The ‘Common Sense’ Choice

Is Overlooked

To the Editor:

I read that Cindy Simon was retiring as town clerk in August. Good for her. She deserves it. The obvious choice for her replacement is Susan Shpunt, who has been in the office as assistant town clerk one month less than Cindy has been in office as “the” town clerk. That would require common sense, which seems to be somewhat lacking at the town hall these days.

The first selectman is charged with appointing a new town clerk to serve until the elections in November. Mr Rosenthal instead chose to turn the decision over to the Republican Town Committee.

But, unfortunately, the Republican Registrar of Voters’ daughter works in the town clerk’s office. Even though Debbie [Aurelia] has very little experience or tenure, she was chosen to succeed Cindy by a committee that included not only Debbie’s mother, but Cindy Simon’s husband. Sounds a lot like nepotism.

This is an example that reminds one of the cronyism that takes place in Washington. That has worked out well, hasn’t it?

I wonder how correct the warranty deeds will be filed? Will the properties under foreclosure have the right description or will the foreclosure be for another property than the one intended? These mistakes can and do happen but fortunately someone was there to keep control. Will that still happen? Perhaps the title searchers, who need assistance with maps, will magically be able to find them by themselves.

This is certainly a careless decision on Herb’s part to allow this to happen. Herb is responsible for having the departments under his control be diligent in serving the taxpayers in Newtown. Will the town clerk’s office still be efficiently serving those needs in the near future?

Cathy Sullivan

109 Haley Lane, Sandy Hook                                           May 21, 2007