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11/01/2023 08:00 AMAfter Peggy Lyons’ initial term as first selectman, I wrote a letter suggesting that voters imagine the Town of Madison not as a political entity but as a substantial corporation with Peggy as its CEO. I concluded that based on her performance during the COVID crisis and in laying the foundation for a return to progress for our town, the shareholders would not think for a minute about replacing such a talented leader.
I believe that reasoning has even more relevance today. The much-needed school renewal and Academy Community Center projects are moving forward after years of delay. Everywhere you look — our parks, the Surf Club, downtown – the small projects that improve our quality of life are being ticked off Peggy’s list. Our schools are rated number one in New Haven County and eighth in the state.
Financial performance is critical for a chief executive. Given Peggy’s education and career in the financial industry, her record there is not surprising: Madison has received over $13 million in grants, leading to savings for taxpayers, mill rates are stable despite economic uncertainty, and town operating costs have been contained.
There have been comments on the fact that Madison currently has $22 million in undesignated funds in the bank. But that buffer is key to maintaining Madison’s AAA credit rating, avoiding expensive bond issuance for small capital projects, and is simply prudent in these hazardous times. The next super-storm, the next pandemic, the next flood that backs sewage onto Route 1, Madison residents will be glad that Peggy and bipartisan town boards have saved for a rainy day.
I believe Madison’s stock is at an all-time high, and Peggy’s forward-thinking leadership, decisiveness, and financial skill will keep it there. I encourage your readers to re-elect Peggy Lyons on Tuesday, Nov. 7.
Paul Kessinger
Madison