LOCAL Voices
This is the Redding Democrats page for Q&A, opinions, political analysis with a local angle, and more. While the content will be moderated by the Webmaster for length and political relevance, this is the place to share commentary and pose the questions you'd like answered by candidates.
ELECTION 2009
Peg O'Donnell, Incumbent Candidate for Town Treasurer, shares her thoughts on eight years in the role and what lies ahead:
- Just WHAT does the town treasurer do?
- Redding's debt: Where we stand now
- More sophisticated cash flow management needed during tough times
- When is a Town Treasurer like James Bond?
- Non-repayment of long-term debt threatens Redding
Mark Lewis, Incumbent Candidate for the Region 9 Board, on his board work and what lies ahead for Joel Barlow High School:
"My four years on Region 9 have seen the financial clean-up of the building project, renovation of the roof, track and theater, a master plan for facilities, addition of three AP and four other courses, a new Head of School, prudent budgets that have maintained the school’s high quality, and shortly a new Superintendent of Schools. I am seeking reelection to continue to increase the level of academic excellence at Barlow. Thank you for your continued support."
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GEORGETOWN REDEVELOPMENT
Rob Dean, Planning Commission Member: "The TIF proposal does represent an obligation, but not a risky obligation, for the town of Redding.... I want to tell you why I will be speaking and voting in favor of this measure, and why it is important for the town to take this step. I urge you to come to the [January 6] meeting - and to spread the word about the importance of this vote...." Click to continue reading.
Nick Simeonides, Finance Board Member: "Despite its characterization by some, GLDC’s proposal is neither simple nor clearcut. Most importantly, its passage raises unwarranted expectations. I recognize the exceptional work of many to bring into fruition the vision of a vibrant, mixed-use community village in Georgetown.....However, residents should be clear – entering into TIF offers no guarantee the Master Plan vision will be realized...." Click to continue reading.
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ELECTION 2008 ARCHIVE
Leon Karvelis, Election Day 2008 moderator: "[Redding] is very fortunate to have a Registrars Office that is superb. It is symbolic of where our nation needs to go. Here we have people of both political parties who don't get hung up on party labels, political philosophy, or ego and are concerned about one thing only: doing a good job on behalf of the people....It makes me proud to be a Reddingite and an American."
"After 8 years of Republican ideological incompetence, it is time for a return to honor, honesty, and competence in Washington...." This and other comments from Redding voters on the issues surrounding the presidential and other national races.
"In this turbulent world and these economic times, I can't think of a stronger person to represent me in Congress than Jim Himes...." Click here for more on this and other Redding comments on Jim Himes for U.S. Congress, 4th district
"[Hartwell] advocates a smarter, more balanced approach to growth that keeps a lid on taxes and protects the environment, local businesses and the treasured character of our communities...." This and other Redding comments on John Hartwell for Connecticut Senate.
"Jason Bartlett has experience in Hartford. He knows the process and the players. He has helped bring much needed funding to our region in the form of bonding of major projects. In these difficult times, please vote for the proven leader...." This and other Redding comments on Jason Bartlett,Connecticut House of Representatives, 2nd district