We Wilton residents are fortunate to live in a town with clean water, clean air and an abundance of recreational opportunities. We appreciate our town leaders and the many years some have given to oversee town business.
Unfortunately, in recent years, those same leaders have chosen to represent a very small fraction of our population: those engaged in profiting from unbridled land development at the expense of the general welfare of town residents who face increased congestion and reduced quality of life. This year Wilton residents are fortunate to have a choice of some highly qualified men and women who are eager to represent all town residents, not just a select few.
Twenty-five years ago Wilton was a town of 11,000 residents. Now, with a population of almost 18,000 our demographics have changed. There are new techniques for dealing with paving roads and snow removal and progressive ideas for enhancing our quality of life.
Three incumbents, all Republicans, have held their positions for a collective 97 years, almost a century. Our current Supervisor has held a position on the town board or as supervisor for 25 years, our highway superintendent for 32 years, and our town justice for 40 years. These positions have gone unopposed for decade after decade.
Rather than encouraging any development that arrives at their doorstep, which will only increase traffic congestion and overwhelm our classrooms, policies should be put in place to make sure that all new development will enhance the character of our town and the quality of life for those residents already living here. Our present leaders are not innovative in addressing these and other issues. They have become complacent knowing their jobs are safe.
Let’s make a change and give Wilton the enthusiastic, qualified and progressive stewardship it deserves. It is long overdue.
Jim Zack
Wilton
