Greenwich Voices For Accountability and Transparency

  Interestingly enough, we came across this Letter to the Editor in the Greenwich Free Press penned by Greenwich High School Sophmore   Riona McKersie concerned that Latin, a classical language, will not be be offered at GHS but rather through online sessions graded as pass/fail. The letter doesn't mention the reason for this but we decided to do a little digging and found more interesting things going on under Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones' watch. https://greenwichfreepress.com/letter-to-the-editor/latin-club-president-please-keep-latin-alive-at-ghs-216025/ If you're a parent with children in the Greenwich Middle Schools or Greenwich High School, you may find this very interesting. Interesting because, unless you do your due diligence, Greenwich Public Schools appears to be more than happy to keep this information from you. Parents should always be wary not to accept every district policy at face value. The premise has been that the school district knows what's best fo...

The above image is very indicative of the Greenwich Public Schools and the woke agenda it represents. Several concerned parents who have children attending Western Middle School sent this to us unhappy that this ridiculous agenda is being forced on children and parents rather than pursuing academic excellence through best practices and genuine input from them, residents and the PTA. The woke agenda in schools refers to the incorporation of social justice, diversity, and inclusivity principles into educational practices and policies. It aims to promote awareness of systemic inequalities and empower students to become agents of change in creating more equitable learning environments. The purpose of receiving an education is to gain the foundations of basic principles that will be needed in life. Examples include, math, reading, writing, history and criticial thinking. Our children should always be encouraged to thiink for themselves and when appropriate, debate with others on their psiti...

                                                             Screenshot, Greenwich Patch Here's a few questions we should be asking ourselves: Why Republican First Selectman Fred Camillo and Republican Selectwoman Lauren Rabin would appoint Mr. Turner to two separate and highly influential committees given that he is a former Chair of the Democrat Town Committee? Why do Camillo and Rabin always appease Democrats instead of appointing Republicans who will advance Republican principles, policies and values?  What is their rational for appointing these individuals? Perhaps we should all scrutinize their past and future nominations. Very telling indeed which team they play for. Principled Republicans would really like to know. Seriously. The Connecticut Centinal  does a great job in breaking this down further. Tony Turner Shown ...

  Screenshot, GVAT True Republican values encompass a set of principles that guide the beliefs and actions of members of the Republican Party locally and across the United States. These values are rooted in conservative principles and a commitment to limited government, individual freedom, and personal responsibility. Central to Republican values is the belief in the importance of small government and free-market capitalism as the best mechanisms for promoting economic growth and opportunity. True Republicans also emphasize the importance of individual liberties and believe that the Constitution and the rule of law should be upheld, protected and apply to all, regardless of position or status. Another key aspect of true Republican values is a focus on personal responsibility and self-reliance. Republicans believe that individuals should be accountable for their own actions and should not rely on government handouts or entitlement programs to meet their needs. They emphasize the imp...

  Screenshot, CT Patch Corruption among local officials is a serious issue that undermines the trust and integrity of the government. These officials hold positions of power and authority that allow them to make important decisions affecting the lives of citizens in their communities. When these officials engage in corrupt practices, such as accepting bribes or misusing public funds, it not only erodes public trust but also prevents resources from being used for the betterment of society. One of the main reasons why corrupt local officials must be held accountable is to ensure that justice is served. When officials abuse their power for personal gain, it is a betrayal of the public's trust and a violation of their duty to serve the best interests of the community. Holding these officials accountable sends a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated and that those who engage in such practices will face consequences for their actions. Furthermore, holding corrupt elected a...

  Screenshot, Greenwich Patch If you're a concerned parent or resident with children in Greenwich public or private schools, please consider following our like-minded friends at Concerned CT Parents. Their website and newsletters are full of relevant information concerning the education and welfare of our children in Greenwich and in Connecticut. These folks are our go to source for this information. https://concernedctparents.com/

  Screenshot (littlemiamischools.com) As you may be aware, on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in the early morning, a lockdown was initiated at Western Middle School. Reports state that a 19-year-old male, a former student at WMS, gained entry to the school through the front door while students were being dropped off and proceeding to their destinations within the school. The subject, after entering the doors unchallenged, made his way to the 7 th  grade bathroom and remained there until he was discovered. It is our understanding that until recently, Dr. Wax, who resigned prior to the incident, greeted students at the door every morning, presumably to ensure the safety of the entering students. However, since his resignation, no staff member had been at the door since his departure. It is our understanding that the Assistant Principle and several staff members are at the door now. This is extremely concerning because a) he was able to gain entry unchallenged, b) continued to b...

Screenshot (everythingbackyard.net) Effective May 24 at 6:00pm, the use of gas-powered leaf blowers will be prohibited on residential properties until September 30. However, residential properties exceeding two acres will have the option to use gas-powered leaf blowers after Labor Day.  This restriction specifically targets gas-powered leaf blowers. Beginning in 2025, individuals found in violation may face fines of $100 for a first offense and $249 for subsequent offenses. Having served on the RTM, the issue of leaf blower noise during the summer months has been a topic of discussion in our town for several years. A group known as Project Quiet Yards has been advocating for a quieter environment, while landscapers and residents who take pride in their properties have been resistant to change. The debate has centered around the use of gas-powered leaf blowers versus electric-powered equipment. We've asked and continue to ask these questions, namely: Who will enforce these new ordin...

Whether you are a lifelong resident or recently moved into our great Town, it's very important to understand how your local government works and the components within.  While many of us are busy with families and careers, knowledge of local government is just as important. As a taxpayer, you deserve to be informed and be well informed about what is happening, by whom and why. To blindly trust your elected officials always offers the chance for lack of accountability which in turn leads to less transparency.  Keep in mind, it's YOUR tax dollars.  Screenshot, Google Images A Snapshot of Greenwich Governance: The Office of First Selectman: The First Selectman is the Chief Executive Officer of the Town. He/She sits on a three member Board of Selectmen and is elected every two years. https://www.greenwichct.gov/1041/About-the-Office-of-the-First-Selectman The Office of Selectman: Two part-time elected members who, along with the First Selectman, sit on the Board of Selectmen. ...

In a democratic society, accountability and transparency are essential pillars that uphold the integrity and trustworthiness of government institutions. When it comes to town government, these principles are particularly important as they directly impact the lives of local residents and shape the future of the community. Why Accountability Matters: Accountability in town government refers to the responsibility of elected officials and public servants to act in the best interests of the community and to be answerable for their actions. Without accountability, there is a risk of corruption, misuse of public funds, and decisions that do not reflect the needs and wishes of the residents. By holding town officials accountable, residents can ensure that their voices are heard and that decisions are made transparently and fairly. This fosters trust in the government and promotes a sense of community engagement and participation. Screenshot, Greenwich Patch The Power of Transparency: Transpare...