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Disagreement on Record

In the Oct. 21 story “Incumbent Democrat Peggy Lyons Seeks Re-election to First Selectman Seat,” First Selectman Peggy Lyons is quoted as stating, “I would put my record up against my predecessor [Republican Tom Banisch], who had the job for four years. I have accomplished significantly more than my predecessor ...”

I disagree. During my four years in office, we focused on energy efficiency measures with replacement of fluorescent lamps at various town facilities reducing consumption by 40 percent. We initiated and directed a new Senior Tax Freeze Ordinance to aid Madison seniors. We developed a 20-year plan to fully fund pensions.

We made the town planner the director of planning and economic development, creating a new department to address Grand List and commercial growth without adding more people. We paved almost twice as many roads as the town did in the prior nine years. We focused on infrastructure projects: cleaning storm drains and building sidewalks on Bradley Road and renovating the Tuxis Walkway. Both projects were paid for by grants we received. We closed out open projects and brought new ones in on time and under budget. We started developing a long term strategic plan.

I use the word “we,” not “I”. It is not a singular effort.

Tom Banisch

Surfside Beach, South Carolina