Tom Long Running 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 several days, so check back often to see the latest.

Republican Tom Long, 52, is running for Legislative Council in Newtown.

Occupation: S.v.p. Communications, The Workplace, Southwestern Connecticut’s Workforce Development Board

Family: Married to Tina for 22 years. Two dogs, Darby (14 years) and Annie (1.5 years)

Experience: Currently serve on the Board of Trustees for the CH Booth Library. Previously on Economic Development Commission, Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers, and and Charter Revision Commission.

Family in government: No

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

A pressing issue facing Newtown is leveraging our supply of commercial property and supporting economic growth while maintaining open space and the rural character that makes the community a special place to live. I remain committed to thoughtful, collaborative debate and discussion on issues that enable an open exchange of ideas. Finding the right path forward requires an engaged community, willing to consider ideas based upon their merit.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

Beyond my years of volunteerism in Newtown, I bring years of professional experience in the government, private and non-profit sectors. My work has helped people navigate state and federal government bureaucracies, and create budgets and I have been held responsible for profit/loss statements. My current work includes building collaborative networks with government agencies and non-profits to help mature workers and the long-term unemployed secure employment.

Accomplishments:

I created the state-wide Mortgage Crisis Job Training Program which helps borrowers remain in their homes by increasing their earning potential. This included developing the policies, procedures, and systems to provide services and collaborate with various government agencies and non-profit partners. Further, this type of program had never existed before and required operational vision, communication skills, attention to detail, a willingness to listen and collaborate, and at times, patience.

Other issues:

1. Promote the public health and safety of all Newtown residents. 2. Support quality education for every child with a focus on programs and personnel that directly support student success. 3. Identify and implement sustainable solutions to reduce the burden of taxation on the citizens of Newtown.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

The position I seek on the Legislative Council is a volunteer position. I have always found ways to volunteer and give my time in support of organizations and causes that I thought added value. When I volunteer, I get the sense that I am able to better the lives of the people around me and the community I serve. I believe everyone should find a way to get involved, no matter how small, with an issue they care about. My years of experience and sincere interest in serving Newtown motivates me to give me time, ideas, and energy to connect with others to create an even stronger community.