Patch Candidate Profile: Melissa Longo, RTM District 1

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

Melissa Longo

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 1

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

District 1

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican

Education.

Graduate of Fairfield High School, Dean College

What is your occupation?

I am currently a stay at home mom. Previous experience as a marketing assistant and marketing associate for 5 Star Financial Corporation, Luxury Private Retreats by Abercrombie and Kent. Former owner and operator of a small wellness business for 8 years.

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

Yes, Joe and I have 2 children ages 6 and 9

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

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

Currently serving on the RTM

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 am seeking to keep my seat in district 1 because I believe in common sense governing. Our town needs people who will ask important questions and represent our constituents and town as a whole. Responsible spending and investing in our town is crucial to keep our economy in Fairfield strong.

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

Fiscal responsibility, accountability from our elected officials, and over development are all pressing issues. I intend to continue to on the path I am currently on, voting and representing our community and prioritizing real needs rather than partaking in dramatic partisan theatrics.

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

I actually care about this town because I have lived here almost my entire life and my husband has owned his practice for over 20 years, and we chose to raise our children in Fairfield. I truly understand the responsibilities of being on this extremely important town body. I will always speak up for what is right for our town, even when those across the aisle make it extremely difficult. I will continue to be a reasonable forward thinking member of the RTM and not get sidetracked by partisan politics.

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

Concerns over the safety of Redding Road, conserving our land and using our resources responsibly. Making sure that our tax dollars are being spent wisely and not frivolously.

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

I have served on the RTM for 2 years, being a very devoted mother of 2 children, volunteering my time with numerous charities, and launching a small business are just some of my accomplishments.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Stand up for what is right and true, even if that means standing alone.

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

People can trust where I stand on important issues, and know that I do not quit.