To The Editor:

In an era when politics too often seems defined by division, I believe it is worth recognizing public officials who remember that their first responsibility is to serve the people they represent.

That has been my experience with State Representative Mitch Bolinsky.

Those who know Mitch personally know a man who is kind, approachable, and genuinely concerned about the people of Newtown. But his record of service deserves attention as well.

As Ranking Member of the General Assembly’s Aging Committee, Mitch has worked across party lines on issues that directly affect seniors and their families. Recent initiatives have expanded access to preventive dental care for homebound residents, strengthened protections and training involving residential and companion care, supported families confronting Alzheimer’s and dementia, and provided tax relief for qualifying family caregivers.

Here in Newtown, Mitch has also supported efforts to help seniors remain independent, including funding for local transportation services.

On affordability and local control, his positions have been equally clear. He co-sponsored legislation to remove the Public Benefits Charge from electric bills and has opposed state housing policies that he believes diminish local zoning authority. He has consistently advocated for Newtown having a meaningful voice in decisions affecting our schools, neighborhoods, and community.

I know there are people who strongly disagree with Mitch on certain issues. That is fair. But I wish more people could know the Mitch Bolinsky I know: a decent, caring and honorable man who genuinely wants to help the people he represents.

Mitch listens. He shows up. He knows this community. And after years in Hartford, he still approaches the job with an uncommon sense of personal responsibility to the people he represents.

Whatever our political affiliation, that kind of public service deserves recognition.

John Zachos

Newtown