“Blighted and abandoned properties have plagued our cities for too long. This Important legislation will be instrumental in holding absentee landlords and property owners responsible for cleaning up their properties or face hefty fines and eventual foreclosure if they willingly violate this law. I am proud to have to have sponsored this bill which I believe will help increase our tax base and improve the quality of life for Bridgeport residents,” Rep. Grogins said.

“We must make sure property and land owners in our cities maintain them as an important component of revitalization,” Rep Berger said. “Unkempt and garbage-strewn lots contribute to the perception of abandonment and increased crime.”

The bill requires towns that have housing blight ordinances to include in their regulations a written notice to the property's owner and occupant when a violation occurs to provide a reasonable opportunity to remediate the conditions before any enforcement action.

Current law allows fines of between $ 10 and $ 100 can be imposed for each day a violation continues. The new law allows fines of up to $250 per day for a willful failure to eliminate blighted conditions.

Senate Bill 364, An Act Concerning Traffic Stop Information, contains several provisions to augment legislation passed by the late Senator Alvin Penn from Bridgeport to compile and analyze data to determine racial bias in traffic stops and penalties. The Racial Profiling Act was passed in 1999 but has not been implemented consistently across Connecticut.

‘It’s about time we give this law the structure for proper state-wide implementation,” Rep. Charlie Stallworth said. “It is unfortunate it took this many years for proper legislative action, but I am very pleased to be a part of it.”

“With the recent documented and statistically significant proof that racial profiling exists in Connecticut, supporting this bill made sense.  The law needed strengthening and we have done that today,” Rep. Jack Hennessy said.

“This bill provides the language and framework that ensures these numbers need to be reported and that all Police departments are participating,” Rep. Andres Ayala said. “It has been thirteen years since the passage of the original legislation, so it appears this is the only avenue we had to ensure compliance.”

“This will finally allow Connecticut to systematically collect the information in the quantities needed for proper evaluation and policy decision making,” Rep. Auden Grogins said.

“The information gathered throughout the state will allow us to determine and address problem areas that would otherwise be allowed to continue with business as usual,” Rep. Don Clemons said. “I look forward to a more informed state and more honest and equitable enforcement of traffic laws.”

A recent analysis of more than 100,000 traffic stops by dozens of local police departments in 2011 found that black and Hispanic drivers are significantly more likely to receive a ticket or a court date than white drivers stopped for the same offense.

In order to address issues cited by law enforcement authorities across the state as a hindrance to data collection and submission, provisions of the bill include:

• Having the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) collect, compile and analyze data
• Creating a standard form across all police departments to make data collection easier and more consistent
• Training for police officers in the use and completion of the standard form
• Submitting an annual profiling report to the Governor, General Assembly and other pertinent parties
• Allows OPM to recommend an appropriate penalty, including the withholding of state funds, against a department that does not comply with the traffic stop provisions

Rep. Grogins told House members that her bill, House Bill 5489, An Act Concerning Nuisance Abatement, strengthens and expands the current law allowing prosecutors to bring legal actions to abate a public nuisance. The law can be utilized when a pattern has been established of illegal activity that seriously impacts the surrounding neighborhood.

This bill adds to the list of offenses qualifying as a public nuisance--violations of certain municipal ordinances, including the illegal operation of massage parlors. Under this new legislation, a court can order that a business or establishment be closed until the nuisance has been abated.

Following a vigorous debate for more than two hours, the legislation passed overwhelmingly in the House, with a vote of 131-18. The bill now awaits action by the Senate.

Bravo to Bridgeport Democratic state Rep. Auden Grogins for her bulldog advocacy of a bill that would help her city deal with the prurient blight of so-called massage parlors.

And bravo to the other 130 right-thinking members of the state House of Representatives who voted to pass a bill that cracks down on these operations, at least 19 of which are in the city.

The passed the bill despite the concerns of Republican suburban legislators that restrictions on these operations, including shutting them down, could pose a hardship for property owners and landlords.

Well, if there's a hardship for a property owner or landlord who uses his property in cavalier disregard of the neighborhood, so be it. And the fact is that absentee, suburbs-based landlords have long been a leading cause of blight in Bridgeport.

The bill passed Tuesday expands the embrace of public nuisances laws already on the books to include sexually oriented massage parlors.

The law would allow the state's attorney to bring civil action in the form of a fine, a compliance order or shutting down a property that is a public nuisance.

Combined with a bill that requires so-called masseuses to have state licenses, the expanded nuisance law could help shut down some of these businesses.

The House passed the bill by a vote of 131-18 and we urge the Senate to pass the measure with the same gusto.

“This extension helps the City of Bridgeport with another tool in the tool box to ensure we can make Steel Point happen.  Steel Point is an extremely important project for the city and as a delegation we want to make sure we give the administration the support they need to move forward,” Rep. Andres Ayala said.

“Steel point should be a major hub of maritime economic activity for Bridgeport,” Rep. Stallworth said. “We cannot avert our attention from the goal of making a developed waterfront part of our city’s landscape and this bill keeps the project alive.”

“I am pleased to support this critical funding for this project. Making Steel Point a reality is essential to Bridgeport's economic recovery,” Rep. Grogins said.

“It seems that everybody is waiting for the Steel Point Project to happen; all the traffic traveling on I95 through Bridgeport looks out to the empty expanse, year after the year, wondering when it'll be Bridgeport’s turn to turn around.  This bill helps keep the promise alive,” Rep. Hennessy said.

“For as long as I can remember, this parcel of prime harbor property has lain dormant. If Bridgeport is to enjoy a renaissance of economic prosperity, it cannot be without development and leveraging of the economic potential of this tract of land,” Rep. Clemons said.

“I truly believe that we will need no more extensions after this due to the progress that has been made to this point. We have resources in place such as the TIF and a commitment from the state to be an economic partner with the developer, Bridgeport Landing Development LLC, and the City of Bridgeport to make this project a reality. Permitting is moving forward and we are nearing the point where shovels meet the ground and a multi-million dollar mixed use development rises on prime waterfront property,” Rep. Santiago said.

