The Darien library created a blog for community participation. In operation since October 2005, the posts track the issues and events that are of interest to Darien residents. The town meetings are also broadcast on tv, making Darien one of the more open government towns. But when it comes to actual Darien political commentary, you have to check out The Federalist, a blogger who periodically posts on the local political scene. Check out this testy exchange following speculation on who will run for First Selectmen in Darien, in addition to much praise for current First Selectman Evonne Klein. Some highlights:
With 2007 just around the corner one can’t help but think of the race for First Selectman. While we are still months away from the first Tuesday in November, it’s always fun to make some New Years speculations. One can only assume that the RTC will work hard to take the top spot back for the first time in four years. Many have speculated that the RTC decision to have Paul Hendrickson replace Kevin Newman on the BOS was a move to prepare him for a run at the top spot in ‘07. Mr. Hendrickson’s resume is very impressive, but his performance on the Board of Selectmen hasn’t been much to write home about. Another Republican name that comes to mind is Peter Hovell. While thefederalist hasn’t heard anything out of Mr. Hovell’s mouth about running, it wouldn’t be too suprising to see the streets of Darien peppered with “Elect Hovell” signs next Fall. However, after being swiftly (and suprisingly) booted out of office one can’t help but question Mr. Hovell’s political capital. Does he have enough support around town to return to Town Hall? Only time will tell…..
Turfgrrl salutes both efforts and encourages more citizens to engage in any form of open government.
When you say that Klein has been “delivering along the way” what exactly do you mean?
There are 5 Selectmen.
You can distinguish the failings of Hendrickson and Young, can you let us/me know how, as a regular selectman, Klein gives them the opportunity to distingusih themselves? And what has she done, individually, to garner your praise.
It’s obvious that you are a Democrat, but Im hoping you can lend some objectivity, rather than the usual generic praise, with no specifics, other than things from 2004, that is handed out to Klein.
Saturday, 30 December, 2006
He objected strongly to the words of Gwynn Grimes when it applied to Evonne Klein, but has not shown any similar outrage when Walter Casey uses repulsive references to Republican Selectmen.
If you think that type of behavior is wrong—then it should be wrong when it applies to both parties.
He is welcome to choose that stance. But in a town as heavily Republican as Darien is, I think he may not be that smart to simply say I will only act to defend principles when they apply to my political party.
Sunday, 31 December, 2006