Joseph P. Gresko

Stratford will be receiving additional state funding designed to help close critical gaps in school budgets and town finances through the 2027 state budget.

Members of the Stratford Delegation, including State Representative Joesph Gresko (D-121), State Representative Kaitlyn Shake (D-120), State Representative Ben McGorty (R-122), and Senator Herron Keyon Gaston (D-23), welcome additional funding for Stratford.

The funding includes:

• $1,212,175 in additional education funding

• $406,351 in additional town aid

“This additional funding is much needed for Stratford and shows when the state gets its fiscal house in order, we’re able to help our towns,” said Representative Gresko. “And we passed this budget with bipartisan support.”

“This increase in state funding is a direct response to supporting the Stratford community in the areas they need it most, from additional town aid to critical education funding,” said Representative Shake. “I am grateful for the continued support from Speaker Ritter and House Democrat Leadership to help residents through property tax relief and increased aid. This will make a real, meaningful difference in the lives of our residents.”

“This budget makes important investments in education, including significant support for early childhood programs, helping ensure students have a strong foundation for success,” said Representative McGorty. “At the same time, expanding tax relief on clothing and essential school supplies will provide meaningful savings for families. We are easing everyday costs and supporting education funding. These steps also help take pressure off local budgets and property taxpayers. It’s a positive step toward making Connecticut more affordable for working families.”

“Education is the great equalizer, and this budget puts that belief into action,” said Senator Herron Keyon Gaston. “Stratford's students and families will feel the impact of this investment, and I am proud to have helped deliver funding that expands opportunity for every learner in our community."

Stratford’s portion of the state budget is $44.8 million, which includes PILOT funds, Motor Vehicle Tax Payments, Supplemental Revenue Sharing Grants, Town Aid Road, Local Capital Improvement Program (LoCIP), Municipal Grants in Aid, Education Cost Sharing, Adult Education, Special Education and Expansion Development (SEED) Grant, as well as the supplemental funding for education and town aid.

The 2027 budget adjustment passed the Senate 30-6 Saturday afternoon and was passed by the House of Representatives Saturday evening by a vote of 127-21-3. It significantly boosts support for the state’s education system, increases crucial investments in housing and transportation, supports town and city budgets, and more — all while safeguarding the state's strong fiscal outlook, including $1 billion toward paying down long-term debt.