Month: January 2024

GOVERNOR LAMONT ANNOUNCES $12.1 MILLION IN SMALL CITIES GRANTS AWARDED TO EIGHT MUNICIPALITIES TO MODERNIZE AND REHABILITATE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Housing Commissioner Seila-Mosquera Bruno today announced that the Connecticut Department of Housing is awarding $12.1 million in grants to eight municipalities for upgrades that will modernize and rehabilitate housing for low and moderate-income individuals, as well as community infrastructure.

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The grants are being awarded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Small Cities program, which is administered by the Connecticut Department of Housing with funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Eligible projects are required to be in a municipality with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents.

“These grants go a long way in improving neighborhoods so that we can make our communities more attractive and encourage economic growth for the benefit of all our residents,” Governor Lamont said. “I thank Connecticut’s Congressional delegation and the Biden administration for securing this funding for our state’s smaller communities.”

“These awards will help the quality of life for Connecticut residents in our state-sponsored housing portfolio,” Commissioner Mosquera-Bruno said. “These properties serve households with some of the greatest needs. The Connecticut Department of Housing and the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority continue working with the intent to address our portfolio while leveraging the CDBG Small Cities funding. These federal funds give us flexibility, allowing us to assist municipalities while leveraging different resources.”

The recipients of this round of CDBG Small Cities program grants are as follows:

  • Jewett City – Improvements for Wastewater Treatment Plant ($600,000): The proposed program is an infrastructure project that will provide funding to perform flood control measures at the Jewett City Wastewater Treatment Plant. A concrete wall along the Quinebaug River will be constructed and the elevation of the access road will be raised. This project is of major concern to the citizens of Jewett City because in 2010 the facility was nearly lost to flooding that occurred due to torrential rains where over 13 inches of rain fell within 30 hours. During that time, the river water breached its banks and encroached onto the grounds of the plant to a depth of four to six feet in areas abutting the buildings. The flood control wall will alleviate any such future hazard.
  • Morris – East Street Housing ($1,000,000): This includes the design and building of infrastructure for the proposed affordable housing project. The nature of East Street Housing is to provide affordable housing to people in the Morris and surrounding area in search of a better quality of living and avoid having to relocate and move to another location to find adequate, affordable living accommodations proposed affordable housing project.
  • Rocky Hill – Rehabilitation of 36 Willow Road ($2,000,000): The renovations include replacing the roofing materials on seven of the nine buildings; replacing rotted rake and fascia materials on all buildings; upgrading the existing handicap units; installing walk-in showers in all remaining units; installing new windows in all units and the community building; repairing fire alarms; replacing exhaust fans; installing new flooring; and making site improvements, including paving, creation of additional handicap parking, and pavement markings.
  • Scotland – Town Hall ADA Improvements ($1,500,000): The focus of the renovations will be on the removal of architectural barriers to accessing the building and providing access to and within the building at all levels. Renovations will include immediate and urgent repairs including roof and truss repairs, and replacement of damaged siding, sills, and exterior enclosures, including windows and doors. This also includes removal of environmental hazards, including lead-based paint, asbestos, and mold, as well as the repair and repainting of fire escape structures. Included in the renovations will be the addition of an elevator to allow ADA access to all levels and offices within the town hall. ADA renovations will also address repairs to the entry ramp and stairs, railings, bathrooms, doors, and hallway widths, as well as dedicated handicap parking at the base of the elevator without having to use the state highway for wheelchair access. A new parking area will be constructed in the gravel parking and maintenance access around the building.
  • Vernon – Grove Court and Grove Court Extension Renovations ($1,000,000): The scope of work consists of asphalt roof replacement on all buildings. New seamless white aluminum gutters with leaf screens and downspouts will also be installed to divert the water away from the building’s foundation. Asbestos abatement will also be performed in all buildings. Additional work includes upgrades to the existing ADA units for current compliance and renovation of six units total to achieve the required 10% compliance for ADA accommodations. The community room laundry and bathrooms are also scheduled to be renovated to meet current ADA compliance design requirements.
  • Wethersfield – Renovations at Harvey Fuller Senior Housing ($2,000,000): This scope includes abatement of asbestos in mastic, where needed; repairing the building’s deteriorated slab and rusted piping in slabs; installing new flooring throughout; replacing bathroom sinks, tub/showers, exhaust fans, ceiling lights and grab bars; replace ductless heat pumps at each apartment; and installation of a generator at the community building. It also includes adding alternates when bidding for the installation of a ductless heat pump at the community building, replacing bath fixtures in the community building, and unit pricing for replacing kitchen exhaust fans throughout the units.
  • Windham – Improvements At Father Honan Terrace ($2,000,000): This scope includes renovating all unit kitchens and bathrooms including low flow fixtures, HE toilets, Energy Star appliances, and additional ADA upgrades to the existing ADA units; Community Room ADA upgrades to the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and doors; interior and exterior LED lighting upgrades; replacing interior doors and hardware; additional attic insulation; upgrades to the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replacement of heat pumps; installation of a backup generator; upgrades to the call for aid system; interior painting; and water heater replacements.
  • Windsor – Shad Run Terrace Housing Modernization ($2,000,000): The renovations include the installation of new energy-efficient windows; installation of new energy-efficient exterior doors and hardware; replacement of storm and screen doors; installation of new vinyl siding; replacement of asphalt shingle roofing and gutters system; and unit PTAC systems.

