"During the past two years, Mr. Tesei has been the steady hand that Greenwich needs as it, along with the rest of the country, continues to recover from the economic crisis."
Since December 2007, I have been honored to serve as your First Selectman. The past four years have presented many challenges but, as always, the people of Greenwich have come together as a community to put Greenwich first to sustain and enhance our wonderful town.
During my tenure, I have worked closely with the members of the BET and the RTM to maintain our strong financial position throughout these difficult economic times. I firmly believe that under my leadership, Greenwich has made great strides not only from a financial but also from a management perspective. I have maintained modest and predictable tax rates for residents, strongly encouraged investment in our educational facilities, enhanced the quality of our emergency services, and continued support for our seniors.
In recognition of the national recession, I proposed an operational budget for 2009-2010 which was 4.5% lower than the previous year. During 2010/2011 and in this year’s upcoming budget, I have continued my efforts to pare down the Town’s core expenses to protect our future viability. This year’s operational budget (2011/12) proposed a modest 0.5% increase without compromising necessary town services. The four capital budgets that I proposed and which were implemented have reflected the genuine need for investment in our town infrastructure, particularly with respect to educational and public safety facilities. By working together with town employees and town leadership, I have been able to keep the promises I have made.
I am particularly proud of the investment in our school system. The new Glenville and Hamilton Avenue Schools are examples of Greenwich’s commitment to public school education. The upcoming Music Instructional Space and Auditorium (MISA) project at Greenwich High School, which I have strongly supported since inception, will allow our students to thrive and will serve our community for decades to come. As a parent of two young children, support for our schools also dovetails with my long held belief in the neighborhood character of Greenwich. I am also proud of my record of advocacy for our seniors, the respect for our environment, and my continued commitment to open and transparent government.
Throughout my four-year tenure as the town’s chief elected official, and during my twenty plus years of business, community and government service, I believe I have demonstrated thoughtful and prudent leadership and the ability to make tough decisions.
Please support my re-election as First Selectman. I pledge to continue to provide the experience you trust and leadership that works. Most of all, I am committed to continuing to put Greenwich first.
