The Future Of Milford's Independent Party

Since Peter Spalthoff wrote his note that appeared on this blog and yet again in the Milford Mirror, several letters, comments and notes arrived to my office regarding the Independent Party.

Some important things must be noted about the Independent Party if one is truly to understand how it will develop. The most important of these is, of course, the willingness of the general public to accept something new.

The Democratic and Republican parties have been at it for over 100 years, Independents are the "new kids on the block" and I believe that in order for us to be successfull we need to attract true talent with a message that resonates with the people of our community.

Independents, like all parties are comprised of individuals, and those individuals must be reckoned with regardless of any partisan label. The sooner we start looking at people and not parties, the sooner we will get quality leadership in our community.

There is too much reliance placed on a political party, and lets be honest, there are Democrats and Republicans in our town that share and embrace a true love and commitment to our quality of life. Forever shall it be on the voters backs to know who they are voting for. For example, know where your candidate/s stand on taxes, education, emergency services, and regulations.

Tyrants rise to power because of the myopic vision of the voters whose vote is solely based on the propaganda that is initiated by the candidates themselves. To put this simply, if I was running for office, and I had lots of money, I would spend it trying to make you believe that you can feel comfortable voting for me.

Doing things, like playing golf at your club, visiting every public venue, speaking charming and complimentary things about you, our community, and of course duping you to believe that I (as a candidate) am responsible for everything good and nothing bad.

Lets face it everyone knows that politicians lie, because if they told the truth the nasty little reality about how things get done would not be contained to a back room or remain buried in the legalese of our massive budgets. Instead, our tax bills would be reasonable, our kids education would be first class, and our infrastructure would be taken care of.

Our leaders are the ones whom we entrust to spend our tax money, Americans pay lots of tax, they also pay lots of interest, penalties and fees to the government for misbehaving. These taxes in their myriad is an emblem of disgrace induced on every person in Milford. This is not to suggest I am against taxes, but more to the fact that I am against the Government becoming our local economy and making a punitive system lucrative.

Voting for a candidate should be simple, and many who wish to make their entry into politics do so for a variety of reasons. Most often because they have the time to make the commitment, and they believe that they can make a change in the quality of life or in the outcome of the community in which we live.

All politics I believe are local, and choice is a wonderful thing. However, some have argued that in a three party system an elected minority with as little as 1/3 of the vote can induce policies that go against the very fabric of Milford.

This is in fact a real possibility, but thus far in both three way races in Milford wins were by a substantial majority. Three way races also involve more voters in politics, and when people get involved we get better government.

The Independent Party is important today, forecasters like Gerald Celiente have already predicted that by 2012 America will have a new and strong third party. Thus far this year Libertarian Republican Peter Schiff honored Milford with his Old Gate Lane HQ.

Even if the pundits and critics succeed in demoralizing and crushing a third party movement, the problem will linger. People yearn to be free, and they will advance their views of liberty and justice with or without the support of the major parties.

Schiff is a classic example of a true Libertarian in a Republican dominated domain. Many of his supporters are expected to switch parties, join RTC's and do whatever they must to give Schiff the advancement they so desperately want.

While the cards may be stacked against Independent Republicans like Peter Schiff, the expected $2,000,000.00 he will spend will further seed the Independent third party movement.

Thus far in Milford the numbers have gone from 10% in 2008, to 11.5% in 2009 and are expected to grow again to 13.5% in 2010. By 2012, and if Celiente is correct Independents should attain 25%-30% of the electorate making them America's first formidable third party. This will be the American epiphany, and the beginning of the end of the mega duopoly unaffectinately known as the "Republicrats."

Not for an instance do I believe it is time to give up, not so long as our numbers are continuing to improve and people are solidly "waking up." We just need to work harder, tell the truth, be honest, and not go away.

A New Years Message From Peter Spalthoff

With the New Year now upon us I wanted to send a personal “Thank You” to those individuals who supported me during my run for Mayor this past November in Milford. And while the results were not what I had hoped for, the support that I did receive from many of Milford’s voters was very heart warming and appreciative.

I ran as an Independent person who thought that the City could have used a different perspective on the direction that it was moving and in particular the way that it was being managed and while we ran what I thought was a clean and issue oriented campaign, the voters of Milford spoke and clearly re-elected Mayor Richetelli to another term.

The issues that I addressed were about taxes, our infrastructure and the quality of life that we have and what I thought needed to be done to affect changes in a positive manner. I spoke of the Democrats & Republicans claim to a tax decrease in 2009 and how it would all be given back in our 2010 taxes. I spoke about the inefficiencies in our employee pension accounts and questioned why we were not putting items out to bid on a competitive basis as we should that could save the City thousands of dollars in the short and long run. And I noted that I did not believe enough was being done for our small business in Milford to attract and keep them here.

Well the dust as I said has settled and we will have another term with Mayor Richetelli at the helm I wish him the best. I certainly will be as many of our citizens are very interested in this year’s budget and I will certainly be addressing the issues I brought up during the campaign in the future.

While the Independent Party did not generate the attention and support that I had hoped it would, before we decide to fold up tent I would love to hear from the community to see if it and the people that supported it should stay the course and be yet another voice in this wonderful City we call home.

Peter L. Spalthoff

A Post Endorsement Letter From Peter

Dear Milford neighbors,

With Election Day just around the corner on Tuesday November 3rd, I want to remind you of just 2 things.

1. I ask for your vote
My objective in contesting this Mayoral election is to give you the choice to vote for someone who will represent your interests instead of representing the bias of a political party.

As an Independent, I can and will make decisions based on what’s best for Milford and for you.
I have a proven background in leadership and management, meaning I can effect the necessary changes and make decisions based on what is best for our city and its residents.
As your Mayor my aims are:

• Fiscal responsibility
• Educating our children
• Citizen safety
• Business development
• Historical preservation
• Environmental advancement
• Infrastructure improvement

In summary, my principal goal is the betterment of our wonderful city.

