October 1, 2014
TODAY AT 1PM: GOV. MALLOY MAKES ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE 'DANBURY COMMUNITY FACILITY COLLABORATION'
(HARTFORD, CT) - This afternoon at 1:00 p.m., Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference in Danbury to make an announcement regarding the Danbury Community Facility Collaboration - an effort led by an alliance of local non-profit agencies to establish a community center at the site of the now vacant Danbury branch of the YMCA in order to restore programs and services for adults and children that were lost due to the YMCA branch's closure. The Governor will be joined by Mayor Mark Boughton, state lawmakers, and local officials.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Mayor Boughton, state lawmakers, local officials WHAT : Governor Malloy holds news conference to make announcement concerning the Danbury Community Facility Collaboration WHEN : TODAY - Wednesday, October 1, 2014; 1:00 p.m. WHERE : Boughton Street YMCA; 12 Boughton Street, Danbury
###
For Immediate Release: October 1, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 1, 2014
GOV. MALLOY, AG JEPSEN: BIA'S WHOLESALE, DRAMATIC FEDERAL TRIBAL RECOGNITION CHANGES SHOULD BE REJECTED Attorney General Files Official Comments in Response to Proposed Federal Regulations
(HARTFORD, CT) - Attorney General George Jepsen yesterday filed official comments with the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) on behalf of the state in opposition to proposed rules issued that would significantly weaken the substantive requirements for federal tribal recognition. Governor Dannel P. Malloy said that he supports the Attorney General's comments and that, if ultimately enacted, the BIA's proposed rules would have a unique impact in Connecticut.
"The proposed rules would have a grave and unfair impact on Connecticut and should not be adopted in their current form," said Governor Malloy. "Such a change would likely result in federal acknowledgement for groups that have made land claims to large areas of settled land here in Connecticut, and who have already been denied recognition after a long, intense, and fact-based federal process."
"The proposed rules represent a dramatic departure from the standards and process governing acknowledgment decisions for nearly 40 years," said Attorney General Jepsen. "If adopted as proposed, petitioners could gain recognition in circumstances completely at odds with fundamental principles of tribal acknowledgement. These proposals - which could give previously denied petitioners a second bite at the apple under greatly weakened criteria - are unjustified and should be rejected."
The federal tribal recognition rules currently in place require a tribe to prove its continuous community and political authority since first contact with European settlers. Under the changes proposed by the BIA in May, criteria would be weakened to require merely a demonstration that a state has maintained a state reservation since 1934. The existence of a state reservation, in Connecticut's experience, does not reflect the kind of political organization and history that federal recognition status requires.
"Rather than improving transparency, predictability and finality, the proposed changes may undo settled decisions on which the state and others had expended significant resources and on which they have relied," the Attorney General said. "The continuous existence as a distinct community and the continuous exercise of political influence or authority within the group are central to the decision to acknowledge a tribe and to place them in a government-to- government relationship with the federal government. The proposed rules represent an unprecedented break from these established understandings of acknowledgement principles."
The draft would allow a previously denied petitioner to re-petition if it can demonstrate that the changed criteria warrant a reversal of prior denial and if parties to its previous denied petition consent to the group's re-petitioning. Such a consent requirement would likely be subject to litigation, the outcome of which is uncertain. That uncertainty, coupled with the change to core acknowledgement criteria, could lead to the reversal of prior decisions denying recognition to the Eastern Pequot, Schaghticoke and possibly the Golden Hill Paugussett petitioners - contradicting findings in previous recognition proceedings that determined that the maintenance of state reservations itself offered no evidence of community or political authority.
"There is no justification to permit the petitioners, and to require the interested parties to expend their resources, to litigate acknowledgement anew," Attorney General Jepsen said. "The previously denied petitioners had a full and fair opportunity to prove their tribal existence. They failed. The proposed rule allowing re-petitioning should be eliminated so that the state and its most affected communities can be spared years of additional and unnecessary uncertainty."
The Attorney General said that provisions in the proposed rules dealing with splinter groups or factions seeking to be acknowledged should be clarified and made consistent to ensure that their purpose - to avoid the factionalization of tribes and preclude splinter groups from gaining acknowledgement when the group with which they were previously associated has been denied - is achieved.
Additionally, the proposed regulations would eliminate appeal review by the Interior Board of Indian Appeals and allow only petitioners to seek a hearing before an Office of Hearings and Appeals judge after a proposed negative finding. Third parties, including the state and municipalities, would not be allowed to seek such review following a proposed positive finding, a move Attorney General Jepsen called "patently unfair."
The BIA's comment period on the proposed regulations closed yesterday, September 30.
Assistant Attorney General Mark Kohler, head of the Special Litigation department, and Special Counsel Robert Clark are assisting the Attorney General with this matter.
Please click here to view the comments filed with the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
###
For Immediate Release: October 1, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell)
Jaclyn M. Falkowski Office of the Attorney General [email protected] 860-808-5324 (office) 860-655-3903 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 1, 2014
GOV. MALLOY - LT. GOV. WYMAN STATEMENT ON ANTHEM AND HARTFORD HEALTHCARE
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman today released the following joint statement regarding the suspended negotiations between Anthem Health Plans, Inc. and the Hartford HealthCare Corporation:
"We are extremely disappointed that Anthem Health Plans, Inc. and the Hartford Healthcare Corporation have allowed their contract to expire today without negotiating a new one.
"We're not interested in assigning blame. We want to make sure that everyone in our state has access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. We simply cannot let profit margins stand in the way of that goal.
"Both companies need to return to the table and work out a deal that protects the health of Connecticut residents."
###
For Immediate Release: October 1, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 1, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: STATE WILL SUPPORT EFFORTS OF DANBURY NONPROFIT ALLIANCE TO ESTABLISH COMMUNITY CENTER FOR RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES
(DANBURY, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy, joined by Mayor Mark Boughton and other state and local leaders, today announced that the state will invest nearly $3.8 million to advance the plans of the "Danbury Community Facility Collaboration" to establish a new community center that will serve the Greater Danbury area. The alliance, which is made up of local nonprofit entities led by the Connecticut Institute For Communities, Inc. (CIFC) and the Danbury War Memorial Association, Inc., is working together to purchase the now-closed YMCA of Danbury building and convert it into a community center.
"By investing in this facility that so many depend on, we will ensure that this now-vacant building will be restored into productive reuse and the programs and services that were lost due to the closure of the YMCA will be replaced. We are also creating more opportunities for adults and senior citizens to enjoy recreational activities while providing Danbury's youth a support system outside of school and opportunities for a brighter, more successful future," said Governor Malloy. "And, our investment in the War Memorial is equally as important because it will not only serve the community today but will also honor and preserve the legacy of the sacrifices made by our veterans for generations to come."
Governor Malloy announced that the state will commit $3,798,000 for the Danbury Community Facility Collaboration's initiative, which will cover about 75 percent of the $5,064,000 total project cost. Part of the plan for cooperation between the two agencies also includes significant renovations to the War Memorial totaling $498,000 and $800,000 for renovations to a building affiliated with the alliance that will house the Head Start early childhood education program for Danbury. The alliance expects to raise 25 percent of the total project cost - about $1.2 million - from private sources.
"We have been working hard with our state and nonprofit partners to pay tribute to our veterans by making necessary renovations to the War Memorial and get this community center up and running. By providing quality early childhood education and after-school programs in a safe environment, we are giving Danbury's youngest citizens a better chance to become healthy and productive adults," said Danbury Mayor Boughton. "This home for Head Start and the Boys - Girls Club will benefit the entire community and I thank Governor Malloy, the Danbury Community Facility Collaboration and our state delegation members for their continued support for the City of Danbury."
"Plans to fund the advance of the "Danbury Community Facility Collaboration" and create an open center for growth in our community is very encouraging," said State Rep. David Scribner (R-107). "Providing active outlets for local services to start, stay and thrive in Danbury is vital to giving our homegrown talent the opportunities necessary to keep them here in Connecticut."
"I am thrilled to hear that the former YMCA building will once again be used as a place for the community to come together," said State Rep. Richard A. Smith (R-108). "It is not only great for City Center but also for the entire Danbury area to have a place to go and socialize."
"Governor Malloy once again reaffirms his commitment to the community organizations that enrich lives throughout the state," said State Rep. David Arconti Jr. (D-109). "I applaud the work of the Danbury War Memorial Association and the Connecticut Institute For Communities for their work in moving this forward. I look forward to a successful center that will serve many in the Greater Danbury area for years to come."
The Danbury branch of the regional YMCA closed last summer and had been home to the city's only public recreational pool. Because Danbury is the largest city in the state without a Boys and Girls Club, CIFC recently proposed purchasing the now- vacant YMCA building, and converting it into a Boys and Girls Club. The purchase and renovation of the YMCA building is expected to cost between $1.5 million and $2 million.
"All of us involved in the Danbury Community Facilities Collaboration are profoundly grateful to Governor Dan Malloy for his visionary leadership. Our Governor clearly has a deep understanding for what makes a healthy community function at its best," said James H. Maloney, JD, President and CEO of the Connecticut Institute For Communities (CIFC), one of the Collaboration members. "His action today shows Governor Malloy's personal commitment to the well-being of our pre-school and school- aged children, our honored Veterans, and our Seniors, all of whom are the direct beneficiaries of his Danbury initiative. The Governor's program of community facility improvements announced today also would not have been possible without the guidance and support of Mayor Mark Boughton, who has again demonstrated his dedication to the Danbury community."
CIFC approached the City's other major social services provider, the Danbury War Memorial, and proposed that the two organizations agree to avoid having competing programs by collaborating on the effort. Members of the Danbury War Memorial, which also serves as a recreational and educational facility, will be allowed to use the pool at the new Boys and Girls Club.
###
For Immediate Release: October 1, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 1, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: CONNECTICUT STATE POLICE TO ADOPT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ASSESSMENT PROGRAM Proclaims October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced the Connecticut State Police will be adopting a lethality assessment program (LAP) to keep victims of domestic violence safe by encouraging more victims to use shelters, counseling and advocacy and support services.
"The lethality assessment is an easy and effective method that identifies victims of domestic violence who are at heightened risk of being seriously injured or killed by their intimate partners and immediately connects them to the domestic violence service provider in their area," said Governor Malloy. "With practices like this in place, we will undoubtedly save lives. I commend the Connecticut State Police and the many municipal police departments for their adoption of this vital tool."
Governor Malloy has proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the State of Connecticut.
"We are currently readying all of our patrol troopers to incorporate the lethality assessment into their response to domestic violence calls starting this month," said Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora B. Schriro. "It is our goal to train all of our troopers during October, which is Domestic Violence Prevention month, to underscore our commitment to those affected by domestic violence."
The LAP is based upon research conducted by Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing over the past 25 years. The research states: o Only 4 percent of domestic violence murder victims nationwide had ever availed themselves of domestic violence program services; o In 50 percent of domestic violence-related homicides, officers had previously responded to a call at the scene; and o The re-assault of domestic violence victims in high danger was reduced by 60 percent if they went into shelter.
"Connecticut is truly strengthened by the implementation of the Lethality Assessment Program by the Connecticut State Police," said Karen Jarmoc, CEO of Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which oversees the Lethality Assessment Program in Connecticut. "Lethality assessment has proven to be a very effective tool. Close to 80 percent of victims deemed by police to be in high danger situations have been immediately connected to their local domestic violence organization for safety planning. This is a life-saving tool and we look forward to working with Connecticut State Police to assist in its implementation."
Maryland was the first state to adopt the LAP and experienced a 34 percent drop in intimate partner Domestic Violence homicides between July 2007 and June 2012. The LAP is now being used by hundreds of jurisdictions in 32 states. Currently, 33 municipal police departments in Connecticut are using it.
The Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council is providing training to municipal police departments on the use of the LAP. The Council has also voted unanimously to promulgate a model policy on the LAP.
Below are some important domestic violence statistics both nationally and in Connecticut:
Nationally o Every 9 seconds in the US, a woman is assaulted or beaten. o Every day in the US, three or more women are killed by their husbands or boyfriends. o Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women, more than car accidents, muggings and rapes combined. o Ninety-two percent of women surveyed said reducing domestic violence and sexual assault is their top concern.
Connecticut o Since 2000, 188 victims have been killed in Connecticut as a result of intimate partner violence. o An average of 20,000 family violence incidents in Connecticut result in at least one arrest annually with 73 percent of these incidents involving intimate partners. o In 2013, one third of all cases in Connecticut's criminal courts involve family violence and, in any given year, approximately 9,000 restraining order applications are filed in Connecticut's family courts.
** Download : Governor Malloy's proclamation declaring October 2014 "Domestic Violence Awareness Month"
###
For Immediate Release: October 1, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 2, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES PLAN FOR FULL REPLACEMENT OF THE NEW HAVEN LINE'S WALK BRIDGE
(NORWALK, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced the Connecticut Department of Transportation's (ConnDOT) plan to close a $188 million funding gap for the design and replacement of the New Haven Line's 118-year-old Walk Bridge in Norwalk, which malfunctioned in two separate incidents within a two week period over the summer.
"The operational failures of the Walk Bridge underscored how critically important it is to upgrade and bring our aging transportation infrastructure into the 21st Century - something my administration has been addressing over the last several years with smart, strategic investments in our mass transit and highway systems," said Governor Malloy. "Since the malfunctions we saw last summer, we have carried out the repairs and procedures necessary to minimize the risk for failure in the short-term and have aggressively pursued the funding necessary to implement a realistic finance plan that will bring us all the way from design to a full replacement as soon as possible."
The federal government recently awarded ConnDOT $161 million for infrastructure hardening purposes which, combined with existing state funds designated for the Walk Bridge replacement, gives Connecticut about $277 million to put toward the $465 million total estimated project cost. In all, this project will be funded with 34 percent state funds and 66 percent federal funds. The additional funding sources that will provide the $188 million needed for the project are:
o Federal Transit Administration regular program apportionment funding is programed to support the project in federal fiscal years 2016-2018 in the amount of approximately $146 million with a state matching requirement of $36.5 million over the three years for a total of $182.5 million. o An additional $68 million of state bond funds over the three year period are programmed as state over match to complete the WALK Finance Plan and provide a total of approximately $465 million for the project.
"The Walk Bridge has been stuck in the 19th century for far too long, and today's announcement will finally bring a permanent, 21st century solution," said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. "For decades, the Walk Bridge was allowed to decay and deteriorate, as both the state and federal government kicked the can down the road and ignored glaring warning signs. Here, and with other major transportation investments, Governor Malloy is to be commended for recognizing that we must invest now in our rail and transportation infrastructure, or pay later with cascading failures, intolerable traffic congestion, and diminished opportunities for economic development."
"The Walk Bridge's failure to open not once, but twice this year, served as a wake-up call for hundreds of thousands of Connecticut commuters that we simply can't afford to let our roads and bridges crumble around us," said U.S. Senator Chris Murphy. "Replacing this 118-year-old bridge is long overdue and Governor Malloy should be applauded for his leadership today. This funding will go a long way toward making commuters safer and happier, and I look forward to doing whatever I can to help this move forward."
"This historic federal investment is a major victory for both Norwalk and our entire region," said U.S. Representative Jim Himes (CT-4). "This award will help replace the deteriorated Walk Bridge, which has caused repetitive delays that have been a drain on both commuters and businesses in Connecticut and the Northeast, and improve the efficiency and safety of Metro- North's New Haven line. I fought hard for this funding and will continue pushing for investments to fix our crumbling bridges, roads and railways to ensure the safety of our people and make our economy more competitive."
Commuter advocate Jim Cameron hailed the Governor's announcement but cautioned, "After decades of neglect it will take many years to design and build a new Walk bridge, just the first of four such century-old bridges needing replacement. I would caution commuters that we are still at some risk of service disruptions, despite the best efforts of the CDOT and Metro-North. Only patience and perseverance will return this railroad to greatness."
Governor Malloy also outlined the state's aggressive schedule for the project which is using an "alternative delivery" process, specifically the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) process. ConnDOT will issue a request for qualifications (RFQ) this month to start contractor selection and expects the design for the replacement bridge, which began in July, to be complete by 2016. With a contract bid package complete by late 2016, construction of the replacement bridge could begin in 2017 with a completion date in 2020. The combination of the additional funding and the alternative project delivery method will result in getting this project done many years ahead of the original schedule for the project.
"The Walk Bridge is a critical bridge essential to commuter services on the New Haven Line and to intercity services provided by AMTRAK between Washington and Boston," said ConnDOT Commissioner James Redeker. "The funding form the Federal Transit Administration demonstrates the role of federal funding to address this and other major infrastructure needs along the Northeast Corridor."
In April, Governor Malloy announced that the State of Connecticut applied for a portion of $3 billion in federal funding made available under the Sandy Resiliency Project Program for states most affected by Storm Sandy. Connecticut applied for funding to help cover the capital costs of three resiliency, or "infrastructure hardening", projects central to the New Haven Line, including the replacement of the Walk Bridge. After competing with several East Coast states for the limited federal funding, last month, ConnDOT was awarded two of the federal Sandy grants in the amount of $161 million for the Walk Bridge replacement project and $9 million to upgrade the power system at the New Haven Rail Yard, where Connecticut's rail car fleet is maintained.
Under contract to the State of Connecticut, Metro-North maintains the Walk Bridge and opens and closes it as required by the needs of marine traffic. Built in 1896, the Walk Bridge is the oldest movable bridge along the New Haven Line/Northeast Corridor in Connecticut. The bridge will be replaced with a more resilient "bascule" or vertical lift bridge that opens for marine traffic from one side with a counterweight system and will significantly enhance the safety and reliability of commuter and intercity passenger service along the Northeast corridor.
###
For Immediate Release: October 2, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 1, 2014
THURSDAY: GOV. MALLOY HOLDS NEWS CONFERENCE REGARDING THE WALK BRIDGE IN NORWALK; SPEAKS AT GOVERNOR'S PREVENTION PARTNERSHIP LUNCHEON
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Thursday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference in Norwalk to highlight the planned replacement of the Walk Bridge, the 118-year old bridge that serves on Metro-North's New Haven Line. He will be joined by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman Jim Himes, Mayor Harry W. Rilling, State Senator Bob Duff, Department of Transportation Commissioner James P. Redeker, Connecticut Commuter Rail Council Vice Chairman John Hartwell, commuter advocate Jim Cameron, and other local officials.
At noon, Governor Malloy will speak at the Governor's Prevention Partnership 25th annual luncheon in Hartford. The organization is a not-for-profit partnership between state government and business leaders with a mission to keep Connecticut's youth safe, successful and drug-free.
WHO : Governor Malloy, US Senator Blumenthal, Congressman Himes, Mayor Rilling, State Senator Duff, Commissioner Redeker, John Hartwell, Jim Cameron WHAT : Governor Malloy holds news conference to highlight the planned replacement of the Walk Bridge WHEN : Thursday, October 2, 2014; 10:00 a.m. WHERE : On the dock immediately adjacent to the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk; 10 North Water Street, Norwalk
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the Governor's Prevention Partnership 25th annual luncheon WHEN : Thursday, October 2, 2014; Event begins at 11:30 a.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 12:00 p.m. WHERE : Hartford Marriott; 200 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 1, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 2, 2014
GOV. MALLOY BRIEFED ON EBOLA SITUATION Ebola Outbreak in U.S. Unlikely
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy has been briefed on the Ebola situation by the state Health Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen. The Governor said that although the risk of an Ebola outbreak in the United States is very low, state health officials have been working to prepare should a case of Ebola be identified in Connecticut.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday confirmed the first case of Ebola to be diagnosed in the United States in a person who had traveled to Dallas, Texas from Liberia. The patient did not have symptoms when leaving West Africa, but developed symptoms approximately four days after arriving in the U.S. on September 20.
"CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden reassured the public that by upholding strong health care infection control measures and public health practices, the U.S. can 'stop Ebola in its tracks,'" said Governor Malloy. "Our state health department has been working and communicating with federal and state partners to ensure those strong measures and practices are in place here in Connecticut."
Governor Malloy said that for the past several months, Department of Public Health (DPH) staff have been closely monitoring the Ebola epidemic in West Africa and receiving guidance from the CDC. DPH has sent regular Ebola-related updates and guidance to medical professionals, local health directors, hospitals, and emergency medical services providers.
DPH has asked Connecticut hospitals to ensure they can detect a patient with Ebola, protect healthcare workers so they can safely care for the patient, and respond in a coordinated fashion. Hospitals have been asked to complete a detailed checklist for Ebola preparedness and return it to DPH later this month.
"Any acute care hospital in the state, by following well-defined, standard infection control measures and with the use of proper personal protection equipment, is capable of caring for an Ebola patient," said Dr. Mullen. "We would not need to designate particular hospitals to care a patient who is infected."
In May, DPH reviewed state and local preparedness to address a biologic event with local public health officials from across the state. This review included the requirements for a public health emergency declaration, and what actions state and local agencies could take following such declaration.
"Based on everything presented on yesterday's CDC briefing, I do not believe that the patient diagnosed in Texas puts Connecticut residents at higher risk," said Dr. Mullen. "We have expected that given the size of the West African epidemic, there would eventually be someone diagnosed in our country." ### For Immediate Release: October 2, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell) Contact: William Gerrish Department of Public Health [email protected] 860-509-7270 (office) Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 2, 2014
GOV. MALLOY, LT. GOV. WYMAN AND COMPTROLLER LEMBO COMMEND ANTHEM AND HARTFORD HEALTHCARE FOR CONTRACT RESOLUTION, ANNOUNCE AGREEMENT TO PILOT NEW INTEGRATED CARE PROGRAM
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman and Comptroller Kevin Lembo today commended Anthem and Hartford HealthCare for reaching a contract agreement, while announcing a new commitment between the state and both parties to improve health-care quality, control costs and establish an unprecedented pilot to coordinate care for patients with chronic conditions.
This collaboration is related to, and builds on, the groundbreaking efforts by Governor Malloy's administration and state employee unions to negotiate and achieve better health-care outcomes and savings through ongoing preventive care and wellness initiatives.
Governor Malloy said, "I want to commend Anthem and Hartford Healthcare for reaching an agreement, one that avoids any disruption of service and maintains access to quality, affordable healthcare. It's all too common in matters like this for the different sides to dig in and make negotiations more difficult. I'm glad that didn't happen in this case. The issue of providing good and decent healthcare is too important to let profit margins get in the way, and by working to reach an agreement, both Anthem and Hartford Healthcare have made it clear that wouldn't allow that to happen."
Lt. Governor Wyman said, "I appreciate the commitment shown by both Hartford Healthcare and Anthem to find a solution to the contract challenges. Connecticut's leadership on healthcare is demonstrative of just how important it is to building strong communities and a strong economy. That continuity of care is maintained for Anthem members is very good news."
