Political Signs: What You Don’t See Says Something

To the Editor:

Newtown is one of the few towns in Connecticut that has been fortunate not to succumb to the “Sign Wars” syndrome during the political season. That is because traditionally, both the Republican and Democratic Town Committees have asked their candidates to refrain from this practice.

The posting of political lawn signs is somewhat counterproductive. They do nothing to explain where a candidate appears on an issue, they are costly, yet it is difficult not to respond when you see those of your opponent beginning to appear. It is not good for the environment and frankly it does nothing to improve the appearance of a picturesque New England town. If someone is looking to buy a house during the months before an election this is not the way to put our best foot forward. In other towns, enthusiastic volunteers often post them in public places rather than private yards, and then, after the election, it is costly for municipal employees to dispose of them.

During the campaign you may see a few lawn signs appear on private property, and of course every resident does have that right under the freedom of speech guaranteed in the US Constitution. However, the Fetzer/Hemingway Team has asked our supporters, and our fellow Democratic candidates not to post any signs on their lawns. We will leave it up to you, and the other voters to determine if you agree with this position when you are casting your ballots.

While perhaps this is not best for the individual candidates, we feel the absence of political yard signs is best for the town. That’s what Team Newtown is all about.

Sincerely

Gary Fetzer

Democratic Candidate for First Selectman

18 Sugar Street, Newtown                                   September 15, 2009