To the Editor:

“I look forward to learning. I look forward to listening.”

These are the words that Chandravir “Chand” Ahuja said when appointed to fill the recent vacancy on the Board of Finance (BOF). They fully reflect his unassuming and collaborative nature. Underneath, though, lies an astute, dedicated ,and community-minded man, one who I had the utmost privilege of getting to know during our time together on the Fairfield Hills Master Plan Review Committee.

While working with Chand on that committee, I was very impressed with his dedication to learning the history of the property and the community’s thoughts about its potential futures. He carefully weighed all of the input, engaged in respectful conversation, and helped the committee arrive at its final recommendations.

Even after the committee had officially ended, Chand was one who closely followed subsequent discussions related to the property. In short, Chand was someone I could rely on to be fair, informed, and present.

Based on my work with him, I fully believe that Chand will make our BOF stronger. Chand will bring with him an in-depth knowledge of financial practices and assessments, having been active in the financial sector for several decades.

He will bring a dedication to ensuring that the community is well served, as he does while volunteering for his church community. And, he will bring a sense of collaboration, both within the BOF and among other Newtown boards, as illustrated by his words above. Please join me in supporting him this November.

Deborra Zukowski

Former Chair — Fairfield Hills Master Plan Review Committee