Patch Candidate Profile: John Fletcher​​, Newtown Board Of Finance

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.

John Fletcher, 60, is running for election to the Newtown Board of Finance as a Democrat.

Education.

MBA, Columbia Business School; BA, Dartmouth College

What is your occupation?

34 years in Finance and operations

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

Wife Jordana Bloom; daughter Jamison 27, sons Jackson 24, Hudson 22, and Hayden 20; rescue dogs Nutmeg and Fergus

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

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

Borough of Newtown Zoning Board of Appeals, 2020-current

Why are you seeking this office?

I've lived with my family in Newtown for over 20 years, and I want to give something back to this wonderful community that has been so meaningful for us. I feel that my Finance work experience is a good fit for this role, and will bring valuable perspective to the Board.

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

how to appropriately invest in Newtown, including our schools, in a way that still keeps our budget and taxes affordable. I would apply my analytical perspective to help prioritize important spending, and reduce lower value items. In addition, it's important to reach out to knowledgeable community members to get as much input as possible to inform my decisions.

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

I have over 30 years of financial experience in a large company, working with multi-million dollar budgets across multiple complex organizations. I can apply that knowledge, and my teamwork experience working with business leaders, to bring valuable analysis to the town's issues. Those are the advantages to my candidacy.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

There are not many incumbents running for the Board of Finance, but I would not say prior Board members have failed the community. I believe that the Board has been generally bipartisan, and has thoughtfully addressed its challenges. I would aim to bring additional financial expertise to the Board, and to continue to work with other town officials to make decisions in the best interest of Newtown.

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

In addition to careful education investment, we need to navigate the challenge of encouraging smart town development to broaden our tax base, while maintaining the historical character of the town. And generally, all our government officials need to prioritize local Newtown issues, and refrain from promoting outside interests for purely political purposes.

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

I am a new candidate for the Board of Finance, but my long financial management experience, and my ability to work with people of many backgrounds in a broad organization, will be helpful for the Board. In addition, I've supported the town through the borough Zoning Board of Appeals, and I look forward to expanding my community contributions.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My father was in the military and said he learned that there are some people you can count on, and some you can't - so be one to count on. And, have fun.

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

I believe my background would make a good addition to this important Board, and I'd appreciate the support of our voters on November 7.