Patch Candidate Profile: Richard Jannelli, Danbury Board Of Education

DANBURY, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Danbury 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.

Richard Jannelli, 82, is running for a two-year seat on the Danbury Board of Education as a Democrat. He is a retired CFO, and is a graduate of the Baruch school of Business, City College of New York.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Board of education, Danbury

First, why are you seeking this office?

Based on my previous 10 years of experience and financial background and management ability I can make a contribution.

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

Overcrowding in schools, work to create long term plan to address

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

Experience and background

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

I will not criticize any one, however the public knows the issues and what needs to be done, therefore, they must decide

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

Financial reporting, absentee rate, air quality, details on opening the Academy and its date and budget and revenue source and amount

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

Made contributions to financial reporting and budgets. Chair of finance and community relations committee. Raised $200,000 of non public money to build ADA playground at Pembroke School because city couldn't afford. Therefore, motivated and self starter.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Stay out of politics

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

I will continue to work with everyone, parents, students, board members and staff to make our district grow.