Recovering from Flooding, and more

August 23, 2024


 
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Dear Neighbor,
 
Happy Friday! Last weekend we experienced devastating flooding in Western Connecticut that left businesses destroyed, infrastructure damaged, and two lives tragically lost. I hope that you and your loved ones did not experience the worst of this storm. Today, I want to give you updates on our recovery efforts.

Earlier this week, President Biden approved Governor Lamont's emergency declaration for this extreme flooding, guaranteeing access to personnel and equipment from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The state is also working with local governments, businesses, and individuals to assess the damage and calculate whether the damage threshold qualifies for a major disaster declaration from the federal government, which could provide funding to rebuild and repair damage to public and uninsured private property.

Team Inc. is collecting donations for disaster relief. If you're able, please consider donating here. Please ensure your gift is going to "August 18th FLOOD RELIEF."

Finally, I want to send my best to all of those impacted by these devastating floods, in particular the families of those who lost their lives. Thank you to all of the brave first responders, volunteers, and civilians who took it upon themselves to help their neighbors when they needed it most. Your courage and dedication to your community helped prevent a disastrous storm from causing even more damage.
In this week's eblast, you can learn more about grants from the Women's Business Development Council, everything the Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department is offering in the fall and winter, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.
 
Op-Ed on Utility Rates
I recently wrote an op-ed featured in the CT Mirror titled "CT's utilities are broken." I wrote about the absurdity of a utility provider such as United Illuminating complaining about their profitability when residents are being burdened with skyrocketing electric bills.

After engaging hands-on with United Illuminating to fight their egregious transmission line proposal in Fairfield, I came to the unfortunate conclusion that we have a profoundly broken deregulated grid in Connecticut. I cannot wait to start working on transformational solutions to fix this broken system.

In the meantime, I hope to hear from experts on new paths forward, including Our Power Maine, the organization that brought Maine's grid back under state control, and Vermont's Green Mountain Power, which controls both energy generation (supply) and delivery (demand).

What I also learned after taking on United Illuminating in Fairfield is the power of community advocacy. Together, I believe we can create a system that works for everyone, not just shareholders.

If you have a moment, please take a look at my article to learn more about this issue. I will be sure to stay in touch on any updates.
 
Women's Business Development Council Grants
There are new opportunities for our local small business community. The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) is now accepting grant applications designed to help Connecticut businesses thrive. 
  • Ignite Grant: This grant offers up to $10,000 to women-owned small businesses in Connecticut. It’s a powerful resource to help you grow and scale your business. Applications are open now and close on September 24. 
  • Child Care Business Opportunity Fund: If you own or aspire to start a licensed child care business, you could receive up to $25,000 to support your growth and impact within the community. Applications are open now and close on September 9.  
For more information and to apply, visit the links below: 
 
Hazardous Waste Collection Day
Mark your calendars early: Hazardous Waste Collection Day will be held Saturday, Sept. 28 from 9am-2pm at Veteran's Park (909 Reef Road). This day allows you to get rid of any hazardous waste in your house safely and at no charge. All you have to do is load your car - it will be emptied for you!

Please make sure to read the list of materials that will and will not be accepted!
 
Parks & Rec Fall/Winter Program Brochure
The Fairfield Parks and Recreation Department has put out their fall/winter program brochure! There are so many great upcoming events, including tennis lessons, youth programs, and community events for the whole family. Click here to view everything being offered in our community and learn how to sign up!
 
I'm committed to ensuring your voice is heard. Please don't hesitate to call my office at (860) 240-8585 or email me if there's anything I can do for you. Be sure to follow @LeeperForFairfield on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on everything I'm doing at the Capitol.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Leeper
State Representative
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