The Obvious Choice

(The following email to the Newtown Board of Education has been received for publication.)

To all who serve on the Newtown Board of Education:

First, I would appreciate if this email is also shared with Ms McClure, Ms Chrystie and Mr Nanavaty. Unfortunately their email addresses aren’t made available on the town’s website, and they aren’t copied on this email.

It is important that every voice, especially those who have a material vested interest in this matter, be heard. Unfortunately, work schedules often prevent us from attending in person the debates on various aspects of town government and decisions.

My wife (Kirsten FitzGerald Gelston, lifelong resident of Newtown) and I firmly support the continuation of the busing contract with MTM Transportation. Everyday we hand our child off to someone who has sole responsibility for our child’s welfare and safe travel to his school. MTM is a local company, and employs local people who are well known and visible in the community. In fact, our son’s current driver (Dave Selleck) drove my wife to school when she was a little girl. Make no mistake about it, there is great comfort in knowing and trusting the person behind the wheel of the bus. The difference in annual cost is well worth the piece of mind that comes from this. Also, in this time more than any, we need to support local businesses to try and provide stability during this economically turbulent time.

I always believe that the known dynamic is worth a premium over the unknown. You know the terrific service that is currently provided by MTM, and that should factor into your review of the situation.

So, as you decide on a course of action, I urge you to weigh our opinion equally to the voices that attend in person to argue either side. Take a step back and look at the facts: Track record of quality service, drivers that are known, trusted and respected in the community, local business ownership. The choice should be an obvious one.

Sincerely,

Tom and Kirsten Gelston

96 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Sandy Hook                          May 5, 2009