New London to send lobbyist to legislature

NEW LONDON, Conn. (AP) — New London is stepping up its lobbying in the legislature as the state looks to cut funding.

The Day of New London reports that Mayor Daryl Justin Finizio has appointed his executive assistant, Zak Leavy, the city's lobbyist.

Finizio says Leavy will take on the new job while continuing as the mayor's assistant. They lobbyist's job is unpaid.

Finizio campaigned on a platform of hiring a lobbyist to represent New London in Hartford, but the position was not funded in the 2012-13 budget.

The mayor said New London is fortunate to be represented in Hartford by an "excellent legislative delegation," but he also will advocate on behalf of New London in Hartford.

He cited the state's difficult finances. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has ordered $170 million in spending cuts to close a deficit.

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Information from: The Day