I pledge to you that during my term as Mayor, I will always put PEOPLE BEFORE POLITICS. I respectfully ask for your vote on November 3rd to enable me to serve you and serve Milford.


2. Vote!
Why is it so important to vote?

1. VOTING AFFECTS YOU. This election is solely about Milford. The candidate who wins will directly impact YOUR life and YOUR community.
2. VOTING IS YOUR VOICE. Many people complain about the current Mayor and Board of Aldermen, with their irresponsible behaviour and decisions. Well, this is your ONLY chance to do something about it.
3. VOTING IS A RIGHT. Vote because you can. Voting is a ‘right’ which is actually a ‘privilege’ when compared to many places around our globe.

In closing, I request that you consider voting for me, Peter SPALTHOFF, so I can work at making Milford the best city in Connecticut to live, work and raise a family.


Faithfully,
Peter SPALTHOFF

Spalthoff, Milford's Best Candidate For Mayor

Traditionally I have never really been in the practice of endorsing any candidates, but this year with so many great contenders I thought adding my personal opinion might benefit many of you out there who have not had time to do the research or watch the debate videos.

Hard as it is to believe the election is only a few days away, and soon thousands of Milfordites will be storming in the voting booths and voting for their candidates. To help ease the anxiety of looking at a voter card with a bunch of faceless names, I am going to give you my thoughts on each of the candidates.

Before I begin it is important for me to give you my disclaimer, currently I am on the ballot in the First district as the Independent candidate for the board of education. However, my views and opinions are based solely on my own research and personal attendance of the mayoral debates, personally speaking with every candidate, and reading what local newspapers represented about each of them.

My assessment is as Follows:

Genevieve Salvatore: She is a relatively new citizen here in Milford, and many people do not yet really know her very well. Genevieve serves on the Economic Development Commission and practices law here in town.

Genevieve won an overwhelming vote from her party over longtime resident Tim Chaucer and received the endorsement from our U.S. Representative Rosa Delauro. Salvatore was also recently endorsed by the New Haven Reigister over Incumbent Mayor Jim Richetelli.

Her views are very favorable toward a local green economy, and has pledged a policy of zero based budgeting to keep taxes affordable on our cities struggling people. These two views are also complimented by Spalthoff.

Problems I personally have with Ms. Salvatore is her newcomer status, but more grave than that is her friendship with Rosa Delauro and Chris Dodd. In the coming years Milford and the state of Connecticut are expected to have a challenging relationship with a failing federal government. Dodd was recently ostracized over his banking relationships and Delauro has been pushing a bill "The Food Modernization and Safety Act" that would put all our local farms under Corporate and Federal control.

The Democratic Party, has also been involved in the negative and misleading campaign that borders on the actions of an impish spectacle. Their theatrical engagement of the Republicans has not sat well with many people who are concerned about the issues in town.

For these reasons, and even though I think Genevieve is a stellar person, I will always have some discomfort over her parties negative influence, in tandem with her ability to challenge Federal Democratic leaders, especially in a crisis situation.

Jim Richetelli: Last Election I supported Richetelli and had a sign of his on my lawn. He has been our mayor for many terms, and in the past has done a great job in leading our city. Personally I would like to thank him and acknowledge up front all of the great work he has done. However, we vote in the present and we look to the future. The very fact that Jim lost the endorsement of the Register, a paper that endorsed him so many times before was a testament as to the political climate that exists today.

This year Jim has been called out time again over Taxes, educational cuts, historical preservation, business audits, absenteeism, and contract negotiations. Two of the three debates I have been to (in my opinion) have not been very favorable for Richetelli. (You are free to view them on this site just refer to the archives.)

The latest challenge our Mayor experienced was the Democrats and the Republicans engagement of an intensely negative campaign whereby voters are being deliberately confused and misinformed with negative information about their opponents.

Voters I believe have grown tired of this practice and just want to hear the issues and the facts. Jim being the incumbent has a terrific re-election advantage this year, but I personally believe that advantage has been diminished.

Tim Chaucer:Tim is a lifelong resident of Milford, he worked tirelessly trying to support and protect our cities historic properties and open space. Chaucer has been very critical of the destruction of the Cadley House, and the development of the property next to the Milford Library.

Personally I have spoke with Tim and found him to be a sincere person, however, in my opinion, he has a narrow view of interests in our town. Tim is also running as an "Unaffiliated" candidate since he lost the support of his primary political party to Genevieve Salvatore.

Tim took the loss in my view too easily, early on he struggled with the idea of a primary and then opted out instead of standing by his convictions that he was treated unfairly by his party.

Personally I found Chaucer to be a great person with much to offer Milford and even though I think he is the weakest candidate I sincerely hope that he stays involved and continues to fight along with us for what he believes in.

His views on open land purchasing, historic preservation and city planning are supported by all candidates across the board and we will need his expertise on future committees and at council meetings, should he not prevail.

Chaucer can certainly be a unifying force with his broad knowledge on keeping Milford's growth in harmony with our history. Personally I would look forward to Tim's continued involvement in those areas as his message was well received and he certainly proved himself as an asset to our city.

Peter Spalthoff: Peter is my personal favorite, not because he is an Independent but because of his selfless nature, investment in our community, and financial background in understanding debt, contracts, loans and financial instruments.

Of all the candidates in the running Peter has run a very ethical and honest campaign. Peter has pledged transparency in government, and adopted a policy that puts "people first." Every week new letters arrive to our local newspapers in support of Peter. His candidacy as an Independent has been larger than any that I remember in recent memory.

Peter also represents a realistic new choice for the growing number of people in town who have become despondent with the two party system. Peter's list of endorsements is also impressive, and he is the only mayor in CT to receive the official endorsement of the state Independent Party and the Independent American Party.

Peter's skills will be needed in the coming years especially with the 110 Million in financing that will be needed for our school improvements. Peter is also very open minded and works well with others. His most recent post in a political party was the chairman of the Republican Town Committee, but due to his own disappointment with the Republican party decided to reinvigorate the ranks of the Independents here in Milford.

