This week we present a question and answer session with the candidates for Town Council - in alphabetical order.
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Employer: Credit Union National Association (Members Capital Advisors)
Education (high school and college): Weth High Class of 72 CCSU Class of 76 BS in Accounting
Military service (if any):
Civic and professional associations: UNICO, Member National Credit Union Association
Web presence: John.Console@cunamutual.com Johnconsole@sbcglobal.net
Political:Two council terms 79-81 07-09
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
Working in an environment of a great recession and an economic development downturn pattern coupled with a 40% increase in taxes over the last 4 terms
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Get out the word that Wethersfield is "Business friendly" promote the location available with SUGGESTIONS on what the properties can be used for. BE CREATIVE.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
SILAS DEANE HIGHWAY: More façade improvements, Stores that generate a middle upper class attraction to come to Wethersfield, As Bill Savitt use to say "give the people a reason to come and the will come" Perhaps incentives to make it possible for businesses to want to be in this town.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
Continue to take a hard look at spending "think out of the box" for changes We as other towns are on our own in many respects. Subsidies are less from State and Federal Government. MANY towns' people are making less we have to sync the town spending in the same
Manor without drastic cuts that have a drastic effect for years to come In escence run the town as a business and make everyone accountable.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I am running because it is my goal to make this town a better place to live for all people Not just special interest groups. All people should contribute in some respect in their community, This is my contribution.
Taking pride in a Village I have lived in since 1962, hoping to make it a better place, with a brighter forecast for the generations to follow. Using my investment experience and my many contacts in business and government along with sharing ideas with my esteemed colleagues that are on the ticket with me, we will succeed.
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
Meeting many people in town, helping to solve economic issues, but most of all being the voice of so many people, asking the tough questions and being the "watchdog" over the present majority party. Although I have battled many a time on the Council, I continue to fight for what I think is right for the thousands of other residents in this town who I speak on behalf.
David Drake (R)
Employer: (Owner) International Plating Technology, LLC
Education (high school and college): Wethersfield High school, Univ. of CT. BS. Mechanical Engineering, Univ. of CT MBA
Military service (if any): NA
Civic and professional associations: Licensed Professional Engineer in St of CT
Poltical experience: Town Council, Board of Education, Chairman of School Projects Building Committee for SDMS, Stillman BOE building and Webb projects
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
The continual decline in our school system compared to other area towns. Being just a residential community it is the most important asset we have to offer existing and new residents.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Help support a new BOE to bring our school system back to what it used to be. We need to continue attract active and informed residents to Wethersfield and they won't come without a great school system. A combination of people wanting to live here and reasonable taxes will always be a place that new and existing businesses will want to be.
I would concentrate on enforcing local zoning ordinances that are in place (which we presently don't follow up on very well) that keep our neighborhoods clean, picked up and attractive.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
Other than the façade program the existing Economic Development Authority is our main focus for new business. If tax payers through the authority have to fund a $20M give away to attract developers there is something wrong with the business climate we have created. If people want to live here and taxes are fair relative to other towns then Wethersfield's Berlin Turnpike would be as developed as Newington's. Presently it's not close.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
Other than Hartford our taxes are higher than other local suburban towns. Taxes can't continue to increase as we have done over the last 20 years as we will put ourselves in a worse position than we are now. Wethersfield is a residential community; it doesn't have a lot of business and doesn't really have room for many more. Wethersfield's town structure hasn't changed in 40 years ago, it needs to be sized correctly to support what we are (or should be), a bedroom community only with clean, kept up and safe neighborhoods. Our schools should be the best (we presently spend more than most of our surrounding communities with marginal results) and concentrate our resources on providing a core of residential services that will want people to move here.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
Having been a past member of the Town Council and BOE as well a chairing a number of major school building projects I understand how the town operates. I am not a new comer. I started and operate a manufacturing business that competes nationally in a state that's not very business friendly. I feel I have a lot of expertise that I can bring to our town that I think is struggling with what it wants to be.
Matthew Forrest (D)
Employer: Law Office of Matthew Forrest and Capital Community College where I teach classes related to government.
Education (high school and college): WHS Class of 1995, B.A. from Brandeis University and Nottingham University (England) where I concentrated studies in Economics and International Economics, respectively. J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law with studies at the Inns of Court (London) and Catholic University (Portugal). There I concentrated in contract and international law, respectively.
Civic and professional associations: Member of the Connecticut and New York bars and well as the federal bar for the District of Connecticut. I volunteer for several charitable organization including Mayors charities for our troops abroad, pro bono legal work for the poor, and helping college students with their mock trial advocacy skills. The Green Summit committee that presents new and innovative ways for Wethersfield citizens to be better stewards of the environment and lowering energy costs. I also donate to many local charities and volunteer my time for the Keene Foundation.
Political office: Three full terms as a councilor.
