in protecting our most vulnerable.”

Currently, Federal Housing Act guidelines prohibit discrimination as a sole reason for eviction. This bill specifies evicting for mental disabilities as falling under that definition of discrimination.

The bill having passed the State Senate now awaits the Governor’s signature.

HARTFORD — The House voted Friday to increase the fines for property owners who refuse to clean up blighted properties.

Under current law, fines can range from $10 to $100 a day for certain violations of local anti-blight ordinances. The legislation propose to set an additional state fine of $250 a day for willful violations.

The bill also requires towns and cities to give property owners or occupants written notice of blight violations and a reasonable opportunity to remedy blighted conditions before any enforcement action is taken.

New owners and new occupants would be able to request a 30-day extension under the bill. If problems persist, towns and cities could take a property owner or tenant to housing court, where state prosecutors could seek to impose a $250 fine for every day the violations continue.

In these proceedings, municipalities must show based on daily inspections of a property that blighted conditions continued after owners or occupants were notified and given a chance to clean up.

The bill's supporters said these provisions are intended to target property owners and tenants who willfully refused to clean up blight after being given the chance.

They also noted that a municipality must have adopted an ordinance that defines blight and provides cited parties an opportunity for a hearing.

The House approved the bill 129-13. The legislation still requires the approval of the Sen-ate and Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to become law.

Blight is not a problem confined to the state's cities and larger towns, said Rep. Jeffrey J. Berger, D-73rd District, House chairman of the Commerce Committee.

Advocates of the bill said blight lowers quality of life and property values in neighborhoods that it affects.

Berger said the economic downturn has worsened the blight problem in Waterbury and other cities that have been hardest hit.

“Winning a state championship is a remarkable accomplishment and I am honored to be able to celebrate with the Holy Cross football team, and to introduce them to the state during a legislative session day in the House,” Rep. D’Amelio said. “The hard work, dedication and effort these young men displayed throughout the season should be an inspiration to everyone. They worked together, never quit and ultimately claimed victory.”

“I am proud of this team, each and every player, the coaches and support staff and, of course, the teachers and school administrators who continue to push these young men to excel in both their academic and athletic pursuits” Rep. Noujaim said. “Success on the field comes from success in the classroom and the strength they showed during this season will undoubtedly carry over to their future collegiate and work pursuits. I congratulate them on their success but know it will not be the last time they accomplish great things.”

"I welcome the Holy Cross High School football team to Hartford and commend them on their CIAC Class S football championship. I applaud their hard work and dedication to the school and the community," Rep. Berger said. "They are all shining examples of upstanding citizenry, assets to Waterbury and role models for their peers."

"My sincerest congratulations to Holy Cross football," Rep. Butler said. "Your program consistently makes Waterbury proud.  You will carry these friendships and memories with you for the rest of your lives."

"Congratulations to the Holy Cross High School football players and coaches for their outstanding achievement," Rep. Aldarondo said. "The entire Waterbury community is proud of you and we wish all the members of the team the very best in the future. You all deserve to be honored at the State Capitol."

"I want to congratulate Coach Giampetruzzi and the entire football team for a job well done,” Senator Markley said. “Your commitment to one another on the field and off is a tremendous story to celebrate. All of your teamwork, perseverance and hard work paid off. You should be proud."

"It is my honor to co-host the Holy Cross High School football Crusaders at the Capitol this week," Senator Hartley said. "Having secured the Class ‘S’ championship they have served as an inspiration and role models to all. My congratulations to Coach Giampetruzzi and this year's champs."

The team will tour the Legislative Office Building and State Capitol before being recognized on both the floor of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The team will also be treated to a pizza lunch provided by Reps. D’Amelio and Berger and Sen. Hartley following their tour.

HARTFORD — The death penalty’s days are numbered after nearly 400 years in Connecticut now that the legislature has voted to abolish capital punishment.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is willing to sign the bill that the House passed 86-62 Wednesday night. The Senate approved the bill last week.

“I never thought in my years here that this would happen,” said Rep. Patricia Dillon, D-New Haven, a lawmaker since 1985 and a death penalty opponent.

The legislation prospectively repeals the death penalty and punishes what have been capital crimes with life sentences without the possiblity of release. It takes effect immediately upon the governor’s approval.

The bill reclassifies capital crimes as murder with special circumstances. It sets strict conditions for anyone convicted of this crime, including any inmates whose death sentences may be commuted after the change in law takes effect.

There is a dispute over whether the legislation willl permit the 11 inmates on death row today to have their sentences commuted on appeal.

“Let’s not mislead the public. Let’s not mislead ourselves. If it is the will of this chamber that this state is no longer in the business of executing people, then let’s say it and do it,” said House Minority Leader Lawrence F. Cafero Jr., R-Norwalk. “You cannot have it both ways.”

House Republicans highlighted the paradox throughout the prolonged debate. Some Democrats also underscored this inconsistency, too.

“It is a very curious moral position. That is the morality changes depending upon when it is applied,” said Rep. John W. Hetherington, R-New Canaan, the ranking House Republican on the Judiciary Committee.

Lawmakers on both sides acknowledged that the legislature would not approve a bill that applies retroactively.

“We have ways of proposing bills that overcome the difficulty of getting something passed and that is what we have in front of us,” said Rep. Larry B. Butler, D-72nd District.

He lost a younger brother to murder in 1985. He said he cannot join other lawmakers in the same position who have come to oppose capital punishment.

“I cannot get over the loss of my brother,” the Waterbury lawmaker said.

Although his brother’s murder was not a capital crime, he said he does not want to see the death penalty abolished.

“It boils down to one word, one word — justice. Don’t want revenge. It is not about vengeance. It is about justice,” Butler said.

Rep. Gary A. Holder-Winfield, D-New Haven, argued that capital punishment is applied inconsistently because only 11 murderers have been sentenced to death.

According to the Department of Correction, slightly more than 700 inmates were serving sentences for murder at the start of the year, including some convicted of capital crimes.

“The majoritiy of the people who have committed the worst of the worst crimes are not on death row and we call that justice,” Holder-Winfield said.

He said it is illogical to tell opponents of death penalty not to settle for a prospective repeal because total abolition is not possible.

Rep. Arthur J. O’Neill, R-Southbury, and other supporters of capital punishment argued that the death penalty does deter murder and other crimes. Rep. Marie Kirkley-Bey, D-Hartford, rejected that argument.

“There’s not a person in Connecticut who committed a crime, a murder, who said ‘I’m not going to do that because they have the death penalty,’” she said. “I don’t believe that and, if you do, you’re crazy.”

A retired Waterbury police officer, Rep. Jeffery J. Berger, D-73rd District, asked opponents to redirect their energy and efforts into making the death penalty workable, including limiting appeals.

“Working together we could come up with a plan that works,” Berger said.

He recounted the victims of the four inmates on death row who committed their crimes in Waterbury, a mother and her teenage son, a 23-year-old Christmas shopper and a 14year-old boy who were lured to their deaths, and a city police officer who was a close friend.

“Let’s not abandon this tool we have, and, with all due respect to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and my colleagues who are for repeal, think about these stories, think about these families, think about what we do today,” Berger said.

The 11 inmates on death row include Joshua Komisarjevsky and Steven Hayes, the two men convicted of murdering the family of Dr. William A. Petit Jr. during an invasion of their Cheshire home nearly five years ago.

Komisarjevsky and Hayes broke into the family’s home, beat Petit nearly to death and tied him up, and then held his wife, Jennifer Hawke-Petit, 48, and the couple’s two daughters, Hayley, 17, and Michaela, 11, before murdering them hours later. Hawke-Petit and Michaela were also sexually assaulted.

Rep. Alfred C. Adinolfi, R-Cheshire, was a neighbor of the Petit family. He said Komisarjevsky, Hayes and the others on death row deserve the penalty they are facing now.

“We in this chamber are showing sympathy for the murderers and not sympathy for the victims’ family. We’re wrong,” he said.

Adinolfi described the Petit family murders in detail, including how Hayley and Michaela died in a fire that was set after their mother was strangled to death.

“And, we say here that Komisarjevsky and Hayes don’t deserve the death penalty. Shame on us,” he said.

During the public hearing, CHRO answered questions on a variety of issues including:

• The commitment to ensure Connecticut's small businesses and those owned by ethnic minorities, women, and person with disabilities are solicited and employed on all stages of state funded projects.
• The commitment to ensure Connecticut's workforce goals are met on state funded projects.
• Funding and implementation of the State Disparity Study.
• Operation of CHRO and their policies and procedures.

“The B&PR caucus hopes to gain an understanding of how CHRO and state agencies handle the above concerns,” said State Representative Larry B. Butler (D-Waterbury).

“We hope to address the economic disparity for minorities in the state of Connecticut,” said State Representative Bruce Morris (D-Norwalk)

A representative from the State Fire Training School was invited to participate and the policies and procedures of the school as they pertain to ethnic minorities.

Reps. Jeff Berger (D-Waterbury), Larry B. Butler (D-Waterbury), David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury), Anthony D’Amelio (R-Waterbury, Middlebury), and Sen. Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury, Naugatuck, Prospect) welcome the State Bond Commission’s expected approval of funding to expand Naugatuck Valley Community College (NVCC) in Waterbury as a manufacturing center to train the state’s future manufacturing workforce.

State Rep. Jeff Berger, left, State Senator Joan Hartley, middle, and State Rep. Larry Butler.

Included in job growth legislation championed by Rep. Berger and Rep. Butler was $17.8 million in state bond funding for the development of manufacturing programs at three community colleges. The Bond Commission is set to approve $8.9 million on Friday, March 30.

“Economic development and job creation are nothing without a workforce poised with the necessary skills and training to enter the field,” Rep. Berger said. “These centers will make the best use of funding and will ensure a consistent and productive partnership between manufacturing and the community colleges.”

