The Connecticut Council Of Small Towns Presents Town Crier Award

Press release from COST:

Jan. 21, 2021

The Connecticut Council of Small Towns (COST), which represents the state’s smaller communities, presented this year’s Town Crier Award to Martin Heft, Acting Undersecretary, Intergovernmental Policy and Planning Division, Office of Policy & Management.

Each year, COST recognizes and honors those individuals who have distinguished themselves as outstanding advocates on behalf of Connecticut’s smaller communities.

“COST is very pleased to present Martin Heft with this award in recognition of his tireless efforts to provide municipalities with critical information on state and federal grants and programs, respond to questions and concerns, and work with us to promote public policies to address issues facing our communities,” said COST President Tom Dunn, Mayor of Wolcott.

“Throughout the pandemic, Martin has been there every step of the way to provide towns with guidance and reassurance, which has been instrumental in helping our towns respond to the needs of their residents and businesses,” Dunn added. “Your efforts are much appreciated.”

“It is truly an honor to be recognized by COST,” Heft stated. “Having been on both sides of government, municipal and state, my experiences have helped shape the way and provide me with a unique perspective and outlook not only with issues of COVID-19, but in my everyday role as Undersecretary.”

Prior to joining state government, Heft was the longtime First Selectman of the Town of Chester. He currently resides in West Hartford, CT.

The Town Crier Award is a replica of town crier bell, which symbolizes the special efforts of honorees to spread the word and make the case for small town issues.

The award was presented at COST’s Town Meeting 2021 which was held virtually.

This press release was produced by COST. The views expressed here are the author's own.