To the Editor:

I’m writing this letter to support Herb Rosenthal as Newtown’s first selectman. In 1999 a group of dedicated volunteers was asked by Mr Rosenthal to help promote the acquisition of open space for the town of Newtown. This new Open Space Task Force would identify and plan for Newtown’s potential open space purchases. Since then, more than 30 town residents have dedicated thousands of hours to create one of the area’s most comprehensive open space plans.

The creation of this task force has allowed for the significant purchase of open space in the town, as well as the creation of an open space preserve utilizing a state grant. The task force’s 2002 report on open space is one of the core pieces of the new Plan of Conservation and Development for the town. With research for an open space bond issue currently underway (the passage of which could fund larger and more numerous acquisitions of open space), the task force is poised to accomplish its core purpose for the benefit of current and future Newtown residents.

Like Mr Rosenthal and many Newtown residents, I believe in the aggressive pursuit of open space acquisition in order to preserve our town’s natural resources, its historic places, its rural character, and its opportunities for passive recreation and high quality of living. Mr Rosenthal has always worked to give the task force all it needs to continue its charge; because of his leadership, I know that Newtown’s open space priorities are being set forth for future generations to enjoy.

Robert Sibley

Chairman

Open Space Task Force

195 Berkshire Road, Sandy Hook                          October 28, 2003