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Serving You in the State Legislature
By John S. Kovaleski, Torrington
John S. Kovaleski is State Representative in the 65th District.
Serving in the Connecticut state legislature is a tremendously rewarding experience.
There are many aspects to serving the citizens of the 65th District of Torrington. Of course, there is the policy aspect that calls for debate and passage of new laws. In concert with this, my constituents know that I try to keep them informed of state issues through my newsletter, and through the Cable 5 program, Capitol Connections, which I co-host with Representative Willis.
Another aspect of serving as your state representative is the adoption of the state budget. This past year was a particularly difficult budget session and the next one will be as well. The state budget is a major issue because it has a significant impact on our local property taxes. My job is to make sure Torrington gets its fair share of our state tax dollars flowing back home to reduce your costs for education and city government services. I am pleased to report that in the past two years the City of Torrington received $1.2 million more in state aid that was used to offset increases in our local mill rate.
One of the most important aspects of serving as your state representative is the service provided to the organizations, businesses and citizens in the city. Constituent service is particularly rewarding when I can help people deal with the "system." I have heard from individuals looking for assistance, who too often cannot get through to talk to someone "live and in person." I welcome these calls and generally encourage people to call me at home (482-0006) to raise an issue or inquire about what is happening. These calls have been very diverse. They include such topics as home schooling, bullying, the Middle School, changes in transit bus policies, Social Security, autism, mental health, qualifying for Title 19, aiding veterans with medical appointments, state housing issues, finding lost savings bonds, the state DOT repairing fences, dealing with DMV, mosquitoes, traffic, tax and insurance concerns, job training, getting free cell phones for 911 emergency calls, etc.
In addition, there are calls from City Hall about funding and other pending issues that often require meetings with state officials. There are also inquiries and visits from service organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, the homeless shelter, senior center, etc.
As you can see, the duties of a state representative are varied. However, getting in touch with me is a way you can get through the "system" for assistance. You may not always get the answer you want, but you will hear from me. This part of my job is very enjoyable and, believe me, provides quite an education. Serving the people of the 65th District is an honor and privilege. It is a part-time position with a full-time commitment, and the people of Torrington deserve no less.
I ask for your support and vote on November 5.
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