In response to proposed highways tolls in Connecticut, the Danbury City Council took up a resolution last night in opposition to tolling.  Councilman Ben Chianese asked that it go to committee.  He says the true impact of a toll is still unknown.  Chianese added that the plans keep changing and he's not comfortable adopting a resolution without any details.

Governor Ned Lamont, in Danbury to reopen the rest area Monday, was asked about this.  He said there are only two choices to pay for transportation upgrades: bonding or tolls.  Lamont says maybe Danbury City Council wants to borrow more to do that.

The lawmakers at Monday's event, Democratic Representatives Bob Godfrey, Ken Gucker, and Raghib Allie-Brennan and Senator Julie Kushner, said they still oppose tolls.  Legislative leaders have not scheduled a special session on the matter. 

Lamont was asked if tolls come to fruition, where the first gantry would be placed.  He wants to sit down with City officials to discuss that.  He understands the importance of the shopping center and doesn't want to discourage out of state traffic from getting off at exit 3.

But Council President Joe Cavo says tolls will have a damaging effect on drivers, businesses and taxpayers.  He proposed the resolution in hopes of having the legislature and Governor reconsider the idea.  The Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce has already proposed a similar resolution.  The resolution says that highway users would have little knowledge of present or future costs if they are charged according to a system subject to budget vagaries and political processes.