November 4, 2009

Dear Fellow Republicans:

My sincere thanks to all who went to the polls last Tuesday to re-elect First Selectman Tom Herrmann, Selectman Scott Centrella and the entire slate of Republican-endorsed candidates for various elected offices here in Easton. It was an impressive and resounding Republican victory in every respect and I am most appreciative to all of you for your vote, your donations and your participation in the campaign. It underscores, once again, that the Republican Party has managed the town well over many years as well as the confidence of the voters that this will continue as we face new challenges.

Not only was it a great day for Republicans here in Easton but around Connecticut and, indeed, around the country. Our voices resonated loud and clear and the voters responded positively with Republican victories in surrounding towns as well, especially in the neighboring town of Trumbull where an entrenched Democrat was solidly defeated for First Selectman by a rising, young Republican. I look forward to November 2010 when we will defeat Democratic U.S. Senator Chris Dodd and first-term U.S. Representative Jim Himes.

I am particularly delighted about convincingly winning all three seats on the Easton Board of Finance. Due to minority party representation rules, however, only current Board member, Mark Pompa, will serve as Republicans already have the maximum number of seats (4) allowed. I am most thankful to Christine Calvert and Chris Griffin, who were also victorious, but will not be able to serve at this time on this board for the above reason.

The voters clearly recognized the great job that our Town Clerk, Derek Buckley, has done over the last 6 years by giving him another two year term. Derek has certainly made this office a model for others to emulate by changing it from a "cost to a revenue center" for the Town.

The Region 9 Board of Education (Joel Barlow High School) will be well represented by incumbent board member Cathy Gombos and her newly-elected colleague, Dr. Bill Baker. This is a challenging and demanding position as the board not only overseas the education/curriculum of the high school but acts as a board of finance as well. Both Cathy and Bill are up to the challenge. It would be nice to see more participation at board meetings by Easton (and Redding) residents.

In closing, I applaud all candidates from all political parties for their participation in the campaign and appreciate all their time, energy and resources over these recent months. It is only through the dedication of so many volunteers of all parties that Easton is run so well. Consider becoming involved in either town or party affairs by contacting me or your First Selectman, Tom Herrmann, directly.

Again, many thanks for all your support and I look forward to seeing you at our party caucus on January 12, 2010 to elect members of your Town Committee for a two year term.

Yours truly,

Hugh J. Barry Chairman,
Republican Town Committee

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