Unity and community service were two themes stressed at a swearing-in ceremony for newly-elected public officials in Seymour Monday.
John Conroy, Jr. served as master of ceremonies for the event, which was held in the auditorium of the Seymour Middle School. He reminded the audience that unlike their counterparts in Washington, D.C., politics in Seymour does not twist itself into gridlock
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It’s about public service — volunteerism simply aimed at making Seymour a better place to live. The people elected — contrary to popular belief — don’t get paid for their service, other than the town’s First Selectman.
So that makes local elected officials either stupid or a bit batty, Conroy and state Sen. Rob Kane joked.
Tuesday’s swearing-in ceremony was also a family affair, with several young kids in attendance to watch their parents take the oath.
First Selectman Kurt Miller’s young daughter, Kaitlyn, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
During a speech that lasted a little over three minutes, Miller stressed community unity.
“This town is blessed to have a great core of people,” Miller said, ranging from volunteer members of boards and commissions to local Little League coaches.
Miller, a Republican, said Seymour politicians are good at putting politics aside once elections are over and working for the good of Seymour.
He concluded by thanking his family — including his parents — for their support and love.
He was easily re-elected to a second, two-year term Nov. 5, as the local Democrats did not run an opponent against him.
Click the play button to watch Miller’s complete speech.