Groton Candidate Profile: John Goodrich for Town Council

Groton, CT —Groton’s election season is heating up.

Groton Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

John Goodrich, 44, is a Republican running for election to the Town Council.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you'd be representing.

None

Education:

BA Art History Boston College (Cum Laude)

Occupation:

Automotive, 24 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

None

The single most pressing issue facing our town/district is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Returning Groton to the vibrant economic community it was when I grew up here. This is important because this will provide jobs and a community where citizens can work, live and spend money in Groton. The citizens of Groton will benefit personally and economic development will grow the Grand list, helping keep property taxes under control and provide money to the town for needed town services. I intend to work with my fellow Town Councilors, get feedback from the citizens and work with economic development to bring economic vibrancy back to the town, without sacrificing our unique small town feel.

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

If elected this will be my first political office. I will bring the perspective of the everyday citizen and businessperson. I will not have any preconceived ideas, alliances, or agendas.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Transparency and accessibility to government. Ensuring the retired and elderly population of Groton can maintain a good quality of life and be able to retain their homes, specifically not having property tax force them out of their homes.

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

I have 19 years experience managing businesses and founding and running companies. These positions require me to work with others, and come up with solutions that work for all involved. Most importantly these positions require me to be a good listener and consider all sides before making a decision. I think these two skills are critical for a good town councilor.

The best advice ever shared with me was …

Same something kind to someone everyday, it costs nothing and only takes a second. For the other person it could last a lifetime...

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I feel I bring a unique perspective to Groton and the town council. What I mean by this is I was “born and raised” in Mystic, and my family can trace their roots in Connecticut back to colonial days. That being said I have lived in California for 24 years, moving back to Mystic, one year ago. I am coming home with new perspectives, experiences and ideas. This is not a temporary stop for me. I have come home permanently, as I am running for office and buying a home in Mystic (Groton). Another important thing to me is that the next council keep their commitments to the citizens of this town, specifically on the Noank Community Garden. This space should not be taken away from the residents.

Are you running for office in Groton? Contact Ellyn Santiago at ellyn.santiago@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Groton Patch.