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
The most important thing we can do is provide strong and solid life long educational programs, but the most challenging is growing our commercial tax base with smart growth techniques. With almost every door I knock on, residents ask me about the Silas Deane. As public works chair, I wanted to take a minute to express our progress and future. When I entered office in 2003, the Silas Deane was a major priority. I assure you, it continues to be! We have a multi faceted plan to improve the look and vibrancy of this corridor, thereby increasing its development potential.
1. First, we needed people to go out and aggressively work with property owners and new businesses to facilitate the process. In 2003, that was immediately done and we should work to continue to enhance this process. Separating the job of planner and development coordinator has been discussed and might be beneficial for the Town. This could allow more time to concentrate on business development.
2. Second, we needed a plan for beautification of the corridor. In 2005, the plan was completed!
3. Third, we needed to influence the aesthetics of any new development with a design review committee. Done and influential.
4. Forth, we provided a tax incentive program to help entice good merchants. Plan created and used. Example - Peltons new headquarters is on the Silas Deane Highway.
5. Fifth, we provided a façade grant program to improve the look of existing shops. This good program needs to continue, example Mila Fabric and Bliss Market among others.
6. Sixth, we became a Preserve America community, a portion of which is a signage program for nice, good-looking signs. On their way!
7. Seventh, create a redevelopment authority to examine turnover of our most troubled lots. Example Funzone.
8. Eighth, seek and establish multiple funding sources to implement the projects.
* State delegation has delivered beautification grants
* Town has contributed to programs and beautification
* Federal government is funding Preserve America
This challenge needs to be addressed from all angles, including public and private considerations. When I hear reasons why we can't improve our commercial sectors, there should be a resounding; Yes, we can solve those issues. Yes we can make Wethersfield better commercially.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Businesses can grow by improving the aesthetic value of our commercial corridors, aggressively seeking development opportunities, and by working with potential businesses to solve any hurdles that may be impeding appropriate progress. You want to create a culture upon which Wethersfield is a desirable place to grow business.
There are also many different energy strategies that can give Wethersfield a competitive advantage over other towns. These might include local renewable energy generation, favorable energy zoning, and independent energy districts.
Residents require a strong education system, strong infrastructure, strong park and recreation facilities, and of course, a people that care about each other and have pride in their Town.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
Please see above.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
I have done both over my six years on council. When I make decisions on spending, they are not made in a vacuum of some arbitrary tax rate or mill number. I try to always make decisions that I believe, at that time, are in the best interests of the Town of Wethersfield. I go into every budget season looking to reduce spending and improve efficiencies as much as possible. However, I do not want to give up that which makes Wethersfield strong. Strong municipal finances. Strong services for leaf pickup, garbage, parks, and of course education. A healthy infrastructure is another key element to a strong Wethersfield.
Municipal taxation is not as cut and dry as taxes or spending, there are so many other implications that effect tax rates such as assessments, state and federal income, grant offsets, general fund allocations, revaluations, permits, and investments.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I have always said this since my first day. I love Wethersfield. I have pride in our people and our government. I want to help make Wethersfield the best it can be, pure and simple. If elected, this will be my fourth term.
Aside from my economics and law degrees, I have the experience of six budgets and countless hours working on environmental, energy, and public works projects. Together, we have formed successful public-private partnerships, which have transformed this Town for the better. The dog park, Keene Center, and Mikey's place to name a few.
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
There have been many. Most recently The Green Summits have opened our eyes to many new possibilities. The energy committee developed a comprehensive plan to move Wethersfield forward with a vision for 30 years from now. We significantly reduced the costs of energy the Town uses, thereby saving taxpayers money. We continue to implement new energy savings and have many new plans to come. We successfully worked with the WCC to fix flooding problems occurring in the Griswoldville area. Of course, most recently we are ready to acquire the Wilkus farm for preservation.
Donna Hemmann (R)
Employer: Aetna Inc.
Education (high school and college): Weth High School- grad 1972. Massachuseetts General Hospital School of Nursing 1976; St. Joseph College, West Hartford, BSN 1993; Currently enrolled University of Phoenix- MBA/PA- 23 credits
Civic and professional associations: former member Wethersfield Rocky Hill Professional Nurses Assoc.; Wethersfield-Rocky Hill Elks Lodge # 2308- First woman Exalted Ruler in the Lodge (2004-05), past Secretary, current Trustee
Political experience: Town Council - 2001-2005; 2007-2009: Board of Education 8 years, one as chairperson.
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
Keeping the town affordable for young families and our older citizens. Taxes cannot keep rising at the rate they have been.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Determine the focus for the businesses that the town wishes to attract. Market to them, create incentives, invite them to the town.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
Tourism is a great asset, however it will not sustain the town by itself. Grassroots involvement is key to any decision making. Council cannot set a plan without getting input. Wethersfield does not have a clear downtown area. The town needs to make sure it has a thoughtful approach to all areas of town.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
Unfortunately, tax hikes are not always possible to avoid, however, we need to make better efforts at reducing spending, as residents cannot continue to absorb continuous tax hikes.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I am running because I am interested in being involved in the town, and giving back. I have had 8 yrs experience on the Board of Education, and have served 6 years on the Council. I understand the issues and the direction that we need to take.
