In two weeks, Salem voters will make a very important choice. First Selectman Kevin Lyden, who has very capably served our community for over a decade, is not seeking reelection. Thus, we must decide who our next First Selectman will be. I strongly believe that our best choice is Hugh McKenney.

For two decades Hugh and his late wife, Robyn, devoted their talents and considerable time to public service in Salem. Robyn for several years chaired Salem’s Board of Education and Hugh was chairman of our Planning and Zoning Commission. Robyn and I served together on the Board of Selectmen and Hugh, since retiring from his nuclear engineering responsibilities at the Millstone complex, now has served on this same board for the last four years. Locally, he has devoted more time to many of the Lions Club Service projects. Regionally, he represents Salem on the Advisory Board of the Southeastern Connecticut Water Authority and contributes energy and time to Care and Share of East Lyme.

Bright, personable, committed and caring, I am certain that Hugh would serve Salem fairly, intelligently, and competently as our next key administrator. I urge every Salem voter to support him.

Jim Fogarty

Salem