Offshore Wind Interview, Heating Assistance, and City Charter Revision Debate

October 25, 2023


I recently spoke on NBC Connecticut about offshore wind in an in-depth analysis covering the future of the industry, jobs, and much more. I had plenty to say, so please keep scrolling to watch that interview!
 
You may have noticed the colors changing in some parts of the state. It definitely feels like fall, and you can apply now for home heating assistance before the mercury drops even further. Read below to learn about this valuable resource.

Below you will find the following sections in this email:

    • Protecting Our Ocean
    • Home Heating Assistance
    • City Charter Revision Debate
    • Apply Now for the Legislative Internship Program
     
    I spoke on NBC Connecticut's political program called "Face the Facts" where Mike Hydeck and I had an in-depth conversation about the future of offshore wind projects in our state. Click on the image below to watch last Sunday's interview.

    If we face the facts, we can use the setback of Avangrid backing out of an offshore wind contract to come back to the table with stronger environmental standards and great labor creation for the entire Northeast region. I hope and trust in the agencies from several states to come to agree on a noise threshold limit for the construction and operational phases.

    We have the ability to manufacture low carbon concrete gravity bases right here without relying on European steel. This would protect our incredibly diverse North Atlantic biodiversity while creating thousands of new local jobs.

    You cannot pretend to fight climate change while threatening the very frontline of defense against it, the Ocean, the climate regulator. We have to be smart moving forward and ensure our children have a better future.
     
    Home Heating Assistance
    Even though the weather is getting chillier, you still have time to apply for benefits through Connecticut’s Energy Assistance Program! The deadline to submit applications for the 2023-2024 winter heating season is May 31, 2024.
    Enrollment for the program occurs on an annual basis so even if you received assistance last year, you will need to re-apply. CLICK HERE for more information on eligibility and how to apply.
     
    City Charter Revision Debate
    The upcoming municipal elections on November 7 feature a ballot proposal to change Stamford’s city charter. This vote will be vital for the future of our community. I’m sure you have seen signs and opinion pieces on both sides convincing you to vote a particular way.
    Angela Carella, a reporter with CT Examiner, wrote an extensive article breaking down how the charter affects development, mayoral appointees, taxes, housing, and much more. I encourage you to read her piece to get a better understanding of what is at stake.
    Read Full CT Examiner Article on City Charter Revision
     
    Apply Now for the Legislative Internship Program
    The Connecticut General Assembly Legislative Internship Program is looking for new candidates! CLICK HERE if you are interested in joining the program for Spring 2024. The application deadline is November 1, 2023.
    The program offers Connecticut college students the opportunity to learn how state government works through first-hand experience in the legislative offices. Interns earn college credit for their work in the Connecticut General Assembly and gain exclusive access to the legislators and insight into the policy making process.
    Learn More About the Program