To The Editor:

As a reintroduction for those who may not know me, I have been a Newtown resident since 1995, when my wife, Ann, and I moved here with our children, Alex (Chuck) and Abbey. Like many, we were drawn by Newtown’s beauty, small-town charm, and excellent schools.

Over the years, our family has been deeply touched by the kindness of our neighbors, teachers, and friends, especially during difficult times with our son. The compassion and generosity we received were beyond words, and I will always be grateful.

That experience inspired me to give back to this community that has given us so much. It’s why I first ran for the Legislative Council representing District 3 and why I’m seeking re-election today.

In recent years, many Newtown families have felt the strain of rising food and energy costs, along with a significant property tax increase this past year, which I opposed. More residents are facing financial pressures, struggling to pay taxes, or relying on local food banks. Meanwhile, the tax burden continues to shift away from commercial properties and onto homeowners.

If re-elected, I will continue to serve as a fiscally responsible steward of your tax dollars. My focus will remain on funding essential services that keep our infrastructure safe, our residents protected, and our schools strong. Fiscal responsibility doesn’t mean cutting valued programs, it means delivering quality services efficiently and cost-effectively so we don’t add to the growing tax burden on Newtown families.

Before serving on the Council, I spent nearly 40 years in supply chain operations, managing domestic and international contracts for transportation, manufacturing, and procurement. I was responsible for billions in capital spending and learned how to balance quality with cost under tight budgets, experience I now apply to every town budget decision.

I would be honored to continue representing you on the Legislative Council for District 3 and respectfully ask for your vote, along with my fellow District 3 candidates, Ben Ruben and Tracey Pertoso. Together, we will keep Newtown a place we’re proud to call home.

John Zachos

Newtown