To The Editor:

In this year’s local elections, my choice for Selectman is Charlie Gardner. Yes, Charlie’s demonstrated his commitment to the town and to sound governance during his time on the Legislative Council and other boards, and yes, Charlie is unique among the candidates for Board of Selectmen in having experience both in housing policy and in conservation work, but he’s also a dad with children in our public schools who’s invested in Newtown’s educational system and what sort of future the town will provide for the next generation.

Newtown residents have been facing cost pressures not just from growing tax burdens, but from rising rents and increasing home prices that threaten to erode Newtown’s character as a place of opportunity for people looking to raise a family, start their own business, or retire comfortably. Charlie understands these challenges and, more importantly, has the experience, knowledge, and dedication to address them.

The issues facing our town won’t solve themselves, nor will they go away by our denying or ignoring them. We need leadership that’s ready to address them, and Charlie has proven that he’s right for the job. I hope you’ll join me in voting for him!

Tiffany Hawley

Newtown