“The developer has made major investments on the site and within the community and intends to see this project through. The Bridgeport Delegation is doing everything in its power to help facilitate a project we believe will jumpstart other proposed projects like the $500 million mixed use development on the Remington site. These projects have the potential to have huge positive impacts on the city’s tax rolls which is one of the best ways to provide relief to Bridgeport taxpayers while creating temporary and permanent jobs,” Rep. Santiago added.

The legislation extends, from June 30, 2012 to June 30, 2015, the deadline by which the Department of Economic and Community Development, Connecticut Development Authority and Connecticut Innovations, Inc. may provide up to $40 million in financial assistance from existing programs to the Steel Point project.

As under current law, the assistance must be used for developing and improving property in Bridgeport’s Steel Point.

The bill (HB 5455), which garnered over 40 bi-partisan co-sponsors, provides for state regulation of illegal massage establishments and makes it a crime to knowingly and willfully employ unlicensed massage therapists.

Rep. Grogins, Vice-Chair of Planning and Development where the bill originated, said, “For far too long, these businesses have been getting away with providing sexually oriented services under the guise of legitimate store fronts. I am pleased my colleagues in the House of Representatives agreed this is a bill that should be supported. Today’s vote sends a clear and strong message this illegal activity will no longer be tolerated.”

The bill adds “shiatsu", "acupressure" and "Thai massage" to the list of services that may not be offered or advertised at an unlicensed facility.

Last month, Rep. Grogins hosted concerned residents of Black Rock who testified in favor of the proposal when it was heard in the Planning and Development Committee. Residents have been concerned about illegal massage businesses in their neighborhood.

Collection of the GRT, which is a percentage of the wholesale price, would be capped whenever the price reaches $3.00 in the wholesale price per gallon or above.

The bill also contains provisions to protect consumers from profiteering and price gouging by big oil companies.

“Connecticut residents are struggling financially in this economy while gas and fuel prices continue to spiral out of control. I enthusiastically supported the passage of this bill as it was clear that we in the legislature had to take proactive measures to address this issue,” Rep. Grogins said.

SB 457 An Act Concerning A Cap On The Petroleum Products Gross Earnings Tax And Penalties For Abnormal Price Increases In Certain Petroleum Products, passed the General Assembly with overwhelming bipartisan support and heads to the governor’s office to be signed into law.

The legislation comes at a time when gasoline prices are climbing daily and is designed to bring consumers relief, especially before the heavy summer driving season begins.

Provisions of the bill include:

• Ensuring oil companies recognize the cap and do not increase their prices as if the cap doesn’t exist as this would constitute a CT Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA) violation.
• Amends the gas price gouging law so that intensely spiking wholesale gasoline prices are part of the definition of abnormal market disruptions. The bill adds an automatic trigger, that if wholesale prices spike by 15% within a 90 day period, the price gouging protections go into effect for at least one month.
• Legislatively declares an “abnormal market disruption” upon passage for a set period of 90 days in anticipation of further wholesale price spikes.
• Grants the Consumer Protection Commissioner the authority to impose CUTPA fines of up to $10,000 upon large gasoline wholesalers and distributors who are in violation of profiteering statutes.
• Ensures that similar profiteering protections are in place for home heating oil, which was selling for $3.389/gallon wholesale on March 19, over $4.00/gallon retail, and is not subject to the gross receipts tax.

This bill provides for state regulation of illegal massage establishments and makes it a crime to knowingly and willfully employ unlicensed massage therapists.

Rep. Grogins, Vice-chair of P&D, said, “Sexually oriented businesses have been masquerading as legitimate massage therapists for too long. For years, illicit massage therapy establishments have infiltrated our communities. These illegal businesses will no longer be tolerated and the offenders will face criminal penalties.”

The bill adds “shiatsu", "acupressure" and "Thai massage" to the list of services that may not be offered or advertised at an unlicensed facility.

At a recent public hearing on the legislation, Rep. Grogins hosted concerned residents of Black Rock who testified in favor of the proposal.

The bill awaits action by the full General Assembly.

Senate Bill 364, An Act Concerning Traffic Stop Information, contains several provisions to effectuate legislation passed by the late Senator Alvin Penn from Bridgeport to compile and analyze data to determine racial bias in traffic stops and penalties. The Racial Profiling Act was passed in 2003 but has not been implemented consistently across Connecticut.

“I am glad to see the bill pass this first hurdle, as a delegation we will continue to work to ensure our constituents are not being stopped just because they are African American or Latino. As we have seen with the example of East Haven, profiling does occur. We must protect our citizens and this legislation helps us to do that,” Rep. Andres Ayala said.

“Connecticut has had a decade to implement a consistent plan of data collection and it is unfortunate that we are still struggling to make that happen,” Rep. Charlie Stallworth said. “Let’s us delay no longer and pass this legislation this session to contribute to a more fair and just system.”

“Having the Office of Policy and Management handle the data collection and analysis is key to generating useful reports,” Rep. Auden Grogins said. “I will support this legislation and hope to see it signed into law.”

“Being a member of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, I am pleased to see that my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee agreed there is inequity in the state with racial profiling and revisited Alvin Penn’s legislation that has been on the books so long,” Rep. Don Clemons said. “The new provisions will facilitate implementation and will bring our police departments into compliance by bringing in the Office of Policy and Management and the Criminal Justice Information System Governing Board to oversee and make sure police departments are doing their jobs.”

“I remember, more than one time, where in my opinion I have been a victim of racial profiling which left me feeling very vulnerable to racism. No one should be made to feel this way, nor should anyone be allowed to behave in this manner towards others based on racial bias. I applaud the Judiciary Committee for passing this legislation. I also hope it makes it through the remaining legislative process and is eventually signed into law by the Governor,” Rep. Ezequiel Santiago said.

“Profiling can exist in towns as well as the cities,” Rep. Jack Hennessy said. “This legislation protects everyone against bias in traffic stops and penalties.”

A recent published analysis of more than 100,000 traffic stops by dozens of local police departments in 2011 found that black and Hispanic drivers are significantly more likely to receive a ticket or a court date than white drivers stopped for the same offense.

