Selectman Whiting decries online attacks, says embezzlement allegation is 'petty and ridiculous'

Selectman Craig Whiting used his May 5 report to defend the town's budget process and to criticize repeated online attacks against board members and town officials. Whiting said the budget is built from definite numbers and past budgets and that he is proud of the work done over nine years on the budget process.

Whiting said there have been 'constant attacks and accusations' since he and First Selectman Brian Ohler ran for office. He told the board that accusations have included claims the town edited public videos on YouTube and, most seriously, an accusation that First Selectman Ohler was embezzling money. Whiting said: "If there was ANY truth to that the town attorney would have already been involved. The attacks and accusations are petty and ridiculous and he considers them to be character defamation."

Whiting also said the town auditor had been publicly defamed after saying the treasurer does a good job, and warned that continued false statements could lead to defamation lawsuits. He noted the selectman position is paid (he referenced $6,500) but called the amount 'not near enough' and 'more of an aggravation fee.'

Why it matters: public accusations against elected officials and town staff can affect trust, participation, and the town's ability to recruit outside professional help (Whiting said the auditor may be deterred from participation because of public attacks). The remarks signal the board's concern about local online discourse and potential legal steps.

What’s next: Whiting said the matter will be called out at meetings going forward; no formal complaint or legal action was recorded in the minutes.