Patch Candidate Profile: Mike Bronko, 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.

Republican Mike Bronko, 61, is a Naugatuck resident running for the Board of Mayor and Burgesses.

Education

Associates degree in architectural engineering.

What is your occupation?

Residential Remodel General Contractor.

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

Wife/Eileen. Sons/Adam, Seth, Daniel, Jordan. Grandchildren/Brielle, Evan, Jonathan, Brighton, Callum.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

N/A

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

Mayor of Naugatuck 2007-2009. Burgess 2011-2023.

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?

My experience serving as Mayor and Burgess provides historical background needed to move the Borough forward in the right direction.

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

We have to lower taxes. We have to continue making a business friendly environment in Naugatuck to encourage new as well as current businesses to call Naugatuck their home.

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

I have many years of experience in the public sector. I hold conservative views and always look out for the best interests of our Borough of Naugatuck.

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

I wouldn't say any incumbent has failed. We have always come together to do the best for Naugatuck.

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

I will continue to support economic development to increase our grand list which will lower taxes for our residents. I will also be vigilant to find ways to cut spending and be fiscally responsible

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

I wouldn't say I have any personal accomplishments because the Board of Mayor and Burgesses always work together as a team.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Don't expend political capital on things that won't make a positive outcome.

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

I will always look for ways to cut spending.