Patch Candidate Profile: Julie Rosenblatt, Naugatuck Burgess

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

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

Democrat Julie Rosenblatt, 70, is a Naugatuck resident running for burgess.

Education.

Bachelor's degree in education and social work.

What is your occupation?

Forty years experience in the educational field as a teacher, paraprofessional and tutor. Presently working at Naugatuck Adult Education for the last 23 years. Forty years experience as a small business owner of Rosenblatt's Department Store.

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

Husband passed away 2 and 1/2 years ago. We have a daughter who is a high school biology teacher who lives with her husband and two granddaughters, ages 12 and 9. I am the youngest of my family having three older brothers.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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

No.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this office because I would like to continue to be involved in my community and contribute to the decision making. It is important that we have a strong burgess committee that is committed to supporting and assisting the mayor. I am thrilled to see more development being planned that will help with taxes and the future of our town.

Education is always important to me so assisting in that area will be of interest to me. Being in education and retail I am hoping to be an asset to the board and honored to be nominated.

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

Taxes.

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

I am dedicated to making Naugatuck the best community and I truly believe all the candidates have that objective in mind. I am willing to learn and listen to others especially seasoned burgesses who I admire and trust.

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

I think most important is developing Naugatuck into a community that will attract those to move here - which means an affordable tax base. This will depend on developments that are in progress making them major tax contributors thus lowering the homeowner's taxes.

Education is a priority and I believe our system is doing a great job at providing a fair education to all. I would also like to continue to see more recreation outlets for the children such as improved parks.

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

As a retail owner, I have a strong business sense and can aide in future endeavors. As an educator for over 40 years, I have experience in what the community is looking for.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Stay honest and true to yourself.

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

I will work hard for a community I love and have called my home for 44 years.