We-Ha.com welcomes Letters to the Editor from the public, including endorsements, but letters submitted by political candidates within 60 days of an election will not be published. Please provide your name and town, as well as your phone number at the end of the letter. Phone numbers will not be published but are required in case verification is needed. Please submit letters to [email protected].

My fellow residents,

For nearly 12 years, you gave me the immense honor to serve as your mayor.  

The first major decision I made as mayor was to appoint Shari Cantor to fill a vacancy on the Town Council. I did not know her prior to the interview process, but I was immediately impressed. She was a loving mother of four boys in the West Hartford schools, a respected financial professional and renowned for her charitable work. Most significantly, she was not a politician – in other words, someone with an invaluable perspective to bring to town service.    

I had no idea how right I would be. Shari became my trusted right hand, on all things but particularly on budgetary matters. Ultimately, she was named deputy mayor and I could not have asked for a better partner and friend in governing. 

Most people know Shari for her unbridled energy and as a consummate volunteer, a financial expert and an advocate for our senior citizens and students alike. While I share that viewpoint, I also had the privilege to see Shari’s intelligence, tenacity and compassion on display in many small meetings and negotiations where Town policy was made.

When I left office, I did so with the comfort that our excellent town administration and sound long-term policies were in place to keep the Town on solid footing. But most of all, I was comforted in knowing that Shari Cantor would step in to succeed me.

As mayor, she has shepherded the town through an extremely difficult time with class and poise. In a turbulent period, she has been resolute in protecting West Hartford’s interests at the capitol. But this has not distracted her from maintaining our top-notch schools and public safety while encouraging economic development that is the envy of the region.

I was part of many important decisions, but when I look back, I feel that my first decision was perhaps my best one. Shari Cantor has been an integral part of creating and sustaining the West Hartford of today. I strongly encourage you to continue her great work by re-electing her and the entire Democratic team on Nov. 7.

Sincerely,

R. Scott Slifka
Former Mayor of West Hartford