"NVCC designation as one of three sites in the state for expansion of manufacturing technologies programs will build upon our community college's strong platform of manufacturing, which is deeply rooted in the Naugatuck Valley manufacturing sector," Senator Hartley said.

“The education and training provided by NVCC will ensure our residents are able to compete not only for the jobs of the future, but for the precision manufacturing jobs that are available today in Connecticut,” Rep. Butler said. “The center will have a significant and positive impact on unemployment and provide opportunities for young people and working adults.”

“We have a responsibility to educate our young people about the exciting career opportunities in our industry and help build the manufacturing workforce of the future," Rep. Aldarondo said. “These centers will attract young students into engineering and manufacturing careers, helping to build the manufacturing workforce of tomorrow.”

“Education is a very important piece of the employment puzzle and this money will allow NVCC to educate and train even more students to excel in today’s changing high-tech manufacturing environment,” Rep. D’Amelio said. “Connecticut has a strong manufacturing background and equipping our residents with sought after skills will be a tremendous boost for our state.”

Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury, Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, and Quinebaug Valley Community College in Danielson were selected based on their ability to establish or expand manufacturing technology programs and their commitment to precision manufacturing.

Built on the region’s manufacturing roots and enhanced with modern advancement in technology and innovation, the Advanced Manufacturing Center located in NVCC’s Technology Hall, will continue to feature manufacturing and technical education with subjects ranging from CNE technology to welding and lean manufacturing.

Current enrollment and graduation trends indicate a strong resurgence in NVCC manufacturing programs. There has been a 425 percent increase in the number of students enrolled in manufacturing certificate programs from 2006–10.

The Advanced Manufacturing Center is expected to see an enrollment increase of 100 percent in two years (approximately 90 enrollees) and another 100 percent in five years (approximately 180 enrollees). As a result part of the grant, NVCC will purchase additional equipment to properly train the expanding student body.

NVCC will build upon existing credit and non-credit coursework in traditional machining. The existing Manufacturing Certificate is also being revised into a Multi-Disciplinary Manufacturing Technology Certificate program to introduce technologies and create a manufacturing generalist who can succeed in a wide range of manufacturing environments.

The NVCC Community and Economic Development Division will also provide complementary non-credit courses so manufacturing students will be well-prepared to enter the workplace as effective employees with manufacturing knowledge and skills. In addition, close collaborations with NVCC’s Job Placement Center and the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board will provide students with internships and industry partnerships producing highly skilled graduates ready to meet the challenges of 21st century product design, innovation and manufacture.

NVCC will also be responsible for providing measureable outcomes — which include students graduating from the program and final job placement in the state’s manufacturing industry.

Included in job growth legislation championed by Rep. Berger and Rep. Butler was $17.8 million in state bond funding for the development of manufacturing programs at three community colleges. The Bond Commission is set to approve $8.9 million on Friday, March 30.

“Economic development and job creation are nothing without a workforce poised with the necessary skills and training to enter the field,” Rep. Berger said. “These centers will make the best use of funding and will ensure a consistent and productive partnership between manufacturing and the community colleges.”

"NVCC designation as one of three sites in the state for expansion of manufacturing technologies programs will build upon our community college's strong platform of manufacturing, which is deeply rooted in the Naugatuck Valley manufacturing sector," Senator Hartley said.

“The education and training provided by NVCC will ensure our residents are able to compete not only for the jobs of the future, but for the precision manufacturing jobs that are available today in Connecticut,” Rep. Butler said. “The center will have a significant and positive impact on unemployment and provide opportunities for young people and working adults.”

“We have a responsibility to educate our young people about the exciting career opportunities in our industry and help build the manufacturing workforce of the future," Rep. Aldarondo said. “These centers will attract young students into engineering and manufacturing careers, helping to build the manufacturing workforce of tomorrow.”

“Education is a very important piece of the employment puzzle and this money will allow NVCC to educate and train even more students to excel in today’s changing high-tech manufacturing environment,” Rep. D’Amelio said. “Connecticut has a strong manufacturing background and equipping our residents with sought after skills will be a tremendous boost for our state.”

Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury, Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, and Quinebaug Valley Community College in Danielson were selected based on their ability to establish or expand manufacturing technology programs and their commitment to precision manufacturing.

Built on the region’s manufacturing roots and enhanced with modern advancement in technology and innovation, the Advanced Manufacturing Center located in NVCC’s Technology Hall, will continue to feature manufacturing and technical education with subjects ranging from CNE technology to welding and lean manufacturing.

Current enrollment and graduation trends indicate a strong resurgence in NVCC manufacturing programs. There has been a 425 percent increase in the number of students enrolled in manufacturing certificate programs from 2006–10.

The Advanced Manufacturing Center is expected to see an enrollment increase of 100 percent in two years (approximately 90 enrollees) and another 100 percent in five years (approximately 180 enrollees). As a result part of the grant, NVCC will purchase additional equipment to properly train the expanding student body.

NVCC will build upon existing credit and non-credit coursework in traditional machining. The existing Manufacturing Certificate is also being revised into a Multi-Disciplinary Manufacturing Technology Certificate program to introduce technologies and create a manufacturing generalist who can succeed in a wide range of manufacturing environments.

The NVCC Community and Economic Development Division will also provide complementary non-credit courses so manufacturing students will be well-prepared to enter the workplace as effective employees with manufacturing knowledge and skills. In addition, close collaborations with NVCC’s Job Placement Center and the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board will provide students with internships and industry partnerships producing highly skilled graduates ready to meet the challenges of 21st century product design, innovation and manufacture.

NVCC will also be responsible for providing measureable outcomes — which include students graduating from the program and final job placement in the state’s manufacturing industry.

“In this market, it has devastating effects on families,” said Rep. Butler. “It’s unfortunate enough these people could be displaced, but then not to compensate them fairly is a slap in the face.”

The issue in Waterbury is on Birch Street, which is slated to lose homes by eminent domain to make way for a new career academy school. Those who would lose their homes are being offered thousands of dollars less than the amount on which they pay taxes. The bill would force all cities to reimburse homeowners based on the actual assessed value on which their property tax is calculated.

“I’m especially thankful to the members of the Waterbury Board of Aldermen, the Board of Education and Mayor Neil O’Leary for signing a letter of support for the bill which was presented at the P&D Committee public hearing,” said Rep. Butler.

Homeowners in Waterbury are hoping Representative Larry Butler's fight to change the eminent domain bill will payoff at the capitol. Butler wants homeowners to be paid the amount on the current tax bill if there home needs to be taken. As of now, residents are given the average of two appraisals which is often much lower then the tax assessment.

A Waterbury man claimed his own city took his home and ripped him off. Now a state representative decided to step in, and wants to change eminent domain laws to make sure this won’t happen again.

“Sometimes guys in suits don't listen, but they need to listen to this one,” said Ray Thompson. He wants state lawmakers to know what happened to him and his neighbors on Birch Street in Waterbury.

“It’s unfair, it’s very unfair for people who work hard every day,” Thompson added. A few months ago the city said it was taking his home by eminent domain to build a school here.

It agreed to pay Thompson nearly thirty thousand dollars less than what his home was worth. The city’s amount was based on an assessment, not on the actual tax bill. “It's happening in Waterbury, it can happen anywhere, Groton, New London, New Haven,” Thompson said.

A Waterbury lawmaker told NBC Connecticut people on Birch Street should not lose tens of thousands of dollars over their homes. On Friday he will take his fight against this to the Capitol, hoping this would never happen to anyone again.

“In this market, it has devastating effects on families,” said State Representative Larry Butler. Butler is proposing a new eminent domain bill, and he will bring a long list of signatures with him to show he has a lot of backing. “Everyone from the Mayor to the Board of Education Commissioners,” Butler explained.

The bill would force all cities to pay homeowners based on the actual property tax, instead of an assessment. That way homeowners would get compensated fairly if they’re forced out. “It's a bill I believe they need to pass. It’s going to protect the homeowner in the future,” said Roy Thompson. He wants lawmakers to take his story into consideration when they decide if this bill moves forward Friday morning.

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WATERBURY — State. Rep. Larry B. Butler is proposing a change in state law that could increase payouts to property owners who have their land and homes claimed under eminent domain.

The move follows an emotional series of public meetings last fall concerning Waterbury’s efforts to take several homes on Birch Street for a new vocational high school. At the time, the city’s low offers shocked homeowners.

Ana Hernandez Antuna, the worst impacted, would have been left homeless and $55,000 in debt.

After a newspaper story, the city backed off and searched for a way to offer more money. The city’s lawyers concluded, however, that it was just not possible under state law, which currently requires offers to be based on fresh appraisals.

City officials did drop their demands for Antuna’s property and a neighboring apartment building. They continue to press claims on four houses, one of which is vacant.

The city has claimed property for two other schools in recent years. And while these efforts were not without complaint, the outcry was not nearly so dramatic. This time, however, homeowners are being forced to sell during a historic downswing in the real estate market.

Butler’s proposal would require redevelopment agencies to offer landowners — at a minimum — the value recorded on the latest grand list, which is used for tax purposes. In Waterbury, the Waterbury Development Corp. handles eminent domain claims.

Butler’s proposal faces its first test at a hearing before the legislative Committee on Planning and Development on Friday. It would have made a big difference for Roy Thompson, a city garbage hauler, and his wife, Jennifer, a telephone company office worker.

The city demanded the Thompsons’ home for $111,000, and the family is still fighting for a better offer in court. When it comes to paying taxes, however, the city says the Thompsons’ house is worth $139,805.

Jennifer Thompson didn’t know of Friday’s hearing until contacted by a reporter Wednesday. She wished she could make it. It’s been a frustrating haul. Apart from the shocks and worry, dealing with the process and paperwork has become like a second job.

After the story broke in October, city officials railed against the injustice and promised to help the homeowners. Thompson and some others have expressed deep disappointment in the lack of results.

