To the editor,
I’ve been involved in Connecticut energy policy since 1975, served on the Connecticut Energy Advisory Board and currently on the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Board. I have rarely seen a legislator like Ms. Nardello, tirelessly mastering complex and highly technical energy issues and keeping up-to-date in this rapidly changing area. She assumed responsibility for co-chairing the Energy and Technology Committee, heavily lobbied by monied interests. Over the years, Ms. Nardello effectively protected consumer interests, working long hours to do so.
Reflecting Ms. Nardello’s concern regarding development of well-conceived policy in the interest of state residents, she thoroughly reviewed every piece of energy legislation prior to any vote, to ensure there were no unintended consequences. This allowed her to fully apprise legislative colleagues of the purposes and implications of complex proposals, to inform their votes. With her integrity and insistence on good policy development, she earned the respect of colleagues, experts, and special interest lobbyists who learned her sophistication was a bar to proposals with the potential to harm consumers.
In addition to protecting consumer pocketbook interests, Ms. Nardello developed expertise in public safety. The complex electric system faces increased stress, including acts of nature such as extreme storms and cyber attack risks. Her efforts made Connecticut safer.
There are few legislators who offer the state the kind of effort and concern Ms. Nardello has demonstrated, the reason I want her voice in the legislature. Voters of the 89th District should return her to Hartford on Nov. 4.
Joel N. Gordes
West Hartford
