October 29, 2009

THEOctober 29, 2009 DARIEN TIMES, THURSDAY, NOV. 3, 2011

Election 2011

Page 13A Page 13A

Page 11A

Five of these seven Darienites will be elected Tuesday to the Board of Selectmen, the towns executive body, for two years. Page 12A.

Compiled as a public service by the Darien League of Women Voters, presented by The Darien Times

Darien Voters Guide

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization founded in 1920. Its mission is to promote responsible political action through informed participation of all citizens. The Darien League of Women Voters sent questionnaires to municipal candidates competing for a seat on the five elected town bodies. Responses were limited to word counts. Answers are printed exactly as submitted. Any responses over the word limit were edited to end with a complete sentence. Below are descriptions of the boards and commission holding elections on Tuesday, Nov. 8. The following pages feature the questions and answers for all candidates who responded. serve as state officials. The Board of Ed is an independent authority responsible for formulating education policy and administering the operation of the school system. Its annual appropriation must be approved by the Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting through the general budget adoption process. Each year, three members of the Board of Ed are elected. All candidates this year for the board are unopposed. To win the election a candidate must receive at least one vote. Voters will be asked to elect two of the three candidates to serve a three-year term. SEE PAGE 13A

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Handicap voting machines are available at each poll location. Check with the polling moderator to inquire about any write-in candidates. Since these candidates registered late, you will not be given information on their candidacies unless requested. If you are not sure of your voting location, you can check online at darienct. gov (Click on Registrars of Voters) or call the Registrars of Voters at 656-7316. DarienTimes.com also features a link. Remember to bring proper identification to the polls. Acceptable identification includes a drivers license, social security card or any other pre-printed form which shows name and local address, signature or photograph. A registered voter may also sign Form ED-681, Signatures of Electors who did not present ID, under penalty of false statement if inaccurate. Out-of-state drivers licenses will not be accepted. If your name does not appear on the list of registered voters, speak with the assistant registrar or moderator at your polling location and they will pursue the matter immediately. If you are not registered, you cannot vote in Novembers election. Because of the past weekends snow storm, the governor extended in-person registrations to noon on Monday, Nov. 7.

Dont forget...

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals hears taxpayers cases for adjusting the Grand List values determined for their properties. The candidate for the Board of Assessment Appeals is unopposed. SEE PAGE 15A

Constables

First Selectman & Board of Selectmen

Planning & Zoning Commission

The primary role of an elected constable is properly to serve legal notices to town residents so they may respond to the governmental organization or agency having jurisdiction. There are four candidates for three posts. Voters will be asked to vote for two. SEE PAGE 13A The town clerk directs the administrative work of the town according to state statutes. Examples are issuing and filing of licenses, permits, filing town minutes and keeping town records. The candidate for town clerk is unopposed SEE PAGE 13A

The Board of Selectmen race is one of two contested elections in Darien this year. It is the executive branch of the town government, and is made up of the first selectman and four selectmen. All selectmen are elected every two years to serve a two-year term. This year, three candidates are vying for first selectman, and four candidates are running for selectman positions. Darien election law for this particular race, however, is unusual in that the candidates who lose the first selectman race automatically become part of the race for selectmen. The top four vote-getters from this, slightly expanded, pool of candidates will win seats on the board. The ballot asks voters to elect one candidate for first selectman and two candidates for selectman. SEE PAGE 12A.

The six-member Planning & Zoning Commission has authority to adopt a Town Plan and to legislate zoning and subdivision regulations. It is virtually independent of other bodies in town government in performing its legislative, executive and quasi-judicial functions. All the candidates for the board are unopposed. On the ballot, voters will be asked to choose two of the three candidates listed to serve four-year terms. To win the election a candidate must receive at least one vote. SEE PAGE 13A

Town Clerk

Town Treasurer

Representative Town Meeting

As custodian of the towns funds and securities, the town treasurer invests and reinvests them, and manages cash flow. The candidate for town treasurer is unopposed SEE PAGE 13A

Board of Finance

Follow the results as they come in at DarienTimes.com and Twitter.com/DarienTimes

On Election Day

The Board of Finance is responsible for formulating and recommending the towns financial policy. The board is made up of seven members who serve overlapping four year terms. All the candidates for the board are unopposed. To win the election a candidate must receive at least one vote. On the ballot are three candidates for finance board. Voters will be asked to choose two of the three candidates listed to serve a four-year term. SEE PAGE 12A

Board of Education

The nine members of Dariens Board of Education are elected by the town but they

The Representative Town Meeting is determined annually by elector apportionment and cannot exceed 100 members. Legislative powers for the town are vested in this body. Members serve two-year terms, do not get compensated and are not elected based on party affiliation. Its responsibilities include passing laws and ordinances, appropriating money and approving collective bargaining contracts involving town employees. Though any Darien registered voter is eligible for election, it is unusual for any of the vacancies on the RTM to be contested. All candidates for the RTM on this years ballot are unopposed. To win the election a candidate must receive at least one vote. Ballots will vary depending on the voting district. There are write-in candidates in some of the districts, but you must ask at your polling location for information. Write-in candidates must receive a minimum of 25 votes to serve on the RTM. SEE PAGE 14A

Tax Collector

Responsible for assuring the town receives the money due from taxes levied, the tax collector issues tax bills and uses a combination of customer service and legal means to collect payments in a timely manner. The candidate for Tax Collector is unopposed. SEE PAGE 13A

About this Guide

Compiled each year as a public service by the League of Women Voters of Darien and presented by The Darien Times Candidates, by office, are listed in the order they appear on the ballot. Because Connecticut elected a Democrat as governor last year, the Democrats will be in the first ballot row, Row A, for the first time more than 20 years. (i) signifies that the candidate is an incumbent

Representative Town Meeting Attendance Records..

