Veronica Monahan Running For Fairfield RTM District 1

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.

Republican Veronica Monahan, 50, is running for RTM Representative - District 1 in Fairfield.

Occupation: Residential Real Estate Sales

Family: Married to husband Matt, a Fairfield University grad, for 25 years. We have three children: Madelyn (age 22), Caroline (age 21), Kelley (age 15).

Experience: Current RTM District 1 Representative

Family in government: No

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

Greenfield Hill (District 1) is stronger than ever and I want to ensure that our property taxes remain as low as possible here, and I will continue to vote for initiatives that Brenda Kupchik and her team propose that are reinventing our town government by making it more modern, accountable, and efficient and healthy. Corruption on the local level has to be eradicated and the town needs to be more affordable to keep seniors and the younger generations here. Smart commercial development and attracting more businesses to ease the tax burden is also integral to a vibrant future for our town.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I sell the town of Fairfield (and its neighboring towns) to new residents - it's not just homes - and have for over 17 years. As a result, I know the past and present issues, how our town government works, and I have an open mind and am bi-partisan in my views of town politics. Like most people, I just want good, smart, and ethical decisions to be made and taxpayer money to be spent on our schools and initiatives that will benefit all citizens.

Accomplishments:

I think it's important for anyone running for a town position to have lived in town and in that district for a lengthy period of time before seeking an elected position. I have lived here and worked here in District 1 for 16 years (over 20 in Fairfield) and can honestly say I am aware of all of the issues — past and present — that are important to homeowners throughout the town and in my district. I have also been involved in the Health and Safety Committee, the Library Friend's Board, and and understand how our town government works and how to effect positive change here.

Other issues:

I want to ensure that our town continues to control our zoning — and not the state, that more group homes do not open in Greenfield Hill, that every initiative that is proposed and that passes is good for everyone, including those on a limited budget: seniors, the disabled, young adults, and and families just beginning their lives here. Our schools need to continue to be our foremost concern but we have so many other issues that also need our attention. We have to keep an eye on spending at all times.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

Morals and ethics are paramount to me. I got involved in town politics because I didn't want to just complain when I saw something I thought needed to be changed or addressed. We have seen a lot of bad behavior out of former town officials recently and I'm thrilled it's finally being eradicated by Brenda Kupchik. Being a part of the RTM allows me to have a voice and ask questions that I know need to be asked. Most people don't know that Brenda Kupchik needs our votes to have her initiatives passed and she has an uphill battle on most issues. I will continue to support her by voting for her smart proposals.