House Republican Press Release

May 3, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Klarides and Sen. Crisco Announce Senate Passage of Derby Downtown Revitalization Bill

HARTFORD – Representative Themis Klarides(R-Derby) and Senator Joe Crisco (D-Woodbridge) today announced that a critical revitalization bill has passed the State Senate. 

The measure allows Derby voters to form a special taxing district to finance infrastructure improvements or provide fire protection, allows the district to issue up to $ 45 million in bonds for the purpose, and allows the district to levy assessments on those who benefit from the improvements.

The Derby provisions are part of HB 5814, An Act Concerning the Bonding Process.

“This is a very significant bill for Derby that both Senator Crisco and I have worked on for some time, and we have both managed to get it through the House and the Senate,” said Representative Klarides.  “This measure will provide the framework and the tools for the Derby downtown to begin its revitalization, and also lets the voters of Derby have a say in how it is done.”

“I want to express my appreciation to all who contributed to the success of this important legislation to the City of Derby, especially Senator Eileen Daily, the co-chair of the Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee,” said Senator Crisco.  “This is an outstanding example of teamwork on the local and state level.  It was also a pleasure working with Representatives Klarides and Linda Gentile.  This effort will help revitalize the downtown area and will benefit the residents of this very deserving city.”

Representative Klarides thanked members of the General Assembly for their critical investment in Derby, notably Finance, Revenue and Bonding Co-Chair Cameron Staples, Ranking Member Richard Belden, as well as Representative Linda Gentile for her help in the House.

The bill will now head to Governor M. Jodi Rell for her signature.