The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper.
My name is Joe Rizzo, as a candidate for Haddam selectman I am writing to ask for your vote on November 5th. One of the most important issues I will face head on is the economic development of Higganum Center and the continued careful development of Tylerville. These are key aspects to the health of Haddam. I will look to use the resources our town already has available to help us continue to build a strong foundation and demand for small businesses in our centers. We have the unique distinction of two endcap villages, Tylerville and Higganum. Our villages have open spaces surrounding them and in between, including Haddam Meadows State Park which draws in folks from far and wide. I believe we can bring people to Haddam with minimal improvements and some enthusiastic advocating, which I have the energy to lead.
As your selectman, I will encourage ecotourism activities to areas like the Higganum Cove, the waterfall on Depot road, the swing bridge and Eagle Landing in Tylerville, and the Higganum Reservoir. I have already started working with a mountain bike trail designer to generate ideas for increasing the use of Swan Hill. Such simple improvements will bring active, outdoor-oriented people directly to our town center and to our businesses for shopping and mingling. A group of community members and I, with the help of local businesses and resources can be ready to break ground on this project in the spring. This is an immediate project that will pique interest in our town this summer. I believe we can leverage our rich natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities to define Haddam as a destination in the short term, and a place to settle and raise families in the long term.
We are a tight-knit, well-rounded community that continues to build and demonstrate a dedication to our town in a way that I have not seen anywhere else. I love our town. Whether in agreement or disagreement with all of eachother’s ideas, the improvement of our community for future generations is what binds us together. I will take all of your views into consideration. I will listen to each and every one of you as well as bring your concerns to the fore. I will be steadfast in my pursuit to use the wonderful resources we have right in front of us to bolster our potential as a town.
Please come out and vote for the future of Haddam on November 5th.
Joe Rizzo
You have my vote, for the future of Haddam.