Hartmann Lacks Knowledge of First Selectman Role

In a recent letter to the editor regarding Hartmann's support of the Guilford School District, he insinuates that his opponent for the Republican nomination for First Selectman, Ken MacKenzie, is going to act to close a school if elected. MacKenzie believes the release is not only bad politics but also reflects his opponent’s failure to understand the limitations of the office that he and Hartmann are seeking.

“Despite claiming to run an honest and transparent campaign that has no false claims, no inaccurate boasts and no dirty campaigning, I am saddened that Bob has chosen this path to do quite the opposite,” said Mr. MacKenzie. “Bob has resorted to one of the oldest tricks in the book – trying to manipulate parents of school-aged children into thinking that if I get into office I am going to work against education.”

MacKenzie points out how foolish Hartmann’s claim is based on the facts: “Unlike my opponent, my wife Holly and I chose Guilford to raise our family in large part because of its excellent education opportunities. We have two young boys attending Guilford schools and are very active in the school community, as are many of our friends with school-aged children. We have taken every opportunity to keep ourselves informed on the health of the schools, not only on matters related to academic performance and the administration’s and teacher's initiatives to constantly improve performance, but also on school climate issues. We are very cognizant of the potential impact of spending cuts, which is why you have never heard me suggest measures that I felt would negatively impact our children’s education. With that said, I have scrutinized spending, asked difficult questions, and at times asked what the ramifications would be of reduced spending. This is my public record – something Bob lacks.”

A member of the Board of Finance, MacKenzie added that Hartmann’s claim reveals that Hartmann does not understand the basics of the budget process because it is not within the duties of the Board of Selectmen to make decisions about the Board of Education budget, including curriculum or facilities. “That is completely within the purview of the Board of Education as it should be,” said Mr. MacKenzie. “Bob should be aware of this if he wants to serve our Town but maybe he is banking on parents not understanding the process to get their votes.”

If elected, MacKenzie will continue to promote a greater cooperation and collaboration with the Superintendent and the Board of Education, to implement a long-term town-wide comprehensive capital plan for all town and educational facilities. “Our schools need continued support from our community. However, a greater partnership and support between the Office of the First Selectman and the Superintendent needs to occur to ensure that reduced monies from the State do not negatively impact the quality of education for our children,” said Mr. MacKenzie. “As First Selectman, I will continue to work hard with the Board of Education, and with our Superintendent of Schools, to secure an exceptional education for all of Guilford’s children – my own as well as yours.”