Newtown Election: PHILIP CARROLL For Newtown Legislative Council

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 PHILIP CARROLL, 67, is running for Newtown Legislative Council.

Occupation: Department Of Motor Vehicles License Agent Supervisor

Family: My wife Robin and I grew up in Newtown. Daughter Rachel and her husband James live in Texas with my four grand-children, Carlie age 21, Ryleigh age 18, Jesse age 16,and Benjamin age 15 as well as Braxton, our great grandson, age 20 months. My son Benjamin passed away. We have a two year old shelter cat named Magoo. We sometimes feel he thinks he is a panther.

Experience: I have been on the Legislative Council from 2011 to present

Family in government: No

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

One of the most pressing issues facing our town is affordability. I have been aware of the cost of home ownership and taxes in Newtown and will continue to advocate to keep any tax increase to a minimum. We need to watch our spending so as to not force out older residents as well as making Newtown affordable for younger families. We need to be mindful of our needs vs wants.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I have seen the why and why-not regarding the budgets from year to year and will continue to push for responsible budgeting for all of Newtown's residents. Experience would be the difference between other candidates and myself.

Accomplishments:

I have had two businesses with over 30 years of self employment. floor covering installer and Owner/Operator of a Newtown school bus. Besides the maintenance, I had to keep track of cost, expenses, federal & state laws and requirements, and proper record keeping as well as customer service.

Other issues:

I want issues to be fair for all Newtowners not just a group with their own agenda. There will always be pro and cons to issues but they need to be measured to what is best for all residents.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

Newtown is my hometown. I have 12 siblings most all have lived in Newtown. I have raised my children in Newtown and they have enjoyed a good education here. My daughter is a teacher and uses her Newtown experiences in her teaching.