Patch Candidate Profile: Erin Barthel, Avon Town Council

AVON, CT — Avon Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Avon resident Erin Barthel is running for the Avon Town Council as a Democrat.

The following is Barthel's questionnaire sent to Patch:

Name

Erin Barthel

How old will you be as of Election Day?

41

Does your campaign have a website? If so, include the URL here.

https://avondems.org

What city or town do you live in?

Avon, CT

What office are you seeking?

Town Council

Please give us your party affiliation.

Democrat

Education

MD

What is your occupation?

Physician, 16 years

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Yes- husband and 3 children

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

No

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

A seat on the town council will allow me to make decisions that foster community, support mental health initiatives and prevent gun violence.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is __, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I have listened to many residents and there is not just one single pressing issue. However, I believe that mental well-being and connectedness are important at this time. During the pandemic, many people were isolated in their own homes. I want people to come out of their homes, join in community events, meet new people, find common interests, and feel connected to others. I plan on addressing this issue by supporting our recreation and parks department and library, listening to resident ideas, collecting suggestions through our recreation master plan survey, and sharing resources provided by our Farmington Valley Health District with the schools and town.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

As a physician, I have experience listening to questions and concerns. Additionally, I have worked with the Avon Library and Recreation and Parks Department to develop programs for both children and adults.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

As a volunteer with Moms Demand Action, gun safety is always a top priority of mine. I will continue to work with the police department and the community to promote firearm safe storage and responsible gun ownership.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Do your best and forget the rest.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?