To the Editor:
I recently had the opportunity to meet and listen to an outstanding candidate for the CT legislature in the 32nd Senate District – Matt Knickerbocker. Matt is not only energized and articulate but also has decades of experience at the local level. As Bethel’s First Selectman for 13 years, and before that, a decade on the Board of Education (seven as chairman), Matt balanced budgets, worked across party lines, and protected the services on which residents depend. As Town Treasurer and as Wilton’s first Town Administrator, Matt has seen how Connecticut’s towns operate from the inside. He knows how Hartford’s decisions land in our towns.
Matt’s experience and background have shaped his priorities. He served as Vice President of Sales Planning, Field Sales, and Marketing at a major corporation and holds a graduate degree in Public Administration.
Matt will fight for fair, reliable funding for our public schools. Every child deserves a sound education regardless of ZIP code, and local taxpayers shouldn’t be left filling gaps the state should cover. He will also work to end costly unfunded mandates. When Hartford passes requirements without paying for them, towns have little choice but to raise property taxes. Matt will push to ensure municipalities don’t face higher costs for decisions made in Hartford.
Also, Matt Knickerbocker will press for full reimbursement of excess special education costs. Students with special needs deserve consistent, fully supported services, and districts shouldn’t have to cut other programs or strain local budgets to provide them.
Matt listens, does his homework, and shows up. His record in Bethel and Wilton shows he can turn good intentions into results.
I urge voters to learn more about Matt Knickerbocker and join me in voting for him early, beginning October 19th, or in person on November 3rd.
– Barbara Mechler
Southbury, CT
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