RTM Re-Elects Moderator Hadley Rose

In a unanimous decision, Westport's Representative Town Meeting voted Tuesday night to re-elect Hadley Rose as moderator.

"Hadley ensures that the conducts of our meetings are always civil and fair to both the public and to us, the RTM members," Michael Rea of District 8 said in his nomination speech, adding that Rose is level-headed and principled.

"The person in the moderator's chair must be principled and that, my friends, is Hadley's greatest virtue," Rea said.

After thanking the group for their "continued vote of confidence," Rose said he's looking forward to making "Westport an even better town."

The RTM also unanimously voted Jonathan Steinberg of District 8 as deputy moderator.

Steinberg thanked the RTM and encouraged all members to be active in reviewing everything that comes before them and to strive to be well informed on every issue. He also encouraged the RTM to take up every task necessary, including new ordinances, to ensure every "Westporter is treated fairly."

In other action, the RTM read proclamations by First Selectman Gordon Joseloff celebrating the RTM's 60th anniversary. 

State Representative Joe Mioli, D-Westport, also read an anniversary proclamation from Governor M. Jodi Rell.

Even after 60 years, Rose said many residents don't know what the RTM does or how it works. He plans to set up a committee, chaired by Steinberg, to publicize RTM efforts and engage better communication with the public.

The RTM is the nonpartisan legislative body of the town.