To the Editor:

It was an honor to be elected to my first term on the Legislative Council last week, and I look forward to working with my new colleagues as we confront critical issues that face Newtown. I promise to listen with an open mind and act in the community’s best interests.

This new opportunity for me will end my tenure on the Board of Finance. It has been an honor to serve, and I would like to acknowledge the work and leadership of Sandy Roussas and Keith Alexander, who split chair duties during this past two-year term.

The 2019 election resulted in a 3-3 Republican/Democrat split on the Board of Finance, so collectively we decided that Sandy (a Republican) would chair the first year and Keith (a Democrat) would chair the second. Sandy and Keith are exemplary leaders; not only are they proficient in parliamentary procedure, but they govern fairly, transparently, and supportively. Discussion was never shut down, and while we did not always agree on every matter, everyone was given the opportunity to speak and share their views. In this era of extreme partisanship, the Board of Finance redefined the word cooperation, and that is largely due to Sandy and Keith’s leadership.

It is a real shame that neither Sandy nor Keith will work in service to our community after the month ends. I hope those of us who continue to serve will recall the examples they set and find common ground in our discussions.

Respectfully,

Chris Gardner

Newtown