| Last night, I had the honor of attending Southington High School’s graduation ceremony — and it couldn’t have been a more perfect evening. The weather was beautiful, the crowd was proud, and the event ran flawlessly. A special congratulations to my daughter, Molly, and to all the graduates. You’ve worked hard and earned this moment. Whether you’re heading off to college, the workforce, the military, or another endeavor — I wish you continued success, happiness, and purpose. |
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| Thank you to the SHS staff for putting together such a well-coordinated celebration. The Class of 2025 is ready for what’s next — your future is bright, and we’re all cheering you on! |
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| Please continue reading below for other noteworthy items, and thanks as always for taking the time to read them! |
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| Increased Funding for Roads |
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Good news for Southington roads. Over the last few years, many residents have reached out to me with concerns about the condition of our town roads. I’ve heard you—and I’ve acted.
Understanding the town’s limited bonding and budget capacity for road repairs, I was proud to support additional state funding for local infrastructure by voting in favor of HB 7288. This legislation delivers a 33% increase in state funding for Southington’s roads— an additional $347,451 over the next two years to help maintain and improve the roads we all rely on. This funding boost will ease the burden on local taxpayers for road repair while helping to address a top concern I hear from residents. |
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| Progress in CT’s Fight Against Opioids |
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Connecticut’s Opioid Services Division, created in 2018 to combat the overdose crisis, has helped lead the state to its third straight year of declining overdose deaths.
In 2024, key achievements included:
🔹 Expanding Harm Reduction Centers in high-risk areas (Hartford, Waterbury, New Haven, and New London)
🔹 Launching Peer Navigator outreach in two regions
🔹 Distributing nearly 60,000 naloxone kits—exceeding state goals
🔹 Hosting a Harm Reduction Conference with 390 attendees focused on equity and stigma
While we are encouraged by the progress, 990 lives were still lost in 2024. We remain committed to expanding access to treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services until no more lives are lost.
For more info visit the Opioid Services Division website. For help with an opioid disorder, visit www.liveloud.org or call 1-800-563-4086, 24/7. |
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Wrong Way Detection System
Coming to I-84 Exit 30 |
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Starting Monday, June 23, the Connecticut Department of Transportation will activate a new Wrong Way Detection System at I-84 westbound Exit 30 in Southington. The system uses cameras and flashing red lights to alert drivers going the wrong way and notifies CTDOT and State Police in real time.
Installation work is scheduled for June 23–26 and will involve nighttime lane closures from 6:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Motorists will be detoured via Exit 28 (Route 322). Please drive with caution and follow posted detour signs.
Learn more: portal.ct.gov/wrongwaydriving |
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Two book discussion groups that take place in Southington on June 18 and 19 are serving distinctly different refreshments.
Books & Brews
Books & Brews at Witchdoctor Brewing Company, 168 Center St. Unit 107, on June 18 from 6 to 7 p.m. is a casual book discussion group for adults. Instead of assigned reading, you are welcome to share whatever you've been reading and bring a book or two to swap. You're guaranteed to leave with a long list of books to read.
Click here to register. ADULTS 21+ ONLY.
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Books & Bagels
Meanwhile, on June 19 from 10 to 11 a.m., librarian Shelley Holley is hosting Books and Bagels an informal discuss favorite books and get recommendations from fellow reading enthusiasts. Find out about upcoming books by your favorite authors and discover hidden gems. Coffee/tea/cocoa & bagels will be provided. For questions, email holleys@southington.org or call 860-628-0947x5.
Click here to register or call the reference desk at 860-628-0947x5.
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| Rabies Vaccination Clinic |
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Reminder: There will a rabies clinic hosted by Southington Veterinary Associates on June 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Calendar House, 388 Pleasant St.
Dogs must be on a leash and cats in a carrier. People are asked to remain in the vehicle with their pets until prompted for their turn.
Those wishing to get the 3-year rabies vaccine must bring old vaccination records $20 cash only Town Clerk staff will be on site to issue dog licenses Cash or check (No credit cards) made out to Town of Southington will be accepted for licensing.
Dogs and cats must be at least 12 weeks old. |
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| The Southington Farmers Market kicks off on Friday, June 20, from 3 to 6 p.m. on the Town Green and will run every Friday through September 26. I encourage you to support our downtown community by stopping by. From fresh produce to local goods, the market is always worth the visit—speaking from personal experience! |
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The Barnes Museum staff invites you to a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of Southington on a guided walking tour from Merrell Avenue to just past Berlin Avenue. Discover the fascinating stories behind North Main Street’s historic buildings and monuments, brought to life through personal letters and diary entries from the Bradley, Barnes, and neighboring families. This immersive experience offers a rare glimpse into the town’s past and its transformation over time.
The tour will take place on Saturday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to noon and is a $10 suggested donation at the door. Registration is required — don’t miss your chance to walk through history! Click here to register. |
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Southington Bread for Life, with support from Southington Public Schools and South Central Health District, will provide lunches to Southington children five days a week, from June 23 to Aug. 15.
Lunches and programming will be available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the DePaolo Middle School, 385 Pleasant St.
Grab-and-go lunches will be available for pickup at Bread for Life, 31 Vermont Ave., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. |
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| Wishing all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and father figures in our community a Happy Father’s Day! Thank you for the love, guidance, and strength you bring to your families and to our town every day. |
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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!
Sincerely,
Chris Poulos
State Representative |
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