The Final Debate: Connecticut Post Write-Up

EASTON — Candidates for local office made a stop on the campaign trail Tuesday night to outline their platforms and explain their visions.

The debate at the Helen Keller Middle School media center came exactly one week from Election Day. By this time next week, First Selectman William Kupinse should know who is replacing him as the Republican steps down after 10 years at the helm.

It is the first four-way race anyone can remember, and one where the ranks of the unaffiliated are key because there are 2,225 unaffiliated voters, compared to 1,056 Democrats and 1,699 Republicans.

"Next week there will be someone new elected," Kupinse said Monday, before the event. He sat in the audience of 75 people Tuesday.

Rosy was the color of Easton's future as painted by Republican Tom Herrmann, Democrat Elaine Spicer, Real Choice Party candidate Lee Hanson and unaffiliated candidate Paul Skrtich.

"If we do all the things you all have said tonight, we'll have to change the name from Easton to Eden," quipped Dave Sylvestro, moderator of the event for the Citizens for Easton, the town-based action group involved in preservation of natural and agricultural resources.

Several of the candidates talked about how Kupinse has described Easton as the jewel of Fairfield County, and how they would amplify on that statement.

"Our town would be a shining example of people who are stewards of the land that has been entrusted to us," said Hanson.

It is a town where people work hard to live, said Herrmann, showing "we need to be frugal with our tax dollars."

Skrtich promised a revision in the way taxes are spent. "I believe in user fees. Taxes should only cover emergency services and public works. That's it," Skrtich said of his vision for reducing the mill rate.

Time on task is what Spicer offered, reiterating her vow to be a full-time first selectman. Kupinse has worked as an attorney while holding the office. "I will make Easton my priority," Spicer said.

The debate was the last in a series of head-on meetings before Election Day. Those participating included Republican Scott Centrella for Board of Selectmen; Democrat Robert Lessler for Board of Selectmen and Real Choice Party candidate Peter Graupner for Board of Selectmen.

In addition, Board of Finance candidates in attendance included Andrew Kachele, Salvatore Tartaglione, Claire Gold and Wiley Mullins.

Tony Spinelli, who covers Monroe and Easton, can be reached at 330-6361.