Comptroller Kevin Lembo said, "Our office has been engaged with Hartford HealthCare and Anthem for several weeks to assist in reaching an outcome that protects patient access to both the hospitals and associated groups. I am grateful that this contract agreement will prevent any disruption in service to patients, including state employees, retirees and their families.
"These discussions have also produced a collaboration involving these partners, the state, the Connecticut Coalition of Health Funds and other employers to improve the quality and control the costs of health care for our members and others. Specifically, we will be working closely with Hartford HealthCare's physician group, Integrated Care Partners (ICP), to pilot innovative integrated care programs in areas like chronic care management.
"Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, COPD, and heart disease are major contributors to our total health care costs, particularly when health care is not effectively and efficiently delivered. We have, therefore, agreed to create programs of coordinated care for these patients that should improve their health and reduce high-cost services such as hospitalizations.
"I look forward to working with all partners involved here to produce better health-care outcomes that benefit patients, as well as taxpayers." ### For Immediate Release: October 2, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 3, 2014
TODAY: GOV. MALLOY PARTICIPATES IN ONE HUNDRED MEN OF COLOR AWARDS CEREMONY
(HARTFORD, CT) - This evening, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will participate in the One Hundred Men of Color awards ceremony in Hartford. The event honors the contributions of those in business, education, service, government and entertainment and the impact they have on the lives of people throughout their communities.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the One Hundred Men of Color awards ceremony WHEN : TODAY - Friday, October 3, 2014; 8:00 p.m. WHERE : The Bushnell; 166 Capitol Avenue, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 3, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 3, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: NEW BROWNFIELD PROGRAM FOCUSES ON REVITALIZING HISTORICALLY SIGNIFICANT INDUSTRIAL STRUCTURES AROUND THE STATE
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is accepting applications for a new round of funding of up to $1.5 million that will be awarded to advance the remediation and redevelopment of historically significant brownfield sites throughout the state.
"The historic properties we are targeting are often situated in strategic locations within our cities and towns, by the water or on visible intersections, and represent a unique opportunity for downtown and waterfront revitalization that is compatible with the existing character of the surrounding community," said Governor Malloy. "This program will consider our state's rich manufacturing and industrial history by incorporating innovative strategies that will highlight the many opportunities around the state to return legacy industrial sites to productive reuse in both urban and rural communities across Connecticut. By doing so, we will also alleviate blight, remove environmental contamination and put these vacant properties back on the tax rolls, all while creating jobs for residents - a win-win for both our state and local economies."
The Historic Brownfield Revitalization Program will provide grants of up to $300,000 per eligible applicant to assess environmental and structural and conditions, and conduct community-driven reuse visioning and planning exercises for historically significant brownfield sites. Through this round of funding, DECD's Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) will work closely with the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation to facilitate innovative strategies for the remediation, stabilization, and redevelopment of historically significant mills and other similar properties throughout the state. SHPO and the Connecticut Trust are currently conducting a study of nearly 400 historic industrial properties historic industrial sites located throughout the State.
"Our combined initiatives to preserve and reuse our historic industrial sites reflect our growing understanding that Connecticut's identity is encompassed in its industrial past not just its iconic town green," said Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation Executive Director Helen Higgins. "Creative and feasible re-use of industrial buildings will transform our state and infuse economic vitality in our towns and cities."
In previous rounds of remediation funding, DECD's Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) has received many applications to assess or remediate mill properties, but often there has been limited reuse planning done to consider innovative redevelopment strategies once remediation is complete. In many rural communities, historic mill villages represent the only high-density developments that provide an opportunity for context-sensitive revitalization that minimizes the impacts of economic development on open space, farmlands and other cultural and environmental resources.
As part of the Historic Brownfield Revitalization Program, DECD and the Trust will convene a workshop from 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM on October 23 at the Millworks complex, located at 156 River Road (Rt. 32) in Willington to discuss this new funding program as well as innovative strategies in historic reuse and rehabilitation design and redevelopment strategies. For more information on this workshop and to register to attend, please visit www.ctbrownfields.gov .
"Many of these historic sites are deteriorating to the point where absent intervention and investment they may need to be demolished for safety purposes," said DECD Commissioner Catherine Smith. "And without a concerted effort to encourage detailed reuse planning, innovative opportunities for creative and adaptive reuse may be lost - opportunities which could result in residential, commercial, industrial or other uses."
"Connecticut has a long and proud industrial history with mills and factories located across the state in communities of all sizes," said Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Robert Klee. "This program will allow these structures that were once so vital to the fabric of Connecticut life to be restored to productive use providing the benefits of environmental cleanup, protection of public health, economic development, and job creation."
"Our historic mill complexes, and the bustling villages that grew around and were integral to them, were once places where state-of-the-art products were made, and we hope to see them reborn as centers of economic vitality," said DECD Deputy Commissioner Kip Bergstrom. "The prospect of a vibrant mix of uses in these complexes - not exclusively living space, but also where state of the art products are created and sold around the world, alongside retail and amenities - is a richer, more exciting economic development scheme, and a prime example of how we achieve two important and sometimes contradictory objectives: economic reinvention and historic preservation."
"Historic sites present unique opportunities to bring new vitality and jobs to historic structures while also honoring Connecticut's industrial heritage," said DECD Director of Waterfront, Brownfield and Transit-Oriented Development Tim Sullivan. "Governor Malloy and Commissioner Smith have led an unprecedented commitment to brownfield redevelopment in Connecticut, and this new initiative will focus specifically on some of the most difficult-to-redevelop sites across the State."
Applications must be submitted to DECD electronically via [email protected] no later than 4:00 PM on November 17, 2014. Questions related to the application must be submitted to [email protected] by October 27, 2014; responses will be posted at ctbrownfields.gov by November 3, 2014.
The rating and ranking sheet for this funding round, which provides further details on application criteria, as well as the program application, are available at www.ctbrownfields.gov .
###
For Immediate Release: October 3, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 3, 2014
GOV. MALLOY AND CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION APPLAUD RELEASE OF FEDERAL FUNDING TO PROVIDE SUPPORTIVE HOUSING TO HOMELESS VETERANS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and the members of Connecticut's Congressional delegation are applauding an announcement made by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that $475,900 in rental vouchers will be made available to local public housing agencies in Connecticut to help 54 homeless veterans find permanent supportive housing. The vouchers are being provided through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program, which combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.
"Between the efforts from the Obama Administration on the federal level and our efforts here on the state level, we are making a significant dent in ending homelessness among veterans," said Governor Malloy, who in September announced that the State of Connecticut would be making 50 additional Rental Assistance Program (RAP) vouchers immediately available to veterans currently receiving Assistance under the HUD-VASH program and are ready to transition out of supportive housing but still need rental assistance. The creation of the additional RAP vouchers targeted toward veterans frees up new opportunities for those seeking supportive housing under HUD-VASH. The Governor anticipates expanding the RAP program for veterans again later this fiscal year as needs continue to be evaluated.
"Our veterans deserve our support, and these efforts are bringing us a great deal closer to building stronger communities and a stronger workforce," Governor Malloy said. "I want to thank the Obama Administration on today's announcement, as well as our state's Congressional delegation, and I look forward to continuing our efforts on this front."
Earlier this year, Governor Malloy joined the Obama Administration's goal of goal of ending homelessness among veterans by the end of 2015.
"Our veterans have talents and skills sought after by business and industry," Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said. "Stable housing, a connection to career supports, and other services are critical to community reintegration. I applaud President Obama, Governor Malloy, and our Congressional delegation for their commitment to veterans and ending veteran homelessness by 2015."
"Connecticut is leading the way nationally in addressing homelessness amongst veterans, but we still have a long way to go here and across the country to fulfill our broken promise to our nation's warriors. I applaud Governor Malloy's commitment to ending veteran homelessness," U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. "As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I will continue my strong advocacy for additional funding to provide not only safe and affordable housing for our homeless veterans, but the mental health, medical and supportive services they need to lead stable, healthy and productive lives."
"No one should have to go without a roof over their head, and Connecticut veterans especially need a permanent place to call home," U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said. "It's our duty to provide our vets with the support they need after all they've given us, which is why I've been fighting hard since I arrived in Congress to make sure Connecticut receives more HUD-VASH funding. The HUD-VASH vouchers announced today will go a long way to help homeless vets and their families in Connecticut, and I thank Secretary Castro for his decisive leadership on this issue."
"I applaud HUD, the VA, and Governor Malloy for ensuring that our veterans will have access to rental assistance and supportive services. Chronic homelessness among veterans remains a serious concern across the country and the announced HUD-VA vouchers will help 42 veterans in Connecticut's 1st Congressional District find permanent supportive housing," said Congressman John Larson. "Our veterans selflessly answered the call to serve the country, and the country should answer their call in times of need."
Congressman Joe Courtney said, "This funding will provide life-changing assistance to Connecticut veterans who are struggling with chronic homelessness, as we have seen in eastern Connecticut with the Griswold veterans housing complex that VASH supports. Governor Malloy has made important strides on the state level, and this commitment from the federal level will further the goal of eliminating homelessness for the men and women who have worn our country's uniform."
"The brave men and women who serve our nation overseas deserve our admiration, our grateful thanks, and, when needed, our assistance," Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro said. "When so many families are struggling to get by, this grant to the Connecticut Department of Social Services and the West Haven Housing Authority will help our homeless veterans find the shelter and support they deserve."
Congressman Jim Himes said, "It is unacceptable that so many veterans find themselves without a home and struggling to find work after serving our nation. One homeless veteran is too many, and we must do better. This federal investment provides a significant boost to our efforts to get homeless veterans in Connecticut off the streets and into decent, reliable housing. I will continue working to ensure that Connecticut's veterans and their families have access to the programs and services they need and deserve."
"When our men and women make the commitment to serve in our military, we must do all that we can to ensure they have our full support, and we must continue that pledge when our veterans return home." said Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty. "The HUD-VASH program is already helping 125 veterans in Waterbury and 15 veterans in Danbury and this additional funding will end homelessness for more veterans."
###
For Immediate Release: October 3, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 3, 2014
SATURDAY: GOV. MALLOY SPEAKS AT EVENT HONORING MILITARY WOMEN OF COLOR; PARTICIPATES IN GERMAN-AMERICAN DAY CELEBRATION
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Saturday at noon, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will make remarks at a luncheon in Windsor hosted by the National Council of Negro Women honoring military women of color.
In the evening, Governor Malloy will make remarks at the 28th annual German-American Day dinner in Plantsville. The event celebrates the cultural, economic and social contributions of German-American people in Connecticut.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the National Council of Negro Women's luncheon honoring military women of color WHEN : Saturday, October 4, 2014; 12:00 p.m. WHERE : Hartford/Windsor Marriott Hotel; 28 Day Hill Road, Windsor
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the 28th annual German-American Day celebration WHEN : Saturday, October 4, 2014; 6:30 p.m. WHERE : Aqua Turf; 556 Mulberry Street, Plantsville
###
For Immediate Release: October 3, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 5, 2014
MONDAY: GOV. MALLOY RELEASES STATEWIDE CRIME DATA
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Monday at noon, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference at the State Capitol in Hartford to release the 2013 Uniform Crime Data Report, which indicates dramatic reductions in crime across Connecticut during the past year. He will be joined at the event by police chiefs and officers from throughout the state.
WHO : Governor Malloy, police chiefs and officers from throughout Connecticut WHAT : News conference to release statewide crime data WHEN : Monday, October 6, 2014; 12:00 p.m. WHERE : State Capitol, Old Judiciary Room; 210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 5, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 6, 2014
GOV. MALLOY RELEASES ANNUAL CRIME REPORT Crime Falls Nearly 9% Across the Board; Violent Crime Down Twice the National Average
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy, joined by representatives from the law enforcement community, today released the state's annual " Crime in Connecticut " report.
Connecticut's overall drop in reported crime was 8.6% in 2013. In that same period, violent crime dropped by 10.8% - double the 5.4% national decline in violent crime as reported in the FBI's Preliminary Semiannual Uniform Crime Report, January-June 2013. Connecticut's property crime dropped 7.6% in 2013, significantly more than the national 5.4% drop in property crime reported.
"The tremendous results we're seeing in reducing crime are to the credit of the hard-working men and women in law enforcement and the dedicated community leaders that are working day in and day out to reduce violence," said Governor Malloy. "We have not seen crime numbers this low in more than forty years, and we have a population that is 20% larger today than it was then. Clearly we have more work to do, but these results show that we are making real progress in making our state safer."
"Connecticut's statistics are impressive. They illustrate the effectiveness of the comprehensive criminal justice initiatives that we've put in place in our municipalities, the State Police, and with our federal partners," said Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora B. Schriro. "But our work is not done. By continuing to work together, we can make all of our streets safer in every community throughout the state."
"Connecticut's decreased crime rates are a testament to Governor Malloy's firm commitment to creating safer communities," said Jeff Matchett, Executive Director of AFSCME Council 15, which represents most police departments in the state. "Throughout his first term, Governor Malloy has provided unprecedented funding of local government and offered state grants ensuring that law enforcement has the best tools and equipment needed to serve our residents. On behalf of AFSCME Council 15 members, I thank the Governor for his continued support of law enforcement, helping us keep Connecticut safe."
Andrew Matthews, President of the Connecticut State Police Union, credits the hard work and dedication of State Troopers and municipal officers for the drop in violent crimes. "Troopers and local police officers risk their lives every day to protect our state from violent crime," he said. "This report is proof that the sacrifices made by Connecticut law enforcement officers keep the citizens of our state safe."
In the three major cities, all reported index crime (violent and property) was down 9% in New Haven, 7% in Hartford, and 15% in Bridgeport.
Violent crime is down 14% in New Haven, 11% in Hartford, and 20% in Bridgeport. Although 2013 was a near-historic low in murders, fatal shootings in these three cities are down 28% in 2014 compared to year-to-date last year, according to data compiled during Project Longevity.
"Smart policing and thoughtful criminal justice initiatives are making a difference throughout Connecticut," said New Haven Police Department Chief Dean Esserman. "Crime is down."
"The credit goes to all the men and women, both sworn and civilian of the Hartford Police Department, who have embraced our community policing model," said Hartford Police Department Chief James C. Rovella. "The police department and the community have built and continue to build on strong relationships in a cooperative effort to reduce property crimes and violent crimes. We look forward to building on those successes in the future."
"We're successfully cracking down on crime in our state's largest city. Police officers are working hard every day to make Bridgeport a safer place to live, work, and raise a family," said Bridgeport Police Department Chief Joseph L. Gaudett, Jr. "Community leaders are collaborating with law enforcement to tackle criminal behavior in our neighborhoods, programs like Project Longevity are leading the charge against recidivism, and efforts like Mayor Finch's gun buyback have taken 1,000 dangerous weapons off our streets. In Bridgeport, we're taking a holistic approach to beating back crime and it's working."
The drop in the number of murders in Connecticut was the most dramatic. The 86 murders are the lowest in 40 years. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner estimates that homicides year-to-date are running at about the historic low number we saw in 2013.
The total number of reported index crimes, violent and property, is the lowest since 1967.
"As these statistics illustrate, crime is on the decline in the State of Connecticut," said Connecticut State Police Colonel Brian Meraviglia. "All law enforcement across the state should be commended for their continuing commitment to making our communities safer place to live and work."
The national crime rates are significantly higher than the Connecticut crime rate. For property crime, the national rate is 2,730 reported crimes per 100,000 population. In Connecticut, it is 1,980. For violent crime, the national rate is 368 per 100,000 and the Connecticut rate is 253 per 100,000.
The Connecticut Uniform Crime Reporting Program has been collecting crime data throughout the state since its inception in 1977. The success of the program has been a result of the complete support of Connecticut Chiefs of Police and the Connecticut State Police Crimes Analysis staff.
"Crime in Connecticut 2013" is the thirty-sixth annual crime report that the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection has published. This annual report continues to be the most comprehensive source of crime-related data for the State of Connecticut.
The publication's source data are based upon monthly reporting of crime activity to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. "Crime in Connecticut" provides police departments, administrators, legislators, advocacy groups, and the general public with important information for planning purposes.
"The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection is proud to have 100% participation of data contributors in the Connecticut UCR program," said Commissioner Schriro. "Connecticut law enforcement has consistently provided the necessary resources to make the Connecticut UCR program one of the most effective programs in the United States." ** Download : Full report - "Crime in Connecticut 2013" ### For Immediate Release: October 6, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell) Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice
October 6, 2014
GOV. MALLOY - LT. GOV. WYMAN STATEMENTS ON SUPREME COURT DECISION TO REJECT APPEALS IN MARRIAGE EQUALITY CASES
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman issued the following statements regarding the U.S. Supreme Court's decision today not to review all five pending marriage equality cases:
Governor Malloy said, "The decision by the U.S. Supreme Court today represents great news not only for the five states at hand, but for everyone in our country who believes that when equality triumphs for one, it triumphs for all. While Connecticut has had marriage equality since 2008, there is still a long way to go to ensure that everyone in our nation is treated equally in this regard. A marriage should not be a right that you gain and lose on a road trip across the country. Equality leads to stronger families and stronger communities, and I join advocates across our nation in celebrating today's decision. There is one thing we know for sure - six years of marriage equality has made Connecticut a stronger state."
Lt. Governor Wyman said, "I applaud today's decision by the U.S. Supreme Court rejecting appeals from several states that would have denied same-sex couples the freedom to marry. Because of the action announced today, Americans in 30 states will soon enjoy this fundamental right regardless of their sexual orientation. This is an important moment in the long struggle to ensure that all Americans enjoy equal justice under the law. I commend the Supreme Court."
###
For Immediate Release: October 6, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 6, 2014
TUESDAY: GOV. MALLOY AND LT. GOV. WYMAN ATTEND DEDICATION CEREMONY OF THE JACKSON LABORATORY IN FARMINGTON
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Tuesday afternoon, Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman will participate in the grand opening and dedication ceremony of The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine in Farmington. The facility is anticipated to grow hundreds of jobs in the bioscience field throughout the region.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Lt. Governor Wyman WHAT : Grand opening and dedication ceremony of The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine WHEN : Tuesday, October 7, 2014; 2:00 p.m. WHERE : The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine; 10 Discovery Drive, Farmington
###
For Immediate Release: October 6, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 7, 2014
GOV. MALLOY SIGNS ORDER THAT WILL ASSIST THE STATE'S EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN THE EVENT OF A CONFIRMED INFECTION OR EXPOSURE TO EBOLA Order Gives State Officials the Ability to Coordinate a Targeted Quarantine
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today signed an order that gives the Commissioner of the Department of Public Health (DPH) the ability to effectively quarantine an individual or a group of individuals who may have been exposed to or infected with the Ebola virus.
The order is not being executed because a specific case has been identified, but rather as a precautionary and preparatory measure in the event that the state has either a confirmed infection or has confirmed that someone at risk of developing the infection is residing in the state.
"We are taking this action today to ensure that we are prepared, in advance, to deal with any identified cases in which someone has been exposed to the virus or, worst case, infected," said Governor Malloy. "Our state's hospitals have been preparing for it, and public health officials from the state are working around the clock to monitor the situation. Right now, we have no reason to think that anyone in the state is infected or at risk of infection. But it is essential to be prepared and we need to have the authorities in place that will allow us to move quickly to protect public health, if and when that becomes necessary. Signing this order will allow us to do that."
By signing the order, the Governor is declaring a public health emergency, which gives the Commissioner of DPH the authority to quarantine and isolate individuals whom the commissioner reasonably believes has been exposed to the Ebola virus. Without the declaration, there is no statewide ability to isolate or quarantine - instead, the authority rests with each individual local public health director.
"While local health officials are certainly on the front lines of this effort, at the ready to address any situation, having this order in place will allow us to have a more coordinated response in the event that someone in Connecticut either tests positive for Ebola or has been identified as someone who is at risk of developing it," DPH Commissioner Jewel Mullen. "We have had numerous conversations with both local public health officials in the state and senior officials at the Center for Disease Control. We have no reason to believe that anyone in Connecticut is infected or at risk of infection, but if it does happen, we want to be ready."
** Download : Declaration of Public Health Emergency
###
For Immediate Release: October 7, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell) Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 7, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: JAX OFFICIAL OPENING REPRESENTS SIGNIFICANT STEP FORWARD FOR CONNECTICUT BIOSCIENCE INDUSTRY
(FARMINGTON, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today joined The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) President and CEO Dr. Edison Liu, Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman, UConn President Susan Herbst and national scientific leaders to celebrate the official opening of JAX's new nonprofit research institute for Genomic Medicine.
The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, which was built pursuant to Governor Malloy's "Bioscience Connecticut" initiative, was completed on schedule and on budget on the campus of the UConn Health Center in Farmington. In collaboration with state government, universities, hospitals and insurance companies, JAX is recruiting new talent, attracting top-level scientists, generating public and private investment and conducting innovative scientific research to transform the field of personalized medicine.
"We invested in Bioscience Connecticut because we knew this emerging industry would pay immediate and long-term dividends for our state by positioning us as a global leader in personalized medicine and innovative research, attracting new business investment and creating good-paying jobs with good benefits for our residents," said Governor Malloy. "The speed at which this project was completed and the great work that is already underway at JAX Genomic Medicine demonstrates that our investment is already paying off. We could not ask for a better partner than JAX and we look forward to continuing this successful collaboration between the state and this world-renowned research institute."
JAX's decision to select the UConn Health Center Campus for the site of its new genomic medicine research facility was a direct result of the state's investment in "Bioscience Connecticut". In 2011, Governor Malloy introduced his bioscience initiative to jumpstart Connecticut's economy by creating hundreds of immediate construction-related jobs, generating good- paying scientific, research and administrative jobs for residents and combining the resources of government, the private sector and research institutions and universities to advance cutting-edge biomedical innovation in the state.
"Biomedical research is a cornerstone economic driver, and thanks to Governor Malloy, Jackson Laboratory, and the support from the General Assembly, Connecticut is positioned to play a significant role in the industry," said Lt. Governor Wyman. "Bioscience Connecticut will help us establish Connecticut as a research hub, attract and retain top tier scientists, and create economic growth to keep us globally competitive. We welcome JAX to Farmington."
"Genomic medicine represents the next great frontier in the quest to improve human health," said Dr. Liu, President and CEO of JAX. "With this new facility, we are poised to play a leading role in opening up that frontier and bringing the benefits of scientific discovery into the lives of patients."
