​ Alternative facts in Milford's mayoral race

Milford mayoral candidates Kerri Rowland and Tony Giannattasio recently participated in a community conversation hosted by All In for Milford. Addressing questions about affordable housing, food insecurity and other issues, the candidates spoke directly with voters, and Milford's government TV channel MGAT recorded the conversation for all to see. Those who haven't can watch the video here.

In a discussion about taxes and affordability, Rowland referred to her past experience serving on the Milford Senior Tax Relief Committee, which implemented tax breaks for seniors. Giannattasio responded by making a surprising claim, saying he had "looked it up," and that Rowland had actually never served on the Senior Tax Relief Committee.

Giannattasio accused Rowland of lying. Rowland, however, stood by her statements.

The exchange created a tension that was palpable, as well as that resulted in the host taking the mic from Tony and apologizing for him going "off the rails."

Impressed with how poised and calm Rowland remained during Giannattasio's bizarre attack -- yet curious about what had transpired -- I entered "kerri rowland milford ct senior tax relief" into a Google search that evening. Rowland is a city official who has always had my trust, and that Google search reminded me why: The very first result was a link to official meeting minutes for the Senior Tax Relief Committee, which are a matter of public record and available on the City of Milford website. Here's a link to an example. The minutes not just clearly list Rowland as a member, but they summarize what she said during each meeting.

It's imperative that a leader know the facts before making a statement of any kind, but particularly before making an accusation. Elected officials like mayors have a special obligation to be careful about what they say, ensuring that they never become part of the culture of "alternative facts" that has slithered out from former President Trump's administration and into local politics.

It's not my place to judge Giannattasio's intent. Nonetheless, attacking someone's integrity with a claim that can be disproven so easily, with a nearly instant web search, does not display a great respect for the truth.

Words matter, and we can't have a mayor who uses them so carelessly. Truth is also essential, which is why Rowland has my trust. I'll be voting for her on November 7 and urging everyone I talk with between now and then to do the same.

Cindy Wolfe Boynton, Milford CT