To the Editor,

I served on the Newtown Legislative Council with Melissa Pilchard. She was one of the four members who wrote the rules in 1976 by which the council still operates today. She is an important voice on the council and merits re-election.

Melissa cares about children and was instrumental in getting Head O’Meadow approved and in working to expand and keep our other schools in good repair. Both her sons were active Newtown athletes, adding to her awareness of the importance of the towns’ ball fields and other facilities.

As a member of the council’s finance committee for the past ten years, Melissa has worked diligently for Newtown. During her tenure on the council, the budget increases have been held to one mill or less, which is certainly evidence of good planning.

Melissa knows the people of Newtown because she lives and works here, and knows the assets and problems of our community. She is knowledgeable, conscientious and industrious.

Melissa has served as vice chairman of the Legislative Council for the past six years, an obvious example of the respect afforded to her by her fellow council members. Now, in the upcoming election, it is more important than ever that she be re-elected. Her experience in all aspects of the Fairfield Hills questions will be invaluable since she has studied in depth the budgetary, space and community considerations which will be involved in the next six months as this important matter is decided.

I’ve known Melissa Pilchard for over 20 years and am pleased to have the opportunity to vote for her on November 2.

Ann Krane

6 Lincoln Road, Newtown                                      October 19, 1999