To the Editor:

As the State of Connecticut continues to battle with a daunting budget deficit, all towns will be negatively impacted as local aid cuts loom. Newtown is among the many Connecticut towns that are being forced to find ways to save money to keep from cutting town services. One logical way to avoid unnecessary expenses would be to re-elect Town Clerk Debbie Aurelia Halstead.

Ms Halstead has served as town clerk for over ten years and during that time has expanded her knowledge through extensive training paid for by the town, and has achieved the highest town clerk's certifications available. Her titles of certified municipal clerk (CMC), master certified town clerk (MCTC), and master municipal clerk (MMC) have taken her many years to earn. Those challenging for Ms Halstead's position do not possess the same expertise nor certifications necessary to serve as town clerk. Is it wise or fiscally responsible for the Town of Newtown to pay for that training again?

Ms Halstead's tenure has been marked by numerous improvements to the town clerk's office and role within the Town of Newtown and these improvements benefit all residents. Increasing efficiencies through technology has been a pillar of Ms Halstead's decade-long run as town clerk. One such improvement is the ability of residents to access and purchase property records in a clear, concise format. The fact that Ms Halstead has created processes that produce revenue for Newtown cannot be ignored, as well as the more than $53,000 in grant funding she has applied for and received.

The town cannot afford to elect a town clerk who would have to learn on the job and cost precious resources to "get up to speed." Ms Halstead has proven her dedication to the Town of Newtown in her role over the past ten years and now is the time for Newtown to stay on the path forward with Ms Halstead's investment in time and effort, thereby avoiding any additional costs to the town. The state budget problems will be felt the most at the local level and re-electing Ms Halstead is the only smart move for Newtown, based upon her commitment to residents, numerous certifications, and vast experience.

Bob Willis

141 Head of Meadow Road, Newtown          August 30, 2017