Butler began trying to gather support for his bill from local officials last week.

“All I heard was everybody wanted to do something,” Butler said. “Here’s a chance to do something going forward.”

Mayor Neil M. O’Leary said Tuesday he couldn’t say if he would support Butler’s proposal. Nobody had previously told him of its existence and he hadn’t had a chance to review it.

“We should all be proud of our arts and cultural programs in Waterbury and the individuals who make these programs so successful. These awards recognize the importance of that work,” said Rep. Butler. “I will continue to fight for these and other critical state dollars to improve and sustain the arts and our cultural heritage.”

The five groups in Waterbury who received grants are:

• Mattatuck Historical Society - $21,875
• Seven Angels Theatre - $2,882
• Waterbury Region Arts & Culture Collaborative - $108,744
• Waterbury Symphony Orchestra - $4,274
• Palace Theatre Group, Inc. - $8,009

“These organizations, as well as our beautiful Arts Magnet School, are a testament to the fact that Waterbury has consistently supported the arts throughout the years,” Rep. Berger said. “These grants are a confirmation of the importance of the arts in enriching lives in a vibrant and diverse community.”

The grant programs were was established by the State of Connecticut to stimulate the development of private sector funding and help stabilize arts institutions. The $108,744 grant is a one time initiative bringing mural-based public art into downtown spaces by enhancing public spaces through the visual arts and to connect the urban regions of Connecticut with a statewide place making initiative.

“These grants are good news for Waterbury's residents,” Rep. Aldarondo said. “This financial support helps our people who are working on the local level to promote art and culture right in our own community.”

Three important announcements earlier this year will give a much-needed boost to homeownership and the overall economy of Connecticut.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is recommending adding more than $330 million to bolster affordable and supportive housing across the state.

The funding builds on last year's commitment, which allocated more than $130 million, and brings the total commitment to nearly $500 million over the next 10 years.

This is a long-overdue commitment for the cities. As House Chairman of the Housing Committee, I am looking forward to helping communities become more vibrant places to work and live.

The new proposal builds upon the initiatives Gov. Malloy included in last year's budget, including an increase of $30 million in bonding for each of the next 10 years for public housing to bring deteriorated and vacant units back on line; an additional $20 million that will increase affordable housing options; an additional $12.5 million in capital funding to reinvigorate the state's elderly congregate housing; and an annualized $1.5 million for the Rental Assistance Program, which assists low-income families with securing affordable decent, safe and sanitary housing.

It is estimated that these housing initiatives included in the current two-year budget will create or retain more than 6,700 jobs.

Investing in housing where there already is infrastructure is smart policy and this advances an agenda for making affordable housing more available, especially since we have high housing costs. For the past 20 years, Connecticut has languished in its commitment to affordable housing — a critical area that is needed to help individuals and families find stability and employment.

As studies have shown, every dollar spent on affordable housing generates multiple times that amount in private economic activity. Housing is going to be a key component of getting Connecticut moving again.

Another important development that will help housing came when state Attorney General George C. Jepsen announced a landmark $25 billion joint federal-multistate settlement agreement with the nation's five largest mortgage servicers over foreclosure abuses and fraud, and unacceptable nationwide mortgage servicing practices.

Under the settlement, Connecticut homeowners and the state will receive more than $190 million. As important as the financial relief is, the settlement also requires the banks to change the way they service distressed loans, and holds the banks accountable for what have become familiar abuses. And for the first time, state attorneys general will have authority to monitor how federally regulated banks comply with the new servicing rules and to impose heavy penalties on those banks that fall short. The $190 million will be divided among homeowners and the state of Connecticut:

• Connecticut borrowers will receive an estimated $119 million in benefits from loan term modifications and other direct relief.
• The estimated 7,500 Connecticut borrowers who lost their home to foreclosure from Jan. 1, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2011 and suffered servicing abuse would qualify for an estimated $1,500 in cash payments to individual borrowers.
• The value of refinanced loans to Connecticut's underwater borrowers would be an estimated $36 million.
• The state will receive a direct payment estimated at $27 million to help pay for local foreclosure prevention programs, such as the Connecticut Department of Banking's foreclosure prevention hotline, HUD-approved housing counselors, the judicial branch's foreclosure mediation program, nonprofit legal aid groups that help homeowners facing foreclosure, and loan modification programs supported by the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority.

The settlement does not grant any immunity from criminal offenses and will not affect criminal prosecutions. The agreement does not prevent homeowners or investors from pursuing individual, institutional or class action civil cases against the five servicers. The pact also enables state attorneys general and federal agencies to investigate and pursue other aspects of the mortgage crisis, including securities cases.

The third announcement came from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which awarded Connecticut a grant of nearly $21 million to build, repair, renovate and modernize public housing units.

This grant will build upon the initiatives begun last year to address long-standing needed capital improvements for housing in our state.

It will also improve economic development and job creation, especially in construction industry.

“I am very pleased and humbled to even be considered for this award,” said Rep. Butler. “Being involved with PHRO has meant a great deal to me. The residents are so dedicated and I have really enjoyed my participation.”

Rep. Butler received the PHRO award for his work as House Chairman of the Housing Committee. In 2011, he was instrumental in passing a law allowing tenants of any public housing complex the ability to elect their representative to that housing authority’s board of commissioners.

The Connecticut Public Housing Resident Network is a statewide organization of public housing residents committed to providing a voice for public housing residents in the decisions that affect their lives and their communities at the local, state and federal levels.

After a bad couple of years economically, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says he wants to lead an economic revival of Connecticut.

Malloy appealed to Democratic and Republican legislators Wednesday to help his administration bring about this rejuvenation.

“Yes, it has been a long 13 months. But a state that was on its knees has stood up and said, ‘Enough is enough — we’re ready to change our future,’” he said. “Yes, we have a long way to go, but a state that was at the crossroads of crisis and opportunity is beginning to turn a corner because we chose opportunity.”

The governor, Democrats and Republicans came together to pass a sweeping bipartisan jobs bill during a one-day special session last October. House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan, D-Meriden, said Malloy is looking to building on that success.

However, Democrats and Republicans also split last October on legislation to help finance construction of a $1.1 billion genetics laboratory on the Farmington campus of the University of Connecticut Health Center.

Republican and Democratic leaders were making no commitments on Wednesday.

The Connecticut economy is picking up after the worst recession since the Great Depression, said Rep. Jeffrey J. Berger, R-73rd District, House chairman of the Commerce Committee.

“I certainly feel that the economy is turning around. The state of Connecticut lost roughly 120,000 jobs between 2008 and 2010,” he said.

Berger said the state has added back 35,000 jobs since 2010, including 9,400 last year, according to the state Department of Labor.

Rep. Larry B. Butler, D-72nd District, is encouraged to see housing is a component of governor’s budget plan and the economic revival that Malloy is seeking to spur. The Waterbury lawmaker is House chairman of the Select Committee on Housing.

Malloy is proposing to allocate an additional $20 million in state bonding for developing af-fordable housing. The two-year, $40.5 billion budget that was enacted last year included $50 million for that purpose this year.

“I am thrilled to see this kind of commitment toward funding housing,” Butler said.

The governor’s plan also includes proposals regarding rehabilitating public housing, congregate housing for the elderly and supportive housing for people with special needs.

Malloy wants to commit $30 million a year for the next 10 years to upgrade state-assisted housing. He is seeking $12.5 million to develop 50 new units of congregate housing and $750,000 for rental assistance for people who need supportive housing.

CHRISTINE STUART PHOTO

"Taken together, this represents the largest commitment to affordable housing in decades," Malloy said. "For too long, Connecticut has built too little affordable housing and we need to jumpstart those efforts and we do so today."

About 10 percent of the 1,400 units of state-funded affordable housing in Connecticut are currently vacant or uninhabitable, said Dara Kovel, chief housing officer at the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority. Under Malloy's proposal, which calls for $30 million in additional state borrowing for public housing each year over 10 years, about 300 units could be fixed up and put back online by next year, with more to follow.

State Rep. Larry Butler, D-Waterbury, co-chairman of the General Assembly's housing committee, said Malloy's plan will help put a dent in the long waiting lists for public housing. In his city, he said there are currently 1,500 people waiting for housing. He said some could wait as long as five years.

"We have so much public housing out there that is in need of repair. And that money is going to help (make) a lot more housing to be available to all of our municipalities," Butler said.

Malloy's plan also adds $20 million to the $50 million that's already in the two-year state budget for affordable housing projects; adds $12.5 million to help rehabilitate the state's elderly congregate housing program and develop about 50 new units of elderly housing; and sets aside an additional $1.5 million in rental assistance.

Additionally, the governor said he wants to reorganize the state's housing functions under a new State Office of Housing, which will be located within the Department of Economic and Community Development. He said there are currently a number of offices that handle housing matters and are located in several state agencies.

Senate Minority Leader John McKinney, R-Fairfield, voiced support for Malloy's housing proposal in a written statement distributed by the governor's office. McKinney, who favors affordable and supportive housing, pledged to work with the governor on the initiative when the new legislative session opens next week.

“It is critical to support the cultural, artistic and historic preservation organizations so that they can achieve their goals and continue to add to Connecticut’s economic vitality and quality of life,” said Rep. Butler. “I’m pleased DECD included many Waterbury groups.”

The four groups in Waterbury who received grants are:

• The Mattatuck Museum - $14,865
• Seven Angels Theatre - $8,636
• Waterbury Region Arts & Culture Collaborative - $32,000
• Waterbury Symphony Orchestra - $7,514

“It is important and the responsibility of those in public service to work diligently for scarce state grant dollars,” Rep. Berger said. “We have worked hard to showcase our arts and culture in the Waterbury area and these awards highlight that work. I will continue to fight for these and other critical state dollars to improve and sustain our quality of life and cultural heritage.”