In 2012, the State Bond Commission, chaired by Governor Malloy, authorized $291 million in state funding for the construction of JAX's Genomic Medicine facility, which JAX broke ground on in January 2013. Construction of the facility in Farmington was managed by Connecticut-based companies, employed about 270-300 construction workers daily on the job site and had higher than required participation for small business and minority-owned enterprises. o The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, which was under a Project Labor Agreement (PLA), awarded more than 87 percent of total bid packages - $94 million out of $108 million in contracts - to Connecticut-based contractors who used hundreds of local workers. o The project awarded 18.5 percent of contract value to Minority Business Enterprise firms - exceeding its target of 6.35 percent by more than 12 percent. o The project exceeded its target of awarding 25 percent (25.8 percent targeted) of contract value to Small Business Enterprise (SBE) firms. o The project achieved 66 of the 68 points needed for LEED Gold designation from the U.S. Green Building Council, signifying its compliance with environmentally sound design, construction and maintenance standards.
When negotiating its deal with the state, JAX agreed to employ at least 300 biomedical researchers, technicians and support staff by 2020, of which 90 employees or 30 percent of the total number of employees - whichever is higher - would have to be senior scientist positions. o Recruitment and hiring are ongoing, but at the end of last year, JAX exceeded its hiring target of 63 total employees for 2013 with 79 employees on the payroll, more than 30 percent of whom were residents of Connecticut prior to their employment. o In 2013, JAX had 48 Ph.D.-level senior scientists on staff, which was 60 percent more than last year's hiring target of 19 senior scientists. o As of September 2014, JAX employs 150 full-time workers, including 70 Scientists with M.D. or Ph.D. degrees and 15 Principal investigators. o With an average annual wage of $124,703 for employees - more than one and a half times the average wage in Connecticut - JAX exceeded its commitment to pay employees wages equal to 125 percent of the state's average wage.
While the new Genomic Medicine facility was under construction, JAX's scientific staff in Connecticut operated in a temporary lab space while creating and maintaining collaborations among doctors, researchers and the biomedical industry to bring genomic research and technology into the clinical setting and help build Connecticut's bioscience industry. To date, the faculty at JAX Genomic Medicine has entered into research agreements with clinical and academic institutions, garnered substantial grant funding and applied for patents for several research processes and discoveries. o As of September 2014, more than $14 million in federal research grants have been awarded to JAX Genomic Medicine scientists, including five federal grant awards in 2013, its first full years of operation, worth a total of $3.2 million. o Scientists at JAX Genomic Medicine submitted three patent applications last year based on innovations in stem cell technology, treatments of inflammatory disease and DNA analysis. o Key scientific journals published four seminal articles arising from research conducted by the Genomic Medicine faculty in 2013 and three Jackson Laboratory researchers made the list of the nation's most promising young investigators in genomics research in a survey presented by GenomeWeb, an influential publication in the field. o In April 2013, JAX entered into a Collaborative Research Agreement with Connecticut Children's Medical Center to explore new approaches to cancer treatment and, in addition to UConn, JAX Genomic Medicine is in active discussions with other institutions of higher education including Wesleyan University and Connecticut College to co-develop seminars, lecture series and genomics courses. o Last fall, JAX Genomic Medicine received important state and federal licensing and approval to accept and process clinical samples of human cells and tissues for DNA testing, paving the way for clinical collaborations with other health facilities.
A Battelle Memorial Institute study reports that, in 2012 alone, human genome sequencing projects and related research and industry activities generated $65 billion in U.S. economic output, $31 billion toward the 2012 U.S. gross domestic product, $19 billion in personal income and 152,000 jobs. ### For Immediate Release: October 7, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell) Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 7, 2014
GOV. MALLOY AND LT. GOV. WYMAN STATEMENT ON HARTFORD FIRE
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman released the following statement in response to the loss of one firefighter and the injury to three other firefighters in the line of duty tonight in Hartford.
"Tonight's tragic events are another reminder of the incredible sacrifice that our state's first responders make on a daily basis. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the hero we lost tonight and those who were injured in the line of duty in our capital city."
###
For Immediate Release: October 7, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 8, 2014
GOV. MALLOY DIRECTS CONNECTICUT FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF IN HONOR OF HARTFORD FIREFIGHTER
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that he is directing State of Connecticut flags to half-staff in honor of the Hartford firefighter who passed away Tuesday night while fighting a house fire in the city.
"Last night's tragic events are another reminder of the incredible sacrifice that our state's first responders make on a daily basis," Governor Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said in a joint statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the hero we lost and those who were injured in the line of duty in our capital city."
Flags will remain at half-staff until services are held, the date of which has not been determined.
###
For Immediate Release: October 8, 2014
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 8, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES IMMEDIATE ACTION PLAN TO ADDRESS YOUTH BEHAVIORAL HEALTH NEEDS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced immediate action he will take to improve the behavioral health system for children in Connecticut. The Governor's action plan is intended to provide immediate relief to the Connecticut children and families who have to navigate the children's mental health system.
" DCF's plan for meeting the mental, emotional, and behavioral health needs of Connecticut's children is comprehensive, well thought-out, and includes input from those who know what our system really needs - the providers who serve children and the children and families themselves." Governor Malloy said. "No child in mental health crisis should have to wait days to get access to the treatment they need. That is why I am announcing a series of strategies that share the same goals as the comprehensive DCF plan, and can be implemented immediately. We cannot delay taking these first steps which will spur the changes we want to see with the ongoing implementation of DCF's comprehensive plan."
In line with national trends, Connecticut emergency departments have seen annual increases in the number of youth with behavioral health issues. These increases, partnered with seasonal patterns of increased utilization, are leading to emergency department discharge delays. The Governor's immediate action plan will increase capacity in the system, including addressing the unique treatment needs of children with autism spectrum disorder and behavioral health challenges.
In addition, Public Act 13-178 required the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to develop a comprehensive, integrated plan to meet the mental, emotional, and behavioral health needs of all children in Connecticut. DCF's plan includes recommendations that will fundamentally reform Connecticut's behavioral health system over a number of years.
The Governor's plan includes implementation of a package of initiatives funded with both existing and new or reallocated resources. Governor Malloy announced that he will: o Build capacity to address increased needs by:
. Increasing crisis stabilization and respite bed capacity for both DCF and non-DCF youth by repurposing existing vacant DCF Safe Home beds and increasing clinical staffing, with an additional $1 million in annualized funding; . Incentivizing additional Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) capacity by offering a higher statewide Medicaid rate of $465/day, with $1.6 million in existing FY 15 funding; . Expanding community-based clinical services and in-home alternatives that will assist in keeping children in their home and out of higher levels of care with $2 million in existing FY 15 funding; . Posting Emergency Mobile Psychiatric Services (EMPS) staff in emergency departments through funding from the FFY 15 Community Mental Health Services Block Grant; and . Partnering with the Office of the Healthcare Advocate to enhance access to behavioral health treatment for commercially- insurance populations. o Address the unique treatment needs of youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and behavioral health challenges by:
. Providing specialized supplemental services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and developing an RFP for up to three specialized inpatient beds for individuals experiencing the most acute and complex ASD and co-occurring psychiatric disorders, with $1 million in existing FY 15 funding; . Providing in-home supports for high need children with ASD to divert them from inpatient and other residential settings with $300,000 of existing FY 15 funding; and . Ensuring Medicaid coverage for the treatment of children under 21 with ASD.
In addition to these immediate action steps, the Governor will also consider creating community-based Behavioral Assessment Centers (BHAC) as alternatives to care in hospital emergency departments and enhancing EMPS by adding more clinicians and extending hours of service.
"This new initiative will be a major advancement in the state's ability to handle the treatment of children who are living with mental health issues," said Sen. Danté Bartolomeo, co-chair of the Legislature's Children's Committee. "Through legislation passed by the Children's Committee we have taken steps to identify and treat children at an earlier age, regardless of the type of insurance coverage they have. This new initiative will help ensure there are beds available in treatment facilities, and support teams who can work with families and patients who want to receive treatment at home. It is critical to the treatment of any child that their family be as involved as possible, and I am happy to see that this plan does just that."
"I am happy to hear that Governor Malloy is listening to what the communities are saying regarding the mental health needs of children and families in crisis," said Rep. Toni Walker, co-chair of the Appropriations Committee. "This plan is a positive step forward in creating a mental health system that works."
"I'm very encouraged that Governor Malloy is looking at options to reduce the strain that our emergency rooms are under, and that our families are under, regarding mental health treatment for our children," said Sen. Beth Bye, co-chair of the Appropriations Committee. "Right now there is a lack of appropriate services available for them."
"As the House Chair of the Committee on Children I am thrilled that Gov. Malloy is being bold in bringing issues raised in PA 13-178, An Act Concerning The Mental Emotional and Behavioral Health of Youths, to fruition," said Rep. Diana Urban, co- chair of the Legislature's Children's Committee. "His initiatives will give families the tools to cope with the stress and frustration of looking for help for their children with mental health challenges. It is a huge step forward in the well-being of Connecticut's children and families."
Department of Children and Families Commissioner Joette Katz said that the plan announced by the Governor reflects the fact that the best way to respond to children in crisis is to enhance community based services that can intervene before the crisis occurs. "We have seen repeatedly that if we provide effective in- home and community-based services, we can prevent children from having to go to less-than-ideal settings - like a hospital emergency department - when the situation becomes acute. The best solution is to offer help before that becomes necessary."
**Download: Governor's Immediate Action Plan to Enhance the Behavioral Health System for Children
###
For Immediate Release: October 8, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 8, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: MICROGRID PROJECTS IN BRIDGEPORT AND MILFORD AWARDED $5 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING TO HARDEN ENERGY SYSTEM Innovative Localized Power System Keeps Lights on Even When Power Goes Out
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that new microgrid projects in Bridgeport and Milford - which will help keep critical buildings and facilities in those two cities powered even when the grid goes down - have been awarded a total of $5.1 million through the second round of the innovative Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Microgrid Program.
"Residents of Bridgeport and Milford will benefit from these microgrids because they will keep lights on and the power running at critical locations even when the lights go out elsewhere," Governor Malloy said. "Microgrids are an essential part of our strategy to make certain we can better withstand the type of catastrophic storms we have experienced in recent years - and the extended loss of power that accompanies them."
The two projects receiving funding are:
Bridgeport o University of Bridgeport (UB) - Power will be provided to campus buildings including a dining hall, recreation center, student center, police station and two residence halls. The DEEP microgrid grant will provide almost $2.2 million in funding for eligible design, engineering and interconnection infrastructure costs. The microgrid will be powered by a 1.4MW fuel cell. The UB buildings will be available to serve city residents during a power outage or emergency. The on-campus facilities can provide shelter to about 2,700 residents and the dining hall can provide food service to residents as well as emergency responders. This project is a logical companion to a Bridgeport microgrid project funded in a first round of grants, which will provide power largely for critical city services.
Milford o Power will be provided to the Parsons Government Center, middle school, senior center, senior housing and city hall. The middle school and senior center will be available as shelters for residents during a power outage. The DEEP microgrid grant will provide about $2.9 million in funding for eligible design, engineering and interconnection infrastructure costs. The microgrid will be powered by (2) 148kW natural gas CHP units, 120kW of PV and a 100kW battery energy storage system.
Created under Public Act 12-148 , DEEP's Microgrid Pilot Program is increasing the safety and quality of life to Connecticut residents during electric grid outage situations. Microgrids will provide electricity to critical facilities and town centers on a 24/7 daily basis and will include a system to isolate the microgrid so it can provide power even when there is a large-scale outage.
A first round of grants under the program in July 2013 awarded $18 million to nine microgrid projects in Bridgeport, Fairfield, Groton, Hartford, Middletown, Storrs, Windham, and Woodbridge as part of the Governor's Storm Legislation . One of those nine projects - at Wesleyan University, Middletown - is already operational. The remaining projects are in various stages of development.
The projects will provide power for government services and businesses that are critical during extreme weather events such as police, fire, and emergency response teams, shelters, dining facilities, state and town emergency response centers, grocery stores, and gas stations.
Funding for a second round of microgrid pilot projects was authorized by the General Assembly in 2013. Governor Malloy will request that funding for the new Bridgeport and Milford projects be approved by the state Bond Commission.
As part of DEEP's efforts to continuously improve the Program and to increase municipal resiliency across the state, DEEP will schedule a workshop to receive comments and feedback from program participants and other interested persons.
"We are working to modernize, upgrade, and strengthen the electric grid system but there are still going to be times when the forces of nature are just too strong and the power does go out," Governor Malloy said. "These are the moments when microgrids will prove to be invaluable."
"Connecticut has experienced firsthand the devastating effects that major weather events can have on the electric grid and is working to ensure that when the power goes out, the lights can stay on at essential facilities and shelters," said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. "Microgrids improve health and safety by allowing emergency services to continue to operate and giving residents a place to seek shelter and stay warm and dry."
Milford Mayor Ben Blake said, "Over the past few years, Milford has been tested and tested again by storms of biblical proportion. Given our city's history, we believe deeply in storm preparedness and a hardened infrastructure. Not only will this microgrid provide a new layer of fortification during storms, it will also create significant energy savings. I appreciate Governor Malloy's and DEEP's commitment to projects that both drive efficiencies and bolster our resiliency."
"Sustainable and affordable energy is an increasingly important component of the new energy mix at the University of Bridgeport," said UB Director of Facilities George Estrada. "Our Renewable Energy Research Lab evaluates technologies in energy conversion, utilization, and storage in fuel cells, solar, wind, and hybrid systems. This living lab is motivated by the strong need to prepare the next generation of inter-disciplinary engineers who have a comprehensive background in sustainable energy, and this fuel cell installation will help us achieve our goals by enabling us to practice what we teach."
###
For Immediate Release: October 8, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Contact: Dennis Schain Department of Energy and Environmental Protection [email protected] 860-424-3110 (office) 860-462-3468 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 8, 2014
GOV. MALLOY NOMINATES FOUR CONNECTICUT RESIDENTS TO SUPERIOR COURT, FIVE TO BOARD OF PARDONS AND PAROLES
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that he is nominating four Connecticut residents to serve as judges on the Superior Court. He also announced the appointment of five residents to fill vacancies on the Board of Pardons and Paroles.
"I am proud to nominate these outstanding men and women to the Connecticut Superior Court and to the Board of Pardons and Paroles," Governor Malloy said. "These nominees will bring to the bench and to the board the skills, the temperament, and a diversity of experiences and backgrounds that will allow them to serve our state with distinction, fairness, integrity, and respect for the people of Connecticut."
According to the judicial branch, there are currently 13 vacancies on the Superior Court, with additional vacancies anticipated later this year.
Superior Court nominations
Kevin Doyle of North Haven: Doyle is currently a Senior Assistant State's Attorney for the Judicial District of New Haven. In this role, he is responsible for a varied caseload of serious felony cases, provides informal mentoring to younger prosecutors, serves on a national committee dealing with the prosecution of child physical abuse cases, and serves as Computer Case Presentation representatives. He received a B.A. from Providence College and a J.D. from American University Washington College of Law.
Alex V. Hernandez of Bridgeport: Hernandez is a member of Pullman - Comley's Litigation Department and chair of its White Collar, Criminal Defense and Corporate Investigations Section. Previously, he was the Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Fairfield County office of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Connecticut, where he supervised 12 attorneys and six support personnel in the investigation and prosecution of criminal tax fraud, white collar crime, fraud, public corruption, computer-related offenses, theft of trade secrets, and violent felonies. He received an A.B. from Harvard University and a J.D. from Stanford Law School.
Sheila M. Prats of Simsbury: Prats is currently a self-employed attorney, specializing in criminal, family, social security and wills. Previously, she served as Deputy Assistant Public Defender for the State of Connecticut Division of Public Defender Services. Prats previously served as a Superior Court judge from November 2000 to August 2003 before stepping down to attend to family matters. Born in Puerto Rico, she received a B.A. from the University of Connecticut and a J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law.
Omar A. Williams of West Hartford: Williams is currently an Assistant Public Defender for the State of Connecticut Division of Public Defender Services, where he has served since 2001. In his spare time, he volunteers with the Connecticut Food Bank and with the Public Defender Training Program for New Attorneys. He also serves on the Board of Managers with St. Thomas's Day School in New Haven. He received a B.A. from the University of Connecticut and a J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law.
Board of Pardons and Paroles appointments
Joy Chance of Bloomfield [Full-Time]: Chance has over 16 years of supervisory experience evaluating parolees for appropriate placement in parole-supervised placement programs. She most recently worked as a therapist with Connection, Inc. in Middletown, and served as Director of Employment, Education and Training with the Open Hearth Association. She received a Master of Education from Cambridge College.
Kenneth Ireland of New Britain [Full-Time]: Ireland currently works at the Capitol Region Education Council, where he serves as a bookkeeper. Following a wrongful conviction, Ireland served over 19 years in Connecticut prisons. Working in cooperation with the Connecticut Innocence Project, he was exonerated in August 2009 when DNA evidence proved he did not commit the crime.
Rufaro Berry of Hamden [Full-Time]: Berry is a paralegal, most recently employed with Bershtein, Bershtein - Bershtein, P.C. in Hamden. She received her B.A. in criminal justice from Albertus Magnus College.
Patricia Thomas Camp of Bloomfield [Part-Time]: Camp currently serves as Chair of the Board with Zezzo House, a nonprofit organization in Hartford providing safe, decent, affordable housing for lower-income families whose head of household has tested positive for HIV. She received her B.A. from Rice University, her M.ED from the University of Houston, and her J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School.
Terry M. Borjeson of Newington [Part-Time]: Borjeson is currently an elected official in Newington, serving as Majority Leader on the Town Council. He has served as a subject matter expert in the development of case management software for probation and parole and also served as Senior Area Director for Adult Services with Community Solutions, Inc., where he was responsible for directing the operations of a number of adult criminal justice programs in Connecticut and New Jersey. He received his B.A. from Fairfield University and his MBA from the University of Connecticut.
###
For Immediate Release: October 8, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 8, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: PROMOTING THE EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IS GOOD FOR CONNECTICUT Newly-Invigorated Committee Tasked to Increase Employment Opportunities For People With Disabilities
(HARTFORD, CT) - As part of a continuing effort to promote the employment of people with disabilities, Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that the Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (GCEPD) has been re- invigorated with a new chairperson and committee members from the state's business community, non-profit organizations, state agencies, and people with disabilities. The GCEPD will meet at 9 a.m. on October 9th at the Labor Department's Wethersfield office.
"Too many times we hear that employers are having difficulty hiring people with disabilities because they can't find qualified candidates or they are not sure how to find a candidate," Governor Malloy noted. "One of the main goals of this committee is to help ensure employers and jobseekers have the resources and knowledge they need to make the right connections, be it connections to educational or community resources, access to career fairs, or assistance regarding accommodations in the workplace."
The GCEPD, housed under the Department of Labor, is a volunteer committee with members appointed by Labor Commissioner Sharon M. Palmer. The newly-appointed chairperson, Jonathan Slifka, also serves as the Governor's Liaison to the Disability Community. State agency appointments include representatives from the Department of Administrative Services, the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind, Department of Transportation, the Labor Department, and the Department of Social Services.
"We are excited to have so many knowledgeable committee members that will be instrumental in helping the GCEPD fulfill its mission of developing programs and initiatives to increase statewide employment opportunities of people with disabilities," Commissioner Palmer noted. "The committee will also support the activities of related organizations throughout the state to tap into available resources and programs."
Initiatives the committee will be looking at include providing career fairs, promoting educational programs that can foster upward mobility in the workplace, and increasing employer awareness of the skills and abilities that a person with a disability brings to the workplace.
"There are so many elements that go into looking at the complete picture of the employment of persons' with disabilities, from education and outreach to transportation," said Chairperson Jonathan Slifka, Governor's Liaison to the Disability Community. I am excited about the group that has been put together and I am eager to get started on this critical mission of bringing more of our disability community in to the workforce."
According to Commissioner Palmer, outreach and education will play a large role in the work of the committee. For example, while an employer may feel that providing accommodations for an employee with disabilities could be expensive, a 2010 Employment of Americans with Disabilities survey revealed that over 70 percent of the employers reported that no accommodations were needed. Of those making accommodations, 50 percent said they were made at no cost and 42 percent reported that a one-time accommodation cost less than $600.
"Hiring individuals with disabilities makes good business sense for employers and for our state," added Governor Malloy. "Not only is this a valuable pool of skilled workers offering talent, diversity and strong initiative, but employers report that employees with disabilities often have higher retention rates, which can reduce the high cost of turnover."
###
For Immediate Release: October 8, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 9, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: LEGACY OF THE HARTFORD WHALERS DESERVES A CONTINUED PRESENCE AT THE XL CENTER Governor Asks Whalers Banners to be Put Back into Place in the Arena
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that he asked the leadership of the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) to rehang the Hartford Whalers banners at the newly renovated XL Center, and the agency wholeheartedly agreed.
"The XL Center holds great value for the State of Connecticut and for our capital city, and we are proud of its legacy - which includes nearly two decades of being the home of Whalers hockey," Governor Malloy said. "This arena serves as an important economic driver for the Hartford region, and while the newly unveiled renovations represent its next phase, we should continue to honor and celebrate its history."
CRDA has indicated that the banners will be up in time for the opening game of the Hartford Wolf Pack on Saturday, October 18.
###
For Immediate Release: October 9, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 9, 2014
FRIDAY: GOV. MALLOY PARTICIPATES IN ARCHBISHOP'S COLUMBUS DAY BREAKFAST IN NEW HAVEN
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Friday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will speak at Archbishop of Hartford Leonard P. Blair's annual Columbus Day Breakfast in New Haven. Proceeds benefit students in Catholic elementary schools in Greater New Haven. Earlier this year, Governor Malloy signed legislation that expanded the School Security Grant program to include private and religious schools.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy participates in Archbishop's annual Columbus Day Breakfast WHEN : Friday, October 10, 2014; Event begins at 7:30 a.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 8:00 a.m. WHERE : Anthony's Ocean View; 450 Lighthouse Road, New Haven
###
For Immediate Release: October 9, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 10, 2014
GOV. MALLOY PROCLAIMS 'HUSKY HOCKEY WEEKEND' IN CONNECTICUT, ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO SUPPORT TOP-TIER COLLEGE HOCKEY Governor Celebrates Beginning of a New Era for UConn Men's Ice Hockey
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy has officially designated Friday, October 10 through Sunday, October 12, 2014 as " Husky Hockey Weekend " in the State of Connecticut to celebrate the start of the 2014-2015 college hockey season, which will see the UConn Men's Ice Hockey team beginning a new era as they debut in the highly-competitive Hockey East Association.
The Huskies will also begin playing home games this season at the XL Center in downtown Hartford, with other select games at the Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport. As the team enters this new era, Governor Malloy is encouraging all sports fans and families throughout the state to attend games and demonstrate our state's commitment to top-tier college hockey.
