The Rosenthal Record

To the Editor:

It was with great concern that I read the letter last week stating all Herb Rosenthal has done while in office is raise taxes.

Having attended many state political events over the past few years, I know the incredible respect people across the state have for our first selectman. He is held in the highest regard across the state, and serving as the chairman of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities shows this respect.

While the list is too long for the word limit of these letters, I feel compelled to share some of the things he has done for Newtown, and can only hope that others will share as well. Perhaps, if you read The Bee more thoroughly and paid attention to more than the gossip that seems to have enveloped this town, such comments would never have been made.

Herb has acquired Fairfield Hills for town use, at a savings of $2.6 million. In addition, properties acquired on Queen Street and Mile Hill South as part of this deal were auctioned off, generating almost $3 million.

The master plan is now being implemented by the Fairfield Hills Management Authority. New fields are underway, and there will be many developments in the coming months, including a recreation center.

Herb has preserved over 1,000 acres of open space throughout town to keep the character of Newtown.

He has improved Newtown’s bond rating.

By working with boards and commissions, eyesores from Church Hill Road have been eliminated and have been returned to tax roles. Buildings like the Teen Center, Senior Center, and Town Hall South have seen improvements.

He made Newtown the first town in our area to perform emergency medical dispatch with a combined E911 dispatch center.

Senior citizens and emergency service volunteers have received tax relief during Herb’s terms in office, totaling almost $1 million.

Herb has kept the town side of the budget down to allow for more on the education side.

He has found an incredible balance by supporting the education of the youngest children, and the needs of our town’s seniors. He has worked tirelessly on the bipartisan Board of Selectman, and has fostered relationships with Democrats and Republicans on boards and commissions. These relationships that are missing in so many towns have allowed him to get so much accomplished while in office. This itself is a major accomplishment, to get along with so many different groups of people.

Herb has campaigned on the slogan “Preserving the Character of Newtown.” This character has been stolen by the rumors and unnecessary drama in recent months. It may be easier to listen to rumors and play the blame game, but if you are willing to read a little more, listen a little harder, and realize who has really helped this town, Herb Rosenthal should be at the top of your list. He has lead Newtown through many difficult issues, and has filled the role of first selectman in a truly principled and professional manner.

Sincerely,

Sarah Hemingway

10 Overlook Knoll, Sandy Hook                                         July 6, 2007