Joseph E. Borst

(R)

 

Personal Information: Joseph E. Borst, Newtown resident for 48 years, married 49 years, five children — all graduates of the Newtown School System –– ten grandchildren, retired Aerospace management, part-time bus driver for Newtown Board of Education; BA, psychology, Middlebury College, MS, education, WestConn; member of St Rose Church. Councilman for 12 years, treasurer, Newtown Housing for the Elderly; Board of Education liaison for Legislative Council; member, Newtown Forest Association; former member of Board of Selectmen, four years, and Charter Revision Commission –– twice; former chairman of Public Building & Site Committee, six years.

What personal qualities do you have that you believe will benefit the Legislative Council and the community it serves? Integrity, responsible, reliable, and good listener.

What do you believe is the council’s biggest challenge over the next two years? In the face of diminishing state revenues, the council will have to work in close collaboration with the Board of Finance to keep budgets in line so as to minimize the impact on taxes.

What can the Legislative Council do to limit the growth of Newtown’s tax rate? Revise town ordinance relative to tax assessments for seniors so they can afford to remain in their homes; in conjunction with the Board of Finance and the Conservation Commission, develop definitive plans for the acquisition of open space; actively support the Conservation Commission in a proactive plan to encourage the farmers in town to consider the sale of property development rights while retaining their property; support aggressive economic development of existing commercial properties.