Change Wilton leadership for families and bears

There was a bear in my yard yesterday. I wasn’t thrilled to have a bear breaking my bird feeders and flattening the wrought iron pole. I bet the bear wasn’t thrilled to be there either.

I worried about the children and pets in my neighborhood. And I worried about what might happen to the bear. I hoped for his safe capture and transport to a more suitable environment.

This prompted me to call the town of Wilton. When I reached someone, I explained the reason for my call and asked, “Please tell me what actions the town of Wilton plans to take to ensure the safe capture of the bear, and protect the families who live here?”

“Well, nothing that I know of,” came the reply. Baffled, I added, “I know DEC assists with the removal of animals that are not suited for residential neighborhoods. Is it possible for someone who represents the town to call DEC and ask if that’s an option?”

In response, “We advise people on taking precautions; don’t put garbage cans out at night, or have bird food this time of year.”

I was astonished and dismayed that this was the position and response from my town representative.

Our neighborhoods are built for people and families, not bears. I am not an expert on town planning or the consequences of over-development. However, I expect our town officials to be knowledgeable and apply this knowledge to lead our town responsibly.

Wilton families deserve to have elected officials who protect all aspects of our communities, including our backyards. My family looks to town officials to serve its residents. Not to address when to feed the birds or put out my garbage.

We get to vote for individuals to do this. We have a voice. I am going to use mine and vote for:

Nancy Dwyer, Town Supervisor Ken Garcia, Town Council Paula Trancredot-Penman, Town Council

John Helenick, Highway Superintendent

Eric Rosenburg, Town Justice

My voice is for my family, my neighborhood, my town -and for the bear. Martha Devaney

Wilton