Dear Neighbor,
Congratulations to my good friend Dawn Miceli on being honored with the 2025 Southington UNICO Gold Medal Award, a well-deserved recognition of her decades of service, leadership, and commitment to our community.
It was a pleasure to attend the celebration this week and honor Dawn for all she has done for Southington, through efforts and organizations including SoCCA, the Southington Drive-In, open space initiatives, local government, and countless volunteer efforts.
Southington is a better place because of her dedication and passion for giving back. |
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UNICO’s motto, “Service Above Self,” perfectly reflects the example Dawn has set for our community over so many years. Congratulations, Dawn!
Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
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| Supporting Responsible Artificial Intelligence in Connecticut |
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This session, I proudly supported the passage of Senate Bill 5, the Connecticut Artificial Intelligence Responsibility and Transparency (C.A.R.T.) Act. Artificial intelligence is already impacting jobs, education, online services, and the information people rely on every day.
This legislation creates practical safeguards to help protect consumers, children, workers, and families while ensuring Connecticut is prepared for the future of AI. The bill increases transparency when AI is used in important decisions, strengthens protections for minors online, supports workforce training and AI education, and helps small businesses and public agencies adapt responsibly to emerging technology.
I believe Connecticut can embrace innovation while also maintaining accountability, transparency, and human oversight. The C.A.R.T. Act is an important step toward preparing our state for the future while protecting residents today. |
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All eligible voters in Connecticut now have the option of casting a vote via absentee ballot.On Tuesday, the governor signed Public Act 26-42 into law, removing outdated restrictions that previously limited absentee ballots to voters who could not appear in person on Election Day for a narrow set of reasons. The change takes effect immediately.
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The voters of Connecticut requested Absentee Voting For All after they overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment in 2024. The new law takes effect immediately.The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy. Expanding access to absentee ballots strengthens participation, increases flexibility, and ensures every voter has a convenient and secure option to make their voice heard.To vote by absentee ballot, eligible registered voters must complete an absentee ballot application and submit it to their town clerk. Applications can also be submitted online through the Office of the Secretary of the State’s secure portal. For more information on applying for an absentee ballot, CLICK HERE.
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| CyberKnights Win State Title |
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It was exciting to attend the 2026 CAS-CIAC FIRST Robotics Competition State Championship at Glastonbury High School this week and cheer on Team 195, The CyberKnights from Southington High School.
Competing in this year’s “FIRST AGE” season, Team 195 helped lead their alliance to the 2026 state championship title. Their hard work, teamwork, and innovation continue to make Southington proud and showcase the incredible talent of our students. Congratulations to all involved! |
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| Route 10 Traffic Signal Upgrades |
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will hold a virtual public information meeting on Tuesday, June 2 at 6:00 p.m. regarding planned traffic signal upgrades and replacement of the computerized traffic signal system along Route 10 in Southington.
The project is expected to improve pedestrian and driver safety, with construction anticipated to begin in fall 2027. Residents can attend the Zoom meeting to learn more, ask questions, and provide feedback on the proposed improvements. |
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The outdoor terrace at the Southington Public Library is now open to the public! The space is a gorgeous spot for residents to read, study, relax, attend programs, or simply enjoy the outdoors while visiting the library.
According to the library, the terrace will be open daily with WiFi access during regular library hours. This exciting addition was made possible through the support of donors, community members, and partners who helped bring the project to life. Be sure to stop by and check it out!
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 30 minutes before closing, weather permitting. |
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The community is welcome to kick off the season with fresh color at the Lewis Educational Agriculture Farm's (LEAF) Annual Plant Sale. You will be able to buy a variety of flowers and vegetable plants from local growers from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., tomorrow, Saturday, May 23 at the farm at 65 Blueberry Lane.
The plant sale serves as a fundraiser to support education programs at LEAF, helping provide hands-on learning experiences for learners of all ages. |
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| ECC Community Listening Session |
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The Early Childhood Collaborative (ECC) is seeking input from Southington parents, guardians, and caregivers with children under 9.
The goal of this brief, 10-minute survey is to better understand the experiences and needs of families raising young children in our community. Feedback will help inform future programs and support services.
There is still time to participate—this survey is open until May 25. |
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The Southington Police Department is offering a new Youth Bicycle Safety Course designed to help keep children safe on the road while engaging parents as active partners in the learning process. This interactive program emphasizes that bicycle safety is a shared responsibility.
📅 Saturday, June 6
⏰ 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
📍 Southington Police Station (69 Lazy Lane)
Parents and children will participate together alongside police officers, learning practical skills and important safety information for riding in neighborhoods and public spaces. The course is intended to be hands-on and family-focused, making it a great opportunity to build confidence, improve safety awareness, and strengthen community connections. |
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Reminder - Next week, Presence CT kicks off Southington’s annual “Music on the Green” outdoor concert series on Wednesday, May 27 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. on the Southington Town Green (Route 10/Main St.).
Admission is free — just bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the show! Check out this year’s lineup below! |
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| Summer Nights at The Drive-In |
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Reminder - The Original Drive-In has announced its Summer 2026 schedule! Fifteen weeks of big-screen entertainment begins on Saturday, May 30, featuring a mix of new releases and classic favorites, many celebrating milestone anniversaries this year.
Shout out to lead sponsor Richard Chevrolet and event volunteers for their continued support. Admission remains just $20 per vehicle-load. Get ready to experience some “REEL” nostalgia this summer at the drive-in! |
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| National EMS Week honors the EMTs and paramedics who provide life-saving care every day. It’s a time to thank them for their service and dedication. |
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I want to wish everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day Weekend, a time set aside to honor and remember the service members who gave their lives in defense of our country. We are grateful for their sacrifice and reflect with appreciation on the freedoms they helped secure.
I hope you will join me and the community for the Southington American Legion Kiltronic Post #72 Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 25. The parade starts at 10:30 a.m. from Derynoski Elementary School and will end at 98 Main Street.
There will be a ceremony immediately afterward on the Town Green, where we will honor the memory of our fallen heroes and express our gratitude for their service and sacrifice. |
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| As always, if I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Chris.Poulos@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "LIKE" my Facebook page for news and legislative updates! |
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Sincerely,
Chris Poulos
State Representative |
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