The newest appointed member of the Board of Finance has only a few months before he'll have to stand for re-election. But Democrat Jim Filan says he's ready to start working -- and campaigning.
"We're all very excited that we're going to jump in here and see what we can do to help," he told the Board of Selectmen at Tuesday's meeting.
Selectmen gave Filan their approval at the meeting, with selectman James Gaston making the motion -- Filan is taking the spot of Gaston's son Jimmy, who returned to school this fall.
First Selectman Pat Llodra cited Filan's "impressive resume." A former federal prosecuter, Filan has spent most of his career in construction management and accounting -- experience he says prepares him for understanding the nuances of a town budget.
He's also a "certified anti-money laundering specialist" -- a role, Llodra said, that would probably not be a frequent need in Newtown, but which brings a level of confidence nonetheless.
"I'm sure you'll find it exciting, interesting and really important to the stability of our community," Llodra said. "[The Board of Finance has] played a critical role in helping us stabilize over a very critical time."
Filan has lived in Newtown for more than 16 years. His two daughters both attend Newtown schools.
"Most importantly, I have an open mind," he told Patch. And I'm ready to listen."
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