February 2026

Commissioner's Corner

Dear Legislative Partners,

As the short legislative session kicks into swing, we look forward to working closely with you to improve services for residents, municipalities, and state agencies across Connecticut. Your partnership is essential to ensuring that state government operates efficiently, transparently, and responsively.

For those who may be less familiar with our work, the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) serves as the backbone of state government operations. Our teams support agencies and communities through statewide procurement, school construction grants, IT and digital services, fleet operations, facilities, construction services, human resources, and more. From modernizing technology systems and advancing sustainable purchasing, to administering major capital projects and supporting municipal needs, DAS plays a critical role in delivering the infrastructure and services that allow government to function effectively.

In this edition of DAS Newsline, you’ll see how that work translates into real impact.

We look forward to working together this session to continue improving how government serves the people of Connecticut.

Sincerely,

Michelle Gilman
Commissioner, DAS
michelle.gilman@ct.gov

Supporting HB 5046 on Firefighter and Police Officer Recruitment and Retention 

On February 17, Commissioner Gilman and State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert joined Governor Ned Lamont, Comptroller Sean Scanlon, Representatives Patrick Boyd and Kaitlyn Shak, and public safety partners to highlight the Governor's bill, House Bill 5046, which would create new incentives to strengthen police and firefighter recruitment and retention across Connecticut.

Fire and police professionals from communities statewide attended in support of building and sustaining a strong public safety workforce. The discussion also emphasized the evolving role of the fire service, from emergency response to inspection, investigation, training, leadership, and prevention, all united by the mission of saving lives, protecting property, and reducing risk.

Partnering to Support the Connecticut Business Matchmaker

The State of Connecticut and the Small Business Administration Connecticut District Office are partnering to expand access to real procurement opportunities for small businesses statewide. On March 5, the Connecticut Business Matchmaker will bring together businesses, state agencies, federal buyers, and prime contractors for one-on-one matchmaking, pre-event trainings, and direct pathways to contracts.

Buyer tables are sold out, but supplier tickets are still available. Registration is required (and free) to access the matchmaking portal and prepare for success.

Visit the CT Business Matchmaker website (ctbusinessmatchmaker.com)

Video: SBA and DAS Partner to Support the CT Business Matchmaker (LinkedIn)

Fire Safe CT: Fire Prevention Starts on the Jobsite

As part of the Fire Safe CT initiative launched in 2025, DAS continues to deliver practical, prevention-focused messages that help keep workers and communities safe. The latest message is clear: fire prevention doesn’t start after an emergency — it starts on the jobsite.

Construction environments carry real fire and burn risks, and proactive steps like controlling hot work, maintaining clean worksites, keeping exits clear, and speaking up about unsafe conditions can prevent life-changing injuries. State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert and Jason Bresky of the Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital share why fire prevention is part of the job. Fire Safe CT is also proud to partner with the American Burn Association in support of Burn Awareness Week in early February.

Fire Safe CT: Prevent Burn Injuries on the Jobsite (YouTube)

New Resource: Environmentally Preferable Purchasing in Connecticut

DAS has launched an updated Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) webpage to support state agencies, municipalities, and organizations interested in building or strengthening sustainable purchasing programs.

The page features Connecticut’s EPP policy, examples of municipal EPP plans, and practical tools, standards, and resources to support implementation. Whether launching a new initiative or expanding existing practices, this resource is designed to help organizations make purchasing decisions that reduce environmental impact, protect human health, and deliver long-term value.

Visit the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing webpage (CT.gov)

Updated Public Safety Communications Contract Now Active

Responding to the needs of municipalities, DAS Procurement has launched a newly updated contract that significantly expands vendor options for public safety communications equipment, products, and related services.

Municipalities and state agencies can now access a broader pool of manufacturers’ authorized dealers, making it easier to find the right radio equipment and solutions to meet local operational and interoperability needs.

Contract:25PSX0125: Public Safety Communications Products, Services and Solutions (CTsource) 

Pinney Hall Renovation Moves Forward at WestConn

DAS is encouraged by the progress on the Pinney Hall renovation at Western Connecticut State University. This DAS-administered project includes removing balconies and installing new energy-efficient windows to improve safety, comfort, and long-term sustainability for students.

Construction is ongoing, with the residence hall remaining partially open during work. Full reopening is anticipated in time for the 2026–2027 academic year.

Commissioner Gilman Named NASCA Vice President for 2026

DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman has been named Vice President of the National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA) for 2026. Her leadership, collaborative approach, and commitment to operational excellence have strengthened government operations in Connecticut and earned her national recognition.

As NASCA Vice President, Commissioner Gilman will help advance the organization’s mission to improve state government operations through innovation and the sharing of best practices. Congratulations to Commissioner Gilman on this well-deserved honor as she represents Connecticut on the national stage.

NASCA Press Release: Michelle Gilman Announced as 2026 NASCA Vice President (NASCA.org)

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