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Callahan and Ginsburg, running for 108th District, share Candlewood Lake as priority but little else

Callahan and Ginsburg, running for 108th District, share Candlewood Lake as priority but little else

by Kendra Baker, Oct 7, 2022

Patrick Callahan and Jeff Ginsburg have little in common, aside from their love of Candlewood Lake.

As they seek to be elected state representative of Connecticut’s 108th House District this November, the candidates present distinctive perspectives on how to improve the state and cite different priorities from addressing youth crime to supporting senior citizens.

Callahan is a longtime New Fairfield resident, seeking a second term in the seat he’s held since defeating Democrat Dannette Onofrio in the 2020 election.

“I’m looking forward to how productive I can be with the relationships I’ve taken the past two years to develop,” said the Republican incumbent, who has served on the legislature’s Education, Environment, Judiciary and Juvenile Justice Policy & Oversight committees.

“You’re getting your feet wet your freshman first two years,” Callahan said, “and I feel like I’ve made some really great connections and working relationships with both sides of the aisle.”

Ginsburg — a Democrat who’s lived in Sherman for nearly 20 years — said he decided to run for the 108th House District seat for several reasons.

“I realized that the towns have a number of common interests, and I’ve gotten to a point in my life where I like advocating for those interests,” he said. “I have a threshold of experience working in and with local organizations, and I think it’s time that I start giving back.”

In addition to serving as chair of the Sherman Democratic Town Committee, Ginsburg is a founding member of both the Sherman Artists Association and the Great Hollow Photographers Club. He’s also a member of the board of directors for the Candlewood Yacht Club in New Fairfield and chairs the organization’s finance committee.

Whoever is elected in November will represent a slightly different 108th House District. As a result of recent changes to Connecticut’s voting district lines, the 108th will include a larger number of New Fairfield constituents as of 2023.

The town’s southwestern corner — which currently belongs to the 138th House District — will become part of the 108th, joining all of Sherman, a section of western New Milford and part of northern Danbury.

Candlewood Lake

Both candidates said Candlewood Lake would be among their top priorities if elected or re-elected representative of the 108th House District.

The issues they say they would focus on, though, are different.

Ginsburg said serving on the Candlewood Yacht Club’s board of directors for the last 10 years has given him a greater understanding of the lake, as well as the impact it has — and could have — on the area.

“The five towns on the lake — four of which are in the 108th District — do not have a commission where they work together to enhance the economy as the lake contributes to that,” he said. “That would be something … that I would advocate for from my position.”

Ginsburg said such a commission would differ from the Candlewood Lake Authority in that its primary focus would be the “economic aspect” of the lake.

“The lake is very important to me. I live on the lake, I recreate on the lake and I know that it’s a critical economic force for our area’s economy,” he said.

Callahan — who served as chairman of the Candlewood Lake Authority for 10 years — said Candlewood Lake is “always a top priority,” and he also has concerns about Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield.

“The issues we’re having at Squantz with the influx of out-of-staters through the summer months on the weekends have to be addressed,” he said. “I’m also really concerned about people parking their cars wherever they want and walking with children down Route 39 to Squantz Pond when it’s full.”

It’s been a safety concern for years and town officials have tried to restrict people walking along the road to get to the park — either by asking the state to restrict walk-ins or cracking down on illegal parking in town — but the problem persists.

Callahan: Affordability and juvenile crime

If re-elected, Callahan said some of his other priorities would be affordability and juvenile crime.

“Affordability is the top one,” he said. “In the past two years, Democrats have passed a couple of new gas taxes that are going to cost us a lot of money on the highway use tax and the diesel tax.”

Driven by wholesale fuel prices that more than doubled over the past year, the tax on diesel saw a 9.1 cent increase in July — six months before the imposition of Connecticut’s new highway use tax on large commercial trucks, which is expected to cost the industry millions of dollars per year.

“We use diesel to heat our homes and any tax you put on a truck delivering goods is going to get passed down onto the consumer,” Callahan said. “We continue to tax people that serve us and it continues to drive up the cost of living in Connecticut — even more so than inflation.”

Callahan — who worked in law enforcement for almost 30 years — said juvenile crime is still a problem, and one he would keep fighting to address if re-elected.

He said part of the ongoing juvenile crime problem is that the courts go too easy on youthful offenders.

“In the pre-trial process, there’s no accountability. There’s nothing being done to curb it,” Callahan said. “There has to be consequences, and right now there aren’t.”

Even though Republicans presented “several different solutions” in the past two sessions that all got voted down, Callahan said he’s determined to continue trying.

“I’ve worked with so many different groups of people and kids to turn their lives around,” he said. “If they’re not getting disciplined and not seeing consequences early on, they think they can keep doing this forever and it escalates into larger crimes — and then they wind up in jail.”

Ginsburg: Senior citizens and zoning

If elected, Ginsburg said one of his other priorities would be “ensuring that senior residents have good options for staying and enjoying the area.”

He said he would focus on what can be done financially and organizationally at the state level to “improve what’s going on for the seniors.”

When asked if housing would be part of his focus, Ginsburg said he would work with the towns “to see what resources are available from the state level,” but the decision would ultimately be up to them.

