The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received October 30, 2021.
Dear Neighbors,
In the upcoming election in Killingworth, Nancy Gorski is running unopposed by any Democratic candidate and is likely the next First Selectman. This is great news for Killingworth, as new leadership is desperately needed. With a Republican First Selectman, the Democratic party is ensured of at least one seat due to the minority rules in the Town Charter, leaving one seat up for the top vote earner. For that open seat, it is vital to return Eileen Blewett back to the Board of Selectmen to help Nancy with the important work that needs to be done. Cutting through the noise and false narratives that the other party has whipped up, anyone who knows Eileen has seen her has a tireless volunteer and outspoken voice of common sense on the Board of Selectmen. Examples are many, but since her current term started, the Selectmen and Board of Finance have started to fully fund the Capital reserve fund. Essentially the long term savings account to prepare for upcoming projects. This is after years of being underfunded by the current majority. To be blunt, Nancy will need Eileen on the Board to finally get something done.
Let me illustrate this with an example from a recent Killingworth Board of Selectmen meeting (October 12, 2021) when there was a discussion about some “urgent” repairs needed to the Town Hall building, including air handling units and siding on the modules attached to the original building. First Selectwoman Iino hoped to move forward with these urgent repairs, which is incredible given she had less than one month left in office. The topic touched off an animated discussion about the condition of the building and lack of any ongoing maintenance. During the discussion, Selectman Annino stated if he puts on his “Facilities Manager Hat” implying he has some facilities expertise from his professional life. During the discussion, Selectman Annino also mentioned that a discussion about a long-term capital plan was long overdue and that they just “haven’t gotten to it.” This is an incredible admission given that he and First Selectwoman Iino have held the majority on the Board of Selectman for a decade. Ten years ago, the Town Hall was considered an urgent priority, but voters turned down a plan for a brand new Town Hall. Instead of seeking less costly alternatives, the First Selectwoman and Selectman Annino proceeded to do nothing, and the modules are now crumbling from lack of maintenance. During all this time, the residents should ask Annino where his Facilities Manager Hat has been all these years?
No one can question Mr. Annino’s commitment to the town and especially his service to our country. For that he is owed our gratitude. But now is the time for action, and we must have Eileen on the Board of Selectmen, so that we can tackle the large challenges ahead.
Sincerely,
Graig Judge
Killingworth
