The recent revelations about East Haddam’s abrupt decision to halt services for private roads expose a shocking betrayal of trust by town leadership—specifically, by First Selectman Irene Haines. The lack of transparency and blatant disregard for ethical governance demands our attention and accountability.

A Vile Betrayal of Trust

The residents of East Haddam, including myself, were blindsided by this decision. Many of us moved here believing in the promise of community and equitable governance. We pay taxes just like everyone else—taxes that fund services we are now being told we’re no longer entitled to receive.

To add insult to injury, the administration’s tone during the January 15th Board of Selectmen meeting was dismissive and condescending. They framed the few services provided as “favors” rather than obligations. This narrative attempts to rewrite the fundamental contract between taxpayers and the town, reducing us to second-class citizens while they continue to collect our money.

The Ethical Breach

At its core, this decision reflects a vile disregard for town ethics. To knowingly withhold information that directly impacts taxpayers’ lives and finances is not just poor governance—it’s a betrayal. The role of the First Selectman is to lead with integrity, not to manipulate the system for political advantage.

Residents of private roads were never notified of the impending halt in services. We weren’t given a chance to prepare, voice concerns, or even contest the validity of the decision. This lack of communication is not just an oversight; it’s a deliberate attempt to avoid accountability.

A Call to Action

This issue is bigger than snow plows or private roads. It’s about the kind of leadership we expect and deserve in East Haddam. Irene Haines and the current administration have failed us, but we don’t have to accept this as the status quo.

We must demand answers:

• Why were we not notified in the summer when the decision was made?

• How does the town justify taxing residents on private roads while denying us services?

• What steps will be taken to prevent such unethical behavior in the future?

We must also demand change. Whether it’s through public forums, petitions, or even considering legal action, we need to hold our town leadership accountable. This betrayal cannot go unanswered.

Looking Forward

East Haddam deserves leaders who prioritize the needs and rights of all residents, not just those who serve their political ambitions. Irene Haines’ actions have fractured trust within our community, but we have the power to rebuild it—by insisting on transparency, fairness, and integrity in all aspects of governance.

This issue isn’t just about private roads; it’s about the future of our town and the values we hold dear. Let’s make it clear: we will not stand for deception, inequity, or betrayal. Our voices matter, and it’s time for them to be heard.

The recent transcription from the January 15, 2025, East Haddam Board of Selectmen meeting reveals a troubling lack of transparency and accountability from First Selectman Irene Haines. It has come to light that Haines was aware of the decision to halt services to private roads as early as the summer of 2024, yet this critical information was deliberately withheld from residents.

Residents, who contribute equally to the town’s tax base, were denied essential services without prior notification or justification. This not only raises questions about the equitable use of taxpayer funds but also highlights a breach of the social contract between the town’s leadership and its citizens.

The lack of transparency and accountability demonstrated by the current administration is unacceptable. It is imperative for the residents of East Haddam to demand answers and hold their leaders accountable for actions that directly impact the community’s well-being and trust in local governance.