State Funding for Our Towns

September 7, 2021
It is vital to ensure all students have a safe, modern building to go to each day that fosters an environment of learning. To that end, I want to discuss a pair of projects I was able to help secure funding for through the state which will ensure our students have those updated facilities that they deserve.
(Pictured left to right: Rep. Palm, First Selectman McDonald, and Principal Feltz)
Deep River Elementary School
On Tuesday, I was at Deep River Elementary School with First Selectman Angus McDonald to see and discuss the $132,000 bonding money which I secured to repair roof on the school building, which dates originally to 1914.

An additional benefit to this project is that, when the new roof is finally complete, it will allow for the installation of solar panels. This will drastically improve the building's energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint. This state money will dramatically shorten the time of the renovation (from four years to one year), thereby saving money for taxpayers.

Brainerd Memorial Library
                      

(Photo courtesy of Brainerd Memorial Library)

This historic building has been a focal point for Haddam residents for many years (parts of the structure date back to 1906), and I am thrilled that the state agreed to provide $675,000 in funding towards renovating the interior of the library. This includes the creation of a new café, meeting rooms, circulation area, and more. Congratulations to First Selectman Bob McGarry, Brainerd Memorial Library Director Tom Piezzo, Building and Grounds Committee Chair Lorraine Riess, and Board of Trustees Chair Marijean Conrad and everyone involved in securing this library grant. I was honored to play a small part in obtaining these funds. 

There is almost nothing more satisfying than being able to help advance projects that will benefit our students and teachers, as well as our seniors, and all who use libraries as the town center for cultural, recreational, social service and job search resources.