Milford Lawmakers Talk Taxes, Tolls, GE, and More Over Coffee

Milford residents came out in full force to talk to their state legislators. State Reps. Pam Staneski (R-119) & Charles Ferraro (R-117) hosted a robust “Coffee & Conversation” with interested Milford residents at the Athenian Diner on Saturday morning February 20th, according to a press statement issued by the lawmakers office.

During the hour of coffee and conversation, the Milford duo answered questions and listened to concerns covering a wide range of state and local issues important to the community.

The topics discussed were: the state budget and the newly projected state deficit, the decision by GE to leave Connecticut, the continued loss of state revenue due to people leaving Connecticut, property and income taxes, the drastic state cuts to our most vulnerable populations (especially the disabled and our state’s veterans), the possibility of an increased gas tax and the implementation of tolls, and the worsening problem of Connecticut’s long-term pension debt.

“I appreciate the time everyone took to come out and meet with us to discuss the many issues facing our state, particularly the state of our economy and budget,” Rep. Charles Ferraro said in a statement. “Connecticut is at a major crossroads. We have an opportunity to change direction and make our economy thrive once again.”

Rep. Pam Staneski said in a statement, “People are concerned, almost all expressed dismay about the current condition and direction of our state. The message is clear, we need structural changes to the way we conduct the state’s business.”

The 2016 legislative session began on February 3rd and ends on May 4th and will primarily focus on the state budget which has a projected shortfall for next year of over $507 million and over $4 billion in 2018 and 2019.