Themis Klarides

Talking about this with Vinnie Penn this am. State Rep Kara Rochelle , who has no knowledge of finances somehow thinks she knows better than the independent financial audits and financial experts .

Last night, something troubling happened in Hartford. Without consulting local officials, residents, or any governing body in Ansonia, State Representative Kara Rochelle stood alone on the floor of the Connecticut House of Representatives and attempted to force our city under the control of a state oversight board.

Her actions—taken in the final minutes of the legislative session, without notice, input or discussion with the City—may have stripped Ansonia of the ability to manage its own finances, sending a false message that our city is in crisis when, in fact, we are fiscally stable and moving forward.

It also risks causing a massive tax increase for property owners and loss of state grant funding.

Make no mistake: this was not about financial oversight. It was about politics. And it was about undermining the hard work that our local leaders, city employees, and residents have done to revitalize Ansonia and protect taxpayers, keeping the tax rate as low as possible for the last 12 years.

We take our responsibilities seriously. Ansonia currently holds an AA- bond rating—stronger than many cities our size—and we continue to make strategic investments in infrastructure, public safety, and economic growth. The idea that we need state intervention is simply wrong.

It is deeply disappointing that our own state representative would act against her hometown, behind closed doors, and without a word to the people she was elected to serve. That’s not leadership. That’s an abuse of process.

The Ansonia Republican Town Committee stands united in defending our city’s autonomy and reputation. We call on Rep. Rochelle to publicly explain her actions and answer to the residents of Ansonia—not just in Hartford, but here at home.

We remain committed to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and putting Ansonia first.

Most beautiful day possible to be helping my friend State Rep. Devin Carney knock on doors in Old Saybrook!

Connecticut HRCC