Patch Candidate Profile: Diane M. LaPine, Danbury City Council

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

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

Real estate broker Diane M. LaPine, 64, is running for election to the Danbury City Council as a Democrat. She is a graduate of Danbury High School and the Computer Processing Institute, and attended WCSU. She has been married to Jim for 35 years, and the couple has two children and a 2-year-old granddaughter.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

No

Why are you seeking this office?

I'm running for City Council at Large because I've lived in Danbury for 58 years and I'd like to be involved in the future choices we make to improve the quality of life here for everyone and see Danbury progress to its highest potential.

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

Our taxes were raised anywhere from 10 to 20 percent, in some cases more and our current administration is advertising a "17 % Tax Cut for EVERY Danbury taxpayer". The mil rate was lowered but the taxes went up. What I intend to do about it is tell the truth.

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

I'm working very hard to earn the position. When I make a commitment to something, I show up, I do my homework and I come prepared. I listen to concerns and respond quickly. I do everything I can to solve problems and I'm extremely persistent.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

The residents of Danbury want the administration to listen and respond to their concerns and make the changes that the residents want to see.

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

I am knocking on doors and asking residents if they have any concerns. The things I hear most frequently are that the schools are overcrowded, the roads have been in poor condition for many years, the traffic is terrible, downtown needs a makeover and we need more affordable housing. There's a lot of work to do.

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

Being a Realtor in Danbury for 27 years, a past business owner and team leader, I've developed skills that make me a good listener and problem solver. I deal with the public and help them achieve their goals. As a 58 year resident, I know this city well.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

You can do anything you put your mind to

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

I'd like to ask the voters for their support. Danbury is a great place to live, we have an amazing location and we need a change in leadership to bring our city to the next level. Vote for Roberto Alves, Vote for Diane LaPine and Vote Row A!