Willington explores benefits of Connecticut 'distressed municipality' designation and energy incentives

During old business at the April 8 meeting, Commissioner John Teehan raised the potential financial advantages of Willington being designated a "distressed municipality" by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

Teehan said distressed status can open targeted state support and grant opportunities; he told the committee such benefits can include property tax reimbursement for qualified manufacturing facilities and increased state development grant shares (he cited figures such as up to 65% coverage in distressed areas versus the standard 50% community investment fund). Don Berg and Kathy Demers said such status may also improve eligibility or incentive levels for EV and battery rebates and suggested the committee consult local grant‑seeking staff and the Board of Selectmen for detailed guidance.

The committee also reviewed energy incentive details raised elsewhere in the meeting: an April Green Bank announcement and a separate energy‑storage performance incentive that offers $450 per kilowatt for customers in distressed municipalities. Members discussed CT Green Bank loan rates and rebates; Teehan described his own experience getting low‑interest loans through CT Green Bank for geothermal, solar and batteries and suggested those case studies be included in community outreach.

The committee agreed to postpone deeper analysis until staff can gather specifics from First Selectman staff and experts such as Mike D'Amato, and to return to the topic at a subsequent meeting.