To the Editor:

I am honored to endorse Julia Conlin for Police Commissioner.

Having previously served on Newtown’s Police Commission for approximately five years, I know what is involved in serving as a Police Commissioner, and what attributes will best benefit the PC and the community. Julia could not be more perfect or more qualified for the role.

Julia is a practicing lawyer, a litigator. She is trained to ask insightful, relevant and important questions and to be analytical, thorough and thoughtful. These qualities are critical on the Police Commission, which isn’t just the traffic authority in town; it hires, promotes, and even unfortunately has to conduct termination hearings. The PC is responsible for department policies as well.

Julia is always thoroughly prepared for any role she takes on. It is not just her training that brings these qualities to the table, it is who she is.

Moreover, the Police Commission, and therefore the community, will greatly benefit from having a woman once again serving on the PC. Women make up more than half of Newtown’s population, and there are numerous women officers on the force. They all deserve a voice on the PC. Newtown is so fortunate to have the perfect voice in Julia Conlin running for a seat on the PC.

I hope you will vote for Julia. She’s the right choice for Newtown’s Police Commission.

Joan Plouffe

Fairfield