Mountain Lion Spotted in Bristol

I was on my way home, driving in my car, when I spotted a mountain lion on Battle St in Bristol. It came from Old Cider Mill Road, crossed Battle St and ran up a small hill to the large field. I had enough time to stop to let him/her cross, but it did not seem phased either way. It wasn't skittish or anything---just leisurely crossing the street. Wasn't even in a big hurry. I was staring at it for what seemed like a long time b/c I had no idea what I was looking at. It was a med/large size, tannish/reddish color, long tail. I keep hearing we don't have mountain lions in the state so I didn't think much of it---thought it must've been a different kind of bobcat or something. I came upon this site and after looking at the pictures, I know now what I saw was a mountain lion. It was not furry like a bobcat and had no markings on it--more of a solid color. What I don't understand is why would the state not want to admit we have mountain lions?