To the Editor:
In response to a letter printed several days ago and as a member of the recently-discharged Charter Revision Commission, I would like to clarify several misleading statements made in reference to the recommended changes to the town’s charter.
- Concerning the modifications to the town assessor’s position: The commission changed the term of the appointment from four years to one year. Other appointed positions, unless mandated by further statutes, ordinances or special acts, are for one-year terms; therefore, the change in term makes it consistent with those of other appointed officials.
- Concerning the Director of Public Works position: This is not a new position. Currently the First Selectman is the Director of Public Works. In the event he/she does not wish to continue in this capacity, the charter gives the Board of Selectmen the option of considering a separate director. This position is not the same as the Highway Foreman.
- Concerning the position of Administrative Assistant to the First Selectman: The current secretary’s job is not being eliminated. Because that position has evolved over the past fifteen years with the growth of the town and the increased reliance on computer technology, the commission has provided for future modification. The charter re-defines this position into one which is more supportive for the First Selectman and the Board of Selectmen. Also, this in no way overlaps the duties or responsibilities of the existing position of Director of Finance.
- Concerning the First Selectman’s loss of oversight and authority: The present charter requires Town Clerk and Tax Collector staffs to come under the same personnel policies as all other hired and appointed employees. The Town Clerk and the Tax Collector, as elected officials, are responsible directly to the voters, not to the First Selectman.
The Board of Selectmen, including the First Selectman, and the voters
of the town of Killingworth have, and will continue to have, control
over the town government and its administration. There are no
new positions created; there are no political agendas involved. The
proposed charter allows the voters and administrators of the town of
Killingworth the opportunity to adapt to changes of need, of growth,
and of a forward-looking and responsible town government.
Helen S. Mahoney