Toni Boucher’s Remarks On The Race For Wilton’s Next First Selectman

**News Release Submitted by the Wilton Republican Town Committee**

July 27, 2023

"Toni Boucher’s Remarks on the Race for Wilton’s Next First Selectman"

When Lynne Vanderslice announced her retirement as Wilton’s First Selectman, like so many, I was disappointed at the loss of her steady and sound stewardship of our town at the end of this year. Many residents have since asked me to consider running for this position. My response was that I believed my time in public service was over and that my 16 races and 14 wins was a good record to retire on. Since leaving political office, I have enjoyed actively encouraging and mentoring a younger generation of volunteers interested in local politics. As a result of introducing Democrats and Republicans to their respective Wilton town committees, good outcomes have been achieved for both parties.

The many years of raising my family, serving, and working in Wilton have made me passionate about the town’s wellbeing. After much deliberation, I have decided to come out of retirement because of my concern at the increasingly negative tenor of discourse within our community and nation. It is dismaying and I feel strongly that a more civil, welcoming, and inclusive climate is needed.

We can start by taking off our political hats and putting on our town hat. The good work of town employees, administration, and boards needs to be respected and continued. A positive, nonpartisan, and civil climate can be achieved by working together with consideration and inclusion by all sides of our community. I truly believe that by doing this and taking advantage of Wilton’s immense intellectual resources, we can meet whatever challenges and opportunities presented to us and continue to take pride in the town we love.

My race for First Selectman will focus on championing our great schools; great neighborhoods; great fiscal management; continuing the great legacy created by our First Selectman and the Board of Selectmen; and supporting the dedicated employees serving our great town. I thank Lynne Vanderslice for the sound and steady stewardship of our town along with the two Republicans on the Board of Selectmen that have put Wilton on a good path. We need this kind of collaborative leadership going forward.

There is a need for people who can work well with town residents and employees who will show them respect and earn their trust. Tonight’s outstanding slate is just what Wilton needs to move the town forward.