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Asking for Chester’s Support

My name is Lauren Gister, and I ask for Chester’s support as Democratic candidate for first selectman in the upcoming election. Many of your readers know me through my law practice: writing wills, refinancing homes, helping people with everyday problems, and resolving conflicts. I served for 25 years in the U.S. Marine Corps as an enlisted Marine and officer—leading, training, and planning for contingencies and crisis management. I have put three daughters through Chester and Region 4 schools, been active in parent organizations, baked cookies for school activities, done makeup for musical productions, and led a local Girl Scout troop. During my 20 years in Chester, I’ve been an active participant in our business community, synagogue, and with families and veterans.

Many families in our community have gone through financial difficulties in the past few years, including my own. I’ve come out of them, know what it’s like, and I’m excited to move forward in planning for and accomplishing positive goals for Chester’s future.

Chester offers an outstanding quality of life and a vibrant community spirit, but there is great concern about the health of our town, financially and socially. We must keep taxes low while providing necessary services to our citizens. We need a government that is transparent, listens carefully, and encourages the input and participation of a maximum number of people.

As a mediator, I have experience in working with different constituencies to build consensus wherever possible. We must be creative in examining ideas and proposals, plan carefully for the future, and learn from the past. I will serve the Town of Chester by completing projects already in process, maintaining great schools for our children, and taking a critical look at spending. I hope for your readers’ support.

Lauren Gister

Chester