“I would certainly be in the mix, asking questions and making sure people are making decisions very explicitly — but the towns would have to drive it and decide to what extent,” he said.

Ginsburg said he knows several older residents who had to move out of the area due to a lack of alternative, smaller-scale housing options. He also knows the topic of housing development can be controversial.

“With some people, there’s that not-in-my-backyard kind of syndrome — and others say, ‘Look, people are moving out,’” he said. “It’s going to be a compromise, but I think the platform of being a state representative might help bring attention to that, and I think it’s something worth looking at.”

Ginsburg — who manages residential apartments in the Danbury area and has helped tenants obtain emergency rental and other types of assistance over the years — said he gets his passion to help people from his dad.

“My father had the biggest drug store in Danbury, and he always went out of his way to provide outstanding service and help customers,” he said. “That has inspired me to do that with my tenants and in my career.”

Ginsburg said keeping zoning regulations within the control of the towns would be another priority of his as a state representative.

“Each town is different, so I want to make sure they have the autonomy to determine their own zoning regulations because that affects the quality of life in a town,” he said.

Callahan said that is something he, too, feels strongly about.

“I want to make sure that control over zoning remains local, and I always vote that way — to protect our communities and our ability to handle our own zoning,” he said.

2022 election

Callahan said he believes he’s done a good job representing the 108th district and hopes voters re-elect him in November.

Seeking Person to be the Democratic Assistant/Deputy Registrar

The current Democratic Assistant/Deputy Registrar, Carol Muska, will be stepping down soon.  Anyone interested in this post or knows someone who may be, please email shermandems@gmail.com.

This Deputy position will be appointed by the Democratic Registrar.

Carol says, “It is a pleasant, nonpartisan environment working with the Republican Assistant/Deputy Registrar and both the Democrat and Republican Registrars.”

Assistant/Deputy Registrar’s duties vary depending on the time of year. December through March are quiet times and office hours are minimal, if at all. Generally, June through September are also quiet requiring few office hours, unless it is a year with voting event(s). Occasionally,  the Registrars may need office coverage in their absence for vacations or extra office work.
The regular Registrar of Voters’ office hours are on Thursdays, 10 am – 1 pm.
During the six weeks prior to the following voting events: primaries, elections, and referendums,  the Deputy would work the regular office hours.  During each day of the voting event, the Deputy with a team, would work the entire day and coordinate poll workers, test ballots, and set up for the vote.
Carol emphasizes, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to serve our community through this very important privilege of voting.  I have enjoyed my position immensely and would be happy to provide more information to anyone interested. Being part of the town’s voting process was an experience I’ll forever savor.”

Meet Sherman’s Board of Education Candidates

Town Tribune Ad Oct 28, 2021.

Kate Kelley Frey (D)
Kate Kelley Frey seeks a position on the Board of Education. Kate is an elementary school teacher with 33 years of experience in public education and this would be her first run at an elective office. She hopes “To volunteer my time and give back to a town that has supported and given so much to me personally, and to my family over many years.” She also said. “My expertise in curriculum design and best practices would fill a practical need currently existing on the Board of Education (BOE). Running for a seat on the BOE is a stroke of good fortune: to have the special abilities to give back and a strong sense of indebtedness to Sherman.”

Kristin Grasseler(R)
Kristin Grasseler has 20 years of experience in the relocation industry with expertise in customer service, employee management, home sale, global mobility, and executive-level support She has board experience with the Ostomy Awareness Foundation and the Greater Danbury Irish Cultural Foundation. Kristin says that she has made many wonderful friends in the community over the years and hopes to be able to serve and support the families of Sherman.
Her goals are to: inspire transparency and collaboration among the board and the community; ensure that children can thrive in a safe and inclusive environment, and encourage common sense and mindfulness as Sherman tackles the maintenance of The Sherman School building.

James Neunzig (D)
James Neunzig has served on the BOE for the past four years and was recently appointed Chair, lie now seeks a second term. The owner of J.P. Gifford Market. Giffords Catering, and JP Gifford Cafe. James says that “Having served [on] the BOE for the previous four years, I am eager to continue the momentum of that work.” He went on to say that “My style is to work in partnership with parents, other citizens. and town leaders to address the important issues [that are] meaningful to the Sherman community. Investing our tax dollars wisely towards the best school experience for not only the near-term but also for the future is essential to me.”

James Philipakos (R)
James Philipakos works in the banking industry as a mortgage originator and has served on several boards and committees, including the Regional YMCA’s 11 nance Committee and the Northem Fairfield County Association of Realtors (NFCAR).  James has also participated in many town efforts, such as the Senior Housing Commission and a separate committee set up to investigate senior tax incentives. He says that his goals for service on the BOE are very simple, “I will communicate with our community and town officials as best as I can; I will make decisions that I believe are in the best interest of the children, I will keep an open mind, and I will respect others.”

Matt Vogt (D)
Matt Vogt has served on the BOE for the previous two years and now seeks a full term. As a small business owner, he says that he will continue to bring “my experience in operations and budgeting, with an understanding of the balance needed between the financial requirements of operating the school district and the realities of its existence within the framework of such a small town.  A lifelong resident of Sherman with young children in the school. Matt says  “I also feel an acute responsibility to maintain this highly valuable center of our community for our town and for the future generations of Sherman School students to come.”

