East Haven State Representative Joe Zullo (R-99) has been selected by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) as a 2021 Legislative Champion and was recognized at CCM’s annual convention at Mohegan Sun on Nov. 30.

Zullo, expressing gratitude to CCM, explained, “I am honored, in just my second term, to have earned CCM’s trust and recognition. I’ve enjoyed working with advocates at CCM to both protect the best interests of local taxpayers and to give our local leaders new and novel tools to lead more efficiently and effectively. I am humbled to have been considered and appreciative of CCM to be receiving this distinction.”

According to CCM, it is “the state’s largest, nonpartisan organization of municipal leaders, representing towns and cities of all sizes from all corners of the state, with 168 member municipalities.” Each year, at its annual convention, which CCM touts as having more than 1,000 attendees, CCM recognizes legislators who have exemplified a commitment to towns and cities in their legislative advocacy.

In an email notifying Zullo of his selection, CCM Director of Public Policy Brian O’Connor explained, “Your support and commitment to towns and cities has truly been outstanding. You have helped build strong and sustainable communities through your legislative advocacy and it is greatly appreciated by municipal leaders throughout the state.”

Zullo explained, “I came to the legislature with a strong municipal background. I’ve supported common sense solutions to help towns and cities reduce costs and keep taxes stable. I’ve also fought to advance initiatives to preserve and expand local control, particularly in the areas of zoning and land use. Strong, vibrant communities are vital to ensuring small businesses and families can get ahead and I’m proud to have partners at CCM that share that perspective.”

Minority Leader Vin Candelora (R-86), who congratulated Zullo, added, “Zullo is both passionate and professional in his role as ranking member on the Planning and Development Commission, where he’s been able to leverage his valuable experience and perspective as a strong voice for local municipalities. I am excited to hear he’s receiving this well-deserved recognition from one of the state’s most respected issue advocacy groups.”

Zullo concluded, “Once again, I’d like to thank CCM for this tremendous honor. I look forward to continuing to work with CCM and other partners across our State to help our municipalities, and all of our State’s residents, to prosper.”