In order to address issues cited by law enforcement authorities across the state as a hindrance to data collection and submission, provisions of the bill include:

• Having the Office of Policy and Management collect, compile and analyze data
• Creating a standard form across all police departments to make data collection easier and more consistent
• Training for police officers in the use and completion of the standard form
• Submitting an annual profiling report to the Governor, General Assembly and other pertinent parties

HARTFORD — State lawmakers are proposing an antiblight bill that would quintuple fines in the worst cases of property neglect.

The legislation seeks to establish a sliding scale of penalties depending on how long the blighted conditions continue after property owners have been cited.

Under current law, a town or city that has adopted an antiblight ordinance may impose fines between $10 and $100 a day for each day violations are not corrected.

The bill would set a fine of $100 a day for the first 30 days.

The penalty would rise to $250 a day for the next 30 days. After 60 days, it would jump to $500 a day.

The Planning and Development Committee voted 16-4 Tuesday to advance the legislation with the understanding that supporters would continue refining the bill’s language.

The city of Waterbury is backing the legislation. City officials have been waging a vexing battle against blight there. A number of other cities are embroiled in the same struggle.

“It is a just a chronic problem in places like I live,” said Rep. Auden C. Grogins, D-Bridgeport, a leading supporter of the anti-blight bill.

She estimated that abandoned blighted properties in Bridgeport number in the thousands. It is the state’s most populous city.

“In one area of Bridgeport, almost every street has a deteriorated or dilapidated building which is a blight,” Grogins said. Sen. Leonard A. Fasano, R-North Haven, doubts that the anti-blight legislation is the solution to the problem. He is the ranking Senate Republican on the Planning and Development Committee.

Fasano said he fears towns and cities could use liens against blight fines to take properties more quickly than they could through foreclosures for back taxes. Other Republicans on the committee had the same concern about the potential for abuse.

“I am not sure that is where we want to be,” Fasano said.

The increased fines would provide more leverage against the worst blight offenders, said Michael Gilmore, neighborhood re-investment manager for the Waterbury Development Corp. and its blight specialist.

If property owners refuse to cooperate, the higher fines could induce cooperation, he said. However, he said, the most defiant may need more motivation.

“Some people may consider a $100 fine as the cost of doing business,” Gilmore said.

The city of Waterbury is asking the legislature to add criminal penalties to the legislation.

Gilmore said city officials are not necessarily looking for jail time, but fines and other consequences short of incarceration.

The thinking is that having to personally answer a criminal charge in Superior Court will get the attention of the most recalcitrant property owners, he said.

Also, defying a criminal court’s orders may give give people pause, he said.

“Our main goal in the city of Waterbury is to get the property clean,” Gilmore said.

The state’s largest association of municipal leaders supports the legislation. The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities says the bill will help towns and cities curb blight and make communities more livable.

The committee vote Wednesday moves the anti-blight bill a step closer to possible passage. The legislation still has a long journey ahead.

If a bill gets to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s desk, Grogins hopes Malloy will sign it because he served 14 years as mayor of Stamford, one of the state’s five largest cities.

She said she has not had any discussions with the governor’s office regarding the bill.

Grogins said the legislation’s supporters will continue to refine the bill, including incorporating suggestions from Republicans.

She offered to revisit the penalty provisions after Republicans on the Planning and Development Committee expressed reservations about the size of the proposed fines and the bill’s timetable. Republicans suggested possibly lowering fines and increasing the time periods between the incremental increases. Under current law, towns and cities may adopt anti-blight ordinances. The legislation would only affect municipalities that have an ordinance now or adopt one later.

“IN ONE AREA OF BRIDGEPORT, ALMOST EVERY STREET HAS A DETERIORATED OR DILAPIDATED BUILDING WHICH IS A BLIGHT.”

REP. AUDEN C. GROGGINS

“Education will feature prominently in the upcoming legislative session as Governor Malloy has expressed his intention of tackling major educational issues in the next session with the formation of the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) Task Force in August and the Achievement Gap Task Force,” Rep. Grogins said. “As the only member of the Bridgeport delegation serving on the Education Committee, I look forward to working with the Commissioner and my colleagues in Hartford to make sure Bridgeport receives its fair share of education dollars and is well represented in the legislative agenda and the task force’s recommendations.”

The ECS Task Force will review the effectiveness of the state’s ECS grant and how it relates to state constitutional requirements. The group is charged with the important task of developing recommendations on possible ways to change how money is divided up by school district. The Achievement Gap Task Force is assigned to study ways to close the achievement gap between wealthy and poor students.

Of particular interest to Rep. Grogins is the fact that Bassick is a Community, Parents, Administrators, Children, and Teachers, or ‘CommPACT,’ School. The CommPACT School model is the first-of-its-kind school reform program developed to address the achievement gap issues in Connecticut's public schools and to create a more vibrant learning environment.

“CommPACT schools have seen a rise in student performance and more efficient operational structures and I am very interested in pursuing this concept and model further if it continues to be successful,” Rep. Grogins said. “We must emphasize what works if we are to make a sincere effort to improve public education.”

The primary stakeholders involved in public education, including community members, parents, administrators, children, and teachers, worked as a collaborative team to develop the CommPACT School model. Though still accountable to their local districts, CommPACT Schools have autonomy to make changes – a departure from traditional top-down models of organization.

“Bridgeport that has a high percentage of English language learners and a myriad of issues reflected in testimony presented to the task force on behalf of Bridgeport. I am committed to working to address education issues as the legislative session convenes in February,” Rep. Grogins added. “I would like to thank Commissioner Pryor for his proactive approach and willingness to learn about the successes and challenges facing Bridgeport’s schools. This will be a productive session for our state’s students.”

“Keeping Bridgeport in the Fourth Congressional District is in the best interest of everyone concerned – especially when it comes to petitioning government on important issues. I have, and will continue to voice my constituents’ concerns to legislative leadership and members of the reapportionment commission. I am determined that we will not be ignored in this process,” Rep. Hennessy said.

