Enfield Patch Questions the Candidates: Town Council District 2

Earlier this month, Enfield Patch sent a series of questions to all 25 candidates on the ballot for the Enfield Town Council and Board of Education. Beginning last Friday and continuing today through this Friday, the responses from the candidates will be published.

Today will feature comments from incumbent Democrat William “Red” Edgar, who is running unopposed for Town Council in District 2.

Question 1: What ideas do you have to stimulate business growth in Enfield, particularly in the re-use of the town’s numerous empty commercial properties?

Edgar: We need to make our town more attractive to businesses and we need to make sure that the people and the businesses that we have in Enfield stay in Enfield. I would like to visit the current businesses in Enfield and find out how we are doing and find out if we can better serve them. I also think the rail station will help to bring in more businesses and will be an economic boost to our town.

Question 2: There has been considerable talk about bringing a casino to town. Do you feel a casino would be good or bad for the town, and why?

Edgar: I have been listening to the public and they don’t seem to want one but at the same time I also don’t want to say no until I know if there are any benefits to Enfield. Such as jobs for the trades, an increase in economic benefits to the existing business and to the town. I would rather learn more first before making a decision. I think that the citizens should want to know more too, you can always say no later and it would be a lengthy and public process but if you shut the door too early the town will be out.

Question 3: What do you feel is the biggest priority item for District 2, and if elected, what is your plan to deal with it?

Edgar: The most pressing issue for residents in District 2 is the economy and quality of life. Residents want to know what is happening with the train station and how it can improve our economy.

Question 4: Tell us as briefly as possible why District 2 residents should vote for you.

Edgar: I am a life-long resident of Enfield and I care about all of the people that live in our town. I want to continue to serve the community that I live in. I am very familiar with the laws and ordinances of Enfield. I have been on the Town Council for 18 years and I bring knowledge and experience to the council. I believe we need to improve our tax base by bringing money into the town to pay for things but through sources other than the town residents. I also want to Increase employment and educational opportunities for all residents.

Click here to see the official 2015 Enfield election ballot.

Related Stories:

Enfield Patch Questions the Candidates: Town Council At-large

Enfield Patch Questions the Candidates: Town Council District 1

Enfield Patch Questions the Candidates: Town Council District 4

Enfield Patch Questions the Candidates: Board of Education