Newtown Election: Lisa Kessler, Legislative Council District 1

NEWTOWN, CT —Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Newtown will be on the ballot.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 2, Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on various topics of importance in town.

Patch will post these candidate profiles over the next couple of weeks, so check back often to see the latest.

Republican Lisa Kessler, 50, is running for Legislative Council District 1 in Newtown.

Occupation:

Family:I have been a Newtown resident for about 15 years. I have two kids both of whom attend Newtown schools.

Experience: None

Family in government: No, I hope to be the first.

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

Implementing a smart plan that allows Newtown to grow and thrive responsibly while retaining it's charm and historical qualities. This is achieved through:

1. Good Schools - Board of Ed and the town working in collaboration on pressing issues including declining enrollment, test scores and a greater focus on true academics. Ensuring the best outcome for our children and our future.

2. Infrastructure - Addressing aging infrastructure by implementing a responsible plan, without raising taxes, to deal with crumbling roads and antiquated systems.

3. Keeping Newtown affordable. Our seniors, who are a vital part of our community, should be able to remain in town and not have to relocate due to the burden of excessive taxes.

4. Promoting Quality Development and Jobs . With a proper development plan, Fairfield Hills can continue to grow and be a thriving community gathering place for all ages.

The Legislative Council's job is to oversee the BOE and Town. Together with my colleagues, Angela Curi and William DeRosa, and we will work together to implement and promote fiscally sound policies that will serve to enhance Newtown while retaining its rural character.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I am a single working mother with high school aged children currently enrolled in Newtown. I come with no hidden political agendas. Regardless of my political affiliation and my only concern will be promoting responsible government for the betterment of Newtown.
This position is not a stepping stone to higher aspirations as we see with so many others trying to obtain political positions of power. I am here to serve my community and listen to the residents as a voice of reason and responsibility.

Accomplishments:

Between the many years I've spent working in the logistics field for a local company and being a regular volunteer at school and I've been exposed to handling and balancing a variety of tasks and inter-moving parts providing me with the experience needed to confidently and effectively handle the position on Legislative Council.

Other issues:

We need to get back to basics and stop over-complicating issues. Complex government regulations create difficulties for residents and businesses alike. Our Fire and Police Departments also need our support and safe neighborhoods benefit everyone in our community.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I am proud to call Newtown my home and it's important for me to give back. I'm running for Legislative Council because I have concerns moving forward and would like to see positive changes made that benefit our entire community, including our children and seniors.

Please vote Lisa Kessler, and Angela Curi & William DeRosa for Legislative Council D1 on November 2nd to ensure Newtown remains a community we all cherish.