To the Editor:

I am writing to ask the you, the voters, to support Steve Hinden for the Board of Finance (BOF). It is more important than ever that every Newtown voter considers the many critical issues that face us as a community. The BOF is defined in our charter this way: “The BOF advises… all Town Bodies on preferred financial practices and obligations. The BOF also reviews and assesses financial operations including transfers, regular and special appropriations.” The advice and expertise that Steve brings to the BOF is critical to the town as we work to balance the financial priorities for our community.

We need to restore the BOF to its intended role by voting for members who do not have political agendas and have a combination of experience, subject matter expertise, zero political aspirations, and critical thinking skills. Steve has extensive expertise in working across political lines budgeting, reporting, establishing controls, monitoring variations of actual results against planned results and reacting to adverse conditions. Steve is also a Newtown parent with a son in Newtown High School who has made his way through our public school system.

Newtown and Connecticut face unprecedented challenges in the coming years. We need to ensure Steve is given the opportunity to continue this important work and demonstrate his commitment to our community. Steve possesses the right mix of skills without any political bias in how we manage our limited town finances. I hope you’ll support Steve Hinden on 5 November; I know I will.

Sincerely,

Robert Licata

34 Charter Ridge Drive, Sandy Hook September 30, 2019