Kara Rochelle

Happy December!

In this week's update, you'll learn more about new state funds for the 104th district, good news in terms of Connecticut's finances, and more!

If there's something you need assistance with or want to speak with me about, please don't hesitate to reply to this email or reach out to me at Kara.Rochelle@cga.ct.gov.

I am proud to announce that the Connecticut State Bond Commission approved state funds for multiple projects in the 104th. Connecticut's Bond Commission approved $6.5 million in state funds to upgrade a bridge at the former Ansonia Copper & Brass industrial complex. The funding was allocated through the Connecticut's Community Investment Fund 2030 (CIF), which I voted to create in the state budget. Ansonia is also set to receive $71,233 for body and dash cameras and video storage devices for Ansonia's Police Department. Derby will receive $600,000 to make improvements, alterations, and repairs to Derby Middle School.

The funding issued to our community will help address economic development, public safety and improve our schools. I am particularly proud of the $6.5 million given through CIF - this was done to advance our efforts to economically revitalize the Lower Valley. I am thrilled to be a part of the process at the state level, bringing these critical funds home.

The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) announced that the application for the next round of their Equity Match Grant Program will open January 17th, 2023. 

The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for 2 or more years and have revenues between $25K and $2 million.

The deadline to apply is February 28th, 2023. For additional information and more details on the program, please visit the website.

The Office of Policy and Management noted the teachers' retirement unfunded liability has been reduced by a billion dollars in the last year. Combined with other recent deposits, the state will save $9.4 billion over the next 25 years.

Millions of dollars that would have otherwise gone to debt payments can be freed up to continue investments in childcare, education, workforce training, local community investments, tax cuts, programs for seniors, and more, improving the quality of life for all residents.

While our fiscal outlook is good, we remain diligent and disciplined in our budgeting.
 
I will continue working with my colleagues to help make sure we set realistic expectations for our revenue and strategically important spending policies to keep our state moving in the right direction.

⚠️ Pneumonia
⚠️ Sinus Infections
⚠️ Ear Infections
⚠️ Myocarditis (Heart inlammation)
⚠️ Encephalitis (Brain inflammation)
⚠️ Myositis (Muscle tissue inflammation)
⚠️ Respiratory Failure
⚠️ Kidney Failure
and the list goes on...

The flu shot helps prevent millions of these flu-related cases each year. Head to vaccines.gov to find a location today!