Brookfield Candidate Profile: Mel Butow, First Selectman

BROOKFIELD, CT — The 2019 municipal election is heating up in Brookfield and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Brookfield Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Mel Butow is running for first selectman as a Republican. He has previously served on the Economic Development Commission, Planning Commission and as president of the Riverview at Brookfield HOA. Professionally, he has over 40 years of fiscal accountability and management experience.

The single most pressing issue facing our town/district is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The current administration's spending habits are out of control.

The current budget is riddled with debt. Residents feel taxes are too high.

Based on my experiences I will find ways to streamline expenses and accelerate paying down the debt.

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

The current First Selectman is only willing to fight affordable housing (8-30 g) by seeking a moratorium when the current one expires. My concern is what will happen after the moratorium expires. I will fight every future developer by using lawsuits and fees that will affect the bottom line. This will make the developer think twice about coming into Brookfield.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

The 4 corners project has been stalled for over 4 years. Tax abatements were given to the developer on the premise he will continue to build. These abatements were done for the betterment of the developer not Brookfield Residents. Deadlines have passed. I would have rescinded the tax abatements and only issue new ones for the future projects.

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

During my 40 years of work experience I have been able to streamline expenses, found ways to increase revenue, negotiated many contracts for services and wages. I was not afraid to make tough, unpopular decisions

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am diligent in any position or task I undertake. If a question is asked of me and I don’t know the answer, I will find it and get back to the person.

I respect everyone. I have a quiet demeanor, but make no mistake that I will not be taken advantage of, because I have a bull dog mentality.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

A prayer: "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to accept the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference"