To the Editor:

Eight years ago I was elected first selectman of the Town of Trumbull. One of the most important decisions I made early in my term was the selection of a town attorney. At that time, I selected my friend and colleague, Dennis Kokenos, to serve as town attorney. Dennis was 30 years old when he became Trumbull's town attorney. Some questioned whether a 30-year-old was ready to be a town attorney - after being appointed by a 29-year-old first selectman. As I look back on my administration, I can say without hesitation that I got it absolutely right with the appointment of Dennis Kokenos eight years ago.

As senior town attorney for the Town of Trumbull, Dennis has seen and confronted virtually every type of situation that impacts a municipality. He has been a leader in defending the Town of Trumbull and negotiating on its behalf. He has represented every town department and been required to opine on every type of legal issue a municipality could possibly face. He has not only represented the town, but negotiated successfully with our neighboring municipalities. His legal acumen helped guide Trumbull through a Charter Revision that was approved by the voters in 2011, as well as a redistricting of town voting districts. He has provided legal guidance to town boards and commissions and has been required to interpret our Town Charter frequently. He has interfaced with state and federal agencies on behalf of Trumbull advocating for our interests.

The people of Newtown could not ask for a more qualified or capable individual to serve on your Legislative Council. You are getting tremendous experience in municipal law and better yet, you're getting it at no cost to the taxpayers of Newtown! Dennis and his wife, Stephanie, have chosen to make Newtown their home and the place where they will raise their three children. The Kokenos children will attend Middle Gate Elementary School. Dennis has a vested interest as a parent and taxpayer in guaranteeing that taxes remain predictable and stable, while at the same time maintaining an outstanding school system. Dennis might be a political newcomer in Newtown politics, but one thing I know is that he will not require on-the-job training. He is ready to get to work on behalf of the people of Newtown as a member of the Legislative Council on day one.

The people of Newtown also have another candidate seeking election to the Legislative Council who brings tremendous experience to the table. George Guidera is a lawyer, a former first selectman of Weston, and a former state senator. Like me, George has managed a municipality and knows every facet of municipal governance. He is very well respected and will do honor to the Legislative Council.

My hat is off to the Newtown Republicans for nominating such outstanding candidates to seek local office. Please get out there and support Dennis Kokenos and George Guidera on November 7.

Timothy M. Herbst

First Selectman, Town of Trumbull

97 Fairview Avenue, Trumbull October 10, 2017