The following are the attendance records for Representative Town Meeting members during the past year. There have been six meetings since the last election but some members have joined since the years session began. The attendance record notes how many meetings the member was eligible for. Candidates on this years ballots are noted with a . Two members died this past year, and are noted with a (dec.). More on the RTM candidates is on page 14A.

District 2

District 1

John A. Bishko: 4 out of 6 Wm. Shedd Glassmeyer: 4 out of 6 Barbara J. Harrington: 1 out of 5 (dec.) Cassandra L. Hegarty: 6 out of 6 Anthony Vincent Imbimbo: 4 out of 6 David H. Kahn: 4 out of 6 Peter K. Kelly: 5 out of 6 Peter W. Nelson: 5 out of 6 Mary K. Ness: 3 out of 6 John Price: 1 out of 4 (dec.) Lois J. Schneider: 6 out of 6 Holly L. Schulz-Amatruda: 6 out of 6 Timothy D. Schwarz: 5 out of 6 John Ralph Sini: Jr. 6 out of 6 Jennifer Sommer: 2 out of 6 Edward Reilly Tierney: 6 out of 6

Elisabeth C. Bacon: 5 out of 6 Dennis Kelly Cummings Jr. 5 out of 6 Joi Reiner Gallo: 5 out of 6 Michael Anton Harman: 6 out of 6 Ted Hilton: 3 out of 3 Kirk P. Hoffman: 6 out of 6 James Henry Howe: 3 out of 6 Martin David Magida: 6 out of 6 Susannah M. Maguire: 4 out of 6 Jeffrey L. Marston: 3 out of 6 Spencer J. McIlmurray: 4 out of 6 Cecelia Mundt: 5 out of 6 Christian Noe: 3 out of 6 Sarah C. Seelye: 5 out of 6 Barbara L. Thorne: 5 out of 6 Marc E. Thorne: 5 out of 6

Dennis J. Maroney: 3 out of 6 David Byron Martens: 5 out of 6 Thomas W. Moore: 6 out of 6 Seth W. Morton: 6 out of 6 Stephen P. Olvany: 5 out of 6 H. William Smith III: 6 out of 6 Robert E. Young Jr.: 5 out of 6

District 4

District 3

Carolyn Golden Bayne: 6 out of 6 Charles Edward Brode: 4 out of 6 Michael J. Burke: 6 out of 6 Robert Cardone: 5 out of 6 Eugene F. Coyle: 4 out of 6 Terrence J. Duffy Jr.: 5 out of 6 Michael A. DUrso: 0 out of 5 Dana H. Fead: 5 out of 6 Maria B. Ferretti: 4 out of 6 Susan E. LeHan: 4 out of 6

Angus James Cameron: 6 out of 6 Maria L. Cleary: 5 out of 6 Joan V. Davis: 6 out of 6 Lucy Fiore: 3 out of 3 Joseph H. Hardison III: 3 out of 3 Frank B. Kemp: 5 out of 6 Nora R. McIlree: 6 out of 6 Andrew C. Millar: 4 out of 6 Carolyn D. Miller: 5 out of 6 Susan E. Morrison: 4 out of 6 William D. Peters III: 1 out of 6 Brian J. Rayhill: 5 out of 6 Anita Rycenga: 6 out of 6 Sandra A. Savage: 5 out of 6 Carolyn P. Schoonmaker: 3 out of 6 Samuel V. Schoonmaker III: 3 out of 6

Adele M. Conniff: 4 out of 6 Mark S. Dailey: 5 out of 6 Jack H. Davis: 6 out of 6 Robert C. George MD: 5 out of 6 Joanne K. Hennessy: 6 out of 6 Diana M. Nizolek: 3 out of 5 Bruce G. Orr Sr.: 5 out of 6 James M. Patrick: 6 out of 6 Janette Pierret: 4 out of 6 Debra McGarry Ritchie: 6 out of 6 Cheryl Russell: 5 out of 6 Karin L. Sharp: 4 out of 6 Allison L. Stolar: 5 out of 6 John W. van der Kieft III: 5 out of 6

District 6

District 5

Mark R. Adiletta: 4 out of 6 Christopher L. Camuti: 2 out of 6

Frank H. Adelman: 6 out of 6 Karen A. Armour: 6 out of 6 Barry R. Baldwin: 5 out of 6 Preston Bealle: 4 out of 6 Diane G. Conologue: 5 out of 6 Janet F. Grogan: 5 out of 6 Mary Guimond: 6 out of 6 Norman G. Guimond: 6 out of 6 Edgar M. Hawkins III: 5 out of 6 Holly Wade Kelly: 6 out of 6 Emily Quinn McDermott: 5 out of 6 John G. McLean Jr.: 4 out of 6 Christa S. McNamara: 5 out of 6 James Robert Palen Jr.: 5 out of 5

