Guilford Candidate Profile: Michael Ayles for Board of Finance

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

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

Michael Ayles, 51, is a Democrat running for reelection to the Board of Finance.

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:

Bachelor of Architecture (5 year degree program), Roger Williams University

Occupation:

Architect, Antinozzi Associates

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Board of Finance, Chairman

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

Maintaining our fiscal stability knowing our economy may falter/fluctuate again in the near future. The Board of Finance must continue to look at Guilford’s long-term financial health 5, 10, and 15 years down the road and, though we may be looking at a strong financial footing now, how prudent we are in handling our finances when challenges arise due to local/State budget concerns (or the national economy) will be critical in maintaining the value we expect in Guilford.

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

In my opinion, there is very little difference ... our viewpoints in how we retain the value of Guilford through tax dollars allow all of us to successfully collaborate and come to a consensus on revenue and expenditure decisions.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Over the past 4 years, our Town’s financial position has continued to improve – largely because of the trust our community has placed in its elected leaders. With 3 of 4 budgets passing the first time despite our new high school facility bonding increases peaking, we have seen operational increases just below the 4-year inflation rate of 1.7%, have maintained our high AAA-rating, are funding our pension liabilities at actuarial levels, and have healthy fund balances in both our medical benefits account, as well as our unassigned fund balance (or “rainy day” fund). For the first time during my time on the BOF, due to conservative fiscal management, we have the opportunity to consider fund balance reserves carefully and strategically to invest in one-time or irregular expenditures such as capital and technology improvements, post-employment benefits, revaluation, and long-term planning studies that are challenging at best to incorporate into annual operating budgets.

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

Beside my 12 years on the Board of Finance, I have served the town in numerous capacities since 1999 - whether on the Standing Building Committee reviewing facility improvement expenses, the Historic District Commission and Town Center South Committee maintaining the character of our downtown and shoreline areas, or assisting in the passing of our new high school facility referendum in 2011 by a 3:1 vote and serving as a liaison to the GHS Building Committee based on my professional career. Working seamlessly with all of our elected boards and officials has been a strength that I look forward to continuing for another 4 years on the Board of Finance.

The best advice ever shared with me was …

Perception is not always reality ... seek the truth from those more knowledgeable and engaged than you as you develop your opinions and decisions. Your way is not the only way.

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

As an Architect professionally, I must be aware of many competing issues, challenges, and solutions, but not micro-manage every aspect. I believe my role as Chairman of the Board of Finance, like an Architect, is the role of 'maestro'. Every year, 30+ town committees/boards, including the Board of Education, craft the Town budget. Each individual involved has special expertise - the maestro’s role is to ensure the orchestra is in sync. To serve in a community such as Guilford where community leaders are open-minded, transparent, tirelessly listen to residents and business owners regarding their concerns and ideas, and advocate collectively for what is best for our Town makes this role of maestro both special and rewarding. I take great pride in bringing financial value, integrity, and a collaborative spirit to the Board of Finance.

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