A campaign to change East Haven

This upcoming mayoral election is not about whether the Democratic or Republican candidate wins, for what is quite apparent is who ultimately loses. For if our notorious decadesold reputation means anything, and it should, then it must be abundantly clear: it is us. All of us are the ones who inevitably suffer.

If low property taxes alone fundamentally determine the sentimental appeal of a community or a neighborhood, then why should East Haven real estate properties not be perceived as equal in allure and value with our neighbors along the Long Island shore?

East Haven’s image — or, more succinctly, its reputation — is perceived at the level that does not rise to the standard that evokes positive and comforting thoughts. And in that atmosphere, many opportunities for economic progress and social advancement are lost. So should we not commit to erasing that image, if for nothing else than to show our shoreline neighbors who we truly are?

To this day there is that visceral fear of encountering racism and xenophobia in town, a state of mind that inhibits more than encourages potential growth. We have a government that is inept, insensitive and corrupt; shallow in depth and insular in its views, which tolerates willful negligence and malfeasance in its ranks. In fact, it glorifies those it likes by giving it pay raises.

Beyond that, consider the thousands of dollars we’ve spent “defending” appalling behavior because we are hostages of our own government. Is that why we pay taxes?

I view this upcoming election not as a political race but as a fight for the heart and mind of East Haven and beyond. Towards that end, I am running as a petition candidate for the office of the mayor of our town. My goal from the beginning has been simple. I want to contribute what I can to make our town a better place than when we found it.

And if you believe as I do that we need a fundamental change in government, join me in this noble pursuit, and let us all change it.

Oni Sioson candidate for mayor

East Haven