Candidate Profile: Rob Hawley, Newtown Board of Assessment Appeals

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

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

Sikorsky Aircraft security officer Rob Hawley, 59, is running for a seat on the Board of Assessment Appeals, as a Republican. He holds a B.A. in managerial economics from Marietta College. He is married to Tiffany, and the couple have a daughter, Eva.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Tiffany, Newtown Zoning Board of Appeals (Alternate)

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

None

Why are you seeking this office?

Drawing inspiration from my wife Tiffany's recent term of service on the Zoning Board of Appeals, I now see an opportunity to serve our town as well by running for office. Local politics are what truly matter to me. It is at this level, that I feel I can actually make a difference in the community and in the lives of the citizens of Newtown.

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

Managing the impact of the current economic climate.

During these inflationary times, the citizens of Newtown need to manage their financial resources as best they can. If a citizen believes they are being over-taxed, there is a process to rectify that, and I believe that I can help with the determination by reviewing the evidence presented and making a sound decision for both the individual as well as the town.

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

During my 37 years as a Security Officer with Sikorsky Aircraft, I have gained the skills necessary to interact with a variety of people, from custodians to CEOs. Situations have presented themselves that I have had to listen to all sides, consider all options, then make a decision that may have personal, as well as Corporate implications. These skills will be applied to executing my duties as a member of the Board of Assessment Appeals.

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

I want to focus on local concerns and issues. The D.C elites don't care about Newtown and its citizens.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

That "The 'Do' Matters". If you're not happy with the way things are going, don't sit by and remain silent, or complain about your lot in life. Stand up, get involved, be part of the solution rather than part of the problem. Register to vote, and go vote. Elections have consequences. It is your right to participate. A right that was paid for by generations that preceded us.

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

It would be an honor to serve the citizens of this community by applying a lifetime of skills and knowledge to resolve any assessment issues that may arise.