More on Feds in Waterbury. Chamber Goes Mute.

The Waterbury Republican-American has more on the federal investigation of former Governor John Rowland that now includes the Waterbury Regional Chamber in its widening web. The Chamber and its representative have refused to comment or answer questions.

Rowland has worked for the business association for several years under an unusual arrangement. He has been paid by Waterbury taxpayers with public funds given to the chamber for Rowland’s vague services in economic development. The Torrington Register Citizen is seeking copies of documents relating to any work Rowland performed under the unusual payment scheme. Waterbury officials responded that there are none. They also claim that chamber records of Rowland’s work do not fall under the Freedom of information Act. The three term former governor who resigned in disgrace eight years ago this Sunday has some experience with secrecy in these public/private economic development relationships. In happier times, Rowland urged the controversial New London Development Corporation to comply with an order from the state’s Freedom of Information Commission to release documents to The Day newspaper.

The Waterbury chamber is learning the lesson that has jolted Democratic congressional hopeful Christopher Donovan’s campaign. Federal investigations that pass through Waterbury veer into unexpected places. You can bet on it.