To The Editor:

I strongly support Jim Gaston for re-election to the Board of Finance. He has served nearly 16 years as Chair/Vice-Chair of the Board of Finance and four years on the Board of Selectmen, including Newtown’s most difficult period, 12/14.

I have known Jim and Stephanie Gaston for nearly 30 years. Over the past 25 years they have done an incredible amount of volunteer work for the Town and Borough of Newtown. Jim is one of the most experienced elected officials in our town. With him at the helm of the Board of Finance, the school and town budgets have experienced passing on the first attempt showcasing efficiency and leadership. His ideas and leadership helped create a Borough Historic District that has served to protect Main Street historic properties, including Mary Hawley’s home, threatened by developers wanting to build 70 condominiums or apartments in our Borough Historic District.

Jim has a double major in finance and economics and a minor in government from Lehigh University. Despite being a top trial lawyer in the State of Connecticut, he has always made room to give back to our community. Whether the Borough or Town, Jim is indeed considerate with taxpayer’s money.

While Jim and I may differ on certain national political issues, local government operates on a very different level — one rooted in practical solutions, community needs, and day-to-day impact. Jim brings a clear, unwavering belief that at the local level, the taxpayer is the customer — and every decision should reflect this. His ability to rise above partisan differences and focuses on what truly benefits the community is what makes him an exceptional leader of Newtown.

I strongly encourage your vote for Jim Gaston for Board of Finance. It doesn’t matter whether you are Republican, Democrat, Unaffiliated or Independent. On the Board of Finance, it’s all about Finance, and Jim Gaston will keep it that way.

Betsy Stewart Kenyon

Newtown