The Hartford Courant recently posted answers to the second question in their "virtual campaign" feature.
The question for the Board of Directors candidates requested clarification regarding what advice town staff can provide in regards to zoning and building questions.
You can read the answers of Lisa O'Neill, Dave Sheridan, Kevin Zingler, Pamela Cranford, Jason Doucette and John Topping.
There are also two puzzling answers from the Republicans worth discussing.
In her shocking answer, Republican candidate Cherri Pelletier went well beyond the intent of the question and promised that under Republican leadership, "a change at the top of town management" would occur. Is Pelletier asserting that should the Republicans gain control of the Board of Directors that they would fire, demote or lateral the most experienced, knowledgeable and senior town staff? If so, why? Manchester has an envious bond rating, the lowest amount of money bonded per capita ($751) in the region (145th in the state), fantastic services that many residents depend on daily, a healthy fund balance, and a wonderful mix of commercial/residential development and a commitment to open space preservation. All of these successes are a result of a Democratic majority and a conscientious and skilled staff. Again, why would Manchester's residents want to cause such dramatic, and potentially dangerous, change?
In the same vein, Lou Spadacinni unnecessarily belittled town staff and claimed that contacting your local elected officials will bring about (desired) results if the answer provided is not ideal. Reading between the lines, it appears that Spadacinni is implying that elected officials should - and under his leadership would - "bring down the hammer" on town staff when they cannot, under the law, provide assistance or direction. As a lawyer, Spadacinni should know better.
As experienced members of the Board of Directors, Spadacinni's naivete and Pelletier's arrogance are astonishing and further demonstrates that a Republican majority would upend the town, bring about the elimination of town services, reduce productivity and hamstring positive, tangible change.