"This is an exciting time for college hockey in our state as the Huskies enter this elite conference and have an opportunity to exhibit the growing strength of their program," Governor Malloy said. "Between the UConn Huskies, the Quinnipiac Bobcats, the Yale Bulldogs, and the Sacred Heart Pioneers, Connecticut is the center of the college hockey universe. I wish Coach Cavanaugh and the team the best of luck as they enter Hockey East this season."
The Huskies begin the 2014-2015 season with back-to-back games at Penn State on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. The team's first home game of the season will be held November 5 at the XL Center against Boston College.
** Download : Governor Malloy's proclamation designating October 10 through October 12, 2014 as "Husky Hockey Weekend"
###
For Immediate Release: October 10, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 10, 2014
SATURDAY: GOV. MALLOY ATTENDS EVENTS IN NEW HAVEN AND NEW LONDON
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Saturday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will speak at an event celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Sargent Manufacturing Company in New Haven. The company is a market leader in the manufacturing of hardware products for commercial facilities, including cylindrical and mortise locks, door operators and egress devices. It is part of the Assa Abloy Group brand.
Following that, Governor Malloy will kick off Artspace's Alternative Space Weekend, which is part of the nonprofit organization's City-Wide Open Studios Festival. The exhibition provides artists with the chance to show their work in historic properties throughout New Haven.
In the evening, Governor Malloy will make remarks at the 10th annual Homeless to Hopeful benefit dance, which raises funds for two shelters in New London - Covenant Shelter of New London and the New London Homeless Hospitality Center.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the 150th anniversary celebration of the Sargent Manufacturing Company WHEN : Saturday, October 11, 2014; Event begins at 11:00 a.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 11:30 a.m. WHERE : Sargent Manufacturing; 110 Sargent Drive, New Haven
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy kicks off Artspace's Alternative Space Weekend WHEN : Saturday, October 11, 2014; 12:00 p.m. WHERE : Goffe Street Armory; 290 Goffe Street, New Haven
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at 10th annual Homeless to Hopeful benefit dance WHEN : Saturday, October 11, 2014; Event begins at 7:00 p.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 8:30 p.m. WHERE : Ocean Beach Park; 1225 Ocean Avenue, New London
###
For Immediate Release: October 10, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 11, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: FLAGS TO FLY HALF-STAFF SUNDAY IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTER MEMORIAL SERVICE State Flags Have Also Been at Half-Staff in Honor of Fallen Hartford Firefighter Kevin Bell
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that in accordance to a proclamation from President Barack Obama , both U.S. and state flags will fly at half-staff on Sunday, October 12, 2014, in recognition of the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, which honors the sacrifices of firefighters throughout the country for their service.
State flags have also been flying at half-staff for the past several days in honor of Hartford firefighter Kevin Bell, who lost his life battling a fire on Tuesday night. They will be raised to full staff at sunset on Monday, October 13, following his funeral.
"Firefighters contribute so much to the foundation of our communities. Their resilience, courage and bravery keep all of us safe, and we are forever grateful for the sacrifices they make to protect our neighborhoods," Governor Malloy said. "This year, the national observance honoring fallen firefighters happens to come at a time when we are mourning the loss of a Hartford firefighter who gave his life serving his home city. We are keeping the Bell family in our prayers, as well as the families of those who were injured while fighting that blaze. We will never forget the sacrifices that they have made to protect and serve our cities and our state."
"We are deeply grateful to our firefighters and the families who support them in this work," Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said. "Every time they are called, these first responders put service before self. They are community leaders and guardians of the public safety. Today, we reflect on our fallen firefighters and mourn with their families, friends, and firefighter brothers and sisters; and our prayers are with the Bell family and friends as they cope with the devastating loss of Kevin, a Hartford hero."
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service marks the final day of national Fire Prevention Week.
###
For Immediate Release: October 11, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 13, 2014
GOV. MALLOY DIRECTS FLAGS TO FULL-STAFF AT SUNSET ON MONDAY
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy is directing State of Connecticut flags to return to full-staff at sunset on Monday, October 13, 2014. State flags have been flying at half-staff in honor of Hartford Firefighter Kevin Bell.
###
For Immediate Release: October 13, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 13, 2014
TUESDAY: GOV. MALLOY HIGHLIGHTS GROWTH OF MANUFACTURING PROGRAMS AT STATE'S COMMUNITY COLLEGES; ATTENDS GRAND OPENING OF NEW FITNESS CENTER AT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN HARTFORD
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Tuesday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will join Congressman John Larson and Connecticut Board of Regents President Dr. Gregory W. Gray at a news conference in Manchester to highlight a recently approved federal grant that will assist in the expansion of manufacturing programs across all of Connecticut's 12 community colleges.
Following that, Governor Malloy will make remarks at the grand opening ceremony of the new fitness center at Maria Sanchez Elementary School in Hartford. The school is one of three in Connecticut that are receiving new state-of-the-art fitness centers developed through a partnership between the state and the National Foundation for Governors' Fitness Councils (NFGFC). The other winning schools are Washington Middle School in Meriden and Derby Middle School in Derby. Also participating in the event will be Senator Richard Blumenthal, Mayor Pedro Segarra, NFGFC Chairman and fitness personality Jake Steinfeld ("Body by Jake"), and others.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Congressman Larson, Dr. Gray WHAT : News conference to highlight the growth of manufacturing programs at Connecticut's 12 community colleges WHEN : Tuesday, October 14, 2014; 10:00 a.m. WHERE : Manchester Community College, Great Path Academy building; Great Path, Manchester
------
WHO : Governor Malloy, Senator Blumenthal, Mayor Segarra, Jake Steinfeld WHAT : Grand opening of new state-of-the-art fitness center at Maria Sanchez Elementary School WHEN : Tuesday, October 14, 2014; 11:00 a.m. WHERE : Maria Sanchez Elementary School; 176 Babcock Street, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 13, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 14, 2014
WEDNESDAY: GOV. MALLOY SPEAKS AT FORUM ON HEALTHCARE INNOVATION
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Wednesday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will make opening remarks at the Forum on Healthcare Innovation, hosted by The Jackson Laboratory, UConn and Yale University. The event seeks to bring together researchers, healthcare providers, insurers and investors from Connecticut and around the country to discuss what is needed to drive innovation in ways that will improve health, reduce healthcare spending, and fuel economic growth. The Governor will discuss his commitment to growing jobs in this emerging sector of Connecticut's economy.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy makes opening remarks at the Forum on Healthcare Innovation WHEN : Wednesday, October 15, 2014; 8:00 a.m. WHERE : Hilton Hartford; 315 Trumbull Street, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 14, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 15, 2014
THURSDAY: GOV. MALLOY GIVES UPDATE ON STATE'S PRECAUTIONARY EBOLA MEASURES
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Thursday afternoon, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference in Hartford to provide residents with information on Connecticut's precautionary and preparatory measures regarding the Ebola virus. He will be joined by Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen and other state officials.
Earlier today, the Governor convened a unified command meeting with the relevant agencies to continue discussing the state's coordination of precautionary and preparatory measures regarding the Ebola virus. Below is a photo from that meeting, which occurred at the state Emergency Operations Center. In this photo, Commissioner Mullen briefs the Governor:
Click to enlarge
WHO : Governor Malloy, Commissioner Mullen WHAT : News conference to provide an update on the state's Ebola precautionary measures WHEN : Thursday, October 16, 2014; 2:00 p.m. WHERE : State Emergency Operations Center, William A. O'Neill State Armory; 360 Broad Street, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 15, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 16, 2014
GOV. MALLOY OUTLINES STATE'S EFFORTS TO SAFEGUARD AGAINST EBOLA
Announces that Commissioner Mullen has Invoked DPH's Quarantine and Isolation Authority in New Haven
Pledges to Provide Any Resources or Personnel Necessary to Deal with a Potential Exposure or Infection
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced today that the State of Connecticut is taking additional steps to strengthen the level of preparedness for the Ebola virus by enacting the quarantine and isolation protocols that were authorized under the order he signed last week. In addition, the Governor is directing that every hospital in the state perform a drill within the next week to assure that procedures and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are up to standard.
While conversations between different levels of government and state hospitals have been ongoing for months, the Governor today also announced that he is convening a Unified Command Team (UCT), chaired by Jewel Mullen, Commissioner of the Department of Public Health (DPH), to serve as point in the state's ongoing emergency management efforts. The team will be responsible for the coordination of resources and personnel and provide a single point of contact for communication with the public. They will also be responsible for certifying that front line personnel at both acute care and community health care facilities and first responders have received the necessary training to deal with a potential case effectively and safely.
"We have been taking this situation very seriously for weeks," said Governor Malloy. "Over that period of time, we have been working with health officials to prepare for a potential case here in Connecticut, and I am today formalizing that effort with the establishment of a Unified Command Team. While we don't yet know if there is a confirmed case of Ebola in our state, the report that a Yale student has exhibited symptoms demonstrates why preemptive action is the right approach. I believe we must go above and beyond what the CDC is recommending, just as we did last week when I issued a preemptive declaration. I want everyone to know - from the nurses in our emergency rooms to our first responders and our law enforcement personnel - we will provide whatever resources we have at our disposal so that you can do your critically important jobs safely and effectively."
The UCT will be composed of officials from the Governor's Office, the Department of Public Health, the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, the State Department of Education, the State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the State Department of Administrative Services and the Department of Corrections.
Governor Malloy said that for several weeks, the state has been communicating with Connecticut hospitals and other health care providers providing them with the most up to date information and guidance from federal health authorities.
Last week, Governor Malloy issued an order declaring a public health emergency as a precautionary matter. The order gives the Commissioner of the Public Health Department the authority to quarantine and isolate an individual or a group of individuals whom they reasonably believe has been exposed to the Ebola virus or infected with the Ebola virus. The order was executed as a precautionary and preparatory measure in the event that the state has either a confirmed infection or has confirmed that someone at risk of developing the infection is residing in the state.
Earlier this month, Commissioner Mullen asked each hospital to complete a detailed hospital checklist for Ebola preparedness. During the Unified Command briefing, Commissioner Mullen said that all acute care hospitals had completed and returned the checklist. She said DPH also held a conference call with hospital representatives this week to review their preparedness efforts.
"Connecticut hospitals clearly have a heightened level of awareness for detecting a patient with Ebola, given the level of cooperation we have received in preparing for a possible case," said Dr. Mullen. "The survey shows that every hospital is engaged in planning and preparedness around Ebola. Critical to preventing an Ebola outbreak in the United States is that all hospitals are able to recognize when a patient may be at risk for Ebola and take the appropriate steps. We continue to work with hospitals to ensure they can detect a patient with Ebola, protect health care workers so they can safely care for the patient, and respond in a coordinated fashion with their healthcare system."
United Way 211 is providing information and links on its website at www.211ct.org , or you can call 2-1-1.
Today, the Governor and the Commissioner are issuing the following guidance, which is more stringent than the guidelines thus far issued by the Federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): If you become sick with a fever a fever with and/or any of the symptoms of Ebola virus disease such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and you: o Have traveled to Liberia, Sierra Leone, or Guinea in the last 21 days, or o Have had contact with a person who has Ebola virus disease.
You will be sent to a hospital for evaluation and placed in room separate from other patients - this is called isolation.
If you are not sick, but have traveled to affected areas or been in contact with an infected individual, you will be required to stay at home for 21 days and take your temperature twice a day. Public heath health workers will contact you twice a day by phone to see how you are doing. This is called quarantine. If you develop a fever or other symptoms suggestive of Ebola virus during the time that you are required to be home, you will be sent to a hospital for evaluation and placed in room separate from other patients.
"The first responder community continues to monitor the current situation and prepare for any potential threat to public safety or health using their established protocols," said Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora B. Schriro. "We are at the ready to assist and support our local partners in this critical state-wide effort."
According to the CDC: o You can't get Ebola though air o You can't get Ebola through water o You can't get Ebola through food.
You can only get Ebola from: o Touching the blood or body fluids of a person who is sick or has died from Ebola o Touching contaminated objects, like needles o Touching infected animals, their blood or other body fluids or their meat.
###
For Immediate Release: October 16, 2014
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
16 de Octubre de 2014
GOBERNADOR MALLOY DETALLA ESFUERZOS ESTATALES CONTRA AMENAZA DE ÉBOLA
Anuncia que la Comisionada Mullen ha solicitado al Departamento de Salud Pública y a las autoridades que manejan asuntos de cuarentena y aislamiento todos los Recursos y Personal Necesario para lidiar con una potencial exposición o infección de Ébola
(HARTFORD, CT) - El Gobernador Dannel P. Malloy anunció hoy que el Estado de Connecticut está tomando pasos adicionales para fortalecer el nivel de preparación para enfrentar el virus de Ébola activando los protocolos de cuarentena y aislamiento que fueron autorizados bajo la orden que él ejecutó la semana pasada. Además, el Gobernador está ordenando a cada hospital en el Estado, realizar un simulacro en la próxima semana, para asegurarse que los procedimientos y los Servicios Médicos de Emergencia están funcionando como se debe.
Mientras las conversaciones a nivel gubernamental y de hospitales estatales han continuado por meses, el Gobernador anunció hoy que se ha creado un Equipo de Comando Unificado (Unified Command Team), encabezado por Jewel Mullen, Comisionada del Departamento de Salud Pública (DPH), para que sirva como punto de contacto en todos estos esfuerzos de emergencia ante la situación. Este Equipo será responsable de toda la coordinación de los recursos y el personal, siendo el punto de contacto para toda comunicación con el público. Ellos también serán responsables de certificar que el personal listo para enfrentar las emergencias, son profesionales de salud certificados y que los primeros auxiliadores han recibido todo el entrenamiento necesario para lidiar con un caso sospechoso, de la forma mas efectiva y segura posible.
"Hemos abordado esta situación seriamente por semanas," dijo el Gobernador Malloy. "En este tiempo, hemos trabajado con oficiales de salud para prepararnos ante la presencia de un caso potencial aquí en Connecticut, y hoy formalizo este esfuerzo con la creación y establecimiento de este Equipo de Comando Unificado. Aunque no tenemos todavía un caso confirmado de Ébola en nuestro estado, un estudiante de Yale experimentó ciertos síntomas. El reporte médico indica que los resultados de ébola son negativos y estas son buenas noticias. No obstante, el estudiante seguirá en constante evaluación. Debemos seguir en alerta con acciones preventivas ya que es la mejor forma de enfrentar la amenaza. Creo que debemos avanzar más de lo que CDC está recomendando, así como hicimos la semana pasada cuando ejecutamos una declaración preventiva. Quiero que todos sepan - desde los enfermeros/as en nuestras salas de emergencia hasta nuestros primeros auxiliadores y nuestro personal de ejecución de la ley- que usaremos todos los recursos necesarios para que ustedes puedan realizar sus trabajos de la forma mas segura y efectiva posible."
The UCT (Equipo de Comando Unificado) se compondrá de miembros de la Oficina del Gobernador, el Departamento de Salud Pública, el Departamento de Servicios de Emergencia y Protección Pública, el Departamento de Educación, El Departamento de Energía y Protección Ambiental, El Departamento Estatal de Servicios Administrativos y el Departamento de Correcciones.
El Gobernador Malloy lo ha dicho varias semanas, que el estado está en comunicación constante con los hospitales de Connecticut y otros proveedores de servicio de salud proveyéndoles la más actualizada información y guía por parte de las autoridades federales de salud.
La semana pasada, el Gobernador emitió una orden declarando emergencia pública como una medida de precaución. Esta orden le dió a la Comisionada de Salud Pública, la autoridad de poner en cuarentena o aislamiento a todo individuo o grupo de individuos de los que se crea que han sido expuestos el virus del Ébola o que estén infectados con el virus. La orden fue ejecutada como medida preventiva en el caso que el estado confirme una infección o que haya alguien que alguien que esté en riesgo de desarrollar la infección resida en el estado.
A inicios del mes, la Comisionada Mullen pidió a cada hospital que complete una lista detallada de acciones de preparación contra el Ébola. Durante el reporte del Equipo de Comando Unificado, la Comisionada Mullen dijo que todos los hospitales de atención crítica han completado y presentado sus listas. También dijo que DPH realizó una conferencia de prensa con representantes del hospital para revisar sus esfuerzos de preparación.
"Los hospitales de Connecticut han demostrado un alto nivel de preparación para detectar pacientes con ébola, proveyendo la cooperación necesaria," dijo Dr. Mullen. "El cuestionario muestra que cada hospital está comprometido en la preparación ante el virus. Es crítico prevenir un brote de ébola en los Estados Unidos y por eso todos los hospitales deben estar listos para reconocer cuando un paciente está en riesgo del ébola y tomar las pasos necesarios. Continuaremos trabajando con los hospitales para asegurarnos que pueden detectar un paciente con ébola, proteger a nuestros trabajadores de salud para que ellos puedan tratar al paciente y responder en forma coordinado ante todo el sistema de salud."
United Way 211 está proveyendo información con enlaces en su website www.211ct.org , o usted puede llamar al 2-1-1.
Hoy, el Gobernador y la Comisionada publicaron la siguiente guía, que es más estricta que la que publicó el Centro Federal de Control de Enfermedades y Prevención (CDC): Si usted comienza a enfermarse con fiebre o tiene síntomas como náusea, vómito, diarrea y si usted:
• Ha viajado a Liberia, Sierra Leona, o Guinea en los últimos 21 días, o • Ha tenido contacto con una persona que tiene el virus del ébola.
Usted será enviado a un hospital para evaluación y puesto en un cuarto separado de otros pacientes - eso se llama aislamiento.
Si usted no está enfermo, pero ha viajado a áreas afectadas o ha estado en contacto con alguien infectado, deberá reportar su caso y se quedará en casa por 21 días, tomándole la temperatura dos veces al día. Personal de Salud Pública lo contactarán dos veces al día por teléfono para ver como se encuentra. Esto se llama cuarentena. Si usted desarrolla fiebre u otros síntomas relacionados al ébola durante el tiempo que se queda en casa, será mandado al hospital para una evaluación y en un cuarto separado de otros pacientes.
"Seguimos monitoreando la situación, preparados para cualquier amenaza potencial a la salud pública y siguiendo los protocolos establecidos," dijo Dora B. Schriro, Comisionada del Departamento de Servicios de Emergencia y Protección Pública. "Estamos listos para asistir y apoyar a nuestros socios locales en este esfuerzo vital a nivel de todo el estado."
De acuerdo al DCD:
• Usted no puede contraer Ébola a través del aire • Usted no puede contraer Ébola a través del agua • Usted no puede contraer Ébola a través de alimentos
Usted contraerá Ébola solo por:
• Tocar la sangre o fluidos corporales de una persona que está enferma o ha muerto por ébola • Tocar objetos contaminados, como agujas/jeringas • Tocar animales infectados, su sangre u otros fluidos corporales a la carne de los mismos
###
For Immediate Release: 16 de Octubre de 2014 Contacto: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 16, 2014
GOV. MALLOY STATEMENT ON PRELIMINARY EBOLA TEST RESULTS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today released the following statement in response to preliminary negative test results from the Massachusetts State Public Health laboratory on the patient being treated for Ebola-like symptoms at Yale- New Haven Hospital.
"Certainly this is encouraging news," said Governor Malloy. "While the initial test results are negative, Dr. Mullen has made the determination that it is in the best interest for residents in New Haven and the surrounding area that the patient remain isolated as we await official test results from the CDC."
Earlier today, Governor Malloy outlined the state's efforts to safeguard against the spread of Ebola. The Governor has also directed every hospital in the state, in coordination with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, to perform a drill within the next week to assure that procedures are up to standard.
In addition, Governor Malloy today also announced that he is convening a Unified Command Team (UCT) to be chaired by Department of Public Health (DPH) Commissioner Jewel Mullen. The UCT will serve as point in the state's ongoing emergency management efforts.
Governor Malloy added, "We will continue to monitor the current situation and provide whatever resources we have at our disposal to ensure that everyone - from the nurses in our emergency rooms to our first responders and our law enforcement personnel - has the ability to do their critically important jobs safely and effectively."
Residents with concerns are encouraged to call United Way 211, which is providing information and links on its website at www.211ct.org , or call 2-1-1.
###
For Immediate Release: October 16, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell)
Contact: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 17, 2014
GOV. MALLOY STATEMENT ON GUILTY PLEA OF MAN WHO VIOLATED 2013 ASSAULT WEAPON BAN
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy released the following statement regarding today's conviction of a University of New Haven student who pleaded guilty to importing a banned assault weapon and possession of two pistols while on campus in December 2013:
"Today's guilty plea brings an end to a potential tragedy that was prevented due to Connecticut's new gun safety laws.
"This individual imported a newly banned assault weapon into the state in violation of the new law. His weapon was a Bushmaster AR-15. His home and personal belongings contained news clippings on mass shootings - the 2012 Aurora, Colorado theatre shooting in particular.
"Without the assistance of a citizen who saw something and said something, without the restrictions in the new gun law, and without the quick action of first responders at the University of New Haven and at the West Haven Police Department, December 3, 2013 might have been another tragic day in Connecticut's history. I congratulate the State's Attorney's Office in the Judicial District of Ansonia and Milford for a job well done."
###
For Immediate Release: October 17, 2014
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 17, 2014
SATURDAY: GOV. MALLOY - LT. GOV. WYMAN MARCH IN WEST HARTFORD'S PARK ROAD PARADE
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Saturday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman will march in West Hartford's 17th annual Park Road Parade. The parade celebrates the diversity of the neighborhood's people, businesses and culture.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Lt. Governor Wyman WHAT : Governor Malloy and Lt. Governor Wyman march in West Hartford's Park Road Parade WHEN : Saturday, October 18, 2014; 10:30 a.m. WHERE : Parade begins at corner of Park Road and Ringgold Street, West Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 17, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 20, 2014
TODAY AT 12:45PM: GOV. MALLOY VISITS SMALL BUSINESS IN NORTH BRANFORD
(HARTFORD, CT) - Today at 12:45pm, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will visit Penn Globe, a company that received a small business express loan in 2012 and has since expanded. The Governor will also discuss the monthly jobs report, which will be released today at 11:00 a.m.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy tours Penn Globe, a small business in North Branford WHEN : TODAY - Monday, October 20, 2014; 12:45 p.m. WHERE : 300 Shaw Rd, North Branford
###
For Immediate Release: October 20, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 20, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: STATE'S JOB GAINS SHOW PROGRESS; MORE WORK TO DO
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today released the following statement on the Department of Labor's monthly Labor Situation Report. The report shows that job totals are at a recovery high, while unemployment among residents is at a recovery low. The state added more than 10,000 private sector jobs in September and the unemployment rate now stands at 6.4% - the lowest point since November 2008.