When Peter Made his campaign announcement on the green early this year, he invoked the spirit of the late Charles Iovino. Iovino was the only Independent mayoral candidate in Connecticut's history to win a Mayoral election as a write in candidate.

Your vote this election will count more than before, and I personally hope you will lend that support to Peter Spalthoff My choice for this years Mayor.

Rocco J. Frank Jr.
Milford Daily Blog Contributor

Mayoral Hopefuls Debate Local Environmental Issues

The (Environmental Concerns Coalition) ECC Debate kicked off as scheduled at 6:P.M. all candidates in the running were present and questions were prepared in advance by the ECC moderator.

Candidates had 2 minutes to answer each question, and a rebuttal of their opponents of one Minute. This was the protocol for the first few questions, the next four questions were drawn randomly from a hat and were pre-written by the ECC and selected by each candidate. The audience was also permitted to openly ask questions at the end of the debate.

Of the initial questions asked, the issue of purchasing open land was agreed upon as a good idea by all candidates. The next question regarding Milford's deplorable record on Recycling sparked the most debate.

While the question formulated by the ECC corresponded with the 6% figure as reported in the CT Post Jim Richetelly took issue with the numbers as inaccurate. Richetelly alledged that the number was "under-reported... an error" and held up a copy of the DEP report that he claimed indicated Milford was recycling 12% of its renewable waste not 6%. Richetelli said that Milford is not "last in the state, but doing much better than people believed."

One public question came in regarding the funds to purchase open space, Richetelli exhausted nearly all the money in the open space fund in his latest Naugatuck land deal purchase. The issue of how to pay for this was best addressed by Peter Spalthoff who indicated he would make it a "budget item," and purchase land as part of the routine operations of the town. There was little disagreement to this, since all the candidates agreed that purchasing open space saves Miford's taxpayers money.

There was also debate on adding a paid commissioner to go out and manage the land purchases. Tim Chaucer said that the best candidate for this job would be an "outdoor enthusiast who really knows the town and its land very well."

Each candidate Praised, and addressed, the Clean Energy Roadmap approved by the Board of Aldermen last month. The plan lays out steps the city should take to become environmentally sound. The Roadmap was authored by a community task force and is a step by step plan for city officials to follow.

When it came time for the audience to ask questions, the first question was regarding public transportation. All candidates vowed to improve public transportation and do their part to make certain Milford has more bus stops and convenient locations to get people to and from their local destinations.

The next question from the audience got interesting because I do not think the moderator expected an off topic attack of Richetelli. The man who asked the question specifically addressed it to Jim. He started by saying he made several unanswered telephone calls to Jim, then followed up with more unanswered e-mails. Than after contacting his aide was able to get to talk to him.

Expressing disgust over his experience, he then charged that he did not get the tax decrease that Jim advertised in his "mail piece" that he held up to the audience. He said "I am an engineer, and I am very good with numbers. I looked at my old bill and compared it to my new one... where is my savings!" The moderator told the gentleman that this was an environmental forum not to get "off topic." she said that perhaps "the candidates could answer those types of questions after the debate."

The candidates nonetheless did answer the gentleman's question, and Richetelli stood up and told the gentleman "everyone in Milford received a 2.6% tax decrease plain and simple." Geneveve Salvatore reminded the man that the tax decrease was courtesy of the Democratic led Board of Alderman and that Richetelli's rejected budged actually would have raised his taxes.

The event lasted over an hour, and all the Candidates for Mayor remained long after the meeting and respectfully spoke to the public. However it is important to note, that what is mentioned above are just some notable highlights. MGAT Channel 79 on Cablevision did videotape the event and it will be made available to the public in its entirety in the next week or so and I recommend we all watch it. The more informed you are the better choice you will make come election day.

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Video Per Commenters Request
Double Click Video if Cropped
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Vince Ross Calls Republican Letter "Amazing Fiction"

Unfortunately, it appears that Genevieve Salvatore, mayoral candidate and leader of the Milford Democrats, has concluded that Democrats can't win without personal attacks on Mayor Richetelli.

Mayor Richetelli has called on everyone, regardless of political party, to come together. He's said local government shouldn't be about partisan politics, it should be about people serving our community and about neighbors joining together to ensure that government works effectively to keep Milford a great place to live.

On November 3rd, voters are going to have a clear choice between Mayor Richetelli's vision for Milford and Salvatore's brand of attack politics.

Tom Jagodzinski
203-876-2749
Paid for by the Milford Republican Town Committee

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I refer to the above piece of creative writing and amazing fiction.

Isn’t it nice that the Mayor and the RTC Chairman now want local politics to be about ‘serving our community’, ‘neighbors’ and not ‘partisan politics’?

Some 9 months ago when Peter Spalthoff first voiced these same words as the underlying principles of the Milford Independent Party, both the Republicans and the Democrats laughed from their high-horse saying that these were not even worthy of being the basis of a party.

They derided these principles, stating that they were just jargon. They dismissed the foundation of who Peter Spalthoff is, his love for Milford, and the fact that he wants to stamp out partisan politics so that Milford is the focal point of every decision made. Yet now they use his very script and hypocritically do not even acknowledge Peter.

Back to what you know best, hey Tom? Partisan politics, cheap tactics and mimicry.

The major parties are so barren of any true concern for Milford that they even resort to copying Peter Spalthoff’s genuine passion, yet try to ignore his presence since they know he is the only candidate that has and always will put Milford first.

“Neighbors”… what an unusual word to be coming from the Republicans. This is the party that:

-dismisses Peter Spalthoff but uses his words and his ideas;

-Publicly and privately they butchered loyal Milfordite and respected Republican Tom Beirne for suggesting that Richetelli should improve his performance;

-Resorts to defamatory name-calling the members of an opposing party for telling the truth about Richetelli’s sizeable pension payout;

-Has rubbished the reputation of State Representative Barbara Lambert and even had a fundraiser with the sole intention of ridiculing her;

-ALWAYS vote along party lines, even if it means approving a salary increase for the Mayor: Knowing all the while that at the same time school employees could be fired and the Mayor is negotiating union wage freezes;

-Has without proof, ruthlessly questioned the moral virtues of the Democratic mayoral candidate.