“It is obvious to me that the proposed plan to move Bridgeport out of the Fourth Congressional District is purely political.  One of the ideas behind redistricting is to give minorities a strong voice in as many districts as possible,” Rep Grogins said. “Moving Bridgeport would have enormously negative consequences for minorities in the Fourth District.”

“Also, in terms of competiveness, the Fourth District has been represented by Democrats and Republicans over the years, so competiveness has more to do with the strength of individual candidates than with how the district is currently constituted. And, finally, our ‘community of interest’ is Fairfield County. That’s where we identify ourselves in terms of business and economics, and it is with the cities and towns of Fairfield County that we share common threads,” Rep. Grogins added.

“The site of this second rail station will spur further economic development. Currently, the City of Bridgeport has numerous projects in this area which would be well served by the second station,” Rep. Ayala said. “This could be the spark which ignites further investment opportunities and better jobs and housing for our residents. As chairman of the Bonding Subcommittee on Transportation I am pleased to see this project move forward.”

“This project will address one of the barriers to economic activity which is lack of access to public transportation,” Rep. Clemons said. “This project encompasses blight, pollution and transportation with increased avenues for economic activity. This is money well-spent and I am eager to see the work begin.”

"The state’s investment in the revitalization of this significant brownfield property is essential to our future economic success. Giving additional access to our Bridgeport commuters to New York and other major Connecticut cities is key to making Bridgeport a destination city. It is also a key factor in drawing more businesses to our area and making Bridgeport more attractive as a residential community,” Rep. Grogins said. “With the prior attention having been given to Fairfield’s new train station, I am excited and hopeful that the prospect of a new train station in Bridgeport will shift the focus for future economic development in our city."

“It’s good to see that Bridgeport is getting its fair share of state dollars,” Rep. Hennessy said. “Brownfield remediation is long overdue. This project will spur economic development in a blighted area of this city.”

“Cleaning contaminated brownfield sites and putting them back into productive use will be a key factor in our efforts to increase the cities taxable grand list. This is an effective way to provide tax relief for our property and business owners,” Rep. Santiago said. “Adding to our public transportation infrastructure will help lower our carbon footprint, while the additional commuter traffic will provide opportunity for increased business at existing venues as well as a greater need for new businesses to be established.”

“This contaminated brownfield has been dormant for many years and it is great to see it finally getting some attention,” Rep. Stallworth said. “When you combine the remediation with a new train station, Bridgeport and residents are poised to reap many benefits from this project.”

The funds will support on site remediation efforts on the 7-acre parcel on Barnum Avenue and will help with the area’s revitalization initiatives. Bridgeport was the successful recipient of a Sustainable Communities Grant Award to explore the feasibility of a second station at this site. The planned station will serve to expand transportation options for commuters that have difficulties accessing the current downtown station.

“I am very excited to support this Jobs bill which focuses on helping small businesses and reduces their tax burden. As a small business owner for the past 22 years, I can honestly say that this bill will help sustain and expand existing businesses, stimulate job growth and attract new business entrepreneurs to Connecticut,” Rep. Grogins said. “I also look forward to welcoming Jackson Labs to Connecticut. Their success will be our success. This state of the art facility for research and testing in genomic medicine will create thousands of job opportunities in the area of bio-science for Connecticut residents, and put our state on the world map in this rapidly growing field.”

“I am pleased to support this bill because many of my constituents have emphatically stressed to me the importance of jobs,” Rep. Ayala said. “The State of Connecticut is not just standing by any longer - we are providing leadership to create jobs to get through this rough economy and to prepare CT for a brighter future.”

"Although I am very pleased with the legislation to help create jobs and bring Jackson Labs to Ct, I believe we need to stimulate economic development in our urban centers, especially Bridgeport. I am glad we are moving forward to begin the process of cleaning up our Brownfield properties. We need to get these old industrial sites back and contributing to the future of CT,” Rep. Hennessy said.

“These bills were made into law in order to both make the necessary investments in infrastructure which allows CT to be the home of one of the most technologically advanced research facilities in the world and to incentivize training and job creation in the private sector,” Rep. Santiago said. “These are steps which are necessary to take advantage of the budding bioscience industry and to assure the private sector that CT is indeed open for business and that the Legislature is willing to work towards a friendlier business climate. I plan to work to ensure that the people and businesses in Bridgeport take full advantage the resources made available through this legislation.”

"I'm glad to see us take a strong act concerning an issue that is important to all of us -- jobs. Though this is not a perfect step, it is a giant step in a direction that is good for the citizens of Connecticut,” Rep. Stallworth said. “These two bills will have a great impact on employment in particular and the economy in general, as well as a great step in the area of medical research."

“These two pieces of legislation follow what the governor was committed to for economic development to attract business in the state, put people back to work, and jump start the economy,” Rep. Clemons said.

“Also, Jackson Labs will make the state competitive with others in the biomedical field. Hopefully, the research will lead to personalized treatment and more effective combating and curing of today’s and tomorrow’s diseases.”

The goal of the legislation is to jump-start job creation and foster long-term economic growth. Incentives for small business, cutting red tape, incentives for innovation, economic development tools and workforce development and training are all addressed in the bill.

One of the key components of the legislation is the Small Business Express Package which will make $50 million/year available to small businesses through incentives, grants and loans.

Another vital component is aligning programs at vo-tech schools, community colleges and universities with high demand job needs of employers, including the state’s manufacturing technology companies.

Other components of the jobs bill include:

• Consolidating and increasing the tax credit for new hires
• Incentivizing investments in emerging technology (Angel Investors)
• Building innovation centers in key cities and investing in innovative ventures
• A second “First Five” program
• Cutting the business entity tax
• Streamlining the business permitting process
• Remediating old industrial sites/brownfields
• Computer upgrades to foster seamless communication between business and the state
• Workforce development, education and training
• Allowing the Airport Authority to designate new Development Zones
• Investments in roads and bridges
• Replenishing the Manufacturing Assistance Act (MAA)
• Main Street commercial centers improvement initiative

In addition, the legislature signed off on Jackson Laboratory’s plan to build a $1.1 billion research facility at the UConn Health Center campus in Farmington. The State of Connecticut will invest $291 million and Jackson Laboratory will raise the balance of $860 million for the project.

