To the Editor:

I served as a member of the Charter Revision Commission in 2000–2001. It was a pleasure for me to work with this fine group of individuals as we discussed and came to consensus on numerous recommended changes to our town’s charter. Bill Sheluck served as chairman of that commission. He instituted public participation at both the beginning and end of each meeting, he helped to keep us on track throughout our deliberations, brought in neighboring town government members to investigate all the alternatives forms, and interviewed nearly all of Newtown’s governing bodies. Bill is thorough, investigates all the alternatives, wants what is best for the people of Newtown, and he is a tireless worker.

We were a diverse group of Republicans, Democrats (Herb’s father, Jack Rosenthal, was a member of the commission), and unaffiliated individuals who lived in Newtown for vastly differing amounts of time. Bill Sheluck was the person with the skills to bring us all together. We need a uniting force in Newtown so we all can feel a part of this town –– not as outsiders looking in on the “few.” Bill is the man to make that happen. Join me in voting for Bill Sheluck on November 4.

Sincerely,

Kevin O’Neill

28 Washbrook Road, Newtown                                October 21, 2003