Additional information about the CDBG Small Cities program is available online at portal.ct.gov/DOH/DOH/Programs/Small-Cities-Program.

Bridgeport News: North Avenue Crash UPDATE

#Bridgeport CT– At approximately 6:44pm the Bridgeport Emergency Operation Center received several calls for a motor vehicle crash involving a vehicle crashing into a parked tractor trailer with airbags deployed. The Bridgeport Fire Department and AMR responded to the scene along with Bridgeport Police Officers to render aid. A preliminary investigation confirmed a 2002 tan Acura MDX traveling westbound on North Avenue between Remer Street and Wells Street crashed into the rear of a parked tractor trailer. The Acura was occupied by two males and the operator fled the scene on foot prior to emergency responders arriving. The passenger was seriously injured, and the fire department was forced to remove several sections of the vehicle to access the injured passenger and provide medical treatment to him. He was transported to Saint Vincent’s Hospital for injuries sustained during the accident.

This accident was investigated by the Bridgeport Police Serious Crash Team along with the Southern Fairfield County Traffic Unit from the Fairfield Police Department.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bridgeport Police Department Traffic Division, Officer Andrew Orum, at (203) 576-7640, Andrew.Orum@bridgeportct.gov or the Bridgeport Police Department Tips Hotline at 203-576-TIPS.

Fairfield School Employee Arrested On Child Pornography

On November 13, 2023, the Fairfield Police Department was notified by the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes Unit of a tip they received involving the potential possession of child pornography within the Town of Fairfield.

The Fairfield Police Department Investigative Division conducted an exhaustive investigation, including numerous search and seizure warrants, which led them to develop Peter Wheeler, Jr. (DOB 01/30/2000) of Fairfield, CT as a potential suspect.

The investigation also revealed that Wheeler was an employee of the Fairfield Public School system. The Fairfield Public School administration was notified once this information was confirmed earlier this month. Wheeler was removed from having any further interactions with students and staff immediately and not permitted into any buildings.

On January 11, 2024, a Search and Seizure Warrant was executed at Wheeler’s Fairfield, CT home, and several digital devices were seized and subsequently examined following the execution of additional Search and Seizure warrants. The examination of these devices revealed evidence supporting a charge of possession of child pornography.

Wheeler has been cooperative throughout the entire investigation.

On January 23, 2024, Peter Wheeler, Jr. (DOB 01/30/2000) of Fairfield, CT was arrested and charged with Possession of Child Pornography 1st Degree in violation of C.G.S. 53a-196d. He was issued a court appearance date of February 6, 2024, at Bridgeport Superior Court and is currently being held on a $250,000 court-set bond.

“The safety and well-being of our residents, especially our children, is our top priority. The Fairfield Police Department is committed to working tirelessly to investigate and address any actions that threaten the safety of our community, particularly those involving individuals in positions of trust. We appreciate the collaboration with the Fairfield Public Schools and our law enforcement partners in this matter and are committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency.” – Chief Robert Kalamaras

Bridgeport Police Department Regional Auto Theft Task Force, Shelton Police, and Connecticut State Police Gang Unit Make 3 Arrests

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On January 19, 2024, the Bridgeport Police Department’s Regional Auto Theft Task Force, Shelton Police Department, and Connecticut State Police Gang Unit conducted a joint investigation into several robberies occurring in Fairfield County.  Law Enforcement received specific information that a vehicle recently used in an armed robbery in Shelton Connecticut was now within the 2000 block of Boston Avenue in Bridgeport, Connecticut. 

Police Officers attempted a motor vehicle stop on Boston Avenue at which time the vehicle fled the scene traveling northbound onto Weber Avenue.  Police pursued the vehicle to North Summerfield Avenue where it became disabled and eventually came to a stop.  At least three occupants fled the scene on foot but where quickly apprehended by responding officers.  A loaded Smith and Wesson .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun was recovered.  That firearm had an obliterated serial number. 

During the course of this investigation, it was determined that these suspects were in Bridgeport Connecticut planning to commit a robbery at the Bank of America located at 2091 Boston Avenue. Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The three suspects were placed under arrest, transported to the Bridgeport Police Department, and charged with the following:

50-year-old Michael Stinson of Bridgeport Connecticut (Convicted Felon):

Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in the 1st Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Illegal Alteration of a Firearm (obliterated serial number), Criminal Trespass in the 3rd Degree, Assault on a Public Safety Officer, Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree, Interfering with a Police Officer, Illegal Possession of a Weapon in a Motor Vehicle, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Engaging Police in Pursuit.  Bond is $100,000.  Stinson, who is currently on parole, was remanded to custody.

