Candidate Q&A: Bill Canny

Name: 

Bill Canny

Party, Position Seeking: 

Republican; Board of Finance

Background:

I was born and raised here in Canton.  I attended all of Canton's schools and then I went to college at Eastern Connecticut State University, where I earned a B.S. in Communications and Business Administration.

Family information:

I have been married for 7 years to Patty (Sarmuk) Canny and we have three children with a fourth on the way.  Our son Cam is 5; our son James is 3 1/2; and our daughter Helen is 2 1/2.  Patty was an 8th grade math teacher in Canton Middle School for 8 years, before taking some time off to care for our kids when our daughter was born.  She plans to go back to teaching within the school system at some point in the future.

Occupation:

I am a Sales Representative for Arbon Equipment Corporation out of Bloomfield.  My territory is Northern CT and I have been working with this same company for 14 years.

Political Experience:

I have been a member of the Republican Town Committee as well an alternate member of the Inland Wetland Water Course Committee in town and this is my first time running for office.

Other Relevant Experience, Community Service: 

Having been in sales for many years, I have realized the significance of the skill of listening.  It plays a large part in my ability to discover the needs of customers and it has helped me to become successful in my career.  Open communication is crucial and I use that same listening skill in many aspects of my life.  I will certainly then carry it fully to office if I am elected.  I know that by hearing the voices of the public and representing the priorities of the town, I will make the most informed decisions for the Board.

Why are you running for office? 

I have realized that this is not only the town I grew up in but now also the town I will remain in, with my children experiencing life here as well. My desire to help keep this town's tremendously strong reputation has catapulted my passion to get in on the decision-making process, namely in the financial arena.

What skills do you have that you could bring to the community?  

I would say that I bring a fresh perspective as a lifelong member of the community that has not only seen firsthand a lot of the positive changes throughout the years but also has the focus to help the town remain fiscally responsible and community-driven. 

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?

My focus would be to maintain the proper balance between keeping the town's financial responsibility and the need for appropriate town development.

Name something the town has done well over the past four years. 

The town has welcomed several businesses that have helped the community to thrive.  I welcome creative ways that will allow the town’s people to enjoy the high quality of life here while keeping our reasonable tax rate in check.

What is something the town could have done better during the past four years? 

I think it would be great to come up with ways of getting more people involved and active in attending meetings and helping with decision-making. I have a feeling there are some willing townspeople who have a lot of great things to share with all of the Boards.