Madison Candidate Profile: Justin Murphy for Board of Finance

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

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

Justin Murphy, 52, is a Republican running for election 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:

UConn. B.S. in Business Administration (1985). Major in Real Estate and Urban Economic Studies

Occupation:

Current: Private Investor, 7 years. Previous: JP Morgan Asset Management, 19 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.

Capital spending on school facilities, and other Town owned buildings. I intend to become well educated on all the options, most of which will be decided upon by town residents through referendum. Therefore, the role of the Board of Finance should first be to help educate the public with the facts to help us all make informed decisions, and then, once a plan is approved, help formulate the best approach to funding the projects with consideration given to minimizing the impact on property taxes. This can be done through prioritization of projects, and also through a focus on appropriate economic development that can help offset the cost of needed capital spending.

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

In reviewing the profiles of the other candidates for the Board of Finance, I think we are all similarly qualified. If I had to pick one differentiating factor, it would be time. I have the time to give the position the focus and attention it needs and deserves. Obviously, the work of all boards and commissions goes well beyond the monthly meetings. As a private investor retired from the professional workforce, I am fortunate to have the flexibility of schedule to meet the ongoing demands of our duties on the Board of Finance. I have no doubt all the candidates will give 100% effort, but I feel my circumstances allow me to treat it like the 'full-time' job that it may be at times. In addition, I have no preset personal or preferential agendas, nor any conflicts of interest that could potentially prevent me from acting in the best interest of our town. I will take the time needed to insure that my contributions are well-informed, objective, and in the best interest of our town, and all its residents.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

No response

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

My 20+ years experience in the financial services industry provide a great foundation for the workings of the Board of Finance. I have worked in large companies and small companies. I have managed large investments and small investments. I have reported to many bosses in my career, and many colleagues have reported to me. In all cases, I believe the principles for success are the same. Treat others as you want to be treated. Working well and getting along with all types of people and personalities is critical to success in business, and in life. I have tried to emulate these principles as best I can and hope to bring that collaborative and cooperative approach to the issues before the Board of Finance, with the goal being the best outcomes for our community.

The best advice ever shared with me was …

The best way to succeed is by helping those around you succeed.

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

I care about our town, and I care about its residents. I plan to live here a long time and I have the town's best interest in mind in everything I do. I did not seek any political office, I was asked to participate and I am honored for the opportunity to serve my hometown community. I have no personal agendas so my positions will be objective and reflect what is in the best interest of our town, even if not my personal preference.

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