Dumped By The Democrats

To the Editor:

In your July 27 edition, you reported Ruby Johnson will step down from the Legislative Council. This is not correct. I intended to stand for reelection, but the Democratic Party leaders refused to accept me as a candidate for the council to represent the Democratic Party. In short, the Democratic Party “dumped Johnson.”

Why? I received no explanation, but probably I was deemed a disloyal party member because:

1. Two and one-half years ago I organized save Fairfield Hills for Newtown in hopes of saving this beautiful property for all of us to enjoy in perpetuity. At that time, the Democratic leadership was working with the state to choose one of three developers to buy Fairfield Hills and to develop it for housing and commercial enterprises.

2. In March, 2000, I opposed the Democratic leadership’s endorsement of a plan for Newtown to buy FFH and operate it for commerce and industry.

3. In January, 2001, I opposed the selectman’s Request for Proposal in which the property was offered to developers for commercial purposes but also would have allowed 200 units of housing at FFH (not age restricted).

The Democratic Party leaders will not allow me to be a candidate for the council from the 3rd District. I cannot follow a leader blindly; I must weigh each issue and act accordingly. I will continue to serve the people of Newtown in other ways. FFH is only one issue facing our elected officials in the coming years, but FFH should be viewed as a vital part of any long range plan for preserving open space, satisfying municipal space needs, planning for a growing school population, and alleviating the crisis in recreational facilities.

We, the people, must be allowed freedom to dissent and freedom to speak without retribution. Be sure to vote in November. All citizens must be diligent to preserve our democracy. It’s our town and our money. Let your voice be heard!

Ruby Johnson

16 Chestnut Hill Road, Sandy Hook       July 30, 2001