The grant programs were designed to strengthen Connecticut’s arts infrastructure by offering funding to arts organizations that have consistently provided quality public programming and to establish a network of committed Local Arts Agencies helping to develop a statewide culture and tourism infrastructure to more effectively serve Connecticut’s citizens.

“These grants are good news for Waterbury's residents," Rep. Aldarondo said. "This financial support helps our people who are working on the local level to promote art and culture right in our own community.”

Financial aid counselors and college staff will be available to talk from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and give one-on-one advice about financial aid and planning for college. In Waterbury a forum will be held at Naugatuck Valley Community College.

Rep. Butler said that participating in College Goal Sunday gives students and their families a great first step on the pathway to college. It gives the students and families an opportunity to learn about preparing for college and financial aid in a comfortable setting.

Rep. Butler said that in a single afternoon, students and their families can become familiar with college entrance requirements, learn about planning for college and obtain on-site assistance in filling out financial aid applications. In addition, there will be information about the benefits of attending college, student support services, areas of study and different degree programs. Spanish interpreters will be available.

For more information about the event, call (888) 277-2270, email info@collegegoalsundayct.org or visit the website: www.collegegoalsundayct.org.

In conjunction with the Working Group of State Legislators for Health Reform, hundreds of lawmakers from across the nation joined forces to announce and demonstrate their support of the Amicus Brief. The legislators’ brief argues that the Constitution gives broad power to the federal government to act in cases where a national solution is necessary. The ACA capitalizes on state innovations by setting a minimum coverage floor and giving states considerable policy flexibility.

The ACA has already provided benefits to children with pre-existing conditions, who can no longer be denied health insurance; individuals who cannot be kicked off their policies when they get sick; and young adults who can stay on their parents’ policies until age 26. More residents will save money on their health care when the law is fully implemented in 2014.

“It is time to stand strong and support the Affordable Care Act law that has brought much relief to Connecticut residents as well as American citizens across our nation,” said Rep. Butler. “We cannot afford to lose the progress already made by giving in to political pressures that in the end will only hurt working families, small businesses and seniors.”

Victoria Veltri stated, "The Affordable Care Act puts consumers first, and I am proud, as the State’s Healthcare Advocate, to stand by that legislation today. Connecticut consumers benefit from reforms that go beyond the ACA’s insurance reforms to include broader healthcare reforms such as patient centered medical homes, health information technology and healthcare work force initiatives. OHA’s consumer assistance program grant under the ACA is directly responsible for putting an additional $5.7 million put back into the pockets of Connecticut’s healthcare consumers and educating hundreds of thousands of Connecticut residents about their healthcare rights."

Over 500 state legislators representing all 50 states signed on to the Amicus Brief defending the law. The brief will be filed today and was prepared in conjunction with the Working Group of State Legislators for Health Reform (a national group of state legislators working to advance health reform and implement the Affordable Care Act), Progressive States Network, and the Constitutional Accountability Center.

The full text of the Amicus Brief will be available at: www.progressivestates.org/ACAamicus

Waterbury legislators addressed the CPTC at a public hearing last year concerning the need for evening bus service to provide access to second shift retail and manufacturing jobs and to evening classes at Naugatuck Valley Community College.

“This is a life-changing opportunity for the citizens of Waterbury who for far too long have been denied the ability to seek employment and/or advance themselves through higher education due to transportation difficulties,” Rep. Berger said. “This is a defining moment and something we all can be proud of that is a result of everyone working together to improve the quality of life for our citizens.”

“The Waterbury legislative delegation has advocated for this expansion for many months. I'm glad to help those needing transportation for jobs and for local students attending evening classes," Rep. Butler said. "Another positive development has the bus routes being evaluated to determine how the current service can be improved."

"This is good news for Waterbury's residents who need and use public bus transportation," Rep. Aldarondo said. "Evening bus service is a must for a many people and increased service is welcomed."

"The delegation worked together to make increased bus service a reality for Waterbury and I'm pleased the ridership numbers have surpassed expectations," Rep. D'Amelio said. "The ability for people to get to and from work and school is important not only for those using the service itself but also for the Greater Waterbury community as a whole."

“All statistics have shown that ridership has exceeded expectations," Rep. Noujaim said. "This is a service Waterbury has needed for many years and I am so pleased that everyone involved in the process worked in harmony to make it happen. I look forward to the service becoming permanent."

“I’m genuinely pleased with our expanded regional bus service and one feature in particular: those enrolled or who work on the Naugatuck Valley Community College campus can now use mass transit rather than go to the expense of driving and parking their own cars,” Sen. Hartley said. “This spares them the cost of gas and additional wear and tear on their cars and helps the entire city by reducing congestion and traffic-related delays.”

As a result of the Commission’s recommendation, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (ConnDOT) designated a portion of its federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality funding to cover the operating cost of the evening bus service and has made a commitment to provide funding for a minimum of three years. Evening service began on October 24th of last year and ridership has steadily increased to 450-500 passengers per evening, proving need and possibly serving as a model for other municipalities to follow.

WATERBURY — The State Bond Commission approved a $1.3 million allocation Friday for the construction of an affordable housing complex on North Main Street.

State Rep. Larry Butler, D-72nd District said the units are targeted for low-income families whose incomes are 25 to 50 percent of the area's median income.

"The expanded housing will help with the revitalization of the neighborhood near the new Jonathan Reed School and PAL," Butler said.

The bond money will be used to construct 10 three-bedroom rental units on a vacant lot at 885 North Main St.

The project by Neighborhood Housing Services is estimated to cost $2.4 million, with the balance coming from a $500,000 Connecticut Housing Finance Authority tax credit and the balance from city of Waterbury HOME funds.

Butler said another positive aspect of the project is that it will create or retain around 31 construction-related jobs.

"This is what the city fathers were envisioning when they were trying to rehabilitate the North End — a multiple approach," NHS Executive Director Owen Quinn said. "Not only new housing, new schools and a new athletic facility but taking a dramatic step in the revitalization of a key neighborhood in the city of Waterbury."

Quinn said three potential contractors are refining their bids and he expects them to submit them before the holidays. He said a bid is expected to be awarded by January and ground broken on the project by spring.

This vacant lot on North Main Street will be the site of a new 10-unit affordable housing complex. The State Bond Commission just approved a $1.3 million allocation for its construction by Neighborhood Housing Services.

“Gov. Malloy has shown a real commitment with the money he put in the budget for affordable housing and Speaker Donovan has helped me bring some of those funds to Waterbury for some much needed housing,” said Rep. Butler, the House Chair of the Legislature’s Housing Committee. “The expanded housing will help with the revitalization of the neighborhood near the new Jonathan Reed School and PAL.”

Specifically, the state grant-in-aid will be used to construct 10 three-bedroom rental units on a vacant lot at 885 North Main Street in Waterbury. The units will be targeted to renters at 25-50% of area median income. This project will create or retain approximately 31 construction related jobs.

“I can’t thank Rep. Butler enough for going to bat for us,” said NHS Executive Director Owen Quinn. “This funding is the last piece we needed to provide quality homes for young families in the north end of Waterbury. The project will establish a safe neighborhood while redeveloping an urban area of Waterbury.”

The total estimated project cost is $2.4 million, with an additional $500,000 coming from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority tax credit and $500,000 from City of Waterbury HOME Funds.

The association honored Rep. Butler and others at its second annual Awards Dinner Nov. 19 at the Hartford Plaza Hotel in East Hartford. State Supreme Court Justice Lubbie Harper gave the keynote address and James Gatling PhD made the presentation of the award to Rep. Butler.

Rep. Butler with friends from Waterbury.

“It was indeed an honor to receive such a prestigious statewide award,” said Rep. Butler. “I was so proud to receive it with my wife Jacqueline and several friends from Waterbury in attendance.”

Rep. Butler with his wife Jacqueline.

Rep. Butler and Supreme Court Justice Harper.

“It was an honor to bring the Speaker of the House to Waterbury to help homeowners navigate their way through a complicated process,” said Rep. Butler. “Helping residents stay in their homes will remain a top priority as long as I am the House Chair of the Housing Committee.”

The association honored Rep. Butler and others at its annual Awards Dinner Nov. 4 at the Villa Rose at the Pontelandolfo Club in Waterbury.

Rep. Butler said, “I was proud to work with the Waterbury state delegation and take a lead role in bringing a bill to the house floor preventing this trash-to-energy plant from coming to the city.”

“I’m honored to have shared my constituents concerns with the people that could make real changes,” said Rep. Butler. “We discussed education, job creation and extending the payroll tax cut.”

The discussion featured senior White House and Obama Administration leaders, led by Valerie Jarrett, senior policy advisor to President Obama.

Since taking office, President Obama has worked to secure the future prosperity of the African American community by creating jobs, revitalizing schools, making college more affordable, increasing access to health care and strengthening the bonds that keep families together.

Rep. Butler was panelist at the CT Housing Coalition Annual Conference on Wednesday morning explaining the new Tenant Commissioner Law (PA 11-203) and presented the “Housing Hero” award for “Grassroots Change” at this conference.

“I was excited with the spirited conversation about the Tenant Commissioner Bill and it was an honor to present such a prestigious award,” said Rep. Butler.

On Thursday, (October 20th) Rep. Butler attended a public hearing on the new Jackson Labs that are under consideration for a move to Connecticut along with hundreds of jobs.

On Friday, (October 21st) Rep. Butler participates as a panelist at the Connecticut Public Health Associations annual meeting and conference at the Aqua Turf in Plantsville. There he will highlight the accomplishments of the Housing Committee during the 2011 session, including the mortgage foreclosure mediation process extension and the tenants’ rights law.

Three of the families slated to be moved for the Waterbury Career Academy project made personal pleas to the Board of Aldermen during its Tuesday night meeting.

“Are you guys going to be OK laying your head on the pillow at night knowing you left my family out in the street?” asked Ana Hernandez-Antuna.

