Exercise Your

Right To Vote

To the Editor:

As we approach this year’s second budget referendum to be held on May 17, I sincerely encourage fellow Newtowners to exercise their right to vote and consider voting in support of the current proposed budget.

I was so impressed during the start of this budget season to see the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Education working hand in hand to present a solid budget for our town. Once our Legislative Council allowed the proposed amount to be put to a vote, I anticipated the budget passing on the first go-round. Naive? Perhaps. But after recent years of rancor and discord, I believed that our elected officials did their best to give Newtown the best, considering challenging economic circumstances.

My disappointment was caused by both the referendum’s failure and the extremely low voter turnout. The government of Newtown, in accordance with its charter, allows each citizen a great deal of power in deciding how the town’s money will be spent. I applaud those who turned out for the first referendum and hope not only that will they return, but will also encourage their friends and neighbors to come out as well.

Jennifer Scarangella

14 Poorhouse Road, Newtown                                          May 11, 2011