Speaking Of Cronyism

To the Editor:

Mr Rosenthal’s letter to The Bee characterizing The Independent Party of Newtown as “cronies who attack anyone disagreeing with their agenda” is a little like the “pot calling the kettle black” [“Half Truths And Outright Falsehoods,” 10/3/08].

Cronyism has been a taboo subject in Newtown. Eyebrows were raised concerning appointments but mum was the gentleman’s word in Newtown. Mr Rosenthal has lifted the lid on this practice and it is apparently acceptable to discuss. Thank you Mr Rosenthal!

“Cronyism is partiality to longstanding friends, especially by appointing them to positions of authority, regardless of their qualifications. Cronyism exists when the appointer and the beneficiary are in social contact; often, the appointer is inadequate to hold his or her own job or position of authority, and for this reason the appointer appoints individuals who will not try to weaken him or her, or express views contrary to those of the appointer. Politically, ‘cronyism’ is derogatorily used.” Wikipedia

The facts:

The IPN has yet to have the privilege of appointing even one person to a board or commission. The elected IPN supporters personally gathered signatures to get on last November’s ballots. No cronyism here.

Perhaps the most egregious case of cronyism is the Newtown Board of Finance. Three out of the six BOF members are in the same country club. Coincidently Ben Spragg, Mr Rosenthal’s past finance director, is also a member and past president of the same club. Mr Kortze, chairman of the BOF, is treasurer of the club. Michael Portney, BOF member, is a member and past president. Martin Gersten, recently appointed to the BOF by Mr Rosenthal is, you guessed it, the current president of the country club.

The list goes on and on.

Mr Rosenthal, Selectman Brimmer, and Legislative Council Chairman Rodgers’ spouses were all appointed to the same Newtown commission. Mr Rodgers’ spouse was simultaneously on the Fairfield Hills Authority while Mr Rosenthal’s spouse was additionally appointed to the library board.

Mr Madzula, recently appointed to the FFHA, is also the FFHA chairman’s personal architect and recently provided a bid to repair the chairman’s barn for $240,000. Mr Madzula’s spouse is on the building board of managers along with the spouse of another member of the FFHA.

Let me be clear I am not saying that these appointed officials are not capable. We are indebted to their service and the countless hours of work on behalf of Newtown. I am saying that we have over 14,000 voters in Newtown and there are other talented and qualified residents who should be considered. Let’s share the power and stop the cronyism.

Mr Rosenthal has perfected the art of cronyism and it is ironic that he would now mischaracterize the Independent Party of Newtown as a bunch of cronies rather than the change agents that they are. Perhaps the real issue is he feels his grip on power slipping through his fingers, as the voters demand change, one election at a time.

Bruce Walczak

12 Glover Avenue, Newtown                                  November 11, 2008