Crime & Safety

Two from Councilman John Dempsey

The following are two letters to the editor written by Councilman John Dempsey. The first one discusses Stratford's move toward progress under Dempsey's counsel, and the second is an account of the councilman's participation in Fire Ops 101.

Editor's note: John Dempsey represents the 5th District on the Stratford Town Council. is the Democratic challenger for his seat in the November election, which is 13 days from now.

By John Dempsey

Contrary to the grim reality being perpetuated by the critics of our town, Stratford has been making progress with the help of its citizens and politicians alike.

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There have been plenty of positive contributions that benefited more than just the

During my two terms as councilman I have implemented such things as curb cuts to both and elementary schools, the reconstruction of the football field, and I am currently spearheading the complete, much needed renovation of . These improvements not only help ensure a quality educational environment, but improve the safety standards of the students and teachers. 

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The determination from all of our citizens, young and old, to have a better Stratford will continue to inspire me. This commitment has delivered in a number of ways, leading to tax relief for the elderly, increased police patrols in the 5th District and the building of a new EMS headquarters.

With expert and committed leadership, Stratford will continue to improve and the “fantasies," as my opponent quips, for our town will no doubt become a reality.

Our town along with other local municipalities, our state and our country are all facing the same grim economic realities of the present. However, it is my belief Stratford can turn the problems we face today into ambitions for the future.

During these tough economic times it is important to keep the morale of our town at its highest and understand that with the right attitude we can accomplish what we set out to do because I believe in Stratford and have faith in its people.

***

The Fire Ops event that I attended last year opened my eyes to the realities of what our town firefighters and EMS workers have to endure on a daily basis. The experience stuck with me during my service as councilman, and I have always remembered every worker I spoke with that day.

During my second year I felt I was prepared for what I was getting into, however, nothing can prepare you for that type of work. To say this year’s tasks were a friendly reminder would be an enormous understatement. Everyone knows the job of a firefighter and EMS worker is dangerous, but you cannot fully appreciate the work until you have walked in his or her “boots."

As I was taken from station to station, I was challenged every step of the way with the strenuous tasks of crisis control. From listening to all firefighters and EMS workers I’ve realized that what they are asking for is simple assistance that will help them better protect the residents of Stratford.

This event doesn’t serve as a political springboard as my suggests; after all, I already hold the office she wants to win. This event is an educational tool that helps inform and our of basic needs that will help our firefighters save lives.

It truly helped me understand that these highly-trained individuals are entrusted with our lives at a most vulnerable time that nobody ever sees coming. They need the support from the Council to ensure they have the equipment and necessary training to save our lives in that time of need.

It is my honor and privilege that both our and chose to endorse me for another term as 5th District Councilman based solely on my support and understanding of what they need in order to do their job and their job is clearly putting their lives on the line for ALL the people of Stratford.

For this, I sincerely thank each and every one of them.

To submit a letter to the editor, please email Stratford Patch editor Jason Bagley at jason.bagley@patch.com.


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