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
My ability to listen, do research and make thoughtful comments. I am not afraid to take a difficult stand.
Mike Hurley (R)
Employer: Travelers Insurance Co.
Education (high school and college: Wethersfield High School
University of CT - Degree in Business Administration
Civic and professional associations:
Certified Public Accountant, Youth Sports Coach, Chairman of Wethersfield's Hartford St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
The greatest challenge facing Wethersfield is the lack of economic development which in turn results in the small commercial tax base that our town currently has. I do not pretend to have an easy answer to these problems but the current majority on the council has had long enough to try and solve these problems with little progress and it is time for new faces and new ideas. A new Council majority is what this town needs to come up with some creative solutions.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
It is more than just attracting businesses to town; we also need to retain the businesses that we currently have. We need to become a business friendly town that listens to the concerns of our business community. We have two major routes through our town in need of some creative development solutions along with a great historic district that brings people into our town from all over the country. We need to capitalize on these areas.
To attract residents to town we need a realistic plan to make our school system the best it can be. It is no secret that strong schools is one of the biggest incentives for a growing family to choose our town. We need to stop throwing money into administration and put money into our classrooms. While our schools are good, they are falling behind our surrounding communities.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
I am a big proponent of the citizens of Wethersfield having a say in what happens in their town. We should be in touch with their concerns by informally polling people and get away from having a few vocal citizens impeding development.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
I would support a reduction in spending before increasing taxes. We should enlist the help of people who work for the town and give incentives to employees who help identify ways of reducing costs and cutting wasteful spending. Spending $26,000 on a fence between the Middle School and Public Library is one of the items I would consider wasteful spending.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
My wife and I have lived in Wethersfield all our lives and chose to remain in town because we love Wethersfield. I am running for the simple reason that I want to give back to the town and I want Wethersfield to continue to be a great place to live. I have four children and want to see them prosper in the same town that I grew up in. I am a Certified Public Accountant and believe my financial background can help the town get back on the right track.
Jeffrey R. Kotkin (D)
Employer: Northeast Utilities (Vice President-Investor Relations)
Education (high school and college): BA, History, Yale University, 1978; High School: Hall High School, West Hartford, 1974
Civic and professional associations: Former Vice President (12 years), Wethersfield Little League; Member, Wethersfield Democratic Town Committee
Political: Two terms in present office (council) - Member, Economic Development and Improvement Commission; Webb and Silas Deane Building Committees; Zoning Board of Appeals; Human Rights Commission
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
There's no question our greatest challenge is to fund both a strong school system and comprehensive town services while keeping property taxes manageable. Over the four years I have been on the Town Council, the increase in our grand list has been microscopic, other than through revaluation. This has meant that we have needed to depend on property tax increases and higher state revenue to balance our budget. Given the state's current budget situation I think the $8+ million of state revenue we receive annually is unlikely to increase. The town's budget setting process will become more challenging each year as we balance the increasing cost of town services with residents' ability to pay, which I think is quite stretched right now. This dilemma underscores the need for economic development, so that underutilized commercial property can be upgraded, providing the town with more jobs and property tax revenue.
I think it is also the place where my skills are best put to use on behalf of residents. As a finance professional, I have identified and helped implement hundreds of thousands of dollars of savings each year I have been on the council. These have come primarily from reducing the town's interest, insurance and energy costs.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
For young families, the key draw will be the town's school system. I believe there are many reasonably priced homes in town that provide prospective homebuyers with good value and a pathway to our high quality education system. For our more elderly residents, we need to ensure that they can remain in town, either by living in their existing homes or by ensuring that there are quality alternatives if they want to downsize. While walking door-to-door this fall during the political campaign, I am surprised by the number of our senior citizens who are not aware of the property tax abatement program we currently offer. We need to ensure that those who are having a difficult time paying their bills are aware of the tax relief we currently offer. They should contact the assessor's office for information.
As for businesses, Wethersfield offers a fantastic location with two major highways connecting us north to Hartford and south toward New Haven. The Town Council needs to be sure that town hall does all it can to accommodate new businesses and help them through the permitting process. Also, hundreds of small businesses owners live in town. I would like to see a program that offers inducements to these residents to bring their businesses to Wethersfield.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
I think the town needs to focus on the major vacant properties in town. They would include the northwest corner of the intersection of Main and Church streets, which includes the Comstock Ferre site; the former Fun Zone and Weight Watchers buildings on the Silas Deane; and the former Northeast Utilities building on Cumberland. The town manager and his staff need to work with the owners of the properties to put together attractive marketing plans for those sites that are in harmony with the surrounding neighborhoods. In some cases, I think the town has been hurt by property owners who have unrealistic views of the value of their properties. I would like to see the state legislature give towns such as Wethersfield the ability to increase taxes on properties that have been vacant for more than two years.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
I wish it were so easy. In many years, we have to do both to balance the budget, which is not a good answer, but it's a realistic answer. Last year, we actually reduced the town budget by about $500,000 from $82.9 million in 2008-2009 to $82.4 million in 2009-2010. I don't think that had been done before, but many residents still saw their property taxes increase due to revaluation and declines in other revenue, such as interest income and conveyance tax income. We already have eliminated services and positions.
