To The Editor:

Going back to 1981, Newtown has benefitted from very strong representation in the 106th House District. First Mae Schmidle, then for 18 years Julia Wasserman, followed by Chris Lyddy and now since 2013 Mitch Bolinsky. Mitch works hard, picks up the phone when you call, and follows through. His opponent, Michelle Embree Ku, possesses the same skills. I have served alongside Michelle on the Legislative Council, and no one works harder to research an issue and strenuously argue her point. Politely, but strenuously.

We will need her energy and diligence in Newtown in the next legislative session as we decide whether to build a new middle school. How much money we receive in state reimbursement to defray our construction costs will be pivotal. Michelle was on the Board of Education when the new Sandy Hook Elementary School was built. She understands the construction process, how to maximize reimbursement rates, and the importance of networking in Hartford, where she already has good political contacts. I would expect her to begin attending School Building Committee meetings after she is elected to best position herself to work for us. She has earned my vote.

For the 28th District Senate seat, Rob Blanchard impresses me. He just moved to Newtown from Fairfield but has numerous contacts in Hartford. Again, that’s just what Newtown needs … politicians in Hartford who will look out for us. This is an open seat and it’s in Newtown’s best interests that Rob wins.

Lastly, regardless of who you support, please take time between now and Election Day to vote.

These comments are my own and do not represent any board or committee that I proudly serve on.

Chris Gardner

Newtown