“Neighbors” … how novel for Tom and Jim to use that term. Just for their edification:

“Neighbor - a person who shows kindliness or helpfulness toward his or her fellow humans.”

Maybe Tom and Jim were thinking of another word to describe themselves:

“Hypocrite - a person who feigns some desirable or publicly approved attitude, esp. one whose private life, opinions, or statements belie his or her public statements.”

The major parties should stick to what they know best - their self-interest - and let Peter Spalthoff be voted in as Milford Mayor so he can govern this city the way it should and must be governed. He is the only mayoral candidate that has constantly, consistently and honestly put the people of Milford first and foremost.

Vote Spalthoff and keep these undesirable ‘neighbors’ out of our local politics.

Vincent Ross
Milford

Democrats Demonize Richetelli's Addiction Issues

All one has to do is look at the barrage of articles today at the Connecticut Post and you will read a sad tale of Democratic charges of Mayoral accusations, insinuations, and claims of dereliction of duty.

Richard Smith the Democratic Party Chairman has made Richetelli's fight with addiction a matter of partisan politics. Smith alleged that had our Mayor not been preoccupied with his addiction issues the city of Milford would have qualified for more stimulus money.

Democrats allege that Compared to other towns who were on the ball Milford got less stimulus benefits. Freedom of information requests are reeling in by the Democrats, and the Republicans said they intend to comply, however the documentation requested is voluminous and may not be available until after the election.

The Republicans also Responded with THIS press release claiming that the democrats have it all wrong, that they were the ones who declined the funding to Eisenhower Park because the money came from U.S. Sen. Lieberman whom the Milford Democrats are angry with. Richetelli charged that Lieberman's betrayal of Lamont was the main reason why they declined funds for Eisenhower park.

The Democrats however were not persuaded by Richetelli's remarks and continued to insist that his addiction to an "un-named" prescription drug and his flight to a Maryland rehab is the real cause of his lack of effectiveness in delivering the Federal funds.

With all these heated exchanges in play, Tim Chaucer the Petitioning Candidate for Mayor jumped into the Melee and charged that Richetelli was "sleeping at the wheel" in (THIS article) when he allowed a developer to purchase the space next to the library. Chaucer said that that space could have been 22 now needed parking spaces for the library and not purchasing the land was a mistake. He claimed Richetelli was not interested or involved in keeping that lot.

Richetelli has been under a steady attack since his first Debate where he was accused of contributing to the destruction of the Cadley House, allowing complacency in the Building Department, falsely taking credit for this years tax decrease, and not supporting Jonathan Law's educational infrastructure.

Much to Peter Spalthoff's credit, he did not take sides, or jump into the partisan character thrashing from both Republicans and Democrats. Spalthoff instead focused on the issues affecting our community and gave his opinion as if he were the mayor at the time.

The Democrats have now reached a new low by engaging in what may be perceived as an intensely negative campaign making Richetelli's drug problem the focal point of their press releases. Truly a sad way to run an election, perhaps it would be best if all candidates just focus on the issues and refrain from personal attacks.

Milford Mayoral Debates Draw Unusually Large Crowd

For nearly 30 years the Plymouth Men's Club has been hosting the towns Mayoral Debates, and the debate moderator said that this years debate was among the largest in Recent memory.

The debate also had four candidates, Tim Chaucer, Genevieve Salvatore, Jim Richetelli, and Peter Spalthoff. Each candidate arrived with their own contingent of family members and campaign supporters adding to the unusually high number of attendees.

The event moderator had the local Boy Scouts hand out index cards and pencils, the audience wrote their questions on the index cards and submitted them to the moderator. The moderator grouped the questions together and asked the candidates the most popular ones.

One such question was, historic preservation and the destruction of the Cadley House. Richetelli received the most amount of fire on this question as all three candidates were remarkably upset with the demolition of that property. Richetelli repeated what he always has, that the property was beyond preservation but added that he "regretted" they way it happened and in hindsight would have involved Milford's Historical Preservation Committee.

The Building department and the Controversial Kimball Report was also a topic of discussion. Peter Spalthoff who is currently putting an addition on his 26 Broad Street property said there are many great employees in the building department and what they need is the proper leadership, technology, and support to get the job done correctly. He opined that spending $40,000.00 of the taxpayers money to point out why the department was not working was an imprudent use of funds.

Salvatore agreed and said that under her watch the building department would have been "more welcoming" and she would have added "Customer Service" to the equation. Salvatore said that she would give the people of Milford the "Services the pay for."

On the question of improving Milford, all candidates agreed that purchasing open space is a "good Idea" Spalthoff and Chaucer however were more concerned with the fact that the sidewalk by Harrison's Hardware has caused numerous injuries to pedestrians and questioned Richetelli on why it took so many public injuries and four years to repair it. Richetelli cited that the rules and regulations surrounding those kinds of issues are complex. That the city must follow legal protocol, notify the owners prior to work and place liens on offending properties a process that takes time.

Other public concerns were over flooding, and Ms. Salvatore said that a person she met while out campaigning has two separate residences because her place at the beach is impassable at high tide because the water submerges her driveway. At low tide she returns home, at high tide she goes to her apartment in Orange. Ms. Salvatore said that she would help alleviate flooding concerns at the beach to assist people in need.

Richetelli rebutted, saying that much of the Milford waterfront is below sea level and when you purchase a house at the beach you run that kind of risk. Richetelli also blamed unusually high tides for the flooding and said the he has been aware of these tantamount issues for a while.

On the issue of Eisenhower Park, Spalthoff questioned the logic behind spending money on studies only later to waste that money by walking away from it. Richetelli blamed the economy, and called many of the project cancellations as necessary given the most difficult economic climate he has ever experienced as Mayor. He also added that his opposition to the Jonathan Law bonding was also another difficult decision.

