Erin Lopez Running For Fairfield RTM District 2

FAIRFIELD, CT — It's election season in Fairfield, and Patch is here to help you get to know the candidates running for local office in 2021 before voters head to the polls Nov. 2.

Questionnaire responses appear as submitted by candidates.

Democrat Erin Lopez, 44, is running for Representative Town Meeting in Fairfield.

Occupation: Stay At Home Mother

Family: Married to Derek, with two kids

Experience: RTM 2016-2019

Family in government: No

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

Long-term, strategic financial planning that maintains the high quality of life we enjoy in Fairfield while keeping the town affordable for all residents, especially young families and senior citizens. As I did during my previous time on the RTM, and I plan to ask questions and hold our other elected officials accountable for the money they want to spend in town.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I dive into the information we're given and ask a lot of questions to make sure we're making smart decisions that benefit residents in our town.

Accomplishments:

I've been on the RTM in the past, and I was very involved in the North Stratfield PTA when my kids were there, including President, and and handling 40 kids in the drama program. I am experienced in handling the needs and requests of many different people and doing the work that benefits the community.

Other issues:

We need to fully fund our schools and which includes making sure the facilities are updated. We've seen how important the air quality in buildings is the last year and a half. We need to revamp the senior tax relief program to benefit more seniors so they can stay in their homes. We need to address climate issues in town. Rooster River is a massive undertaking that can't be pushed off any longer. Our coastline needs to be addressed as we see more storms that are more severe.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I care deeply about this town and want to help steer the town through strategic growth that continues to attract new residents to town and but also retain the people who want to live here.