To The Editor:

As former Town Clerk for the Town of Newtown for 20 years, I feel qualified to endorse Debbie Aurelia Halstead to continue as Newtown’s Town Clerk. In February 2005, Debbie came to my office to interview for the position of Assistant Town Clerk. Her motivation and determination to “move up the ladder” and become Town Clerk when I retired, was refreshing.

When I retired in 2007, Debbie had already attended every State and Municipal Clerk class available to her. Fast forward 18 years and she has earned every State and Municipal Clerk certification that exists.

When Debbie became Town Clerk in 2007, the technology in the Town Clerk’s office was just beginning to enter the 21st century. She has now completed loading all of Newtown’s 300+ years of Land Records online, making those records fully accessible to the public. An impressive feat for sure!!

Debbie has amassed 18 years of networking with State Officials and her Town Clerk peers, earning their respect and support. The Town Clerk is mandated by the Town’s Charter to perform specific duties as well as a multitude of Statutory duties mandated by the Secretary of the State. It is important to note that the Town Clerk position is not just a 9 to 5 job. Your Town Clerk must be available 24/7 to provide the citizens with whatever emergency needs they may have and there are plenty of those “after hours” needs!

On that day in February 2005, Debbie set her goals for her future and that of the Town Clerk’s office. She has met those goals and exceeded all my expectations of her. Debbie has demonstrated her commitment and devotion to Newtown’s citizens for the past 18 years as your Town Clerk and will continue to serve with that same determination. Re-elect Debbie Aurelia Halstead!

Cynthia S. Curtis

Anthony, Fla.