Letter to the Editor: Hampton for State Representative

Letter to the Editor:

I had the great fortune of meeting John Hampton many years ago when he was a Selectman in Simsbury. As long as I have known him, John has been a serious, hardworking citizen who uses his talents, energy and devotion to his constituency to address issues and get results.  He knows us well as he grew up in Simsbury, attended Tariffville School and graduated from the University of Hartford.

John has always cared a great deal about Simsbury and works tirelessly to fight to ensure the best quality of life possible for us. He demonstrates hands-on concern for veterans through his work to gather donations each winter for the Veterans Home in Rocky Hill. And John always strongly supports programs and services for veterans.

The environment is an area where I feel strong actions at the local, state, federal and global levels are urgent.

John has already taken actions locally: He started the town’s first Clean Energy Task Force to embrace green practices; created Gifford’s Green Conversations Named in honor of Simsbury's own Gifford Pinchot (1st Chief of the U.S. Forest Service) - these education forums address key environmental issues, providing overviews of specific green initiatives and "conversations" on how the town can become more "green.”   He championed the Wild & Scenic designation of the Farmington River and was also instrumental in securing the designation for Simsbury as a "Bike Friendly Community," enhancing and promoting the trail system.

At the State Capitol, John will support transportation measures that reduce environmental impact, protect the current ban on toxic pesticides on school grounds and promote efficient use and planning of water supplies by providing incentives for utilities to encourage water conservation.

John is the only candidate in the race endorsed by the CT league of Conservation Voters.

John has been a tireless advocate for senior citizens. He initiated the town’s first Senior Tax Relief Program. And I can attest that last year when I had two different serious surgeries, John touched base with me for weeks after each to see if I needed groceries or other errands run. It is amazing that he can do so much and also reach out individually to help people in need. At the State Capitol, John will introduce legislation to provide relief for seniors in the areas of healthcare and transportation.

I marvel at the way the Town of Simsbury Budget is so tightly managed while providing us a community rich in educational, social and town services. John is a fiscal conservative and his sound financial approach will serve the entire state of Connecticut well when he is elected to the state legislature.

I hope that you will join me in supporting John Hampton for State Representative on November 6^th.

Sincerely,

Liz Sheridan
Tariffville, CT 06081