The city offered Hernandez-Antuna $115,000 for her house at 161 Birch St. The city bases her annual property tax bill on a $143,799 assessed value, but she owes $170,000.

If they take her home, she said she will be left homeless but still owing the bank $55,000, which is too much for someone to handle after clawing her way out of bankruptcy and foreclosure.

“What if this were you?” she pleaded. “What would you do?”

Every elected politician who spoke on the topic was angry on the families’ behalf.

State Rep. Larry B. Butler, D-72nd District, said the city looked like a bully, or worse — “land robbers.”

Board of Aldermen President Paul K. Pernerewski Jr. said the city lawyers were working out a deal to give the Birch Street families additional money. He expected details soon.

“We’re not heavy handed in this city,” said Mayor Michael J. Jarjura. “I guarantee you there is going to be a solution. No one is going to be forced out until we have a solution.”

After offering the families reassurances, the politicians then turned on each other.

Jarjura chastised the Board of Education for breaking local protocol. They should have come to the aldermen for legislative approval before getting state OK for a bigger project, he said.

Alderman Lawrence V. De Pillo wanted an official letter of reprimand to be placed in the personnel file of chief operating officer Paul Guidone, who is overseeing the project.

The school board also met Tuesday night. There, Guidone assured members that the city was going to offer additional assistance to homeowners in light of the unusual burden created by the housing market.

The city's offers are based on recent comparable property sales. The resulting offers are well below values the city uses for tax purposes. Residents have said this has left them with an uncertain future.

Board of Education member John E. Theriault called it an “absolute atrocity” that taxpayers could be taxed at one value, then ordered out of their homes for less compensation than their tax assessment. Other board members expressed similar, if somewhat more muted, concern.

Guidone would not elaborate publicly on the extra help that will be available to homeowners. Instead, he said he’ll brief the school board in a closed executive session meeting next Monday. The additional assistance offered to homeowners will vary with their circumstances.

“I don’t know it’s a problem we can’t solve, or at least go a long way toward solving,” Guidone said.

Some school board members seemed largely comforted by Guidone’s assurances. Others wanted more assurances that the homeowners were treated fairly.

“I have confidence we are going to work this out,” Board of Education President Patrick J. Hayes Jr. said.

Waterbury’s procedure for taking homes by eminent domain is based in part in on state and local law and regulation and past practice. Two appraisals are done, setting the bounds for the city’s offer. The Waterbury Development Corp. — which is handling property acquisition for the project — used the higher appraisal in their offer.

If a property owner won’t sell, they can get their own appraisal and attorney, and fight the price in court.

City officials hope to have all residents out of their homes by December, so that they can start construction early in the new year.

First proposed in 2008, the Waterbury Career Academy is intended to provide an alternative to hundreds of city students who are turned away from Kaynor Technical High School each year. The 800-student school will also relieve overcrowding in Waterbury’s three mainstream high schools. It’s slated to open in 2013.

HAMDEN — Thanks to the collaboration of public and private agencies, residents who live in three Hamden Housing Authority properties are now saving on their energy bills.

The Housing Authority and its partner in the venture, New Opportunities Inc., held an open house Monday to celebrate the weatherization work in 190 units; 110 units at Hamden Village on Clifford Street, 40 units at Centerville Village on Worth Avenue and 40 units at Mount Carmel Village on Woodruff Street.

The work included the installation of ductless heat pumps and new windows.

“It was quite a thrill to get this work done for our residents,” Housing Authority Director Hazelann Cook said.

James H. Gatling, president and CEO of New Opportunities Inc. of Waterbury, said that his agency is one of five community action agencies in the state that have participated in weatherization projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

“To be here to celebrate the completion of our effort is fantastic,” he said.

Gatling said that the project had to overcome several administrative and technical hurdles before the work could be done. For example, a safety overflow switch had to be developed for the heat pumps so that water wouldn’t spill into apartments. The switch had to be approved by the state building inspector.

The Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund contributed about $120,000 to the program, enabling the state to receive $700,000 in stimulus money for the project for the 190 units.

The project created jobs for contractors and administrative jobs for New Opportunities, he said.

Claudette Beaulieu, deputy commissioner of the state Department of Social Services, said her agency “had a big challenge” when it learned it was receiving $64.3 million in federal stimulus money, a much larger amount than for its regular weatherization program.

By March 2012, more than 10,000 housing units will be weatherized. DSS worked with United Illuminating and Connecticut Light & Power to figure out solutions. “I know this is going to pay off in the long run with long-term savings,” Beaulieu said.

“Every item here was installed or manufactured here in Connecticut,” said Chris Ehlert of UI.

The project began in November 2010. Companies that worked on the project or supplied equipment were Star Supply of New Haven, Mercury Windows of Windsor, Thomaston Comfort Control, Patriot Air Conditioning and Heating of Norwalk, Gems Sensors and Controls of Plainville and New England Energy Conservation Services of Woodbridge. Diversified Technologies of Hamden provided engineering services.

Audrey Turner, a retired nurse who lives in Centerville Village, said she likes the new unit in her apartment because she needs to have continuous air conditioning due to a medical condition.

“I was concerned about the utility bill until the August bill arrived. It was only $50,” Turner said.

Mayor Scott D. Jackson and state Reps. Larry Butler, D-Waterbury, Roland J. Lemar, D-New Haven, Al Adinolfi, R-Cheshire, and House Majority Leader J. Brendan Sharkey, D-Hamden, also spoke to how the project has created jobs, will save residents money and will reduce the need for the dependence on fossil fuels.

WATERBURY - James H. Gatling took no pleasure in describing his corporation, New Opportunities Inc., with a workforce of 550, as one of the region's largest employers.

New Opportunities is a non-profit provider of social services, and Gatling told two visiting legislative leaders Wednesday that its status as a major employer is all they need to know about Waterbury's struggles since its brass mills closed.

For the second time in a week, Waterbury was the destination for a fact-finding mission from Hartford, where Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and legislators are prepping for a jobs summit on Oct. 6 and a special session on jobs three weeks later.

With an unemployment rate of 11.8 percent, the jobless rate in the Waterbury labor market is the highest in Connecticut, a state that has struggled to achieve net growth in jobs for more than 20 years.

A new governor is promising a new attitude towards business, and this city is as eager as any to see those words translate into action. For 10 consecutive years, in good times and in bad, it has led the state in unemployment.

James H. Gatling, (r) listens as Mark E. Lancor (l) makes a point.

"We're more than hanging off the cliff here," said Sen. Joan Hartley, D-Waterbury.

"We have to do something, and we have to do it, like yesterday," said Rep. Larry B. Butler, D-Waterbury.

Malloy and his commissioner of economic development, Catherine H. Smith, were here last week at Seidel Inc., an aluminum finishing company, looking for ideas for the special session that House Majority Leader J. Brendan Sharkey says is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 26.

Since June 27, the governor and Smith have visited dozens of companies, ranging from farms and tourist sites, including Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport and the state's two casinos, to the helicopter manufacturer, Sikorsky Aircraft.

He has met with an association that represent independent colleges, a coalition of companies involved in hydrogen fuel cell technology, and groups that promote the arts.

Sharkey said the governor also is meeting with legislators.

"There is definitely a lot of outreach going on, and in a bipartisan fashion as well," said Roy Occhiogrosso, the governor's senior adviser. "The governor has been very clear: He wants this to be a productive special session. There is a lot of behind the scenes work, and more will be taking place."

Legislators of both parties have been conducting their own jobs tours and business roundtable talks.

Sharkey and House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan, D-Meriden, met Wednesday with the Waterbury Regional Chamber.

They listened to pleas for better coordination between the curricula of technical schools and community colleges and the needs of employers, an issue Malloy frequently discusses. Officials also asked for help in redeveloping polluted "brownfield" sites that are a legacy of the city's brass industry.

They were told some of the things that Malloy has been hearing on his stops: Broaden the governor's "First Five" program, which provides major aid to big companies that can add at least 200 jobs, to smaller employers, and don't give up on manufacturing.

Jack Traver, the owner of Traver IDC, a supplier of electrical apparatus to industry, told them that metal stamping and metal finishing companies still are viable in the Naugatuck Valley, even if the days of thousands of workers pouring out of cavernous red-brick mills at quitting time live on only in a Ken Burns' documentary about wartime production in Waterbury.

Skilled tool-makers make $75,000 a year, and their average age is 58, Traver said.

Traver said there are no one-size-fits-all problems or solutions or hiring needs. Manufacturing might mean metal-stamping in the valley, aerospace around Hartford, and medical products along the shoreline.

Christopher A. Gallo, a partner in the accounting firm of BlumShapiro, told Donovan and Sharkey that navigating the state's regulatory bureaucracy is daunting for new companies.

Sharkey told him that the Malloy Administration has been gathering information on permitting processes that can be streamlined.

Mark E. Lancor, a principal in an engineering and land surveying business, said his company has gone from 15 employees in 2008 to six. Aside from the downturn in real-estate development, his company is being hammered by health costs, he said.

His rates went up 32 percent since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, he said.

Lancor told the legislators that he can find only five companies in Connecticut willing to bid on his health coverage.

"If Hartford can do something to give me a choice...to me, that would be a huge, huge bonus," he said.

Taxes did not come up, nor did the adoption this year of a mandate on some businesses to provide paid sick days, which was strongly opposed by the state's largest business group, the Connecticut Business and Industry Association.

Rep. Jeff Berger, D-Waterbury, the co-chairman of the legislature's Commerce Committee, said he was not surprised that no one raised paid sick days as an issue Wednesday.

"The attitude is, 'Let's not talk about rhetoric. Let's talk about what we can do,' " Berger said.

WATERBURY - Thomas Samph, president and chief executive officer of Post University, had a simple message Wednesday for two members of the state legislature’s Democratic leadership.

