As a past member of Waterford’s Board of Finance, I quickly came to respect Baird Welch-Collins for his vision, courage and leadership in working for Waterford’s RTM. I strongly believe that we need a change in our state representation, and he is that change.

During his time in office, Welch-Collins has demonstrated strong leadership in policies and ideas that address future fiscal, educational and environmental challenges. He has worked to increase community participation in government, and he is unafraid to share his knowledge and reasoning for decision-making.

In 2016, Welch-Collins reached out to Rep. Kathleen McCarty and invited her to a public debate. She refused. If he again offers her a chance for debate, her refusal should be understood as a failure of leadership and transparency.

Our present representative has demonstrated an inability to create legislation that addresses our future needs. I believe that under her leadership, Waterford has and will suffer.

Mr. Welch-Collins is a two-term RTM member and served on our Long-Range Fiscal Planning Committee as well as Treasurer for our Erosion Control Board. He has won bipartisan respect for his ability to work with members of all political parties with insight and personal integrity.

Vote Welch-Collins for State Representative / District 38.

Joseph M. Filippetti

Waterford