Greenwich 2023 Election Profile: Lucia Jansen For BET

GREENWICH, CT — Election Day on Nov. 7 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in Greenwich.

Patch reached out to candidates for local office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing the town.

Name

Lucia Jansen

What city or town do you live in?

Greenwich

What office are you seeking?

Board of Estimate & Taxation

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican

Education.

MBA University of Connecticut, BA University of Texas

What is your occupation?

Retired Technology Executive, 15 year career

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

Husband of 38 years, one college aged daughter

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

For the past 18 years, I've had the privilege of serving our community in various elected offices and engaging in meaningful community service work. My tenure includes a dedicated 18-year commitment to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), during which I've spent a decade on the Budget Overview Committee, and eight years as its Chair, guiding the town's fiscal considerations and other matters with diligence. Within the RTM, I've also contributed my expertise to the Labor Contracts Committee for eight years and the Parks and Recreation Committee for six years.

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?

Having resided in Greenwich for over three decades alongside my husband and daughter, my decision to run for the BET stems from an unwavering dedication to safeguarding the fiscal well-being and stability of our beloved community. My qualification extends beyond my 18 years serving on the RTM and various community non-profit boards. I also bring more than 15 years of leadership experience as a corporate technology executive, consistently driving significant financial success, and delivering exceptional business value for Fortune 500 companies. I've consistently introduced discipline and structure to my decision-making processes. My goal, upon assuming a role on the BET, is to hit the ground running and proactively address the numerous challenges that lie ahead, further solidifying the prosperity of our beloved community.

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

The Economy. Throughout my campaign and in my interactions with residents across our entire town, one critical issue consistently stands out as paramount: the pervasive anxiety and genuine concern surrounding our economy. The specter of inflation has cast its shadow across all strata of our diverse population, affecting everyone from young families to our valued senior citizens. It's not just about higher property taxes and town fees; it's about the broader financial strain felt by our community members as they grapple with higher grocery prices, surging gas pump costs, increased commuter train expenses, rising medical bills, and the weight of accumulating credit card debt, all of which are significantly impacting their lives. Addressing these economic challenges head-on is the cornerstone of my campaign, as I am dedicated to advocating for practical and sustainable solutions that will alleviate the financial burden on our residents and promote a more secure economic future for Greenwich.

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

Choosing to back the Republican BET is a wise choice for voters who prioritize fiscal responsibility, forward-thinking financial management, and the promise of ongoing economic prosperity. Over the past century, under Republican leadership, the BET has played a pivotal role in transforming our Town into a thriving community of 65,000 residents, offering one of the highest qualities of life in the nation. This remarkable achievement includes our renowned schools, which provide top-notch education, ensuring a bright future for our children. Greenwich boasts one of the safest communities in the country, well-maintained roads and infrastructure that enhance our daily lives, and numerous well-kept parks and recreational spaces for everyone to enjoy—all while working diligently to keep the tax burden on our residents as low as possible.

The Republican-led BET has consistently implemented a disciplined and methodical approach to managing public finances, guaranteeing that taxpayer funds are used with the utmost efficiency and transparency. By doing so, the BET Republicans have not only ensured the well-being of our current residents but also securing a prosperous future for our Town. A vote for the Republican Party on the BET continues this legacy of responsible governance and maintain our Town's exceptional quality of life. Together, we can build on our achievements and work towards an even brighter future.

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

Affordable Housing. I am committed to promoting local zoning policies that can make affordable housing accessible to our residents. Affordable housing is not just a matter of economic security; it's a fundamental building block of a strong community. By reducing regulatory barriers, encouraging private-sector investment, and fostering innovation in housing solutions, we can ensure that hardworking Greenwich residents have the chance to achieve the dream of homeownership. Let's empower individuals and families to take control of their futures and create stable, prosperous neighborhoods through sensible, approaches to affordable housing."

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

Throughout my tenure on the RTM, I have achieved numerous legislative victories, successfully advocating for responsible management of operating and capital budgets, fair labor contracts, and the implementation of essential ordinances. These accomplishments highlight my ability to navigate complex financial matters, make sound decisions that benefit our community, and my ability to foster positive and collaborative relationships.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

"If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it” from former CEO, Andy Grove, of Intel Corporation.

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

I want voters to know that my commitment to public service is rooted in a deep passion for making our Town a better place for everyone. On a personal level, as a second generation American of native-born Colombian parents, I come from a diverse background that has taught me the importance of inclusivity and empathy. I believe that our differences make us stronger, and I am dedicated to representing and working for all members of our community, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances.