To The Editor:

For the last 4 years, it has been my honor to serve as State Representative for the 107th District which includes the Hawleyville area of Newtown, the Stony Hill area of Bethel and all of my hometown of Brookfield. I am currently a member of the Appropriations, Education, and Government Administration & Elections Committees and in my prior term served on the Aging Committee.

Now more than ever, residents are looking for candidates who can work across the aisle and prioritize the needs of the community. I believe my work and voting record during my first two terms as State Representative reflects that mindset and shows that I am acting in the best interests of all the people I have the privilege to represent. I am able to work with colleagues from all parties. We may disagree on some issues, but disagreement does not have to mean disrespect. Public service works best when we work for everyone, not just those who agree with us because the big issues, like affordability and public safety, don’t recognize political boundaries. I am endorsed by both the Republican Party and the Independent Party of Connecticut and will continue to work with my Democrat colleagues in Hartford on behalf of my constituents.

While in the State Legislature, I have advocated for making Connecticut a more affordable, safer place to live, work, and raise a family. I supported a historic income tax cut and bills making it easier for seniors to age in place. I was humbled to be named a 2024 Children’s Champion for my work on the Early Childhood Caucus and am proud to have a consistent 100-percent score from the Connecticut Business and Industry Association for my voting record on supporting businesses. Last year, I was also honored by them to be named a Jobs Champion and, this year, named an Affordability Champion.

Prior to my time as State Representative, I proudly served in the Army for 28 years as a Military Intelligence Officer, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. In 1999, I was elected First Selectman of Brookfield and served two terms. Following the September 11 terrorist attacks, I was called to active duty with the Army. I went on to serve as a Senior Intelligence Officer with the newly created Department of Homeland Security. For over 14 years, I worked in NYC as a liaison to the NYPD, FDNY and Office of Emergency Management.

In my community, I served on the Brookfield Economic Development Commission, was President of the Brookfield Rotary Club and helped develop our youth as a Little League coach, and Scout Leader. Currently, I am a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus and Senior Vice Commander of American Legion Post 202 in Newtown.

I pledge to continue fighting for local control of zoning and development decisions, advocating for utility reforms, and to push back against state policies that make life more expensive.

I ask for your vote in this November’s election.

Marty Foncello

State Representative, 107th District