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11/01/2017 08:00 AMAt a time when national leadership is shaky at best, we in Killingworth can take comfort in the knowledge that our town’s first selectman, Cathy Iino, runs a steady, forward-looking, transparent office. Cathy’s approach is neither dramatic nor partisan. It is pragmatic and inclusive.
In providing steady governance, Cathy has worked with all segments of the community including both political parties. Much town work is done by volunteers on boards, committees, and commissions. Filling those positions takes a willingness to seek the best across political lines, something Cathy has always done.
Working with town groups and securing state grants, Cathy has seen several facilities added or renovated during her tenure. These include Parmelee Farm, the Emergency Operations Center, Sheldon Park, and our newest, the War Memorial Garden. All of these projects incorporated the work of dedicated volunteers. It does take a village, a village with inclusive leadership.
Because a small town’s finances and educational policies are often impacted by state actions, Cathy has represented the town in regional and state organizations. These include the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities and CIRMA; she is on both boards of directors. Small town representation is essential to balance the larger voices of Connecticut’s cities.
Without local newspapers, it’s hard for towns like ours to keep their constituents informed about local issues. In the interest of transparency and information, Cathy initiated a monthly Krier column, a biweekly Source column, a Citizen’s Budget Guide, and monthly coffee meets at local eateries.
I’ve heard the remark “It’s time for change.” Change just for change isn’t a rationale for something as important as governance. We have good governance under good leadership now. I encourage your readers to join me in voting for Cathy Iino and an outstanding, gifted slate on Nov. 7 to continue both—vote Row A.
Kathleen Amoia
Killingworth