Connecticut House Bill HB05401

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/19
• Refer: 1/16/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Reimbursement To The Town Of Wallingford For The Extension Of Municipal Water Service.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05401 would amend existing statutes concerning the funding mechanisms for municipal water service expansions. By allocating state funds to reimburse local costs, the bill emphasizes the role of state support in facilitating public utility projects, particularly in smaller towns that may face financial constraints. It reflects an understanding of the importance of providing adequate water services while also fostering coordination between local and state agencies.

Summary

House Bill 05401, introduced by Representative Candelora, aims to provide reimbursement to the town of Wallingford for costs associated with the extension of municipal water services. The proposed legislation specifies that the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management will pay a grant of $176,332 to the town. This reimbursement is intended to cover the expenses incurred while extending water services to five homes located on South Broad Street. The bill is designed to support municipal efforts in improving essential public services clearly under the purview of local governments.

Contention

While the bill appears to have a clear purpose of facilitating water service expansions, it may also raise questions about the state's fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of funding for municipal projects. Potential points of contention could stem from debates over whether the state budget should allocate funds for such specific local needs, particularly when considering other statewide infrastructure projects. Critics may argue for a more global approach to funding public utility needs rather than piecemeal reimbursements that may not address broader systemic issues in water service provision.