Derby Legislators Meet Residents for Coffee

From the Connecticut General Assembly: The Derby Legislative Delegation, House Republican Leader Themis Klarides, Senator George Logan, State Reps. Linda Gentile and Nicole Klarides-Ditria, kicked off their monthly coffee hours with constituents on Friday at the Valley Diner.

Over thirty residents packed the Valley Diner to hear from their legislators about the issues shaping the 2017 legislative session and to express their concerns and approval of legislative proposals before the General Assembly. The legislators were all in agreement that their primary focus this session was on the state’s budget. Residents asked questions about the state’s healthcare exchange, veteran issues, affordable housing, and the Governor’s budget proposal.

"I enjoyed having an engaging and respectful discussion with residents about the 2017 legislative session," said Rep. Klarides. "Hearing directly from our constituents gives us a better understanding of the impact legislation has on them, their families, and their businesses. I look forward to having more conversations throughout the session especially as we navigate the monumental task of fixing our state budget."

“I want to thank all the residents that attended the coffee hour last week,” said Rep. Klarides-Ditria. “These coffee hours are a great way for residents to have an open and honest conversation about the issues impacting our state and local communities. I encourage those unable to attend this coffee hour to join us next month.”

“It was great to join with my fellow legislators in discussing key issues with area taxpayers,” Sen. Logan said. “I look forward to future discussions in Derby and throughout the Naugatuck Valley. Many thanks to everyone at the Valley Diner.”

“It’s always great to talk with residents of the 104th district about issues important to the community,” Rep.Gentile said. “As a state representative, my job is to advocate on behalf of my constituents and the feedback received at the coffee hour will help me do just that. I want to thank all the residents who shared their thoughts about the legislative session and I encourage anyone who wasn’t at the coffee hour to reach out to me as I am always available to listen to any comments, questions or concerns.”

The Derby lawmakers will be hosting a monthly coffee hour on the third Friday of every month at the Valley Diner from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.

Here is how you can contact the Derby Legislators:

State Rep. Themis Klarides

Themis.Klarides@housegop.ct.gov

(860) 240-8700

State Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria

Nicole.Klarides-Ditria@housegop.ct.gov

(860) 240-8700

State Rep. Linda Gentile

Linda.Gentile@cga.ct.gov

(860) 240-0499

Senator George Logan

George.Logan@cga.ct.gov

1-800-842-1421

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut General Assembly