In Support of Rob Smith

I am proud to endorse the candidacy of Robert “Rob” Smith for Selectman in East Haddam.  I had the pleasure of working with Rob for more than three decades in the CT Department of Environmental Protection State Parks Division.  Rob spent his 37?-year career in public service in Connecticut’s beautiful state parks and forests including supervision of such high-profile facilities as Gillette Castle and Rocky Neck State Parks. He excelled at insuring that every facility he managed was well-maintained, safe and welcoming for the thousands of visitors and campers that thronged to these parks every year.  Rob’s considerable talent for managing budgets, staff, park construction projects and year-round maintenance of the state’s recreation facilities, elevated him to the position of Assistant Director of CT State Parks with the responsibility of managing the field operations and budgets of 107 parks, 32 forests and 126 full-time staff.

Supervision of large parks and campgrounds is not unlike operating a small town.  Issues common to both parks and municipalities include; challenging budgets, aging infrastructure, land management issues, equipment replacement and natural disasters.   Rob adeptly tackled each of these issues in a timely and cost effective manner, always insuring that visitors were never short-changed in their park experience.

Rob’s strength is finding efficiencies in operations, often resulting in considerable savings. He is a capable project manager with a talent for completing construction on time and under budget. He is an outspoken advocate for the environment and public lands. His dedication to the mission of the East Haddam Land Trust including numerous speaking engagements and educational nature walks are examples of his enthusiasm and desire to encourage people to care about their town and environment.

Your vote for Rob Smith this November will result in a forthright and strong leader who will work tirelessly to pursue his passion for improving his community and the lives of those he serves. 

Pamela Aey Adams

Retired Director CT State Parks