Candidates Forum-Opening & Closing Statements
Opening Statement
My wife Jenifer and I have lived in our first and only home on Contour Drive for 23 years, where we raised our 2 children, Cara and Patrick who are both attending college now.
In 2005, we began a small charity event on our street that 2 years later expanded to the entire town. Now in our 15th year, Cheshire’s Lights of Hope has raised over $900,000 for many local charities. I have shown the care and compassion I have for this community. I will bring that same care and compassion to the Town Council.
I hold a BS degree in Business-Economics and have recently opened my own business here in Cheshire, again, showing my commitment to this town. I have served on the Planning and Zoning Commission as an alternate for the past 1 ½ years, where we have made several major changes to entice economic development. We need to continue to encourage quality economic development to help increase our grand list and keep this town affordable for all. We need Town Council members who are engaging with ideas and suggestions to help guide us through this difficult financial period. The 3rd District needs a voice to represent them. I am that person.
Closing Statement
I would like to thank the Chamber for putting this forum together.
2 years ago, I ran for this same seat and lost by 66 votes. After the loss, I spoke with Jeff to congratulate him and asked him to become more engaged in the meetings, which he wasn’t the previous 8 months. He promised he would. Unfortunately, he hasn’t. The next Council will be facing some very big financial decisions, Master Facilities Plan, Loss in State Aid, and the possibility of the teacher’s pensions being dropped on us. We need people who have a keen understanding of finance and budgets and are willing to speak up and offer suggestions and comments during the meetings. I am a proven civic and business leader and with my experience on the Planning and Zoning Commission, I have the background necessary to offer solutions and advice.
All candidates talk about keeping taxes down, keeping a high standard of quality education and increasing economic development, but words are words. We need people who will follow through with action. I promise I will.
Thank you to my wife, who is currently running a volunteer event tonight for our charity, and my kids for allowing me to spend so much time on this election and for supporting me through it all.