Name: Peggy Baiad (D)

Address: 4 Budd Drive

Age: 57

Occupation: Real estate agent, substitute teacher in Newtown schools.

Education: BA in Spanish from Dickinson College. Graduate studies at Middlebury College.

Political Experience: Two-year incumbent to the Legislative Council.

Years in Newtown: 29

What is the best plan of development for the re-use of Fairfield Hills? At this point, I feel the best option would be for the town to purchase Fairfield Hills. We have to plan for the future, and this is a now or never opportunity – prime land in the center of town. We let the Gretsch property get away – a bargain in retrospect. Of course, it all comes down to price, and there are still many unknowns. Each of the other three proposed plans has good points, but too much housing.

How do you feel about giving tax breaks to special groups: senior citizens, volunteer emergency personnel and new businesses? I’m in favor of tax breaks for the elderly. Many senior citizens are on a fixed income, and I feel we should do what we can to help them. For emergency volunteers, it would be nice to give an economic incentive to them. This idea is new to me, and I would need to study it more closely. As for new businesses, since other area towns offer tax incentives, I feel we should offer them also (on a case-by-case basis) in order to be competitive, and to attract businesses that will broaden our tax base.

What are Newtown’s three most pressing capital needs? How do we plan for them given the nearly $60 million worth of projects currently on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)?  5/6 school, space needs for our municipal offices, purchase of Fairfield Hills. The three I have mentioned are already in the Capital Improvement Plan. I think long-term planning is critical and I think the council is on the right track with the CIP. We have to address immediate needs, but at the same time, we have to plan for the future.

What skills do you have for the job that will most benefit the town of Newtown? Well-prepared, honest, loyal – or is that my Girl Scout creed? In any case, they apply. Study the issue at hand, vote what is right and not politically expedient, and be loyal to the best interests of the town. I am proud to have served on the council for the past two years.

Why do you feel you should be re-elected? My first term on the Legislative Council has been a learning experience. I can honestly say that I always try to look at the whole picture, and so what is best for Newtown. I care very deeply for this town and always try to act in its best interest.

Is there one aspect of Newtown’s government you would like to see changed? I think our town government works pretty well, for the most part. As we continue to grow, the town meeting might not be as effective, but that remains to be seen.