What concerns Democrats

Written by John Kalamarides
Wednesday, 28 October 2009 13:08

This contested race for the Board of Finance is important because it is giving voters a real choice. The election of our two candidates will add balance to discussions and decisions of the Board of Finance. This is vitally important in an uncertain economy when many Wiltonians are concerned about taxes, keeping their jobs, paying their mortgages, and keeping their homes.

Deborah McFadden, vice chair of the Democratic Town Committee said, “Many senior citizens are concerned about this race, because it could impact how the town handles senior assistance.”

Carol Ball, a member of the campaign committee, remarked, “Based on telephone calls I have made to registered Democrats, there is a lot of interest in this contested election.”

Andy Pforzheimer is the chief executive officer of a successful, highly-regarded restaurant business. A 19-year resident, he and Zelie, his wife, will receive this year’s Distinguished Citizens awards from Wilton YMCA. Their three children have attended Wilton public schools. He is a respected community leader, and a seasoned and reasoned voice on the BOF and now the longest serving member of that board.

Chris Stroup, with decades of distinguished financial experience, is founder and chief executive officer of Wilton Re. His is a 15-year resident of Wilton having moved here with wife to raise a family so that their children could attend Wilton’s public schools. He, too, is a respected community leader, excited about putting his expertise to work serving Wilton to help maintain financial strength and enhance its financial planning, and committed to engaging the town with the Board of Finance in constructive dialogue.

Our two candidates have all the qualifications for the Board of Finance.

The newest Republican candidate for the Board of Finance does not have all the qualifications that our two candidates have of financial expertise, long-termresidency in Wilton, children in Wilton schools, and recognized as a community leader.

People have been very responsive to Chris and Andy, who are known as longtime residents, active community participants, dedicated parents of children in the public schools. People have been understandably impressed with both Andy and Chris for the depth of their financial knowledge and business experience. While each is highly successful, people like that they are both unassuming, and very approachable. People sense that they think for themselves, have their own views and engage people in thoughtful dialogue.

Everyone is concerned about town finances in the context of this difficult economic time. They want people with real experience, but also with understanding and insight. They want people who understand the need for collaboration, seeking cooperative solutions to problems that can make even difficult times less burdensome.-

They want representatives who know how to be penny-wise without being pound-foolish. And they don’t want current financial challenges used as an excuse to turn back the clock... on Wilton’s progress.

We are very pleased with the important bi-partisan endorsements our candidates have earned. We cannot remember two Democratic candidates being endorsed by prominent Republicans.

Paul Hannah, former Republican first selectman and Board of Finance chairman, has endorsed Chris Stroup, noting his financial expertise and his “deep commitment to preserving Wilton values and traditions.”

Bob Russell, former Republican first selectman and Charter Commission chair, has endorsed Andy Pforzheimer’s re-election, calling him “an outstanding Wilton citizen.”

State Rep. Peggy Reeves has strongly endorsed both Andy and Chris, saying “We have a choice in the race for Board of Finance. When I cast my vote, I am going to be supporting Carl ‘Andy’ Pforzheimer and Chris Stroup.”

These long-time town residents from both parties clearly understand the importance of this election for Wilton.

In addition, we are very grateful to Congressman Jim Himes for his endorsements of both Andy and Chris. “I have known both Andy and Chris for a number of years, and respect and admire their commitment and contributions to Wilton,” Rep. Himes said in his endorsement letter. “Andy and Chris are exceptional candidates, who bring to the table a deep understanding of Wilton’s unique character, coupled with strong financial expertise and business acumen. I hope to work closely with them as they keep Wilton fiscally strong and sound.”

Ms. McFadden has said, “I cannot remember in my 11 years on the Democratic Town Committee this much energy around a municipal election.”

Mr. Kalamarides is chairman of the Democratic Town Committee.