The Voices Of A Few

To the Editor:

“You’re kidding me...”

These are the first words that came out of my mouth when I arrived home from work last night. My wife had just informed me that the high school expansion project was not going to referendum. As of this writing the answer to the “why not?” is inexcusable.

My family moved to Newtown just under two years ago. We came at a time when the relocation of the town hall to Fairfield Hills debate was in full swing. I recall reading editorials that made my head spin and have since remained skeptical about whether town appropriations are being directed in areas our greatest needs. This week’s 2-1 decision by the Board of Selectmen put an abrupt end to any discussion on the high school expansion and confirmed my distrust.

Like many, I was not even aware that a forum was being held on the high school expansion, let alone a vote on the topic. It seems to me, a very important community decision was made by two individuals based on either their own opinion or that of a select group of people. Regardless of which side of the debate an individual falls on, a decision of this magnitude cannot be left to the voices of a few.

Put the high school expansion back on the referendum and let all voters decide.... and maybe restore some level of faith back into our political system.

Matthew F. Burns

1 Arlyn Ridge Road, Newtown                                     March 19, 2008