To the Editor:

Everyone should be aware at this point of two disturbing realities: First, Governor Malloy's penchant for tax increases is destroying Connecticut's economy; and second, the governor has issued an Executive Order cutting $4,893,000 from Newtown's State Education Grant and mandates that Newtown absorb an additional $3,500,000 for Teacher Pension costs. It is clear that the state is failing as a partner and as a friend of Newtown.

If the state will not or cannot lead, then local officials must step up. It is critically important this year that we elect, to our Legislative Council, members with extensive municipal budget experience and the ability to control costs. One of the very best candidates in this regard is George Guidera. Just consider George's 35 years of experience in state and municipal service: State Representative and State Senator (eight years), Chairman of the prestigious Senate Judiciary Committee (two years), Legislative Commissioner of the State of Connecticut (12 years), First Selectman of the Town of Weston, Conn. (12 years), Member of the Newtown Charter Revision Commission (two years) and Member and Vice Chairman of the Newtown Commission on Aging (two years).

George Guidera has performed exceptionally well in every public office he has held. As first selectman of Weston, he controlled the budget at an average increase of less than one percent per year for 12 years by instituting a culture of fiscal responsibility and transparency. A major revision of Newtown's Town Charter, approved overwhelmingly by the voters, was the product of the Charter Revision Commission for which he served. As a State Senator, he authored the Connecticut Child Abuse Act, considered to be the most important piece of legislation for the protection of children since its passage. Again as first selectman, George negotiated the acquisition of 1,750 acres of new open space lands for the Town of Weston and received the highest national award of the Nature Conservancy for his open space preservation. Finally, a long overdue new senior center was approved by the voters during his tenure on the Newtown Commission on Aging.

George has a long proud history of public service. Weston greatly benefited from his fiscal discipline and he has proven himself a leader since moving to Newtown. Legislative Council District 1 voters have a fantastic candidate in George Guidera and I encourage all to vote for him.

Sincerely,

Jeff Capeci

52 Bear Hills Road, Newtown      October 17, 2017