Dear Neighbor,
Last weekend, Mount Southington welcomed the start of another winter season, and I had the privilege of celebrating my 44th Opening Day at the mountain with guests and residents. It also marked my 13th season on the slopes as a Volunteer Ranger. It was especially rewarding to be back on the snow and to share in the excitement that accompanies the first day of the season.
One of the highlights was greeting the guests who boarded the first chair, a small but meaningful moment that reflects the enthusiasm and tradition that defines our beloved Mount Southington. |
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Being on the mountain once again was a reminder of why Mount Southington is such a special place. It is more than a ski area; it is a community gem where generations of families, mine included, have learned to ski and snowboard, formed lasting connections, and shared in the joy of winter.
I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving as a volunteer on the Ranger Squad and to be part of another Opening Day. I look forward to a safe, successful, and enjoyable season for everyone who visits the mountain.
Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
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| Stabilizing CT Amid Federal Uncertainty |
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In response to federal funding delays and cuts, Governor Ned Lamont is using Connecticut’s strong fiscal position to protect residents by tapping the state’s $500 million Emergency State Response Reserve, created by bipartisan legislation.
The administration proposes using $167.9 million to backfill lost or delayed federal support—lowering health insurance costs for 150,000+ residents, providing food assistance to 35,000+ people, and preventing 3,500 from losing housing.
By stabilizing healthcare, housing, and nutrition programs, Connecticut is shielding vulnerable residents from federal uncertainty while maintaining fiscal discipline. $332 million will remain in reserve for future needs. |
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The proposal includes:
- Tens of millions to offset cuts to Affordable Care Act subsidies
- $24.55 million to support community food banks and pantries
- Nearly $7 million to combat homelessness
- $4.7 million for 2-1-1 to increase call volume and to Community Action Agencies to support outreach and assistance for SNAP recipients
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Connecticut is paying down the unfunded pension liabilities for retired teachers and state workers. These recent contributions will save taxpayers billions of dollars over the next two decades by reducing annual payment obligations and long-term interest costs.
Paying down debt matters because it frees up money that would otherwise be spent on debt servicing—especially interest payments—allowing those dollars to be reinvested in future budgets, critical services, and long-term priorities instead of past obligations.
This responsible approach helps ensure Connecticut keeps its financial house in order by:
- Promoting long-term fiscal stability
- Protecting taxpayers from higher future costs
- Avoiding the transfer of today’s bills to future generations
- Lowering borrowing costs through improved credit strength
I remain committed to a focus on the state’s fiscal guardrails so that everyone in Connecticut benefits from stable, responsible budgeting, not just today, but for years to come.
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| Access Health Extends Enrollment Deadline |
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Due to a system outage, Access Health CT (AHCT) is extending its deadline to enroll in health and dental plans until Saturday, December 20 at 3 p.m. to ensure you have coverage starting in the new year. You must contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325. The call center is open:
- Friday (today) until 7 p.m.
- Saturday (tomorrow) from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
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If you complete an application on the AHCT website, your coverage will begin on February 1, 2026.
AHCT appreciates your patience and understanding as it works through this unexpected system outage. |
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| Battery Recycling at the Library |
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It’s battery season! The library has a collection bin available for alkaline batteries. Please place batteries in a zip-top bag, and drop them off during regular library hours—Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The marked bin is located next to the photocopier on the ground floor near the Circulation Desk. |
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Looking for something to do over the school break? Your Southington library card is your ticket to free or reduced-rate winter fun! Use your card to get a museum pass to:
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| You're invited to a winter concert on Monday, December 22 at 7 p.m. at Southington High School (720 Pleasant Street). The Southington Symphonic Band will perform alongside the Plainville Flute Ensemble in what promises to be a festive and vibrant show! You don't need a ticket, but organizers ask that you bring a monetary donation. |
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| The community is welcome to get into the holiday spirit with some caroling! The Herron Family will host a Christmas Sing Along on Wednesday, December 24 at 10 a.m. at the Southington Calendar House (388 Pleasant Street). In addition to caroling, participants will enjoy hot beverages and holiday treats. No registration required. |
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| Intro to Finance Classes for Teens |
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It’s not too late to sign up for the two remaining teen finances sessions! Anyone aged 12–18 are invited to join Connecticut Finance in Advance for a four-week Introduction to Finance course hosted by the Southington Public Library. Each session will cover a different topic in finance and money management, helping teens build valuable skills for the future.
The remaining classes will be held on December 23 & 30 from 5 p.m. –7 p.m. at Southington Public Library. Registration is required for participation. CLICK HERE to sign up, and registration for subsequent weeks opens one week before each class. Don’t miss this opportunity to give teens a head start in understanding finance and managing money! |
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REMINDER- The Southington Public Library is collecting 2026 Calendars for Southington Veterans and Southington Nursing Facilities. To donate stop by the library or visit one of the below collection centers.
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| Safe and Healthy Holidays |
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| As you prepare for the holiday season, I wish you safe travels wherever the road may take you, and peaceful moments spent enjoying quality time with family and loved ones. May the days ahead be filled with warmth, connection, and joy. |
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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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