"Today's jobs report is another sign that we are making steady progress in improving our state's economy. With the addition of these jobs, we've added nearly 70,000 private sector jobs since January of 2011. That's one of the best periods for private sector job growth since the 1990s. And when you look at annual job growth on a monthly basis, what you see is that the state has gained jobs every single month.
"There is still much more that must be done so that our state is better prepared to continue this progress in the future. I've said it before and I'll say it again - we can't be satisfied until everyone in our state who wants a job has one."
###
For Immediate Release: October 20, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 20, 2014
GOV. MALLOY COMMENDS PURA ON GETTING A $30M REFUND FOR CONN. RATEPAYERS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today issued the following statement concerning an action initiative by the state's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) which resulted in a $30 million rebate to electric ratepayers from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
"This is very good news for Connecticut electric customers - and demonstrates the state's commitment to ensuring ratepayers are treated fairly. Thanks to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's careful scrutiny of charges, our families, seniors and businesses will see a refund and will not be burdened with additional costs that drive up electric bills."
###
For Immediate Release: October 20, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 21, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES STATE GRANTS TO IMPROVE REGIONAL EFFICIENCY AND HELP MUNICIPALITIES CUT COSTS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that seven grants totaling $1.25 million are being awarded to regional planning councils and their municipalities under the state's Regional Performance Incentive Program with the goal of improving regional efficiency and helping municipalities cut costs.
The program, administered by the Office of Policy and Management, provides grants to regional councils of governments, economic development districts or groups of two or more municipalities that coordinate functions and services on a regional basis.
"Regional cooperation makes government more efficient, lowers costs and ultimately saves taxpayer dollars," Governor Malloy said. "The communities involved have come together to coordinate and plan efforts that will benefit their communities without driving up property taxes. These are examples of collaborations that provide local services to meet the needs of residents in a smarter, more efficient and less expensive way."
The grants awarded are:
Capitol Region Council of Governments - Regional Data Center ($282,400) Funds will be used to purchase and install the necessary equipment (e.g., servers, storage, etc.) for demonstration projects provided in Section 229 of Public Act 14-217, consisting initially of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP), Streaming Video and Network Hosting Services.
Northeastern CT Council of Governments - Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Enhancement Study ($81,750) This study will provide a comprehensive analysis of the 16-town region's current pre-hospital emergency care system and an evaluation of alternatives to the current delivery system and other possible enhancements to patient care.
Northeastern CT Council of Governments - Regional Cat Trap/Neuter/Release Program ($174,895) Implementation of this program will help control the number of feral and roaming domestic cats.
Northwest Hills Council of Governments - Regional Economic Development Services ($249,000) Funds will provide for a shared economic development consultant over a two-year period to implement village center vitality initiatives in eight small Northwest Connecticut towns-Canaan, Cornwall, Goshen, Kent, North Canaan, Norfolk, Salisbury, and Sharon. Such initiatives will focus on supporting existing businesses, creating jobs and filling vacant commercial spaces.
Northwest Hills Council of Governments - Cooperative Purchase of Mobile Material Screeners ($275,000) Funds will be used to purchase two mobile material screeners for cooperative use by any of the region's 20-towns, so local public works departments can more efficiently process, store, dispose, or re-use earth materials collected from road maintenance scrapings, street weeping, ditching work, sand and gravel processing, millings and roadside shoulder work. Proceeds from equipment rental fees will be used to establish a maintenance, administration and capital replacement fund.
Scotland, Hampton - Chaplin - Regional School System Study ($36,750) A regional school system analysis will be conducted to determine the extent to which shared purchasing, staffing, transportation and facility utilization can lead to improvements in efficiency, quality of education, and cost reductions.
Southeastern CT Council of Governments - Study and Plan for Regional Shared Services ($150,000) This study would examine the current activities of the region's 19 towns, develop a comprehensive plan and model for regional shared services, staff and equipment, and identify potential cost savings that could result from implementing the plan.
###
For Immediate Release: October 21, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 22, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES FUNDS TO SUPPORT AFFORDABLE HOUSING THROUGHOUT THE STATE
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Department of Housing (DOH) Commissioner Evonne M. Klein, and Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) President and Executive Director Eric Chatman today announced investments of over $25 million in six affordable housing projects selected under the Competitive Housing Assistance for Multifamily Properties (CHAMP) initiative. The plans will build and rehabilitate over 500 affordable apartments.
"In this year alone, we've made more than $100 million available to help municipalities address one of their most pressing needs - the lack of affordable housing options in their communities," said Governor Malloy. "We are doing more to support local efforts to create and rehabilitate affordable housing, which will revitalize neighborhoods and strengthen entire communities. And when we do this across the state, we are enhancing the quality of life for all in Connecticut. At the same time, these projects will bring in over $22 million in federal tax credit equity through the 4% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program administered by CHFA."
The projects announced today competed successfully in the fifth round of the CHAMP initiative. Investments include over $25 million in state capital funding, $22.5 million in federal 4% LIHTC credits and $3.9 million in CHFA tax exempt bond financing. CHAMP is administered by DOH and helps owners and developers of multifamily rental developments to expand or rehabilitate affordable and supportive housing.
"The investments the Governor is announcing today will leverage nearly three times the amount of CHAMP funding. The total development cost of the projects, with the majority coming from private investment, is expected to be over $100 million," said Commissioner Klein, who is also chair of CHFA's Board of Directors. "It is through these creative partnerships and financing structures that we are finding new ways to extend our public assets and increase the impact of our housing programs."
CHFA administers the 4% LIHTC program, which is a federal tax incentive program designed to stimulate private investment in affordable housing. Under the program, developers can obtain equity financing to acquire, rehabilitate and/or construct new low- or moderate-income housing through the allocation of federal tax credits that may be sold to corporations or investor groups.
"The LIHTC program is a catalyst for affordable housing and an important source of gap funding for developers," said Chatman.
The list of recipients is as follows:
Bridgeport - Crescent Crossing DOH will provide up to $5 million in CHAMP funds to assist in the construction of 93 new units of affordable housing. The project is within walking distance to bus routes, grocery stores, a school, a proposed train station, and other retail/commercial activities. The 93 units will be contained in 6 buildings with a unit mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units. DOH funding will leverage nearly $7 million in Federal Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds and over $20 million in other non-CHAMP funds. Crescent Crossing is the first phase of the replacement of Marina Village, which was heavily damaged by Super Storm Sandy and prior storms.
Deep River - Kirtland Commons DOH will provide up to $4.2 million in funding to assist in the redevelopment of this affordable elderly housing development. The funding will allow the Deep River Housing Authority to upgrade the existing 26-unit complex to current building and housing codes while also assisting in the development of 18 new units. This combination of rehabilitation and the creation of new units will make this development economically sustainable. Kirtland Commons is on Route 154 in close proximity to all town services, has regular bus service, and is close to Route 9.
Hartford - Billings Forge Apartments DOH will provide up to $5 million and CHFA will provide $2,575,000 in tax exempt bond financing and $4.4 million in 4% LIHTC net proceeds to assist in the rehabilitation of Billings Forge, a 112-unit affordable housing development located in several buildings near the state capitol in the historic Frog Hollow district. The primary structure was constructed in 1864 as a manufacturing tool plant and converted to residential use in 1980. The property also acts as a host to an array of activities, including a farmer's market, a community garden, and the Firebox Restaurant, which serves the surrounding neighborhood and local office workers as well as the development's tenants. DOH's funding will leverage an additional $6.3 million in non-state funds.
Meriden - 122 Charles Street DOH will provide funding of up to $3,590,049 and CHFA will provide approximately $1,341,299 in tax exempt bond financing and $3.4 million in 4% LIHTC net proceeds to assist in the rehabilitation of this property. The current 4.38-acre site has four attached historic mill buildings as well a stand-alone pump house building currently used as a community center for the residents. The unit mix at 122 Charles Street will include units at 25%, 50% and 60% of the area median income. Two units will be targeted for homeless veterans with supportive services being provided by the Veterans Administration of West Haven. This funding will leverage approximately $4 million in non-state funds.
Putnam - Cargill Falls Mill DOH will provide a loan of up to $5 million to assist in the redevelopment of the historic Cargill Falls Mill complex of 14 buildings. The ground floors of this mill complex will be dedicated to commercial use while the upper floors will be developed into residential units. The mill is part of the fabric of Putnam and reported to be both the oldest surviving cotton mill in Connecticut and the oldest mill site in the United States. The project will include a mix of market rate and affordable residential apartment units in a community setting adjacent to compatible clusters of office, retail, service and restaurant workplaces on a six-acre site with more than a quarter mile of frontage on the Quinebaug River. The property is within walking distance of the downtown and its shops, restaurants, a grocery store, municipal offices, and other amenities such as recreation, medical care, transportation and employment. When completed, Cargill Falls Mill will consist of 82 rental units, 30 of which are affordable. Both residential and commercial tenants will enjoy significantly reduced electricity costs from the one megawatt hydroelectric dam and cogeneration facility also being developed at the property. This funding will leverage approximately $15 million in non-state funds.
Torrington - Northside Terraces Apartments DOH will provide up to $3 million for the rehabilitation of Northside Terraces, a family housing development. Northside Terraces has 91 units in six buildings originally constructed in 1968. The unit mix consists of 12 one-bedroom, 59 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom apartments. The units will continue to serve low and moderate income families with incomes ranging from 25% to 60% of the area median income. Northside Terraces is less than 1.5 miles from Torrington's downtown with immediate access to large employers and downtown shops. It abuts the Torrington High School and is served by public transportation and shopping on nearby Winsted Road. Among the critical improvements, the project will include the creation of 10 new accessible units. This funding will leverage approximately $6.8 million in non-state funds.
###
For Immediate Release: October 22, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 22, 2014
GOV. MALLOY'S SANDY HOOK ADVISORY COMMISSION TO MEET FRIDAY
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy's Sandy Hook Advisory Commission is next scheduled to meet on Friday, October 24 , at 10:00 a.m. in hearing room 1B of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.
The group will receive presentation from parents of two victims of the tragedy, including Neil Heslin (father of Jesse McCord Lewis) and Nelba Marquez-Greene (mother of Ana Marquez-Greene).
The Sandy Hook Advisory Commission is Governor Malloy's 16-member panel of experts tasked with reviewing current policies and making specific recommendations in the areas of public safety, with particular attention paid to school safety, mental health, and gun violence prevention. Information on the group, including details on how to contact its members and documents from each of their meetings, can be found online at www.ct.gov/SHAC .
** Download : Sandy Hook Advisory Commission meeting agenda for October 24, 2014
###
For Immediate Release: October 22, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 22, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: STATE LAUNCHES EBOLA INFORMATION WEBSITE Residents Can Visit www.ct.gov/ebola for Useful Facts
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that the State of Connecticut has launched a website to keep residents informed regarding the Ebola virus. There will also be a hyperlink to www.ct.gov/ebola on the homepages of all state agencies.
"Many residents have questions and concerns. For that reason, we felt it was important to create a localized site where information will be updated on an ongoing basis," said Governor Malloy. "While there are no cases of Ebola in Connecticut, we are taking safety measures to prevent the spread of this virus should someone in our state become sick with Ebola. Our health officials and Unified Command Team have been meeting to prepare for a potential case here in Connecticut."
"While a widespread outbreak of Ebola in our country remains unlikely, we still want residents to have information they need to understand how Connecticut is preparing," said Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen. "This site provides people with access to timely and accurate information about Ebola and the work the state and its partners are doing to protect Connecticut."
The site provides risk information about Ebola virus infection, a map of the West African countries affected by Ebola, and information about actions the state of Connecticut is taking to prevent the spread of the virus should someone in Connecticut become sick with Ebola. The site provides links to additional resources and information from the CDC and other partners.
The site also includes resources for health care providers, including new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the use of personal protective equipment by health care personnel.
Over the past several weeks, Governor Malloy has taken several preventive measures to help prevent the spread of Ebola in Connecticut. o The Governor signed an executive order to grant authority to Public Health Commissioner Jewel Mullen to quarantine an individual or group of individuals who have or may have been exposed to the disease. o Department of Public Health is ensuring hospital and health system readiness to detect, protect and treat patients infected with Ebola. o Governor Malloy convened a Unified Command Team (UCT) to ensure statewide coordination in the ongoing emergency management efforts and to provide clear communication to the public. o Most recently, the UCT is in the process of conducting a review of municipal and state agency inventories of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The United Way's 211 is also a resource equipped to handle inquiries concerning Ebola on its website at www.211ct.org , or by calling 2-1-1. ### For Immediate Release: October 22, 2014
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 22, 2014
THURSDAY: GOV. MALLOY HIGHLIGHTS STATE INVESTMENT IN WEST HAVEN TO REDEVELOP COMMERCIAL SITE
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Thursday at noon, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will visit West Haven to highlight an investment by the state that will remediate a commercial site on the town's waterfront and redevelop the property as a destination retail center. He will be joined by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, Mayor Ed O'Brien, and state lawmakers.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Congresswoman DeLauro, Mayor O'Brien, state lawmakers WHAT : Governor Malloy highlights state investment in West Haven to remediate commercial site WHEN : Thursday, October 23, 2014; 12:00 p.m. WHERE : 105 Water Street, West Haven
###
For Immediate Release: October 22, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 23, 2014
TODAY AT 1:15PM: GOV. MALLOY MAKES MAJOR JOB GROWTH ANNOUNCEMENT IN BRANFORD
(HARTFORD, CT) - Today at 1:15 p.m., Governor Dannel P. Malloy will join representatives from a private employer in Branford for a news conference to announce that company's plans to expand and add nearly 150 new, high-quality jobs in Connecticut.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy makes major job growth announcement WHEN : TODAY - Thursday, October 23, 2014; 1:15 p.m. WHERE : Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; 1 Commercial Street, Branford
###
For Immediate Release: October 23, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 23, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: CONNECTICUT INVESTMENT IN BIOSCIENCE CONTINUES TO PAY DIVIDENDS Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Launching New State-of-the-Art Genomics Research Center in Branford, Will Create 142 Jobs
(BRANFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that a new, state-of-the art genomics research facility is being established in Branford by the renowned Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Mount Sinai, a leader in biomedical research, medical and scientific training and patient care, is expanding into Connecticut and anticipates creating 142 new full time jobs over the next five years.
"We are investing in industry leaders like the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai so that Connecticut can continue to compete and win in the 21st Century economy," said Governor Malloy. "Beyond the economic growth and good paying jobs with good benefits that the field of bioscience generates, advancements in the research, development and discovery of cutting- edge new personalized medicine offers hope to people with serious illnesses and means a better quality of life for people around the world. We are proud of the bioscience cluster we are building with top institutions leading the way and conducting this important work right here in Connecticut."
As part of the State of Connecticut's strategic economic development plan, the Malloy administration is targeting the bioscience industry in order to position Connecticut as a global destination for the research, development and commercialization of leading scientific work that will improve health and wellbeing.
"Our new state-of-the-art genomics facility in Branford enables us to rapidly run high throughput, DNA sequencing of large volumes of patient samples, and will leverage the multimillion dollar investment made by Mount Sinai to advance the new era of genomic medicine. With this extraordinary new capability, we expect to rapidly advance our translational research findings and development of new clinical tests in major disease areas such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's," said Eric Schadt, Ph.D., the Jean C. and James W. Crystal Professor of Genomics at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Founding Director of the Icahn Institute for Genomics and Multiscale Biology. "Connecticut offers an incredible talent pool of biomedical expertise and leading institutions such as Yale, UConn Health, and Jackson Labs that we hope to form significant collaborations with. We thank Governor Malloy and the Connecticut DECD for their phenomenal support and partnership to help accelerate our growth."
The state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is providing a $9.5 million low-interest loan in support of the project, which will include the new 16,500 square foot laboratory in Branford. If Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai achieves the job creation milestones set for the project, the loan provides forgiveness provisions of up to $7.25 million.
"I appreciate the commitment that Governor Malloy is making to Branford and to the needs of our local taxpayers," said Branford First Selectman James B. Cosgrove. "Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is an important new employer in our Town and this funding commitment by the State is key to their ability to expand jobs here."
"This is a significant step in building the biosciences, not only here in this region but throughout the state -- that is a part of our economic future," said State Senator Ed Meyer (D-12).
"We enthusiastically welcome the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai to Branford! This new biomedical research facility strengthens Connecticut's standing as a center of genomics research and complements the other strategic investments we have made in medical research," said State Rep. Patricia Widlitz (D-98). "DNA sequencing is the key to advancing personalized medicine and future cures for so many devastating diseases. Congratulations to Governor Malloy and the DECD team for bringing this world renowned facility to the shoreline!"
"The genomics research facility being built in Branford by the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai provides further proof that Connecticut is the place to be for bioscience innovation," said State Rep. Lonnie Reed (D-102). "Our state is quickly achieving the kind of critical mass needed to attract more complimentary companies, grow more jobs and save more lives. I applaud Governor Malloy for all he has done to recruit and incentivize this sector. Connecticut has what it takes to be a national and international hub for bioscience and technology and I could not be happier that Branford is playing such an important role."
"The addition of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai facility in the state is another big win in our long range plan to strengthen and expand our bioscience sector," said DECD Commissioner Catherine Smith. "We are creating a critical mass of industry leaders in the state - great organizations like Yale, UConn Health, Jackson Labs and now, Mount Sinai. The interplay between these important and growing industry players will help create a robust ecosystem that will help drive Connecticut's economy for decades to come."
Genomic research is transforming the field of medicine from an approach that applies broad definitions based on collections of observed symptoms and clinical findings to one that harnesses sophisticated predictive models of disease built with specific genetic and molecular information measured in individual patients. Genomic Medicine is a new approach to improve healthcare by analyzing massive data arrays obtained from genetic sequencing of individual DNA, RNA, blood, tumor, and other samples - using specialized supercomputers and cutting edge algorithms. This wealth of information can define a patient's condition with unprecedented precision and enable unique treatments tailored to each patient's situation. Such unique treatments designed for specific patients increase efficacy, reduce side effects and unintended outcomes, and enable individuals - in consultation with their personal physician - to take steps to mitigate or avoid illness and maximize quality of life.
Founded in 1963 in New York City, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is now a world leader in driving the new era of Genomic Medicine to better diagnose, treat, and prevent disease. Mount Sinai's existing Genetic Testing Laboratory in New York grew by 150 percent from 2010 to 2013, setting the stage for this much needed expansion in Connecticut.
###
For Immediate Release: October 23, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 23, 2014
FRIDAY: GOV. MALLOY SPEAKS AT HARTFORD COURANT'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Friday evening, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will speak at an event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Hartford Courant - the country's oldest newspaper in continuous publication.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at Hartford Courant's 250th anniversary celebration WHEN : Friday, October 24, 2014; Event begins at 6:00 p.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 8:45 p.m. WHERE : The Bushnell; 166 Capitol Avenue, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 23, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 24, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES THREE NEW TRAIN STATIONS AS PART OF NHHS RAIL PROGRAM New Haven-Hartford-Springfield (NHHS) Rail Program Logo Unveiled, Contract Awarded for Rebuilding of Three Stations Along NHHS
Click to enlarge
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (ConnDOT) today announced the start of construction for new train stations in Wallingford, Meriden and Berlin as part of the New Haven- Hartford-Springfield (NHHS) Rail Program. Governor Malloy also unveiled the logo for the new commuter service, which will be branded the "Hartford Line," and will be prominently displayed at all Hartford Line stations and in marketing materials.
"This is a major milestone for NHHS as it enters the construction phase at stations in Wallingford, Meriden and Berlin," said Governor Malloy. "The NHHS Rail Program will not only offer more frequent, convenient and faster passenger rail service, but it will also cultivate significant benefits to communities along the rail line, including local economic and transit-oriented development activities at and around these stations, with the ultimate goal of increasing municipal revenue, creating jobs and improving the quality of life for residents and increasing our competitiveness as a state."
Station construction in Wallingford, Meriden and Berlin is scheduled to begin this fall and will be completed by the launch of enhanced rail service in late 2016. Improvements at these stations include high-level platforms (both sides of the track), overhead pedestrian bridge with new elevators and stair towers on both sides of the track to connect the two platforms, platform snow melt systems, electric vehicle charging stations, ticket vending machines and passenger information display systems, PA and high-resolution video surveillance systems, increased parking capacity and roadway access improvements, improved accessibility for the mobility impaired/ADA compliant and bicycle racks.
"The renovation and expansion of Berlin's train station will greatly help to revitalize the downtown area," said House Majority Leader Joe Aresimowicz (D-30). "I'm pleased to serve with a Governor who understands the need for economic development to reenergize our aging downtowns throughout the state."
"A new train station is a vital piece of our community's ongoing downtown revitalization," said State Senator Danté Bartolomeo (D-13). "Improving rail access to New Haven, Hartford, and Springfield will help draw commuters and their families to Meriden, helping to attract local businesses. I am enthusiastic about how this new station will play into the many exciting changes that I and the rest of Meriden's legislative delegation have worked to bring about and am hopeful that we still have some time to address the issue of bathroom facilities."
"I thank Governor Malloy for his support of this construction project that will ease the burden on our overcrowded highways," said State Rep. Emil Altobello (D-82). "Providing crucial transportation alternatives is key to the revitalization of these municipalities."
"This investment in providing additional transportation options is welcomed with open arms," said State Rep. Cathy Abercrombie (D-83). "This project will have a positive impact on decreasing congestion on our roads and easing the daily drive for commuters."
"We have been waiting for construction to get started and are extremely excited to see it underway," said State Rep. Hilda Santiago (D-84). "Not only will it help to generate jobs and economic development, but it will help reduce the carbon footprint of vehicles on our state's highways."
"This is a major investment in the economic future of towns in our area," said State Rep. Mary Mushinsky (D-85). "I thank Governor Malloy for his steadfast support of commuter rail service, which will revitalize the heart of Wallingford."
"I look forward to the upcoming improvements at the Wallingford train station and hope this revitalization creates a better opportunity for locals to travel and draws visitors to our downtown area - supporting our local small businesses," said State Rep. Vincent Candelora (R-86).
Funded through the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act (PRIIA) and State of Connecticut bonds proceeds, the NHHS Rail Program will provide significant new regional passenger rail service options as a key component of a robust and vibrant multi-modal regional transportation system. The station construction contract was awarded to Judlau Construction of New York at a value of $58.8 million.
"Today's good news about the contract award, coupled with unveiling of the Hartford Line brand, solidifies our State's commitment to expanding state and regional passenger rail service," said ConnDOT Commissioner James Redeker. "Once the new Hartford Line service is launched, the frequency of weekday round trip trains will increase from 6 to 17 trains between New Haven and Hartford with up to 12 trains continuing north to Springfield, Massachusetts. This will greatly enhance travel options between these communities and will serve as the backbone for regional rail service within and beyond New England."
