Vanderslice: Endorsement of Josh Cole and Lori Bufano

**This is a letter from a Patch reader, and not necessarily the opinion of Patch**

Experienced, Knowledgeable, Thoughtful, Collaborative and Committed. Five characteristics of an ideal public official. And five characteristics that describe Josh Cole and Lori Bufano. Making them the right candidates to continue to serve our community on the Boards of Selectmen and Education.

Josh and Lori have a demonstrated understanding of the importance of improving Wilton’s schools, recreational amenities, infrastructure and natural environment, while ensuring Wilton remains the more affordable option versus neighboring communities with equally outstanding schools. We already know they will perform the required due diligence and collaborate with fellow board members and other boards in a nonpartisan manner to develop the best solutions. Their temperaments naturally facilitate collaboration.

While on the Board of Selectmen, both were decision makers on major building projects, which will be of value as they consider the needs assessments for town and school buildings. They have demonstrated the required knowledge and experience to allow them to balance residents’ desire for reasonable taxes at a time when costs and interest rates are increasing.

As of December 1st, Josh will be the longest serving member on the Board of Selectmen. With a new first selectwoman, Josh’s experience, knowledge and history will be critical. His professional background as a real estate transactional attorney has already been of benefit to the Board and the Town.

Lori’s experience as a procurement professional will bring much needed skills and knowledge to the Board of Education.

I know Josh and Lori well, having worked with them on the Board of Selectmen for 5+ and 6 years, respectively and for three years each on the Water Pollution Control Authority. Josh is the current Second Selectmen having received the unanimous support of his fellow board members. Lori previously served in the role.

To operate effectively, our elected boards need a mix of experienced and less experienced members. In a large field of candidates, many with no prior elected office experience, Josh and Lori each stand out with more than nine and fifteen years of service, respectively.

Please join me in voting for Josh Cole and Lori Bufano on November 7th.

Lynne A. Vanderslice