I am writing to celebrate the new generation of volunteers running on the Democratic ticket in Killingworth this fall. They have stepped forward as candidates for public office at a time when fewer and fewer people are doing so.

Earlier this year, I published a book about the health of American democracy. I examined national trends through the lens of life in Killingworth. I noted that democracy depends on more than voting; it requires sustained, active engagement in the institutions of our society. I also recognized forces working against such engagement today, including the competing demands on our time, the need for two incomes in a family, and the personal attacks that are too common these days.

It’s exciting that Eric Couture, a young man with a passion for politics and service, is running for First Selectman. Eric grew up in Killingworth, attended school, and played Little League here. We need more people like him to become engaged. Stepping forward, he sends a message to his generation that their time to assume responsibility has come.

Six candidates are running for public office for the first time: Bill Kosturko for Board of Finance, Mike Sarlin for the Planning and Zoning Commission, Mark McCormick for Zoning Board of Appeals, Bill Joyce for Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate, Michael Reimers for Fire Commissioner, and Jen Voegtli for Board of Education. We should be excited about so many people volunteering to help strengthen our community.

Those candidates are bringing their experience in their professions and their community to bear on governing our town. That’s a hopeful sign for the future of democracy in Killingworth.

Paul W. Kahn

Killingworth