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To the Editor:
I am running for Town of Old Lyme Tax Collector because I believe in this town and I am the right person to update Old Lyme’s Tax Office now. Our town has an admirable tax collection rate – 99 percent, one of the highest in the state. I’m excited to update our systems and to make it easier for taxpayers to pay their taxes. I have the character, qualifications and commitment to do this.
I take seriously the collection, depositing and record keeping of our town’s property taxes and I will uphold the fiduciary responsibilities of this position. My professional experience, integrity and abilities speak for themselves. Before moving to Old Lyme over 20 years ago, I worked in Congressional liaison for a Federal financial regulatory agency while major regulatory and borrower protection reforms were enacted. I advanced to management positions in marketing and communications for large chemical and life sciences corporations. In Old Lyme, I have run my own communications and editorial business, as a journalist, writer and radio talk show host, while raising our two daughters.
Since January 2023, I have been working in the Tax Collector’s office, assisting Tax Collector Judy Tooker, who is retiring. You may have noticed some changes – an updated website, clearer bill status and online payment options. Our office is open during lunch hour year-round now. I care about Old Lyme’s taxpayers and making tax collection easy and efficient.
Perhaps you know me as co-chair of Pollinate Old Lyme, a Duck River Garden Club member who tends the flower bed at McCurdy Rd and Route 156, a Girl Scout Troop Leader, or have read my articles and features. I also have served as an Old Lyme appointee to the Connecticut River Gateway Commission for over 10 years, and was elected as its Chair a few years ago. I feel fortunate to have structured those years around raising our children here. Now that they are in high school and college, I am ready to lead Old Lyme’s Tax Office into the future.
Thank you for your consideration and support,
Suzanne Thompson
Old Lyme
Thompson, a Republican, is also running for reelection as a member of the Region 18 Board of Education