To The Editor:

I am writing to commend First Selectman Jeffery Capeci for his outstanding leadership in resolving Newtown’s long-standing fiscal challenges. As a resident who has followed local governance closely, I appreciate the proactive steps he has taken to stabilize our town’s finances, ensuring a more secure future for all of us.

One notable accomplishment is his decision to hire Glenys Salas as the new finance director in early 2024. This strategic appointment followed the retirement of the previous director and has brought much-needed expertise to oversee budgeting and financial operations. By bolstering the finance team, Mr Capeci has laid a strong foundation for improved fiscal management.

Equally important is his handling of the insurance shortfalls, particularly in the medical self-insurance fund, which required drawing from fund balances to cover unexpected costs. Through collaborative discussions with the Board of Education and other officials, he has addressed these deficits head-on, preventing deeper impacts on services while working toward long-term solutions.

Overall, Mr Capeci’s efforts have resulted in prudent budget proposals that minimize tax burdens on residents, even amid rising costs and economic pressures. His commitment to fiscal responsibility is evident and deserving of recognition.

For more information on these initiatives, I encourage readers to review articles in The Newtown Bee, including “Newtown Announces New Finance Director” (March 7, 2024), “Board Of Finance Begins Budget Deliberations” (February 14, 2025), and “A Same Services Budget Is Impossible” (January 30, 2025).

Tiffany Hawley

Newtown

Editor’s Note: This letter was submitted for the issue of September 19 but was not printed due to technical issues with The Newtown Bee’s e-mail, which have since been resolved.