According to the state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), the project is expected to create over 660 positions at Jackson Laboratory in Farmington within 20 years. DECD estimates more than 4,600 bioscience jobs would be generated through spin-off companies, and another 2,000 would be added to local service and area retail stores. The project would yield more than 840 construction jobs as well.

“The Bridgeport port has always been an important tool for economic development for the City and will be the economic driver to spur further development. Housatonic Community College has always been an important partner with the City and, in these tough economic times, where our constituents are going back to school to further enhance their skills, it is important the school be able to continue expanding and enhancing their facility to meet student needs,” Rep. Ayala said.

“I would like for Bridgeport to regain its prominence as a major hub of maritime economic activity that its deep-water port afforded in its active years. Steel point harbor development has been a priority for some time as a jobs engine and to reduce congestion on our major thoroughfares,” Rep. Clemons said. “Housatonic community college is an excellent learning environment and integral part of the community that is steadily growing in enrollment from when I attended. I will continue to support investment in this school which is a key component of a viable community.”

“This important funding is critical to further Bridgeport’s economic development plan. These improvements will make Housatonic Community College a state of the art educational institution in our city. Investing in our deep water ports is valuable for Bridgeport’s future in making our city a key destination for tourism in Connecticut,” Rep. Grogins said.

“The funding for Housatonic will be to begin refurbishing the original tech building due to the anticipated continued increase in student enrollment. This school is important to the city as a gateway for Urban residents to access affordable higher education,” Rep. Hennessy said. “I am also pleased funding was allocated for a port study. This is long overdue as a port development goes hand-in-hand with the overall strategic plan to address and preserve the watershed and create good jobs.”

“There is a reason why enrollment at Housatonic Community College has increased dramatically in recent years. Affordable tuition, convenient location by the cities’ transportation hub and a great faculty are just some of them. Many people I know in the district I represent and abroad have used the education they have received at Housatonic to improve their quality of life. Working to help with the expansion and renovation will be necessary to accommodate the needs of the growing student body,” Rep. Santiago said. “It is important for us to keep the deep water port designation if the Bridgeport Harbor port is to remain a viable source of commerce and trade in our region. There are jobs that currently rely on the ports operation and we must take advantage of opportunities to create new jobs through economic development strategies that are vital to Bridgeport residents. Growing our local tax base through economic development is a way to decrease the current tax burden on our residential home owners.”

The State Bond Commission approved $1,000,000 to study economic development strategies in several port cities including Bridgeport. Bridgeport officials have long worked on marina development due to its strategic waterfront location.

Another item on the agenda for Friday is funding in the amount of $4,669,770 for the implementation of phase III of the master plan for renovations and additions and renovations of the 183,000 square foot Lafayette Hall at Housatonic Community College. The project includes new and renovated science labs, an expanded the library, new computer labs and general purpose classrooms.

Almost $10 million in state school construction funds will be used to renovate Black Rock School and construct a 25,579 square-foot addition to it to make it a K-8 elementary school. Upgrades and improvements are also planned to the fire protection, lighting and energy management systems. Currently Black Rock School serves students from kindergarten to 6th grade.

A state school construction grant of more than $56 million dollars will be used to fund a 39,941 square-foot addition to Central High School, as well as improvements and renovations to Central’s auditorium and upgrades to the school’s technology, lighting, security, windows and HVAC systems.

"Our Bridgeport students deserve these long-awaited additions and improvements,” said Rep. Grogins, Bridgeport’s only representative on the Education Committee. “They will enhance the educational environment for the teachers and students and make that environment more conducive to learning. I have been working hard to secure these grants for a long time and I am proud to deliver this wonderful news to my constituents at the end of a long and difficult legislative session."

The funding is part of a school construction package passed by the Connecticut General Assembly this month.

In 2009, Rep. Grogins secured $22 million in school construction funds to improve and renovate Longfellow Elementary School.

"This is one of the most important pieces of legislation that we have passed this session. Over the past few years, Connecticut has lost more than 100,000 jobs. As legislators, we must make it our priority to put people back to work, as that is the only way to jump start our economy. Investing in job growth, by focusing on high technology and manufacturing jobs, as we have done in this bill, is a major step towards achieving that goal. It is for these reasons, that I am proud to be a co-sponsor of that bill," Rep. Grogins said.

“This is one of the most important pieces of legislation this year. The fact that it received unanimous bipartisan support shows that we can work together and achieve concrete results that will help create and retain manufacturing and technology-based jobs for the long-term,” House Majority Leader Brendan Sharkey (D-88th) said. “Incentives and a strong network between investors, academics and the state can transform Connecticut into a center of innovation that can be a magnet for entrepreneurs, talented people and great ideas to take root.”

The goal of the legislation is to jump-start job creation in the state. It lays a foundation for long-term economic growth, provides incentives for entrepreneurship and innovation, and makes investments in manufacturing and education are all contained in the bill.

The legislation is an outgrowth of the Majority Leaders’ Job Growth Roundtable initiative that was led by House Majority Leader Sharkey and Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney (D-11th District). In addition to lawmakers, the roundtable was made up of academics, economists, labor and business leaders, and venture capitalists.

Specifically, the Job Growth Roundtable’s recommendations reflected in HB 6525 include:

• Investing in business growth – Positions Connecticut to be an innovation leader by driving technology-based economic development and manufacturing reinvestment.

• Student loan reimbursement for green tech degrees - Students can qualify for up to $2,500 or 5 percent of annual tuition for 4 years.

• A manufacturing reinvestment fund - Expands and protects manufacturing base through new tax-preferred account where machinery, equipment or facilities can be purchased. Up to $50,000 can be used by 50 manufacturers with 50 or less employees for up to 5 years to reinvest and grow their businesses. Account disbursements are taxed at only 3.5 percent.

