House Republican Press Release

January 28, 2009

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. HOVEY WELCOMES LOCAL OFFICIALS TO CAPITOL ‘ROUNDTABLE’

Area Leaders Discuss Impact Of State Budget On Town Finances

HARTFORD-  On Tuesday, January 27, State Rep. DebraLee Hovey (R-Monroe, Newtown) welcomed officials from Monroe to a budget roundtable discussion and outline of Connecticut’s fiscal problems and how they affect towns and cities.  Monroe School Superintendent Colleen Palmer, Ph.D, and Monroe Economic and Community Development Coordinator Vinny Mangiacopra attended the session, which featured a budget briefing from non-partisan staff.

The event was hosted by State House Republican Leader Lawrence F. Cafero Jr, (R-Norwalk). Rep. Hovey noted that towns and cities are struggling to prepare their budgets and are very concerned how to how to do so during the current fiscal crisis without significant tax increases. Palmer said the event was productive.

“It was very helpful to hear the perspective of municipalities because we work hand in hand with the state,’’ said Palmer. “Some of the comments heard today echo those in superintendents’ meetings, that we have to be collaborative in seeking solutions.”

Mangiacopra was present because First Selectman Tom Buzi was unable to attend the roundtable.

“It put a label on some of the problems we all suffer from in different parts of the state,” said Mangiacopra. “Hopefully the legislators realized there is a ground level layer and things are just as tight on that level.”

“I’m very glad we had Monroe officials attend this session,” said Rep. Hovey. “I completely understand why local leaders are anxious because the state’s fiscal problem is going to directly impact services and it’s important they know where the Legislature is headed. The input was also much-needed for legislators who will have to act on their behalf during budget negotiations that will be underway during the next several months.”

On Tuesday, January 27, State Rep. DebraLee Hovey, R-Monroe, welcomed Monroe officials to a roundtable meeting at the State Capitol complex. The event focused on state finances and policies and their impact on mid-sized and small towns. From left to right, Monroe Town Staff Member Heidi Meade, Monroe School Superintendent Colleen Palmer, Ph.D, Rep. Hovey and Monroe Economic and Community Development Coordinator Vinny Mangiacopra.