Frankly, due to our economic circumstances, I think there will be additional programs and positions that will be reduced in the coming years. We have just completed a comprehensive upgrade of the heavy equipment our Highway Department uses, so we can reduce that capital spending in the coming years. Energy costs have come down over the past year and we have locked into lower prices for multiple years. As we install more energy efficient equipment in our buildings, such as new boilers in Emerson-Williams, our energy usage will drop.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I am running for re-election as a Democrat to Town Council because I enjoy the volunteer work and because I believe I can make a difference. The Democratic slate that is running is quite diverse. We have people who run small businesses, attorneys, and teachers. It's a diverse group. My focus is on the financial side. My job is to act as the liaison between Northeast Utilities, a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company, and Wall Street. I have had that job for 16 years. I have been able to translate the experience I have gained in my profession into benefits for the town. Over the past four years, I have worked to lower our borrowing and our insurance costs. I have identified ways the town can invest its money to earn higher interest. I have helped implement long-term steps so we can better restrain the growth of our employee health care costs and to ensure that we have an adequate rainy day fund for emergencies, such as the June 26 tornado.
My wife Ginger and I moved to Wethersfield in 1980. Our three children received an excellent start to their education in a supportive community and are now thriving adults. My service on the Town Council is a way to pay Wethersfield back for the wonderful experience it has provided to my family.
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
Some of the highlights relate to the physical improvements in town. I coached in and helped run Wethersfield Little League from 1991 until 2004 and I was just thrilled when we opened the new field in Mill Woods last spring. I was also pleased when we opened the Dog Park and bocce courts in Mill Woods, opened the 9/11 Memorial Center, re-opened an expanded library, and opened the Stillman Building for our Board of Education offices. I was particularly heartened by the overwhelming support we received from residents in buying the Wilkus Farm property.
But perhaps the biggest highlight was the response by residents and town employees to the June 26 tornado. All over town, I saw neighbor helping neighbor and sometimes stranger helping stranger. I saw town employees spend long days, sometimes overnight, to help those in our town whose properties were devastated by the winds. I saw volunteer firefighters directing traffic around live power lines. During the evening of June 26 and the days afterward, we truly saw the positive elements of our town rise to the forefront and I couldn't be more pleased to be a part of it.
Stathis Manousos (R)
Employer: Central Parking System
Education (high school and college): Wethersfield High School ('84), B.A., Bowdoin College, M.B.A, University of Connecticut
Civic and professional associations: President, Wethersfield George D. Ritchie Soccer Club; Wethersfield Youth Soccer Coach; Vice President, Pine Acres Swim & Tennis Club; Board of Directors (Treasurer), Business For Downtown Hartford; Board of Commissioners, Hartford Business Improvement District
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
The greatest challenge is multi-faceted - How to simultaneously control property taxes and spending, increase our commercial tax base, and provide acceptable levels of services to residents and businesses. Wethersfield relies too heavily on residential property taxes (89 percent) in generating its revenues. There may not be easy solutions, but we cannot wait another ten years to figure it out. A new council majority, one made up of new faces and new ideas, needs to be given the opportunity to find some bold creative solutions.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Before we can attract new businesses, we need to work with the Chamber and our existing businesses to help find solutions to their current problems to the extent possible. If we cannot retain our existing businesses, how can we attract new business? Unfortunately, Wethersfield does not have a business-friendly reputation. We can improve this through targeted tax incentives for new businesses and through public/private development partnerships using tax and/or zoning incentives. Our biggest attraction is our historic district, which attracts people from all over. We need to leverage this asset to help us redevelop the Silas Deane Highway and the Berlin Turnpike, which have been neglected.
Depending upon which residential segment you are referring, prospective residents desire a strong school system, good services and quality of life, and reasonable property tax rates compared to neighboring towns. We need to either balance all those things or focus on the ones that are most important to us as a community - and do those extremely well.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
I am not familiar with the current "downtown development process" or if we even have one. Nonetheless, I would make sure that whatever process is in place (or needs to be developed) is an inclusive process that involves public input and scrutiny; that requires a careful analysis of the facts; and that results in rational decisions. Listen, Think, Act.
Whatever the process is, it must be consistent with an overall strategic development plan based on a demand analysis. The process is no good if it results in a project for which there is no demand.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
Reducing spending through operating efficiencies must be the solution right now. Residents and businesses have already suffered through enormously higher taxes and spending over the last 5 years (40+ percent increase). I believe people would be willing to move to Wethersfield and pay relatively higher taxes if they could see improvements to quality of life, the school system, and a business environment.