Scheduled to launch in late 2016, the enhanced rail service between New Haven and Springfield, with portions of the line from New Haven to Windsor, will be double tracked, and will provide faster, frequent and more reliable passenger service both locally and regionally.
For more information about the NHHS program, visit www.nhhsrail.com , connect via Facebook at www.facebook.com/NHHSrail , or via Twitter at @ NHHSrail .
###
For Immediate Release: October 24, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 24, 2014
GOV. MALLOY APPOINTS DAVID R. JIMENEZ TO THE BOARD OF REGENTS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that he is appointing David R. Jimenez of West Simsbury to serve as a member of the state Board of Regents for Higher Education.
"David Jimenez will bring to the Board of Regents his years of professional experience and expertise working with and advising some of the top corporations in our country and in Connecticut," Governor Malloy said. "I look forward to having him serve on the board as they continue their mission of connecting our higher education system with important economic sectors to ensure that our students are prepared with a competitive edge in the global workforce."
"I am looking forward to working with the Board of Regents on its critically important work with Connecticut's universities and colleges, as well as the students served by these important institutions," Jimenez said. "I'm also very grateful to the Governor for the honor and privilege of being able to serve the State of Connecticut in this capacity."
Jimenez is a shareholder in the Hartford office of the national law firm Jackson Lewis P.C., and is co-chair of the firm's Corporate Governance and Internal Investigations Practice Group. He represents publicly traded companies and privately held organizations on corporate governance matters, including organizational compliance and employee whistleblower matters. He also advises business clients on the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and international anti-bribery matters.
Prior to joining Jackson Lewis, Jimenez was the Vice President of Employee Relations and Associate General Counsel of The Hartford insurance company. In that role, he served as the company's top lawyer for all employment law matters worldwide and also served as the senior human resources leader for internal employee relations matters across the organization.
He is a member of the Connecticut, Massachusetts and Texas Bars. He also is a former member of the American Leadership Forum as well as a former Barrister of the Inns of Court. He recently completed a two-year appointment as liaison to the American Bar Association's national Commission of Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession.
In addition to his professional work, Jimenez serves on The Hartford Stage Company's Board of Directors, where he chairs the governance and nominating committee of the board and also serves as the corporate secretary. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Mark Twain House and Museum, and he is a past president of the Hartford County Bar Foundation.
Jimenez received his law degree from Hofstra University School of Law, and his bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Texas.
###
For Immediate Release: October 24, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 24, 2014
CONNECTICUT HOSPITALS CARRY OUT GOVERNOR MALLOY'S DIRECTIVE TO HOLD EBOLA DRILLS State Issues Guidance to First Responders to Help Them Limit Exposure
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that all Connecticut acute care hospitals have conducted an Ebola preparedness drill per his directive last week. The governor gave hospitals one week to complete the exercise to make sure their procedures were up to standard.
"The announcement last night of a New York City doctor who tested positive for Ebola underscores that we're doing the right things to prepare for a potential case in Connecticut," said Governor Malloy, who was briefed today on the Ebola situation by State Department of Public Health (DPH) Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen. "Making sure our hospitals and first responders are prepared is critical to our efforts."
Following Governor Malloy's directive, DPH issued guidance to hospitals on conducting the drill, which required an exercise specific to treating a patient with Ebola-like symptoms. The drills also had to include Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Elements of the drills included functional aspects of caring for a suspected Ebola patient such as screening protocols, methods of isolation, and use and disposal of personal protective equipment.
DPH is reviewing After Action Reports submitted by the hospitals, which will provide valuable feedback on how hospitals can further enhance levels of preparedness.
"These drills tested hospitals' ability to identify, isolate, and treat a suspect patient with Ebola," said Commissioner Mullen. "We will continue to work with them to ensure they can identify a patient with Ebola, protect health care workers so they can safely care for the patient, and remain coordinated with emergency responders."
DPH has been working with hospitals for more than a decade through its hospital preparedness program to enhance hospital preparedness "all-hazard scenarios" including infectious disease outbreaks.
The Governor's Unified Command Team (UCT) on Ebola is working closely with the First Responder community, including convening meetings to share information and best practices, and to answer questions. The UCT also released guidance to First Responders that addresses a variety of issues including dispatcher protocols, information for first responders regarding appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, as well as guidance to municipalities that receive a quarantine order.
In addition, the State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has provisions and plans in place for proper cleanup, handling, disposal of biomedical waste and other potentially contaminated material. This will help ensure protection of public health and avoid any further spread of the Ebola virus.
Over the past several weeks, Governor Malloy has taken several preventive measures to help prevent the spread of Ebola in Connecticut. o Governor Malloy signed an executive order to grant authority to the Public Health Commissioner to quarantine an individual or group of individuals exposed or infected with the Ebola virus. o The Department of Public Health has requested that all hospitals conduct an assessment of their readiness to detect, protect and respond to patients infected with Ebola. o Governor Malloy convened a Unified Command Team to ensure statewide coordination in the ongoing emergency management efforts and also to provide clear communication to the public. o The United Way's 2-1-1 is also a resource equipped to handle inquiries regarding the Ebola virus. The Governor's Unified Command Team continues to meet to coordinate the state's preparedness and any potential response, including working with the first responder community to provide them with operational guidance.
For more information, please visit the state's new Ebola website, www.ct.gov/ebola .
###
For Immediate Release: October 24, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 24, 2014
SATURDAY: GOV. MALLOY SPEAKS AT USS NORTH DAKOTA CEREMONY; ATTENDS UNIVERSITY OF HARTFORD DINNER; SPEAKS AT CHILDREN'S MEDICAL CENTER FUNDRAISER
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Saturday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will speak at the commissioning ceremony of the USS North Dakota at the Submarine Base in Groton.
In the evening, Governor Malloy will make welcoming remarks at the University of Hartford's Hartt School Gala, benefitting scholarships for college students.
Following that, the Governor will speak at the Connecticut Children's Medical Center's 22nd annual Storybook Gala, celebrating the hundreds of thousands of children and families who are cared for each year at the hospital.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the commissioning ceremony of the USS North Dakota WHEN : Saturday, October 25, 2014; 11:00 a.m. WHERE : Naval Submarine Base New London; 1 Crystal Lake Road, Groton
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the University of Hartford's Hartt School gala WHEN : Saturday, October 25, 2014; Event begins at 6:00 p.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 6:30 p.m. WHERE : Hartford Marriott; 200 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks at the Connecticut Children's Medical Center's 22nd annual Storybook Gala WHEN : Saturday, October 25, 2014; Event begins at 6:00 p.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 7:00 p.m. WHERE : Connecticut Convention Center; 100 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 24, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 25, 2014
SUNDAY: GOV. MALLOY PARTICIPATES IN INAUGURATION OF TRINITY COLLEGE'S 22ND PRESIDENT
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Sunday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will participate in the inauguration ceremony of Joanne Berger-Sweeney as the 22nd president of Trinity College in Hartford.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks inauguration ceremony of Trinity College President Joanne Berger-Sweeney WHEN : Sunday, October 26, 2014; 11:00 a.m. WHERE : Trinity College, Koeppel Community Sports Center; 175 New Britain Avenue, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 25, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 26, 2014
MONDAY: GOV. MALLOY SPEAKS AT CEREMONY CELEBRATING THE EXPANSION OF FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Monday afternoon, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will speak at a ceremony in Stamford celebrating the expansion of Frontier Communications in Connecticut.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy speaks ceremony celebrating the expansion of Frontier Communications WHEN : Monday, October 27, 2014; Event begins at 5:00 p.m., Governor Malloy to speak at 5:45 p.m. WHERE : Frontier Communications; 555 Main Street, Stamford
###
For Immediate Release: October 26, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 27, 2014
GOV. MALLOY OUTLINES STATE'S POLICIES FOR MONITORING TRAVELERS FROM GUINEA, LIBERIA, AND SIERRA LEONE Policy More Stringent than CDC Requirements: Mandatory Active Monitoring for All Travelers; Quarantine for Individuals Based on Risk Factors; Final Determinations to Be Reviewed on a Case-By-Case Basis
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today issued the following outline of how the state is monitoring the health of any individual returning to Connecticut after traveling from one of the countries in West Africa affected by the Ebola outbreak.
Earlier this month, the Governor announced that the state was utilizing its authority under the order signed by the Governor granting the Department of Public Health (DPH) Commissioner the discretion to quarantine people who have met the threshold for such action. As of last week, the department has issued four quarantine orders in the state involving nine people. One order involving one person has been rescinded based on a review of additional information related to travel activities. Currently, there are eight people in quarantine in Connecticut.
"We have taken this situation very seriously for months," said Governor Malloy. "With the news of a recent traveler with Ebola in neighboring New York, it is critical that we look at each case on an individual basis. The protocols outlined here will ensure that we have the ability to take preventative action that will protect public health, utilizing the best information we have and the expertise of our public health officials. DPH will continue to err on the side of caution in each and every circumstance."
Under these protocols, DPH is working with federal authorities and is being notified of travelers arriving in Connecticut from the three West African countries impacted by the Ebola virus: Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. All such travelers will be subject to 21 days of active mandatory monitoring, and Connecticut's DPH will review each case and determine if additional steps beyond monitoring are necessary based upon a review of the person's travel history and potential exposure. Under active monitoring, local health directors contact individuals daily to obtain their temperatures and determine whether they have developed any symptoms of illness.
Discussing the state's procedures, DPH Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen said, "Once the traveler has arrived in Connecticut, they are interviewed by local health department staff or by an epidemiologist from the Connecticut DPH. Detailed information is obtained by these public health officials about the person's travel and whether they potentially could have been exposed to Ebola. Epidemiological experts at DPH assess this information, including the quality of the information collected. We then discuss, and decide on the appropriate steps to protect the public's health - erring always on the side of caution."
If the Commissioner deems it necessary based on information gathered during the screening process, a quarantine will be required. Under these guidelines, a person held under quarantine is not sick, but is kept away from other people because they may have been exposed to an infectious or contagious disease.
The state's isolation procedure will be implemented once a person is exhibiting symptoms, so that further infection of other people can be prevented.
For more information, please visit the state's Ebola website, www.ct.gov/ebola .
### For Immediate Release: October 27, 2014
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 28, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES FUNDING TO PRESERVE NEARLY 2,250 ACRES OF OPEN SPACE IN 25 COMMUNITIES STATEWIDE New Haven and Norwalk Also Receive Funds for Community Gardens
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that nearly $7.8 million in state grants will assist 25 communities in purchasing 2,237 acres to be preserved as open space. In addition, $96,250 was awarded to establish community gardens in New Haven and Norwalk.
"Conserving land is an important investment in our future, and today's grants move us closer to meeting our goal of protecting 21 percent of Connecticut's land as permanently protected open space," said Governor Malloy. "Preservation projects such as these are fundamental to maintaining our high-quality of life, protecting the immense natural beauty of our state, and making Connecticut a great place to live, work and raise a family."
The Governor continued, "Our residents and visitors will soon have many new open space areas in which to enjoy family time together outdoors and all that nature has to offer. It is also important to note that these lands will provide very convenient access to the outdoors, as more than 685,000 Connecticut residents - or about 20% of our population - are within a 10-minute drive of one of these properties."
The grants come through the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition program, which is administered by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). This program provides financial support to local governments and land trusts in purchasing open space, using state bonds and funding from the 2005 Community Investment Act.
The open space grant program requires the local party to grant the state a conservation and public recreation easement, which ensures that the property is permanently protected for public use and benefit. DEEP prioritizes funding for projects that meet the multiple goals of open space, such as protecting vital habitats, creating and enhancing recreational resources, and protecting our valuable water resources.
These open space grants will help the State of Connecticut achieve its goal of protecting 673,210 acres of land by 2023. Connecticut now has 496,948 acres designated as state or local open space lands, 73.8% of the goal. Since the program was launched in 1998, more than $117 million in state funding has been awarded to municipalities, nonprofit land conservation organizations, and water companies to assist in the purchase of 29,181 acres of land in 135 cities and towns.
One of the grants being announced today helps secure "The Preserve" - a 1,000 acre coastal-forest area that the state is seeking to purchase along with the Town of Old Saybrook and surrounding towns. The $471,250 award to the Essex Land Trust supports that organization's plans to purchase a 70.6-acre section of "The Preserve" that is within the borders of that town.
The grants for Community Gardens in New Haven and Norwalk are the result of a more recent component of the open space grant program. These grants are designed to create green spaces in city neighborhoods, open up urban lands for outdoor recreation, and help improve community health by encouraging the growing of local fruits and vegetables.
"The community gardens initiative was added to the open space program in 2007 to address multiple open space needs in urban areas," said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. "This portion of the grant program acknowledges that preserving places people care about is as important in our cities and inner suburbs as it is in more rural areas."
Grant Award Summaries
LAND ACQUISITION/EASEMENTS
Town : Bethany Project Title : Carrington Preserve Sponsor : Town of Bethany Grant Award : $232,500 Total Acres : 73.75 Description : This undeveloped property is wooded with oaks, hickories, birches and maples, and has 937 feet of frontage on an unimproved road know as Atwater Road. With a varied topography ranging from 500 to 600 feet in elevation, about 45% of the property is steep or influenced by wetland. There is an unnamed stream that runs from this property into Pine Brook and then Bladens River (Naugatuck River Watershed).
Town : Berlin Project Title : Rogoz Property Sponsor : City of Meriden Grant Award : $60,450 Total Acres : 30 Description : This property is heavily forested with substantial ground cover. It has a sloping terrain from both Chamberlain Highway and Park Drive. The central portion of the property is rolling to partially level terrain. This acquisition is being proposed because the property is classified as Class II watershed land and would be managed as a preserve protecting and enhancing the drinking water supply of Elmere and Merimere Reservoirs.
Town : Canton Project Title : Humphrey Property Sponsor : Canton Land Trust Grant Award : $17,500 Total Acres : 12.5 Description : This property abuts land owned by the Canton Land Conservation Trust on three sides. Acquisition of this property would be added to the adjacent Canton Land Conservation Trust area, totaling 300 acres. Located in Canton's northwest quadrant, this undeveloped wooded parcel with beech, birch, maple, hemlock, oak, and pines is part of a larger mixed deciduous forest typical of Ratlum Mountain. This property provides habitat for nesting interior forest bird species and other wildlife.
Town : Colchester Project Title : Moroch Property Sponsor : Town of Colchester Grant Award : $33,183 Total Acres : 10.21 Description : This parcel expands an existing property the Town purchased in 2001 under the grant program, the Ruby Choen project. The undeveloped, forested property contains two streams and a 4.1-acre wetland and will become part the "Cohen Woods Focus Area," a designated Connecticut Greenway. The Sponsor aims to combine this greenway with the local Judd Brook Greenway.
Town : Cornwall Project Title : Trinity Camp Project Sponsor : Cornwall Conservation Trust Grant Award : $464,750 Total Acres : 317 Description : Located just south of the Cornwall Bridge, this unfragmented forested property rises from the Housatonic River and will now create an unbroken greenway of over 3 miles in length. Abutting Housatonic State Forest, the property contains two significant upland wetlands and almost two miles of stream corridors. Habitats include steep cliffs, riparian forest, and a beaver pond. A rough trail network exists and provides ready access to the public to this large track and abutting open space area.
Town : Coventry Project Title : Williams Property Sponsor : Town of Coventry Grant Award : $262,600 Total Acres : 61.76 Description : Among this property's major assets are undeveloped forest that abuts existing protected open space land owned by Joshua's Trust and 430 feet of frontage on the Willimantic River (Eagleville Pond). With a total 570 feet of frontage and modest slopes from Cooper Lane to the Willimantic River, acquisition of this property adds to the insightful planning of a green corridor along the Willimantic River and provides public access to aquatic resources.
Town : East Haddam Project Title : Lena Property Sponsor : Town of East Haddam Grant Award : $487,500 Total Acres : 207 Description : This undeveloped, moderately wooded, recently logged property is located within the federally designated Eightmile River Wild - Scenic Watershed. The property has 1,200 feet of frontage on Tater Hill Road and 2,200 feet on Babcock Road. The topography is varied, as expected for its size, gradually rolling with some steep slopes and areas with little slope that have been used for pasturing. The parcel has a mix of upland forest, intermittent streams, vernal pools, and woodland wetlands that support a variety of woodland wildlife species. Along Babcock Road there is an active agricultural field, and the potential for reclaiming two additional fields for agricultural use.
Town : East Haddam Project Title : Zeleznicky Property Sponsor : Town of East Haddam - The Nature Conservancy Grant Award : $78,000 Total Acres : 19.26 Description : The Town of East Haddam and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) cooperatively protected this property. The property is surrounded on three sides by TNC's Burnham Brook Preserve and contains 1,000 feet of Burnham Brook, an important tributary to the Eightmile River. This forested, undeveloped lot with its associated habitats adds to a large network of conserved properties in the surrounding area.
Town : Essex Project Title : The Preserve Sponsor : Essex Land Trust Grant Award : $471,250 Total Acres : 70.6 Description : With about 70 acres located in the Town of Essex, "The Preserve" is a 1,000-acre coastal forest that has a nearly 15-year history towards its preservation. The property is an undeveloped, dense canopied forest. This vast area is an important refueling stopover site for migratory birds. Along with The Preserve's varied wildlife habitats, the Peqout Swamp, and 38 vernal pools, it is also the headwaters of three watersheds which eventually flow into Long Island Sound.
Town : Farmington Project Title : Lot 8 Collinsville Road Sponsor : Town of Farmington Grant Award : $69,875 Total Acres : 10.75 Description : Located in the extreme northwest corner of Farmington, this undeveloped wooded parcel has almost 1,700 feet of frontage on the Farmington River. The parcel abuts Lot 7 Collinsville Road, a 29.2 acre property along the Farmington River which also received a grant under the OSWA program, thus contributing to the development of the greenway along the River. The property has an existing trail system for public recreation.
Town : Franklin/Sprague Project Title : Robinson Property Sponsor : Town of Sprague Grant Award : $180,000 Total Acres : 111 Description : The Town of Sprague requested the grant funds for the acquisition of this property. Located mostly in the Town of Franklin, the property creates a 577 acre preserve with two abutting parcels in which Sprague previously received funds for under the OSWA program, the 236-acre Mukluk project and the 230-acre Watson property. The Robinson Property is an old growth forest interior lot with a mix of maple, birch walnut, cherry, and a few small pine stands. The size of this property supports a variety of wildlife habitats including upland wetland, stream (some seasonal), rock ledge outcroppings, and vernal pools. Its proximity to the Shetucket River enhances the assurance of water quality protection. The acquisition of this property permanently protects and expands an existing trail system along the river and within the interior.
Town : Glastonbury Project Title : Somers Open Space Sponsor : Town of Glastonbury Grant Award : $279,500 Total Acres : 25.46 Description : This property is a continuation of the supportive roles that the Town of Glastonbury and DEEP have had in preserving open space and protecting habitat for the Timber Rattlesnake. The acquisition of the mixed hardwood forest here protects the Timber Rattlesnake's habitat, a flow-through watercourse, and unbroken forested area. An existing house on the property will be razed and the lot may serve as a public recreation access point to the property.
Town : Goshen Project Title : Fisher Property Sponsor : Goshen Land Trust, Inc. Grant Award : $382,500 Total Acres : 127.31 Description : Located in northwestern Goshen on Route 63, this parcel slopes gradually upward to the east and reaches a summit at the end. The property is diversely covered with a mix of northern hardwoods, over 6 acres of early successional habitat important for the New England Cottontail and other wildlife species, and over 12 acres of grasslands with an identified wetland area and small flow-through stream. This property abuts the DEEP-owned Northern Goshen Wildlife Management Area to the northeast.
Town : Guilford Project Title : Dandio Property Sponsor : South Central Regional Water Authority Grant Award : $396,500 Total Acres : 61.05 Description : This property, protected by a drinking water supply company, qualifies as Class I and Class II watershed lands. The land is located in the Town of Guilford, abuts Regional Water Authority property to the south, and is associated with Lake Menunketuc Reservoir. Currently in a wooded, undeveloped state, the property has several unnamed tributaries to Lake Menunketuc flowing through it. Based on the planned uses (i.e., drinking water supplies) and exceptions sometimes given to Class I and Class II water company lands in the OSWA program, public access was not required on this property. The property will be managed as a buffer to the reservoir left in its natural state.
Town : Ledyard/Groton Project Title : Avery Farm Sponsor : Groton Open Space Association Grant Award : $611,000 Total Acres : 297.7 Description : The Avery Farm spans the Towns of Groton and Ledyard. The Sponsor was awarded a grant to purchase 151 acres from a landowner in Ledyard, and the remaining 145 acres located in Groton will be donated to the Groton Open Space Association. The property is part of a large block of diverse wildlife habitats including grasslands, early successional and upland forest, rocky outcrops, Atlantic white cedar swamp, marshland, vernal pools, and the Ed Lamb and Haley Brooks. The Avery Farm has a confirmed colony of New England cottontails and other recognized endangered and threatened species inhabiting it. This property abuts the 89-acre Candlewood Ridge project funded by the OSWA program in 2012. The Groton Open Space Association will reserve the right to continue farming, pasturing and haying on areas that are currently being used for such purposes.
Town : Lyme Project Title : Sheldon Creek River Access Sponsor : Lyme Land Conservation Trust - Town of Lyme Grant Award : $351,000 Total Acres : 2.87 Description : This property, currently maintained as an open meadow, includes 157 feet of waterfront access along Sheldon cove on the Connecticut River. Brackish tidal wetlands and river marshland along the creek provides breeding, foraging, and resting habitat for migratory bird species, and is recognized as a "Wetlands of International Importance." Fish diversity within this region is recognizably high. Public parking and recreation to the river are easily accessible.
Town : Manchester Project Title : Botti Farm Sponsor : Manchester Land Conservation Trust, Inc. Grant Award : $594,750 Total Acres : 62 Description : This project is located in the southwest corner of Manchester and spans into Glastonbury. It is contiguous with the Sponsor-owned Manning Ferris Farm, a 13-acre mature woodlot. This property also contains a mature woodlot at the Manchester/Glastonbury town line, and open farm and meadow fields in the interior. Underneath, the property contains 12 acres of prime farmland and 10 acres of important farmland soils. There are remnants of famous fruit trees that made this farm popular, but the trees have not been managed since 1998.
Town : Middletown Project Title : Pierce Property Sponsor : City of Middletown Grant Award : $243,750 Total Acres : 113.58 Description : This property contains Mount Higby, characterized by steep slopes, thin soils, and a rolling topography in an undeveloped, heavily forested matrix. At one time, the property was an accepted route for the Mattabesett Trail, and the acquisition will now relocate the Trail to its original route. The property abuts existing open space previously protected under this program, known as the "Wesleyan Parcel."