35-year-old Angel Filomino-Rodriguez of Bridgeport Connecticut (Convicted Felon):

Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in the 1st Degree, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Illegal Alteration of a Firearm (obliterated serial number), Criminal Trespass in the 3rd Degree, Assault on a Public Safety Officer, Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree, Interfering with a Police Officer, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Illegal Possession of a Weapon in a Motor Vehicle, and Engaging Police in Pursuit. Bond is $100,000.

18-year-old Elizer DeJesus of Bridgeport Connecticut:

Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in the 1st Degree, Illegal Alteration of a Firearm (obliterated serial number), Criminal Trespass in the 3rd Degree, Assault on a Public Safety Officer, Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree, Interfering with a Police Officer, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Illegal Possession of a Weapon in a Motor Vehicle, and Engaging Police in Pursuit. Bond is $75,000.

Bridgeport News: Fire On Lenox Ave

Firefighters were called to a two-family house fire in the 300 block of Lenox Avenue. Viewer Joel Gonzalez said that normally there are a lot of cars parked there but not today. Fire Chief Edwards confirmed everyone made it safely. A second alarm was sounded due to the cold temperatures to bring in more resources and personnel to the scene. Firefighters had the bulk of the fire out within a half hour. There were no reported injuries.

Bridgeport News: Fire At Old Harding High School

2024-11-21@3:04pm–#Bridgeport CT– Firefighters received calls of black smoke coming from the old Harding High School in the 1700 block of Central Avenue. The smoke column could be seen from I-95 and surrounding areas. Firefighters arrived and found an active fire and called for a second alarm which brought additional firefighters and resources to the scene. Despite the frigid temperatures the firefighters had the bulk of the fire under control within a half hour. I asked acting Fire Chief Edwards if it was possible to determine the cause, if possibly squatters trying to keep warm and he said it was too early to determine, but he was confident the fire marshal would determine the cause. There were no reported injuries.

MURPHY, COLLEAGUES TO INTRODUCE RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF U.S. SOCCER’S BID FOR THE 2027 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and other members of Congress on Thursday announced that they will introduce a bipartisan, bicameral concurrent resolution in support of the United States Soccer Federation’s bid for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which would be hosted jointly by the United States and Mexico. The full text of the Senate Concurrent Resolution can be read here. The full text of the House Concurrent Resolution can be read here. 

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Murphy is leading the resolution along with U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.). U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-Ill.-16), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.-2), Don Bacon (R-Neb.-2), and Kathy Castor (D-Fla.-14), are also leading the resolution from the side of the House of Representatives. The resolution highlights the New Heights Bid Committee’s efforts to bring the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup to the United States and Mexico and the positive impact hosting the tournament would have on the United States.

“Women’s soccer is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and no country is better positioned to showcase the sport than the United States,” said the members in a joint statement. “The Women’s FIFA World Cup is poised to break attendance records, generate economic growth and tourism, and lead to further development in women’s soccer and youth sports. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a plethora of potential host cities, holding the tournament in the United States would set a new standard for quality and security. We look forward to working with the White House, relevant federal agencies, and our state and local partners to support the efforts of the U.S. Soccer Federation to bring the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup to the United States.”


“We are incredibly thankful for the support from Congress for the U.S. Soccer’s New Heights Bid to bring the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup to the United States and Mexico. Women’s soccer has seen increased investments and groundbreaking achievements in revenue, viewership, and participation across the globe. Our joint bid not only promises to set attendance and financial records but also underscores our commitment to gender equality by hosting back-to-back Men’s and Women’s World Cups. The financial success we can generate by hosting the Women’s World Cup will also have an incredible impact on women’s soccer across the globe. Our vision is to have the proceeds garnered from the tournament thoughtfully distributed to every Federation, thus propelling the advancement of the women’s game and fostering a sustained impact on the growth and development of women’s soccer. We are confident the United States and Mexico can host the largest women’s sporting event in history, fostering international goodwill, and inspiring young players worldwide and showcasing limitless possibilities in women’s soccer,” said U.S. Soccer Federation President Cindy Parlow Cone.


Soccer remains one of the most popular sports in the world and in the United States, and the women’s game continues to see exponential growth. The FIFA Women’s World Cup is an international soccer competition featuring the Fédération Internationale de Football Association’s (FIFA) women’s national teams. The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) is the most successful Women’s National Team in the World, winning four Women’s World Cups in 1991, 1999, 2015, and 2019. The United States previously hosted the Women’s World Cup in 1999 and 2003, which are both considered successes and catalysts for increased interest in women’s soccer across North America. 

The Congressional Soccer Caucus is an organization consisting of Members of Congress to promote, educate, and raise awareness on issues both domestic and international pertaining to sport. The Soccer Caucus coordinates a variety of briefings and events focused on creating awareness of how sports like soccer can be leveraged to transform communities and ensure that children reach their full potential.

In 2018, the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives agreed to a resolution in support of the U.S. Soccer Federation’s successful bid for the upcoming 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

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