To the Editor:

The Old Lyme November 7^th ballot includes voting for two incumbent members of the Planning Commission.  Barbara Gaudio (U) has lived in Old Lyme for three decades and brings to the Commission business experience, including experience with commercial real estate.  Donald Willis (R) is a 4^th generation resident of Old Lyme and has extensive construction experience, including being a senior bridge inspector prior to his retirement from the CT DOT.  Combined, they have approximately fifteen years of experience as members of the Planning Commission. 

Although their backgrounds are diverse, they share a common goal, the support of business development in OL while preserving the character of the town.  They were both very involved in the recent revision of the Old Lyme Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD).  When reviewing applications received by the Planning Commission, they focus on how the applicant has satisfied the existing regulations.  Their questions are thoughtful, thorough, and together, they bring a great deal of experience and knowledge to the review process.  

I believe that Barbara and Don are a great asset to the Planning Commission.  I ask Old Lyme voters to acknowledge their service and the benefit they bring to Old Lyme and vote for them on November 7th.  Thank you.    

Sincerely, 

Harold Thompson,
Old Lyme.

Editor’s Note: The author is the Chairman of the Old Lyme Planning Commission.

To the Editor:

It is without hesitation that I write to endorse Martha Shoemaker’s candidacy for First Selectwoman of Old Lyme. Martha has served the people of Old Lyme the past 2 years as a Selectwoman and from observation, has dedicated herself to maintaining the community and character of Old Lyme while always looking forward.

Martha is my wife’s oldest and dearest friend and for the past 40 years she has also been my friend. I have watched Martha’s dedication to her career as an educator but more importantly, her devotion to friends and family. I have been fortunate to know Martha and her husband and to watch how they cared for aging parents, raised their children and managed careers and friendships. 

During a visit to Martha’s home this summer, she took my wife and me on an extensive tour of Old Lyme. Martha’s pride and love for the community was obvious. Martha showed us the beautiful beaches, the historic areas and buildings and told us of her desire to make advancements such as reestablishing a flooding and erosion control board and addressing planning and zoning matters that will improve and protect Old Lyme.

I spent most of my professional career in municipal government, serving as a municipal engineer, director of public works and borough administrator and understand what it takes to run a small town. I am extremely impressed by Martha and see she has the skills required to serve the needs of Old Lyme. I recognize that Martha is a quick study, passionate, dedicated and determined to address the smallest issues raised by individual residents to townwide issues that affect all.

Again, I strongly endorse Martha Shoemaker’s candidacy for First Selectwoman of Old Lyme and ask that you give her your vote on November 7.

Sincerely,

Frank Zichelli, P.E., 
Manchester Center, VT.

Editor’s Note: Martha Shoemaker is the Old Lyme Democratic-endorsed candidate for Old Lyme Board of Selectmen.

To the Editor:

I strongly recommend electing Peter Hunt to a regular position on the Old Lyme Board of Assessment Appeals. What are the qualifications needed for the job? In my view they are fairness, intelligence and thoughtfulness. You will not find anyone who embodies those qualities better then Peter.

Having served six years as an Alternate on the BOAA, Peter is fully familiar with its procedures and protocols. He is also well-versed in the relevant legal principles regarding property assessments and the appeals process. More subtly, he has learned to listen closely to the arguments presented on both sides and to distinguish between fact and fancy.

Peter is now retired from a 42-year career in health care and education. His PhD in clinical psychology makes him particularly well-qualified to be an objective, careful and conscientious decision-maker.

He is a committed contributor to our community in many ways, serving as a director of the Lyme-Old Lyme Food Share Garden and the Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau. He is also a justice of the peace.

Our town will be well served to vote Peter into a regular position on the BOAA on November 7th.

Sincerely,

Joseph G Soucie,
Old Lyme.

Editor’s Note: Peter Hunt is endorsed by the Old Lyme Democrats for election to a four-year term to the Old Lyme Board of Assessment Appeals.