Patch Candidate Profile: Keith Markey, RTM District 5

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

Keith Markey

How old will you be as of Election Day?

43

Does your campaign have a website? If so, include the URL here.

https://www.fairfieldrtc.com/2023-rtm-candidates

What city or town do you live in?

Fairfield

What office are you seeking?

RTM District 5

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

District 5

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican

Education.

Graduated High School at Poly Prep in Brooklyn, and achieved my undergraduate at Sacred Heart University

What is your occupation?

Talent Acquisition Professional

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

My wife, Brianne, is also a Sacred Heart alum, and we have two boys: Cooper (10) and Tyler (9).

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

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 hold a deep affection for our town, one that has persisted throughout the years. It is this affection that compelled us to return to Fairfield, where we have chosen to raise our family. Those who have had the pleasure of meeting me before may attest to my outspoken nature, driven by a heartfelt commitment to the safety of our community, the well-being of our children, as well as the enhancement of our town's infrastructure, particularly in the areas surrounding our parks and youth fields. These spaces not only promote a healthy lifestyle but also serve as focal points for community cohesion.

My decision to run for office is motivated by a sincere desire to have a meaningful presence at the decision-making table. I aim to represent the collective voice of our community, a voice that shares the same love for this town and the same aspiration for progress and the betterment of our community, both in the present and for generations to come.

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

I am dedicated to consistently advocating for our community in several key areas: addressing the issues of reckless driving and speeding within our town, ensuring the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, maintaining responsible fiscal stewardship to keep our taxes manageable while efficiently meeting our essential needs, and providing a compassionate and empathetic ear as we navigate the ongoing discussions concerning school redistricting.

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

Throughout my recollection, our district has faced an ongoing challenge in achieving balanced representation. It is crucial that we foster a diversity of thought that authentically mirrors the voices and perspectives of all our constituents, rather than solely representing one viewpoint.

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

Board Member/Coach, Fairfield Youth FootballCoach, Fairfield Youth Lacrosse

Board Member and Founding Member, Fairfield Athletic Foundation

PTA Member, Stratfield School

Volunteer, St. Baldrick’s Foundation

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best way to predict your future is to create it.

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

I believe that we can collectively discover common ground, recognizing that our shared priorities lie in the well-being of our town, our families, and our community. Let us direct our attention towards these fundamental concerns and diminish our focus on less significant matters.