Candidate Profile: Bruce Cornwell​, Bethel Board of Assessment Appeals

BETHEL, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Bethel and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Bethel Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Bruce Cornwell is running for re-election to the Bethel Board of Assessment Appeals as a Republican / Independent.

Education.

BS in Business Administration from Salem State Univ. Salem, MA.

What is your occupation?

Retired from Kraft Foodservice after 38 years. Currently a part-time driver at Meadow Ridge in Redding.

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

Married to Marlene, with two married sons, Adam and Alex.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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

Currently the Chairman of the Board of Assessment Appeals. I have served on this Board for 4 years. Prior election to the Board of Finance, and appointed to the Bethel Housing Authority.

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?

I would like to continue serving on the Board of Assessment Appeals as I have found it rewarding to help many of those citizens that have come forward with questions and issues with their homes, property and vehicles. This is a position that needs continuity in order to be successful. Everyone has a unique story, and a good listening ear is necessary.

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

Re-evaluation and the increasing home costs are a real concern. It is necessary for those taxpayers that feel that their taxes are out of line to state their case, and the Board is there to make a determination.

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

I have four years of experience in place.

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

I want all voters and taxpayers to be treated with respect.

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

I have served with several others on the Board of Assessment Appeals, and have learned from them, and gained enough experience working with the Tax Assessor and Town Hall to become Chairman. This responsibility is not taken lightly by me. I know what I have to do to earn their trust.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Do not make hasty decisions. Listen and learn first.

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

I have always had the Town of Bethel's best interests in mind.