Severe Cold Weather Protocol, Assistance for Renters, Tax Relief Programs

January 31, 2023

The first extended cold weather of the winter is headed to Connecticut for the end of the week, so state’s severe cold weather protocol goes into effect beginning Thursday at noon and remains in effect until noon on Sunday. Temperatures are expected to plummet starting on Thursday night and drop into the single digits and possibly below zero degrees at night on Friday and Saturday.  Anyone in need of a safe place to stay warm is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to a nearby location, and transportation can be provided if needed.

The City of West Haven will open an overnight warming center for residents in need. The warming center will operate from 4 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Sunday in the Carrigan Intermediate School cafeteria. The center is for anyone needing relief from the cold. Face masks are recommended.

Also, please do not leave your pets outside, it's a crime!

Please do not leave your pets outside in cold weather, it's a crime.

Assistance for Renters
The Connecticut Department of Housing is launching a new fund to assist renters who are on the verge of being evicted from their homes due to owing past due rent. UniteCT and the Rent Bank, the Eviction Prevention Fund will provide households with up to $5,000 to pay off past due rent with their current landlord.

To apply, tenants must call the UniteCT Call Center at 844-864-8328 and be screened for eligibility. Eligible applicants will receive direct assistance from a local UniteCT Resource Center, where they will complete the application.

Tax Relief Programs for Elderly, Disabled Homeowners
The City of West Haven assessor’s office is accepting applications by appointment for tax relief programs for elderly and disabled homeowners. West Haven residents can apply for the programs, based on their 2022 taxable and untaxable incomes, weekdays from Feb. 15-May 15 in the assessor's office on the first floor of City Hall. For an appointment, call 203-937-3515. No walk-ins.

Listen to the Radio
Last week, I joined WICC's Melissa in the Morning to discuss the new Breast Cancer screening bill that went into effect on January 1. Click HERE to listen to my interview!.