To The Editor:

In 2005, Jeff Capeci and I were newcomers on the Legislative Council. We sat side by side for those first two years, listening to the more veteran council members, learning the language of policy, process, politics, and more. Jeff impressed me then and continued to do so in later years as Council Chair, and Selectman.

Several attributes come quickly to mind when considering Jeff. He is consistent, serious, thoughtful, and well-studied. Jeff displays a seriousness of purpose and clarity of vision that underlie his actions and decisions, qualities that serve Newtown well. He is steadfast in pursuit of goals, evident quite clearly in the progress advancing Fairfield Hills toward mixed use development. He is grounded in the commitment to manage the town’s finances wisely and weighs the burden of taxes when prioritizing and promoting budgets.

Remember Jeff’s unwavering nonsupport for a municipal budget enhanced over his objections. I know well that every administration faces uphill battles for the soul and sense of the community. Communication gaps, differences of opinion, and conflicting values haunt and threaten collegiality. So, what’s Newtown likely to get under a second Capeci term?

Progress at Fairfield Hills, fiscal responsibility, careful planning, a seriousness of purpose and clarity of vision. Every problem will not be solved and differences in vision and purpose will still be present and will be a social media topic. But, the bottom line and the smart line say return Capeci as First Selectman.

Pat Llodra

Middlebury