Republican Candidates' Comments at the LWV Debate

Weston Republicans submitted closing comments of the party's Planning & Zoning Commission candidates Britta Lerner (incumbent), James Carlon and Dr. Tom Failla and incumbent Board of Finance member Patty Kopas at the League of Women Voters debate. See the comments below.

Patty Kopas

Thank you to the League for hosting this evening’s debate.

I believe Weston is a place of certainty. Its citizenry place their trust in their Town government. 

The approach of the Board of Finance is to take a long term view; it is challenging to take the long view instead of finding a quick fix. 

I believe that during my tenure on the Board of Finance I have demonstrated responsible and prudent financial decision making. 

Leadership takes courage and perseverance.  Good decisions aren’t always popular, but they should be right for the community. I don’t mind asking the tough questions or being the lone vote. What is best for all of Weston?

I believe the true measure of success during my tenure is that 20 years from now, the citizens and members of the Board of Finance will look back and say we did a good responsible job of keeping Weston unique.

I love this town. We have lived here for 27 years, and I am proud to serve on the Finance Board. I respectfully ask for your support again to keep the leadership intact and continue to shape the future of our wonderful home.

Thank you

Britta Lerner

First I’d like to thank the League and Ms. Rabinow.

I was recently asked if I thought small towns like Weston are a dying breed.  I replied absolutely not.

A recent study from the Center of Rural Affairs reported that 90% of those polled said that small town living is worth fighting for.

Weston’s small town numbers make us flexible, adaptable, independent and at the same time mutually supportive.

 We are the “mini cooper” to other town’s SUVs.  We are efficient. 

That efficiency ties directly to the work done on Weston’s Planning and Zoning Commission.  P and Z  balances that tightrope walk of commercial, open, and residential space that keeps our small town prosperous even in the toughest of economic times.

I bring dedication and experience to the P and Z team and with your support on November 5th, I hope to continue to serve on this remarkable Commission.  Thank you.

Jim Carlon

My wife and I moved to Weston in 2001.  We were drawn here because of its natural beauty, and open space.  We are raising our two sons in Weston.  We love our Town.

I have been practicing law as a real estate attorney for the past 14 years, and I have been privileged to serve our Town on the Planning and Zoning Commission.

I ask my friends, neighbors and fellow Westonites for their support in this election.

Dr. Tom Failla

Thank you League and thank you all for being here.  You are the joy of my life because care for and service to others guides my 25 years as a Weston volunteer.  I really enjoy working with you all.

You are intelligent and sharing people and I have learned from each and all of you in my many years in public service.

As a family man, neighbor, coach, scout leader, commission member, I bring thoughtful, patient and fair leadership to issues that affect us all.  I also frankly have received permission from my dear, loving wife Kathy to continue serving in town government.  With your support, I look forward to continuing contributing to and learning from our community.