State Representative Mitch Bolinsky hosted “Coffee & Conversation” at Village Perk Café, 3 Glen Road, on the morning of October 4.

The 8 o’clock autumn air was crisp at the start of the casual public gathering, but that did not deter about a dozen people from coming out to talk with Rep Bolinsky, 106th District state representative in the Connecticut House of Representatives.

Rep Bolinsky spoke to individuals, as well as to the group as a whole, about major issues facing the State of Connecticut and how it is affecting residents locally.

While standing outside the front entrance of the café, waiting for the doors to open, Rep Bolinsky thanked everyone for attending and said he is “incredibly grateful” to serve Newtown, now in his fourth term.

“I’m here to talk about anything and to apologize for it,” he said, while addressing the crowd. “I have hope. Connecticut is the most beautiful state in the country and has the most potential if we can fix our priorities as a state.”

Rep Bolinsky explained that Connecticut residents are the highest taxed people in the region and almost the entire country. He said for the state to change that, it is a matter of prioritization and figuring out how to “control costs while still being compassionate.”

Residents voiced their outrage over the state’s taxes and their feeling of not being heard by other politicians, and Rep Bolinsky said he was in agreement.

“You have to remember, people like me work for you,” Rep Bolinsky added. “The power is yours… I can’t promise I can fix it, but I can start the process.”

Under that sentiment he said that while he cannot guarantee, for example, healthcare coverage by Christmas, there is a lot that can be improved when tackling matters “issue by issue.”

Rep Bolinsky also noted that in the state government, “We need to leverage technology to get this government smarter.”

Midway through the gathering, the Village Perk Café opened, and the group made its way inside the warm, coffee-scented building to further conversations on topics ranging from tolls to health insurance.

For those who were unable to attend the “Coffee & Conversation,” but who have questions or comments related to state government, the public is invited to contact Rep Bolinsky at 800-842-1423 or mitch.bolinsky@housegop.ct.gov.