Election '09: Greenwich Post endorsement

Wednesday, 28 October 2009 23:00

On Tuesday, Greenwich faces a very difficult choice between incumbent First Selectman Peter Tesei and his challenger Selectwoman Lin Lavery.

Both have strong résumés with different perspectives and visions for Greenwich’s future. While the campaign between them has turned far too contentious, that does not mask the fact that both are qualified to lead Greenwich. That is what has made this such a hard choice.

Mr. Tesei has done a good job as first selectman, but it is this paper’s belief that Ms. Lavery will better address issues the Post has long said need to be addressed. She has called for a plan to provide much needed senior and workforce housing, a new senior center and safety through Safe Routes to Schools. She brings a different perspective than past first selectmen with the drive we need right now. She has also pledged to fight for grant money for town projects and work across party lines to bring real solutions to lead this town through difficult economic times.

However, Ms. Lavery has promised a lot in this campaign and, if elected, must make good on her promises. Her task-oriented approach, which is evident in her leadership of the bipartisan Environmental Action Task Force, could benefit Greenwich as it tackles the difficult issues ahead. But we warn her against micromanaging. As a selectwoman she could center her focus on specific tasks but as first selectman she must focus on a bigger picture. We are confident her experience leading many multi-tasking organizations in town will help in this area.

Compared to the contentious race between Mr. Tesei and Ms. Lavery, the selectman battle between Republican David Theis and Democrat Drew Marzullo has barely caused a ripple of controversy. While Mr. Theis is a good man and a dedicated volunteer in town, Mr. Marzullo has been the star of the campaign season. Mr. Marzullo has brought a refreshing new voice to the campaign trail and has earned our support.

His experience as a paramedic for Greenwich Emergency Medical Services gives him a unique perspective that no other candidate can match. He has brought energy and passion to this campaign and he will serve the town well on the Board of Selectmen. He not only will be a tireless advocate for public safety, but will fight for increased workforce housing alongside Ms. Lavery. Mr. Marzullo will be a tremendous asset for the board.

In the race for tax collector, Greenwich is again blessed to have high caliber candidates. Democrat Bill Grad, Republican Tod Laudonia and independent Rick Novakowski all would be fine successors to the departing Lou Caravella, but Mr. Grad stands above. His sterling credentials, including degrees from Princeton and Stanford universities, and decades of managerial experience in the private sector, make him an outstanding candidate to run both the numbers and human side of this vital office. He is the right man for the position.