To The Editor:

I’m writing to voice my support for Barney Molloy’s re-election to Newtown’s Board of Finance. During the past term with his years of experience in finance, government, and non-profit management he’s delivered noticeable results, which have helped to “raise the bar” in the BOF’s oversight of Newtown’s finances.

He created a joint budget workgroup that brought elected boards and town departments together to eliminate redundant spending and find consolidation opportunities. This collaborative approach has helped identify cost savings without sacrificing service delivery. During annual budget reviews, he’s insisted on accuracy, refusing to support budget requests, or revenue projections that “didn’t add up.”

Barney has effectively negotiated both school and town budgets, (just watch some of the budget meetings,) consistently balancing necessary funding with what residents can afford. He helped select our Finance Director to ensure professional fiscal leadership, that’s revealed some gaps in the Town’s fiscal management. Barney’s also advocated for expanded capital planning, so we can forecast long-term costs and avoid expensive emergency borrowing that drives up taxes.

The Board of Finance shouldn’t work in isolation. That’s why Barney pushed for the Joint Budget Workshop, creating a platform where our elected officials can openly address Newtown’s financial challenges with transparency, and residents can see the process in action. Whether addressing economic development, Fairfield Hills, or conservation decisions, he engages regularly with other boards to ensure that the fiscal impacts are considered, and that residents are made aware of them.

Newtown’s bond ratings and financial position depend on independent, non-partisan leadership focused on smart spending, generating revenue, and minimizing taxes. Barney’s proven experience and results-oriented approach has and will continue serving Newtown well.

If you want a more professional and transparent Board of Finance, I encourage you to vote with me for Barney Molloy on November 4th.

Glen McMurdo

Newtown