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It’s About the Residents

I have read that Mayor Joseph Maturo, Jr., has called for the resignation of two members of the Planning & Zoning Commission for their support of a project [the Sperry Lane housing proposal]. Maturo said if he can’t rely on appointed officials to carry out the recommendations and philosophy of the elected officials, then they serve no good purpose to the administration.

Really? These are residents who take time out of their private lives to serve the town’s interest not the mayor’s. Directing a vote is not a recommendation, it is an order more befitting a dictator of a third world country. This is the first project that I’m aware of where a mayor’s appointed police chief, fire chief, and assistant town attorney have put their respective concerns about a project in writing at the same time. These concerns may very well be legitimate, but were they ordered to this now when they originally voiced no opinion when the project was initially introduced?

Regardless, two commissioners felt it was a good project for the town even after being presented with these letters and they should be allowed to express their opinions without fear of repercussion. Maturo also reportedly said boards and commissions should cede to the recommendation of the administration and should be answerable to someone. They are, to the public. After 17 years in office, doesn’t Maturo understand it’s about the residents and not him? This is yet another example of his self-absorption.

Marc Conte, Sr.

East Haven