Town : Morris Project Title : Farnhan Farm Easement Sponsor : Morris Land Trust, Inc. Grant Award : $422,500 Total Acres : 129.8 Description : The purchase of a conservation easement on the Farnhan Farm protects lands historically used for dairy production and other agricultural fields. In addition to 38 acres of prime and 8 acres of statewide important agricultural soils, the property is composed of a heavily forested area to the north, 18 acres of wetlands with associated ponds, brooks (Slab Meadow Brook), streams and vernal pools, and habitat recognized for New England Cottontail. The property shares a common boundary with nearly one mile of Class I and Class II watershed land associated with the Pitch, Morris and Wigwam Reservoirs, and has over one-half mile of the Mattatuck Trail located on it.
Town : Newtown Project Title : Chestnut Hill Open Space Preserve Sponsor : Town of Newtown Grant Award : $110,000 Total Acres : 36.98 Description : This property is located in the southeast corner of Newtown near the Monroe and Oxford town lines, and will add to existing town-owned open space to create an over 70-acre preserve. The property is within the Halfway River Watershed and contains wetland, vernal pools and deciduous forest floodplains in an undeveloped natural setting. An unnamed tributary to the Halfway River runs through and is likely enjoyed by an Eastern Box Turtle that was recently discovered on the property. The ridgeline topography runs north-south and has a steep slope to the east toward the Halfway River.
Town : Old Lyme Project Title : 106 Four Mile River Road Sponsor : Old Lyme Land Trust Grant Award : $162,500 Total Acres : 40.76 Description : This property boasts over 1,250 feet of frontage and therefore public access along Four Mile River Road. Upon acquisition, it will be added to a complex of protected open space parcels now totaling 147 acres. The property is traversed by two wetland tributaries of the Three Mile River and is covered by diverse upland forest and stands of mountain laurel.
Town : Redding Project Title : Biehn Property Sponsor : Town of Redding Grant Award : $170,000 Total Acres : 30.704 Description : This undeveloped, mostly wooded property has over 1,600 feet of frontage on Hill Road (Route 107) and about 300 feet on Rail Coach Road. The topography of the property is heavily influenced by wetlands and three watercourses or tributaries that run to the Saugatuck Reservoir. The property abuts Class I watershed land owned by the water supply company Aquarion. The State of Connecticut has designated Redding as a Water Conservation Area, and acquisition and protection of this property meets several water protection goals and objectives in State and Town recognized planning documents.
Town : Stafford Project Title : Culver Pond Sponsor : Northern Connecticut Land Trust, Inc. Grant Award : $273,000 Total Acres : 125.5 Description : This property abuts a section of the Shenipsit State Forest, located in the far northwest corner of Stafford on Gilbert Road. It also abuts 1,400 feet of Culver pond, and Rockadundee Brook passes through the property. With 1,700 feet of frontage, the parcel will add to a large, 1,500-acre protected un-fragmented forest block. The property is currently managed under an approved and active forest management plan, and the public is allowed to access using established logging trails.
Town : Stamford Project Title : Mill River Easement Sponsor : City of Stamford Grant Award : $263,647 Total Acres : 0.41 Description : The sponsor negotiated with 11 separate property owners to acquire a trail easement along the owners' back yards that abut the Mill River. Approximately 50 feet in width, the trail easement will add to the 28-acre, three-mile long Mill River Park and Greenway. Acquisition of the easement will not relocate residents or businesses, but it will restore natural habitat along the river. A long time goal of Stamford, the trail easement along Mill River will provide public access to Long Island Sound.
Town : Tolland Project Title : Knofla Pond Property Sponsor : Town of Tolland Grant Award : $395,200 Total Acres : 67.59 Description : Located in northwest Tolland, this property has 1,700 feet of frontage on Bakos Road. It contains a 5.74-acre pond that is about 9 feet deep and fed by Cemetery Brook (a tributary to Shenipisit Lake) and underground springs. The acquisition protects Class I and Class II drinking water supply lands, water quality, and protects an area identified as an "Important Wildlife Area and Corridor with Significant Wildlife Habitat" in the Tolland Open Space and Conservation Plan. The property is currently managed under an approved forest management plan, and provides public outdoor recreation and environmental education opportunities, as well.
Town : Westbrook Project Title : Horse Hill Woods - Phase II Sponsor : Town of Westbrook Grant Award : $650,000 Total Acres : 186 Description : Phase Two of this project is the acquisition of two separately owned but abutting parcels of land: the Russo (143 acres) and Miele (43 acres) properties. Both parcels have road frontage on Horse Hill Road. The Russo property is characterized by wetlands and mixed hardwood forest ridges. A palustrine forest and scrub-shrub wetlands dominate the area between the ridges. The Miele property also consists of mixed hardwoods, but was logged in 1992 and 2011, creating a more open canopy and edge habitat.
URBAN GREEN AND COMMUNITY GARDEN GRANTS
Town : Norwalk Project Title : Ina Clark Community Garden Sponsor : City of Norwalk Grant Award : $46,250 Description : The Ina Clark Community Garden is located in South Norwalk, in one of the most disadvantaged neighborhoods in the city. Currently, 88 garden plots exist on a 2-acre parcel. The award will be used to upgrade the Community Garden with lighting, fencing, a pavilion for educational and other public gatherings, signage, and paved pathways for ADA accessibility.
Town : New Haven Project Title : Various Community Gardens Sponsor : City of New Haven Grant Award : $50,000 Description : The New Haven Land Trust operates the Community Garden program in the City of New Haven. Over lands owned by the Land Trust, the City of New Haven, and the New Haven Housing Authority, 3 community gardens will be newly created and 10 will be upgraded. Some improvements will include: restoring dilapidated beds, amending soil, building sheds to secure tools, expanding space, extending growing seasons with hoop houses, low tunnels and cold frames, installing fencing and irrigation, and improving ADA accessibility.
###
For Immediate Release: October 28, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Contact: Dennis Schain Department of Energy and Environmental Protection [email protected] 860-424-3110 (office) 860-462-3468 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 28, 2014
GOV. MALLOY STATEMENT ON THE NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD'S REPORT DETAILING CAUSES OF METRO-NORTH INCIDENTS NTSB Releases Report Announcing Probable Causes of the Five Accidents Involving Metro-North Between May 2013 and March 2014
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today received the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report which provides information and identifies probable causes of five major Metro-North incidents over the past 18 months. Cited in the report are lapses in oversight and performance by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Metro-North Railroad and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
"This report confirms the concerns that I raised with Metro-North leadership regarding their business practices well over a year and half ago. Since then, much has been accomplished, but it will take an ongoing commitment to ensuring a safety culture in the organization as well as investing in the essential safety, maintenance and training resources at Metro-North. The Department of Transportation has been working diligently with Metro-North on the performance improvement strategies, and the State of Connecticut has ensured them that we will provide the necessary resources to achieve a safe and reliable railroad."
Some of the investments include implementing Positive Train Control and video and audio recording devices as recommended by the FRA.
Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner James Redeker cited several examples of actions taken at the Governor's urging to address the safety culture of the organization. Train schedules were revised to ensure adequate time for track maintenance, testing and training programs have been revamped, a new Office of System Safety was created, a System Safety Plan has been developed, the close-call reporting system is being implemented, and there is clear evidence of communicating safety messages across the organization.
"We will continue to work with Metro-North on delivering safe and reliable service," said Commissioner Redeker. "That is what the customers and taxpayers of Connecticut deserve."
###
For Immediate Release: October 28, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 28, 2014
WEDNESDAY: GOV. MALLOY TO ANNOUNCE MAJOR EXPANSION AT ELECTRIC BOAT
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Wednesday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, where he will join the company's executives and staff to announce a substantial expansion of good paying jobs with good benefits at the iconic Connecticut company. He will also be joined by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman Joe Courtney, and other state lawmakers and officials.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Senator Blumenthal, Congressman Courtney, General Dynamics Electric Boat executives and staff WHAT : Governor Malloy holds news conference to announce major expansion at Electric Boat WHEN : Wednesday, October 29, 2014; 11:15 a.m. WHERE : General Dynamics Electric Boat; 75 Eastern Point Road, Groton
###
For Immediate Release: October 28, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 29, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: ELECTRIC BOAT EXPANSION WILL FURTHER STRENGTHEN STATE'S REPUTATION AS A LEADER IN THE DEFENSE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY Company's $31.5 Million Investment in Southeastern Connecticut Will Add or Protect a Total of 8,900 Full- Time Jobs
(GROTON, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that Connecticut-based General Dynamics Electric Boat, the world's premier designer and builder of nuclear submarines, is expanding its facilities in Groton to meet increased hiring and industry demands. The state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) will provide Electric Boat with a $10 million loan in support of the $31.5 million project. As part of its expansion, Electric Boat expects to add up to 200 new employees to its Connecticut workforce of 8,700.
"Our state's defense product and parts manufacturing sector is becoming increasingly important to the Pentagon's supply chain and, ultimately, our national defense strategy as illustrated by the growing number and value of contracts awarded to Connecticut-based industry leaders like Electric Boat over the past decade," said Governor Malloy. "The important work being done at Electric Boat is not only critical to our nation's security but also to our economy, involving subcontracts with hundreds of suppliers around the state and employing thousands of residents in southeastern Connecticut. With the help of our partners at Electric Boat, this expansion, and the hundreds of new, good-paying jobs with good benefits that come with it, will strengthen our efforts to position Connecticut for a manufacturing revolution based on a new era of innovation, investment and economic growth."
In operation for over 100 years, Electric Boat is the U.S. Navy's prime contractor for the design and construction of the U.S. Navy's Virginia Class nuclear submarines, subcontracting with nearly 600 vendors across Connecticut that supply over $600 million worth of goods and services for this defense acquisition program. In April, the U.S. Navy awarded Electric Boat a contract valued at $17.6 billion for the construction and delivery of the next block (Block IV) of Virginia Class submarines.
"Today's announcement supports the required facility expansion that will help Electric Boat affordably deliver submarines to the U.S. Navy," said Electric Boat President Jeffrey S. Geiger. "The state's investment will also enable Electric Boat to grow, and remain a successful business and significant contributor to the economic health of Southeastern Connecticut."
Electric Boat's expansion of its facilities is necessary to accommodate additional engineers, designers and other professionals that the company requires as it continues its contracted work related to the Virginia Class Program as well as the Ohio Replacement Program, the newest class of submarines.
"This announcement today is a great example of a public private partnership," said Tony Sheridan, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut. "It is what government can and indeed should do for its citizens. Bringing together key parties to create jobs and as a result creating a positive economic outlook for the entire region. It is a win-win situation for all parties involved, Electric Boat, Pfizer with the reuse of one of their buildings the City of Groton and last but not least maintaining and creating quality jobs for the region and state."
"This wise investment means jobs for Connecticut workers and affirms our state's continued global leadership and dominance in the design and construction of the strongest and stealthiest weapons systems at sea today," said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. "As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Malloy and Electric Boat to ensure that Connecticut continues its proud tradition of providing the world the most technologically-advanced vessels ever made."
"Today's announcement is yet another tangible sign of the growth at Electric Boat and southeastern Connecticut being driven by the Block IV submarine contract and increasing work on the Ohio replacement," said U.S. Representative Joe Courtney. "With hundreds of job openings at Electric Boat and hundreds more added at the former Pfizer site in New London, Connecticut's assistance to Electric Boat comes at a critical time and this modest investment will have a high impact for our region and for the state. Thank you to Governor Malloy, Commissioner Smith, and EB President Jeff Geiger for making this happen."
DECD will provide Electric Boat with a loan of $10 million at an interest rate of 2 percent for a ten-year term. Electric Boat may be eligible for full loan forgiveness if it successfully fulfills its employment obligation of 8,900 total jobs within two years.
"This is the latest example of how we are partnering with industry leaders to strengthen sectors vital to our long-term economic growth," said DECD Commissioner Catherine Smith. "When cutting-edge companies like Electric Boat make new investments of this magnitude in our state, they have ripple effects throughout the economy that are felt for years to come."
As part of its plans to reinvest in improving its competitive advantage and expanding its presence in Connecticut, Electric Boat will purchase a parcel currently owned by Pfizer Corporation, including land and buildings located at 9 King's Highway in Groton. A portion of the project will involve improvements to the former Pfizer property as well as upgrades to Electric Boat's existing facilities and equipment located in Groton. Electric Boat is making these investments to prepare for a ramp-up in production and contract work which will have a statewide impact on economic activity and the hiring of employees in the Defense Product and Parts Manufacturing sector.
###
For Immediate Release: October 29, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 29, 2014
GOV. MALLOY STATEMENT ON THE SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF SUPER STORM SANDY
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today released the following statement on the second anniversary of Super Storm Sandy:
"Our state continues to recover but there's more work to do. In the months that have passed since Super Storm Sandy, Tropical Storm Irene, and the October Nor'easter of 2011, we have taken steps to make sure our state can weather the effects of climate change. We've created the nation's first microgrid program, providing town centers with the capability of sustaining power during large-scale outages. We're holding utility companies accountable by imposing penalties on them if they don't take proper precautions or if they don't restore service in a timely manner.
"We're investing millions in hardening infrastructure along our shoreline to protect from future flooding, especially along our transportation system. We've created Shore Up CT to help shoreline residents who are subject to coastal flooding elevate their homes and businesses from future severe weather, filling a funding gap left by federal programs. We've designated thousands of acres of forest along our shoreline as open space, preserving the land in perpetuity and acting as a coastal buffer against storm waters. And, working with our Congressional delegation, we've secured hundreds of millions to help communities in need rebuild.
"Without question, there is more work to do. But we are making progress, and we're committed to seeing this through to the end."
###
For Immediate Release: October 29, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 29, 2014
TODAY AT 7PM: GOV. MALLOY SPEAKS AT CONN. WOMEN'S HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY
(HARTFORD, CT) - This evening at 7:00 p.m., Governor Dannel P. Malloy will make welcoming remarks at the Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame 21st annual induction ceremony in Hartford. This year, three inductees, ten honorees, and one junior honoree will be celebrated for their accomplishments.
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy makes welcoming remarks at Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame 21st annual induction ceremony WHEN : TODAY - Wednesday, October 29, 2014; 7:00 p.m. WHERE : Connecticut Convention Center; 100 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 29, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 29, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES OVER $4.7 MILLION FOR BEFORE- AND AFTER- SCHOOL PROGRAMS ACROSS THE STATE Over $800,000 Designated for Expanded Learning Time
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that nearly $4 million in funding for before and after-school programs in low-performing, high-poverty schools are being awarded around the state, in addition to over $800,000 in grants for expanded learning time.
"Setting our students on a path to success sometimes requires providing extra support outside of the typical school day," Governor Malloy said. "Quality after-school programs provide an important opportunity to deliver extra help to our students who need it."
In thirteen towns across the state, 26 public and private organizations shared $3.9 million in grants to support the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend low-performing schools serving economically disadvantaged students. The grants were awarded as part of the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which supports both expanded learning time initiatives and high-quality before or after-school programs.
Seven schools - three in Meriden, two in New London, and one each in Windham and East Hartford - received grants to add 300 or more hours of instruction through a longer school day, longer week, or longer school year.
"High quality after-school programs have the potential to help improve academic achievement while also broadening horizons for our students," said State Department of Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor. "Through these programs, students can access extra help on homework assignments, participate in arts activities, or take part in a community service project."
The before and after-school programs help students meet state and local standards in core academic subjects, such as reading and math; offer students a broad array of enrichment activities that can complement their regular academic programs; and offer literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children. Centers provide a range of high-quality services to support student learning and development, including tutoring and mentoring, homework help, academic enrichment (such as hands-on science or technology programs), community service opportunities, as well as music, arts, sports, health and cultural activities. At the same time, centers help working parents by providing a safe environment for students when school is not in session.
Through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, several schools are partnering with community agencies to provide student supports. Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, and other cities, as well as private organizations, such as the YMCA and Catholic Charities, received grants ranging from about $53,550 to $180,000.
The seven grants awarded to support extended learning time range from $99,630 to $123,000.
###
For Immediate Release: October 29, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Contact: Kelly Donnelly Connecticut State Department of Education [email protected] 860-713-6525 (office) 860-983-1550 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 29, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: FUELCELL ENERGY EXPANSION ADVANCES CONNECTICUT'S LONG-TERM ENERGY GOALS Leading Fuel Cell Company to Expand and Create 325 New Jobs
(TORRINGTON, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that Danbury-based FuelCell Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: FCEL) will begin a two-phased expansion of its Torrington manufacturing facility. The company expects the project to add up to 325 new jobs over the next four years to its existing Connecticut workforce of 538 employees.
"Connecticut is a hub of innovation and, in particular, we are consistently ranked among the top states leading the U.S. fuel cell industry which, in our state alone, employs thousands of workers and generates millions of dollars in economic activity and tax revenue," Governor Malloy said. "The fuel cell industry is simply too important not to be part of our long-term energy goals to implement cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable energy sources for Connecticut's residents and businesses. We want to ensure there is no place better for the renewable energy sector to grow and create jobs than right here in Connecticut and this project puts FuelCell Energy in the position to do just that."
Founded in Connecticut, FuelCell Energy is a global leader in the design, manufacture, operation and service of ultra clean, efficient and reliable fuel cell power plants. The company has a manufacturing facility located in Torrington, and its corporate offices, R-D facilities and global technical assistance center - which monitors all of the company's global installations 24 hours a day - are in Danbury.
The fuel cell power plants designed in Danbury and manufactured in Torrington are changing the global energy landscape with highly efficient and virtually pollutant free power that is generated near the point of use. These power generation solutions are enhancing the resiliency of the electric grid while supporting low carbon and sustainability initiatives. The company is also advancing new solutions such as distributed hydrogen generation for industrial and transportation applications as well as carbon capture for large-scale coal and gas fired power generation.
"The business environment in the state is conducive for growth, and FuelCell Energy has already created approximately 100 new jobs in less than two years - reflecting the global adoption of our affordable and efficient distributed power generation solutions," Chip Bottone, Chief Executive Officer, FuelCell Energy, Inc. said. "Locating both our manufacturing and research and development in Connecticut enables alignment with state-level work force development initiatives as well as research linkages with the university system."
FuelCell's expansion project, which will proceed in two phases, is a multi-year investment of approximately $23 million to construct a 90,000-square-foot addition to the Torrington manufacturing facility as well as add equipment for automation and technology for efficiency and advanced manufacturing implementation. The second phase of the expansion, estimated to cost $42 million, will add manufacturing equipment to expand annual production capacity to at least 200 megawatts, increase on-site power capabilities with a larger fuel cell power plant, and create a new advanced technology research center.
"This is a smart investment for the state and the company, as well," Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Commissioner Catherine Smith said. "Connecticut is a hub of innovation, and in particular, a center for the fuel cell industry. FuelCell Energy's commitment to our state will bolster the edge we have developed in this important, emerging industry. Connecticut continues to supply the talented workforce, the right business climate, and the established industry connections that will position FuelCell Energy for future success."
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Commissioner Rob Klee said, "Twenty-first century technology being perfected right here in Connecticut by FuelCell Energy makes that company's products a vital part of the solution to energy challenges facing our state and nation. In fact, FuelCell Energy installations at several locations across Connecticut are helping to demonstrate that we can achieve a cheaper, cleaner, more reliable energy future."
In support of FuelCell Energy's expansion project, DECD will provide the company with a $10 million loan at two percent interest for a term of 15 years for each phase of the project as certain employment and revenue milestones are achieved. FuelCell Energy will be eligible for $5 million in forgiveness on the first tranche of funding if the company creates 165 full- time positions and retains 538 full-time positions, for a total of 703 positions, for two consecutive years. The company can earn $5 million in forgiveness on the second tranche of funding if it creates 160 full-time positions and retains 703 full-time positions, for a total of 863 positions, for two consecutive years. This expansion project also qualifies for up to $10 million of Urban and Industrial Sites Reinvestment Tax Credits (URA), which the company can monetize over a ten year period.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Connecticut is one of the top five states leading the nation in fuel cell commercialization, including implementation of policies that support industry growth, company relocation, patents, and production and installation of fuel cell systems.
In 2010, the approximately 600 companies that play a supporting role to the state's hydrogen and fuel cell industry contributed $267 million to Connecticut's gross state product and more than $22 million in state and local tax revenue, and were responsible for about 1,000 industry-related jobs.
###
For Immediate Release: October 29, 2014 Contact: Peter Yazbak [email protected] 860-524-7362 (office) 860-985-5528 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 29, 2014
THURSDAY: GOV. MALLOY MAKES MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING THE FORMER SITE OF THE NEW HAVEN COLISEUM
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Thursday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference in New Haven to make a major announcement regarding the future use of the site where the New Haven Coliseum was previously located. He will be joined at the announcement by Mayor Toni Harp, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, New Haven Board of Aldermen President Jorge Perez, and LiveWorkLearnPlay Co-Managing Partner and Founding Principal Max Reim.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Mayor Harp, Congresswoman DeLauro, Board of Alderman President Perez, LiveWorkLearnPlay Co-Managing Partner Reim WHAT : Governor Malloy holds news conference to make major announcement regarding the former site of the New Haven Coliseum WHEN : Thursday, October 30, 2014; 11:30 a.m. WHERE : Site of the former New Haven Coliseum; 275 South Orange Street, New Haven
###
For Immediate Release: October 29, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 30, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES FUNDING TO COMPLETE NEW HAVEN'S DOWNTOWN CROSSING Project Will Pave the Way for New Haven Coliseum Site Redevelopment, Create More Than 2,800 Jobs for Residents
Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge
(NEW HAVEN, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy, joined by New Haven Mayor Toni Harp, Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro, New Haven Board of Alders President Jorge Perez and LiveWorkLearnPlay Co-Managing Partner and Founding Principal Max Reim, today announced a $21.5 million investment in Phase II of New Haven's Downtown Crossing plan.
These funds will provide the infrastructure improvements needed to pave the way for the $395 million redevelopment of the former New Haven Coliseum site by developer LiveWorkLearnPlay. The project will generate 2,809 permanent jobs at full operation creating $188,810,000 in annual wages. LiveWorkLearnPlay is also working with the city and New Haven Works to ensure employment opportunities for residents.
"The Coliseum site redevelopment is a vital component of the Downtown Crossing project and is a once in a generation opportunity to rebuild 5.5 acres of prime land in the heart of New Haven," Governor Malloy said. "We have worked hard to establish Connecticut as a world-renowned life sciences hub. New Haven has had that foresight to plan and provide support for this growing workforce. As a result, the city has a prominent global presence in these expanding fields and is front and center in creating quality, high-paying jobs for its residents."