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THE DARIEN TIMES, THURSDAY, NOV. 3, 2011

Election 2011..
First Selectman

One of two officially contested town-wide races on Tuesday the first selectman race. The winner of this race leads the Board of Selectmen and serves as the towns chief elected officer. The losers of this race compete with the selectmen candidates for one of those four seats. There is no incumbent in this race. First selectman is a two-year term and is salaried. Vote for One Candidate.

ed to a rigorous Center is a and zero-based value-oriented budget analysis, project: it highincluding capilights the value tal projects and we place on our the operational Seniors; it uses implications of town assets in capital expenan cost-effecditures. I would tive and effisell the property cient way, it at 35 Leroy for provides for What is the most important issue confronting Darien? How do you propose to development the possibiladdress that issue? of inclusive ity of Senior senior housing, Affordable and rebuild an Housing and JAYME STEVENSON appropriately it allows for John A. Lundeen JOHN LUNDEEN sized senior cencentralization Democrat ter at Edgerton of Town and 36 Swifts Lane St. For my qualifications see our website. Board of Education services. Our solid finanLundeenJA@aol.com cial condition allows us to wisely invest while The rapidly expanding budget of the Town, Jayme J. Stevenson construction and financing costs are low. pushing up tax rates. I will continue to support value-investing In the most recent year, the mill rate for Republican in our town infrastructure to preserve and Dariens taxpayers went up by 3.92%, a rate 65 St. Nicholas Road enhance community and property values. higher than 18 other small towns in Fairfield JaymeJS@aol.com County, twice the rate of increase in New We must find a new home for our Senior Christian Noe Canaan. Debt service is rising fast, contribut- Center program. For 12 years, we have activeing to this tax increase. ly studied the issue of what to do about the fail- Ultra-Conservative At a time when many residents are experi- ing facility that currently serves as our Senior 242 Old Kings Highway South encing first-hand the very difficult period in our Center. Darien is committed to provide a votenoe@gmail.com national economy, public officials need to be vibrant and dynamic Senior Program. The proThe Republican majority Board of Selectmen sensitive and thoughtful about moving forward posed Mather Community Center will allow have monopolized their voting power and diswith any but the most urgent capital projects. I our Senior program to flourish and create a new enfranchised the two Democrats serving with would have all of our Town expenses subject- place for the community to gather. The Mather them. The Republican slogan We are United

Whats the most important thing facing Darien?

expresses their lack of concern for the other elected selectman, their performance despicable. Their promise to work with the Democrats in the future cannot be believed. I offer a third party, UltraConservative, CHRIS NOE not allied to either party. This third party breaks the voting majority. I carry a different set of priorities, truly conservative. I offer better solutions to Affordable Housing/8-30g, immediate action on the existing Senior Center to remove asbestos and renovate bathrooms while solutions are further considered. I offer an immediate plan for flooding. I have plans to reduce our town debt while dismantling our unions and remedies for employees who are clearly overpaid. Dont be Conservative vote UltraConservative.

Selectmen

How would you address the towns most important issue?

You will be asked to vote for two of these four candidates. The top four vote-getters, including the two losers of the first selectman race, are elected selectmen. They serve a two-year terms and are not paid. ing new on Edgerton Street, the bonds issued with reference to 35 Leroy can remain tax exempt. The Shuffle was well-intentioned, but is proving unjustifiable. Thanks to the volunteers who have highlighted the Senior Center issues What is the most important issue con- through their hard work, but its time for a fronting Darien? How do you propose to financially responsible Plan B. address that issue? Please visit darienworkingtogether.com for my qualifications. the Police Station costing taxpayers approximately $19 million. Now is a time for belttightening and for looking for ways to decrease the burden on the taxpayers while maintaining the quality Dariens educational system, which is the backbone supporting the real property valuations all Darien residents enjoy. of Town Hall and finally putting 35 Leroy Ave. into service. This will result in lower operating costs to the Town, with renovation and bonding debt being taken on at the lowest rates.

Gerald A. Nielsen, Jr. (i)

Republican 33 Rocaton Road jnielsenjr@AOL.com
Darien needs to address our Senior Center. Our current building is not only an embarrassment to our Town but in such disrepair it is at risk of a major failure and discontinued use if structural and mechanical deficiencies are not addressed i m m i n e n t l y. JERRY NIELSEN Darien must be committed to continue to provide a quality, fully functional facility meeting the needs and desires of our growing senior population. Our seniors have supported large capital projects and increasing budgets for our schools associated with higher enrollment and mandates put on our school system. Renovating our Town owned buildings to address their needs is small in comparison to the support they have shown our Town. I will continue to support the efficient use of our Town facilities and will make sure our Community Center is built out economically, efficiently and to a standard we are all proud of.

