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Prepared for the Challenge

My name I Rick Swan and I’m running for Board of Finance in Old Saybrook. I am as home-grown as you can get. I was raised here where my family operated the local funeral home. I raised my three children here and they attended the Old Saybrook school system, obtaining the skills needed to attend college.

I was a town communications officer, police officer, and volunteer firefighter. As the deputy fire chief, I managed the department’s budget and capital outlay expenditures. I worked hard to offer the best possible services at a reasonable cost. I also enjoyed working as a volunteer member of our ambulance service. I later served on the board of directors overseeing this dedicated professional service.

I continued in public safety as the chief of emergency services on Plum Island. Later, I was recruited by a fortune 250 Company, where I supervised sites in five states with more than 300 employees, while managing a $21 million annual operating budget. I am currently a Connecticut fire coordinator with a total of 37 years in public safety.

Under our current leadership of First Selectman Carl Fortuna, Jr., Selectman Scott Giegerich, and Treasurer Bob Fish, our town has been very fortunate. We are now prepared for the challenge of reduced state funding, while maintaining a low mill rate, but a high bond rating. Our town buildings, schools, parks, and beaches have all been renovated and maintained under this leadership. My knowledge of the town, its budget process, and all our dedicated volunteer groups keeps me motivated to maintain our small-town charm.

With the uncertainty of the financial future it’s now time to watch our pennies even closer. I encourage your readers to vote to elect Carol Rzasa, Tom Stevenson, and myself to the Board of Finance on Election Day.

Rick Swan

Old Saybrook

Republican Rick Swan is seeking a seat on the Board of Finance.