Sen. Berthel Applauds State Investments in Oxford, Southbury Training School

State Sen. Eric Berthel (R-Watertown) today applauded state investment in the region through the State Bond Commission’s approval of the following funding:

Town of Oxford: Reallocation of $782,685 in grant-in-aid funding for dredging and debris removal along the Little River and other waterways damaged by recent storm flooding, which will broaden the allowable use of the previous funds that were originally allocated to the town in August.

Southbury Training School: $500,000 in grant-in-aid funding for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning improvements.

On the funding for Little River dredging and debris removal, Sen. Berthel said, “Thank you to the Legislature for authorizing this reallocation, and to the Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for its approval. The Little River experienced unprecedented flooding from last year’s storm, which also damaged many businesses along its floodplain. This funding will allow the river to be appropriately cleared along its banks and beneath the surface to restore its natural flow through our community. While we can never predict natural disasters, this dredging and cleanup will not only restore confidence for the many residents and businesses along its path, but also ensure that residents can continue to enjoy this natural resource.”

Regarding the funding for the Southbury Training School, Sen. Berthel said, “Thank you to the Legislature for authorizing this funding, and to the Bond Commission and Governor Lamont for its approval. Earlier this year, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to keep the facility open to serve its remaining residents. This facility has been home for decades to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, many of whom are now elderly. We must continue to ensure these residents, as well as the staff who assist them, have a healthy environment in which to live and work. This is a quality-of-life issue, and these HVAC improvements will help achieve that goal.”