“‘For-profit’ is not a bad word,” he told House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan, D-Meriden, and House Majority Leader J. Brendan Sharkey, D-Hamden. “The point is that the state treats us as though we’re something bad, when we’re not.”

Samph said the state should not target nor punish businesses for making a profit, especial­ly his private for-profit university — the fastest-growing higher education institution in the state — because his is one of the few institutions in Connecticut consistently adding jobs.

His comments were among many made by education and business leaders from the region during a business round­table Wednesday morning hosted by the Waterbury Regional Chamber at its offices on Bank Street.

Connecticut could reverse most of its small business losses from the decade just prior to the last recession by easing the burdens that make it one of the most regulated states in the nation, according to the University of Con­necticut’s latest quarterly economic journal.

Christopher A. Gallo, left, a partner with the accounting firm Blum, Shapiro & Co. in Shelton,
and Mark E. Lancor, principal engineer with DyMar Land Services in Southbury, participate in a business roundtable with state legislators Wednesday at the Waterbury Regional Chamber.
David Krechevsky, Republican-American

House Majority Leader J. Brendan Sharkey, D-Hamden, center, speaks with business and education officials Wednesday during a business roundtable hosted by the Waterbury Regional Chamber. Seated with Sharkey are House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan, D-Meriden, left, and Sen. Joan V. Hartley, D-Waterbury.
David Krechevsky, Republican-American

Berger said the session will focus on a number of jobs-related areas, including education and the vocational-technical schools, manufacturing, small businesses, and the health care sector.

Hartley said the jobs session can’t begin soon enough.

“We do not have any more time,” she said, noting that the seven-town Waterbury labor market has had the state’s highest unemployment rate for more than a decade. “We are more than hanging over the cliff here.”

Hartley said she would like Malloy to refocus his First Five economic development program, which offers tax credits and incentives to large businesses that agree to create 200 new jobs within two years or invest $25 million and create 200 new jobs within five years. The program has already awarded credits and incentives to Cigna, TickeNetwork and ESPN, but Hartley said it should target companies in key communities.

“The jobs initiative should be tied to unemployment,” placing jobs in areas like Waterbury that have had high unemployment for a long time, she said.

The chamber’s Public Policy Committee offered its ideas, also suggesting Malloy alter the emphasis of the First Five program.

“Rather than providing additional incentive packages to a small number of large corporations ..., the state could make a similar-sized investment of broader job creation incentives for small and medium-sized businesses,” the committee said in a statement.

To deal with the region’s high unemployment rate, it suggested overhauling training programs for both unemployed and current workers to focus on manufacturing, and increasing support for brownfields redevelopment. It also suggested reducing state unemployment benefits to 26 weeks, and raising the standard for requiring the unemployed to actively look for work and to document that search.

Financially supporting precision manufacturing training programs, meanwhile, is a subject near and dear to the heart of Richard DuPont, president of Resource Development Associates in Watertown and a training consultant. He said the state needs to provide more money for precision manufacturing training programs, particularly to retrain the unemployed.

“We need more workers than the vo-tech schools can produce,” he said. Lisa Hylwa, principal of Kaynor Technical High School in Waterbury, said that with better input her school’s curriculum could be more closely aligned with the needs of manufacturers in the region. She added, however, that many manufacturers won’t offer workplace training to high school students because of fears about liability, even though each company’s insurance policy would also cover any student who suffers an injury.

“There’s still a reluctance there,” Hylwa said. “We want the community to know that we are trying to have students work in the community. We don’t want manufacturing to die.”

Christopher A. Gallo, a certified public accountant and partner with Blum, Shapiro & Co. in Shelton, told the legislators that reducing regulation and creating certainty for businesses would help to create jobs. He said anyone starting a business today faces a “morass” of state regulations.

“If I had to start a business, I’m not sure I could even help somebody get through the morass,” he said. “When people don’t know what to expect ..., it’s very difficult to plan your future, and you don’t want to hire people.”

Samph, the Post University executive, said his institution just hired 60 workers and is “desperate” to hire more. He said it could eventually employ as many as 1,000 people at its Waterbury campus.

The problem, he said, is that it costs $15,000 per employee to train each new hire, and another $2,000 to $4,000 to recruit each worker, because the region does not have a large pool of workers with the needed skills. He supported the idea of the state funding retraining, but said the state also could encourage businesses to hire simply by treating them more equitably.

“I am so proud to see my work on the funding of these projects in the 72nd district become a reality”, said Rep. Butler. “Rep. Aldarondo worked with me on the extra $500,000 and Rep. Berger also helped with his support on the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding committee.”

The work scheduled for the Slocum Childhood Daycare Center includes:

• Roof replacement
• Replacement or repair of the HVAC system
• Façade repair
• Parking lot improvements
• Window replacements
• Creation of additional classroom space

The central office of New Opportunities, Inc will receive installation of a new heating and cooling system. This office houses social service programs including day care, energy assistance and the WIC program.

“This funding will help New Opportunities, Inc. expand and improve its Childhood Daycare Center as well as making vital improvements to their building that is used to assist thousands of people with social services each and every year,” said Rep. Butler. “Dr. Gatling and his staff are held in high regard for the services they provide and I’m glad to be able to help them as they help so many others.”

“Child care continues to be a major stumbling block to self sufficiency and I am very pleased to see it receives the proper attention in this funding package. Also, New Opportunities has been providing critical services for many years through various programs and dedicated staff,” Rep. Berger said. “Given the state of the economy and the diminishing federal dollars, we must continue to push for and support any assistance that can be provided to keep these crucial programs intact.”

“This is important funding to pay for needed renovations and improvements to facilities that provide programs that serve our greater community," Rep. Aldarondo said. "I want to thank Governor Malloy for placing $2.8 million for Waterbury on the Bond Commission's agenda for action.”

Both projects are anticipated to result in 51 construction related jobs to complete the necessary work.

Standing in a parking lot alongside Interstate 84, State Rep. Selim G. Noujaim, R-74th District, looked out as the eastbound traffic began to back up. He knew what was going to happen next.

"People start getting off the highway and start going through the neighborhood streets," he said. "They try to make up time and speed on the streets and cause more accidents on the side streets of Waterbury."

That wouldn't happen, he said, if the plan to widen I-84 was completed. But Noujaim gathered with several other politicians at the Park & Ride lot Friday to decry a proposed 35 percent cut to the state's transportation budget and promise to fight the congressional bill that includes the cut.

A bill proposed by House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman John Mica, R-Fla., would cut 35 percent of current funding from Connecticut's roads and bridges, U.S. Rep. Christopher Murphy, D-5th District, said, adding the six-year bill would cost the state an estimated $167 million a year and cut close to 6,000 jobs.

"There's nothing better to create jobs than putting money into fixing our atrophied roads and bridges," Murphy told a crowd of transportation workers, some of whom, he said, are among the 22,000 who have lost their jobs in the state over the past four years. "When we go back to Washington in September, we're going to be fighting with every fiber of our being for a robust transportation bill."

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said the Senate transportation bill, titled "Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century," provides the funding the House bill does not.

"We can't afford as a nation that kind of draconian cut," he said of the House bill. "We need an outpouring of bipartisan support."

He appeared to have it at the press event Friday, with Republican Noujaim supporting Democrats in decrying the proposed bill.

State Rep. Larry Butler, D-72nd District, also joined the opposition to the measure.

"All you have to do is come here at rush hour and you will know how important this project is, not only for Waterbury but for the state," Butler said. He added that keeping and creating transportation jobs also stimulates the state's economy.

"We need people with jobs willing to spend money to show the consumer confidence this state needs to make this economy turn around," he said.

An upgrade to the east-west highway between Exit 25A and Exit 22, was widely expected to begin construction in spring 2010 but was delayed because of uncertain funding. The project, which includes road widening between Austin Road and the Silver Street Expressway, is the final leg of a three-phase plan to make I-84 three lanes in both directions east of the Mixmaster.

Later in the day, Sen. Joe Markley, R-Southington, responded to the press conference in a written statement criticizing Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's transportation plan.

"To pay for the $1,000-an-inch New Britain to Hartford busway boondoggle, Gov. Malloy is diverting taxpayer dollars away from the very transportation projects that Sen. Blumenthal and Rep. Murphy are talking about," Markley said in the prepared statement. "Maybe our members of Congress should pick up the phone, call Gov. Malloy and urge him to block the bus."

Championed by Rep. Butler and State Rep. Ernest Hewett (D-New London), the legislation was modeled after “Katie’s Law”, in memory of Katie Sepich, a 22-year-old graduate student at New Mexico State University, who was raped, strangled, set on fire and abandoned at a dumpsite near her home in August of 2003. In Katie’s case, after three years, the New Mexico DNA database matched the unknown profile of her perpetrator, who had been convicted of several other crimes.

“This law helps prove the innocent, convict the guilty and will help the unsolved cases that have DNA evidence collected,” said Rep. Butler.

The legislation requires people arrested for any of 39 serious felony offenses to provide a DNA sample before they are released from custody if they had previously been convicted of a felony. Additionally, the information gathered will be added to a federal DNA database.

WALLINGFORD — The Housing Authority is expected to become the first in the state to give public housing tenants the right to elect one of their own to represent them.

The recent Town Council vote allowing an elected tenant commissioner on the Housing Authority will take effect if Gov. Dannel P. Malloy signs House Bill 6461 into law this month.

"You are really the template for the rest of the state," said Betsy Crum, executive director of Connecticut Housing Coalition, which will oversee the election of a tenant commissioner this fall.

The tenant representative on the Housing Authority has been selected by a vote of the council. That has often led to charges that the selection of a tenant commissioner was politically motivated.

But discussions started earlier this year by Republican Councilman John LeTourneau and Democrat John Sullivan led to an agreement that resulted the council approving the election of tenant commissioners.

"There are no losers in this," said Robert Parisi, chairman of the Republican-controlled council.

