Municipal leaders applaud the Governor's bold initiatives to dramatically reform education finance, provide significant property tax relief, and embrace smart growth land-use principles.

In addition to a $3 billion increase in state aid for local public education over five years, the Governor also calls for significant new state assistance for responsible growth initiatives, including brownfields remediation, open space acquisition, enhanced funding for regional planning organizations, and increased funding for GIS systems and housing needs.

These initiatives, if collectively enacted, would be a grand slam for towns and cities. We commend the Governor for her leadership.

CCM is still reviewing the details of the Governor's budget to ascertain the full impact on towns and cities.

-- Jim Finley, Executive Director Designate, Connecticut Conference of Municipalities