Appropriations Committee APP Conservation & Development Public Hearing [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a public hearing featuring various speakers who presented testimonies on the need for increased funding and support for programs addressing homelessness, mental health, and the arts in Connecticut. Candice Barrington from the International Festival of Arts and Ideas highlighted the state's support for the festival and its Festival Fellows Program for high school students. Ryan Beach from the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness advocated for a $10 million annual investment in a housing crisis response fund, sharing success stories from flexible assistance programs. Megan Gorman from CMHA Community Mental Health Affiliates emphasized the need for increased funding for nonprofits to address homelessness and mental health issues. Thomas Burr from NAMI Connecticut urged for more appropriations to meet the needs of those affected by mental health and homelessness. Alan Bowie from the Neighborhood Music School requested support for the school, while Adriana Negron from Journey Home discussed the importance of prevention staff in homelessness prevention. A group of theater representatives collectively advocated for continued support for the arts. Several speakers emphasized the critical need for funding across various sectors. Jim Perales from Conteam of Care called for a $155 million increase for nonprofits, particularly for emergency housing programs. Rufus Duran from Connecticut Arts Alliance requested increased funding for the Connecticut Office of the Arts, citing its role in economic activity. Jason Thomas, a student, shared his positive experience with the Neighborhood Music School. Christine Kim from City Seed advocated for restoring full funding for their organization, which supports local farmers. Allison Blaise Wadsworth from the Wadsworth Athenaeum Museum of Art requested continued state investment for educational and community programs. Steven Siegel from the Guard Arts Center emphasized the center's role in the community. The meeting also addressed the urgent need for funding for housing and agricultural support. Jason Patlis from the Maritime Aquarium discussed its economic impact and the importance of maintaining funding. Ella Kennan from the New Connecticut Farmer Alliance requested $300,000 for staff positions to implement a farmland access grant program. Jim Petinelli from Liberty Community Services supported a $123.9 million investment package for homelessness. Sarah Fox from the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness discussed the increasing homelessness crisis, while Jennifer Paradis from the Beth Al Center echoed the need for resources to address the issue. Caitlin Kimball from Sunset Farm reiterated the request for funding for the farmland access grant program. The meeting highlighted the pressing need for funding across various sectors, including housing, arts, education, and environmental justice. Speakers emphasized the challenges faced by low-income households and the importance of maintaining existing funding for programs like the Rental Assistance Program (RAP). Greg Kirschner from the Connecticut Fair Housing Center requested additional funding to combat housing discrimination. Dairy farmers collectively requested $20 million to support the declining dairy industry. Chelsea Ross from the Partnership for Strong Communities reiterated the need for funding to maintain and expand RAP. The meeting concluded with a focus on the urgent need for increased funding and support to address community issues, including homelessness, economic development, and environmental conservation.