Another question regarding pensions came up, and Chaucer accused Richetelli of over reporting the health of that program. Chaucer alleged that Milford's pension fund lost more money than Fairfied's after the Madoff Scandal. Richetelli accused Chaucer of not having his facts straight and said the pension fund is over funded by 125% but those were the figures before the market declined admitting that the number may be different today.

Spalthoff cited an official report expressing concern over the cities pension fund and alleged that this years tax decrease will have to be made up in next years budget. Spalthoff said that the people of Milford got duped, because next year the break we received will have to be compounded to fulfill the contractual obligations the city entered into.

Spalthoff said that when the city goes looking for the money and cannot find it, the only alternative will be "higher taxes."

The debate concluded with a summary from each of the candidates, and each read what appeared to be a carefully prepared statement to the audience. Richetelli stood on his record, Salvatore promised Change, Chaucer offered historic preservation. Spalthoff spoke entirely without a written statement, and promised to make Milford more business friendly citing over eighty small businesses (he counted) that shut down along the Post Road.

Reviews from the audience were mixed, many came to support their candidate and therefore were not swayed by the debate while others appreciated the opportunity afforded them to question each of these candidates on the local issues in town.

The entire debate was recorded and the video will be posted here when made available to me.

Each of the candidates have their websites listed below for more information.

Jim Richetelli Peter Spalthoff
Genevieve Salvatore Tim Chaucer

The Milford Independent Party Celebrates Its Grand Opening With A Surprise Endorsement

The Milford Independent Party was standing room only at its 26 Broad Street location, the families and friends of all the candidates attended what was a very informative and spectacular event.

Most notable guests included a surprise visit from The Senior Agent of the Connecticut Independent Party Mike Terlesca. Mike Telesca, added the State Party endorsement of Peter Spalthoff to his already growing list of local endorsements.

Mike Telesca and the Independent Party Chairman rarely endorses candidates, but after getting to know Peter he drafted the following impressive letter below.

Mr. Peter Spalthoff
26 Broad Street
Milford, Ct 06460

Dear Peter,

As the state Agent of the Connecticut Independent Party, I am proud to have been part of Milford’s independent movement since the first meeting was held here at your office some six months ago.

It has been indeed an honor and a privilege to work and know an individual such as yourself who has found the hidden secrets of successful leadership. Your principle of “people not politics” is in fact an important principle that the Ct Independent Party tries to instill in all of its candidates.

Over the last several months we have taken the time to get to know who you are, and clearly without a doubt you are among the pillars of Milford Ct. Your past/present leadership positions as President or Chairman of so many local organizations and charities are an incredible testament to what kind of honorable and selfless individual you are.

While the Independent Party has endorsed many candidates, few rise to the level of commitment, professionalism and personal success that you have attained in your community. Therefore, it is my distinct honor to formally endorse you as our Independent candidate for Milford Mayor in the 2009 election cycle.

The Independent Party and all of its resources in your area will be encouraged to help you achieve an election victory come this November. In the meanwhile, feel free to count on our advisory board to assist you in any of your present/future campaign endeavors.


Sincerely;

Mike Telesca
Agent For Candidate Endorsement
CT Independent Party State Central

For those who do not know Mr. Telesca, he started the Independent Party in Waterbury Ct, and has gone on to win several local city positions for his party. Recently Mr. Teslesca was asked to consult for the state of Connecticut regarding the Green Party Lawsuit against the Citizens election campaign.

The Fledgling state program was remarkably impressed with Mr. Telesca because with his leadership last year he helped qualify the only 3rd. Party candidates in the state of Connecticut for public funding.

Mr. Telesca is a dynamo in the realm of third party politics in the state of Connecticut and his endorsement of Peter Spalthoff as the only Mayoral endorsement in the state of Connecticut is truly a great compliment to Peter.

The state party is now committing its resources to help Peter win this election come this November.

(Above Photo of Mike Telesca (L)and Peter Spalthoff (R))

The Milford Independent Party Extends Public Invitation To HQ Grand Opening

The Milford Independent Party is extending a warm welcome to the general public, especially all those undecided or Unaffiliated voters who do not identify with a political party.

Peter Spalthoff, the Independent Candidate for Mayor will be in attendance to meet and greet any Milford person who wishes to ask him a question, or get his thoughts about our City. Additionally the rest of the Milford ticket will also be available and on hand to share their views on local issues.

The Grand Opening celebration will be held on 9/17/2009 at 6:00P.M. at Peter's office building, (next to Dunkin Donuts on the Milford Green.) For directions call (203) 247-4357 or visit www.milfordindependents.com

The Milford Independents have also invited some interesting local and state reformers, who will certainly add an element of surprise and of course add lively informative conversation on the serious issues facing our town and state.

While there is no official charge for the event, the Independent Party would appreciate any contribution you can make. Recommended contributions are at the Independent Party website listed above.

Remember that we get the government that we elect, and this November not making an informed decision can cost you and your family dearly. Our elected leaders can make a difference in the amount you pay in tax, the quality of our emergency services and most important the level of education your kids will receive in the coming years.

Please forward this invitation to your friends and family (your e-mail list) and encourage them to come with you.

Devon Day Boast Lots Of Kids Fun & Sunshine

Devon day was a a fun filled, hot day. The Milford Independent Party featured in the photo was fundraising by selling ice cold water bottles to thirsty festival patrons. Kids really had the best of the event as they were entertained by all the inflatable jumpers, wall climbers, and slides set up on the baseball field at the Grove Circle field.

Devon Day celebrated the 6Th annual event of community pride and festivities aimed at bringing local neighborhoods out and together. Many small businesses and local newspapers were in attendance as well as the Devon Day founder and leader Nancy Seltzer.

A sincere thank you on behalf of all of us at the MDB to all those individuals who helped organize this wonderful event.

