To the Editor:

For 35 years I’ve had the pleasure of watching Leighton Newlin grow from a small business entrepreneur into a community activist, and now with great hope a candidate for Princeton Council. As his nephew I’ve been able to experience his wisdom and compassion, for the betterment of all, firsthand and have been able to absorb the knowledge he has bestowed upon me. There is no better person for a seat on Council, as he will work tirelessly for the people of Princeton to make sure that the needs and best interests of its people will be the main priority of the town Council.

My uncle knows the importance of seeing the good in people and being able to listen to them, and more importantly fighting to represent them when needed. That was why he was able to be a beacon of hope as he helped those that he worked with reacclimate to society in transitioning back to society. It’s with that same determination and understanding that will help guide him on Council as he works to do what’s best for the town.

My uncle was one of eight residents who met weekly to help advise Council on why the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood deserved to be Princeton’s 20th historic district.  He brought to fruition the first ever Witherspoon-Jackson Welcome Weekend, where the members of the community came together to beautify their properties and the neighborhood while also introducing and reintroducing neighbors to each other.

For 24 years he has been a leading voice as a member of the Princeton Housing Authority board, with 19 of those years being the board chair. One of his main concerns is that rising taxes and affordability are forcing many low- and moderate-income families out of Princeton. He fears that, on its current trajectory, Princeton may lose it diversity, historic identity, and most importantly its soul, both figuratively and literally, in the not-so-distant future if the cost to live here remains unchecked.

This venture into the political realm is the natural next step for a man who has dedicated his life to community and public service, and only wishes to continue to work to make sure that the town that he calls home will be a town that continues to support equity, diversity, and good governance. He may not have all the answers at the moment, but I assure you that no stone will go unturned for him to find answers and solutions to the problems we will face.

As he and his running mate Eve Niedergang’s campaign slogan states, “Smart Growth — Wise Choices,” you can trust that he will do what’s best for the town, and there is no doubt in my mind this is a job that Leighton can and will succeed at, with the backing of the Princeton community.

This is why I ask you to join me in voting for Leighton Newlin for Princeton Council.

Antoine Newlin
Redding Circle