To the Editor:

My name is Sarah Michaelson.  I am the Democratic candidate for Old Lyme Tax Collector in the upcoming election.

For the past 5 years I have been the bookkeeper for several local small business owners, while also caring for my two children.  Through this work I have not only refined my accounting skills, I have also learned about the needs and challenges of the local business community.

This past summer I was fortunate to work temporarily as the town Tax Collector’s assistant.  My time in this position gave me insight into many improvements that could be made to increase the efficiency of this office for the benefit of the town’s taxpayers.  Examples include extending hours to include at least one weekend day per month, incorporating advanced technology and improving the customer experience. I decided to run for this position in order to make these changes and otherwise to ensure that the office serves your (the customer’s) needs.  

I look forward to providing my experience and education to the residents of Old Lyme.  I would appreciate your vote for Old Lyme Tax Collector on November 5 at the Cross Lane Firehouse.

Sincerely,

Sarah E. Michaelson,
Old Lyme.

To the Editor:

As Election Day draws near and we prepare to cast our votes, there are still some who are undecided. Each side makes its best case, but that sometimes includes misleading claims and information. Though part of the political process, this is often the reason many turn away from voting.

With that in mind, please consider these facts regarding some of my administration’s accomplishments. Over the last eight years, mill rate increases have been minimal while our surplus increased substantially, resulting in our being ranked 5th in CT for fiscal stability. We have focused on taking care of our basic infrastructure–our roads, buildings and equipment– and OSHA rated us in the top two municipalities after a recent inspection. We have ensured that Town Hall maintains a friendly, helpful environment for citizens and visitors. Our Senior Center has increased attendance several-fold, with vibrant programs and fabulous presentations. The fields at Town Woods Park are now in excellent shape, Rogers Lake has been treated for weeds safely and effectively, and Sound View has seen one major upgrade completed, with a second phase under way. We have begun a broad-based community conversation about improving the Halls Road neighborhood. Both Mary Jo and I attend many board and commission meetings to stay on top of the current issues, and we respond quickly to citizen concerns.

Of course, my opponent criticizes my role on the Connecticut Port Authority. I worked very hard there to have a positive economic impact on the region, which it will. I always behaved with integrity and in full compliance with all ethical guidelines, as has now been reported. However, I was insensitive to how the transaction might appear to the public, and for that I am deeply sorry.

I urge everyone to look at my 16-year record of service to Old Lyme, which demonstrates that I have always focused solely on the best interests of the Town. As you cast your vote next Tuesday, please do what is best for the Town and vote Row A.

Sincerely,

Bonnie Reemsnyder,
Old Lyme.