David M.Campbell
Republican 27 Shipway Road dcampbell@darienct.gov
Darien has a history of funding its obligations, maintaining a healthy fund balance and prudent bonding. We have the second lowest mill rate in Connecticut. We have the largest Undesignated Fund Balance in the State. We have conDAVE CAMPBELL trolled the Town budget: $38,809,994 (FY2009) and $38,798,485 (FY2012). Sound Fiscal Management is more than saying no to capital projects. It includes prioritizing projects and yearly maintenance needs. When I came into office I found Town Hall had 10,000 sq. ft. of underutilized space. The Senior Center is beyond repair, 35 Leroy in mothballs and the Public Works garage underutilized. The solution is the Facilities Optimization plan which results in the tear down of the Senior Center, the full utilization

Vickie Hanna Riccardo

Democrat 33 Red Rose Circle vriccardo33@gmail.com
The Shuffle. In August, construction cost estimates for the Shuffle reached $7.16 million. Recession w e a r y Darienites, concerned about their growing tax burdens, were assured that the niceto-haves would be eliminated. VICKIE RICCARDO Yet, in October, the Republican Selectmen voted to appropriate $6.979 million for the Shuffle. Darien needs a new Senior Center, and finally has the will to deliver. We dont need four construction projects, including work at the DPW garage, to reach that goal. Developer David Genovese estimates that 35 Leroy might fetch $4.8 million for re-development as housing. By using the sale proceeds to fund build-

David F. Bayne (i)

Democrat 5 Windsor Road DFBayne@aol.com
Rising taxes is the number one issue: Darien opened its sewer bills this month to find a 13% increase. Last July, Darien opened its property tax bills to find a 3.92% increase in Dariens mill rate, an increase larger than eighteen other DAVID BAYNE municipalities in Fairfield County. All indications point to future upward pressure on Dariens budget. Meanwhile, state and federal taxes are increasing, and jobs in the financial industry, with which Darien is inextricably linked, are being shed in large numbers. Times are hard and getting harder. Darien is already proceeding with two important and expensive capital projects at Weed Beach and

Board of Finance

You will be asked to vote for two of four candidates to serve four-year terms on the Board of Finance, which is responsible for formulating and recommending the towns financial policy. All candidates are unopposed and the position is not paid. As a member of the Board of Finance, what do you consider your most important role?

Whats your most important role?

Elizabeth Smith Mao (i)
Republican 37 Holly Lane LizSMao@gmail.com
The Board of Finance is responsible for the prudent financial management of Dariens assets, and for setting the Towns annual budget and consequent mil rate, which it then recommends to the RTM for approval. These responsibilities also include the approval of capital projects, and the issuance of the fiscal instruments, notes and bonds, to finance LIZ MAO them. Coupled with the exercise of prudent financial management, I believe my most important role on the Board of Finance is to understand Darien citizens concerns about the importance of keeping our schools and town facilities in excellent condi-

an MBA in Finance from New York University and previ- tion while minimizing tax increases. ously worked as a CPA at Ernst & Young and was Director of Financial Forecasting and Shareholder Relations at James H. McLaughlin (i) Freddie Mac (before they went to the dark side). I am cur- Republican rently employed in financial reporting for the Community 21 Leeuwarden Road Fund, Land Trust and Aging in Place+Gallivant.

Board of Assessment Appeals

The Board of Assessment Appeals hears citizens cases for adjusting the Grand List values determined for their properties. The candidate for the Board of Assessment Appeals is unopposed. The position is unpaid and four years, How is technology changing your job?

jameshmcl@optonline.net

Gwen M. Mogenson (i)

Democrat 141 Leroy Avenue HMogen@aol.com
The most important role of a Board of Finance member is to act as a prudent financial steward of the towns finances: to develop and approve budgets that balance required spending with a property tax that is not unduly burdensome, to prioritize spending using fiscal restraint, while meeting taxpayer expectations for adequate town services, public recreGWEN MOGENSON ational opportunities and strong support for our excellent school system. I am proud to have served as such and am eager to continue. I have a B.S. in Accounting from Marquette University,

Darien is a well run town and blessed with one of the highest fiscal capacities of any town in CT. I have much to learn about the intricacies of the budget process. My most important role, albeit a modest one, will be to work collegially with my Board of Finance colleagues of both political parties and hold our departments to a high degree of accountability for every expenditure. Secondarily, I hope JAMES MCLAUGHLIN to make a meaningful contribution to Dariens management of its bonded indebtedness. I spent 10 years in the CT General Assembly, including serving as Chairman of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee during my six years in the State Senate. I studied public finance at Harvards Kennedy School and have worked on Wall Street for the past 20 years including senior operating roles. I understand the drivers of an organizations cost structure and know how to affect operating efficiency.

Richard P. Dolcetti (i)

Republican 4 Chester Road
No response.

THE DARIEN TIMES, THURSDAY, NOV. 3, 2011

Page 13A

Election 2011..
Planning & Zoning Commission Board of Education

How are we training our students in this changing world?

You will be asked to choose two of the three candidates to serve a three-year term on the Board of Education. The board oversees the Darien School System. There are three unopposed candidates. Youll be asked to vote for any two. The position is unpaid. What efforts are we making to train our students for life in this changing world?

There are three Planning & Zoning Commission candidates who are all unopposed for four-year terms. The commission has authority to adopt a Town Plan and to legislate zoning and subdivision regulations You will be asked to vote for two. The position is unpaid.

Explain the planning aspect of your job

What do you see as the planning aspect of your job? Be as specific as possible.

Kevin M. Cunningham
Democrat 37 Country Club Road kevin7160@yahoo.com
The aspects I see for the job that are key are engaging with and assessing the needs of the community in order to preserve the character of this wonderful community. There are several issues that I think are necessary to get a full understanding of in order to perform my duties on the board effectively. First is understanding the flood mitigation measures already undertaken in town and measure the effectiveness of ongoing efforts. Second is analyzing the current legal status of the moratorium on the affordable housing statute and understanding the drivers and metrics by which the town applies standards. Lastly I would need to perform an evaluation of affordable housing proposals currently in the pipeline.

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM

SUSAN CAMERON

REESE HUTCHISON

Heather Lynn Shea (i)

Democrat 21 Revere Road bhshea@optonline.net
The most direct evidence of training students for this changing world lies within our district curriculum which emphasizes a depth of understanding and application of knowledge through: inquiry and problem-solving, higher order thinking, cross-disci-

Susan R. Cameron (i)

Republican 42 Hoyt Street scameron@aol.com

in a community. It is determining what will function best over time, weighing the impacts of future development on traffic, safety, stormwater management, and the existing character of surrounding neighborhoods. I believe preserving open space and trees is hugely important. It improves the quality of life for everyone and helps Darien retain its New England character. I approve of the current trend toward a mix of office, retail and living space close to areas where mass transit is available, provided the items listed above traffic, safety, stormwater management, visual impact are well considered. As we move forward, I feel it will be important to create opportunities for our senior population to age in place. I believe this includes both affordable senior housing as well as 3 bedroom condominiums.

reesehutchison@yahoo.com

Reese Hutchison (i)

Republican

Land use planning is developing the vision for sustained growth and vibrancy 70 Hecker Avenue

Good regulations allow for the broadest freedoms for property owners balanced against the common interests of the community. We all share a common in the quality of the experience of our surroundings, our environment and the future consequences of our choices. Planning requires that we look to the past to understand how regulations helped shape and were shaped by the common interest. It requires that we analyze current conditions such as traffic, parking, safety, drainage, communal needs that are deficient and changes of law, and adjust regulations accordingly to best manage what Chairman Conze has called our portfolio. The goal is to allow for both residential and commercial development without sacrificing that which makes Darien unique and desirable. By forecasting the future, studying the past and updating regulations, value and quality of life shall be maximized.

HEATHER SHEA

plinary learning, authentic learning opportunities, informed and ethical use of technology, and effective communication. Our students are encouraged to think creatively, analyze effectively, make connections, draw conclusions and reflect on their own learning process using real world problems, data, and tools. They learn to work creatively with others, be open and responsive to new and diverse perspectives, and incorporate group input and feedback into their own work. At every grade and core subject, students are challenged to articulate their thoughts and ideas using oral and written skills. Finally, they are exposed to a broad variety of media and technology as a means of effective communication and collaboration.

Constables

How is technology changing your job?

The primary role of an elected constable is properly to serve legal notices to and from town citizens so they may respond to the governmental organization or agency having jurisdiction. There are four candidates for three positions. You will be asked to vote for two to a two-year term. How is technology changing your job?

Michael Anton Harman

The world that our children are growing up in has become far more competitive and that trend wont diminish any time soon. Like most parents with school-aged children, I recognize the importance of education to our kids future success. Education MICHAEL HARMAN must provide our children critical problem solving skills. Our Superintendent has been on the forefront in realigning our schools instruction towards a student-centric learning model; but this is only one step in a long journey. We still dont have elementary foreign language instruction or addressed strengthening core mathematics. My professional experience and academic background include Engineering, Innovation and Operational Excellence, areas that will be critical in continuing the improvement of our school system. I have served as a member of the RTM and Tokeneke Budget Representative which provide a background on Darien education. I ask for your vote in this coming election, and look forward to the opportunity to serve.

Republican 11 Old Farm Road majharman@me.com

David W. Morgan (i)

Democrat 14 Anthony Lane 203-356-1212

DAVID MORGAN

WILLIAM SLINSKY

LOUIS CALASTRO

my job a lot easier. Qualifications: (1) Darien Special Police Officer for 7 years (2) retired Deputy Sheriff for Fairfield Technology not so much, use of sher- County (3) Going on my 5th term as a Darien Constable. iffs is changing routine.

William John Slinsky Sr. (i)

Democrat 10 Brookside Drive WSlinsky@att.net

Louis J. Calastro

My qualifications for the position of Republican Technology has changed the way we Constable are that I have over 30 years 9 Richmond Drive do our work. It has improved my job because the Attorneys have more ways experience in the private security indusNo response. of getting their jobs done and it makes try. I hold private investigator and watch

Republican 15 Hollow Tree Ridge Road LouisCalastro@yahoo.com

guard licenses in numerous states including Connecticut. I deal with a variety of different lawyers, clients as well as other security organizations (both private and governmental) on a daily basis. In my investigations I have found that technology has greatly increased my ability to find information quicker.

Joseph Tarnowsky Jr. (i)

Town clerk, treasurer and tax collector are unopposed

The offices of town clerk, town treasurer and tax collector are paid elected positions in Town Hall. Each office has a two-year term. This year, all the incumbents are seeking re-election and are unopposed. Office have remained virtually the same, technology has enhanced communication and dissemination of information. As a Certified Connecticut Town Clerk, I keep current on technological advances affecting the Clerks Office/procedures, by attending conferences and workshops offered by the Connecticut Town Clerks Association and various State agencies. The low interest rate environment has changed my investment strategy. The challenge is to make investment income in a down market with the federal funds rates artificially held low (0-25 basis points) by the Federal Reserve. I exceeded my budgeted revenue in 2011 by pushing some investments out to longer maturities. We try to get money in quickly, keep it invested longer and now use a controlled disbursement system.

Town Clerk
Donna E. Rajczewski (i)
Republican 15 Bayberry Lane DRajczewski@darienct.gov

Town Treasurer
Joan D. Hendrickson (i)

Morgan B. Whittier (i)

Republican 41 Walmsley Road
No response.

Republican How is technology changing your 97 Hoyt Street job? jhendrickson@darienct.gov

Tax Collector
Robert A. Locke (i)
Republican 53 Echo Drive North

I have had the privilege of serving How has the current interest rate How is technology changing your Darien since January 2000 and have seen environment changed your investment job? many technological advances over the strategy? years. While the duties of the Clerks No response.

Follow the results as they come in at DarienTimes.com and Twitter.com/DarienTimes

On Election Day

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THE DARIEN TIMES, THURSDAY, NOV. 3, 2011

Election 2011..

The Representative Town Meeting is determined annually by elector vote and cannot exceed 100 members. Half of the body is up for election to two-year terms each November. Legislative powers for the town are vested in this body. Members are not elected based on party affiliation. Its responsibilities include passing laws and ordinances, appropriating money, and approving collective bargaining contracts involving town employees. Ballots will vary depending on the voting district. There are write-in candidates in some of the districts, but you must ask at your polling location or at the office of the town clerk for information. The difference between the number of candidates and the number you can vote for indicates vacancies that may be filled by eligible write-in candidates. Write-in candidates must receive a minimum of 25 votes to serve on the RTM. Attendance records for incumbents have been provided by the town clerks office for your information.

How should RTM members reach out to their constituency?

Having had two children attend Holmes School, I know many District 3 residents and I stop to talk to them whenever I can. When I meet someone new, I make a point of telling them that I am an RTM member and provide my contact information. As District Chair, my role is to disseminate information to other district members and to the public. I therefore try to make myself as accessible as possible. events around the schools both athletic and social where being on the scene exposes RTM members to their constituents. Many meetings of the RTM and RTM Committees are on television, so attendance at those meetings brings exposure. Having a website also provides opportunity for dialogue. approaches including mail surveys, Allison L. Stolar (i) but have found the most effective to 23 Fairfield Avenue be sending emails to voters prior to No response. an important vote and asking your opinion. Then I have quantitative District 6 support for my votes. To join my 17 Seats: Vote for any seven. email list, contact millar4rtm@aol. com. Arden A. Broecking

Robert E.Young, Jr. (i)

Susan E. Morrison (i)

Michael J. Burke (i) Eugene F. Coyle (i)

199 Hollow Tree Ridge Road No response.

15 Echo Drive By staying informed of their wishes and opinions and then voting accordingly. Im a 24-year member of this body. Currently serve on: Town Government Services and Administration Committee, Board of Ethics, Channel 79 Advisory Board. Previously served on: Rules Committee, Park and Recreation, District 4 Public Works, Health and Safety. 16 Seats: Based on vote, 9 candi- William D. Peters, III (i) Justice of the Peace, Judge Advocate dates will serve two-year terms and 32 Stanton Road of Marine Corps League, Fordham 1 will serve a one-year term. Vote for No response. In what ways should RTM graduate, Time Magazine-50 years; any nine. Sandra A. Savage (i) members reach out to their con- World Wide Director of Operations, stituency? United Nations Permanent Angus James (Jim) Cameron 22 Pleasant Street Secretariat; one year. savageaken@aol.com (i) I believe trying to attend as many District 1 55 Dubois Street public functions in the town, to be 17 Seats: Based on vote, nine can- Rose Ellyn Coyne I have always fought for open, didates will serve two-year terms and 34 Intervale Road engaged government in my time on seen and available. I would love to one candidate will serve a one-year Ro.ellyn@gmail.com the RTM, my work at Darien TV79, have a town e-mail address so that There are many ways that the my columns in The Darien Times people could contact me in this fashterm. Vote for any 10. members of the RTM can reach out and Darien Patch. I also fought to ion, it would make it so much easier to residents in their respective dis- require all elected officials to post for everyone. I know that I am out in L. Francis Huck tricts. A RTM member could set up their e-mail addresses and phone the community as much as possible 90 Inwood Road an email distribution list or a blog, numbers on the Town website. I, for to make sure I am keeping up with lfhuck@gmail.com Most RTM members are open allowing the RTM member the abil- one, welcome constituent input on what the latest concerns are in the to the concerns and views of con- ity to communicate key topics in important issues so I can better repre- town. stituents. Of course, openness is not town and allow residents to voice sent their views on the RTM. E-mail District 5 the same as outreach. Each member their concerns. I have reached out me at Cameron06820@gmail.com to a number of constituents in my should regularly reach out informal16 Seats: Vote for any seven. ly, touching base with constituents district by going door to door and Maria L. Cleary (i) Christopher L. Camuti (i) interested in particular matters and introducing myself. 7 Patricia Lane making inquiries of neighbors and Engaging citizens in discussion 279 Hoyt Street others. Formal outreach, however, Maria B. Ferretti (i) of current projects, budgets, poli- No response. should probably be coordinated by 23 Phillips Lane cies and plans can occur anywhere the RTM as a whole or at least at mariaferretti@optonline.net school, church, book clubs, block Adele Conniff (i) As an RTM member, reaching parties. Availability is key. Darien 8 Wheat Lane the District level, to avoid duplicate solicitations and assure sharing of out to your constituency base to should immediately post email aconniff00@aol.com understand what is important to them addresses for each RTM member to information. My constituents can be confidant and fostering community is essential. its town website so that the public that I will always make an informed Reaching out to bring awareness to can engage their representatives at decision. People feel comfortable Peter K. Kelly (i) current issues under consideration in any time. This request for RTM town reaching out to me. I welcome let103 Pembroke Road town and to understand your constit- email addresses has been on the table ters, e-mails and phone calls. The No response. uents views on such issues by solic- for several years and needs to be district caucus is an important tool iting feedback is imperative. Inviting implemented. Lois J. Schneider (i) for airing issues of particular sigconstituents to public meetings to 31 Maywood Road nificance to our district. Also all listen to the proceedings, and if the Lucy Fiore (i) LoisRTM@aol.com RTM meetings offer opportunities With 100 members to the RTM, meeting is open to public comment, 31 Harbor Road for public comment. It has been my we represent the broad community. encouraging them to have a voice. pleasure to serve on the RTM. With lucyfiore@optonline.net We seek out opinions and inforI was appointed to the RTM as your vote I hope to continue serving mation from our neighbors, within Susan S. LeHan (i) a District IV member this Spring. District V. our community organizations and 125 Holmes Avenue Darien is a volunteer driven town by responding to constituents that Slehan@optonline.net and I am honored to serve the Town Bruce G. Orr Sr. (i) Informed constituents are democ- of Darien and the people in my dis- 4 Nolen Lane contact us. We are available and have discussions wherever we are in town. racys strongest link. Districts should trict. My goal is to preserve Darien ORR@TNA.BZ I hope to continue to serve the town give citizens an opportunity to under- as the wonderful, beautiful town it As a neighborhood non-partisan combining many years of town gov- stand and voice their opinions on already is, while helping to prepare legislative body, RTM members ernment, business experience, and issues by holding public caucuses. it for the future. If anyone has ques- should be known and accessible to strong interest in the best education Accordingly, I recommend the news- tions about issues the RTM is voting the district constituency. In a perfect papers publish the RTM agenda in on, feel free to e-mail /call me. possible for our investment. world, each district should be a hostadvance with a brief description of ing a bi-annual district town meeting. the issues to broaden the circulation Joseph H. Hardison, III (i) Edward Reilly Tierney (i) In our digital world, each district of this information. Raising aware- 11 Nearwater Lane 7 Maywood Court could have a blog hosted by the ness on issues and soliciting opinions No response. The present system works, as I Town website, where RTM members from the public prior to RTM debate have been contacted by many folks reach out and solicit opinions/conis the best way to ensure that the in my district since joining the RTM. cerns from district voters. The Town Thomas Brady Valentino III publics voice is heard. 2 Stonewall Lane However, I think it could be improved should also be providing Town email No response. by providing all RTM members town addresses to each RTM member, at David Byron Martens (i) email addresses, as has been dis- no additional cost. 11 Bittersweet Lane District 2 cussed, so that RTM members are RTM Members, both as individu- readily accessible via email as well James M. Patrick (i) 17 Seats: Vote for any eight. als and through their families, should as phone. 22 Edgerton Street be involved in events and volunteer mgbmac@snet.net Ted Hilton (i) activities in and around the school Frank B. Kemp (i) RTM Districts should have public 79 Old Kings Highway South system. This is where 2/3rds of our 20 Seagate Road meetings with their constituency to No response. tax dollars go and a great performing fkemp@optonline.net discuss topics relating to the District school system helps attract new famKirk P. Hoffman (i) Just being available on phone and the Town of Darien as well. ilies. For those families with multiple and e-mail is not enough. RTM mem- Last fall, as District V Chairman, I 35 Dickinson Road school age children like ours, there is bers should be actively involved in coordinated a meeting with neighNo response. also a strong emotional connection to volunteer community organizations bors to hear questions and concerns the way the schools are operated. Martin David Magida (i) to be better positioned to learn regarding the redevelopment of Allen 2 Dogwood Lane constituents concerns and issues. ONeill Homes. In the future, meetThomas W. Moore (i) No response. This term in the RTM I will pursue ings most likely will be held on the 26 Georgian Lane the effort to upgrade the Charter, issues of flooding, traffic congestion Thomasm669@aol.com Jeffrey L. Marston (i) incorporating the organization and and the Senior Center property. As a member of the RTM for clear writing style of the recent 49 Goodwives River Road several years I have reached out to Charter Revision Commissions. Debra McGarry Ritchie (i) No response. many of neighbors on various topics These changes will not alter govern- 16 Stony Brook Road that have impacted the town and the ment structure, but will clarify and dritchiect@gmail.com District 3 district. I have received numerous RTM members are obligated to 18 Seats: Based on vote, 10 can- emails, letters and phone calls on simplify the Charters readability and reach out to their constituents. I use accessibility. didates will serve two-year terms and topics ranging from the dog leash email updates to keep people aware one will serve a one-year term. Vote ordinance to the annual budget. I of important issues. Whether it be a Andrew C. Millar (i) for any 11. would encourage people to attend 18 LaForge Road Public Hearing regarding the leash the RTM meetings and contact their millar4rtm@aol.com law or an important matter to be voted Steven A. Anderson representative through email. To me, the operative word in upon by the RTM I use the email 36 Phillips Lane Representative Town Meeting is updates to keep people informed and No response. Seth W. Morton (i) Representative. To represent you, I to seek their viewpoints. Personal 20 Denhurst Place need to know how you feel. Speaking contact is also important so when I Carolyn Golden Bayne (i) sethmorton@optonline.net in the grocery store or the train plat- see residents I seek their opinions on 5 Windsor Road There are a number of ways to form isnt enough. Ive tried many issues facing our town. CGBayne@aol.com reach out to constituents. There are