• An innovation network created in government – DECD will organize technology leaders and entrepreneurs, to increase the state’s innovation competitiveness using incentives and financial support to strengthen the bond between universities and industry. In partnership with federal research funds, the bill increases corporate-sponsored research and establishes an innovation accelerator linking universities and corporations to start-up technology companies. It strengthens technology transfers and entrepreneurship activities at UConn and links angel networks and incubators.

The bill is now headed to the Senate for consideration.

“This budget contains fewer taxes and less spending than the Governor’s original proposal and has key provisions that protect taxpayers in Bridgeport and across the state,” Rep. Grogins said.

As a result of a concerted effort by Rep. Grogins and colleagues, the state budget includes a restored property tax credit of $300, the elimination of a proposed gas tax increase, funding for the Beardsley Zoo and Discovery Museum and full funding for education. The budget also restores numerous tax exemptions on services including, but not limited to, barber and beauty services, car washes, aviation services, and boat repairs.

“We were able to keep municipalities fully funded, allowing local governing bodies to rely on those funds as they work on their budgets and protecting taxpayers from increases in their property taxes,” Rep. Grogins said.

Those efforts paid off last week when the Governor and top Democratic leaders of the Connecticut General Assembly announced a revised budget agreement, restoring $300 (60%) of the property tax credit. The agreement also restored numerous tax exemptions on services including, but not limited to, barber and beauty services, car washes, and boat repairs. It also fully funded municipalities, which will relieve pressure on local property taxes for taxpayers and homeowners.

Grogins organized nearly five dozen legislators through a petition to Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan arguing against the elimination of the property tax credit.

“I believe my efforts had a significant impact on the Governor’s decision to substantially restore the property tax credit,” Rep. Grogins said. “I voiced my strong opposition to this budget proposal not only to fellow legislators but to the Governor’s Chief of Staff, the Speaker, and the Majority Leader. I am pleased they recognized my concerns about what I considered an unreasonable tax increase that unfairly targets residents in my district who pay among the highest property taxes in the state.”

“I thank Governor Malloy for listening to our concerns and I will continue to work towards easing the burden on our property taxpayers,” Grogins added.

The NCSL Law and Criminal Justice Committee is one of 12 standing committees of the National Conference of State Legislatures that works on state-federal issues related to a broad range of matters including federalism and preemption issues, constitution and constitutional law, civil rights and liability issues.

“I am honored to receive this important appointment by Speaker Donovan and believe that my 21 years of experience as an attorney in this field will allow me to bring an important perspective to this committee,” Rep. Grogins said.

“I have no reservations about this appointment,” said Speaker Donovan. “Given Rep. Grogins’ extensive experience in the criminal justice system, this appointment needed very little deliberation.”

The National Conference of State Legislatures is a bipartisan organization that provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and to advocate for the interests of states in the American federal system.

 “We want to provide local governments with the flexibility to ease the property tax burden on people who are struggling to make ends meet.” Rep Grogins said about the bill that now awaits action by the General Assembly. The bill (SB 898) authorizes municipalities to give aide to struggling homeowners by assessing their property at a lower rate.

The Planning and Development Committee, where Grogins sits as a vice chair, also passed another property tax relief bill which orders a study to determine ways that municipalities can pass on tax credits to taxpayers, through savings they realize from regionalism efforts.

“Our property taxpayers need a break,” Rep. Grogins said. “The original intent of this legislation was to provide an incentive to municipalities to look for ways to cooperate with neighboring communities and pass those savings on to taxpayers. This bill is a step in the right direction, but I will continue to advocate for regionalism as a way to save taxpayer dollars.”

Grogins also sits as a member of the Education and Judiciary Committees of the General Assembly.

“I am honored to serve as Vice chairperson of such an important committee. As part of Speaker Donovan’s leadership team I will ensure my constituents have a greater voice at the State Capitol,” Rep. Grogins said.

“As we strive to find efficiencies in government and tackle a difficult budget cycle, I need the best people in the best positions,” Rep. Donovan said. “I know Auden will continue to serve with dedication, commitment and attention to detail I have come to expect from her.”

The announcement was made at a news conference held by Rep. Donovan to name committee chairs and Democratic caucus leadership positions for the 2011 session of the General Assembly. The Planning and Development Committee has oversight over state and regional planning, zoning, sewer and water districts and economic development.

Rep. Grogins represents the 129th district in Bridgeport. In addition to serving as Vice Chair of Planning and Development, she serves on the Education Committee and will serve on the Judiciary Committee in this upcoming legislative session.

HARTFORD — Bridgeport’s legislative delegation on Thursday asked Gov.-elect Dan Malloy to negotiate a settlement on a pending statewide lawsuit over education funding that would require more money for improving Connecticut schools.

Without a deal, the case could drag on until 2014 or longer.

At stake is the future of thousands of public-school kids like Stephanie Illingworth, 13 and Angel Pizarro, 15, who are coping with old, graffiti-spoiled books and drastic cuts to in-class services in one of the state’s poorest cities.

During a morning news conference, city lawmakers led by Rep. Christopher L. Caruso, Rep. Andres Ayala Jr., Rep. Auden Grogins and Sen. Anthony Musto, all Democrats, said more money for schools is the key, but it’s up to Malloy to decide on how to increase funding. Pizarro, a sophomore at Harding High School, who is a plaintiff in the case, said there are many obstacles to learning.

“Our students have books that are old, worn out and aren’t in good condition,” he said, noting many are scrawled inside with profanity from earlier generations of pupils who gave up. “Teachers go out of their way and use their own money to go to Staples and buy paper for students to do homework with or so they can print out tests for us to do,” Pizarro said.

Another plaintiff, Illingworth, an eighth-grader at John Winthrop School, said there are teachers who are very good in her school and others who could be better. “We used to have math and literacy teachers and with budget cuts, they are all gone,” she said.

A spokesperson for Malloy said the incoming governor would weigh the request.

“Gov.-elect Malloy’s most immediate goal in education is to hold cities harmless of Gov. Rell’s cuts to the (school funding) formula,” said spokesperson Colleen Flanagan.

