Patch Candidate Profile: Susan Bannay, Monroe Town Council

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.

Susan Bannay, 67, is running for election to the Monroe Town Council as a Democrat.

Education.

BS & MS, SpEd; 6th yr. Admin; Post-Grad, Ed.Research

What is your occupation?

Dean of Students at Fairfield Ludlowe High School Fairfield, CT, retired. My career in education spans 40 years that include teaching and administration. In 2001, I was named Special Educator of the Year.

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

I enjoy spending time with my intergenerational family here in town.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None

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

Justice of the Peace in Monroe 10 + years.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am a 35 year resident of Monroe and love its beauty and small town character. I want to work to keep resident voices a part of development projects, improve town service delivery and to be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars. I also believe in strengthening senior services in town. I hold true to quality education K-12. I have taught pre-school through high school and recognize value of excellent programs.

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

Development. I feel the need for better communication and transparency with regard to development in town. I also believe growth needs to be carefully planned and consideration given to residents, neighborhoods and the environment in addition to businesses.

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

My education and experience as Dean has equipped me with the skills to research, interview stakeholders, make informed decisions and understand the complexity of related documents. As an athlete I understand the significance of working as a team and reaching for goals.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

As a member of the Democratic Party, I want to see a change in the status quo that has repeatedly fallen short in meeting the needs of our community.

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

Road conditions and the impact development has had on residential properties. Respect across the board for all residents of Monroe.

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

Over the years I have volunteered at many Save Our Stepney events and supported countless regional activities, including the Bethel Criterium, Special Olympics, Meals on Wheels, Fairfield County Pride, and I am a musician with the Shamrock Traditional Irish Music group affiliated with the Fairfield Gaelic Club. I feel I have an understanding of the community and the skills and heart needed to get the job done.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Always look for the good in someone.

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

I am a strong participant and supporter of the Arts as a necessary ingredient in a thriving community.