Greenwich: Selectmen Seek Court Action Against BOE

In a surprising move, Greenwich's Board of Selectmen voted 2-1 to seek a temporary restraining order against the Board of Education. The vote comes after both boards appointed different candidates to fill a school board vacancy. The selectmen argue that the BOE's actions were illegal, while the BOE claims the selectmen are trying to grab power. This legal battle could take months, with both sides determined to win. The trouble began in October when the BOE appointed Jennifer Behette, a former educator, to fill a vacant seat. The next day, the selectmen appointed Paul Cappiali, the town's harbormaster. Both sides have since accused each other of power grabs and illegal meetings. The selectmen even filed a complaint with the Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission, but that process could take months. Selectman Peter Tesei, who voted in favor of the restraining order, said, "We cannot let this go on for months. We need to follow the law and precedent. " However, Selectman Sandy Litvack, who voted against the motion, disagreed. "This is an expensive and unnecessary legal battle, " she said. This isn't just a local dispute. Other towns are watching, worried that if one town ignores procedures and precedent, it could set a dangerous precedent. The legal action seeks to put the BOE back to its pre-October 21 state, with neither Behette nor Cappiali seated. It's a complex situation, with both sides firmly believing they're acting in the best interest of the town and its schools.