Stratford lost one of its long serving State Representatives over the weekend when Lawrence Miller passed away Saturday evening. He was 78 years of age and survived by his wife, Millie, and children.
Miller's career expands over 4 decades of public service. He was elected to the State House of Representatives District 122 that covers north Stratford and parts of Shelton, and recently Trumbull with changes to the 2012 state legislative redistricting that happens every 10 years, in 1990 and served 14 terms as a state legislator. Prior to his service in the State Capitol, Miller served Stratford in the Town Council from 1977 to 1985, and served on the Planning and Zoning Commission from 1985 to 1989. When Stratford divided the powers of the Stratford Zoning and Planning Commissions, Miller served as the Zoning Chairman from 1989to 1993.
In the State Capitol, Miller served on the House Planning and Development, Transportation and Commerce Committees and served as ranking member of the General Assembly's Select Committee on Housing.
Governor Dannel Malloy ordered flags to be raised as half staff in honor of Miller and stated in a press release, "Whether it was leading the charge to recognize Gustave Whitehead as the first in flight in our nation or advocating to enhance our state's environmental and energy policies, Larry Miller worked in a bipartisan manner to support the interests of his constituents and the citizens of Connecticut."
House Minority Leader Lawrence Cafero also credited Miller for tireless work on housing, environmental issues and economic development legislation as part of his legacy. Cafero paid tribute to Miller writing that Larry Miller was a great friend and colleague who was passionate about his job in the legislature and the issues most dear to him. He was a pleasure to be around. He was passionate about life, about his children and his wife Millie. He is sorely missed."
Photo Credit: Office of Senate Minority Leader, John McKinney.