To the Editor:

For the past 12 years I have had the honor of serving Newtown on the Board of Finance but I have decided to step aside this election (along with fellow board members John Kortze, Harry Waterbury, and Mike Portnoy). It would take several letters to the editor to list my colleagues’ many contributions to the town, and I wish to thank them all for their service. In particular, John Kortze was a tireless champion of sound fiscal management who devoted many hours over the entire 14-year history of the Board of Finance, and he is largely responsible for the policies that have led to Newtown’s AAA rating and outstanding financial position. If the next chairman is only half as good as John has been, the town will still be in good hands.

Two members of the current Board of Finance will be running for reelection; John Godin and James Filan. Both are outstanding members with strong qualifications. Both are thoughtful and detail oriented. John Godin has led several important initiatives for the board and is the GE representative for the administration of its $15 million grant to Newtown, while James Filan has taken on the challenge of representing the Board of Finance on the townwide space needs study, arguably one of the more critical endeavors facing the town. His skillful representation has been apparent to his fellow board members. These fine professionals are highly deserving of reelection.

Finally, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Mark Boland, Sandy Roussas, and Dave Ruhs, three candidates running to replace John Kortze, Harry Waterbury, and myself, and I am wholeheartedly endorsing each one for election to the Board of Finance to take our place. All three bring unique strengths to the board. I am confident that along with John Godin and James Filan, they will continue the policies that have been effective as well as developing new strategies to combat the challenges all towns in this state will be faced with over the coming years relating to tax policy, supporting local businesses and development, job growth, education costs (amid declining student enrollments), and numerous infrastructure projects. Our challenge will be to stay a step or two above neighboring towns in both value and quality of life so that Newtown becomes the first choice of people and businesses moving to the state. That starts with proper fiscal oversight and a strong Board of Finance. It won’t be easy but I know that Mark Boland, Sandy Roussas, and Dave Ruhs will be up to the task, and will make the town electorate proud.

Sincerely,

Joe Kearney

9 Daniels Hill Road, Newtown                                    October 7, 2015