We have a very capable town staff whose assistance we need to help identify process improvements and to eliminate wasteful spending. I would support an incentive plan to town employees who can help us operate more efficiently and reduce operating costs. We need to tackle our current problems head on, together.
Spending $26,000 on a fence between the Middle School and the Public Library is a perfect example of wasteful spending, especially in these economic times.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I was born and raised in Wethersfield, a proud graduate of our public schools. I am married 15 years to Lisa (Ingriselli), who is a Town employee at Webb and on the PTO Board. We have two children (Christopher, 11 and Michael, 8) who attend Webb and who are active in town youth sports. My sister's family (Phyllis and Mike Zerbini) also lives in town; and I am fortunate to have my parents (Stavros and Stella) also living in town.
I am running because I have a vested interest, across constituencies, in making sure Wethersfield is the best it can be for generations to come. I am a political newcomer, and I believe new ideas, new faces and action are sorely needed to make Wethersfield great again.
My educational background and work experiences will help get us back on the right track. I have worked in a business management environment all my life. Managing budgets, operating efficiently, finance, strategic planning, contract administration, and customer service are all part of my daily routine. A proficiency in these areas is something I would expect from members of our town council, whether I am elected or not. At the end of the day, we residents are the customers, and we need to be confident that our town officials are fiscally responsible managing taxpayer dollars wisely and in the best interests of the Town, its residents and the business community.
Jim McAlister (R)
Employer: Travelers
Education (high school and college): Chaminade High School (Mineola, NY), BS in Mechanical Engineering (Manhattan College), MS in Computer Science (RPI), MBA in Finance (UCONN)
Civic and professional associations: Board member for WGDRSC (youth soccer), Volunteer Coach (youth soccer - 3 different teams), Certified Project Management Professional
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
The greatest challenge in Wethersfield is the slow but sure erosion of the lead we have enjoyed over other local towns in just about every aspect. The increase in property taxes, the loss of the business tax base, the loss of services to the seniors and the down economy has created a town that can not compete with surrounding alternatives any longer. Wethersfield has a long history of performance and excellence and we need to restore the pride.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
For Businesses - besides the obvious tax incentives, work with the Chamber of Commerce and make sure that the existing businesses in town have their voices heard and don't move out, work with the surrounding area new businesses and ask why they chose that location, better understand what our competition is offering.
For Residents - pull up the statistics that people typically look at when choosing to move to a town - and target 3 key statistics to improve in the next 1-2 years, develop a plan and measure the results. Another option is to offer some tax defrayment from any major improvements like an addition. The concept would be to allow people to make home improvements without having a tax implication - thereby encouraging upgrades and renovation - driving local business and update the housing inventory in the town.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
It all goes back to competition again. We are either looking to create a place for people of Wethersfield to gather (which is what we already have in place today) - or we are looking to attract people from surrounding towns to come visit and spend time and money. In the latter, we need to understand what attracts people - which means going out, interviewing people that visit the competition - West Hartford, Glastonbury as examples. Selection, atmosphere and ease of doing business are elements that drive people to a certain area. I would spend time on the streets in our surrounding areas asking people what drives them to that location, then translate that into a 5 year strategy with specific deliverables and execution parameters to get the job done. Having a committee that "talks" with people about renting out a vacant building is not an economic development committee - it's a realtor.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
I am one person elected to represent thousands. I would engage the public on any decisions and would lay out a thoughtful analysis of the pros and cons of reducing spending versus raising taxes. The issue in Wethersfield is that there is very little discretionary spend in our budget today. As a result, you need to be very careful on how that little discretionary money would be spent. For example, I would not spend $26,000 on a fence to fix a "problem" that has existed for 45 years with no real investigation of the problem or alternative solutions. I am referring to the fence between the library and middle school that the current council approved and refused to back down on until the local news was called in. Does that sound like they are listening?
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
Very simply put - I am running because I helped my sister look for a place to live 2 years ago and I could not recommend Wethersfield based on the statistics. We were beat in everything from school scores to services and programs to mill rates, etc. The last time I looked at our statistics was 10 years ago when I moved here. I was surprised to see how the town has slowly eroded compared to other options. Again - it all comes back to what our competition is offering and what choices our "customers" - in this case a perspective home buyer - has. I have always worked in the private sector for large companies that were successful because they never became content with their products and services. Process, controls and continuous improvement has been a core element of every job and experience I have had. Our town has been managed by the same majority for the past 10 years that have flexed the rules when they see fit, have fast tracked spending on frivolous projects and have executed without being complete and thoughtful in their approach. The common theme in all my answers above is - listen, think then act.
Paul F. Montinieri (D)
Employer: Owner: Kelly Freezer and Container
Education (high school and college): Wethersfield High School 1976; Saint Michael's College, Vermont 1980; Master of Education: University of Vermont 1982
Web site (if any): KellyFreezer.com
For incumbents: How many terms have you served in your present office: one full term; one half term
What other town offices have you held: Vice Chair, Economic Development and Improvement Commission; Commissioner, Tourism Commission. (I am currently serving as council liaison to both these committees.)
