To the Editor:
I am writing in support of Bryan Anderson, Democratic candidate for state Representative, House District 119. As a resident of Milford and a board member and commissioner on several historic preservation entities in Milford, I first came to know Mr. Anderson when he served as the 5th District Democratic alderman. In particular it was Mr. Anderson’s role on the Aldermanic Ordinance Committee where I first witnessed his commitment to community and to enriching that community.
Mr. Anderson’s willingness to examine existing preservation ordinances, particularly the demolition permitting process and the demolition delay ordinance, was evident, and his insight helpful. He was instrumental in ushering through the Historic Preservation ordinance in 2016 and the subsequent formation of Milford’s Historic Preservation Commission. The Historic Preservation Commission presides over designated historic properties which lie outside Milford’s two local historic districts. Milford’s demolition ordinance was reexamined and amended, requiring that the City Historian, the Milford Preservation Trust and the Milford Historical Society be notified by certified mail of demolition applications. Neighbors of properties with pending demolition applications must also be notified and signs must be posted for public viewing on a prominent part of the structure.
Mr. Anderson also attended and delivered remarks at key public events such as the forum on Historic Homes Tax Credits and the bipartisan panel discussion on affordable housing in 2016.
Smart growth is a critical issue facing many municipalities in Connecticut and across the country – a walkable downtown and transit-oriented development are very worthy objectives, providing they incorporate sensitive treatment of historic properties. Milford’s historic core is a case in point and one that is being carefully examined even at the state level. Bryan Anderson has not shied away from tackling this issue, even when controversial. His frankness and insight have been noted by many of my colleagues on various boards and commissions. His many years in a classroom have served to make him an exceptional listener and a skilled negotiator.
Milford will be well represented and well served by this dedicated public servant, and I am proud to support his candidacy.
Michele Kramer
Milford Preservation Trust
Milford Historic Preservation Commission
Milford