Legislative Update November 3

November 3, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope you and your family are enjoying the cooler weather of this year’s autumn.

As we move closer to Election Day on Tuesday, I want to take a moment to reflect on the recent Halloween festivities and the themes that surround this time of year. Halloween, with its emphasis on creativity and imagination, reminds us of the power of self-expression and the importance of acceptance. Our diverse society is a tapestry of unique perspectives, and it is crucial that we foster an environment where everyone feels safe and included, no matter their background or beliefs.

I encourage everyone to participate in our democratic process, and I would ask that we reflect on the importance diversity in democracy as we move closer to Election Day : that our diverse opinions, and our ability to express them, is a part of what makes our government a stronger and more understanding place.
Further in this message you will find more detailed information on the resources I have helped secure for Stamford, the policies I have supported, and upcoming programs and events that I hope will be useful to you and your family.

FUNDING FOR STAMFORD - AVON THEATRE

The State Bond Commission allocated funds to several Stamford based projects during their meeting a few weeks ago. Today, I would like to highlight the Avon Theatre, which will receive $1.94 million for a renovation project.

The funds will be used to build a new roof for the facility, repair and replace masonry and brickwork, and ADA compliance work on lifts and restrooms.

The arts are the foundation of any thriving community. The Avon Theatre has been a cornerstone of Stamford for a number of years, and this funding will help them continue their great work.

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY

I am proud to share that the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters has given me a 94% on their 2023 Environmental Scorecard. The CLCV releases an annual report card which grades each legislator based on their voting record on environment bills. I look forward to continue advocating and expanding upon issues that benefit the state of Connecticut.

VETERANS CORNER: INFORMATIONAL PUBLIC HEARING

The Veterans and Military Affairs Committee will host a public hearing on Wednesday, November 8^th from 1pm-4pm in Room 2C. You can also participate remotely and share testimony online. The purpose of this event is to gather feedback from members of the public regarding veterans affairs in preparation for our upcoming legislative session. Please see the flyer below for any additional questions.

IOREBETA GRANT PROGRAM

The Housing Advisory Panel voted on Friday to approve one-time grant funding awards as part of the Interest on Real Estate Brokers Trust Account (IOREBTA) Program. Two organizations that service our community, Pacific House and Building One Community, received grant money.

Pacific House will receive $20,000, and Building One Community will receive $10,000.

IOREBTA Program funds annually support appraisal gap financing for first-time homebuyers, development of affordable housing projects, counseling for low- and moderate-income homebuyers, and second mortgage down payment assistance when the Down Payment Assistance Program (DAP) Loan was suspended. The IOREBTA Program has also funded the purchase of mortgages from Connecticut chapters of Habitat for Humanity and other housing subsidies. This year's grant awards include help for intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) and Veterans' housing, low-income and affordable housing and homelessness assistance and prevention programs.

This grant funding will go toward helping Open Doors "make a home" for individuals and families who are moving from the shelter to supportive and affordable housing. Funding will be used to support utility deposits for new rentals, utility arrearages, security deposits, first month rental payments, furniture and much more.

Thank you to the Housing Advisory Panel, including State Rep. Geoff Luxenberg, Co-Chair of the Housing Committee and Panel, for approving this grant.

STAMFORD ARTS AND CULTURE GRANT

The application period is now open for the Stamford Arts & Culture (SAC) Grant. This funding goes toward arts and cultural programming, as well as art projects in our community. Since 2018, the grant has been administered by the Stamford Arts & Culture Commission. This year, the city has generously allocated $191,500 in funding for the Arts & Culture Commission to distribute to nonprofit organizations and artists.

Applications are due before 11:59 PM on Tuesday, November 21st. To apply or for more information on eligibility requirements, please click here.

Through project-based funding, SAC aims to enhance public participation in and accessibility to various art forms, foster the creation of outstanding art, promote lifelong learning in the arts, and integrate the arts into the fabric of community life.

Access Health CT's Open Enrollment Period is Now Open

Access Health CT's (AHCT) Open Enrollment Period for 2024 is now open. During this period, individuals can enroll for the first time, renew their coverage, and explore the various policy options to see which will be the most beneficial.

If you are interested and have questions about the program, there are several ways to receive free assistance:

In-person: There are in-person enrollment locations and events taking place across Connecticut. Find more information at accesshealthct.com/enrollment-events/.
Online: Visit accesshealthct.com. You can learn more about the different plans and find free help online using the "live chat" feature.
By phone: Call 1-855-805-4325. Help is available Monday - Friday, 8:00 am- 5:00 pm. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1- 855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.
Work with a Broker: To find a Certified Broker or Enrollment Specialist, visit accesshealthct.com/get-help/

If you or your family need quality, affordable healthcare please don't miss this opportunity. Click here to learn more.

PEAK FOLIAGE TIMES

Check out the timeline below for peak foliage times. We still have a little time to enjoy the changing of the colors! CLICK HERE for the fall foliage report!

HIGH-SCHOOL VISIT

Earlier this week I had a fantastic time visiting Mr. Michael Brown and his American History class at Stamford High School!

It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm for understanding how our government works and its impact on our lives. I would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Brown’s entire class for a wonderful discussion.

And to the students I met : Remember that your voices and engagement matter! Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep dreaming big!

VETERANS DAY PARADE

Many communities all over the country will honor our heroes next week for Veterans Day. It’s a day to thank and recognize the more than 19 million men and women who have served in the U.S. military.

Stamford will host a Veterans Day Parade on Sunday, November 5 at 12 P.M. starting at the Police Department to Veterans Memorial Park via Bedford Street, across Broad Street, and continuing on Atlantic Street.

There will be a ceremony immediately after the parade in Veterans Memorial Park.

ELECTION DAY

Election Day is coming up on Tuesday, November 7, and your vote is very important!

Polls will open at 6 A.M. on Tuesday and close at 8 P.M. We are hoping for a high voter turnout, so please cast a ballot!

If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to contact me at 860-240-8585 if you ever need anything or by email at hubert.delany@cga.ct.gov

Sincerely,