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
Maintaining quality services for our residents while adhering to a commitment to minimizing taxes. Supporting local businesses and attracting new businesses play are essential. Our lack of developable space to attract commercial ventures makes re-development a priority to help meet this challenge.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Maintaining the quality school system that we have within the attractive community we are fortunate to live in will be the surest method to attract families to our town. Businesses are interested in Wethersfield because of its proximity to Hartford and our demographic; however, we must continue the progress that we have made enhancing the Silas Deane Highway as an attractive business center.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
The façade program has been a critical component to improving SDH's appearance and attractiveness to businesses. To retain and attract businesses in the Historic District, while preserving the residential appeal, we need to facilitate open dialogue and community participation IN ADVANCE of a specific business development plan. Greater interaction between stakeholders on this vital component of town business development should yield some viable plans for the Comstock property.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
I have a strong preference for containing spending and streamlining services without elimination where possible. Tax increases generally reflect grand list stagnation. Ultimately, if Town Council is successful in examining our services and striving for efficiency we will have a result that mirrors this year's effort: a unanimous budget passage with a near-zero percent increase in spending.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I seek to continue my role on the council because we have made tremendous progress in the past few years with roads, facilities, and services along with a conscientious examination of cost and services. Our town faces many challenges, and as a long time resident I am committed to supporting the community where I have raised my daughters. I will continue to promote Wethersfield as an outstanding place to live, raise a family and do business. My common sense, business acumen, and bi-partisan spirit are a blend of skills which will serve the town well. I have received an amazing amount of support from my peers on council and residents in general with respect to my contributions thus far. As long as I believe that my efforts are contributing positively to the towns' expectations, I will work to provide the very best leadership I can on behalf of our community.
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
This past years budget, which reflects reduced spending, represents the very best that government can offer: bipartisan support for a process that reflects a roll-up-your-sleeves approach to finding solutions. In this regard we are indebted to every town and board of education employee who agreed to furlough days in order to avoid layoffs and ease the tax burden in this tough economy. I am confident that residents who examine my approach to leadership will see my commitment to bi-partisanship, along with energetic and intelligent decision making. I also feel strongly that the current Democratic majority has succeeded in delivering what we promised: address the many challenges we face competently, thoughtfully and responsibly. The Wilkus Farm acquisition is an example: our leadership reached out to our community on the issue of open space, received mandate for acquisition at referendum, and successfully negotiated this purchase despite opposition. Our leadership is still working every day to deliver on this promise. I believe our residents respect common sense leadership without the need for political theater, and that, along with a reasonable dose of humor, goes a long way toward good government.
Gerri Roberts (D)
Employer Attorney - retired from the State of Connecticut where I worked in the Department of Economic Development, the State Police Department, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the Department of Developmental Services (formerly known as the Department of Mental Retardation)
Education: Juris Doctor, Western New England College School of Law - 1982; Master's Degree in Public Administration, University of Hartford, 1978 (Concentration in Personnel and Labor Relations); Bachelor of Arts, Saint Joseph College, 1972 (Major in History and Political Science); Mount Saint Joseph Academy, West Hartford, CT, 1968;
Civic and Professional Association: Member of the Board of Directors of The Hundred Club of Connecticut, Former Secretary and Member of the Board of Directors, Wethersfield Historical Society; Former Chairperson and Commissioner of the Connecticut Permanent; Commission on the Status of Women - 1984 to 1996; Former Chair, Connecticut Chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus; Former Vice Chair, Connecticut Women Veterans' Task Force; ember, Chief Justice's Task Force on Gender, Justice and the Courts (Chair of the Women and Violence Subcommittee); * Member, Church of the Incarnation; Member, Irish American Home Society; 2009 Wethersfield Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick's Day Parade; * President, Wethersfield Chapter 1222 of AARP
Political experience: Wethersfield Town Council - 2007 to present; 1994 to 1999 (Shared Services Committee - Chairperson, Public Safety Committee - Chairperson, Budget Committee, Memorial Day Parade Committee, Senior Citizen Advisory Committee - Council Liaison); Wethersfield Board of Education - 2000 to 2007 -two terms as Chairperson and two terms as Vice-Chairperson; Former Chairperson and member of the Planning and Zoning Commission; Former member - Inland, Wetlands and Watercourses Commission; Former member - Board of Tax Review; Former member - Board of Ethics
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
I believe that the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield is preserving the character and quality of life in town while at the same time providing necessary services in a cost effective manner. Celebrating the town's 375th anniversary, has given us a chance to reflect on Wethersfield's proud history and traditions. It also gives us an opportunity to think about what makes this town special and what we want it to look like in the future. This year we have had to make some tough decisions regarding the services provided to residents and whether or not we can continue to afford them. Balancing the needs of residents with their ability to pay for town services continues to be a challenge during these difficult economic times. I believe I have the background and experience necessary to meet these challenges.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
New businesses and residents will be attracted to town if they feel that Wethersfield is a good fit for them. To attract new businesses, we have to think outside the box. Jeff Bridges, the new Town Manager, has a special expertise and interest in economic development. Working in conjunction with the manager, the Council needs to develop creative ways to get businesses into town. The current program which helps businesses improve their facades has been extremely successful in making the businesses more noticeable while also improving their "curb appeal". A variety of other types of incentives needs to be discussed and, where appropriate, implemented. New residents will be attracted to town by the continued improvement of our school system, the services provided, the quality of life and reasonable taxes. New businesses on the grand list will reduce the residential tax burden which will attract more new residents to town.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
