To the editor: 

As a business owner and Westport resident, I wanted to offer my support for re-electing Rep. Jonathan Steinberg to represent Westport in the state capital. My company, Lodestar Energy, has been developing solar farms in the Northeast for the past 11 years and Jonathan has been a consistent advocate for renewable energy in the state. 

He is chairman of the Energy and Technology Committee and has been an important voice in holding Eversource accountable for their escalating energy rates and the need to improve storm resiliency and infrastructure.  

Our high energy costs are frustrating, but it is a complicated situation based predominantly on poor legacy contracts with Millstone nuclear, which makes up over 50 percent of our power in the state. Jonathan understands these challenges and brings a pragmatic and solution-oriented approach to these issues. Most importantly, he wants our input and listens. 

I am also a proud board member of Wakeman Town Farm and Jonathan is a loyal supporter of the farm. He gives his time generously as a volunteer at key events, including recently at the amazing Harvest Fest and Oktoberfest events. 

I hope you join me in supporting Jonathan to continue to represent us in Hartford.

Jaime A. Smith

Westport