Patch Candidate Profile: Collin Colburn, RTM District 8

FAIRFIELD, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Fairfield will be on the ballot, including Board of Selectman, Board of Education, Board of Finance, RTM and others.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 7, Fairfield Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on various topics of importance in town.

Patch will post these candidate profiles over the next few weeks, so check back often to see the latest.

Name

Collin Colburn

How old will you be as of Election Day?

33

What city or town do you live in?

Fairfield

What office are you seeking?

RTM District 8

If you are running in a district, you can specify the district here.

RTM District 8

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican

Education.

Bachelor of Arts, Economics, The Catholic University Of America

What is your occupation?

Sales Executive in the Market Research industry, 10 years

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Wife and son (2 years old)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

N/A

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

No

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I have been inspired by the level of transparency and trust Brenda Kupchick has brought to our town government during her years as First Selectwoman. It has made me want to lean in and be a part of getting more done for our town in a collaborative and innovative way. And I think a position on the RTM is a great way to represent the voices of my neighbors while also learning the ins and outs of our town government.

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

Affordability and sustainable growth of Fairfield

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

I grew up in Fairfield and have lived here the vast majority of my life. I've seen lots of change - good and bad - and am passionate about sustainably and responsibly growing our town. I've spent almost 2 years on the Economic Development Commission in town and have learned a lot about the potential Fairfield has from an economic perspective as well as challenges we face in growing the town's commercial tax base. I plan to bring those experiences and ideas to the RTM. And I'm excited to contribute as a voice for how Fairfield can continue to flourish while not forgetting about our residents who have built this town over many decades.

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

I look forward to speaking with my fellow residents about any and all concerns they have. I want Fairfielders to feel like they have a say when it comes to the way in which the town operates - because they do. And one of the issues I plan to work on, if elected to RTM, is how we can get more residents involved in the future of our town. One of the ways we can do that is by ending partisan bickering which results in inaction and erodes trust with our residents.

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

I've worked with many midsize and enterprise companies advising them on marketing and technology strategy. I understand how businesses think and operate. And one of the big priorities we have as a town is to increase our commercial tax base. I'd like to use that knowledge and accomplishments to help make our town attractive as possible for businesses to come here and grow.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Always make sure you are listening more than you are speaking.

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

I love Fairfield. My family has resided in town for over 70 years. I believe in sustainable and responsible growth for our town - which means we have an eye towards keeping our town's charm and history while finding ways to iteratively improve.