Improving the downtown development needs to be a collaborative process between town government and the business community. The redevelopment agency has laid the groundwork for identifying and prioritizing key properties in town. Working with the new Town Manager and other town staff, property owners need to understand the town's commitment to attracting new businesses and retaining the ones that are currently in town. New software will soon be available which will allow much of the permitting processes to be done online, thus reducing time and costs to potential developers. Other ways to streamline approvals and reduce duplication need to be developed. Utilizing other partners, such as the Wethersfield Chamber of Commerce, in attracting new businesses to town needs to be strengthened. Public participation is also a key part of downtown development. Working together, new ways to plan for and implement downtown development will be created.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
The real question is not raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget but rather how to balance the needs of the town with resources available to fund town services. Advocating for a percentage cap on future tax increases sounds great but, in my mind, is not appropriate. While services should be provided at the most cost-effective manner, true leadership means that critical issues or problems in town are objectively analyzed and effective solutions are proposed. For example, perhaps some services and equipment can be shared with surrounding towns. Sometimes solving these problems simply requires common sense while other times additional dollars might be needed to resolve them. Town leaders need to explain these options to the public and where additional funds are needed, have the guts to advocate for them. The voters want leaders who level with them and not just hide behind an arbitrary tax cap.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I am running for Town Council because I believe that my education, background and experience make me an effective member of the town's leadership team. I have served on a variety of boards and commissions, both on the town and state level. I have served both as the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Board of Education. I have extensive experience in public sector labor law and human resources, which is useful because personnel costs are the majority of the budget. Additionally, I believe that town government should be bipartisan - once the election is over, all elected members of the Council need to work together to govern effectively. I am willing to listen to the needs and concerns of the residents as well as to their suggestions for improving Wethersfield. Finally, I have common sense and a sense of humor - both of which are often missing in government!
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
The highlights of my time on Council are the purchase of the Wilkus Farm and lowering the town budget by $500,000 while still maintaining necessary education, public safety and senior services. Preserving open space for future generations is a priority. The Wilkus Farm purchase will allow future enjoyment of open space. The re-accreditation of the Police Department shows their continued excellence in keeping the town and its residents safe. The Fire Department's new ladder truck ensures that town residents are getting great service while, at the same time, our volunteer firefighters are responding in safe equipment. Services to seniors have been maintained, especially in the critical area of transportation. Although the next few years will still be challenging, I believe that I have the knowledge and needed skills to continue serving effectively on the Town Council. I would appreciate your support for my re-election on Nov. 3.
Martin H. Walsh (D)
Employer: Glastonbury Board of Education
Education (high school and college): Georgetown University Law Center, Washington D.C.-J.D.; Lyndon State College, Lyndonville, VT-B.A.
; North Country Union High School, Newport, VT-Diploma
Military service: Military Policeman, United States Army 1978-1981
Civic and professional associations: Connecticut Education Association, U.N.I.C.O. (application pending)
Political experience: Two Terms on Town Council (2005-2009); Board of Education (2003-2005)
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
Our greatest short-term challenge is to continue to provide core constituent services at a reasonable cost in an extremely tough economic climate. In the long term we must reinvigorate our commercial corridors, work to preserve and promote our history, protect existing open space and maintain excellence in our public schools.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Many potential residents are already attracted to Wethersfield because of the reputation of our school system. Our central location and quiet suburban atmosphere are added draws. New businesses are a different story. We will have to continue to work diligently to improve the appearance and layout of our commercial corridors in order to be successful in this area. We have had some success. The new Hartford Hospital building, new restaurants and façade improvements to existing businesses as a result of Small Town Economic Assistance Grants are steps in the right direction, but much more needs to be done to make our town truly attractive to new businesses.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
We need to market our history and the historic district along with commercial development on the Silas Deane and Berlin Turnpike. Success in attracting visitors to our historical sites will help to encourage new businesses to locate not only in the historic district but elsewhere in town as well. We will also have to extend funding authority to the town if we want a real say in the types of business that come in. I have heard many complaints about some businesses that have opened here. "How could you let that store go in?" The truth is that the town has little to say about transactions of private property. We would have a much better chance of procuring the types of business we're interested in if property owners had an incentive to deal with us. For example, we could help with funding for redevelopment plans or clean up costs or to market property for a specific use. The bottom line is if we want to have a say, we need to be able to provide assistance.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
As I stated earlier, this is a very tough economic climate and people are hurting. Thanks to our public employees (Town and B.O.E.) we were able to reduce spending by half a percentage point last year. The Democratic team intends to hold the line on taxes over the next term as well. If we are returned to office, we will continue to look at core services and cut where we can. What we want to avoid, however, is putting off essential maintenance and upkeep that will ultimately cost much more in the long run. This happened in Wethersfield during the late 90's and early 00's and it took time and tax increases to remedy the damage.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I am running because I believe that I share with the rest of the Democratic team a positive and attainable vision for the future of our community and I can effectively contribute to making that vision a reality. I have worked in the public, private and military sectors and held positions in management and labor. I am an effective communicator and work well with people. Lastly, I love Wethersfield, my adopted hometown, the place where my wife grew up and her parents still live and that my children have always called home.