(Photo Appearances: L-R Peter Spalthoff, Mike Konopka, Dick Sieron, Rocco Frank)

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Date Corrected, Location Corrected 9/25/09
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Charles R. Iovino Rests In Peace

For those of you who might have missed it, I want to bring to your attention that Charles R. Iovino passed away on September 5th in Peabody Massachusetts at the age of 99.

While many of you may not know Mr. Iovino, he was the Mayor of Milford back in the late fifties and early sixties. While being the Mayor is significant in and of itself, Mr. Iovino was the very first Mayor of Milford and won not as a Republican or Democrat, but as a write-in candidate and he won overwhelmingly. His winning was a first in Connecticut as an Independent candidate.

Although I never met Mr. Iovino, he was/is an inspiration to me as I know an Independent candidate here in Milford can win just as he did back in 1959. His commitment to the City and not the political parties is my inspiration and I am truly sorry that I never had the opportunity to thank him for his leadership and commitment to the Milford community.

So, in this little way with this formal notification I wanted to say “thank you” Mr. Iovino for not only your inspiration to me, but more importantly for the years you served as one of Milford’s wonderful Mayors. May he rest in peace knowing that he has served us well.

From a very grateful citizen, an appreciative Independent Party, and a thankful community to have had the likes of Charles R. Iovino serve as our Mayor. I send our condolences to the Iovino family.

Peter L. Spalthoff

Independent Party Candidate for Mayor

Lessons Learned From The Cadley House Debacle

There are many lessons to be learned from the Cadley House debacle. At the very least, I hope we have learned to never again empower one person alone with the authority to determine the fate of a historically significant Milford property.

In their resolution, the board of aldermen handed the Mayor the authority to purchase and then sell the historic Cadley House. That authority granted the Mayor power over the transaction and even over building refurbishment, like selecting the exterior paint color. It seems that the aldermen’s intent was to preserve and protect the house, while entrusting this responsibility to the Mayor. However, the process followed by the Mayor was the opposite of what the aldermen envisioned.

The Mayor used the authority to have the historic house demolished, and then sold the house to a developer who had a new home built on the site.

Though possibly well intentioned, the results of the Mayor’s actions have raised many questions about the process. In the future, I would like the fate of our historic properties-whether to demolish, purchase, sell or renovate-to be resolved in accordance with city ordinances and with greater input from our City Historian, whose responsibility is to preserve Milford history. By doing this, the Mayor will not be alone in making the final decision concerning our historic properties, but rather consult and receive input from those that know more about the processes and the historic item.

As your Mayor, I will ensure that this practice is strictly adhered to so that the Cadley House debacle will never be repeated.

As Milford is the 6th oldest City in the State of Connecticut, we need to be more considerate of the historical property that we have, and we certainly need to be even more considerate in the way that we handle our historical property. Once we lose a historical piece of property, we lose it forever.

Peter Spalthoff

Milford's History Being "Demolished By Neglect."

A once-graceful, but deteriorating Gulf Street home is drawing the attention of preservationists and city officials determined to save it from "demolition by neglect.''

The 1890 neo-Colonial house at 417 Gulf St., owned by Nicholas Riggione, has missing windows that allow birds, rain and wind to damage the interior, officials said. "It is the most efficient way to allow a property to deteriorate," City Historian Richard Platt said.

Riggione met Platt at the property recently and reportedly indicated that he has plans to repair it, but the city historian said the owner offered no specifics or timetable. Riggione did not return calls for comment Monday.

The 1.6-acre property that includes the nearly 4,000-square-foot house has an assessed value of $922,000, 70 percent of its market value. It is near Gulf Beach and would fall within the boundaries of a proposed Gulf Street Historic District.

Linda Stock, the city's zoning code enforcement officer, notified Riggione by letter in March of several violations on the property, and set a deadline for them to be corrected. But nothing appears to have been done, officials said.

Platt and other preservationists are still smarting over the loss in 2007 of the Merwin-Cadley House on Gulf Pond, and what they feel was a circumventing of regulations meant to protect historic structures. A developer claimed that the house, one of the oldest in Milford, was being "dismantled," not demolished, but few of the original elements were ultimately reused.

"This is happening again right before our eyes, and it is clearly an economic development issue,'' said Genevieve Salvatore, chairwoman of the city Economic Development Commission. "People are coming to Milford for its quaint New England charm, and we're letting it go by the board."

Salvatore, the Democratic candidate for mayor, and an aide surveyed the property from an adjoining yard and took photos Thursday.

The issue is within the purview of her commission because of its impact on tourism and through its Neigborhood Preservation initiative, Salvatore said.

Lisa DiLullo, aide to Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr., said the mayor ordered a structural inspection of the house and no safety issues were found. The debris visible through the open windows is from interior renovations that are being made after Riggione received the required permits, DiLullo said.

Platt said that he will submit to the Board of Aldermen next month a proposed ordinance that would increase protection for historic homes and commercial buildings. Among other things the measure would make a legal distinction between dismantling and demolition.

Shorten to 50 years the age of a building eligible for protection and require notice to all adjacent property owners when a demolition permit is issued for an historic structure. Platt's legislation would also create a Historic Review Board to consider such permits.

The Gulf Street house is listed on the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation's list of "threatened'' properties.

CLICK HERE FOR ORIGINAL FRANK JULIANO STORY

Mayoral Candidates Address Downtown Challenges

Two mayoral hopefuls in recent weeks had their eyes on downtown Milford, offering suggestions about how to address a dangerous sidewalk and excessive pigeon droppings.

Peter Spalthoff, the Independent Party candidate, said he planned to fix what he described as a dangerous lip in a sidewalk near his Broad Street office himself because the situation has not been addressed.

Spalthoff said several people have fallen because of about an inch rise between two five-by-six-foot concrete pads that make up the sidewalk.

“I’m gong to have it taken care of so no one else falls,” Spalthoff said, explaining that his builder plans to give him a price on digging up and replacing one of the pads.

Spalthoff, whose Shoreline Mortgage office faces Broad Street, said he recently saw an older woman fall. And Ed Esposito, who was walking down the sidewalk last week with his dog, said he’s tripped on the lip three times.

