New leadership for Old Lyme

It wasn't quite cataclysmic, but six weeks ago when the Old Lyme Zoning Commission eliminated references to seasonal properties in its regulations, opening the door to year-round occupancy in its waterfront communities, it signalled a momentous change for the town.

After years of litigation aimed at blocking the conversion of seasonal properties for winter use, the town conceded it couldn't win the fight and gave in. It was the correct decision, but didn't erase all the scars left from the years of battling. That is going to take time, and the right kind of leadership.

For too long Old Lyme residents have described themselves as "town" or "beach" people. That's got to end. Property owners, regardless of where they reside, should all have a seat at the town's table.

Ending past divisiveness would be a priority for Democrat Bonnie Reemsnyder, who is challenging seven-term incumbent Republican First Selectman Timothy Griswold. A member of the Board of Selectmen for eight years, she touts herself as the best candidate to forge improved relationships with the town's beach communities, school district, and the neighboring town of Lyme.

Mr. Griswold disagrees, arguing that his experience and understanding of the issues make him the superior candidate, and warrant his re-election to an eighth term.

Both Mr. Griswold and Ms. Reemsnyder recognize the importance of protecting the town's water supply, which they say could be jeopardized if the beach neighborhoods opt for sewers and send precious groundwater out of town as wastewater. And both acknowledge that even in a more affluent community like Old Lyme, people have been hurt by the poor economy and want to keep their taxes down while maintaining what services they do have.

While the candidates do agree on some issues, it's their approach to town management that sets them part.

In that regard, Ms. Reemsnyder is the superior candidate. She is a practiced listener, willing to hear both sides of an issue before speaking her mind. And she has a reputation for providing excellent constituent service, quickly responding to residents' calls or needs.

If elected, she proposes making better use of existing technology, including the addition of virtual town meetings, so even those part-time residents who live out-of-town off-season, can participate in town meetings.

The director of sales and marketing at a Branford manufacturing company, this is her fourth attempt to oust Mr. Griswold from his job, the last time in 2007, when The Day endorsed her candidacy. We're doing it again. Ms. Reemsnyder has the ability to bring about the kind of change that's needed in Old Lyme. She will reach out to everyone in town and work for the betterment of the community. Bonnie Reemsnyder is the best choice for first selectman in Old Lyme.