What do you consider the highlights of your time in office so far?
Securing funds to procure open space and using those funds to purchase land adjoining Mill Woods Park and of course the Wilkus Farm. Serving on the 375th Anniversary Committee and working together to produce a memorable celebration for Connecticut's "Most Auncient Towne". Serving as a member of the Preserve America Steering Committee in order to adopt a master plan for Historic Wethersfield. As liaison to the Wethersfield Historical Society and chair of the Infrastructure Committee I helped negotiate new, long-term leases, which will preserve many of our cherished historic structures. I also support the idea of having a community conversation in the near future to see if we can establish a shared vision of what we would like Wethersfield to be for our 400th anniversary, and actively working to make that vision a reality. If any community can do it, we can!
Michael Zaleski (D)
Employer: Hartford Business Improvement District
Education (high school and college): Conard High School, West Hartford, CT 1989; Providence College, B.A., Political Science, 1993; University of Connecticut, MA, Public Affairs, 1996
Civic and professional associations: Wethersfield Redevelopment Agency, Member; Hartford Chamber of Commerce, Board Member; Upper Albany Main Street, Inc., Board Member; Farmington Avenue Alliance, Board Member; Farmington Asylum Business District, Board Member; TheaterWorks, Downtown Hartford, Chairman, Board of Directors
What is the greatest challenge facing Wethersfield?
The greatest challenge facing Wethersfield is appropriate growth of the town's taxable Grand List. Our town is too reliant on residential properties to generate its tax revenue. Last year, significantly more than almost 85% of the tax burden in town was borne by residential property owners. The balance came from the commercial tax base. We can't continue to rely on the residential tax payer to balance the town's budget. The Town needs to be aggressive about economic development and the redevelopment of key underperforming commercial properties.
How would you attract new businesses and residents to town?
Redevelopment of underperforming, underutilized commercial parcels is imperative if the town is going to see an increase its Grand List. The town is currently 'built out'. There are no large swaths of land that can be developed as an office park. We need to focus on the reuse of privately owned commercial parcels on the Silas Deane Highway and the Berlin Turnpike that have for many years sat vacant. As a member of the Redevelopment Agency for the past several years, I have worked with the other Agency members to establish a dialogue with private property owners in an effort to encourage redevelopment of their properties. The Town must play a role in helping these private property owners redevelop their properties and enhance their commercial viability.
How would you improve the downtown development process?
The Town has made significant strides towards implementing many of the elements of the Silas Deane Master Plan. This plan calls for enhanced streetscapes, better traffic flow and encourages mixed use development. The Town's façade improvement program has been very successful and should be expanded. The Town should be aggressive about marketing economic development opportunities to potential local and national developers and commercial tenants. Most towns the size of Wethersfield have at least one staff member specifically dedicated to economic development. In Wethersfield, we have asked the Town Planner to double as our economic development representative. If we are to be serious about economic development, we need to have someone solely focused on growing the Town's commercial tax base and held accountable for results.
Would you support raising taxes or reducing spending to balance the budget?
Balancing the Town's budget should not just be a choice between raising taxes and reducing spending. Focused attention to increasing the Grand List, continuing to look for efficiencies in town government and Board of Education operations and working regionally with other towns to achieve cost savings are three ways that the Town can help balance the budget. While simply raising taxes or cutting programs and services is the easiest way to balance a budget, we should expect more from our elected public officials.
Why are you running, and what are your qualifications for the office you seek?
I am running for Town Council because I believe I can help lead the town through these challenging economic times. My formal education, which includes a Master's Degree in Public Affairs, has taught me the municipal budgeting skills necessary to be an effective Council person. I have worked for and with several towns during the course of my professional career.
I have significant experience in economic development, working with private property owners and private business owners and developing and managing community improvement programs. I believe my skills and experience will be an asset to the Town and I am hopeful I get the opportunity to serve.
