To the Editor:

During the fall of 2016, I had the honor of interning with Newtown First Selectman Pat Llodra. While working with community leaders I was able to work on a multitude of issues to help improve the quality of life for residents, ranging from the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to the Age Friendly Living proposal, to recommending a plastic bag reduction method ordinance. Newtown is a compassionate community; a community that understands the need to be pragmatic in the use of resources and respectful toward local governance.

I was able to interact with many members of the Legislative Council; however Council Representative Ryan Knapp stands out a leader in the community - a passionate and committed leader. Not only was Ryan attentive to the various proposals which the first selectman's office was bringing forward, he constantly wanted to learn more and learn the details and options of every proposal. He clearly understands the importance of local leadership and how a community must have strong local leadership in order to have a voice on the state level.

I firmly believe that Representative Knapp has earned another two years on the council. I hope you agree. So on Election Day, November 7, vote Ryan Knapp for Legislative Council!

John Board

Umpawaug Road, Redding            September 19, 2017