The Downtown Crossing Phase II project transforms this area of New Haven, removing a highway that has been a barrier to connectivity, and replacing the highway with urban boulevards. This funding will allow for Union Station, the Medical District and the Hill neighborhood to connect with Downtown New Haven by rejoining South Orange Street across the current Route 34 towards Union Station, along an at-grade street for pedestrians, cyclists and automobiles.
"Today's announcement underscores the synergy we envision for this development, directly tied to a vibrant biotech industry, a great university, and growing medical center. This is a clear indication that New Haven and Connecticut will continue to be a center for high-tech and life sciences," Mayor Harp said. "We're very proud of this achievement and thank Governor Malloy for his vision, perseverance, and hard work on behalf of the residents of New Haven and Connecticut."
Downtown Crossing will allow the Coliseum Site Redevelopment to attract 35 to 40 new small to mid-sized permanent businesses and up to 25 seasonal incubator businesses, along with a mix of quality housing options ranging from market rate, low, moderate, workforce and affordable housing. In addition, the project will generate approximately 4,700 construction jobs and $303 million in labor income for construction jobs over the seven to ten years of project build-out beginning in 2014.
LiveWorkLearnPlay has been actively working with the city to ensure local New Haven residents and businesses have the opportunity to participate in the project. Most importantly, the project will generate 2,809 permanent jobs at full operation creating $188,810,000 in annual wages. The developer is also committed to working with the city and New Haven Works to ensure employment opportunities for residents.
Downtown Crossing, the city's plan to transform Route 34 East reclaiming 10 acres of land ideally suited for transit-oriented development, is a major keystone in the city's overall redevelopment efforts providing a dense mix of commercial, retail, and housing located within an easy walk of transit.
"Today's announcement is yet another example of how public-private partnerships can revitalize our cities, encourage our innovative local businesses to expand, grow our local economy and improve the quality of life for the people of New Haven," Congresswoman DeLauro. "Investments such as the one being made by Governor Malloy today are vital for our city's growth, and our economy's growth."
State Senate Majority Leader Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) said, "This development is critical to the future vitality of downtown New Haven, and it fills a void that has existed since the demolition of coliseum."
"This state investment will help reconnect parts of the city that were cut off during urban renewal in the 50s and 60s," State Representative Toni Walker (D-New Haven), House Chair of the Appropriations Committee, said. "The Hill, the hospitals, our transportation hub, and our downtown will all be reachable by bike, by walking and by car or public transportation."
"This forward-thinking investment in the infrastructure of our downtown will help connect our growing housing and job centers with our train stations and transit corridors. This is exactly the type of investment government should be making - it will unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in private capital, create thousands of jobs and new residences, re-stitch our downtown, and further solidify New Haven as the cultural, intellectual and medical capitol of Connecticut," said Rep. Roland Lemar (D-New Haven, East Haven), who spearheaded the funding request as his top legislative priority this past year. "Growing our tax base, creating a vibrant, transit-oriented development, rejoining our neighborhoods, adding 30-40 new storefronts, and turning a parking lot into a pedestrian plaza, 2,800 new jobs, and housing for a growing New Haven? This project is a dream come true and I am thrilled that the work we have done to acquire these dollars is finally coming through."
"I applaud our Governor and everyone involved in making this major development project a reality," said Rep. Juan Candelaria (D-New Haven). "New Haven is moving forward in its revitalization and this significant investment is definitely a huge push towards making our city a leader in technology and economic growth."
State Representative Lou Esposito (D-New Haven, West Haven) said, "The Downtown Crossing project is a high-quality, multi- phase construction project that will serve as a new gateway from West Haven. I am pleased to see it moving forward to Phase II and know that the city has worked hard with firms like Winstanley Enterprises and LiveWorkLearnPlay to make this project a reality."
"We applaud Governor Malloy for his vision and support as we continue to fulfill our vision of reconnecting New Haven's neighborhoods and revitalizing the city," said Alder President Jorge Perez. "Residents throughout New Haven and the region will reap the benefits of this project for years to come."
"We are very excited to take this project to the next level and are targeting to be under construction for next summer," said Max Reim of LiveWorkLearnPlay. "None of this would have been possible without the support and leadership of Governor Malloy, Mayor Harp, the Board of Alders, Congresswoman DeLauro, the New Haven legislative delegation, city staff, and the marvelous New Haven community. We are very grateful for Governor Malloy and his senior staff's leadership and support, and the State's commitment to this project. We look forward to this project helping to generate thousands of new jobs in this City, and to create an exciting, vibrant and enduring place where New Haven Will Welcome the World."
###
For Immediate Release: October 30, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 30, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: STATE TROOPERS NOW TRAINED AND EQUIPPED WITH NARCAN TO HELP SAVE LIVES OF OVERDOSE VICTIMS Governor Congratulates State Trooper for Utilizing Training to Save a Life Yesterday in Griswold
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that as the result of the passage of a new state law earlier this year, all Connecticut State Police Troopers have recently completed training providing them with the skills needed to administer Naloxone Hydrochloride, commonly known as Narcan. The medication is used to help save lives by reversing the effects of overdosing on opioids, including street drugs such as heroin, or prescription painkillers such as Oxycontin.
State Troopers are now equipped with the medication, which came to the aid of one recently-trained Trooper on Wednesday who saved the life of a man in Griswold who was experiencing an overdose on an opiate-based narcotic. The Governor is congratulating Trooper Steven Gardner for his quick, life-saving action.
"We must continue to do everything in our power to combat drug abuse and remove every potential barrier to Narcan use," said Governor Malloy. "Earlier this year, I signed legislation granting civil and criminal liability protection to bystanders who administer Narcan in good faith to someone who has overdosed. Training and equipping our Troopers, Police Officers, Firefighters and other first responders with Narcan is the next common-sense step in our efforts to reduce overdoses resulting from heroin and prescription drug overdoses. The need for this action was demonstrated just yesterday, when a State Trooper administered this medication in Griswold, saving a man's life. I want to thank Trooper Gardner for his quick action and dedication to public safety."
The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) also recently provided training classes on the administration of this medication to local fire and police departments across the state.
Opioid overdoses are a rising public health concern. In Connecticut, on average, one person dies every day from an opioid overdose. Narcan can reverse an opioid overdose in a few minutes. First responders are frequently first on the scene of an overdose. The ability to administer Narcan while waiting for emergency medical services may be critical in saving a life.
"The Connecticut State Police and our fellow first responders experience first-hand the devastating effects of illicit drugs on individuals and families, and now, we can do something about it," said DESPP Commissioner Dora B. Schriro. "This initiative gives State Troopers and others on the front line the tools and training to help prevent drug overdoses and save lives."
The effort to provide State Troopers with Narcan has been a collaborative task between the Governor's Office and several state agencies including DESPP, the state Department of Public Health (DPH), the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and the state Department of Correction (DOC).
Connecticut has been actively involved in efforts to combat deaths from overdoses, including rapidly linking opiate addicted individuals to medication-assisted treatment like Methadone, redoubling efforts to educate the public on the dangers of prescription drugs and heroin, and implementing widespread drug take-back days and prescription drug drop boxes to safely dispose of unneeded medication.
"I am grateful that the strong partnerships of Connecticut's state agencies have come through again to provide this additional safety net for those struggling with addiction" said DMHAS Commissioner Pat Rehmer. "I am continually impressed by our state's commitment to addressing addiction and promoting recovery."
"Equipping first responders with Narcan is another progressive step towards stemming this public health crisis," said DPH Commissioner Jewel Mullen. "An opioid overdose that is stopped by a State Trooper intervening with Narcan may be the beginning of a path to addiction treatment and recovery."
In May, Governor Malloy signed into law Public Act 14-61 , authorizing anyone to administer an opioid antagonist such as Narcan to a person he or she believes, in good faith, is experiencing an opioid-related drug overdose. Under prior law, only licensed health care practitioners were allowed to administer the medication without being civilly or criminally liable for the action.
In October 2012, Governor Malloy signed Public Act 12-159 , allowing prescribers to provide Narcan prescriptions to individuals in close contact with a person struggling with opioid addiction.
###
For Immediate Release: October 30, 2014 Contact: Contact: Samaia Hernandez Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Contact: Scott DeVico Department of Emergency Services - Public Protection [email protected] 860-685-8246 (office) 203-525-6959 (cell)
Contact: Mary Kate Mason Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services [email protected] 860-418-6839 (office) 860-985-2120 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 30, 2014
FRIDAY: GOV. MALLOY MAKES MAJOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCEMENT IN DANBURY; MAKES STATEWIDE SCHOOL SECURITY ANNOUNCEMENT; WELCOMES TRICK-OR-TREATERS TO GOVERNOR'S RESIDENCE
(HARTFORD, CT) - On Friday morning, Governor Dannel P. Malloy will hold a news conference in Danbury to make a major economic development and job growth announcement. He will be joined by Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, Mayor Mark Boughton, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Catherine Smith, business leaders, and other state and local officials.
In the afternoon, Governor Malloy will hold a news conference at Manchester High School to make a major statewide announcement regarding school security. He will be joined by state and local officials and education leaders.
In the evening, Governor Malloy and First Lady Cathy Malloy will welcome trick-or-treaters to the Governor's Residence in Hartford in celebration of Halloween.
WHO : Governor Malloy, Congresswoman Esty, Mayor Boughton, business leaders, state and local officials WHAT : Governor Malloy makes major economic development and job growth announcement WHEN : Friday, October 31, 2014; 11:00 a.m. WHERE : Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce; 39 West Street, Danbury
------
WHO : Governor Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy holds news conference to make statewide school security announcement WHEN : Friday, October 31, 2014; 2:30 p.m. WHERE : Manchester High School, Room 293; 134 East Middle Turnpike, Manchester
------
WHO : Governor Malloy, First Lady Malloy WHAT : Governor Malloy and First Lady Malloy welcome trick-or-treaters to the Governor's Residence WHEN : Friday, October 31, 2014; 5:30 p.m. WHERE : Governor's Residence; 990 Prospect Avenue, Hartford
###
For Immediate Release: October 30, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 31, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: PRAXAIR BUILDING NEW WORLD HEADQUARTERS IN DANBURY Global Leader Will Invest $65 Million in New Headquarters and Add New Jobs in Connecticut
(DANBURY, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that Praxair, Inc., a global leader in industrial gases and applications, will maintain its world headquarters in Danbury and invest approximately $65 million to build a new 100,000 square-foot corporate facility. The company will retain 535 positions statewide, and is incented to grow up to 120 new jobs over the next five years.
"We compete to attract and retain globally recognized corporations like Praxair at every opportunity because of the direct and indirect benefits they bring to Connecticut's economy, and because their presence enhances Connecticut's reputation around the world as a great place for these companies to call home," Governor Malloy said. "Today, we are proud to announce another partnership with an innovation-driven industry leader that knows first-hand the extraordinary value of being in Connecticut: a highly skilled and productive workforce, world-class quality of life, and business-friendly environment. We look forward to the coming years of the company's presence here in Connecticut."
A Fortune 250 company holding some 4,000 patents, Praxair employs more than 27,000 people and operates in 50 countries, supplying atmospheric, process, and specialty gases as well as high-performance coatings and related services to a wide range of industries including metals, health care, food and beverage, energy, aerospace, chemicals, electronics, manufacturing, and others.
"We undertook an extensive evaluation and ultimately concluded that the State of Connecticut and the City of Danbury continue to be the right location for our global headquarters," Praxair Chairman and CEO Steve Angel said. "We appreciate Governor Malloy's and Mayor Boughton's leadership and their commitment to Praxair and our employees."
Connecticut was competing with proposals from both New York and Texas.
"We are excited to see that Praxair has chosen to remain in Danbury," Mayor Boughton said. "Praxair has a long history of community involvement through its Global Giving Program. Their commitment to our city to add jobs will help us maintain our community as a statewide leader in job growth and economic development."
"I am delighted that Praxair has chosen to build its new state-of-the art world headquarters in Danbury," Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty said. "I am proud to have worked with Praxair, one of Danbury's largest employers, to support high paying jobs and cutting-edge technology. Today's announcement is a testament to our state's highly- skilled, educated workforce, as well as to effective partnerships with state and local government. I applaud the leadership of Governor Malloy, Mayor Boughton, Commissioner Smith, and the team at Praxair. We should celebrate this major investment in the future of the City of Danbury and the state of Connecticut."
The state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is supporting the Praxair project with a comprehensive package, including a $10 million forgivable loan. Praxair will also be eligible for up to $20 million in tax credits through the state's Urban and Industrial Sites Reinvestment (URA) Tax Credit Program, as well as up to $2.5 million in Sales and Use Tax Exemptions (subject to approval from Connecticut Innovations).
###
For Immediate Release: October 31, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Contact: Jim Watson Department of Economic and Community Development [email protected] 860-270-8182 (office) 860-306-3737 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 31, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: STATE'S LONG-TERM DEBT FOR TEACHERS' PENSIONS CUT BY $325 MILLION OVER LAST TWO YEARS
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that the state's long-term debt for teachers' pensions was cut by $325 million over the last two years, according to a newly released report from Connecticut Teachers' Retirement Board.
"From day one, we've made tackling the state's long-term obligations in a sensible way a priority," Governor Malloy said. "While there's more work to do, we are making progress with cutting nearly $12 billion out of our long-term debt. Our actions, together with the Treasurer's investment strategy, are putting us on the path to get these obligations under control."
The report shows the Teachers' Retirement Pension System has made notable improvements since 2012: o The funded ratio, the amount of assets available to cover liabilities, reached 59% this year - an increase of 3.8% from 2012 - while the actuarial value of assets increased $1.8 billion over the two years covered by the report. o The pension's unfunded liability decreased by $325 million. o Other Postemployment Benefits (OPEB) liability for retired teachers decreased from $3 billion to $2.4 billion. This decrease is the result of pharmacy plan savings and overall plan management.
"This level of growth is due to Governor Malloy's ongoing commitment to fully fund our pension commitments as well as the solid investments made by Treasurer Denise Nappier," OPM Secretary Benjamin Barnes said. "There is more work to be done, but this report shows that promises are being kept and Connecticut is heading in the right direction."
This year's valuation also complies with new GAAP rules intended to allow better comparisons between pension funds in different jurisdictions by requiring more uniform actuarial assumptions. Under this "GASB 67" valuation, the Teachers' Retirement System is funded at 60%.
###
For Immediate Release: October 31, 2014 Contact: David Bednarz Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7315 (office) 860-770-9792 (cell)
Contact: Gian Carl-Casa Office of Policy and Management [email protected] 860-418-6362 (office) 860-478-1756 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 31, 2014
GOV. MALLOY ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL FUNDING TO MAKE SCHOOLS SAFER $22 Million Will Improve Security at 445 Public - Private Schools
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that an additional 380 public schools and 65 private and religious schools will receive funds as part of the School Security Grant Program. An additional $22 million in state funding will be used to reimburse municipalities for a portion of the costs associated with security infrastructure improvements at 445 schools .
"I was proud to make additional funds available last year to support security improvements at every district that applied to the School Security Grant Program. With this latest expansion, we're also including state-run schools that were not previously funded as well as private and religious schools," said Governor Dannel P. Malloy. "We want our schools - both private and public - to make their institutions as safe as possible. These additional funds will allow us to continue to get resources out to communities that need to modernize their school security infrastructure to keep students safe."
With this additional round, the state has made a total of $43 million available for school security upgrades at over a thousand Connecticut schools. The program was originally created as part of the historic 2013 legislation on gun violence prevention, mental health and school safety .
"One of the most important things we can do for Connecticut's future is strengthen our education system," said Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman. "Historic investments in our public schools, universal pre-K, initiatives to make college more affordable-all are keys to producing a talented workforce and building a thriving economy. Governor Malloy's leadership on school safety and anti-violence initiatives is another indication of this administration's tireless commitment to our schools, teachers, and students."
The matching-grant award program is administered by the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). State funding is used to reimburse a portion of the costs associated with school security infrastructure improvements.
The program was expanded this year to include all public schools, including technical and inter-district magnet schools, and private schools. The program was also expanded the security infrastructure eligible for reimbursement to include real time interoperable communications and multimedia sharing infrastructure. As under existing law, eligible infrastructure also includes the installation of surveillance cameras, penetration resistant vestibules, ballistic glass, solid core doors, double-door access, computer-controlled electronic locks, entry door buzzer systems, scan card systems, panic alarms, and other systems.
"Creating safe learning environments where our students can grow and thrive is one of our most fundamental obligations. These security enhancements help our local communities modernize their facilities without compromising the welcoming, positive climates of their schools," said Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor. "We are grateful for the Governor's leadership on the issue of school security and for the General Assembly's sustained support."
"Public safety will always be a core function of our government, especially when it comes to our children's safety and security," said Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) Commissioner Dora B. Schriro. "This program is critical to Connecticut. It helps to strengthen our schools, public and private alike, enhancing the safety of students and faculty and making our educational systems more resilient statewide."
Earlier this year, the School Security Infrastructure Council (SSIC) released updated security standards that require a more comprehensive and uniform consideration of school security measures to help make schools safe. The SSIC standards, which apply to all schools seeking state financial assistance for new construction or substantial renovation, became effective July 1 of this year.
Department of Administrative Services Commissioner Donald DeFronzo, who chaired the SSIC, commented: "With this new grant round, we are continuing the State's commitment to making the necessary improvements in this area and our work on the infrastructure council should inform the efforts of the school districts as they address their priorities for improvements and adopt best practices for facilities' security."
"If children and the professionals who educate them do not feel safe, welcome and secure in our schools, then they will not be able to focus on what matters most-the day's lessons," said AFT Connecticut President Melodie Peters. "Our students are the reason we do what we do every day and these investments will go a long way to support the opportunity for a great education they all deserve. On behalf of the teachers, paraprofessionals and school employees across the state in AFT Connecticut, I extend our appreciation to the Malloy-Wyman Administration for their commitment to safer schools."
"The Church is as concerned as anyone for the safety of all our children, including those in our Catholic schools. We are pleased that the School Security Grant Program applies to our students and we are grateful to participate in this legislative effort," said Michael C. Culhane, Executive Director of the Connecticut Catholic Public Affairs Conference.
On behalf of the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut (JFACT), Chairman Robert Lesser and Executive Director Bob Fishman stated, "We are very pleased that three of our Jewish day schools are recipients of this very critical school security grant program. We thank Governor Malloy and his staff for their leadership and the bipartisan General Assembly who voted for the funding and asked important questions at public hearings. We were very happy to collaborate with the Catholic schools to bring this effort to a very successful result."
"Almost from the moment that the tragedy in Newtown occurred, the Governor and the Legislature have made improving the safety and security of our students, teachers and others who work in our schools a major priority," said Dr. Joseph J. Cirasuolo, Executive Director of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS). "This latest action on the part of the Governor is consistent with this ongoing effort. The CT Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) is grateful to the Governor and other state leaders for their continued commitment to making our schools as safe and secure as they can be."
"The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education appreciates the continued State commitment to support the ongoing efforts of local and regional school boards to enhance school security," said Patrice McCarthy, Deputy Director and General Counsel to the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE).
Dr. Karissa L. Niehoff, Executive Director of the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) states: "The Connecticut Association of Schools is once again impressed and so appreciative of the State's ongoing effort to support schools in the area of school safety and security. Grant programs such as this make a tremendous difference, especially at a time when fiscal resources in school districts are tight. The State is sending a clear message through this gesture that the safety of children in our schools is a priority."
"As school business managers, we keenly recognize the fiscal reality of security enhancements. The Connecticut Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) greatly appreciates the Governor's support of this important effort with the allocation of additional security grants. We are committed to the safety and well-being of Connecticut's students. These funds will allow schools to provide even greater security," states Tashie Rosen, CASBO President and Branford Public Schools' Chief Financial Officer.
** Download : Today's list of school security grants
###
For Immediate Release: October 31, 2014 Contact: Samaia Hernandez Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7314 (office) 860-770-8298 (cell)
Contact: Kelly Donnelly Connecticut State Department of Education [email protected] 860-713-6525 (office) 860-983-1550 (cell)
Contact: Scott DeVico Department of Emergency Services - Public Protection [email protected] 860-685-8246 (office) 203-525-6959 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy
October 31, 2014
GOV. MALLOY: UBS COMMITS TO CONNECTICUT THROUGH 2021
(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced UBS and the state have amended their partnership agreement, re-affirming UBS's commitment to the state through 2021.
"This extended agreement clears up any doubt about the company's intentions in Connecticut and makes sense for UBS, Stamford and the entire state, especially given how important the financial services sector is to the state and local economies," said Governor Malloy. "UBS has been a valued employer in a high-profile industry and a good corporate citizen in the state for many years, and that's why maintaining this public-private partnership should be a top priority. Today's announcement is about retaining quality jobs for Connecticut and reaffirming the state's reputation as a leader in financial services."
The amended partnership agreement with the state will extend the timeframe, incenting UBS to remain in the state until 2021 with no further financial outlay on the part of the state.
"We appreciate our partnership with Governor Malloy and the State of Connecticut and it remains an important market for UBS," said Kathleen Lynch, COO, UBS Group Americas. "For more than a decade, UBS and our employees have been active members in communities from Stamford to Hartford, and we are pleased to continue our collaboration with this great state."
Under the terms of the original loan from the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), the company received $20 million which was fully forgivable if the company maintained 2,000 jobs for five years. In the extended agreement, the same $20 million has the potential to be fully forgivable if the company continues to retain 2,000 jobs, with loan forgiveness based on the number of jobs retained in the state each year through 2021. At the end of each year between now and 2021, a job audit will determine the level of employment from which DECD will determine what percentage of forgiveness will be earned that year. If the company fails to meet the minimum employment obligation in any year, the related loan portion amount will be due and payable along with penalty of 7.5%.
"The new formula is a win-win proposition. It provides incentives for the company to retain employees in the state, while requiring repayment of a portion of the loan each year should jobs decline," said DECD Commissioner Catherine Smith.
UBS, a leading global bank and wealth manager based in Switzerland, established offices in Stamford more than a decade ago. As one of larger financial services firms in the state, UBS helps to anchor the strong financial services cluster in Connecticut. As of 2014, the insurance and financial services sector employed 111,600, 7% of Connecticut's total employment. Annual wages are 144% higher than the average wage in the state and the jobs making them particularly valuable to retain in the state. ### For Immediate Release: October 31, 2014 Contact: Andrew Doba Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy [email protected] 860-524-7308 (office) 860-770-8090 (cell) Contact: Jim Watson Department of Economic and Community Development [email protected] 860-270-8182 (office) 860-306-3737 (cell)
Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy