The shuffle, moving Board of Education offices to 35 Leroy to free up space at the town hall annex for a new Mather Community/Senior Center, answers safety concerns about the Edgerton building; saves operating costs through efficient use of town buildings; capitalizes on favorable financing available now; fits within town plan parameters; opens up the possibility of privately funded affordable senior housing; and offers Darien seniors an appropriate place to gather. Take a few minutes from the busy holiday season and speak out on this important issue. To my knowledge, vitally important details such as cost, timetable, feasibility, responsibility, etc., have not been developed or, if developed, have not been made public. [...] a comprehensive plan for the utilization of the Edgerton property has been completed, made public and endorsed by the appropriate authorities, it seems foolish to proceed with any of the other components of the shuffle. Experience has given me knowledge of commercial buildings. An added bonus is the group that has come together to build 20 senior affordable housing units on the Edgerton site at no additional cost to taxpayers. Please join me in voting "yes" for a solid solution to improve Darien facilities. The director of the center, Beth Paris, is creative and tireless, but even she cannot change the effects of time on this building. A community center and affordable housing were usually in the top ten. There have been scare tactics by several people who do not seem to realize that the two-thirds affirmative vote dictates the price of the project. Unfortunately, what began as a great creative idea to develop -- the shuffle of town hall annex, 35 Leroy and Edgerton senior center spaces -- wasn't explored beyond the original concept, leaving us with an over-sized, over-priced solution to the problems that were originally identified. After touring the buildings in question, reading the architects' presentations and attending the RTM discussions, it seems that a compromise solution could quickly and easily be pursued. If space can be allocated more efficiently for all government and Board of Education offices at town hall (sharing conference room, lunch and IT areas, reducing the number/size of private offices, using digital filing to reduce storage, and moving BOE maintenance to the Public Works garage), then likely a more appropriately-sized senior center can fit in Town Hall Annex along with the Board of Ed (leaving Leroy and Edgerton available for other uses). With the proposed Mather Community Center, we have a unique opportunity to finally create an appropriate gathering place for our seniors, while simultaneously making better use of facilities already owned by the town. The shuffle wastes a lot of money that could be better used for seniors, school kids, and a multitude of other sensible ideas. Darien needs a new home for our seniors, but other options, such as forging a partnership with the DCA to offer town-subsidized senior programs there or building a new center at Edgerton, have not been fully explored. At a time when the economic climate is extremely challenging and our taxes continue to rise, we can't afford to move forward on a project of this cost and magnitude when other more affordable options exist and have not been explored. Darien needs to build a senior center for seniors and to stop shuffling everybody around. The cost of the shuffle (community center, rehab of old library and relocate the Board of Education) is less than the cost of a new senior center, and frees up the Edgerton Street site for another unmet need: Affordable senior housing based on a nonprofit development model outside of the town budget. [...] I concluded that there was not a sufficient, supportable and appropriate level of analysis to proceed on an expensive and complex project. The Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance voted in favor of it and finally the RTM had a landslide vote of 58-28 to support the funding. Many of our elected officials that voted in favor toured the senior center, town hall and 35 Leroy to see exactly how the shuffle would work. When the high school was rebuilt, it was not funded only by residents with high school students. Plenty of Darien folks who don't have children in school still support the system through taxes. Minimum repairs the current senior center at Edgerton will cost at least $3.3 million, and makes little sense, like painting over a rusted piece of metal. $3.3 million will be spent regardless. Refurbishing town hall costs about a third per square foot vs. new build. The shuffle is many birds with a few stones -- the cheapest way for what the community needs. What a terrible message we'd be sending our fellow Darien neighbors -- that we don't want to spend money except for our own narrow interests -- that community is lost on us. Many of the anti-shuffle supporters have argued for the sale of the old library at 35 Leroy Ave. This could result in adverse consequences to our town, per the comments of our Planning & Zoning Chairman, Fred Conze, and local developer David Genovese. Voting "yes" on Dec. 13 makes sense for many reasons, but one is particularly close to my heart -- the opportunity to construct 20 units of affordable housing for seniors at the current site of the senior center. Whether you are for or against the shuffle, one discussion topic that has fallen off the radar screen is the town's investment in the new library; other than the acute need for a habitable senior center, another catalyst that sparked the shuffle is what to do with 35 Leroy. When the new $24 million library was planned, a central part of the construction financing was to sell 35 Leroy, with the town given first dibs on the property. The $4.2 million purchase of 35 Leroy was, in effect, a taxpayer funded subsidy for the new library. In return, the town got a perfectly serviceable office building. Girl Scouts and Brownies get a renovated gym with new bathrooms for their annual Halloween and father-daughter dances. Children's birthday parties in the DAC fine arts room get a much-improved setting and bathrooms. Parks & Recreation basketball, hockey and volleyball players, and moms get locker rooms with showers adjacent to the courts in the gym. After a considerable amount of due diligence, I (like an overwhelming majority of my fellow RTM colleagues and other elected officials) came to the conclusion that the shuffle is the most cost efficient method to meet Darien's Senior Center needs while also delivering benefits to the broader community through multiple building renovations. [...] I am a father of three young boys who are currently enrolled in the Darien public school system. Like Dr. Falcone, Darien's superintendent of schools, I am very confident that pursuing the shuffle's approved capital plan will not negatively impact our schools' operating budget. Neither side can claim certainty about future town budgets, but the Board of Finance and the RTM have a long track record of supporting Board of Education budgets in the face of recessions, escalating special education costs and more than $130 million in capital projects during the past 15 years. If the referendum is defeated, the estimated annual shuffle bonding cost will likely be spent doing piecemeal emergency repairs to the senior center, not allocated to the schools. When these assumptions were questioned, the P&Z chairman gave a speech that suggested affordable housing at Leroy would be terrible. [...] the plan for the new high school project was approved more than 10 years ago, Darien had under-invested in maintaining its capital assets. Per a July 2011 Moody's Investors Service analysis of AAA-rated municipalities in Connecticut, Westport ($172 million) and New Canaan ($137 million) currently have higher levels of outstanding debt than we plan to have at the peak of our long-term debt plan. On Tuesday, Dec. 13, every Darien voter will have the opportunity to approve or deny a $6.99 million town capital expenditure to fund a plan commonly referred to as the shuffle. The renovation of and a small expansion to the town hall annex for a multi-use/multi-generational community center; a relocation of the senior center at Edgerton Street to the town hall annex site; a renovation to the former library site at 35 Leroy Avenue to relocate the Board of Education offices from the town hall annex and for expanded meeting space. [...] the use of the old library site as office space is crazy. [...] the senior center is being eliminated for a "community center." [...] affordable housing for seniors on Edgerton Street.

After many weeks of busy campaigning, meeting, debating and greeting, we three, who have just finished running as Darien Working Together, would like to say thank you to all of you who worked with us, all of you who supported us -- whether Democrat, Unaffiliated or Republican -- all of you who voted for us, and those who may not have voted for us, but just took an interest in what we had to say. While we are all honored to have participated in the electoral process of our fine town, we all treasure the relationships forged among the campaign team and the opportunity to hear what is on the minds of our Darien community. [...] when a person or group of people look at the odds and decide to use deceptive measures to achieve their goals it begins to resemble the type of divisive politics frustrating people across the country. If you were recently asked to sign a petition by one of these misinformed individuals who claimed that its sole purpose was to "stop the board of education from taking money from the children" then you were duped. A special thank you for your overwhelming support of Jayme, Dave, Jerry and the talented slate of Republican municipal candidates who have stepped up to volunteer their service to continue to make Darien one of the best towns in Fairfield County to live in. Upper Crust Bagel; Lanphier Day Spa; Ana Blaze from Kelly Associates; Whole Food Markets; Spree; Darien Police Association; State Farm Insurance; BMW of Darien, BMW Mini of Darien; Darien Sport Shop; Darien Rowayton Bank, Geary Gallery; Click it For Cassie; Barrett Booksore; Abercrombie; Burns and McKiernan Insurance; H&L Chevrolet; Noroton Fire Department; Dr. David Osherow; Wish List; Lindamood Bell; and Learning Processes. While participating in gathering signatures for the petition on a referendum to cancel the shuffle, I thought getting support from many Darien voters would be difficult because of the united opposition of the town's Republican officials and the complexity of the issue. [...] I was surprised at the enthusiastic support from a majority of fellow Republicans I encountered. [...] I want to remind everyone who signed that the tough part lies ahead -- making sure enough opponents of the shuffle turn out to vote it down. Over the last year, my husband publicly lobbied and challenged the perpetually homogeneous all-white and all-male 23-member board of directors of Darien Little League to become more inclusive and open its doors to a woman, a person of color, a representative of special needs children, and even a minister. Several weeks ago, Darien Little League proved that it had listened and voted in a new board of directors that for the very first time ever includes the three disenfranchised groups for whom my husband so strongly advocated: a woman; a person of color; and a representative of special needs children. Congratulations to the new and much-improved 2012 Darien Little League Board of Directors and may this story serve as encouragement to all those who would like to speak up, bring positive change, and improve our community.

The Darien High School girls ice hockey team would like to thank our generous used equipment donors, as well as all of the people who purchased items at our most successful used equipment sale ever. Once again, the youth commission was pleased to sponsor the annual Halloween window painting contest. A special nod of appreciation needs to go to all involved, especially Ann Tabacco from the Darien Arts Center who, for 14 years, has judged the windows; to Paula Csengo and her staff at TD bank for sponsoring a winners' party complete with pizza, soda and goodie bags; and to members of the youth commission for helping to implement this event. The performance not only attracted Gilbert and Sullivan aficionados, but also fans of music from Broadway, featuring favorites by Rodgers & Hammerstein, Sondheim, Jerry Herman among other modern composers and lyricists. The intertwining, or "twist," of the two music styles along with some fast-paced comedy was cleverly produced and provided us with an evening of unique and entertaining musical theater. Without the continued generosity of Good Goods, Couleur Provence, Good Food Good Things, Aquarius, Darien Station Variety, Subway, Robeks, Darien Barber Shop, Jade Nail & Spa, Coldwell Banker, Bella Pietra, Koenig Art Emporium and Jem Lee Cleaners our event would not be possible.

Many residents of our neighborhood utilize Hoyt Street to walk to work while navigating a road filled with speeding traffic that is still without adequate walkways, signage and lighting despite two solid years of active pleas to address these safety issues. David Bayne has remained an advocate, continuing to educate us on how to properly move our issue forward, even when faced with the extreme lack of interest, communication and action that we've witnessed from the majority on the current Board of Selectmen. The major issues facing Darien -- flooding, affordable housing, and the shuffle -- must be addressed while preserving our excellent schools. During these uncertain times, with record unemployment impacting our friends and neighbors, fiscal restraint is essential to protect real estate values. Voter turnout for a local election can average 30 percent, whereas gubernatorial elections can reach 60 percent and presidential more than 90 percent. The very foundation of our system of government depends on the countless volunteers that take up the challenge to serve by sacrificing precious time away from family and professional responsibilities. The policy decision-making roles that these dedicated friends and neighbors play directly affects every person, child and business in our town. Nov. 8, and the Darien Republican Town Committee urges all registered Republican voters to take the time to go to the polls and vote. If you are unable to get to the polls on Election Day, please visit the Town Clerk's office to obtain an absentee ballot. All absentee ballots must be received not later than 6 p.m. on Election Day. Over the last two years, they have delivered real results for Darien residents, making progress on some of the most significant issues facing our town and improving our quality of life. They've proposed an innovative solution to providing our seniors with quality meeting space. Since moving to Darien four years ago, I have been impressed with David Bayne's tireless activism for the community, especially on issues such as public safety. If the shuffle project moves forward as proposed, our town will reach its debt ceiling, putting Darien in a precarious financial situation especially if an unforeseen project expenditure comes to light. The seniors gain a new, flexible, fully accessible building, including fitness, creative and socializing spaces at a location they know and like, and long-term impacts on the Edgerton Street neighbors are minimized. [...] there will be no waiting for the completion of two Board of Education building projects at 35 Leroy and the DPW garage to begin construction for our seniors, because the board remains where it is. If sold and re-developed as housing, which is consistent with the Town Plan of Conservation and Development, it would produce tax revenue for the town and reduce the overall senior center project costs. Like her running mates, John Lundeen and David Bayne, Vickie is committed to providing Darien's seniors with a bright, safe, flexible and fully accessible new senior center. Flooding and storm water management; our public schools; pedestrian safety; facilities upkeep to preserve our public buildings; protecting the environment; and careful deployment of our tax dollars. With service in both the Reagan and Carter administrations, long and successful financial services industry experience, and his tireless dedication to Darien's Boy Scouts, youth athletic leagues, Chamber of Commerce and Friends of Gorham's Pond, John has the breadth and depth to bring extraordinary results in addressing Darien's opportunities. Vickie Riccardo has demonstrated incisive intelligence and enthusiasm in her service to Darien on the Charter Revision and Planning and Zoning commissions. The Procaccini property came to market in a different economic environment: prior to the recession, prior to cuts in state funding; prior to our tax reassessment and higher mill rate. Not only does the shuffle fail to include a pool at Town Hall, but spending $2.6 million to move the Board of Education into a $4.8 million home at 35 Leroy puts any other capital project farther out of reach. With the advent of the shuffle, that philosophy has gone the way of the dinosaur, and has been replaced with an impatient and relentless push to fill empty buildings, regardless of the long-term operating costs or strategic vision for our community. [...] let's stick to the facts rather than make budgetary connections -- involving children -- which simply aren't there. On Nov. 8, Election Day, you have a choice to put Darien back on a progressive course to improve the quality of life for all Darien residents -- that includes seniors, our youth and all ages of our adult population. John Lundeen for first selectman, David Bayne and Vickie Riccardo for Board of Selectmen have the experience, know how and skills who will work together with the Darien community to make the right decisions for Darien. In this most trying of economic times we would be lucky to have a first selectman whose high morals equal his acute business intelligence and know-how. John Lundeen is free of special interests and hidden agendas, free of the desire to use this position as a stepping stone to higher power and operates without indirect self-enrichment as motivation. Instead of a $12 million community center, John would spend $6 million on the project by selling 35 Leroy and building a right-sized center devoted entirely to seniors. During the month of October, the DHS girls volleyball team raised awareness about breast cancer and nearly $7,000 to support the Side-Out Foundation and breast cancer research. Thank you to everyone who bought a baked good or a ticket to the game or more importantly talked to a friend or family member about breast cancer to raise their awareness. The events would not have been possible without the support of our wonderful corporate sponsor Lanphier Day Spa and our supporters Williams & Company, Mama Carmela's Deli, Equinox, iTown, Executive Printing and Whole Foods. How can we afford to relocate our school administrators to new office space? While school parents and administrators justify every penny spent on education, the shuffle throws millions at a school problem that doesn't exist, and creates unwelcome new burdens. The (undetermined) annual operating costs will siphon BOE funds from the classroom, staff time will be diverted from the schools to the move, and inefficiencies will increase between separate office buildings. How, in a time of rising enrollment and shrinking state funding, can we justify spending millions of dollars on new administrative office space? On behalf of the scholars and the Board of Directors of A Better Chance in Darien, we would like to thank the Darien Chamber of Commerce for selecting us as a co-beneficiary of its annual Wine and Food Tasting Event, held at BMW of Darien on Thursday, Oct. 20. While running for governor, I spent more than 18 months traveling all over Connecticut listening to the many problems and frustrations of our citizens. Many actions from our two capitals, such as higher taxes, more regulations and policies that hurt employers, are actually making things worse. Jayme is a true public servant who will carefully listen to all sides with an open mind, build a consensus, and make the best decisions for Darien's future.

Open and candid debate about issues affecting our town is an excellent tool for disseminating factual information and opinions on both sides of the argument. [...] his commentary was rife with obfuscation, skewed and/or inaccurate information, exaggerations and, yes, scare tactics. Most of the "anti-shuffle" proponents seem to support the policies of the previous administration, and it appears they care more about regaining political power than what is actually best for our town. How many of the "recruited experts" have watched the painstaking, bi-partisan, discussions of the volunteer Facilities Task Force and the Building Committee? Working with private developers to implement affordable housing in areas that will not destroy our residential neighborhoods; Developing a well-planned, common-sense solution for the relocation of the senior center through efficient reorientation of existing town-owned facilities; Proposing the demolition of the current senior center and establishing a public-private partnership to provide twenty units of affordable senior housing. [...] David Bayne, an RTM member, wrote in the Darien Times, "It seems to me that while purchasing the property may slightly add to our property taxes in the near term, it will save the town money in the long run." Vickie Riccardo, also a RTM member in 2005, expressed her displeasure with the decision via a letter to the Board of Finance: In closing the Procaccini discussion, you glared at your assembled neighbors and asked if we are ready to accept a 12 percent increase in the mill rate, implying that many of us are frivolous spendthrifts for questioning the BOF's paternalistic conclusion that purchasing the Procaccini property is unwise. Since I moved to Darien in 1995, I've read and heard that the town prides itself on having one of the lowest property tax rates in the state. [...] we've gotten what we've been willing to pay for. [...] recently, we've had crumbling school buildings; limited parkland and open space; overcrowded and overused playing fields; no public pool; an inadequate senior center; etc. Darien's leaders must maintain their focus on providing reasonable financial resources which will make all of our lives here better over the long run. David has demonstrated an unwavering commitment and passion for the job of selectman -- his objective has been to take action and make decisions which improve the quality of life of all of Darien's residents in the most rationale and cost-effective way, thereby minimizing our tax burden. David's rationale, thoughtful and persuasive objections to the shuffle, however, demonstrates his ability to be a careful steward of our tax dollars and an independent voice on the Board of Selectmen when it needs one the most. [...] I have been upset by the lack of both transparency and a cooperative attitude in the outgoing Darien administration. The complexity of the plan and back-room tactics embraced in the approval process are reminiscent of what went down with the recent national health care bill. [...] building a new senior center does not need to turn into a $12 million project that requires shuffling people, departments and buildings. The town could receive upwards of $4 million for the old library property if sold, and either build town homes/condominiums or build additional commercial space, both of which would bring in additional tax revenue and bolster our existing downtown businesses. Why is a special meeting of the RTM being called to vote on this shuffle project before the general town election? Let's leave the Board of Ed in Town Hall, use 35 Leroy for affordable housing, and remodel the unused space in Town Hall into a downsized senior center/community center ASAP. [...] they are promoting the under-utilization of the 35 Leroy site as Board of Ed offices, taking it off the tax rolls, and modifying it in a poor attempt to make it workable for the BOE. Or, sell it -- let the market decide what should be built there -- and, (yes, despite misinformation disseminated, it is saleable) use the proceeds to build our senior center, either at its present location or at a new Town Hall site -- perhaps a $0 net cost to us. Don't be fooled by Mather Community Center smoke and mirrors, so named (or senior center depending on to whom they're speaking) in an attempt to give the project more universal appeal, while duplicating the efforts and competing with already-existing programs in organizations such as the YMCA, YWCA, Darien Library, DCA, etc. On Nov. 8, we will have the opportunity to exercise our fundamental civic duty of selecting those who will serve the public. Furthermore, I put my trust in their non-partisan and open approach and their ability to develop solutions for the many issues that will face Darien in the coming years. James Palen is a member of the Darien RTM Finance and Budget Committee, Deputy Treasurer of the Darien Republican Town Committee. Having worked closely with Jayme as co-chairmen of the Darien High School PTA and with the Community Funds' Thriving Youth: [...] she is raising five active children in the town's public school system. The three qualities that I admire most about Jayme are her judgement and stable, rational decision making ability, her competence at clearly articulating her thoughts and ideas and her general ability to work with people. The EPA is under constant attack, and Congress is doing its best to weaken clean air and clean water laws. The president has reneged on his campaign promise to make the U.S. a leader in addressing climate change. In this anti-science and anti-environment atmosphere of political priorities, it is refreshing to meet John Lundeen who is willing to stand up and declare his support for the environment. The purchase price of 35 Leroy is not sunk cost because its value on the open market is clearly greater than $0. When the whole project is completed, the only thing different in town will be a new senior center that cost between $175,000 and $300,000 per current user, depending on how you value 35 Leroy, and the Board of Education will have suffered the distraction of a completely unnecessary move. Some Democrats and the DTC attacked, trying to manufacture a lot of sound and fury about early executive sessions and published a political cartoon implying Jayme Stevenson doesn't care about or want help from commuters. The issues that Lundeen, Bayne and Riccardo have set as priorities concern us all: fiscal responsibility while enhancing the town's services; increased state school funding; sidewalk improvement; affordable housing; commercial and business development; and environmental preservation. John Lundeen understands that the shuffle plan rammed through by town boards gives us, for $7 million in debt, the same result we could have simply by selling the Leroy property to help finance facilities for seniors. Instead of trying to fill all available town space with the people on its payroll, the town should have used criteria based on the number of staff, and perhaps doubled-up offices, used cubicle workstations and scanned files to reduce storage requirements. A closer look at the plan reveals an increase of 2,692 square feet, including one meeting room of 2,574 square feet with 76 seats for "professional development." The qualifications of those seeking elective local government office include proven career experience, sincere interest in the well being of the community at large and an ability to lead town government for the common good of its constituents. First selectman candidate John Lundeen has these attributes as demonstrated with his proven leadership roles in the public, private and Darien community sectors. On behalf of the PTO and the families of Tokeneke Elementary School, we would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all of the families, friends, staff members and local businesses who came out to support the Tokeneke Pumpkin Carnival on Oct. 15. In continuing more than 40 years of tradition, the school community came together to create festive day filled with parent run games, carnival rides provided by Stewart Amusement, music and a "spooktacular" haunted house. To our parent volunteers who worked tirelessly to run everything from food, sponsorship, operations, staffing, publicity, raffle, accounting, games, sand art, dj/emcees, hairspray, face painting, tickets, merchandise, books/media, baked sale/candy store, as well as creating and setting up another amazing haunted house, your energy and dedication never ceased to amaze us. To our community supporters, your generosity toward this event is outstanding and we couldn't be more thankful to the following businesses: Darien Sport Shop; Heights Pizza/Tasti D-Lite; David Osherow DDS; East Coast Irrigation; ITown Store; Better Lists, inc; SP&G/Speed Printing and Graphics; Darien News; Blue Ocean Worldwide; Flowers & Flowers; Vernal's Service Station; ORVIS; Infinity Fitness Studio; Pure Love Portraits; Plumdistrict; Whole Foods; JAM SONO; Michael Kramer; and Ornemaniste & Popped, LLC. [...] we would like to thank our incredible administrators, Mary Michelson, principal, and Kathy Schultz, vice principal, for their support and energy on making this day a success. Proceeds from the event support enrichment programs and supplies for the students of Tokeneke Elementary School.

Imagine volunteering to fight for our country, receiving expensive and demanding military training, shipping off overseas for several months or years, enduring hardship and constant danger, earning meager monthly wages, and then returning home to adulation and praise. Past grant recipients have had multiple months of rent paid and credit card debt wiped out. To be eligible, the veteran must have encountered a hardship primarily due to no fault of their own; be drug- and alcohol-free; reside in Darien, New Canaan, Norwalk or Stamford; and be a veteran or current member of the U.S. Armed Forces or the National Guard.

Darien is fortunate to have had an intelligent dedicated individual like Jayme on the Board of Selectmen, and we have all clearly benefited from her service. The timetable for meetings needs to consider commuters and people who work and cannot make a 6:30 p.m. meeting. Getting issues out in front of people will make issues more transparent and encourage people to be less apathetic about getting involved in town government. In difficult financial times, it is important to plan and quantify the quality of life issues which add so much to the charm of living in Darien. [...] I've worked with each of the selectmen on important issues for the town, and have the utmost respect for each of them. A vote: A formal expression of opinion or choice made by an individual. [...] this team has put a solution in place for our seniors that uses two town buildings instead of three and uses those two more efficiently -- while also providing an opportunity for affordable senior housing. Apply any objective standard (experience, leadership, commitment, integrity, competence) to the race for First Selectman, and the scales tip decisively in favor of Jayme Stevenson. For me, the vote on election day is a no-brainer, and I urge my fellow citizens to support Jamye as well. [...] the (Randy) Klein-managed campaign of their opponents in the upcoming election has attempted to divert attention from their record of fiscal responsibility and longer term solutions that will benefit all town residents. Attend the debate and you will be reminded why you overwhelmingly chose this team two years ago and why you should choose them again on Nov. 8 to continue to build the best quality of life in Fairfield County. First and foremost, the selectmen never vote on the mill rate, and do not even propose one. [...] the part of the budget under that control of the selectmen is only 26 percent of the total Darien budget. The continued increases in school enrollment and special education expenditures have driven the largest part of mill rate increases over the past couple years. [...] the existing selectmen have adopted tight budgets over the past two years, which have included head count reductions and restructured operations. If the Democrat candidates for selectmen wish to make material changes to mill rates, I would suggest that they run for the Board of Finance or the Board of Education. With a master's in public policy from Harvard, work as a budget analyst for the White House under both Reagan and Carter, and a long career on Wall Street, John has the experience, skills, knowledge and judgment to best lead Darien. Saved taxpayers over $6 million dollars from an ineffective solution to flooding on Heights Road while preserving valuable parkland; Yet the current administration has been the model of inaction when it comes to sensible planning that addresses environmental concerns. [...] far, we've been given vague promises of treating flooding as a crisis that needs to be resolved, yet we have seen no action. The consultants Milone and McBroom were hired to complete a study of our five watersheds areas, which included recommendations for action, but nothing has been done, not even the creation of a Flood and Erosion Control Board. Inaction is not policy, but it is a decision -- it's a decision to avoid controversy for fear of criticism rather than standing up for development that leads to increasing our tax base without raising taxes, respects the environment without deterring commercial growth, and allows Darien to stand out as a community that allows business and residents -- of all ages -- to thrive. Attendees released 124 monarch butterflies in recognition of the 124 domestic violence calls to the Darien Police Department over the past year. Abercrombie, Burns, McKiernan and Company; Thomas McKiernan; Aspen Education Group; Thomas Ahern; Assisted Living Associates, LLC; Dennis Patouhas; By Word of Math Tutorial; Lorraine Hurley; Darien Emergency Medical Service -- Post 53; Susan Warren; Darien Nature Center; Darien Police Association; Dawn Hurd Del Greco; D'Iorio Printing, Dr. Eric Frazer, LLC; MacGuire, Cheswick & Tuttle; Susan Cheswick Brewer; Physicians for Women's Health; Signs Pro of Stamford; Springdale Florist; The Life Solution Center of Darien; Maud Purcell & Associates, Inc.; Victoria Thomas, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Laura van Riper, MSW; Palmer's Market and the Darien Sports Shop. [...] the Butterfly Release would not have happened without the help and support of both the Darien Domestic Abuse Partnership and the Domestic Violence Crisis Center of Stamford. [...] solutions for a new senior center have been discussed for more than 12 years, and the current shuffle proposal to put the Board of Education offices in 35 Leroy Ave. is wildly expensive, particularly when our own Planning and Zoning has determined that housing -- particularly senior housing -- is the best use for this site. Thank you to both the Civic Association for organizing the event and to the homeowners who opened up their beautiful homes to allow us to view them first-hand. On behalf of those parents who have been fortunate enough to have a student occupy a desk at Middlesex Middle School, we would like to recognize and congratulate Dr. Debi Boccanfuso, principal, for more than 25 years of service to our children and community. Middlesex Middle School is an exemplary environment for learning and kindness to others and we are truly indebted to "Dr. Bo" for her tireless efforts. What many of you don't see are the events that play out behind the scenes and the extraordinary lengths to which Dr. Bo will go to protect and nurture a student.

John Lundeen's experience as a budget examiner in both the Carter and Reagan administrations provides him the skills Darien needs for the budget analysis and control so necessary to preserving essential services without growing government costs. Public health and safety are key responsibilities of local government. [...] the present facilities of the Board of Education seem most adequate and there is really no need to move them away from their convenient Town Hall location. [...] I recognize that the present senior center on Edgerton Street is in poor shape and needs to be torn down and rebuilt. The location of the building with its accessibility to the center of town and transportation, and the building plans developed for this purpose seemed to be most suitable. During the past two years we have seen that the corporate management approach to government touted by the Republican majority in the present administration is at odds with participatory democracy. A representative government welcomes citizen input and considers diverse opinions. Cooperation, consensus, mutual priorities, transparency -- all should be the order of the day. The caller knew that all of Person-to-Person's available Campership slots had been filled for the summer and our budget expended, but asked if P2P couldn't please help find funding for just two more children. Person-to-Person then turned to the Community Fund of Darien to ask for help in meeting this need, and within days the Community Fund responded and P2P was able to place the two children in a Stamford day camp. The letter from the Community Fund says it best, "We are grateful to be able to respond promptly to provide funds to help families experiencing difficult circumstances where Camperships for their children will make a real difference." The Community Fund of Darien is a strong partner in the work of Person-to-Person; together we are making positive changes in the communities we serve especially in these difficult economic times. John Lundeen understands our community and its challenges and has the skills to lead the Board of Selectmen in focusing on what matters most. Needed projects like the new police building and an updated beachfront are in progress at a reduced cost; a plan to consolidate town operations and gain a new senior/community center is moving ahead; the recently secured moratorium on state imposed housing mandates will preserve local control; a reasonable answer to the spring cleanup controversy is in place and we again have a family fireworks event to celebrate July 4. Jayme is a wonderful leader reaching decisions and taking action after careful and thorough research. Jayme Stevenson is one of the most capable, talented women I know, and I have known her for many years, (first as a young mother with a beautiful soprano voice.) 2 Push out the Board of Ed offices, happily content in Town Hall, to the old library site which, by the way, is too large for the BOE's needs and will need extensive retooling of those large open rooms into the small, private offices that they utilize; 3 And then force something (we don't know what) on the Edgerton Street residents, who have been cohabitating very nicely with the seniors, who really wanted to stay right where they were. 1 Sell property of old library, create tax revenue for town; The proposal would reduce town building usage from three to two locations, an obvious long term fiscal benefit for taxpayers. [...] I am confident you will support the proposed facilities move and will understand why we should re-elect the very experienced team led by Jayme Stevenson.

Based on my experience working directly with Vickie Ricardo for almost two years on the Charter Revision Commission I know that she will bring passion, thoughtfulness and fairness to her work if she is elected selectman. In a recent issue of Barrons, Connecticut was listed as one of the worst states in the country with regard to fiscal health and overall credit rating, behind three other poorly managed states: To make matters worse, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's administration has bucked the belt-tightening trend witnessed across the country with a budget that increases spending and raises taxes significantly impacting Fairfield County. A recent annual survey completed by the largest business association in the state (Connecticut Business and Industry Association), has also highlighted a lack of confidence among business owners who say the tax hike will deter them from hiring. Through efficient long-range planning this team continues to bring professional transparent leadership that benefits all residents through creative affordable solutions to town issues. Tilley Pond Park sets an unmatched, charming, background for movie night, music nights, picnics, weddings and the great Post 53 Food Fair. The Friends have had a local design firm envision ideas for the park that would maintain its spirit and bring needed attention to areas of the park that are in decline. The Friends group recognizes the many, significant financial needs that all non-profits face, and well, a lovely park, we agree, is near the bottom of the list. Trying to be good stewards of the community, we are looking for creative funding and corporate donations to start this project. When not hosting the annual road Fourth of July party (something he and Judy did uncomplainingly for years) or serving as president of the road association, Jerry was leading the effort to build us a new high school. In so doing, we would be bringing the town building usage from three down to two locations, an obvious long-term fiscal benefit for the town budget. Under their leadership, many projects have been approved, reasonable and creative solutions have been found and applied to challenges such as the town fireworks and the senior center, and the affordable housing moratorium will help protect neighborhoods from developers who try to circumvent local zoning rules. [...] what I most appreciate now is the willingness of this team to continue to move forward in a positive fashion, and to keep their eye on what the vast majority of Darien elected them to do two years ago: solve problems. All three of them worked hard to coordinate recovery and keep us informed, whether through reverse 911 calls or regular Tweets and Facebook postings. The large crowd enjoyed sunny weather, coffee, music and enthusiastic conversation with Jayme, Dave, Jerry and other members of the talented slate of municipal candidates. Fiscally responsible longer term decisions such as the moratorium and affordable opportunities for residents like the fireworks are only a couple of examples. The Commission on Aging has long advocated for a reasonable change that would give Darien seniors a safe place for their programs and activities. Transferring the senior activities center to the area in Town Hall now designated as Board of Education space will present the town an opportunity to reduce operating responsibilities with one less building to maintain. The move will also make more efficient use of space the town already owns both at Town Hall and at 35 Leroy where the Board of Education will be relocated. Since it is planned to use new senior center space for other town groups, Darien also will gain a centrally located community center. There is certainly a cost to refit the Town Hall and 35 Leroy for this move, but town financial authorities have said this timing will have the least impact on our taxes. The RTM should then call a special meeting as soon as possible to vote on the facilities plan, and we ask its members to vote "yes" for a better Darien. The current group who hold such national office (with few shining exceptions) as well as the majority of Republican candidates who dream of being president seem to me to be heedless, extreme, intemperate and belligerent. The rising unemployment rate has left hundreds of thousands of Connecticut families without the income they need to make ends meet, while the volatility of the stock market has put people's retirement plans on hold. Many of our neighbors have also lost their homes, and are faced with the task of rebuilding their lives from the ground up. Fortunately for residents of lower Fairfield County, The Community Fund of Darien continues to ensure that families and individuals in crisis have access to resources they need -- especially in the most uncertain of times. Here at Family Centers, many of the people who come through our doors have suffered a major life-altering event -- whether it is the death of a loved one or prolonged unemployment. [...] thanks to the ongoing support of The Community Fund of Darien, Family Centers will remain a trusted resource for our area's most vulnerable families. For all you people who use the Okemo Valley (Ludlow and surrounding territory) for skiing, golfing, sight-seeing or just plain atmosphere, it would be a wonderful thing to help support these people.

A member of the Commission on Aging has recently written a letter to the editor and posted a message on a local news website noting his strong disapproval of the plan commonly known as the "shuffle." [...] the writer is the only member of the Commission who is opposed to the shuffle. d Would you like to demolish the existing senior center building, save the significant ongoing maintenance costs thereof, and reduce the amount of space owned by the town by more than 17,000 square feet?