Politics & Government

Anthony: Hamden is "at a Crossroads"

The town has a list of serious problems, Republican mayoral candidate Bob Anthony said, and desperately needs a change in leadership.

From the Hamden Republican Town Committee:

The Hamden Republican Town Committee unanimously nominated former Hamden firefighter Bob Anthony for mayor. 

"Bob Anthony brings a unique set of skills to this race that few if any prior candidates have had," said Republican Town Committee Chairman Ron Gambardella.  "He has had a long career with the town of Hamden and is extremely knowledgeable with regard to work rules and union contracts that would have avoided the lawsuits brought against the town in recent years. 

Find out what's happening in Hamdenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Bob's goal is to solve the town's financial debacle while addressing the needs and concerns of our citizens and employees," Gambardella said, noting that Anthony is running at a time when Hamden has seen its financial rating diminished and its pension fund nearing depletion.

"The pension is underfunded and is in serious jeopardy of running out of funds," Anthony said in his acceptance speech. "Health benefits due our current and retired employees are projected to grow at levels that cannot possibly be supported through higher and higher taxes. The town's infrastructure is crumbling. Construction projects go on endlessly. Fees are increasing for services that were once funded with our real estate tax. Education costs are out of control and rising faster than we can afford to pay. Lastly, business development is waning especially where brown fields prevent future expansion that can help ease out tax burden." 

Find out what's happening in Hamdenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Anthony concluded his remarks by saying, "Friends, we are at a crossroad. Do we continue to go in the same direction and expect different results? Or, will you follow me in setting a new course of optimism and prosperity that can only be achieved through real economic growth?" 

The crowd enthusiastically rose in unison in support of their candidate.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here