To the Editor:

It has been my pleasure to meet many of you, over the last several weeks, the ideas, suggestions and advice have been welcomed and heartfelt. It’s obvious, we all care very much about this beautiful place we call home. However Newtown, like many communities, is facing some difficult choices in the next few years, that will impact the Town’s finances and opportunities for years to come.

From our aging population to young people at risk, taxes, and the envi­ronment, to fostering economic development, that also safeguards Newtown’s character, these are some of the issues before us. I believe it is ineffective to be combative and close-minded. But if we listen, build consensus, and act collaboratively, we will be able to achieve real solutions to the challenges facing our Town.

This approach is not revolutionary, although sadly it may seem so these days. It’s been my experience that only by working together, will Newtown continue to prosper yet remain the “special place” that each of us wants to preserve. This doesn’t mean we all will agree on a particular action or policy, nor should we. However it does mean we should honestly discuss the issues, ask questions and compromise where we can, but then make decisions and move on. Transparency, accountability, and responsibility, in other words, get involved and take ownership!

At the end of the day, we as residents of Newtown deserve nothing less from ourselves and our elected officials.

Sincerely,

Barney Molloy

Newtown