I wholeheartedly support Dan Cunningham’s re-election for First Selectman of East Lyme.

For example, when tenants from Windward Village asked forhelp with unexpectedly high rent increase, Dan, along with the Board of Selectmen, passed an ordinance in less than two months forming a Fair Rent Commission to resolve disputes over rent increases.

Dan also supported the Board of Education when they requested funding for a new artificial turf field at the high school and a new roof for Niantic Center School.

Both projects are now slated to be completed in the upcoming year.

Dan also formed the Youth, Family and Human Services Department whenhe heard of the need for more mental health services in town. This new department provides a host of services from support groups for grandparents, substance abuse education, and assistance accessing food and fuel banks.

Dan Cunningham is not only attentive to the needs of our town, but he is also forward-thinking.

In response to the hurricanes and terrible storms which ravage our shoreline, Dan formed the Coastal Resiliency Fund for projects such as the repair of the collapsed seawall at McCook Point Park.

Also, Dan supported the formation of the Capital Improvement Committee which reviews all large town projects, set up a schedule for projects to be completed and funds to be expended to save costs.

I have worked side-by-side with Dan on the Board of Selectmen for the past four years; the last two as his Deputy First Selectman. He fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie and collaboration regardless of party affiliation. This, in turn, encourages frank discussion and members are not reluctant to voice a dissenting opinion. This is why East Lyme needs Dan for another four years.