Conroy: Seymour needs time to pursue state funds for school project

Legislation co-sponsored by state Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, was the subject of a public hearing today by the legislature’s Finance Committee.

Seymour Middle School

The bill (HB 6602) would allow the Town of Seymour to renew its construction loans on the Seymour Middle School project beyond the limits set in state statute.

The extension would allow the town time to receive state funds for the project.



In her testimony the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, Conroy said, “It was brought to my attention at the end of 2012 that the 10-year construction note term for Seymour Middle School will be due on May 1, 2013.
By extending the time for the temporary notes, it will allow the town to apply for state reimbursement of $1.3 million.”

Although construction on the Seymour Middle School project was technically completed in 2002, due to a number of factors and delays, the town was unable to pursue state reimbursement through the Bureau of School Facilities until very recently.
Their internal process could take up to six months and the temporary notes on the construction project mature on May 1 of this year. State statute (C.G.S. Sec. 7-378a) limits the renewal of temporary notes to 10 years from the date of initial issuance.

Without an extension on the terms of the construction note, the town would need to pay about $550,000 on May 1.

Conroy said, “During a time where we have been impacted with several large storms that are affecting our local budgets, Seymour cannot afford a large hit to its budget.”

The legislation awaits a vote by the Finance Committee.

In addition to representing the 105th Assembly District, Conroy is a member of the Seymour Board of Selectmen.

This information is taken from a press release from Conroy’s office.