Vote Yes, Yes, Yes,

For A United Newtown

To the Editor:

The following are our personal views. We are not speaking on behalf of the Legislative Council, of which we are members.

We would like to see a united Newtown, one with a clear vision of what we want to achieve as a community and a clear road map as to how to make that vision a reality. A step toward this goal is the referendum on April 22.

Many differing opinions have been expressed about the size and scope of the proposed high school expansion. One clear theme has arisen: something needs to be done at our high school now to address severe overcrowding. We urge all who recognize this basic fact to vote for the currently proposed high school expansion. It is a long-term solution to overcrowding and helps to meet the academic needs of our students. The gym and stadium improvements help to address the important recreational needs of all Newtown residents, as well as mitigate the loss of a high school practice field. Let’s unite behind supporting the expansion.

We also can find unity in support of the proposed annual budget. Many have been distressed by cuts to the originally proposed education budget. Many were equally distressed at proposed cuts to further reduce the town budget. All can agree that in difficult economic times a budget that provides the services residents demand should be presented at the lowest possible cost. The budget being forwarded for your action on April 22 does this. It represents barely status-quo funding for educational and municipal services. The reality is if we do not pass this budget on the first vote, there will be additional cuts, resulting in further decreases in services.

We can also unite behind the $1 million bond issue to start design work around the creation of a new community and senior center.

The process that led to this referendum engaged many folks on various boards and commissions seeking to know and understand the best plan for funding our community’s needs. Ultimately, the proposal sent to you, the voters, represents the combined work these elected bodies, all of which approved these proposals. We urge you to demonstrate your vote for a more united Newtown by joining us in voting Yes for the high school expansion, Yes for the operating budget, and Yes for the community/senior center at the referendum on April 22.

Patricia Llodra

Jeff Capeci

Gary Davis

Chris Lyddy

Riverside Road, Sandy Hook                                            April 9, 2008