To The Editor:

I’m writing to elaborate on the core beliefs motivating my run for Legislative Council (D3).

First, I believe a strong public education is a critical foundation for children and the single most important investment we can make in our community (whether you have children or not). I’m a proud product of public education and equally proud my three children will be, too. Newtown must keep pace with the ever-evolving face of education across curriculum, technology, and special education. But unlimited money isn’t always the answer — in business, I’ve learned the importance of measuring the returns on your investments and being a good steward of the investments of others. I intend to bring a mindset of fiscal responsibility to the Council.

Next, I believe Newtown is facing some important decisions (residential and economic development, Fairfield Hills, etc.). If elected, I’m committed to understanding these issues deeply so I can make logical, evidence-based decisions. Most importantly, I’ll listen to my neighbors in D3 to understand their perspectives.

It’s not just about how to deal with the current issues, though — I believe we need people on the Council who have the skills and abilities to tackle the next set of problems as well, whatever they may be. Having spent a decade in corporate strategy and problem-solving, I believe I can be one of those people.

Finally, I believe that community matters. I’m a firm believer in treating others with respect and kindness, even if (especially if!) we disagree. I believe that at our core, we all fundamentally want similar things — the magic is in reconciling the different paths to get there. I will help foster this ethos on the council.

Please visit my Facebook page (@AlisonForNewtown) for more information. I hope to have your support for Legislative Council (D3) on November 5th.

Respectfully,

Alison Plante

7 Winding Brook Road, Newtown October 2, 2019