Kevin Brown

Earlier this week, the Office of Health Strategies (OHS) approved Hartford HealthCare’s acquisition of Manchester Memorial Hospital and Rockville General Hospital.

This decision ensures that our community hospitals will remain open, that our neighbors can keep their jobs, and that families will continue to have access to high-quality care close to home. It also safeguards essential services that our communities rely on every day, providing stability and a stronger foundation for the future.

The deadline to sign up for Access Health CT coverage beginning January 1, 2026 is fast approaching. If you or someone you know needs health insurance for the upcoming year, now is the time to review your options and complete the enrollment process. Please keep reading for more information on where to apply, how to compare plans, and where you can find in-person, phone, or online assistance to guide you through the enrollment process. Making sure you’re covered is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and financial well-being in the year ahead.

As you may have heard, yesterday the U.S. Senate failed to extend federal Affordable Care Act subsidies. As a result, Governor Lamont announced that the state expects to spend roughly $70 million next year to make up for the loss. These funds will come from a $500 million contingency reserve we created during last month’s special session to address potential federal cuts to safety-net programs.

For individuals earning up to $56,000 a year, health care costs will remain unchanged. Likewise, a family of four with an annual income of up to approximately $128,000 will see little to no change in their costs. Partial subsidies are being considered for those with slightly higher incomes, up to $75,000 for single individuals and $160,000 or more for a family of four who would pay slightly more than they do now.

Open enrollment for Access Health CT's (AHCT) health and dental insurance is in full swing, and staff is ready to help residents understand their health care options.

If residents enroll in a plan on or before December 15, their coverage will begin January 1, 2026.

If they enroll between December 16 and January 15, 2026, their coverage will begin February 1, 2026.

Click here to compare plans, create an account, or to schedule an appointment with an enrollment specialist.

AHCT also offers free, expert assistance over the phone at 1-855-805-4325 to guide customers through the enrolling process. Help is available in more than 100 languages.

Please join me, along with State Representative Jamie Foster and State Representative Patrick Biggins, for a community discussion on homeschooling. The event will take place on Monday, December 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Hall Memorial Library (93 Main Street, Ellington).

We welcome parents, students, educators, and anyone interested in learning more about homeschooling practices, resources, and policy. This will be an excellent opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and explore how our community can better support families who choose to educate at home.

We hope to see you there!

Vernon Social Services is seeking the community’s support this holiday season by collecting gift cards for local teens ages 13–17. These donations help ensure that every young person in our community can experience some joy and independence during the holidays.

The department is open for in-person drop-offs Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Please note that the office is closed on Fridays.

For your convenience, gift cards may also be placed at any time in the department’s secure drop box located in front of Town Hall.

Your generosity makes a meaningful difference, thank you for helping support Vernon’s youth this holiday season!

Saturday, December 13 is Wreaths across America Day. 

Take time to REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those who served, and TEACH the next generation the value of freedom.

Click here to sponsor a wreath or to volunteer at Grove Hill Cemetery.

If you're behind on your mortgage payments or looking to boost your earning potential, the Mortgage Crisis Job Training Program may be able to assist.

Click here for more information and to apply or call 1-866-683-1682.

It’s important to stay safe when using supplemental heating methods. Please review the electric portable space-heater safety tips above, and please be safe.

Additional Fire Safety measures:

• Smoke Alarms: Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms: Required in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level.