He said he called the city about the problem, but according to Public Works Director Bruce Kolwicz, it’s the property owner’s job to keep the sidewalk in a safe condition.

In some situations, sidewalk repairs fall to the city, but in this case, it falls to property owner Joseph Voll.

“I talked to Joseph Voll,” Kolwicz said. “I told him he had to fix it, and he said, ‘No problem,’” Kolwicz said.

At the same time, petition candidate Tim Chaucer, a Democrat, said he called the city’s health department about excessive pigeon droppings on a sidewalk area just beyond that lip.

“Why is it that in the heart of downtown Milford, i.e. on the sidewalk in front of Harrison’s Hardware, we have an ongoing pigeon poop and feather health hazard,” Chaucer stated in a letter to the local papers.

“Pigeons sit in an area between the gutter and canopy of the building,” he wrote. “Has the owner been notified by the health department? The Heberts have been complaining about this for many months. The health department could notify the owner that this is a health hazard and insist the canopy be removed and even the gutter where the pigeons sit.”

Chaucer also expressed concern about the lip in the sidewalk and suggested the city correct the problem.

Jill Dion Original Story

Spalthoff Demands Action On Eisenhower Park

It has been over six years since the Mayor appointed the Eisenhower Park Study Committee and over two years since he received the report and he has done nothing with it. It is this type of indecision that he has continually displayed that has prompted me to formally ask him to place the acceptance of the report on the agenda for the next Board of Aldermen meeting in order for them to at least take the next step and adopt the plan as proposed by the committee, otherwise the entire process was a waste of time, money and community effort.

The committee has done an outstanding job in putting together a concise and forward thinking plan of just what might be in the park and how we should go about implementing the steps over many years and to have the report sit in the hands of the Mayor is just another example of him not making the necessary decisions on behalf of the community to move the plan along.

I am not asking that we spend money for the Park renovations at this time, I am only asking that we follow through with what was asked of the committee years ago and at least give them and the citizens of Milford the courtesy of having the plans at least be accepted by the Alderman as a template for what could be done at the Park.

The vision of what is to happen in the Park has already been developed and the proposed plans have been presented to the Mayor many months ago and here we sit having done nothing to make the park a reality. And please do not tell me that “these are hard times” and we need to do this and such. I realize more than anyone that we are in trying times however, without a plan, a goal and a sense of getting something done, Eisenhower Park will languish and we will have accomplished nothing for future generations.

We continually read in the press about various groups who are proposing or doing things in the park that are either; not proper to be doing or have not been approved by the citizens of this community... With better leadership, Eisenhower Park will become yet another jewel in the City as is our Marina at Lyman Landing.

We need to have the plan brought before the Aldermen formally for a vote to be accepted as the Eisenhower Park Study Plan and then the Aldermen can take action on the plan as they see fit. The implementation of this plan can and will only enhance our overall community image and the Mayor needs to step up to the plate today to take a stand on getting the ball rolling with this project.

Peter L. Spalthoff R11;MilfordR17;s Independent Party Candidate

Milford's Democratic Party Officially Split On Mayor

Tim Chaucer has officially decided to forgo a Democratic primary. Instead he will be a brave "lone Democrat." Chaucer who was recently "snubbed" by the Milford Democratic Town Committee, sought to avail himself by forcing a primary.

However, the bosses of the Democratic Town committee saw fit to do things their way. In one evening and by an exclusive members only vote, chose the less "well known" candidate of their choosing. The Democrats decided on a gamble that their candidate Genevieve Salvatore , has enough charm, charisma, and debate to show Milford she is "a class act." The Milford Democrats are counting on her skills as a lawyer, in selling Milford their "new face."

Chaucer, rightfully has been concerned with Genevieve Salvatore's affiliation with "questionable" developers who may circumvent business and political ethics with money and "high priced" attorneys. Chaucer represents a different breed of Democrat, the first (in a long time) to stand up against his party and engage in a de-facto protest.

Chaucer is currently very popular with many Democrats in his district, and around Milford many know him for his contributions in preserving Milford's Heritage.

Peter Spalthoff the Independent Candidate for Mayor is also expected to get a large draw, and with more Great Democratic names in the races... call it just when I say "eat your words" Genevieve it is no longer you against "three republicans" looks like the playing field just got a little more leveled and every vote now counts four times.

Tim Chaucer Initiates A Democratic Primary

For the first time in recent memory there will be a primary to determine who will become the Democratic nominee for mayor.

Timothy Chaucer said he has begun circulating petitions throughout the city, and is “well on his way” to achieving the 450 registered voters’ signatures to force a primary Sept. 15.

Chaucer, a longtime city preservationist, lost the Democratic nomination at the party’s convention last week, by a vote of 81-9, to Economic Development Commission Chairwoman Genevieve Salvatore.

The deadline for Chaucer to certify the signatures is Aug. 12. The winner will take on four-term Republican Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. and Milford Independent Party mayoral candidate Peter Spalthoff.

“I am working as hard as I can to get these signatures,” Chaucer said. “It’s not an easy task.”

Chaucer said he is committed to seeking a primary because he is the only candidate for “open government.”

“It’s what my campaign is all about,” Chaucer said. “An awful number of people are not convinced that everything is as it should be.”

Chaucer, who describes himself as a New England fiscal conservative, said he believes preserving the city’s character is vital.

“Milford can continue to be a tremendous tourist attraction,” Chaucer said.

Chaucer said he does not personally know Salvatore except that she is a practicing lawyer, and only recently became a registered Democrat. He also said her law firm has represented the “kind of interests” residents may not want in the mayor’s office, including large construction companies.

Salvatore said she’s had many clients and is “proud of each and every one of them.” She said she will not practice law if elected mayor, and vowed to run a “clean campaign.”

“I applaud both for their interest and their willingness to make the sacrifices necessary to run for the office. In the end, Genevieve earned a resounding victory,” said Democratic Town Chairman Richard Smith. “If Democrats are to win in November, it is now time we come together around the issues we believe in and the candidate we’ve selected.”

