As the summer weeks progress, I find myself being thankful for the leadership, planning, organization, and direction provided by our Madison town officials. Faced with new and unique circumstances brought about by the pandemic, which no one could have anticipated, our town leaders have diligently applied themselves to addressing the challenges faced by our community.

Under the supervisory leadership of First Selectman Peggy Lyons, we have seen our town departments, commissions, and committees work together to promote the health, safety, and recreational opportunities for all of us.

Our town beaches opened on time and the beach pass system has worked to ensure safety—limited access for residents. Thanks go to the Beach & Rec Commission and Director Scot Erskine.

Our beaches and shoreline have been regularly patrolled by our fine police officers, in efforts to manage overflow from Hammonasset Beach State Park and elsewhere. I’ve found the presence of police officers reassuring, and I always stop to thank them for being there. Thanks go to our police commission and to Chief Jack Drumm.

Other town departments deserving credit include our Senior Center (Austin Hall and Heather Noblin) for food deliveries, our Health Department (Trent Joseph) for timely guidance, and Madison Youth & Family Services (Scott Cochran) for support services to families in need.

During and following Tropical Storm Isaias, our town agencies again coordinated in a way that saw our police, fire, ambulance, and Town Public Works crews on the job, and support services provided at town facilities.

There are many others deserving of recognition, and my apologies for not being able to name every individual who has contributed to the wellbeing of our community. I am just thankful to live here in Madison where yes, town government continues to serve the best interests of all of us.

Bill Stableford

Madison