To the Editor:

Since we moved to Newtown five years ago we have seen our property taxes shoot up 40 percent. We don’t mind the tax hikes as long as we believe the money is going toward educational improvements and worthwhile community investments. Since we’ve lived here, I haven’t had a sense that there is a crisp, detailed, long-term financial plan for our wonderful town. I’ve gotten the impression that there are a lot of small groups with worthwhile causes but no one is taking a proactive leadership role to review the needs of the residents and make the tough fiscally responsible decisions that will keep our town happy and prosperous. We have challenges and opportunities ahead of us. We need a town leader that will act promptly on those decisions and get things done.

I recently met Bill Sheluck and his family during this campaign. I was instantly impressed. Listening to Bill talk, you can see how his prior corporate experience has made him a leader. Bill is likeable and has a passion for the job and an affinity for the town. He seems like the type of person who can work out a consensus or compromise among diverse groups and he appears to have the courage to make the tough decisions that will benefit us all without wasting our tax dollars. 

David Budd

15 Pond Brook Road, Newtown                              October 29, 2003