 

Support Kate Frey for Board of Education

 

From Town Tribune Oct 28, 2021. To the Editor:

I am writing this letter to encourage Sherman voters to support Kate Frey in the November 2 election.  Kate is running for the Board of Education and is a most qualified candidate having taught for 33 years in the public school system.  It is important to note that her professional work in curriculum and best practices in education will bring a much-needed perspective to the BOE in a time of transition.  Kate also believes in working collaboratively and respectfully to attain the best outcome for our Sherman students and community.  The needs of the students are Kate’s top priority.

I encourage you to support the Sherman School System by electing Kate Frey on November 2.

Dr. Francis Muska

Sherman

IN SUPPORT OF JAMES NEUNZIG

From Town Tribune Oct 28, 2021. To the Editor:
I have great admiration for those who volunteer their time to help run this town. Especially those who manage to work full time and still take the time to serve. I am a frequent patron of James’ J.P.Gilford Market and Catering Company and wholeheartedly support the owner James Neunzig for a second term on the BOE. Hospitality is one of the most difficult businesses, and to succeed, you have to think on your feet and deliver your best every minute of the day. That is the kind of experience our kids in Sherman deserve. Please join me and vote for James Neunzig on Nov. 2nd.

Stephen Fisher, Sherman

In Response to 10/21 Hudson et al on Attacks on James Neunzig’s Character

From Town Tribune Oct 28, 2021. To the Editor:
Last week several people took aim at James Neunzig. James has only been the chair for 3 months and yet has recently come under attack by a minority group in the Board of Education who did not get the new building they had hoped for.  The mentioned “coup” -like attempt was, in fact, a majority of the board voting down costly measures to the taxpayers. Unfortunately, the minority had hoped for a very expensive building project and was not fixing the problems that have been plaguing the school for years. I support James Neunzig’s approach to fixing the school without those costly measures.

Please vote for James Neunzig on Nov. 2 so we can keep moving forward in the right direction.
Julia Tisdal, Sherman

Re-elect James Neunzig to the Sherman Board of Education

From Town Tribune Oct 28, 2021. To the Editor: Sometimes I cannot help but worry for the future of our town. Volunteerism, a vital ingredient without which our little government cannot function, is waning. I wonder if we have become too aggressively critical of our leaders, most of whom are volunteers. The world is a tough place, and if we continue to blame the messenger anytime bad news needs to be delivered – I suspect we will continue seeing volunteerism decline in Sherman.

 

James Neunzig is running for another term on the Board of Education. A very intelligent, warm, detail-oriented individual, James has successfully led his retail/food service business through multiple recessions, and our current pandemic. Over the last 20 years he has mastered the delicate balancing act of providing excellent customer service, while maintaining a happy staff of employees. With considerable help from his wife Kara, James has additionally somehow managed to balance professional success, and raising three kind, sweet, and also very intelligent children.

 

James is NOT a politician. As a prime example: In concert with a team of experts and stakeholders, James has had to deliver some rather painful news to the Taxpayers in Sherman. Naturally, this letter cannot provide room for discussion around school facilities, or any other ongoing BoE issue. The point is that James refuses to pretend the situation will resolve itself – even if we choose to hide from it. Political damage simply does not factor into his process.

James brings the skill set, integrity, and passion that we need from our volunteers. Please join me in sending a big “Thank You” to him, and to all the others that serve our town. Through their sacrifice Sherman continues to be a most wonderful place to live.

Kenric Gubner

Sherman

Endorsing Ann Gerschefski for Sherman’s Board of Assessment Appeals

From Town Tribune Oct 28, 2021. To the Editor: Ann Gerschefski will be on the November 2nd ballot as a candidate for Board of Assessment Appeals in Sherman. Ann looks forward to representing all Sherman residents thoughtfully, objectively, and respectfully.

Ann’s 15 years as a Realtor have taught her that every real estate situation is unique, and every client is unique. Her solid educational background (Phillips Academy Andover and Barnard College) taught her to look at issues from every angle. Her combination of rational non-partisan thinking and client-centered service will be a great benefit to Sherman’s residents as the Board addresses questions of property valuation.

The motto of Ann’s alma mater Phillips Academy is “non sibi”, meaning “not for self”. As past president of New Fairfield/Sherman Animal Welfare, and as a current volunteer for FISH of Sherman, Ann looks forward to extending service to others by serving on Sherman’s Board of Assessment Appeals.

Please cast your vote for Ann Gerschefski on November 2nd.

Endorsing Jeffrey Ginsburg for Zoning Board of Appeals

From Town Tribune Oct 28, 2021. To the Editor:
Jeffrey Ginsburg has the right experience to be a valued addition to the board. He was trained and had practiced as a professional engineer. He has experience in real estate purchasing and a keen sense of fairness. I trust that he would consider every case before the board, objectively and thoroughly.
Please vote for Jeffrey Ginsburg for Zoning Board of Appeals.