Monroe Legislators Announce Passage of Major Energy Efficiency Improvements

Bill will allow energy efficiency upgrades to Monroe’s public schools

HARTFORD, CT – State Senators Kevin C. Kelly (R-21) and Anthony Musto (D-22) and State Representative DebraLee Hovey (R-112) brought a bill before the Senate that will allow the implementation of a cost saving measure that the people of Monroe overwhelmingly supported in a recent referendum. The town has contracted with Honeywell to upgrade Monroe’s public schools with new energy efficiency equipment and much needed infrastructure improvements. Due to a technical issue, state assistance was required to ensure this plan went through. Senator Musto, Senator Kevin Kelly and Representative DebraLee Hovey worked to ensure unanimous passage of this bill.

“Last month, Monroe voters spoke loud and clear in favor of making our schools more energy efficient,” said Senator Kevin C. Kelly (R-21). “Due to a technical glitch, the town’s decision was temporarily put on hold, but I am encouraged that our state recognized the high level of public support and acted quickly to resolve any obstacles facing these important upgrades. Thanks to the bipartisan and unanimous support for this bill, our community will now reap the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency.”

The Honeywell contract includes various improvements to Monroe’s schools. All schools will receive new exterior and interior door security work. Masuk High School will be converted from oil to natural gas, and Stepney elementary will be receiving a full boiler replacement. All schools will also receive necessary efficiency improvements to lighting, insulation, motors, and temperature control systems.

“Passage of this bill marks an important victory for the will of the people of Monroe. In last month’s referendum, residents of the town overwhelmingly voted for these energy efficiency upgrades, and I am proud that we could help make this happen at the state level,” said Senator Musto. “These critical energy efficiency upgrades and infrastructure improvements will save the town money while ensuring the integrity of Monroe’s schools.”

“Monroe, in its efforts to respond to the community, overlooked the traditional town meeting and immediately moved to a referendum where the will of the people was assessed,” Representative Hovey said. “Unfortunately State requirements are not as flexible, so this legislation provides a fix and prevents the town from being assessed with a penalty. In this economy every penny counts so the assessment of any punitive fee would be a waste, especially when the money can be used somewhere more effectively.”

Now that HB 6672 has passed the General Assembly it will move on to the Governor’s desk for his signature.