An attempt in the General Assembly to pass the tenant commissioner legislation failed in 2010, but was passed this year. State Rep. Mary Mushinsky, D-Wallingford, one of the bill's supporters, said the legislature's passage of the bill is evidence "that persistence pays off."

"The big difference is that we have a new governor who thinks this is the right thing to do," Mushinsky said.

State Rep. Larry Butler, D-Waterbury, who is co-chairman of the legislature's Housing Committee, said he was impressed by the Wallingford council's commitment to fairness for the less fortunate.

"Very rarely do we see a community that wants to jump ahead of passage of a state law," Butler said.

If Malloy signs the bill, the law will take effect Oct. 1, said Crum.

That will give the Connecticut Housing Coalition time to work with Wallingford Housing Authority tenants on the details of the election, including how candidates will be chosen, she said.

But for now, Housing Authority residents such as Pat Hogan are content to celebrate Wallingford's milestone.

"This is a dream come true," said Hogan, who is president of the authority's Tenant Council.

“This legislation will build Connecticut’s energy future by lowering energy costs and opening up job and business opportunities across a wide spectrum of energy industries,” said Rep. Butler. “With this bill, Connecticut becomes a national leader in energy policy, embracing clean energy as the path to success in the 21st century economy.”

In its major components, the legislation:

• Creates the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
• Creates the Clean Energy Finance & Investment Authority to leverage private capital for clean energy projects
• Improves electricity contracting and procurement procedures to lower rates
• Orders a study of electric market rules and their effect on higher rates
• Supports zero-emission and low-emission technologies
• Establishes a one-stop-shop to proactively reach out to businesses and consult with them on available programs and reducing their energy costs

The broad aim of Senate Bill 1243 is to lower Connecticut’s energy costs and electric rates (amongst the highest in the nation), while moving the state toward clean and efficient energy. The bill seeks to help create the industries, jobs and businesses necessary to facilitate this kind of transformation in Connecticut, and then export those products, technologies and services elsewhere in the world.

The bill, having passed both the House and Senate now goes to the Governor who is expected to sign the bill.

Read a fact sheet on Senate Bill 1243.

"This is a huge quality of life issue for residents, who can enjoy fishing this summer without having to travel," said Rep. Butler, who originally sought fish stocking for Lakewood at the request of a neighbor, John Luccia. "John was the inspiration for this project and hundreds of people have shared with me how much they have enjoyed fishing at Lakewood. Among the many fish that were released was a very rare albino catfish and I challenge someone to catch it and send me a picture."

"Since my first term, I’ve been committed to Lakewood and I'm thrilled more and more people enjoy the park," said Rep. Butler. “As long as I serve the 72nd District, I will do everything I can to keep this tradition going.”

"The stocking of Lakewood Lake in our community is a terrific program and I am pleased to join Representative Butler and everyone who continues to ensure that this program continues," Rep. David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury) said. "It is important that we support the state Department of Environmental Protection and provide the funding to make this program possible, not only so that our residents in Waterbury will be able to enjoy recreational fishing, but that lakes, ponds and streams are stocked for fishing season statewide."

“I was surprised to find out carbon monoxide detectors were not required in all schools and therefore felt we had to take action to prevent further incidents,” said Rep. Butler. “This case in Waterbury may have turned out to be a major tragedy if not for the quick response of school officials and emergency response departments. I am pleased my colleagues and Waterbury delegation supported the bill and concurred with the importance of this legislation.”

The bill provides that all existing public school buildings in the state be equipped with carbon monoxide detectors and that such detectors be routinely tested and inspected to ensure that they are in proper working order. The legislation also withholds a certificate of occupancy for any public school building unless the local fire marshal or building official has certified that carbon monoxide detection equipment is installed in compliance with fire safety code.

The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.

The bill (HB 6351) gives homeowners an opportunity to participate in the foreclosure mediation program without simultaneously engaging in litigation for up to eight months. The bill also would extend the judicial branch’s mediation program to include owners of properties occupied by religious organizations. Under the current law, the program is restricted to owner-occupants of one- to four-unit residential properties. The bill also:

• Extends the date for the first mediation meeting to be held from 15 business days to not later than 35 days after a referral by the court.
• The eight-month hold period suspends the homeowner’s obligation to respond in the foreclosure action, and prohibits the mortgage holder from making a motion for default or judgment, until 15 days have passed after the mediation period's expiration or termination.
• Specifies new requirements that both the homeowner and mortgage holder are required to present at the first mediation session to accelerate the process.

“For most homeowners, mediation is the first opportunity they have to meet face to face with a representative from their mortgage company,” said Rep. Butler. “I’m pleased the program will now be available to places of worship. This legislation enhances what is already a national model for helping people with foreclosure and not to burden them with the extra demands of litigation while they try to work it out with banks.”

In response to the national foreclosure crisis, the General Assembly took action in 2008 to protect and assist homeowners by establishing a Foreclosure Mediation Program that has since become a national model. The program, conducted through the judicial branch, assists lenders and homeowners in negotiating a mutually agreeable resolution of a mortgage foreclosure action through the mediation process. Since the program’s inception, over 9,000 cases have completed mediation and the program has achieved a 79% settlement rate. This bill further improves the program by simplifying the process and making mediation more productive for homeowners and lenders. The bill also provides greater protections to renters who live in foreclosed properties, enhances municipalities’ abilities to prevent blight of foreclosed properties, adopts the federal exemption for highly compensated employees from overtime requirements for mortgage loan originators, and strengthens the competitiveness of Connecticut’s chartered banks.

The current process can be difficult for many homeowners to understand because while they are actively engaged in the mediation process with the lender, the foreclosure litigation continues concurrently. Putting mediation first will allow the homeowners to focus on what they need to do to assure a successful mediation and save them the cost of banks’ attorneys’ fees and missed time from work. Connecticut’s courts will also benefit by saving time and costs from unnecessary litigation. The mediation program saves homes, and makes costly litigation unnecessary, a win-win for all parties involved.

Properties in foreclosure often suffer from neglect during the process, and it can be difficult to find a property manager or owner to perform necessary maintenance. This bill enhances municipalities’ abilities in finding property owners or managers of residential properties in foreclosure by requiring their registration with the municipality when the foreclosure process begins. The bill also expands the scope of the existing registration requirements and provides civil penalties for failure to register. These new provisions will help ensure neighborhood preservation during and after foreclosure and allow for the monitoring of buildings at risk of deterioration as a result of foreclosure activity.

“This bill was one of my highest priorities and certainly a priority for Connecticut residents facing foreclosure,” said Rep. Butler. “I’m proud it passed in the House.”

Connecticut’s residents who are behind in their mortgage or are facing foreclosure on their homes may call the Department of Banking’s Foreclosure Hotline at 1-877-472-8313 toll-free to receive advice and guidance regarding their mortgage problems and their foreclosure case status.

“Some tenant commissioners are chosen for reasons unrelated to their ability to speak on behalf of other tenants,” said Rep. Butler. “Allowing elections assures the tenant commissioner is a true representative.”

In Connecticut, a housing authority is governed by a board of commissioners, typically composed of five members. Both state and federal law require that one commissioner be a tenant of that housing authority. The tenant commissioner will have full voting rights, including voting on rent increases.

“This bill gives tenants the ability to elect someone who truly represents their interests,” said Rep. Butler. “Most tenants care deeply and work hard to improve the conditions where they live.”

Federal law already provides the option for tenants to elect their tenant commissioner. This bill would allow the process in Connecticut and specify when an election would be required:

• If a sufficient number of resident’s petition (10% or 75 tenants, whichever is less).
• If tenants of the specific housing authority do not petition, a housing authority jurisdiction-wide resident council shall choose the tenant commissioner.
• If the above conditions are not met, then the appointing authority shall select the tenant commissioner.

The bill now goes to the State Senate for consideration.

• The Waterbury Development Corporation was given a grant-in-aid for $1,052,205 for planning for a multimodal transportation center for greater Waterbury.
• A portion of $2.5 million will assist in returning brownfield sites to productive use.
• Funding for Cherry Street redevelopment
• Funding for East Main Street redevelopment
• Funding for the East End public safety facility

“Brownfields redevelopment in urban areas start with the remediation process,” said Rep. Butler. “I’m happy Waterbury continues to lead in this area.”

“I am happy for the funds allocated to this project,” said Rep. Aldarando. “They will go far in helping the Waterbury community.”

A coalition of unions and activists deepened its multifaceted attack against Bank of America Thursday in a new report accusing the financial giant of numerous abuses in Connecticut and the nation.

The coalition, which includes the Service Employees International Union and the Connecticut Citizen Action Group, unveiled "Bank of America in Connecticut: Profiting Without Pitching In."

The report accused Bank of America of:

• pushing credit cards on struggling employers with interest rates that are up to 15 percentage points higher than typical small business loans.
• a dismal record of modifying mortgages for homeowners threatened with foreclosure.
• making state taxpayers subsidize health care for its Connecticut employees at a cost of $6.4 million annually, by paying some employees so poorly that they qualify for the state's low-income medical assistance.
• failing to pay its share of taxes in 2010, when the company, according to its recent annual report, received tax credits of $7.8 billion.

Carol Meyers, a policy analyst for SEIU who researched and prepared the report, said Bank of America is just an example, but it's the biggest example. "They play a huge role in the economy and their behavior is egregious," Meyers said. "Are they worse than other companies? We can't say."

Bank of America, Connecticut's largest bank with 22 percent of deposits, swiftly defended itself against the wide-ranging allegations.

"The individuals behind this report are entitled to their own opinion, but they're not entitled to their own set of facts," said T.J. Crawford, a Bank of America spokesman.

Crawford said the bank is an aggressive lender to small and mid-size businesses.

In Connecticut, at the end of last year, the bank had more than $1 billion in loan commitments to small businesses. Aside from traditional loans, Bank of America established a program that will "unlock" up to $100 million in micro-loan capital from the U.S. Small Business Administration. In Connecticut, that will result in more than $1.5 million in loans to entrepreneurs and small businesses that will create or retain 150 jobs.

