By John Mauer
On Thursday, the Kent Republican Town Committee discussed Rob Simmons, the candidate most likely to replace ill favored Senator Chris Dodd. Simmons had spoken at a local breakfast for the 30th Senatorial District which was attended by some Kent Republicans. Jim Perkins, a local resident, described Simmons as animated and well prepared to take on Senatorial duties; Simmons has been a U.S. Representative from the 2nd District in Connecticut.
Rob Simmons has spent over 40 years in public service. He represented Connecticut’s 2nd Congressional District in Congress from 2001 to 2007. In 2007, he was appointed Business Advocate for the State of Connecticut by Governor M. Jodi Rell.
Previously, Rob served in the Connecticut General Assembly for ten years representing the 43rd District which includes the towns of Stonington and North Stonington, and the villages of Mystic, Old Mystic and Pawcatuck.
In Congress Rob served on the Armed Services, Transportation and Homeland Security Committees. Rep. Simmons also served as the chairman of the Homeland Security Intelligence, Information Sharing, and Terrorism Risk Assessment subcommittee and as Chairman of the Veterans’ Health Subcommittee.
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The Committee also discussed local issues. Selectman Vince LaFontan spoke about the cost of the sewer repair, and the possibility of the Town sharing some of the expense. He suggested that the sharing could be split between the Sewer Commission capital fund, the sewer users and the Town by thirds with the Town’s contribution coming from capital over 5 years.
Jim Palmer, a local resident, noted that there is now a petition is being circulated to bring back the Resident State Trooper program. He said current copies can be found at the IGA and the Fife & Drum. Karen Casey said, “I think it was a good idea to take a break and change the environment.”
The Republican nominees for First Selectman and Selectman have been decided and will be announced shortly.