Kathy Larkins for Tax Collector

To the Voters of Darien:

As many of you know, I am running for the position of Tax Collector of Darien which is a contested race for this position.  Why am I the candidate of choice?  Experience and education.  I have worked in the Tax Office for two years, the last four months as Tax Collector.  I have managed a seamless transition from my predecessor Bob Locke during the highest transaction month of July, hired a qualified replacement staff person to my previous position, underwent an audit, and ensured that required state filings were submitted on time.  As for education, I have successfully completed the two certified state municipal tax courses and exams surrounding the laws which govern the municipal tax collection process.  I will soon complete the third course which covers state and local government.  I will be fully certified by June 2014.

During my time in the Tax Office, some taxpayers have expressed their desire for additional conveniences.  These include offering additional payment options and access to tax payment history.  I have been researching the alternatives available to Darien given our current software and banking relationships, at the lowest cost to Darien and the taxpayers.  As required by our town’s charter, I will work with the Finance Director, Board of Finance and Board of Selectmen to communicate my findings and first solicit approvals required to effect any proposed changes.

As for my opponent’s campaign promises to “make senior abatements” and “a tax freeze for seniors”—no municipal employee, including the First Selectman, can enact such tax relief.  Darien, in conjunction with CT state, offer tax relief programs which are administered through the Assessor’s Office.  As Tax Collector, I will continue to direct and recommend these programs to any taxpayer who may qualify.

As for my opponent’s campaign promise to “assist in the appeals process”, this is a direct conflict of interest with the Tax Collector’s legal responsibilities.  A taxpayer may pursue appeals with the assessing company and subsequently with the Board of Assessment Appeals.  The Tax Collector must remain independent from the appeals process in order to preserve and protect interests of both Darien and all other taxpayers.

Based on my experience, education and detailed knowledge of the issues raised during this campaign, I respectively ask for your vote on Tuesday, November 5th.

Kathy Larkins

(203) 223-9172