Retired Jockey Hollow Teacher seeks Dem Nomination for Tax Collector

The table continues to be set for the races for positions in Monroe's municipal government. Daniel Hunsberger recently announced his intention to run for first selectman on the Democratic Party ticket, and now another Democrat wants to run for office.

Jerry Stevens, who recently retired as a teacher at Jockey Hollow Middle School, plans to make a run for tax collector, a position held by longtime Republican incumbent Emanuel "Manny" Cambra.

Stevens sent the following letter to Monroe Democratic Town Committee Chairman Nick Kapoor over the weekend:

Yes, it is true. I, Jerry Stevens, have retired from the Monroe School system.  I am writing this letter for two reasons.  First, I would like to thank you all, students, parents, colleagues and the Town of Monroe for a fantastic 34 years.  It has been an honor, privilege and pleasure to teach in my hometown my whole career.  Second, I would like to announce my intention to seek the nomination of the Monroe Democratic Town Committee for Tax Collector.

So wait a minute, what makes a Technology Education Teacher (Wood Shop) qualified to be our next Tax Collector?  There are many reasons.  I have been a public servant for Monroe my whole adult life.  My Bachelor’s Degree is in Industrial Arts (Technology Education).  My Master’s Degree is in Counseling and my Sixth Year Degree is in School Administration.  My education background, along with teaching over 10,000 of our incredible students, has allowed me to develop many important skills.  I am a facilitator, an educator, a great listener, a negotiator, and a problem-solver.  I was distinguished as Monroe Teacher of The Year in 2006 for my dedication and hard work ethic. These are innate and learned characteristics that I have honed and perfected over my years of service to Monroe that will enable me to serve you as your Tax Collector. 

As Monroe’s Tax Collector, I will:

·       Create and maintain a transparent operation of our tax collector’s office

·        Promote an effective informational exchange between taxpayers and town hall through regularly scheduled information sessions with taxpayers

·       Explore and coordinate access to town social services as related to financial assistance that may be available to citizens

·        Offer flexible hours to better service our community’s needs

·        Provide timely communication to inquiries

·        Maintain a courteous environment and manner

·        Investigate streamlining payment process

·       Be effective, efficient and accountable with my door open to all at all times

Finally, I would like to thank you again for your years of support and, with my approved nomination on July 16th, I hope for your continued support in the ballot box this November.

Sincerely,

Jerry Stevens