Gary Turco

The legislative session is off to a very busy start, with issues like housing, how we fund education --  special education in particular -- and consumer energy prices at the top of the list.

Those issues were discussed when hosted a coffee hour with state Sen. Rick Lopes and New Britain City Councilors Wilma Barbosa and Lori McAdam at Alvarium Roasting Co. in New Britain on Saturday, Jan. 11.

About 20 people attended the event, during which we discussed legislative priorities and other issues with New Britain and Newington residents.

I cannot overstate how vital these conversations are in helping shape policies we as legislators bring back to Hartford. I do not represent the state legislature. I represent you as your tireless advocate at the Capitol.

If you're unable to attend these events, please reach out to me via email or telephone. I want nothing more than for you to share your comments, questions and/or concerns.

Coalition leaders called on the state to invest $33.5 million for FY26 and in annualized budgets – adjusted for inflation -- going forward to help solve homelessness in Connecticut, channeled into three priorities: homelessness prevention, crisis response and sustainable housing for people experiencing homelessness.

A CT 2024 Point-In-Time Count reported a 13% rise in individuals experiencing homelessness from 2023, with 44% of those being children and those over 55.

Housing is a major priority this legislative session, and I will be working diligently to address the issue, particularly as it affects Newington and New Britain.

A special shout out and thank you to Hy and Sharon Braverman, who now live in West Hartford, for their years serving the community in numerous capacities.

We will miss them in Newington!

Dr. King's unwavering commitment to civil rights reminds us of the power of courage, compassion, and collective action to create meaningful change.

My favorite MLK quote (and there are so many incredible ones) is, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice."

There are two major events taking place in New Britain on Monday, Jan. 20, to honor Dr. King's legacy.

First, the New Britain Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities is honoring Dr. King at 10 a.m. at Roosevelt Campus at 40 Goodwin St. . This event is open to the public. For more information contact the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities at 860-826-3411.

The New Britain Museum of American Art, 56 Lexington St., is partnering with the CT Center for Nonviolence in hosting a free event offering drop-in art activities, interactive drumming, a poetry workshop and dance on Jan. 20 starting at 10:30 a.m.. 

Also, click here for the museum's Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. webpage.
 

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