What Do Republicans

Want To Do?

To the Editor:

Taxes: Republicans will look at all fixed costs. Specifically, we will look at self-insuring versus an outside insurer. We will look at the costs of defined contribution plan, much like a 401(k) plan, versus the current defined benefit plan. If we can save, we want to discuss it. Capitol projects will be vetted through all fiscally responsible boards. The Republican difference is that we will make data-driven and fact-based decisions — not emotional decisions. We Republicans will continue to live within our means and guidelines and take it one step further; we will pursue an overall debt reduction plan. Reducing the debt that will improve on the solid financial standing that we already enjoy. Reducing debt payments reduces taxes!

Planning: We Republicans believe a future vision for Newtown starts at the ground level, through a “bottom up” process with the many qualified personnel that best understand the needs of their various departments. The Republican vision also incorporates some new savings ideas like exploring the idea of “regionalization” where Newtown bands together with other local municipalities in purchasing of goods and services to achieve economies of scale. We need to understand the synergies and business practices within departments, including education, to realize savings. The difference is that we do not think we need to discard the existing planning tools. We need to take the current tools and analyze the current data in the context of where we are right now and where we want to go. Guided by public input, we will continue to collaborate with all boards and commissions in town to incorporate the information to form a vision for Newtown’s future.

Fairfield Hills: What Republicans will do is review and update the master plan. Because of the town’s commitment to the property, we will not halt spending. Why? The town cannot make a $21 million investment and then freeze all funding. Commitment means some capital will be required. That’s the Republican difference. The town can review the plan and still make forward progress. The next steps will be shaped by focused community input and will follow the normal public processes of capital requests and budgeting. We want to ensure the plan aligns with townwide priorities, is integrated into the long-range vision, and is implemented within the constraints of fiscal realities.

These are the things that Newtown Republicans believe in and want to accomplish. It can be said that there are many similarities among the various parties as to what they want to accomplish. However, strong leadership, starting with our first selectman candidate Pat Llodra, is the difference. The Republican Town Committee selected its candidates based on their principles and beliefs. We Republicans feel strongly that our candidates are the right match for Newtown. Our candidates are strong leaders, willing to work collaboratively with all elected officials, town employees and the public, and are extremely dedicated to the future of Newtown.

Our candidate biographies and other news can be found at www.newtownrepublicans.org.

Bill Brimmer

8 Hattertown Road, Newtown                                 October 14, 2009

(Mr Brimmer is the chairman of the Republican Town Committee.)