To The Editor:

The change to the title of my previous letter, from “Will Drew, P&Z Candidate asking for the Democrat vote” to “Will Drew Running for Planning and Zoning”, was a telling moment. My initial title was carefully chosen to initiate a specific conversation and reach a specific group of voters. When a candidate’s message is altered, even unintentionally, it highlights a crucial issue: the fundamental importance of allowing every voice in our community to be heard, precisely as intended.

This incident serves as a clear symbol of my core belief, that effective local governance depends on allowing every citizen to speak their truth, unfiltered.

The truth is, I’ve heard the voices of Democrats and Republicans across Newtown. Your concerns about thoughtful development, smart growth, and preserving our town’s unique character are virtually unanimous. The partisan divide we often see is an artificial barrier to achieving our shared goals.

I am running for the Planning and Zoning Commission because I believe we need a governing body committed to listening first. If elected, you can be sure I will honor that principle. I will ensure residents are heard and that we work together, beyond labels, to achieve our common vision for Newtown’s future. Let’s start by ensuring every message, from every candidate and every citizen, reaches the community whole and unchanged.

Will Drew

Newtown

Editor’s Note: The title of the letter writer’s previous letter was not intentionally altered. That said, The Newtown Bee does reserve the right to edit or make changes to all submissions at the editor’s discretion.