To the Editor,
Over the years, I have been privileged to work closely with Tony Scott during my time in office as First Selectman. Monroe is fortunate to have Tony as our State Representative.
Whenever a resident or business owner raises a concern involving state government, Tony is engaged and responsive. Tony has proven that he listens to his community and brings our voice to Hartford.
The work of our legislators can be complex. What may appear, on the surface, to be a great new idea may have significant unintended consequences. We must always strive to achieve the right balance. Tony understands this, and has always asked the question, “what is this going to cost, and who is going to pay for it?”
Unfunded state mandates often result in difficult choices for towns like Monroe. Forced by law to pay for new programs and requirements, towns are left to decide whether to cut services elsewhere or raise property taxes.
Tony always asks how new legislation will impact the local budget. Tony has proven that he will stand up against these “one size fits all” state laws, and fight for greater local control when it comes to spending your local tax dollars.
On the other side of the equation, Tony is a strong advocate for securing state grants. State funding to support our schools is a prime example. Education comprises the largest slice of a municipal budget, and unfunded state mandates in our public schools are a significant driver of those costs.
Like other towns, Monroe relies upon state grants to partially offset those costs. Tony has proven, year after year, to forcefully advocate for Monroe’s share of education grants.
Tony’s leadership and passion for serving our community is exemplary. I will proudly cast my vote to keep Tony Scott as our State Representative.
Ken Kellogg,
Former Monroe First Selectman
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