Patch Candidate Profile: Jeffrey Capeci​, Newtown First Selectman

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.

Engineer Jeffrey Capeci, 58, is running for election as first selectman on the Republican ticket.

Education.

BSEE Computer Science MSEE CS

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

Wife, Tanya 27 years. Son Bradley, Daughter Greta. Both professionals, Newtown Public Schools/University graduates.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes

Why are you seeking this office?

I've been in Newtown a long time, I've been involved in volunteer public service for almost twenty years. I have experience leading the Legislative Council for ten years, I've served on the Board of Selectmen and I've served other appointed boards such as Charter Revision. I love the community I live in and I want to lead for the next chapter in its history.

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

Livability. I will present sustainable budgets that invest in critical infrastructure including roads and buildings so our town can continue to grow but at a sustainable pace that broadens our tax base and allows our seniors to stay and our young to come back. I want Newtown to be the envy of northern Fairfield county.

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

Experience, dedication, fiscal responsibility.

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

Communication and collaboration between Town departments, the board of education and neighboring towns. The Town needs to collaborate between departments and with neighboring communities to learn from one another and enable cost savings.

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

I am a recognized leader at work and in my community. I have chaired the LC and multiple commissions throughout my tenure in Newtown, I lead successful teams at work. I collaborate well with many town directors and our current First Selectman.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Work hard, find compromise but never at the expense of your core principals.

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

I appreciate your consideration of my candidacy for First Selectman and please vote on November 7th.