To the Editor:

The Newtown Republican Candidates Committee spent the past year matching great people with the right commission or elected position.

One of our most outstanding candidates for this election is a newcomer to politics: Mark Boland, running for Board of Finance. He is a financial expert, a natural leader, and a congenial negotiator. A life-long insurance industry expert, his resume includes positions at Fireman’s Fund, National Reinsurance, and Endurance US Insurance companies. He has represented his companies at Moody’s and AM Best (the premier insurance-rating organization.)

At age 39, Mark became president of Hermitage Insurance, in White Plains, N.Y. Today, he is president of Merit Specialty, an operating unit of Hanover Insurance Group, based in Windsor, Conn. Mark is a rare combination; a financial type with an entrepreneurial spirit. He founded another company, Coventry Managers, and sold it to a conglomerate. To his credit, many former colleagues have moved their careers with him.

In Newtown, the Bolands have lived in the Taunton area for 20 years. Their three sons are grown, the last one in college. Mark spent two decades building his career and traveling 50 percent of the time. This is a new stage in their lives. He is ready to serve the town he has chosen for so long.

The Board of Finance is apolitical. Some have served, together, for a decade or more. It’s time for them to enjoy a break.

Mark Boland is a perfect choice for this new team.

Sincerely,

Jane Sharpe

Member, RTC Candidates Committee

62 Underhill Road, Sandy Hook                                                                     October 6, 2015