Branford Election 2021: Linda Erlanger Running For RTM District 3

BRANFORD, CT — The state Municipal Election is Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns.

Democrat Linda Erlanger, 65, is running for Branford RTM Representative, 3rd District in Branford.

Occupation: Part-time Consultant

Family: I live in Branford with my wife, Margret and our corgi, Mabel.

Experience: Branford RTM Representative and 3rd District

Family in government: No

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

Keeping our mill rate below 30, which allows for young families, seniors and all other Branford residents to have an affordably comfortable quality of life in our community. I believe I have made sound fiscal voting decisions during my first-term on the RTM, and am sensitive to how each budgetary request will impact our tax rate. As well, I believe that Branford's economic development is a key area of focus for our town, and bringing in new small businesses while continuing to support our existing businesses here in town which assists in ensuring a robust tax base.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I am a first-term incumbent RTM Representative and have learned so much about how Branford operates, especially legislatively. I believe that I have added insight to discussions in my own caucus, as well as to my colleagues across the aisle. I am open-minded, appreciative of the differences in our political dialogue, and sensitive and responsive to the constituents in my district and continually work to enhance the quality of life for both the district and the entire Branford community.

Accomplishments:

I am a licensed dentist, and my career has spanned a variety of work experience, including dental practice, health care plan management, project leadership and consulting. Many of the project teams I have led have included people from different company departments who had competing interests, and it was my job to listen to everyone's perspective, and promote good discussion and work with the team to come to agreement on how to achieve our project objectives and resolve issues that would result in the best outcomes for our client.

Other issues:

Environmental concerns, especially rising sea levels and storm surges that impact our coastal community; and Public safety, with a focus on traffic-calming, the public obeying traffic signs, and improving the condition of our sidewalks and the addition of bike lanes throughout the town

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I am thoughtful, energetic, smart, responsible and solutions-focused, and believe that my work ethic and character will continue to be an asset as a 3rd District RTM Representative.