Tesoro Outlines Plan For Trumbull Government

TRUMBULL, CT — Democratic First Selectman candidate Vicki Tesoro is calling for a new relationship between the town government and residents.

“For the last eight years, we’ve seen a steady decline in debate, in inclusiveness and in a commitment to proper processes,” Tesoro said. “Focusing on the rules may not sound exciting, but we’ve seen a repeated willingness to ignore the perspectives of those who disagree with the current administration. "

Tesoro argues that a petition to return to seven voting districts should be put before voters in November as a referendum. Trumbull town attorneys have said that the power to reapportion voting districts is reserved exclusively for the Town Council, which makes the petition invalid. Town Council President Carl Massaro didn't put the matter before the Town Council.

Tesoro also said that no more money should be spent on the proposed community/senior center until a referendum in November takes place.

Tesoro also said she will work on the following as first selectman:

· Charter revision that returns the Board of Education to a six-member panel with staggered four-year terms, and no party holding more than three seats.

· Charter revision to clarify the determination of the “cost” of a project for referendum purposes. All costs, including, but not limited to, ancillary costs, land acquisition, associated municipal improvements, construction and the like must be included in the calculation.

· Charter revision requirement that legal services, not associated with the appointment of town attorneys, be selected after competitive bid.

· To have a balance of Republican, Democratic and Unaffiliated appointments to boards and commissions.

· Prohibition of Town Council votes on the same day a public hearing is held on a matter.

· Prohibition on all votes unless materials related to that vote are provided to members of any board or commission or the Town Council. Materials should be provided at least seven calendar days prior to a vote.

Create a town app and make it available to all residents free of charge. This will keep residents informed, allow town meetings to be streamed live and post-event, and allow for residents to interact virtually with all town departments.
· Send park stickers to taxpayers with their tax bills. This is a more efficient process that will alleviate residents having to show up at the Recreation Department or pay an additional fee to have a sticker mailed to them.

Patch file photo