“He thanks the Bridgeport delegation for their interest in providing the best possible public school education to children in their city, and will consider their request.” Caruso, revealing details of a meeting he had this week with Malloy, said that a wide variety of solutions, including changes to the property tax, income and sales taxes should be considered when the General Assembly convenes – and Malloy takes office – Jan. 5.

Without a settlement, the 2005 case filed by the Connecticut Coalition for Justice in Education Funding, representing students in towns and cities throughout the state, against Gov. M. Jodi Rell could stretch out for several more years before it heads back to the state Supreme Court, which ruled in March that all state children have a right to and effective and meaningful education.

“ We believe the governor-elect needs to begin those discussions to avoid that legal battle, most importantly to help those students of our state,” Caruso said.

Ayala, a public school teacher, said the achievement gap between urban centers and schools is affluent towns is among the nation’s highest.

“Bridgeport is a key, key component of that achievement gap,” Ayala said.

“We’ve seen the inequality in education that our children are receiving. I see it every single day, in the classroom.”

He said city schools lack good teachers and administrators in the classroom, as well as computers and other resources.

“We want to work hand in hand with our new governor to talk about what those inequalities are, inequities are,” Ayala said, recalling that during his successful gubernatorial campaign, Malloy spoke of the challenges facing state schools.

“We’re basically here to tell the state of Connecticut that our delegation is going to make this a priority going forward, to make sure that we address this achievement gap issue and this funding inequality issue,” Ayala said.

Grogins, a former school board member and a current member of the legislative Education Committee, said the issue will be the most important for the city’s delegation. “Cities like Bridgeport are disproportionately affected by the poor performing schools, by school dropouts and by one of the largest achievement gaps in the nation,” she said. “Closing our achievement gap directly equates with strengthening the future of our children and their success and that goes hand-in-hand with improving our economy.”

Diane Kaplan deVries, the coalition’s project director, said that the Bridgeport lawmakers are the first among the statewide group of plaintiffs to ask for Malloy to reach a settlement. “Indeed the time is ripe to end the unfathomable action of the state in fighting school children’s rights to equal educational opportunity and the resources necessary to ensure same,” she said. “It has already been nine months since the Connecticut Court ruled that school children have a constitutional right to a quality education and that it’s the state’s obligation to pay for it.” Despite law requiring higher support for public schools, Bridgeport receives only 38 percent of its education funding from the state. About 95 percent of the city’s 20,000 students are from low-income families; and 40 percent live in homes where English is not the primary language.

This year’s Supreme Court ruling remanded the case back to Hartford Superior Court where plaintiffs now have to prove that the state is inadequately funding schools and failing its constitutional mandate.

“We have crystal-clear indicators of an uncon­stitutional school-finance system,” she said.

“The health and welfare of Connecticut and its residents is of utmost importance to me. I will continue to support any legislation that promotes causes that support a healthy environment,” Rep. Grogins said.

The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a bipartisan, statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut's environment by advocating environmentally beneficial legislation. The group identifies and highlights important bills that affect air, water, wildlife, open space, and health.

CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard assesses both lawmakers’ votes on environmental legislation and their roles in championing specific issues. Environmental issues this year included energy reform, expansion of recycling, energy efficient products and integrated pest management.

The plan, which was approved by the General Assembly prior to the constitutional adjournment date of May 5, includes $170 million in spending cuts across a host of state agencies and a reduction of $300 million from a previous borrowing plan. There is also hundreds of millions of dollars in savings from a shorter term and lower interest rate on the issuance of $956 million in Economic Recovery Bonds (ERBs).

"I am pleased that we found a compromise that finalized this budget adjustment in a timely manner," Ayala said. "While we had tough decisions to make, I am delighted to see important programs preserved that will be beneficial to the entire state."

"I am glad that we were able to get a budget done without the need for special session.  Not only does this save the state money, but it also shows our constituents that we put a budget forward that the Governor feels is worthy of her support," Santiago said. "Protecting the most vulnerable has always been a high priority of mine, because so many of the same people who benefit from these critical services supported my effort to be their representative and I feel good that I did not let them down. We have passed legislation this year that will be key for job growth, eliminating the achievement gap and lowering utility costs.  This budget is another piece of legislation that I am proud to have supported."

"In these difficult economic times when the state is facing an unprecedented budget deficit, I am proud to support such a fiscally responsible budget that does not raise taxes on my constituents, lowers electric rates and does not cut municipal aide," Grogins said.

"We know we have a good bill when both sides are not entirely happy with the budget. This budget, however, does not cut aide to municipalities, does not raise taxes, and does not borrow as much as we had anticipated," Clemons said. "We were able to finalize a budget in time and were able to keep important funding in place without new taxes."

The ERBs have an eight year term at a low interest rate of 3% and will be paid off using a small portion (one third) of two current charges on electric bills. As part of the budget, customers will see one of the charges reduced by over 60%. The net result for most electric customers will be a savings of about $5 per month. As the economy continues to recover and revenues grow, the ERBs can be paid off earlier.

In addition, as an alternative to entering a much more expensive nursing home setting, seniors will see up to a $300 per month cost reduction for certain home care services that will save taxpayers millions of dollars over the long term. AARP has endorsed the home care program.

"This is the first real and meaningful step towards property tax reform for our residents. The passage of this legislation establishes mandate relief and government efficiencies that will produce millions of dollars in future savings for our cities and towns. These savings can then be directed to property tax relief for our over-burdened taxpayers. I look forward to continuing my work to restructure and downsize government to affect real savings for our cities and towns," Rep. Grogins said.

The legislation:

• Establishes a grant to municipalities whose boards of education make a regional arrangement for their school transportation (HB 5336).

• Allows two or more municipalities or local or regional boards of education to collectively purchase health insurance for their employees
  (HB 5424).

• Eases mandates on towns and relinquishes local taxpayers of the financial responsibility of storing evicted tenant's possessions (HB 5255).

Since January, the MORE Commission has been studying ways to restructure government at all levels across the state, create operating efficiencies and save money for municipalities. The commission is comprised of legislators, representatives of municipalities, regional organizations, education, business, unions and non-profit groups.

Additional information on the Speaker's Blue Ribbon Commission on Municipal Opportunities & Regional Efficiencies (MORE) is available online at: www.housedems.ct.gov/MORE/.

"This measure shows we can come to a bipartisan agreement without compromising indispensable aid to municipalities," Rep. Grogins said, "We must continue to work together to face future deficit challenges while protecting vital programs that will spur economic growth."

The deficit mitigation legislation avoided the drastic cuts proposed earlier by the governor - including $9 million to town aid and programs for small businesses, manufacturing, low-income health care, and seniors as well blocking a controversial new hospital tax - opting instead for a package of responsible cuts spread across state agencies.

The package also included a timely provision that will reduce last year's increase on state park fees and hunting and fishing licenses. Increased Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) fines for violators, such as the minimum fine for speeding increasing from $35 to $50, will cover the cost. This change would go into effect immediately - in time for the start of Connecticut's fishing season and the state parks' busy summer season.

The bill now heads to the State Senate for consideration.

"As Vice-Chair of the State Grant and Mandate Relief Sub-Committee, I believe we have done an excellent job finding efficiencies and cost-cutting measures which will benefit cities and towns in reducing their overhead," Rep. Grogins stated. "We must continue this important work to ensure the future viability of our cities and to embark on effectuating property tax reform."

Some of the recommendations the MORE Commission outlined in its preliminary report include:

• Empowering multi-town groups to create permanent revenue streams
• Decreasing and eliminating costly mandates on local governments
• Increasing efficiencies by consolidating regional services
• Removing barriers to health care purchasing cooperatives

Some of the ideas being considered to carry out the recommendations include repealing web site posting requirements, eliminating statutory barriers to multi-town cooperation and promoting regional economic development strategies through federal grants.

The MORE Commission is comprised of 45 members of the House of Representatives and representatives of municipalities, regional organizations, education, business, unions and non-profits.

Members have been studying ways to restructure government at all levels across the state and create operating efficiencies that save money for municipalities since January. The key findings of the first phase will be incorporated into legislation that will be used to facilitate action during this legislative session.

The Blue Ribbon Commission on Municipal Opportunities and Regional Efficiencies (MORE) began its work this week with the goal of recommending legislation during the 2010 session.

"Regionalism is critical to encourage cities and towns to work together to decrease costs and promote economic growth. That will be a key to real property tax reform," Rep. Grogins said. "Finding efficiencies and new ways of doing business through regional cooperation will jumpstart that process. I am proud to participate in a leadership role in this important initiative, and I look forward to the positive change that our efforts will generate."

The sub-committee is charged with, among other things, identifying areas for mandate relief, determining the costs and cost effectiveness associated with identified mandates and evaluating alternatives.

The MORE Commission is comprised of 45 Democratic members of the House of Representatives and representatives of municipalities, regional organizations, education, business, unions and non-profits.

The Commission will look at a wide spectrum of issues and opportunities facing municipalities: multi-town collaboratives, Board of Education functions, regionally-based organizations, collective bargaining, mandates, revenue sources, health care, and state grants. In each of these areas, commission subcommittees will investigate costs, benefits, resources, legal obstacles and opportunities, potential savings, consolidation, and results-based accountability (RBA) methods for tracking performance.

"We can be doing more with less," Speaker Donovan said. "These dedicated members of the Bridgeport Delegation and MORE will help us find these new ways to help our cities and towns. I am confident we can bring about real property tax reform by regionalizing certain activities that can both save money and improve the economic competitiveness of our state."

"We've talked for a long time about restructuring government at all levels across the state," said Rep. Merrill. "Now we're going to take action. I'm excited about the chance to bring some relief to our cities and towns and to bring about the kind of structural change that can deliver benefits for years to come."

The MORE Commission will be comprised of 45 Democratic members of the House of Representatives and representatives of municipalities, regional organizations, education, business, unions and non-profits.

The Commission will look at a wide spectrum of issues and opportunities facing municipalities: multi-town collaboratives, Board of Education functions, regionally-based organizations, collective bargaining, mandates, revenue sources, health care, and state grants. In each of these areas, commission subcommittees will investigate costs, benefits, resources, legal obstacles and opportunities, potential savings, consolidation, and results-based accountability (RBA) methods for tracking performance.

The Research Associates Program (RAP), spearheaded by Dr. Keith Bradley, allows students interested in careers as health professionals to volunteer in the St. Vincent's emergency room to educate and screen patients on a number of public health threats. The students are trained to interview patients and their families. They use the time spent in the waiting room to provide public health education and disease prevention information.

"This program offers the potential for large-scale public health interventions, such as initiating tobacco cessation referrals, cancer screenings, and diabetes prevention at minimal cost with a host of positive derivative benefits," said Dr. Bradley who testified before the Appropriations Committee last Monday.

Each year the Tobacco and Health Trust Fund seeks legislative approval for the programs they support. While the St. Vincent's program was widely praised by legislators, limited resources in the fund forced intense conversations about which programs are most effectively fulfilling their assigned mission. Representative Fawcett worked closely with Dr. Bradley over the past several months to prepare for the hearing.

"I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to advocate for a program that has a direct impact on public health in our region," Rep. Fawcett said. "This program is seeing results and if we target these resources effectively and grow the program it becomes a win-win for us all."

"St. Vincent's is an important asset to Bridgeport and the region," Representative Grogins said. "It is critical that urban and suburban legislators work as at team as our joint efforts will benefit the entire region."

With legislative approval in place, Dr. Bradley and the Research Associates Program have a clear path to applying for additional valuable Tobacco Settlement funds to grow the program in the region and expand the model to other hospitals across the state. The money in the Tobacco and Health Trust Fund is transferred to Connecticut each year as part of the Federal Tobacco Settlement Fund and does not rely on state tax payer dollars.

"I am thankful to Representatives Fawcett and Grogins for their advocacy and willingness to fight for the RAP program. Their work will help us see these programs expand and reach more people," Dr. Bradley added.