The bank defended its efforts to help homeowners behind on their mortgage payments, citing 790,000 loan modifications since January, 2008 -- including ones through the U.S. Treasury's Home Affordable Modification program, or HAMP.

But the report said the bank's efforts were hardly laudable, given that the bank modified just one in five loans through HAMP. And just 12 percent of those who were denied help under HAMP were offered a modification through the bank's "in-house" program, while 59 percent have lost or are in the process of losing their homes, the report said.

On the issue of health care for its employees, Crawford said that 84 percent of eligible employees participate in a company medical plan. "All eligible employees earning less than $50,000 had a 50-percent decrease in per-pay period costs for family coverage in 2011."

The coalition, the Connecticut Action Alliance for a Fair Economy, said the Bank's abuses are happening after nearly $200 billion in bailouts and backstops funded by taxpayers.

Bank of America's "refusal to pay a fair share of taxes, onerous limits on job-creating lending and irresponsible behavior that has contributed to a steep decline in home values has cost Connecticut an estimated $1.7 billion since 2009," the group said.

Crawford disputed the accusation: "We take our responsibilities as a corporate citizen very seriously, and when we owe taxes we pay them. Over the last 10 years, no company has paid more U.S. taxes than Bank of America."

Earlier this year the group held protests at the bank's offices in Hartford and Middletown, including a mock Valentine for the bank.

“For most homeowners, mediation is the first opportunity they have to meet face to face with a representative from their mortgage company,” said Rep. Butler, who chairs the legislature’s Housing Committee. “One of my legislative goals is to have mediation happen before any litigation.”

The news conference highlighted existing resources and assistance available through the Connecticut Fair Housing Center. Mediation classes are offered across the state and feature an 80-page manual which walks homeowners through the Connecticut foreclosure process, including all forms needed for court. To date, some 5000 owners have kept their homes thanks to this mediation process.

“We've been working collaboratively with homeowner advocates and Connecticut banks to improve our foreclosure mediation and foreclosure processes,” said Rep. William Tong, who chairs the legislature’s Banks Committee. “We are all trying to make the process is fair and efficient, and avoid undue hardship on homeowners who find themselves in a difficult financial situation."

“We need to continue exploring all possible options to keep people in their homes,” said Speaker Donovan. “This proposed legislation gives people the power to help themselves without worrying about looming legal action.”

HB 6463 aims to extend the foreclosure mediation program to 2014 and to offer homeowners facing foreclosure an opportunity to participate in the foreclosure mediation program without simultaneously engaging in litigation. HB 6351 proposes similar goals.

“The Connecticut Fair Housing Center is the only non-profit organization in the state that provides legal assistance and resources, free of charge, to homeowners facing foreclosure,” said CFHC Staff Attorney Jeffrey Gentes. “One in 13 Connecticut homeowners is either 90 days behind on their mortgage or in foreclosure. It is critical that we continue to support and educate people about resources like the state’s Foreclosure Mediation Program so that we can prevent as many foreclosures as possible.”

"While Connecticut navigates out of our tough economic times, we don't want to leave behind homeowners who are still having some difficulty," said Speaker Donovan. "This action plan gives people the power to help themselves and is a win/win for those involved."

The forum highlighted resources and assistance available through the Connecticut Fair Housing Center. Mediation classes are offered across the state, with this evening's forum a brief introduction. Topics discussed ranged from home loan modification and negotiating a home exit strategy to housing counselors and demystifying the process. An 80-page manual which walks homeowners through the Connecticut foreclosure process, including all forms needed for court was distributed. To date, some 5000 owners have kept their homes thanks to this mediation process.

"For most homeowners, mediation is the first opportunity they have to meet face to face with a representative from their mortgage servicer," said Rep. Butler, who chairs the legislature's Housing Committee. "One of my legislative goals is to have mediation happen before any litigation."

"Waterbury is a city of distinct neighborhoods which we must work to maintain and allow to flourish. The time to assist struggling homeowners is before they get into trouble with their mortgages and this is what we must focus on," said Rep. Berger. "We need to take a proactive approach in order to stave off foreclosures while exploring all possible options to keep people in their homes. Foreclosures, both residential and commercial, add to city wide blight, harm all of our neighborhoods and erode our quality of life."

"The Connecticut Fair Housing Center is the only non-profit organization in the state that provides legal assistance and resources, free of charge, to homeowners facing foreclosure," said CFHC Staff Attorney Jeffrey Gentes. "One in 13 Connecticut homeowners is either 90 days behind on their mortgage or in foreclosure. It is critical that we continue to support and educate people about resources like the Foreclosure Mediation Program so that we can prevent as many foreclosures as possible."

The Housing Committee has oversight over matters relating to housing statewide and to all programs that affect housing in Connecticut.

“The Housing Committee is particularly important these days when too many people are facing economic hardships that make finding affordable housing a struggle,” Butler said. “Housing is a basic need and government has a responsibility to do everything it can to try to ensure affordable, decent housing is within reach for everyone.”

In addition to leading the Housing Committee, Butler will also serve on the Finance, Revenue & Bonding and Human Services Committees. Butler, a Democrat, was elected to his third term in House of Representatives this past November.

Rep. Butler can be contacted by calling his office at the State Capitol toll free at 1-800-842-8267, or via email at larry.butler@cga.ct.gov

Butler said DEP delivered about 1,200 Arkansas Catfish to Lakewood last week as part of the agency's Urban Fishing program established only a few years ago. DEP also annually stocks streams and rivers with trout for fishing season.

"This is a great quality of life issue for residents, who can enjoy fishing this summer without having to travel,� said Butler, who originally sought fish stocking for Lakewood at the request of a neighbor, John Luccia. "John was the inspiration for this project and in the long run I think it can lead to for more enhancements of Lakewood Park."

After discussing Lakewood with Luccia, Butler worked with the Waterbury Parks and Recreation Department to facilitate an official request by the City to the DEP.

"When I was elected, I said Lakewood would be on our agenda and I'm thrilled for everyone who enjoys the park,"Butler said.

Butler also noted that the legislature passed a bill requiring DEP to reserve a credit for anyone who purchased higher priced fishing licenses between October 1, 2009 and April 14, 2010. The credit is the difference between the amount paid for the license and the subsequent price reduction by 65% approved by the legislature in April. The credit will be applied against licenses purchased for the 2011 fishing season.

DEP workers stock Lakewood Lake with 1,200 Arkansas catfish for the enjoyment of local anglers.
State Rep. Larry Butler (on crutches) looks on in the background.

"Representative Butler has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to housing, neighborhood preservation and community development," said CCDA President Thomas Ivers.

Ivers cited Butler's work on pending legislation (SB319) that would establish a Connecticut Housing Finance Authority pilot program to encourage home ownership in targeted urban neighborhoods with high proportions of vacant or bank-owned multi-family houses.

"It is always gratifying to be recognized for something that you strongly believe in,"said Butler, who serves as Vice-chair of the Legislature's Housing Committee. "From both an economic and social perspective it is critical that we do everything we can to encourage vibrant neighborhoods in our cities."

Butler was honored during CCDA's National Community Development Week celebration at the State Armory in Hartford. Marilyn Diaz of the U.S. Housing and Urban Development agency was the featured speaker. Other honorees at the event included the Bristol Boys & Girls Club and Family Center for their neighborhood revitalization partnership.

Rep. Butler is a House Assistant Majority Leader, Vice-chair of the Housing Committee, and also a member of the Finance, Revenue & Bonding and Human Services Committees.

Waterbury State Representative Larry Butler (on left) receives the 2010 Connecticut Community Development Association's Legislator of the Year Award from CCDA President Thomas Ivers and Diane Toolan of the Waterbury Development Corporation.

The recent hearings held by the Judiciary Committee show that there is a great deal of work to be done to meet those goals. The process employed by the Judicial Selection Commission as well as its composition needs to dramatically change to better reflect and serve the people of Connecticut.

There are currently 187 judges of the Supreme, Appellate and Superior Court.¹ The table below displays their racial and ethnic breakdown.

Of these judges, 130 or 69.5% were male and 57 or 30.5% were female.

Members of the Caucus have expressed concern that the ethnic and racial composition of the bench is not reflective of our diverse state population. Our commitment is to seek remedy for, and support measures, which work to rectify this situation.

¹ This figure does not include senior judges or state referees.

2009 legislation created a task force to recommend how best to establish a Division of Administrative Hearings within CHRO. The division would conduct impartial hearings on contested cases brought by or before the departments of Children and Families, Transportation and Motor Vehicles, in addition to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners as well as CHRO.

"CHRO deals with sensitive issues of rights and justice, which require a fair and consistent hearing process," Butler said. "We will also have to look at federal guidelines and restrictions as well as potential funding issues for training and additional staff."

In addition to lawmakers and executive branch designees, task force membership includes representatives of the Connecticut Bar Association and the Permanent Commission on the Status of Women. Butler expects to begin by assessing the viability of placing such a division within CHRO and setting the scope of matters it will hear.

Butler said his panel will also consider the possibility of moving some current functions within CHRO, particularly related to affirmative action plan responsibilities and compliance, to the Department of Administrative Services and the Attorney General's office.

Butler, a member of the Legislature's Bonding Committee, said Waterbury can anticipate receiving $539,308, about the same level as last year, within 30 days after the Bond Commission acts Tuesday.

"These funds help stabilize local property taxes and put people to work on projects that need to be done," Butler said. "Though these important grants are coming later than expected this year, I am glad they are finally being released."

Also known as TAR, Town Aid for Roads grants are generally released in January and July each year. However, due to the state budget deficit, Governor Rell proposed borrowing to pay for this year's road funds via bonding instead of the traditional method of issuing grants as part of the state operating budget.