Party: Republican
Office: Legislative Council, District 2
Status: Incumbent
Pitch: I believe I am the correct choice for the position because I know I can be fair and impartial on both budgets. Give me a reasonable budget and I will stand behind it. I do not want to hear "contractual obligations" when discussing a budget. Whoever agrees to that increase it should come out of their budget NOT the taxpayers.
(For more information, see Newtown Republicans.)
On The Issues
- Did you support the 2013-14 education budget?
I did support the budget that finally passed. My comment all along was "get under 4% and I will support it". In light of 12/14 I knew there would be increased budget requirements on both sides of the budget. Also, I believed it was time for full day kindergarten.
- Are there areas you'd like to see addressed in the municipal budget next year?
The municipal budget has only increased by 0.80% cumulative in the last 5 years. We constantly hear how roads are not being repaired in a timely basis or at all. The amount of budgetary increase cannot be sustained forever. Our infrastructure will continue to age and will ultimately become a problem in the future. Also, salaries on the municipal side have not been increased. There are areas where the education personnel in a comparable position are paid a greater amount.
- Do you believe Newtown's tax structure needs improvements?
As someone approaching senior status I strongly sympathize with the need for tax relief. That being said, I believe the revaluation and tax structure are fair. As a council member we approved an addition to the senior tax relief fund. I also believe the way to reduce taxes for all is to attract more businesses to Newtown
. The first step would be sewers in the Hawleyville area. This would allow us to better market that business area. Also Fairfield Hills. The buildings there are not suitable for businesses. It is very expensive to remove those buildings which is why we move slowly.
- What is the most important issue facing residents of your district?
The biggest issue currently is the removal and construction of
Sandy Hook
School
. Bringing our children home is of the utmost importance. Along with that will be the revitalization of the businesses in
Sandy Hook
.
- What can the town do to attract more business?
This is a very complicated area. In order to attract business you must support growth in your infrastructure. With the recent pressures on the municipal budget the town support has not been there. This includes Fairfield Hills. It costs millions of dollars to remove some of those buildings, which again is why the town is moving slowly.
