Letter to the Editor: Elect Fogliano to Old Lyme Zoning Commission to Benefit From His ‘Deep Knowledge … Open Mind’

To the Editor:

I served with Michael Fogliano on the Affordable Housing Exploratory Committee which he chaired in 2020-21. Michael’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the Town’s housing future. Under his guidance, the Committee navigated complex and unfamiliar legislation with clarity and purpose, delivering well-researched recommendations to the Board of Selectmen on time and as charged. That work directly led to the creation of the Affordable Housing Commission and the Town’s first Affordable Housing Plan which was milestone for our community.

Michael brings a proven record of thoughtful decision-making, strong work ethic, a deep knowledge of zoning and housing policy and an open mind. These qualities make him an outstanding candidate for the Zoning Commission. I will be voting for Michael Fogliano and encourage you to join me in supporting him.

Sincerely,

Tom Ortoleva,
Old Lyme.

Letter to the Editor: Danenhower Disrespected Due Process on Zoning Commission, Elect Alternate Fogliano to Full Term

To The Editor:

Sloan Danenhower wants us to see him as a local hero for his strident opposition to the Halls Road Overlay District (HROD) proposal. To be clear – as a member of the public, his opposition was an appropriate part of the public discourse that he had every right to express.

However, as documented in the minutes of the HROD public hearing on January 15th of this year, Mr. Danenhower, while sitting at the Zoning Commission table, stepped away to speak as a member of the public in opposition to the application.

That behavior, at best, demonstrated a lack of understanding of the role of the Zoning Commission, abandonment of his responsibilities as a Zoning Commission member, and disrespect for the fair due process afforded to all applicants. At worst, had this been a private application, it could have subjected the Town to costly litigation.

Mr. Danenhower can’t have it both ways. The Town needs Zoning Commission members who possess the judgment and temperament needed to handle controversial matters appropriately. Michael Fogliano brings those qualities to the Zoning Commission as an alternate. We now have the opportunity to elect him to a full five-year term. 

Sincerely,

Betsy Groth,
Old Lyme.

Letter to the Editor: Fogliano Will Use Analytic, Research Skills Gained as Career Scientist to Benefit Old Lyme Zoning Commission

To the Editor:

More than ever, The [Old Lyme] Zoning Commission needs thoughtful, systematic, and forward-looking members as it faces the formidable task of revising the present code. Michael Fogliano is just such a candidate.

I worked closely with Michael on the first Affordable Housing Commission in Old Lyme in 2021 when he was elected chairperson. Utilizing his career training as a scientist, Michael applied careful analytic and research skills to help the Commission bring forward the first viable affordable housing project in over 20 years with bi-partisan support.

As a current alternate member of The Zoning Commission, Michael is very knowledgeable about the issues which face Old Lyme and will use the same approach which has been his hallmark to deal with them in a fair and balanced manner. I am confident that Michael Fogliano will be an outstanding Zoning Commissioner and believe he is worthy of your vote on November 4.

Sincerely,

William J. Belluzzi,
Old Lyme.