Patch Candidate Profile: Deborah Heim​, Monroe Tax Collector

MONROE, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Monroe and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Monroe Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Deborah Heim, 65, is running for re-election as tax collector in Monroe, on the Republican ticket.

Education.

Masuk High School, Western Connecticut State University, Certified Connecticut Municipal Collector, Certified Connecticut Municipal Officer

What is your occupation?

32 years Tax Collection experience

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

Husband Ken Heim. 4 daughters, 6 grandchildren

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

My husband is a retired Monroe Police Officer. Two of my daughters teach in Municipalities one in Southington and the other in Manchester.

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

Yes. Elected Tax Collector in Monroe and Appointed in Stratford. I also served as a Planning and Zoning Alternate, Vice Chair on Town Council and Town Treasurer.

Why are you seeking this office?

I have been a resident of Monroe my entire life. I feel I can give back to the community by serving this beautiful town.

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

Understanding the tax process and where their tax dollars are going. Answer their questions.

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

Experience and knowledge to the process and keeping to date with all the state changes.

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

Continue to keep up to date with the State Legislation changes and continue to maintain a high collection rate.

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

Maintaining a high collection rate. Taking advantage of new technology as it comes available. Started park stickers in the tax bills, a convenience to the taxpayer. During Covid we remained open to serve the taxpayers. We implemented a drop off system inside the police department for 24 hour drop offs. Our online system is available 24/7 for payments and inquiries.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be prepared. We also have to be prepared for the unexpected. As in Covid we need to implement new ways to serve our public. With the technology in place we can serve the public without disruption.

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

With my years of training and experience with Tax Collecting, I feel I am the best candidate for the office as tax collector, benefitting the town and especially the taxpayer.