Editor's Note: The first of two letters this week from this contributor is being published outside The Newtown Bee's general guidelines because it was received on time for print publication last week but was withheld due to a technical issue.

To the Editor:

I have been honored to serve my fellow Newtowners the past four years on the Board of Selectmen. Dan, Maureen and I have worked very well together. We have had great bipartisan successes including keeping taxation flat, rebuilding road infrastructure and reducing debt by paying certain capital expenses upfront rather than through bonding.

Previously I served on the Legislative Council, a seat I seek again this election cycle. As chair, I led the LC to amend the Town charter to bifurcate the annual budget. Prior to this change, the budget was presented to voters as a single bottom line number. In the event of a failure, the LC could only speculate why it was voted down.

Now voters can inform the LC why, should they reject either the municipal or education budget and their reason(s) for doing so. The old paradigm lead to tumultuous cycles requiring multiple referenda to secure a budget. Since this change, all budgets have passed at a single referendum.

If elected to the Legislative Council again, I will proudly represent the Third District. I will listen to my constituents and I will use their insight and my years of community service to make the right decisions for our community. I will focus on keeping it nicer in Newtown for everyone. I am humbled to once again ask for your vote and for your support for my running mates Phil Carrol and Tom Long and the entire Republican team on Tuesday November 2.

Respectfully,

Jeff Capeci

Newtown