In 1987, Chaucer forced and won a primary, eventually getting a seat on the Planning and Zoning Board.

“I know Mr. Chaucer was talking about a primary and I understand that initial inclination. Still, knowing how important the issues are to Tim, I trust he will put aside his personal feelings and work for the good of our city and the Democratic Party. I look forward to having Tim’s help during this election,” Smith added.

Original Story NH REGISTER Brian McReady

Salvatore Wins Dem's Support Chaucer Demands Primary

Economic Development Commission Chairwoman Genevieve Salvatore easily secured her party’s mayoral nomination Wednesday at the Democratic Town Committee convention.

Salvatore, a local lawyer whose first foray into city politics was her appointment to the Economic Development Commission this year, secured the nomination by a vote of 81 to nine.

“I am taken aback and humbled by the support,” Salvatore said. “This year we are going to finish what we started two years ago. We are going to take back City Hall.”

Salvatore was challenged by Timothy Chaucer, a longtime city preservationist.

Chaucer, who failed in his attempt to gain his party’s backing for mayor, said Wednesday there is a “99 percent chance” he will pursue the nomination and force a primary.

Chaucer said he was not given an opportunity to speak in front of the 1st and 4th District committees, and predicted he would fair better at a primary than he did at the convention.

Chaucer forced a primary in 1987, eventually winning it and general election to become a member of the Planning and Zoning Board.

“The rank and file Democrats know who I am, they know what I stand for,” Chaucer said.

Under state law, if a primary is necessary, it will be held Sept. 15, said City Clerk Alan H. Jepson.

Jepson, who announced in May he will not seek re-election, was first elected city clerk in 1987 and has routinely enjoyed cross-endorsement.

The Democrats chose state Rep. Richard Roy over PZB Vice Chairwoman Kim Rose to replace Jepson as their nominee for city clerk.

New to the ticket for the Board of Aldermen this year is current chairman of the Police Commission, the Rev. Carleton Giles, and Luke Lynch from the 4th and 1st districts respectively.

The Republican slate will be set at its nominating convention Tuesday at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

Two Republicans were vying for the GOP mayoral nomination. But Wednesday, Republican Town Committee Chairman Tom Jagodzinski announced that former aldermanic Chairman Tom Beirne is no longer challenging four-term Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. for the Republican nomination.

Bierne confirmed he has withdrawn from the race.

Milford residents will also have a third-party choice in November. The Milford Independent Party, with former GOP Town Committee Chairman Peter Spalthoff at the head of the ticket, plans to run candidates for most positions.

James Tinley NH Register

ORIGINAL STORY

Tim Chaucer Demands Change In Milford

The city would look very different today if Tim Chaucer were running things.

In formally announcing his candidacy for mayor Monday evening, the Democrat listed several instances when his intervention -- even as a private citizen -- got large development plans rejected.

"When the current administration formulated plans to consolidate our two geographically balanced high schools, we formed Milford Citizens Against Mega Schools," he said during a rally on the City Hall steps.

"We showed how consolidating was not only a bad idea educationally, but would be more costly to the city taxpayer. We won the battle."

Chaucer said he opposed a proposal in the 1980s to reroute Gulf Street so that a developer and his daughter would have homes with a better view. "I am proud that we protected the beautiful vista from the Indian burial ground on Gulf Pond when elected officials did not have the city's best interests at heart."

The retired history teacher reminded the 15 supporters at the rally that the historic Merwin-Cadley homestead on Gulf Pond was torn down last year despite assurances by Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. that it would be saved. A developer paid less than the market value in exchange for a conservation easement that was to protect the property, Chaucer said.

The candidate said he opposed a plan to improve Eisenhower Park because it would have meant charging fees to residents to recoup the cost. "The park is there for
everyone to enjoy, for free," he said.

"And it certainly doesn't need $20 million of so-called improvements."

City officials were "asleep at the switch'' when the Langner property next to the library became available several years ago, Chaucer said.

"It was a park-like setting with black walnut trees, and it could have been acquired to add to the recreation complex next to it," he said. "Instead, there are condos on it now and parking at our ball fields is at a premium."

Chaucer said that he would foster open government by, among other measures, putting a logbook in the mayor's office that anyone could review. "It's transparency. We ought to know who our mayor is spending his time with." He'd also consider periodic public hearings on the operation of city departments and to hear residents' complaints.

The candidate admitted he faces an uphill battle at the Democratic nominating convention Wednesday night. Most party leaders seem to have promised their support to Genevieve Salvatore, currently the chairman of the Economic Development Commission. Chaucer would not rule out a primary.

Salvatore said, "It isn't surprising to me that there are more people interested in this race. Many people in Milford are dissatisfied with the status quo and we all agree that it is a good time for a change in leadership. While it's great that others are concerned about Milford's future, I am confident that I will be nominated by the Democratic Town Convention this week.

"I have a strong vision for our city's future and I believe that such vision, together with strong leadership, will be crucial for our success in November and beyond."

Richetelli said he is running on his eight-year record in office.

Peter Spalthoff, the Independent Party mayoral candidate, said, "Tim announcing that he is running for mayor simply goes to my belief that the citizens of Milford can only be the winners with more choices of candidates. There is no reason in the world why there should only be two candidates for the position."

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About Chaucer: Timothy Chaucer is the former chairman of the Milford Conservation Comission and a former elected member of the Milford Planning and Zoning Board. n He founded Milford Citizens Against Mega Schools several years ago to fight attempts to consolidate Jonathan Law and Joseph A. Foran high schools. n Chaucer has been program chairman for the Milford Historical Society for the past five years, and is nominating chairman for the Milford Preservation Trust. n He is the founder and director of the Milford Marine Institute Inc., which has educated more than 1,000 Milford children since 1983 about the value of salt marshes, woodlands, farmlands and meadows. n He is a retired high school and college instructor of American history, as well as criminal and civil law, and retains his state teaching certification

ORIGINAL ARTICLE BY FRANK JULIANO