Updates from Rep. Larry Butler for Feb. 21, 2025

February 21, 2025



 

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First, I want to congratulate the retirement of longtime firefighter Alex Calderon, who served nearly 40 years with the Waterbury Fire Department. 

His last shift was on Jan. 30 driving Engine 11B. 

Congratulations, Alex, and thank you for your service to the city.
 

Severe Weather Protocol

Governor Ned Lamont announced last week that the state’s severe cold weather protocol will be in effect until noon on Saturday, Feb. 22. During this time, temperatures are expected to drop to the single-digits.

While activated, the protocol initiates a series of actions to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold.

Warming centers in Waterbury include the following:

  • St. Vincent De Paul Mission of Waterbury, 114 Benedict St., 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
  • Center for Human Development, Waterbury Hospitality, 690 East Main St. 24 hours for residents of Greater Waterbury area; single adults only; no families.
 

CTDOT Safety Reminder

The CTDOT has issued a safety reminder for all motorists that if you experience a breakdown or emergency on a highway, the safest place to be is inside your vehicle. Please click on the image below to read more.

 
 

Celebrating Black History Month

To see how some of my colleagues and I are celebrating Black History Month, please click on the image below.
 
 

Students: Apply to Join CT Board of Ed

Do you know of a public school student who wants to participate in statewide education policy? If so, please encourage them to apply now to potentially serve on the Connecticut State Board of Education! The selected students, who will soon enter their senior year, will serve a one-year term, beginning July 1. Take a look at the graphic below for application requirements.

The governor will appoint two public school students who will lend an important perspective to deliberations on the State Board of Education. The selected students will not have voting privileges.
 
Click here to learn more and start the application process!

Participants must complete their application, and it must be received by mail or email by Monday, March 17.
 

Free Resources to File Your Taxes

There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.
(photo credit: IRS)

You can use the IRS Direct File Tool, which is a new option for anyone who lived and earned all their income in Connecticut last year.
 
Click here for more information on IRS Direct File Tool 

The federal government is also offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Here are some of the eligibility requirements for VITA:

  • Household income less than $68,000
  • If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
  • No income from a rental property

Waterbury residents can find their nearest location by clicking on the image below.

Book your appointment HERE. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money when filing your taxes!
 

Free Tax Assistance Being Offered By AARP Tax-Aide

The AARP Foundation offers free tax preparation services at the Waterbury Senior Center.

Call 203-574-6746 to schedule an appointment. 

How does AARP's Tax-Aide Program work?

  • AARP's Tax-Aide Program is a partnership between the AARP Foundation and the IRS.
  • Tax-Aide volunteers prepare returns remotely using IRS-provided software.
  • You can work with a volunteer online to finalize your return, file it, and have it sent to you.
  • You can also visit a Tax-Aide site to leave your tax documents with an IRS-certified volunteer. 

Who can use the Tax-Aide Program? 

  • The program provides free tax counseling and preparation services to middle-and low-income taxpayers.
  • Special attention is given to people age 60 and older.

Appointments are required. Please click HERE to read additional information regarding this free tax assistance opportunity with special attention being given to those age 50 and older. 
 

 

Fuel Financial Assistance Available

Eligible Connecticut residents can apply for assistance with gas, electric, oil, or other deliverable fuels. Please Click Here for more information including details on eligibility requirements and application materials.
 

Sincerely,

Larry Butler
State Representative

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