Representative Perone Applauds Passage of Stormwater Authority Pilot Program Through House
State Rep. Chris Perone
May 30, 2007

Representative Chris Perone (D-Norwalk) helped push through the passage of House Bill No. 6856, "An Act Establishing A Municipal Stormwater Authority Pilot Program" yesterday. The bill, co-sponsored by Rep. Perone, aims to provide relief for the victims of flooding in both the city of Norwalk and in the state by creating a committee to handle relief efforts.

"The city of Norwalk has suffered for more than 20 years due to an antiquated, crumbling storm drain system. It is time that Norwalk have the tools it needs to repair, improve and maintain our city's inadequate storm drain infrastructure."

"Hundreds of people throughout Norwalk were hit hard in the heavy rainstorms that that have occurred over the last several years," Rep. Perone explained. "These citizens have lost personal possessions, family heirlooms, furniture and suffered serious property damage."

According to the language in the bill, the city of Norwalk will be included as one of the four charter towns to receive state funds from the newly-created committee. This bill will also give municipalities the right to apply to the state Department of Public Works for clean water funds.

The bill was passed through the House by a 141-8 margin.

"I am thrilled to see this bill pass through the House of Representatives by such a significant margin," said Rep. Perone. "Flooding does not respect town boundaries, when it floods in Stamford people are affected in Norwalk and vice-versa. This bill goes a long way to help municipalities throughout Connecticut in their ability to recover from flooding caused by heavy rains and snow melt-off."

The bill now awaits action in the Senate.

Rep. Christopher Perone is serving his second term representing the 137th Assembly District of Norwalk. He is Vice Chair of the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee, and is a member of the Education and Transportation Committees.

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