To the Editor:armelforbof@gmail.com or visit my Facebook page, facebook.com/armelforbof.Editor's Note: Mr Kouassi is running for a position on the Board of Finance.

When my wife and I moved from Chesterfield, Mo., five years ago, we were looking for a place we can call home. We felt in love of the quaint beautiful town of Newtown. My three daughters Camille (2), Alexiane (6), and Matiya (9) are benefiting from an amazing school system, they made friends in Newtown and are enjoying the many activities the town has to offer. We truly believe Newtown is the place where memories are made. We cherish the beautiful environment, the sense of community and the intergenerational relationship. I would like Newtown to continue to prosper for all its residents while preserving its character. I will approach issues with fact-based, open-minded and work harder to improve the financial strength of our beautiful town through common-sense and practical approaches. I will research and understand the facts to make the right decision.

I commit to work with fellow board members to maintain Newtown as a desirable place to live, both for existing residents and new residents. I plan to support the long-term financial viability of the town through careful and thoughtful spending practice to maintain high-quality services, an A+ rated school system and to seek ways to moderate the tax burden with prioritization and innovative ideas. Our town financial viability will be a key priority. I will focus on capital expenditure and ensuring the town's capital assets are being maintained and improved in the most cost-effective manner.

My extensive experience in management and finance will allow me to help Newtown manage the town's finances professionally and carefully for the benefits of the residents. I have thoroughly enjoyed attending several Board of Finance meetings to understand firsthand the budgeting and financial issues facing Newtown.

Despite our financial challenges and the recent budget stalemate, I believe that Newtown's future will remain bright with the right leadership. I will be thrilled to have the opportunity to serve the town of Newtown dear to me and my family. My commitment to Newtown residents is to approach my responsibilities with open mind, fact-based to make the best educated decision for the town finance and to manage our finances in a balanced and responsible manner.

I look forward to serving my fellow Newtown residents.

If you have any questions, you can reach me via email at

Sincerely,

Armel Romeo Kouassi

Briarwood Lane, Newtown            September 20, 2017