New Housing Law Empowers Windham

December 4, 2025

I hope the winter weather did not cause much trouble earlier this week. Remember to clear ice and snow from your vehicle to prevent it from flying off and causing damage. Drivers can be fined $75 for failing to do so.
 
This week, I would like to showcase why the housing bill we passed in a special session is a big win for Connecticut. Please keep scrolling to read an opinion piece in the Hartford Courant outlining the positives of the legislation.
 
And, we had an in-depth conversation on my weekly radio show where we tackled a bunch of topics including the legacy of the late Rep. Kevin Ryan and upcoming health care enrollment deadlines. You can listen to the show below.

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Dangerous Cold -- Stay Indoors
  • Let's Talk About It: Matt Rupar
  • New Housing Law Is a Big Win for CT
  • Toy Drive For Children In Need

 
 

Dangerous Cold -- Stay Indoors

Due to dangerously frigid weather, the state's severe cold weather protocol is in effect until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9. Temperatures are expected to average 10 – 20 degrees below normal. This is the first time the state has activated the protocol this season.
 
If you need shelter or a warming center, call 2-1-1 or go to 211ct.org to find nearby locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
Click here to learn more
 

Let's Talk About It: Matt Rupar

My co-host Dennis O'Brien and I recently sat down with our producer, Matt Rupar, for another episode of "Let's Talk About It." We covered a wide range of local topics, including:

  • The legacy of the late Rep. Kevin Ryan
  • Upcoming health care enrollment deadlines
  • Matt's new radio show, "Homegrown"
  • Holiday celebrations in Willimantic

We continue to mourn the loss of our dear friend Rep. Kevin Ryan, who represented Eastern Connecticut for 30 years with unwavering dedication. He was a familiar face at local events, a tireless advocate in Hartford, and a national leader in special education policy. Before he passed in November, both Dennis and I had the opportunity to write and share tributes – a small gesture to honor a truly remarkable public servant. 

We also walked through upcoming deadlines for Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and Access Health CT. These enrollment periods are crucial for ensuring families receive the health care coverage they need.

Matt Rupar shared details about his new radio show, "Homegrown," which highlights local musicians and their work – a wonderful platform for showcasing Connecticut's creative talent. You can tune in on WILI 1400 AM & 95.3 FM every Friday from 4:05 p.m. – 5 p.m. and on i98.3 FM every Saturday at midnight.
 
Finally, we promoted two great community events: the holiday light parade extravaganza and tree lighting as well as Small Business Saturday in downtown Windham.

You can hear the full discussion by watching the video below.
 
 

New Housing Law Is a Big Win for CT
During the November special session, we passed new housing legislation that stands to be one of the most impactful bills of 2025. The measure empowers towns like Windham with the tools it needs to plan for responsible, sustainable housing growth by either developing their own strategies or by collaborating with nearby communities. It strengthens local decision-making while helping us address Connecticut’s growing need for accessible housing.

The Hartford Courant recently published an opinion piece highlighting the benefits of the legislation. The article breaks down how we're taking a meaningful step in expanding housing options while ensuring that communities maintain control of their own futures.
Click here to read the article
 

Toy Drive For Children In Need

You are invited to bring joy to children and families in need this holiday season. The Willimantic Police Benevolent Association will host its annual Stuff-a-Cruiser Toy Drive on:

📅 Saturday, December 6
⏰ 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
📍 Stop & Shop, 1391 Main Street, Willimantic

You are encouraged to donate the following items:

  • new, unwrapped toys
  • non-perishable food
  • monetary donations

Your generosity helps make the holidays brighter across our community.