“Budget the plan, don’t plan a budget.” Judiciously funding the Strategic Plan has been a steadfast principle for the Old Saybrook school budget process for the past decade. I became well-versed in the benefits and challenges of this approach while serving on the Old Saybrook Board of Education (BOE), where I also chaired the Budget and Fiscal Subcommittee for many years. After an extremely rewarding 16 years of service, I recently stepped down from the BoE. Wanting to continue giving back to a town that has given so much to my family and me, I am running for the Board of Finance (BOF) in this fall’s election as a Democratic candidate.

If elected to the BOF, it is my intention to listen to all Old Saybrook constituents and work with other boards, commissions, and the Selectman’s Office to ensure appropriate funding of a comprehensive plan and vision that addresses the current and future needs of Old Saybrook. This requires an insightful, opportunistic, and strategic approach to town finances while mindful of financial burdens to citizens. Indeed, budgeting the plan!

My wife, Lynda Kieffer, and I moved to Ivoryton in 1989 for my position at Pfizer in Groton, and we started a family. In 2000, when our children, Keanna and Joshua, were reaching school age, we moved to Old Saybrook because we were impressed by the school system. Keanna and Josh benefited immensely from their time in Old Saybrook schools, from pre-K at Goodwin to graduation from Old Saybrook High School. During these years, I was an avid volunteer in the schools, including serving as treasurer for PTOs and the high school Music Boosters.

I believe that my background and experience would be a beneficial addition to the BOF, and I would be grateful for your support in the upcoming election.

George Chang

Old Saybrook