To The Editor:

Over the past two decades, Jeff Capeci has earned the trust of the people of Newtown through his dedication to serving the town, and that trust was reflected in his election to the position of First Selectman two years ago. This year, residents have the opportunity not only to re-elect Jeff, but to elect Charlie Gardner to serve with him on the Board of Selectmen and help continue the good work Jeff has begun.

Newtowners have already seen Jeff and Charlie work together as an uncommonly level-headed duo on the Legislative Council, where they served as Chair and Vice-Chair. Under their leadership, Fairfield Hills was set on a voter-approved course toward renovation and re-use, work which Jeff has continued as First Selectman. Working within the limits of an efficient town budget, Jeff has shepherded the town through the severe flooding of August 2024, and has used town employees, rather than outside contractors, to complete projects like the pickleball courts without major expense to taxpayers.

Even the energy bills for town facilities have been reduced to next to nothing with the no-cost installation of solar panels on town-owned buildings, saving Newtowners tens of thousands of dollars in electrical costs.

This sort of steady, prudent, and effective leadership is exactly what Newtown needs in the years ahead, and residents are fortunate to have Jeff and Charlie on the ballot. Consider what they have already achieved for Newtown, and if you feel like I do that they are the right choice for the town’s next two years, please support them with your vote.

Mary Atkinson

Sandy Hook