Letter: Ex-Greenwich BET Member: 'Oberlander Will Be a Vote for Change'

I am writing to support Jill Oberlander as the State Representative for the 150th District.

This economically diverse district ranges along the shoreline from Byram in the west to Old Greenwich in the east. Over the past decade, this District has been represented by two very capable individuals, both of whom had extensive experience in Greenwich town government prior to going to Hartford. Despite their representation, however, Greenwich still pays 14% of all income tax in the state and receives between 1-3% in return. Greenwich also pays higher gasoline prices than the rest of the State, suffers from a crumbling transportation infrastructure and does not get the attention or funding it deserves. Both incumbent representatives blame this on the Democratic legislative majority in Hartford, a situation, which will not change.

What has to change, however, is having a voice at the majority table when the agenda is discussed and formulated. Jill spent six years serving on the RTM gaining the government experience and firsthand knowledge of this town that a Representative needs. Electing Jill Oberlander will be a vote for change, a vote to give Greenwich a voice in shaping the legislative agenda, a vote to allocate more money for our infrastructure, and a vote to bring Greenwich fiscal conservatism to Hartford. A vote for her opponent who has no government experience will ensure the status quo -- continued over-taxation and under-investment in our area by the State government.

It is time for change and a vote for Jill will send the message that Greenwich is more than just a source of funding for the rest of the State. If we elect Jill, she’ll use her government experience, legal skills, steely determination and collaborative nature to bring greater fiscal responsibility to Hartford.

Laurence B. Simon

Greenwich

Treasurer, Oberlander for Greenwich; Member, Town of Greenwich Retirement Board; Former Member, Board of Estimate and Taxation