14 Hillside Avenue The obvious answer is to become more accessible through any electronic and social media outlet, which the RTM is currently pursuing on a town-wide basis. But for me, its more intuitive communicate through action. Be active in your government, participate in your childrens school, attend the annual firemans BBQ, clean the leaves from the storm drain in front of your house, and shovel snow from the sidewalk or fire hydrant. Your constituents will take note.

8 Juniper Road leemail@optonline.net BA in English, MS in Special Education Twelve years on RTM, member of Education Committee Darien Public Schools teacher A first step would be for the town to assign e-mail addresses to all elected officials, and post them in a prominent place on the website. Going forward, occasional notices in the paper or on the Patch reminding people to voice their opinions could follow. Easy accessibility would facilitate a dialogue between members and their constituents.

719 Boston Post Road A long-term resident of Darien, a senior, a professional musician and writer. I want to be a voice for seniors, a voice for the arts and a voice for responsibility on all levels. Most important, over and above party lines, what is best for our town and all our citizens. An RTM member must be aware of issues and activities in town, and be responsive and available to residents of the district.

Lisa G. Haas

21 Sunset Road lghaas@hotmail.com Through my involvement on the Royle PTO and The Community Fund of Darien, as well as a parent to three elementary aged children, I am actively engaged in our community. I have a business and financial background, and I can research and assimilate information that can be shared with my constituents, in person, through email or social media. As a member of the RTM, I would welcome feedback and opinions regarding town decisions.

Emily Quinn McDermott (i)

73 Locust Hill Road EMandEDinCT@sbcglobal.net For the two terms that I have served on the RTM, personal conversations have been my method of reaching out to constituents in my district. I very often will ask people what they think about an issue that the RTM is grappling with, or is soon to vote on. I would also encourage any voter in District VI to call or email me with any questions or thoughts. I represent you!

Christa S. McNamara (i)

181 Leroy Avenue christamcn@sbcglobal.net As an elected member of the Darien Representative Town Meeting (RTM), I believe I have a responsibility to the constituents in my district to help serve as a conduit of information on what is happening in local government. There are multiple options with Social Media to reach the Darien community; Twitter, Facebook and Blogs are examples. Regardless the medium, I welcome the concerns and thoughts of those in District VI.

James Robert Palen, Jr. (i)

45 Brookside Road As a member of the Darien RTM and the Finance & Budget Committee I make every effort to introduce myself to residents in my district and throughout the town and I encourage an open dialogue about the issues that concern them. I believe making an @darienct.gov email address available for each RTM member and posting it on the website would help to encourage increased inbound communication on issues that affect residents.

S. Lloyd Plehaty (i)

187 Old Kings Highway North Plehaty-SL@IEEE.org Citizens can contact RTM members with comments, questions and complaints. Many do so, by mail, phone, and email, and by attending committee meetings and hearings. It is more practical for the citizen to initiate such contact. A Darien resident for 48 years, Ive served on the RTM for 13 years. Im a retired electronics engineer, with bachelors and masters degrees. I served in the Navy in WW-II.

Gary C. Swenson (i)

4 Stony Brook Road dswen@optonline.net Being an active listener, an informational resource, and an outspoken advocate for your district are but three hats an individual must wear if they are to truly represent their constituency. Over my two decades as a member of the RTM, I have attempted to maintain an open line of communication with all the residents of the district. As a duly elected representative, my constituency deserves nothing less.