Patch Candidate Profile: Bryan Atherton, Newtown Legislative Council

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.

Real estate broker Bryan Atherton, 54, is running for election to the Newtown Legislative Council, representing District 2, as a Republican.

Education.

B.S. Finance

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

Wife Jennifer, Son Ben (13) and Daughter Brinley (11)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

No

Why are you seeking this office?

I would like to give back to the community I grew up in.

I graduated Newtown High School in 1987. I have seen the quality of our education decrease and our expenses keep rising.

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

The rise in the cost of living is the biggest issue for all.

I intend to utilize my Finance background to assist in making sound decisions to create an environment for growth and optimizing our education excellence without increasing costs.

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

I have been in the Commercial Real Estate Industry for over 20 years which has given me the experience to excel at all levels of this position. From Accounting to Zoning I have experienced it all. I don't think anyone else could be better prepared.

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

Bonding and the cost of financing have been issues for some time. We need to make sure our long term bonding plans are aligned with the challenges we will face.

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

I have been a leader all of my life and have served in roles of importance in various International Organizations including Committee Chairs, Treasurer, Presidential Liason, Executive Committee of the Certified Commercial Investor Member (CCIM), National Association of Realtors (NAR).

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The most valuable thing in life is your time

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

I love Newtown and enjoy spending time with family as much as I can.