D'Agostino advocates for the release of the additional supplemental car tax reimbursement money

April 25, 2018

State Rep. Mike D'Agostino joined Bridgeport, Hamden and Torrington lawmakers and local elected officials to advocate for the release of the additional supplemental car tax reimbursement money needed to make each municipality whole during a press conference on April 25.

The three communities faced a motor vehicle tax reimbursement shortfall of more than $10 million collectively.

A portion of this shortfall was addressed earlier this month when the state Office of Policy and Management released $5 million from the stabilization fund dedicated for car tax reimbursements. This money was disbursed between the three municipalities. Bridgeport received $3.1 million in supplemental car tax reimbursement money, Hamden was given $856,025 and Torrington was awarded $603,276.

To help each municipality steady its bottom line, lawmakers said it is crucial for each town and city to receive the additional money needed to address the difference between the car tax cap and their higher mill rates.

D’Agostino said every other municipality in the state has been made whole except Bridgeport, Hamden and Torrington. Without the supplemental car tax reimbursement money, D’Agostino said teachers will be forced to take furlough days and Hamden will see a dramatic reduction in its services and programs.